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10 Best Popcorn Machines 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

DASH Hot Air Popcorn Popper Maker with Measuring Cup to Portion Popping Corn Kernels + Melt Butter, 16 Cups - Aqua

The DASH Hot Air Popcorn Popper Maker is designed for easy and quick popcorn making with a one-touch start button. Its capacity allows for 16 cups of popcorn, making it suitable for parties, gatherings, or small family movie nights. The use of hot air instead of oil makes it a healthier option for popcorn lovers.

The included measuring cup also functions as a butter melting tray, adding convenience for those who enjoy buttery popcorn. This machine stands out for its compact size, making it ideal for smaller spaces like apartments, dorms, or RVs. Its sleek design and trendy aqua color can complement any kitchen décor.

However, some users might find the plastic material less durable and may need to handle it with care. Additionally, while the machine is easy to use, cleaning may require some effort due to its design.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Ease of Cleaning
Super easy to clean.
Additional Features
It's a pretty great machine but tends to shoot unpopped kernels, so we keep the machine a bit tilted until most of the corn is popped.
#2

Great Northern Popcorn Matinee Popcorn Machines, Red

The Great Northern Popcorn Matinee Popcorn Machine is a solid choice for anyone who enjoys making popcorn at home, whether for a large gathering or a cozy movie night. With an 8-ounce capacity, it can produce up to 3 gallons (48 cups) of popcorn per batch, making it suitable for both small and large groups. The built-in kettle stirrer ensures even cooking, and the heated deck keeps the popcorn warm and fresh. It also features a reject tray to collect un-popped kernels, which is a handy addition.

Cleaning is straightforward, requiring just a wipe-down with a damp cloth thanks to the tempered glass and stainless-steel construction. However, its size and 26.7-pound weight make it less portable, and it may take up considerable counter space (14.4”L x 13.6”W x 22.8”H). The machine is user-friendly with a 3-switch design to control the kettle heater, stirrer, and warming light independently. It is made from quality materials, promising durability.

The product includes useful extras like measuring cups, a scoop, 50 popcorn bags, and 3 popcorn buckets, which adds to its value. On the downside, its antique style might not appeal to everyone, and being an electric machine, it needs a power outlet, which could limit where you can use it. This machine is a great option for those who prioritize capacity, ease of use, and are looking for a durable popcorn maker with a vintage aesthetic.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Capacity
The large capacity stainless-steel drum ensures even popping and fresh, buttery popcorn.
Heating Method
The kettle may have a brief break-in period but settles to the perfect temperature.
Ease of Cleaning
Cleaning up is straightforward with a water bottle and paper towels.
Additional Features
Assembly was very easy and took only about 10 minutes.
#3

Presto Poplite Hot Air Popcorn Popper, 18 Cups, Yellow

The Presto Poplite Hot Air Popcorn Popper is ideal for those seeking a healthy snack option. With its ability to pop up to 18 cups of popcorn using hot air instead of oil, it delivers a low-fat, heart-healthy treat. One of its standout features is efficiency – it can pop a large batch in about 2 1/2 minutes with minimal unpopped kernels, making it quicker than many other poppers on the market.

The added functionality of the measuring cap, which doubles as a butter-melting tray, allows users to easily add a buttery topping for a movie theater experience at home. This machine’s simple design ensures easy cleanup, as the base and chute just need a wipe down. Its compact size and built-in cord wrap make it convenient for storage and a good fit for any kitchen, enhancing its portability.

However, the plastic material may not appeal to everyone, and some might find it less durable compared to metal alternatives. Additionally, it lacks advanced features like a timer or automatic shut-off, which would be beneficial. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Presto Poplite is a robust choice for popcorn enthusiasts.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Capacity
The Presto Poplite works well, popping a large bowl of popcorn with minimal unpopped kernels.
Heating Method
Perfect for movie nights, it pops light and fluffy popcorn without preservatives or additives.
Ease of Cleaning
Easy to use and clean, the machine can quickly produce a healthy snack with minimal waste.
Size and Portability
Compact and efficient, it’s a great choice for anyone looking for a quick and healthy snack option.
Additional Features
The built-in butter melter is a nice touch, but it works best with room temperature butter.

Buying Guide for the Best Popcorn Machines

Choosing the right popcorn machine can greatly enhance your movie nights, parties, or even your small business. The key to finding the best popcorn machine for you is to understand the different specifications and how they align with your needs. Here are some important factors to consider when selecting a popcorn machine.
CapacityCapacity refers to the amount of popcorn the machine can produce in one batch. This is important because it determines how much popcorn you can make at once, which is crucial for serving a large group of people. Small capacity machines (1-2 ounces) are ideal for home use or small gatherings. Medium capacity machines (4-8 ounces) are suitable for larger families or small events. Large capacity machines (12 ounces and above) are best for commercial use or very large gatherings. Consider how many people you typically serve to choose the right capacity.
Heating MethodThe heating method of a popcorn machine can affect the taste and texture of the popcorn. There are two main types: hot air and oil. Hot air machines use air to pop the kernels, resulting in a healthier, low-fat snack. These are great for health-conscious individuals. Oil-based machines use oil to pop the kernels, which can give the popcorn a richer flavor and a more traditional movie theater taste. Choose the heating method based on your taste preference and dietary considerations.
Ease of CleaningCleaning your popcorn machine is an important aspect to consider, especially if you plan to use it frequently. Machines with removable parts or non-stick surfaces are generally easier to clean. Some machines also have dishwasher-safe components. If you want to minimize the time and effort spent on cleaning, look for these features. For commercial use, ease of cleaning is even more critical to maintain hygiene standards.
Size and PortabilityThe size and portability of a popcorn machine can affect where and how you use it. Smaller, more compact machines are easier to store and move around, making them ideal for home use or small spaces. Larger machines may offer higher capacity but can be bulky and harder to move. If you need to transport the machine frequently, look for one with wheels or a lightweight design. Consider the space you have available and how often you need to move the machine.
Additional FeaturesSome popcorn machines come with additional features that can enhance your popcorn-making experience. These can include built-in warming decks to keep popcorn fresh, kernel separators to reduce unpopped kernels, and measuring tools for oil and kernels. While these features are not essential, they can add convenience and improve the quality of your popcorn. Think about which features would be most useful for you and look for machines that offer them.

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