Best Popcorn Machine Reviews Of 2024

Whether you’re at home enjoying an exciting Netflix new release, or you’re hosting a fundraiser for your local community center, a quality popcorn machine maker will save you money and provide you years of great tasting popcorn just the way you like it!

In your search for the best popcorn machine, you’ll come across several styles. Many of the top brands share similar features so it can be hard to distinguish the best from the not-so-great. For our best popcorn machine review, we examined the pros and cons of hundreds of different brands and makes and we narrowed it down to ten.

Read the overview below and get the official Fire Food Chef rankings and pricing for each of our top picks. Pros and cons are listed below in the full review.

Best Popcorn Machine Buying Guide

Best Popcorn Machine Overview


Features:

  • Dimensions: 8 x 8 x 2.2 inches
  • Weight: 12 Ounces
  • Hotpop Microwave Popcorn Popper,
  • Silicone Lid, Handles and Bowl (BPA/PAV Free)
  • Available in 12 Colors
  • Dishwasher Safe

Pros:

  • Easy to use, no assembly or parts
  • Collapsible design saves a lot of space
  • Pops kernels with or without oil just as easily
  • Yields 15 cups in under 4 minutes
  • Food-grade, BPA and PVC free
  • Microwave friendly
  • Dishwasher Safe
  • Offered in a wide assortment of 12 different colors
  • Makes a great gift idea

Cons:

  • Handles can get very hot after multiple uses in succession
  • Bowl is heat resistant but stays surprisingly hot to the touch when it comes out of your microwave

What We Like...

  • COLLAPSIBLE DESIGN: Thanks to its space saving collapsible design the Original Hotpop 8 oz Microwave Popcorn Popper hardly takes up any space when it’s not inuse. You can quickly collapse the microwave popcorn maker from a height of 5.7" to 2.4", which should fit any standard kitchen cabinets or drawers quite easily. 
  • FAST MICROWAVE COOKING: Faster than conventional stovetop methods and popcorn machines, the HotPop Popcorn Popper can produce up to 15 cups of popcorn in under 4 minutes! Eliminates the need for handling a bulky hot kettle and delivers crispy fluffy popcorn with no need for preheating.
  • EASY TO USE: Even beginners can use the Hotpop 8 oz Microwave Popcorn Popper and enjoy delicious results! Just add kernels to the quick popcorn maker, along with your choice of seasoning, and place in the microwave. Use oil or skip it entirely, either way the HotPop never fails to turn out the perfect batch.
  • SAFE AND DURABLE: 100% Food Grade Silicone BPA and PVC free [1]. Cool-touch handles on each side (heat resistance: 230c / 450F). 

Drawbacks...

  • Although the silicon handles and bowl are heat resistant up to 450 degrees fahrenheit, you’ll definitely need pot holders or a pair of oven gloves to remove the popper from the microwave. 
  • This little tub really gets hot, especially after multiple uses in a row. The handles were warm the first time, but by the second use even the non-slip handles were too hot to hold without gloves.

Features:

  • Dimensions: 11.8 x 11.8 x 21.9 inches
  • Weight: 9.65 Pounds
  • Removable Door
  • Removable, Non-stick Popper Kettle
  • 1 Popcorn Scoop
  • 1 Measuring Cup
  • 1 Measuring Spoon
  • Popcorn Recipe Instructions included
  • Available in Red

Pros:

  • Doesn’t require heat-up time like conventional stovetop popper 
  • Classic popcorn machine style is retro 
  • Leaves behind fewer kernels thanks to the mechanized spinner that distributes kernels evenly
  • Theater-style popcorn comes out fluffy
  • Nonstick kettle and door are both removable, easy to clean
  • Tilting door makes access easier for serving
  • Includes scoop, measuring cup and measuring spoon for oil, as well as Instruction /Recipe book

Cons:

  • Assembly required
  • Cleaning and maintaining does take some time and care
  • Requires adequate space on your counter and needs to be near an outlet
  • Doesn’t include a warming tray
  • The stirring arm should be wider as it leaves unpopped kernels outside its reach 

What We Like...

