Who doesn’t like the fragrance of freshly made popcorn? Popcorn has been one of the most popular snacks since the 1800s. They are very easy to make and full of taste.
Even when you are not sitting in a theater, these snacks will serve you well. Their delicious taste makes the time go faster. Popcorn is very cheap when made at home. If you make them at home, they will cost fractions compared to the street and theaters’ price.
These popcorn machines are very cheap. They will save you a lot of money. But which one will suit you best? My hot air popcorn popper review guide will help you to decide. After doing extensive research, I present you with the best popcorn poppers in the market. So, let’s get started.
In Case You’re In Hurry. Here Is my Top Pick For you!
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MY TOP PICK
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Cuisinart CPM-100 EasyPop
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• Makes a batch under 3 min • Dishwasher safe • Has removable parts • BPA free |
Buy Now |
Benefits of Having Hot Air Popcorn Poppers
Popcorn makers that use hot air are the healthier choice. If you are a health-conscious person, you should avoid mixing oil or butter to pop the kernels.
Oil or butter is used to make popcorn most of the time. But these ingredients are bad for health you know. It is even more true when mixed with popcorn. Both oil and butter are full of carbohydrates. So, they add unnecessary calories to the snack.
On top of that, popcorn is mostly carbohydrates. These additional calories contribute as a weight gaining factor. It is not a healthy practice to make popcorn with oil or butter.
On the other hand, the air popcorn popper machines make the healthiest popcorns. Because they only use hot air for popping the kernel. There is no need to mix oil or butter. So, you are getting only the calories the corns offer. Popping the corn with hot air is the healthiest way.
Best Hot Air Popcorn Popper: My Honest Opinions
Cuisinart has always been a reliable brand for kitchenware. It is no surprise that they also make great hot air popcorn poppers. Cuisinart CPM-100 EasyPop is, without a doubt, the best contender for the title. Here is my top recommended best hot air popcorn propers below:
Top Pick – Cuisinart CPM-100 EasyPop
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MY TOP PICK
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Cuisinart CPM-100 EasyPop
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• Makes a batch under 3 min • Dishwasher safe • Has removable parts • BPA free |
Buy Now |
We chose this product because it has all the standard features and great build quality. The biggest benefit of this product is that it will last a long time. Moreover, you will get 3 years on the warranty, which is pretty unusual for these machines. The warranty conveys how much confidence the manufacturer has on the product.
Suggestion
Some users suggested the only drawback for this unit is popcorn flying out of it. This would create a mess around the machine.
If you face this problem, holding the machine tilting 30 degrees might solve it. Another solution would be covering the exit points.
A Tip: The product comes in two colors; they are Red and Metallic Red. If you are color-conscious, do a double-check with the seller.
Features Explanation
If two words could describe this unit, it would be – elegant and durable. It is made from the best materials available. On the inside, quality metal has been used, and on the outside, the builders used the finest plastics. For these reasons, it has become very durable.
This unit is built with removable parts. So, you will be able to clean it easily. As a result, it will last longer. There is a cup made on the popping chute. You could use that cup to melt butter if you like the flavor.
This unit can complete each batch under 3 minutes. The cooking speed is fast enough by any standard. You wouldn’t have to wait in between. If you like experimenting with popcorn, there is a recipe book that comes with it.
It is very easy to use, as there is only one button to switch it on or off. There is also a cord storage mechanism in place. For this reason, it is very convenient for storage.
Besides, it is BPA free, so you won’t have to worry about any health implications. From my research, it is the best BPA free hot air popcorn popper.
| PROS | CONS |
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| + Kernels pop really fast + Great build quality + Convenient to use | - Leaves some unpopped kernel - Flakes fly out everywhere |
Tilting the popper would solve both the problem of the unpopped kernel and flying flakes.
Who should buy it?
This is the best one from my research. If you want to make a long-term investment, this machine should be your first choice. To learn more about this, click here.
