10 Best Popcorn Poppers 2025 in the United States

The DASH Hot Air Popcorn Popper is an electric hot air machine designed for quick and healthy popcorn making. Its standout feature is the use of hot air instead of oil, which means you get fresh popcorn without added fat or preservatives, making it a great choice if you want a healthier snack. With a capacity to pop up to 16 cups, it's suitable for parties, family movie nights, or even small gatherings, offering a decent volume without being bulky. The unit is compact and lightweight, ideal for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or even travel in an RV. One convenient feature is the measuring cup that doubles as a butter melter, so you can add melted butter smoothly while the popcorn is popping – a nice touch for those who enjoy traditional buttery popcorn. Cooking time is fast, usually just a few minutes, and the operation is simple enough for anyone to use, including kids.

In terms of cleaning, since it uses hot air and no oil, there’s less mess compared to oil poppers, but the plastic build may require some care to avoid stains or warping over time. The design is sleek and modern, fitting well in most kitchen spaces. On the downside, because it’s a manual hot air popper, it might not produce the same rich flavor or texture as oil poppers for some users, and the plastic materials may feel less durable compared to metal alternatives. Also, while it pops a good amount, it’s not the best fit if you need to make popcorn in very large quantities quickly. This popper is a smart pick for those who prioritize health, ease of use, and compact size over heavy-duty performance or oil-popped flavor.

The Ecolution Patented Micro-Pop is a microwave popcorn popper made from temperature-safe borosilicate glass, which stands out for its durability and ability to withstand heat without absorbing odors or chemicals. With a 3-quart capacity, it can easily prepare enough popcorn for a small group, making it great for movie nights or snacks. One of its highlights is the 3-in-1 lid that not only measures kernels but also melts butter, helping you make gourmet-style popcorn without extra tools.

Cooking time is quick—usually around 3 minutes or less—using hot air circulation to pop kernels evenly without burning and without the need for oil or butter, which is healthier and simpler. Cleaning is hassle-free since the glass bowl and lid are dishwasher safe. The wide mouth and ergonomic handle add to its ease of use. However, it requires a microwave with a turntable and should not be used with microwaves' popcorn preset buttons, which may be a slight inconvenience for some. Also, since it's glass, it needs careful handling to avoid breakage, unlike plastic versions.

This popper is well suited for those who want a reusable, chemical-free way to make healthier popcorn at home with good portion control and easy cleanup.

The Matinee Popcorn Machine by Great Northern Popcorn is a solid choice if you're looking for a classic-style popcorn popper that can handle small to medium-sized gatherings. It has an 8-ounce kettle capacity, which lets you pop about 3 gallons of popcorn per batch—enough for a family movie night or a small party. One of its strengths is the built-in kettle stirrer that helps pop kernels evenly and the warming light that keeps popcorn fresh and warm after popping. The reject kernel tray is handy, as it collects un-popped kernels, so you won’t get many hard bits mixed in.

The machine’s compact countertop design with tempered glass and stainless steel looks charming and is sturdy enough for regular use. Cleaning is fairly simple since you just need to wipe the inside with a damp cloth, though the parts are not dishwasher safe, which may require a bit more care. The popping process is quick, usually taking just a few minutes thanks to the powerful 850-watt kettle. It also comes with useful accessories like measuring cups, popcorn bags, and buckets, which adds good value.

Weighing over 30 pounds, the machine is best suited for a permanent spot rather than moving around frequently. While it’s easy to operate with three separate switches controlling the kettle, stirrer, and warmer, beginners might need a moment to get comfortable with the controls. This dependable and attractive popcorn popper offers good capacity and convenience, making it ideal for home movie nights or casual entertaining, although it requires some care in cleaning and handling due to its weight and design.