  • RAPID COOKING: Cuisinart is known for making great quality kitchenware and cooking appliances, and the Cuisinart CPM-28 is no exception. The 500-watt heater requires no heat-up time to create up to 10 cups of delicious, fluffy popcorn in just minutes.
  • FEWER UNCOOKED KERNELS: A mechanized spinner spreads the kernels in the kettle to ensure more even cooking of all the kernels with each batch. 
  • TILTING DOOR: Tilt access door allows for easy serving.
  • EASY TO MAINTAIN: Door and nonstick kettle are removable for fast cleanup
  • POPCORN ACCESSORIES: Includes popcorn scoop, kernel measuring cup, and oil measuring spoon. Instruction/Recipe book included.

Drawbacks...

  • Assembly required
  • Cleaning and maintaining does take some time and care
  • Requires adequate space on your counter and needs to be near an outlet
  • Doesn’t include a warming tray
  • Although a minor detail, the stirring arm on the Cuisinart CPM-28 could be slightly wider as it leaves unpopped kernels outside its reach.

Features

  • Dimensions: 17 x 14 x 24 inches
  • Weight: 27 Pounds
  • Powder Coated Stainless Steel Construction
  • Tempered Glass Walls and Door
  • Reject Kernel Tray
  • 8oz Popper Kettle
  • Warmer Light
  • Storage Cabinet
  • 1 Popcorn Scoop
  • Kernel and Oil Scoop
  • 5yr Warranty

Pros:

  • Vintage design is appealing
  • Produces movie theater style popcorn consistently
  • Operates whisper quiet
  • Built in Spot light warmer keeps popcorn warm and ready to serve
  • Large capacity yields approximately 3 gallons of popcorn per batch
  • Kernel Tray catches reject kernels to reduce cleanup
  • Durable, heavy duty stainless steel resists wear and tear
  • Warmer Deck included

Cons:

  • Some minor assembly is required
  • Cleaning requires time and care
  • Although it’s countertop, it’s fairly large and needs to be near an electrical outlet
  • Heavier than other models due to its stainless steel construction

What We Like...

  • 3-SWITCH MANUAL OPERATION: This is the deluxe model of the Superior Popcorn Company Countertop Movie Night Popper Machine. For added energy efficiency, it has 3 control switches instead of only 2 for operating the stirrer, warmer light, and kettle warmer individually.
  • KEEPS POPCORN WARM: Built-in warmer light; Popcorn scoop is included; Reject kernel tray Kernel and oil scoop included. You also get a Heated Warming Deck.
  • DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Heavy-duty powder coated steel and stainless steel construction; safety tempered glass walls and door will last several years of use [2]. This is one of the most durable popcorn machines in our review so far.
  • LARGE CAPACITY: Makes roughly 3 gallons of popcorn per batch; great for large families or serving guests in your home, at a community center, or a small fundraising event.
  • LOW NOISE: Whisper quiet while it’s operating, uses only 860 watts
  • KERNEL TRAY: Catches those old maids that are left unpopped so you spend less time on clean-up

Drawbacks...

  • Minor Assembly is required
  • Cleaning and maintaining does take some time and care. It is hard to clean, but then I expected that since it's small and has lots of tiny corners. The metal edges are sharp and can cut you if you are not careful when cleaning it
  • At 27 pounds, this vintage popcorn machine weighs in on the heavier side for a countertop model. Requires adequate space on your counter and needs to be near an outlet
  • If you don't preheat it you will end up with lots of unpopped kernels
  • The glass door is 1/4 inch too short on the top and unpopped kernels sometimes fly out through the gap.
  • The first batch comes out fairly quickly, subsequent ones take a little bit longer.

