10 Best Microwaves For Popcorn 2026 in the United States

The BLACK+DECKER EM031MB11 microwave is a solid choice if you want a reliable kitchen helper that works well for popping popcorn and everyday cooking. With 1000 watts of power, it heats food quickly and evenly, which is great for getting your popcorn just right without burning it. Its 1.1 cubic feet capacity is roomy enough to fit a standard popcorn bag or larger dishes, making it versatile beyond popcorn. The built-in popcorn preset button takes the guesswork out of timing, so you can enjoy your snack with ease. The microwave also features a removable 12.4-inch glass turntable, which helps rotate your food for even cooking and is simple to clean.

The push-button door and child safety lock add convenient and safe operation, especially for households with kids. The control panel is easy to read thanks to a large LED display, and the various presets expand its use to other foods like vegetables and pizza. The microwave has a footprint of about 20 by 16.5 inches, so it requires a decent amount of counter space. While the exterior combines black and stainless steel for a modern look, fingerprints and smudges might show up easily, requiring regular wiping.

This microwave is suitable for those who want a dependable, easy-to-use appliance with a handy popcorn feature, but be ready to accommodate its size on your countertop.

The Farberware 1.1 Cu. Ft. microwave is a solid choice if you're looking for a reliable microwave to pop popcorn and handle other quick meals. Its 1000-watt power is strong enough to pop popcorn efficiently and heat food evenly, and the 1.1 cubic feet capacity is roomy enough for most standard microwave popcorn bags without taking up too much counter space. It includes a dedicated popcorn preset, which makes popping convenient with just one touch. The built-in turntable ensures even cooking by rotating your food, which is important for popcorn to avoid burning. Cleaning is made easier thanks to its smooth stainless steel interior, which wipes down quickly after use. Also, the child safety lock adds peace of mind if you have young kids around.

On the downside, while the size is great for small kitchens or offices, it may feel a bit tight if you often cook larger dishes. Some users might wish for more advanced popcorn-specific features or sensors that adjust cooking time automatically to prevent burning. Its simple controls, multiple power levels, and quick start options make it user-friendly.

If your main goal is a straightforward microwave that handles popcorn well and fits compact spaces, this model fits the bill without unnecessary complexity.

The Farberware Countertop Microwave offers 1000 watts of power, which is strong enough to pop popcorn quickly and efficiently, making it a good choice for popcorn lovers. Its 1.3 cubic feet capacity is roomy enough to fit most popcorn bags while still being compact enough for small spaces like apartments or dorm rooms. The microwave includes a dedicated popcorn preset, which simplifies popping by automatically setting the right time and power, helping avoid burnt or unpopped kernels. A turntable is included, which helps heat your popcorn evenly.

The stainless steel interior and exterior make it easier to clean, especially after any popcorn spills or butter splatters, and the easy-to-clean surfaces add convenience. Additionally, features like LED lighting let you watch your popcorn as it cooks, and a child lock provides safety if you have kids around. On the downside, while 1000 watts is quite powerful, it’s not the highest wattage available, so popping times might be a bit longer compared to higher-watt models.

The unit weighs about 33.7 pounds, which is on the heavier side for a countertop microwave, so it’s best suited for a spot where it can stay put. Some users might find the size a bit large if counter space is very limited. This microwave balances good power, user-friendly popcorn settings, and easy cleaning, making it a solid choice for popcorn fans who need a reliable, compact microwave for everyday use.