10 Best Popcorn Makers 2025 in the United States

The Matinee Popcorn Machine by Great Northern Popcorn is designed for both home entertainment and party settings, boasting an 8-ounce capacity that can produce up to 3 gallons of popcorn per batch. This makes it suitable for those who frequently host gatherings or have larger families. The machine features a stainless-steel kettle with a built-in stirrer to ensure even popping and a reject kernel tray to collect un-popped kernels, which adds to its efficiency and convenience. The heated deck helps keep the popcorn warm and fresh until you're ready to serve.

One of its notable strengths is its ease of use; the 3-switch design allows independent control of the kettle heater, stirrer, and warming light, making operation straightforward even for those new to popcorn machines. Cleaning is also relatively simple, requiring just a wipe down with a damp cloth for the interior. The tempered glass and stainless steel construction underline the product’s durability and safety.

However, the machine’s weight of 30.5 pounds and dimensions (14.4”L x 13.6”W x 22.8”H) mean it can take up a substantial amount of counter space, and storage might be cumbersome for some users. Additionally, while the product includes useful accessories such as measuring cups, scoops, and popcorn bags, its size might not be ideal for those with limited kitchen space. The Matinee Popcorn Machine offers a blend of high capacity, ease of use, and solid build quality, making it a great option for frequent popcorn makers, though its size and heft are considerations to keep in mind.

The VEVOR Commercial Popcorn Machine is designed for heavy use, making it a strong choice for businesses, events, or large gatherings. It has an 8-ounce kettle that can pop up to 48 cups of popcorn per batch, which is quite generous and suitable for serving many people quickly. Its 850W power heats the kettle fast, so you don’t have to wait long to start getting fresh popcorn. The popper is a countertop model with a sturdy steel frame and tempered glass doors, giving it a classic theater look while allowing you to see the popcorn inside.

Operation is straightforward thanks to three separate switches controlling the warmer, stirrer, and pot heater, making it easy for anyone to use. The warming deck keeps popcorn fresh and ready to serve without getting soggy. Cleaning is made easier by removable parts like the kettle lid and crumb tray, although the machine is somewhat heavy at nearly 29 pounds, so it’s best suited for a fixed countertop spot rather than moving around frequently. Accessories like a scoop and spoons are included, which is a nice touch for convenience.

On the downside, the machine is relatively large, so storage might be a concern if kitchen space is limited. While it’s designed to handle high volume, it may be more than needed for casual home use. If you’re looking for a reliable, high-capacity popcorn maker with commercial-style features and don’t mind its size and weight, this VEVOR model is a solid pick.

The Nostalgia Popcorn Maker is designed to offer a vintage movie theater experience right at home. With a capacity to pop up to 10 cups of popcorn per batch, it serves as an excellent choice for family gatherings or movie nights. Its 2.5-ounce stainless steel kettle is equipped with a stirring system to ensure even popping, which is a notable advantage for consistent results.

Cleaning is made easier with the removable kettle and the dual-hinged lid that allows for hassle-free emptying. This feature can be particularly appealing for parents who want to make popcorn without spending too much time on cleanup. Additionally, the machine's tempered safety glass windows enhance its safety profile, keeping users protected from heat and breakage.

It is essential to consider some drawbacks as well. At 27 pounds, the machine is quite heavy, which may pose a challenge for some users when moving or storing it. While it boasts a charming retro design that can add character to your kitchen, the size—24 inches tall—might not be ideal for those with limited countertop space. Though it works well with various Nostalgia popcorn kits, for those looking for a straightforward popcorn maker, the extra features may seem unnecessary.