Perfect Budget – DASH DAPP150V2AQ04
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Perfect Budget
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DASH DAPP150V2AQ04
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• Low price • Touch the start button • 16 Cups capacity • Can roast coffee |
Buy Now |
This unit is made into my list because of its sleek design, decent features, and very affordable price. Besides, the touch button and sleek design make it very easy to use. Moreover, you could have 16 cups of popcorn at a time. As for capacity, it is above average. On a side note, you could roast coffee in it, too.
Suggestion
This product sometimes shoots flakes at a very high speed, and flakes jump off of the bow pretty easily.
It would be best to use a big bowl for collection.
A Tip: Use the included cup to put the right amount of kernels. Otherwise, you will be left with a lot of unpopped kernels.
Features Explanation
It has a heat chamber with high capacity. You could make 16 cups of popcorn in one batch. The butter tray and popping chute are dishwasher safe. So, you will have an easy time cleaning those.
If you like flavorings like butter or chocolate, you have the top tray to melt them. This feature increases the usability even more. You won’t have to face any health problems as this product is BPA free.
There is only one button to operate. As a result, this unit has become very easy to use. You will get 1 year of warranty.
| PROS | CONS |
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| +Easy to use +Has touch button for on/off +Easy to clean | -Tend to leave unpopped kernels -There is no power cord holder |
You need to measure the amount accurately when putting kernels in it. Be extra careful when handling the power cable.
Who should buy it?
This unit is for you if you like popcorn but on a tight budget. Visit this to see feedbacks from the users.
Perfect for Party – Presto 04868 Orville
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Perfect for Party
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Presto 04868 Orville
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• Has great capacity • Unique Design • Great popping performance • Compact storage |
Buy Now |
We picked it because it can serve the largest capacity. This one would come in handy at parties or gatherings. If you are a party freak and get this to your home, there won’t be a line standing around you waiting for the batch to finish.
Suggestion: You might see some unpopped kernels. Some kernels might even get burned. Most of the time cause of this problem lies with preheating. Preheating properly will help to a great extent.
A Tip: There is no on/off button, so unplug it as soon as you are done.
Features Explanation
This unit boasts of a unique design. The design does not allow for any mess-ups. There is a restrictor in place, so you only get the popped flakes. The cover can also be used as a bowl.
It can pop 20 cups of popcorn in under three and a half minutes. That means you could make 20 cups of popcorn in every 4 minutes. You won’t have any problem serving a large crowd.
Cleaning is really easy as there is no oil involved. You just need to wipe the whole with dampened cloth. Due to the design, the body rests inside the cover. The chance of getting damaged from accidents is really low.
Another great thing is that it uses only 1275 watts. This rate goes into the below-average category of power consumption. That means you won’t have to worry about the bill that much.
| PROS | CONS |
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| + Creates no mess + Pops most of the kernels + Great design | - It’s a bit loud - No on/off button |
Always remember it turns on the moment you plug it in.
Who should buy it?
Invite the reader to check the product himself. Raise some curiosity with this sentence so that reader wants to explore more from Amazon.
Most Power Efficient – Hamilton Beach Electric
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Most Power Efficientc
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Hamilton Beach Electric
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• Power Efficient • Large capacity • Easy to clean • Multifunctional cup |
Buy Now |
This product needs much lower power than its peers to operate. This is why it made a place into the list.
Besides, if you are a popcorn fan, you might want to enjoy them regularly. But the electric bill might concern you. In this regard, this item is made for you. It needs much lower power to operate than most others in the market.
Suggestion
Popped corns from time to time tend to get jammed in the vent. As a result, the flakes will get burned. The machine tends to get hot.
Keep an eye out for flakes jammed in the chute. You could use a spoon to bring them out. Handle it carefully as the body gets hot.
A Tip: It lacks the on/off switch. So, plugged = on, unplugged = off.