Features: 

  • Dimensions: 13.6 x 14.4 x 22.8 inches
  • Weight: 29.2 Pounds
  • 8oz Stainless Steel Popper Kettle
  • 2-3 Gallons per Batch
  • 3-Position Control Switch
  • ‘Old Maid’ Drawer
  • Tempered Glass Panels And Doors
  • Reject Kernel Tray
  • Popcorn Scoop And Oil Scoop

Pros:

  • Vintage popcorn maker design
  • Durable tempered glass and stainless steel construction  
  • Large capacity kettle pot yields 2 -3 gallons of popcorn per batch
  • Kernel Catcher makes clean-up less time consuming
  • Built-in warmer light keeps popcorn warm
  • Kernel Tray catches reject kernels to reduce cleanup
  • Durable, heavy duty stainless steel resists wear and tear
  • Warmer Deck included

Cons:

  • Requires some minor assembly.
  • Sharp metal corners can be a hazard. If you remove the kernel catcher to clean any debris do so with care!
  • Loading popcorn and oil is impeded by the flap on top of the pot, which occasionally jams with popcorn
  • The stirrer will stop rotating when it overheats, which could be a problem if you need to serve high volume.

What We Like...

  • EFFICIENT DESIGN: The Great Northern Popcorn Antique Popcorn Machine has a 3 position control switch so you can operate the warmer light, stirrer or pot heater as needed. The design Saves energy and requires only 860 watts to produce bags and bags of fluffy, theater-style popcorn.
  • OLD MAID DRAWER: Holes punched in the floor piece are sized for ‘old maids’ to go through where they are neatly and conveniently captured in a catch drawer that pulls out for easy cleaning.
  • DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: The Great Northern Antique Popcorn Machine features tempered glass doors and walls for greater durability over the years. Forty percent thicker glass and thirty percent thicker stainless steel is surprisingly sturdy despite its minimal design.
  • LARGE CAPACITY: Makes roughly 2-3 gallons of popcorn per batch. Great for fundraisers, schools, community centers, small office gatherings, and more.
  • GREAT CUSTOMER SUPPORT: Friendly, prompt customer service responds to inquiries with solutions, not more problems. There’s also the security of a 3-year warranty and a 30 day limited warranty on all consumable parts including kettles and/or light bulbs.

Drawbacks...

  • Requires some minor assembly
  • Needs a cabinet/end table/shelf or something to put it on. Something that is at least 2.5 to 3 feet tall.
  • After a few uses, the ink on the plastic containers will start to run. If you’re not careful, you could end up getting red handprints all over your new popcorn maker! Seems like they could have invested a bit more in better quality ink.
  • You may find it difficult to scoop the popcorn out with the scooper, without burning your hand on the popper or spilling the corn.

Features: 

  • Dimensions: 10.3 x 10.9 x 17.7 inches
  • Weight: 7.5 Pounds
  • 4oz Aluminum Popper Kettle
  • 5 - 6 Servings per Batch
  • On/Off Switch
  • Kernel Catcher
  • Reject Kernel Tray
  • Popcorn Scoop And Oil Scoop

Pros:

  • 4 oz. kettle pops 5-6 servings of popcorn
  • Stir Crazy stir rod technology for a larger yield of popped popcorn
  • Includes measuring cup, spoon, and popcorn scoop
  • Non-stick, removable popping kettle makes cleanup easier
  • Popper cabinet and kettle are easier to clean than other brands with similar design

Cons:

  • Kernel tray is a pain because it’s not removable
  • Everything is made of plastic so it feels a bit flimsy. The transparent walls are thin plastic, prone to scratches and not very heat resistant.
  • Getting the popcorn out is messy. You can either try to scoop it out or dump the whole machine in a bowl, which is hard to do without spilling.
  • Paper-thin plastic kernel catcher could easily get lost or damaged.
  • No built-in warmer light
  • Wear gloves! The kettle sits low and opens even lower so it's almost impossible to remove the popcorn without burning the back of your hand.

What We Like...

  • READY IN MINUTES: The West Bend 82515 Hot Theater Style Popper Machine can pop up to four quarts of popcorn with no preheating. You can have 5 - 6 servings of movie theater style popcorn in only minutes.
  • HIGH YIELD PER SERVING: Utilizes the West Bend Stir Crazy stir rod technology to ensure a larger yield of popped popcorn compared to similar brands.
  • UNIQUE KETTLE DESIGN: Uniquely-designed, non-stick popping kettle tilts to dump popcorn and is removable for fast, easy cleaning. Kettle cover is removable and magnets in the ceiling of the popper hold it out of the way while dumping popcorn. The non-stick coated kettle, along with the removable lid and stir rod, makes cleanup less of a hassle.
  • SIMPLE YET STURDY: Popper cabinet is attractive, durable, and easy to clean. The small footprint makes owning a theater popper convenient for anyone
  • EASY TO USE: Convenient, easy-to-reach on/off switch is all you need to operate the West Bend 82515 Hot Theater Style Popper Machine. It also includes a kernel catcher and grate fit for easy removal of unpopped kernels. Tilting door on the front also makes scooping and serving much easier.

