10 Best Popcorn Machines 2025 in the United States

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.

The Presto 04867 Poplite Plus is a hot air popcorn maker designed for those who want a healthier snack option without added oil. It can pop up to 18 cups of popcorn in about 2 and a half minutes, which is a good capacity for small families or casual use. Using hot air instead of oil means less fat, making it a heart-friendly choice. The machine is compact and lightweight, making it easy to store and move around. It also includes a built-in cord wrap to keep things tidy in your kitchen.

One handy feature is the cap that serves both as a measuring cup and a butter melter, allowing you to melt butter while the popcorn pops for a classic movie-theater taste. Cleanup is simple since no oil is used; you just wipe down the base and chute. The on/off switch adds to the convenience of use.

A few things to consider: because it uses hot air, the popcorn texture might be a bit different from stovetop or oil-popped corn, which some people prefer. Also, while 18 cups is good for average use, it might be small for large gatherings. The plastic build keeps it lightweight but might feel less durable than metal alternatives. This popper is great for anyone looking for quick, low-fat popcorn with easy cleanup and simple operation. It fits well in most kitchens without taking much space and offers extras like the butter melter that enhance the popcorn experience.

The Presto Orville Redenbacher's Hot Air Popper is a solid choice for anyone looking to make a healthy, quick batch of popcorn. It uses hot air instead of oil to pop corn, which means you get low-calorie popcorn with almost no fat—perfect if you want a lighter snack. It can pop up to 18 cups of popcorn in under 2.5 minutes, so it’s quite fast and efficient, with very few unpopped kernels left behind. Cleaning is simple since no oil is used; the base and cover just need a quick wipe.

Its size (about 14 inches tall and weighing just over 2 pounds) makes it fairly easy to store and move around, especially with the built-in cord wrap. The butter melter doubles as a measuring cup, which adds a bit of convenience. However, since it’s made mostly of plastic, it might not feel as sturdy as more expensive models, and it’s designed strictly for hot air popping—if you prefer popcorn with oil or want extra settings, this machine won’t offer that. Also, it’s a manual operation without digital controls or presets.

This popper is suited for users who want a simple, healthy, and quick way to make classic popcorn without fuss.