Features Explanation
It takes around 3 minutes to ready a batch. Which is pretty fast by any standard. Its chute design is very ergonomic. All the flakes will go right into the bowl. You won’t have to deal with messy surroundings after you are done.
You will have the freedom to use the melting cup as a measuring cup. This feature makes this product more versatile. To make a snack, just pour the kernels in and plug the machine. It does not get easier than this.
It needs 1012 watts to operate. On average most machines need around 1400 watts. So, you will be saving a lot on the electricity bill if you are a heavy user.
| PROS | CONS |
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| + power efficient + Great chute design + Easy to clean. | - Shoots light kernels too fast - The body gets hot(Use only heavier kernels. Don’t touch the body while working. ) |
Who should buy it?
If you like to make a batch every now and then, this would be a good choice for you. To learn more, click here.
The Fastest – Presto 04820 PopLite
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The Fastest
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Presto 04820 PopLite
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• Works very fast • Has great capacity • Comes with a cup • Built it cord-wrap |
Buy Now |
It is probably the fastest machine out there. After putting the kernels, it only takes two and a half minutes to complete a batch. For this reason, we put it on my list.
Suggestion
When putting butter on the cup, remember it might not melt when the kernels are done popping.
It would be better to melt butter in the microwave.
A Tip: You can try roasting coffee in it now and then. Doing too much will lessen the expected lifetime.
Features Explanation
The strongest side of this machine is that it can complete a batch in under 180 seconds. It will save you a lot of time.
The chute and cup are well designed. It will shoot the flakes right into the bowl. You could also put butter on the cup if you like the flavor.
It can be cleaned using hand with warm and soapy water. This means you will no longer need extra preparation for it.
There is a built-in cord wrap for easier storage. This product comes with 1 year of warranty. So, do not worry about it much.
| PROS | CONS |
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| + Solid built + Durable + Built-in cord wrap | - Body heats upt - Cannot cook a small amount(Always mind your eye when handling this machine) |
Who should buy it?
In case you do not like waiting for your fluffy popcorn, this machine will not disappoint you. Here is what others are talking about it.
The best thing about this product is that it is BPA free. You won’t have to be cautious about your health. It will cook a batch in under 3 minutes. It has a good build quality and kid-friendly design.
The major drawback is that it has no warranty. But it is ETL certified. Which means it complies with North American safety standards. So, you are sacrificing a warranty for ETL certification on this product.
How Hot Air Popcorn Maker Works
Hot air popcorn poppers follow a very simple mechanism. They are made in a vent like structure, and there is a fan with a heat source. The kernels are placed inside the vent.
When the machine is connected to power, the heating source heats up and the fan starts moving. The moving fan creates airflow, as a result, the machine sucks in the cool air from outside. The air inside gets hotter and creates a hot airflow as the fan keeps moving.
When the inside gets hot enough, the kernels start popping. The popped kernels block the passage as they take up a large area. With the airflow, they get thrown outside, and the rest of the kernels remain inside until they pop.
Types of Popcorn Kernels In The Market
There are mainly four types of kernel available for making popcorn. The best popper can pop all kinds of kernels. They are white, ladyfinger, yellow, and mushroom. We will take a look at the two most popular white and yellow kernels. Let’s take a look at what is what.
White Kernels: As you have correctly guessed, the flakes from these kernels tend to be whitish. These flakes are softer and a little smaller in size when compared with Yellow kernels. However, white kernels usually have a light flavor. The intresting thing about these ones is that the hulls are smaller. The chance of getting hulls stuck in the teeth is low.
Yellow Kernels: These kernels make larger flakes and a bit harder than the white ones. If you prefer the flavor, then Yellow kernels are a good option. But you will have to sacrifice comfort. Because they have a bigger hull. And, they tend to get stuck in teeth.
Find out more: White popcorn vs Yellow popcorn
Things to Consider Must Before Buying
There are tons of machines that can do the job for you. But, which one should you really pick? There are some basic features that all machines should have. Those features make sure you get a decent experience.