Drawbacks...

  • The kernel tray is not removable.
  • Primary construction material is plastic including the walls, so it looks and feels kind of cheap compared to brands with stainless steel and tempered glass.
  • Paper-thin plastic kernel catcher is really flimsy. You could easily lose or damage it.
  • Not a big deal, but a warmer light would be nice. 
  • The kettle is positioned quite low which makes it easy to load, but it’s hard to get the popcorn without touching the hot kettle accidently with the back of your hand. The best way to protect yourself is to wear gloves. 

Features: 

  • Dimensions: 21 x 16.5 x 53 inches
  • Weight: 44.4 Pounds
  • 8oz Stainless Steel Popper Kettle
  • Tempered Glass Walls
  • Up to 32 Servings per Batch
  • Lighted Interior
  • Side Shelf
  • Reject Kernel Tray
  • 2-Switch Operation

Pros:

  • 8oz Popper Kettle Serves 32 cups of movie style  popcorn with each batch
  • Durable tempered glass walls and doors are scratch and heat resistant
  • Tilting door makes it easier to scoop out popcorn and serve
  • Attractive Vintage Design is portable
  • Lighted interior allows for easy viewing in dark or dim lit conditions (outdoors)
  • Storage cabinet is useful for keeping popcorn utensils and ingredients

Cons:

  • Popcorn tray is not removable, but should be cleaned after each use.
  • Requires significant time and care cleaning
  • Some assembly is required.

What We Like...

  • 32 CUPS PER BATCH: Keep the popcorn coming and bags full of fresh, crispy popcorn. At home or your office, the Nostalgia Concession CCP510 pops up to 32 cups of movie theater style popcorn per batch.
  • DURABLE 8 OUNCE KETTLE: The 8 ounce stainless steel kettle holds is designed with a built-in kernel stirring system and dual hinged lid to easily empty the popcorn when it’s read. (Kettle can be removed for easy cleaning)
  • TEMPERED SAFETY GLASS: Tempered glass windows are heat resistant. They’re also designed to resist breakage or scratching to keep it looking new longer.
  • STYLISH DESIGN: A lighted interior gives the Nostalgia Concession CCP510 a vintage kind of ambiance. You can easily watch the progress of your popcorn even outdoors in dark conditions.
  • EASY SERVE TILT DOOR: To make serving easier, there’s a tilt door fitted on the front that pulls out for scooping and serving every batch of fresh, fluffy popcorn.
  • STORAGE COMPARTMENT: Conveniently store your popcorn kernels, oils, seasonings, and other popcorn serving accessories in the base of the unit

Drawbacks

  • The popcorn tray is not removable. 
  • This is a large unit that will require adequate storage space and routine cleaning. Cleaning is a bit time consuming but essential to keeping the machine in optimum working condition and bacteria-free.
  • Some assembly is required but the directions are a bit confusing. 
  • Takes a little longer to warm up then stated

Features: 

  • Dimensions: 14 x 12 x 10 inches
  • Weight: 4.7 Pounds
  • 6-Quart Popper Tub
  • BPA-Free Lid
  • Microwave Friendly
  • Dishwasher Safe

Pros:

  • Perfect size for the average family of 3 - 4
  • No preheating needed, cooks up to 40% faster than stirring method
  • Quick heat technology reduces heat up time so popcorn is ready to serve in 4 minutes or less
  • Compact design is easy to store
  • Stirring rod and plate leave behind fewer old maids, less cleanup
  • Removable components are dishwasher-friendly, makes cleaning easier
  • Cool touch handles and ventilation holes in the lid ensure great results more consistently
  • Overheat protection

Cons:

  • Can only do small batches at a time
  • Only available in one color (red)
  • Food-grade plastic material is BPA free and heat resistant but not as durable as glass

What We Like...

