10 Best Popcorn Makers 2026 in the United States

The Dash Fresh Pop Popcorn Maker is a compact and easy-to-use air popper that can make up to 16 cups of popcorn without any oil, which makes it a healthier choice for movie nights or casual snacking. Its hot air method pops kernels quickly and cleanly, avoiding greasy messes common with oil-based machines. The included measuring cup doubles as a butter-warming tray, adding convenience for those who like to add flavor without extra dishes.

With non-slip feet and a small footprint (about 8.4" long by 4.8" wide and 13.4" high), it fits comfortably on most countertops and stores away with ease. The plastic body is lightweight at just over 2 pounds, making it simple to move around or pack away. Users have praised its reliable popping performance, though some have noted that cleaning can be a bit tricky since the plastic housing is not dishwasher safe and requires careful wiping.

While it doesn’t have advanced settings or digital features, its straightforward manual operation is great for anyone wanting a no-fuss popcorn maker. If you want a quick, oil-free way to enjoy fresh popcorn without a bulky machine, this Dash model offers solid performance and useful extras like the recipe guide. However, if you prefer buttery popcorn straight from the machine or larger batch sizes, you might want to consider other options.

The Presto 04821 Orville Redenbacher's Hot Air Popper is a solid choice for anyone looking to make popcorn quickly and healthily. It uses hot air to pop up to 18 cups in less than 2.5 minutes, which is fast and efficient with very few unpopped kernels. Because it pops without oil, it offers a low-calorie snack option, which can be great if you want to avoid extra fats. Cleaning is straightforward since you only need to wipe the base and cover, and there’s no greasy mess from oil. The butter melter that doubles as a measuring cup is a handy addition for adding flavor.

The popcorn maker is a compact size at 14 inches tall and includes a built-in cord wrap, making storage easier in most kitchens. One thing to note is that it’s made mostly of plastic, so it may not feel as sturdy as metal models. Also, since it uses hot air, it won’t produce the same rich flavor that oil-popped popcorn has, which could be a downside if you prefer that taste.

This model is electric and meets North American standards, so it’s suitable for typical home use. Its moderate size and simple operation make it especially good for families or individuals who want quick, healthy popcorn without fuss.

The DASH SmartStore Stirring Popcorn Maker is a compact and stylish electric popcorn machine designed for home use, especially suitable for families or casual movie nights. It can pop up to 12 cups of popcorn per batch, which is enough for a small group. This 3-quart capacity is good if you want to make fresh popcorn quickly without needing multiple rounds. The stirring feature helps ensure even popping and reduces unpopped kernels, which many users find helpful. Popping is simple and fast — just add kernels and oil, then press a button to start. The clear bowl lets you watch the process, which adds a bit of fun.

Cleaning is relatively easy since the parts are simple, but the plastic material might not be the most durable over long-term use. One clever design touch is the vented cover that doubles as a butter melting tray, making it convenient to add melted butter right as the popcorn pops. The base nests inside the lid for compact storage, so it won't take up much counter or cabinet space. While it doesn't have advanced settings or digital controls, the manual operation keeps it straightforward for everyday use.

It is lightweight and portable, which is great if you want to bring it to different rooms or even on trips. This popcorn maker is well suited for those who want a quick, easy, and enjoyable way to make classic hot oil popcorn at home without fuss, though it may be less suited for larger crowds or those seeking multiple popcorn style options.