We have marked out some must-have key features that you should consider while getting one. Let’s take a look at those.
Max capacity:
Let us consider a scenario. In this scenario, there are a lot of guests at your house. And, you get the responsibility to make the popcorns. If you make those in smaller batches, guests will have to wait until you are finished with a batch. Nobody likes waiting, your guests would not too. But what is your option when you are already making batches in full capacity?
On the other hand, if you would never need a large amount, there is no point in getting one with high capacity.
This is why it is the most important part to look out for. Always make sure you are getting the one with the right capacity.
Popping time:
All popcorn poppers are fairly quick. At most, they need 5 minutes to cook a batch. For one batch, 5 minutes is not much. Imagine you need to make 10 batches. You would save like 20 minutes if your machine could cook in a faster machine. Fast machines will save you a lot of time in the long run. Even though the difference of 2 or 3 minutes might not seem like a big deal.
BPA free:
The term BPA stand for Bisphenol A. They are found in polycarbonate plastics. Polycarbonate plastics are sometimes used to make popcorn poppers. When heated, BPA can break free from the polycarbonate and latch onto the food.
BPA in food is not good thing. They might trigger many health-related side effects. This chemical can imitate the behavior of several hormones, especially the Estrogen. It can also interact with the thyroid gland altering their function.
Though more and more manufacturers have started using BPA free plastics. So before buying not only popcorn makers but also any plastic materials, check if it is BPA free.
Dishwasher safe:
Dishwashers are a lifesaver. If your popcorn maker cannot take advantage of the dishwasher, you will have to add another chore to the list.
Though washing popcorn maker is not hard, who ever liked being stuck in the kitchen washing stuff? Many machines these days are designed in a way that they can be washed in a dishwasher. Popcorn makers are no different.
If you want to avoid the extra hassle of cleaning these machines, you should look if it is dishwasher safe. This feature will save your time and hassle in the long run.
Power usage:
This factor is often forgotten when getting a popcorn machine. These machines need a lot of power to operate. So if you do not consider the wattage, there is a chance that you get confused at the end of the month. The reason for the confusion will be the electric bill. Many models use around 1400 watts, some use more than that, some use less power than that.
So, keep the wattage in mind to avoid any surprise at the end of the month.
Warranty:
These machines come with many forms of warranty. Some do not provide a warranty at all; some provide for a few years. You will get the product at a low price if you go for the ones without any warranty. Others cost a little higher.
You will have to balance your expectation and budget, depending on the warranty manufacturer provides.
Maintenance Tips of Popcorn Poppers
Air popcorn poppers are simple machines that do not need much maintenance attention. Do not get too relaxed because you will still need to do some routine cleaning.
When cleaning, first make sure the machine is unplugged. It is was recently used, then let it cool off. It is better to let it sit overnight. Some popcorn makers are dishwasher safe; some are not. If you get one that is dishwasher safe, put it in the washer and chill out.
If your popcorn popper is not dishwasher safe, at first remove all the removable parts. Wash them with soap and sponge. Do not clean any electric equipment. The machine might get damaged if somehow water goes inside those. As for other non-removable parts, wash them with damp cloths.
So you picked the best popcorn popper. In case you need the easiest recipes. We also covered that for you. Try these out and let us know! Popcorn Shrimp Recipes , Soft Caramel Popcorn Recipes!
Is Hot Air Popcorn Better Than A Microwave?
Using hot air is really better than using the microwave because the food remains healthy.
However, let us go over the difference. One method will use hot air, another will use microwaves. But the problem is the only microwave is not enough to create flakes.
So, when making popcorn using a microwave, oil or butter is used. We have already discussed in the previous section why oil and butter are a bad choice. In the microwave, you must use those. Otherwise, the kernels won’t pop. The only plus is that the microwave gives the snack an intense flavor.