  • RAPID COOKING: The Yabano Popcorn Machine features Quick-heat technology that pops your popcorn 40% faster than traditional stirring popcorn makers. No preheating, no waiting, just throw a batch of kernels into the kettle, turn on the machine and fluffy popcorn is ready in four minutes or less.
  • FAMILY SIZE: The Yabano Popcorn Machine can make 6 quarts of popcorn per batch, enough to supply a family of 4 - 5. Sit back and enjoy a movie with enough popcorn to last.
  • 2-IN-1 THICKEN COVER: The transparent cover can be used as either a lid or a serving bowl. Just flip the popper over when it’s ready. Kids will get a kick out of watching the kernels pop through the transparent cover too.
  • HIGH YIELD PER BATCH: Thanks to a motorized stirring rod, this machine can heat the kernels fairly evenly. With the right mix of ingredients, there’ll be fewer kernels left behind.
  • REMOVABLE COMPONENTS: The non-stick popping plate is easy to clean and dishwasher safe. The kettle can be removed as well to make cleanup and maintenance easier. BPA-free lid/bowl won’t leach harmful chemicals into your popcorn.
  • THOUGHTFUL DESIGN FEATURES: Ventilated popcorn cabinet reduces steam or condensation buildup, which helps to keep the popcorn crispy and crunchy. Cool touch handles means you can safely remove it from the microwave without scalding your fingers when you invert the popping plate. The Yabano Popcorn Machine also includes overheat protection.

Drawbacks...

  • Sadly, the popcorn tray is not removable and requires cleaning.
  • Requires time and routine cleaning
  • Some assembly is required. The directions aren't as helpful as you might like, but it’s not impossible to figure out.

Features: 

  • Dimensions: 13.25 x 11.25 x 17 inches
  • Weight: 8 Pounds
  • 2.5 oz Stainless Steel Kettle
  • Crank Handle
  • Tilt Door
  • Kernel Measuring Cap & Oil Measuring Spoon
  • 360 Degree Clear View 

Pros:

  • Serves up to 10 cups per batch
  • Ideal size for small gatherings, personal use or family of 4
  • Stainless Steel Kettle with crank handle makes it easier to serve popcorn
  • Tilt Door provides easy access 

Cons:

  • Doesn’t have a warmer light
  • Can be difficult to clean
  • Leaves about 10% of the kernels unpopped
  • Only makes enough for about 2 people per time
  • Needs about 2 minutes of warm up time

What We Like...

  • GREAT FOR SMALL GATHERINGS: The Nostalgia KPM200 pops up to 10 cups of popcorn per batch, which is quite a bit for the 2.5 ounce kettle.
  • DURABLE KETTLE: Removable stainless steel kettle has a built-in stirring system. The kettle also has a crank handle with a large red knob. You turn the crank to empty the kettle. Since it’s not that big, there are fewer kernels left over.
  • ATTRACTIVE DESIGN: It looks a bit flimsy but the kids will love it. The 360 degree clear view popping chamber has vented windows and a lighted interior for easy viewing.
  • EASY TO USE: A tilt door along the bottom of the Nostalgia KPM200 allows easy serving access. It also comes with a kernel measuring cup and oil measuring spoon.

Drawbacks...

  • Although the Nostalgia KPM200 has a lighted interior, it doesn’t have a warmer light. Since the walls are vented, popcorn cools quickly.
  • There’s no kernel tray to catch old maids so they end up getting mixed up with the popcorn when you dump the kettle. On average, about 10% of the kernels remain unpopped, which isn’t bad but not great.
  • The 2.5 ounce could be considered small. It really only makes enough for about 2 people at a time.
  • Some warm up time is required (2 minutes or so)

Features: 

  • Dimensions: 10 x 9.4 x 5.5 inches
  • Weight: 2.4 Pounds
  • 16oz Measuring Cup
  • Popcorn Recipe Book
  • Available in 2 Colors (Red/Turquoise Blue)
  • 1 Yr Manufacturer’s Warranty

Pros:

  • Easy to use, no assembly or parts required
  • Sleek and lightweight design is portable and suitable for any countertop space
  • Pops kernels efficiently without oil for healthier popcorn (uses hot air)
  • Yields 16 cups in under 4 minutes
  • Dishwasher Safe parts
  • Offered in 2 different colors

Cons:

  • Kernels can occasionally escape from the reservoir during the popping process
  • Could be considered slightly noisy. Not as loud as a vacuum cleaner, for instance but audible enough to wake the kids late at night

What We Like...

