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#1 Presto Poplite Hot Air Popper
Presto Poplite is a simple and oil-free popcorn maker that’s easy to use. The upright appliance can pop 18 cups of popcorn in less than 3 minutes. It also includes a butter melting tray that doubles up as a measuring cup. This machine produced the crispiest popcorn of all the popcorn machines we tested.
We followed the instructions for each batch and didn’t fill the measuring cup with too many kernels. As the machine heated up, some unpopped kernels escaped from the chute onto the countertop. This was not a problem as the chute directed the popped kernels straight into our bowl after the vigorously popping began. If you are popping multiple batches of corn at once, the machine will need some cooling time.
We spent a lot of time testing each popcorn maker and were pleased to find that the Poplite was easy to use. Although the appliance could have an on/off switch to make it easier to use, it was easy to plug it in to start. The oil-free model kept the interior and exterior of the appliance clean. After wiping it down, we washed it in warm soapy water. One tester loved that the machine is larger than most collapsible microwave models but it can still be stored in a small cabinet. You can wrap the cord around to store the machine for next time.
#2 Cuisinart Hot Air Popcorn Maker EasyPop CPM-100
The electric countertop model is easy to set up. In our tests, this popper produced a bowl of perfectly popped corn (up to 15 cups, to be exact) in less than 3 minutes—and there wasn’t a single burnt piece in sight.
Similar to the Presto Poplite popcorn, the popcorn melts away from the heat source when it pops. This is why we were able to find consistency in our Lab testing, regardless of the batch size. Although that is wishful thinking, we wish the maker had a timer that would alert us when to turn it off. The problem was not apparent when we were actually using it. This popcorn maker includes a butter warming tray which doubles up as a measuring spoon for the kernels. It was a great bonus to have a measuring cup. The popper can make batches quickly, but the butter didn’t melt as fast, according to our at-home product reviewer. Once a batch has been completed, users should turn off the EasyPop and allow the butter to melt before serving.
Although the EasyPop is more expensive that the Poplite, it is easier to clean because each removable part is dishwasher-safe. You can also turn the appliance on and off, instead of unplugging. Poplite’s popcorn won the taste test with a better overall flavor. Both popcorn makers received equal ratings for crispiness.
EasyPop’s stay cool housing is kid-friendly. All materials that come in direct contact with food and drink are BPA-free.1.
#3 Pop and Serve Popcorn Machine
If you want a fast and easy way to make homemade popcorn, but don’t have kitchen space for yet another gadget, this popcorn maker is for you. It has the following features A collapsible silicone container that is ideal for storage It is dishwasher-safe. The steam vents at the lid keep moisture from building up and ensure that popcorn is crisp. We love that you can get oil-free and fresh popcorn whenever you’d like for under ten dollars.
Keep in mind that microwave power settings vary and popcorn can take up to three minutes to pop. No matter what, don’t use the popcorn pre-set function as it is meant for pre-packaged microwave popcorn bags.
#4 Stir Crazy Popcorn Machine
The West Bend Stir Crazy is named appropriately — a The motorized rod at the base turns to prevent the kernels burning and the clear dome-shaped plastic cover lets you watch the exciting popping action. It can be controlled by an easy on/off switch. With just kernels and a little bit of oil, you can make six quarts worth of popcorn. The top-rack dishwasher-safe cover and removable stirring rod are both available for hand-washing. It’s easy to store: Just nest the base in the cover to make it even more compact.
Some reviewers complained that the popcorn doesn’t turn out crispy. As soon as the popcorn has finished popping, allow the steam to escape. Turn the popper upside-down by grasping the heat-resistant handles. Lift the base off (the bowl is now the lid). Allow the steam to escape.
#5 Whirley Popcorn Popper
Next up is something for those of you who prefer a more hands-on experience when you’re making popcorn.
Although this hand-crank unit is manually operated, don’t let that fool you. This simple but effective popcorn machine by a well-respected brand will still produce delicious popcorn.
You use this model over the stovetop, so you’ll fill your kitchen with the smell of popcorn baking, almost as good as the unmissable taste.
The baking system prevents popcorn from getting burned.
If you’re still in any doubt about investing in this popcorn maker, the 25-year limited warranty should show you how much confidence this manufacturer places in their product. You can be sure that no manufacturer will lose their guarantee.
#6 Great Northern Popcorn Company
If you have kids at home and you want to give them a retro taste of your childhood, check out this tabletop popper that’s styled like something from the 1950s.
This machine can make decent popcorn batches in a 1-gallon container. You can then get back to your movie instead of worrying about it.
The pull-out tray makes it easy for everyone to grab their popcorn.
This popcorn maker has an integrated kettle and a stirring system that prevents the popcorn from burning. This is a common problem with low-quality popcorn makers.
You get a pair of popping kettle hangers thrown in, and you’ll also get a measuring spoon, a cup, and a removable popcorn tray.
A warming light is available to preserve your popcorn’s best quality. This is a small, but very valuable, extra.
This old-school popcorn machine is a crowning glory. It’s also very affordable, so what are your options?
#7 DASH Hot Air Popcorn Popper
DASH offers affordable kitchenware in muted pastels. How does this popcorn popper stand up and fall?
With a 16-cup capacity, you’ll have more than enough popcorn up your sleeve for a larger family.
This electric appliance uses hot air to bake your popcorn, so you won’t get any of the extra calories of cooking oil.
Once your popcorn is ready, you can use the measuring cup on top of the machine to melt butter.
Despite its spacious capacity, it is compact and space-saving, making it a good choice for those with limited kitchen space.
#8 Hamilton Beach Electric Hot Oil Popcorn Maker
Our popcorn maker reviews are completed by a Hamilton Beach option, which is known for making high-quality kitchenware at a reasonable price.
This machine can make as many as 24 cups popcorn per batch. It is ideal for making popcorn with friends, or for movie night.
The non-stick plate ensures your popcorn doesn’t end up smeared all over the inside of the machine.
The motorized stirring arm gives you great popping experience.
The butter can be baked in. This allows you to season your popcorn according to your taste.
This unit makes use of hot oil to deliver popcorn as good as you’ll taste from a concession stand, but you won’t need to leave home to get it.
Aside from the substantial size and weight of this popcorn maker, there’s not much else to knock.