On the other hand, using hot air is way healthier. You would not need oil or butter. It is a very simple and cheap operation. The popcorn will taste how it really should be.
Cooking Tips To Make Tasty Popcorn
Here more some tips we gathered from the internet to make your experience more wholesome.
- Right amount: Do not put a large amount of kernel in the machine if it cannot handle it. Doing so will leave you with many ‘unpopped’ kernels. Because the airflow might get blocked.
- Put flavor after: Whatever flavor or salt you like using, put it into the mix after they are done. Do not mix flavor with kernel and then put inside the machine. Because the air might spit out most of the powders.
- Choose the right bowl: Once the flakes start coming out, changing the bowl would be near impossible without wasting the flakes. If you get a small bowl, that might cause overspill. So, always choose the right sized bowl to avoid waste.
- Storing the kernels: This is where most people are at fault. Not storing properly will certainly damage the quality and taste. Store the kernels in an airtight bag or box and keep it in a cool place. You can cook a batch as long as the kernels can retain moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is hot air popcorn better?
There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on personal preferences. Some people may prefer hot air popcorn because it is a healthier option than traditional popcorn that is cooked in oil. Hot air popcorn is also generally lower in calories and fat. However, some people may find that traditional popcorn tastes better because it has a richer flavor.
Is hot air-popped popcorn healthy?
Yes, hot air-popped popcorn is a healthy snack option. It is a whole grain food and a good source of fiber.
Which popcorn is healthiest white or yellow?
There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on individual preferences and health goals. Some people may prefer white popcorn because it is lower in calories, while others may prefer yellow popcorn because it is a good source of whole grains. Ultimately, the healthiest popcorn is the one that fits into your overall healthy eating plan.
Why you should not eat microwave popcorn?
There are a few reasons why you might not want to eat microwave popcorn. First, it can be bad for your health. The chemicals that are used to make the popcorn can be harmful, and the popcorn itself can be high in calories and fat. Additionally, microwave popcorn can be addictive, and it can be hard to stop eating it once you start.
What brand of popcorn is the best?
There are many brands of popcorn and it is hard to say which one is the best. However, some brands that are popular among popcorn lovers are Orville Redenbacher’s, Jolly Time, and Kernel’s Gourmet Popcorn.
Can popcorn make you gain weight?
Yes, popcorn can make you gain weight if you eat too much of it. Popcorn is a high-calorie food and eating a lot of it can lead to weight gain. However, popcorn can also be a part of a healthy diet if you eat it in moderation.
Is it OK to eat popcorn every day?
There’s no need to feel guilty about indulging in a daily serving of popcorn. This whole-grain snack is not only low in calories, but it also provides a good source of fiber. Just be sure to avoid the extra butter and salt that can turn this healthy snack into an unhealthy one. 25-30 grams of popcorn is a safe margin.
How do you clean hot air popcorn makers?
There are a few ways to clean hot air popcorn makers. One way is to unplug the machine and take it apart. Clean the inside with a soft cloth and some soapy water. Rinse the parts and dry them before putting the machine back together. Another way is to clean the machine with a vinegar solution. Fill a bowl with equal parts water and vinegar. Place the machine on top of the bowl and let it run for a few minutes. Wipe down the inside of the machine with a soft cloth.
How to keep the kernel fresh?
Place them in a cool and airtight environment.
Does popcorn cause allergy?
Corn allergies are not common. But it is better to double-check before buying.
What is the popcorn expansion rate?
It is the measurement ratio of how much space a cup of kernel takes when they are turned into flakes.
Is popcorn gluten-free?
Most popcorn is gluten-free.
Bottom Line
Love or not, hating popcorn should be a criminal offense to many. Hopefully, you will side with this statement. But, not all machines offer the greatt service. This is why you would need the best hot air popcorn poppers. We think this article would serve you the best. You could pick anyone from the list that fits you. We are certain that you will have a wonderful time.