  • EASY TO USE: Enjoy hot crispy popcorn in only minutes with the press of a button. Just measure and add your popcorn kernels to the high capacity heating chamber, then push the one-touch start button.
  • HEALTHIER POPCORN: Unlike many of the other popcorn machines in our review, the DASH Popcorn machine maker uses hot air instead of oil to rapidly heat the kernels more efficiently. One batch produces as much as 16 cups of fluffy, delicious popcorn with no added preservatives, oil or fat.
  • COMPACT DESIGN: Sleek and lightweight, this countertop popcorn machine weighs a mere 2.4 pounds. It’s portable design fits comfortably on any countertop, but you can also load it onto your RV, yacht, or take it to the cottage. Certainly makes a great gift, and it’s available in your choice of either red or turquoise blue.
  • MULTIFUNCTIONAL: The DASH Hot Air Popcorn Popper Maker includes a measuring cup that can also serve as a butter melting tray. Rest it on top of the machine with a tablespoon of butter. As your popcorn pops, the butter melts so you can pour it over your fresh bag of popcorn for that authentic movie theater style taste.

Drawbacks...

  • There’s really little to complain about thanks to the simplicity of its design. One thing you will notice, however, is that it’s much louder than a microwave popper or a traditional popcorn machine. When it sits on your counter, it vibrates, which adds to the noise level.
  • The Dash Hot Air Popper actually pops more kernels per batch than many of the top brands in our review, but sometimes kernels will pop right out of the reservoir before the entire batch is popped. It’s a small problem that could be fixed with a removable guard on the front where the popcorn dispenses.

Features: 

  • Dimensions: 21.9 x 12 x 11.9 inches
  • Weight:10.8 Pounds
  • Built-In Electric Stirring System
  • With Low-Noise Motor
  • On/Off Control Switch
  • Popcorn Scoop
  • Detachable Clear Acrylic Door

Pros:

  • Large 8 oz Kettle capacity
  • Built-in stirring motor is low noise
  • Detachable hot-oil kettle and acrylic door are easy to wash (dishwasher friendly)
  • No assembly required
  • Competitive price compared to other brands with smaller capacity

Cons:

  • Cleaning the machine does require some time and work
  • Needs to be vacuumed or brushed regularly to prevent bacteria on surfaces
  • No auto shutoff feature to prevent overheating
  • Heavier than other models due to its stainless steel construction

Assembly/Set Up

The Paramount 8oz Popcorn Maker Machine comes fully assembled in your choice of either bright red or black. There is, however, a detachable acrylic door. No tools are required for its removal or to reattach it. The rotational hot-oil kettle is also detachable from the low-noise, built-in motor.

A simple on/off switch activates the popcorn machine once its plugged in. Any standard grounded outlet 110v will do.

Compared to a commercial popcorn machine, the Paramount 8oz Popcorn Maker Machine is much smaller, but it’s still fairly large for a household kitchen appliance. At almost 22” inches in height, you’ll also need some clearance above it.

Due to its increased 8oz capacity, you may need to clear some space on your countertop. Is it heavy? You’ll be relieved to know it weighs about 12 pounds, relatively light if you’re just relocating it from the kitchen to your home theater or den, for example.

Construction Quality
For the most part, the Paramount 8oz Popcorn Maker Machine is quite sturdy. The machine body and clear walls are made primarily of acrylic plastic [3]. All the walls are clear, and housed within the unit is the hot-oil kettle, made of a durable, heat resistant metal exterior with a non-stick ceramic coated interior. Thick silicon rubber handles allow you to tilt, rotate, or remove the kettle as needed [4].

