Think back ten years ago. What did you imagine life in 2020 would be like? Flying cars? World peace? It’s almost 2020, and while we don’t yet have any of that, we do have what feels like an infinite number of streaming services to choose from, giving movie and TV fans little reason to ever leave the house.
Fortunately, it’s possible to upgrade your binge-watching experience with healthy, homemade popcorn without the questionable chemicals found in microwave popcorn bags and for much less than you’d pay at the movies. At just a few cents per serving, there’s almost no reason not to opt for homemade popcorn over packaged popcorn.
Here are five of the best microwavable popcorn makers (because let’s be real, who wants to stand over the counter dodging flying hot kernels?) you can buy online.
Ecolution Original Microwave Micro-Pop Popcorn Popper
Available in two sizes (snack and family), the glass Ecolution Micro-Pop popcorn maker is my favorite. The tempered glass means it’s safe to heat and easy to wash in the dishwasher and doesn’t leach chemicals into your movie-time snack. Comparable models feature a glass handle, which can easily break off.
The Ecolution is made with a durable plastic heat-safe handle. The perforated silicone lid can measure kernels and melt butter while the popcorn is popping. With its cute shape and cheery red accents, this is a great option if you’ve got counter or shelf space to spare.
Original Salbree Microwave Popcorn Popper
The Salbree version is the best for those with small kitchens. It’s made from durable silicon and collapses flat for easy storage. The geniusly designed lid is made to fit snugly over the kernels and rise as they pop, keeping the steam inside the vessel while ensuring kernels don’t fly all over the microwave. I’ve been using this version the longest and find that it leaves very few kernels unpopped.
Nordic Ware Microwave Popcorn Popper
While not as sexy as the Ecolution model, the Nordic Ware popper is made from high-density plastic and comes from a reputable, American-made company. Its shape and plastic make it versatile than the Ecolution and Salbree models, doubling as a queso transporter for your next potluck.
Microwave Popcorn Popper
Cestari’s popper is made from BPA-free, premium silicone that, according to the company, meets European food safety standards (which are apparently more strict than those set by the FDA). The popcorn-box shape will make you feel like you’re at a movie theater and enthusiastic reviewers report fluffy popcorn every time.
OXO Good Grips Microwave Popcorn Popper
The priciest of the bunch, OXO Good Grips version does it all: it pops consistently, doubles as a serving bowl and stores compactly. The lid also locks in place so you can easily incorporate butter or oil and toppings. This model is perfect for those who want to make popcorn without adding oil.