With normal wear and tear, occasional use, and regular maintenance, the built-in motor and electric stirring system should perform to standard for several uses. The manufacturer does offer a limited lifetime warranty.

Kettle Capacity
Eight Ounce Maximum Capacity
Also suitable for use with 2.5oz, 4oz, 6oz Popcorn Packets Per Batch

Performance
A simple on/off switch powers the popcorn machine on or off. There are no Wifi or digital features to mess with, just a very straightforward, classic hot-oil kettle design. To operate, you simply lift the kettle lid, enter your ingredients into the kettle, and wait for the built in stirring motor and heat to stimulate the transformation from kernels to popcorn!

Despite its increased capacity, the Paramount’s built-in stirring motor operates with low-noise. You can turn it on and still enjoy a movie in your home theater without having to crank the decibels up.

Many users have noted that there can be a number of kernels that remain behind after every batch. The larger the batch, the more kernels seem to be left behind. This, however, is standard even with the best commercial grade popcorn machines.

You can typically expect anywhere from 2% to 8% kernel remains per batch, depending on the type and quantity of ingredients used. Paramount explicitly warns that...“This product is not a "commercial" machine and is not designed for "high volume" applications.” According to our research, however making several back-to-back batches with the Paramount 8oz Popcorn Maker Machine is actually do-able.

One user happily reported that they were able to make 300 - 400 bags of popcorn with the Paramount 8oz over the course of about 3 hours!

Of course, if you decide to use the machine for a fundraising event, for example, and it malfunctions, the limited lifetime warranty will be null and void.

Cleaning And Maintenance
Perhaps the only drawback to the Paramount 8oz Machine is the clean up and maintenance required. Granted, cleaning a popcorn machine does require some work, but the effort is worth it, and Paramount has done a pretty good job of making it less painful.

The clear acrylic walls sides are easy to wipe down once the machine has cooled. The door and the hot-oil kettle are dishwasher safe. A vacuum or brush is the best way to remove dirt from the interior, which is important to keep your popcorn from contamination by bacteria [5].


How To Pick The Right Popcorn Machine For You

There are 2 key factors to consider when comparing different brands of the best popcorn maker machine. Determining how often you’ll be using the machine and how many you expect to serve is a good place to start your search.

  1. Kettle Capacity: Measured in ounces, the larger the capacity, the more popcorn you can serve. 
  2. Machine Size: Popcorn machines are available as countertop models, cart models, and commercial-size. For personal use at home, a quality countertop popcorn machine is ideal. Small events such as a community fundraiser can be served by a popcorn machine cart equipped with wheels for easy transport. Finally, if you plan to open a revue theater of your own, commercial-size machines are designed for high-demand and efficiency.

In our Paramount 8oz Popcorn Maker Machine review, we also chose to consider additional factors such as cleaning, maintenance, and performance. Style and pricing may also be factors you want to consider besides performance.

Serving Frequency And Size
If you consume popcorn at home monthly or even weekly, a countertop machine with anywhere from 2 - 6 oz capacity should serve your needs adequately.

For more frequent use, look for 8 oz or higher. Small restaurants and catering services would best serve their customers with a kettle capacity of 12 or higher.

When using a popcorn maker machine, smaller batches at a time will yield the best results. Even with a large, commercial 30 oz machine, you’ll leave fewer ‘old maids’ behind by not filling the kettle to capacity with each batch. 

Watch and learn how easy it is to make popcorn with a popcorn maker machine!


References

[1] Silicone vs. Plastic: What's The Difference & Is One Safer? (Mind,Body Green)
[2] Are Tempered Glass Tables Scratch Resistant? (Hunker)
[3] What is the difference between acrylic and plastic? (Quora)
[4] Silicone Vs. Plastic: What's The Difference & Is One Safer? (mbgplanet.com)
[5] Six germy situations to avoid if you want to stay healthy (Washington Post)

About the Author William Clay

William Clay is a BBQ enthusiast dedicated to sharing his grilling (and overall cooking) expertise with FireFoodChef's readers.