7 Best Microwaves for Popcorn in 2024: A Comprehensive Guide
When it comes to enjoying a delicious snack, few things can beat a big bowl of popcorn. Whether you prefer it plain, seasoned, or topped with butter, popcorn is a versatile treat that is loved by many. While cooking popcorn on the stove is an option, it can be messy and time-consuming. Fortunately, microwaves offer a convenient and efficient way to make popcorn. In this article, we’ll guide you through choosing the best microwave for popcorn and present our top picks for 2023.
How to choose the best microwave popcorn popper
To ensure that you can consistently make the best popcorn, there are a few key features to consider when choosing a microwave. Here are the factors to keep in mind:
1. Smart Sensor
Look for microwaves with a smart sensor. This innovative technology detects the moisture level of the food you are cooking and adjusts the cooking time and temperature accordingly. By eliminating the guesswork, a microwave with a smart sensor ensures perfectly cooked popcorn every time.
2. Pre-programmed popcorn button
Check to see if the microwave has a pre-programmed popcorn button. This button is designed specifically for popcorn and helps prevent burns by stopping the microwave when the pop slows down. While it is still important to monitor the popcorn, a pre-programmed button can be a helpful tool.
3. Time Add-On Button
Consider a microwave that has a 30-second or 1-minute extra time button. This button allows you to quickly and easily extend the cooking time if needed. It ensures that your popcorn pops as completely as possible, maximizing your enjoyment.
4. Rotating turntable
A rotating turntable is essential for even cooking. It ensures that the heat is evenly distributed throughout the food, preventing hot spots that can cause burns. In addition, a rotating turntable is easy to clean, keeping your microwave in good condition.
5. Large interior
Choose a microwave with a spacious interior. Popcorn expands as it cooks, and a larger interior allows for proper rotation even after the kernels have expanded. This prevents uneven cooking and ensures a delicious popcorn experience.
6. Easy-to-clean interior
Keeping your microwave clean is important to maintaining the quality of your popcorn. Look for a microwave with an easy-to-clean interior that resists debris and old food. A clean interior also helps prevent burns and preserves the flavor and aroma of your popcorn.
7. Child lock
If you have children at home, consider a microwave with a childlock feature. This feature prevents children from operating the microwave unsupervised, reducing the risk of accidents and burnt popcorn.
Top 7 Microwaves for Popcorn in 2023
Now that we’ve discussed the most important features to consider, let’s dive into our top picks for the best popcorn microwaves in 2023:
1. Amazon Basics Microwave Bundle with Echo Dot
– Best overall popcorn microwave
– Includes automatic popcorn reorder and 10% off popcorn orders
– Voice activated control with Amazon Dot
– Child lock and rotating turntable
– Maximum popcorn bag size: 3 ounces
2. Toshiba Smart Sensor Microwave Oven
– Programmable microwave with smart sensor
– 1.2 cubic foot interior and rotating turntable
– Pre-programmed popcorn button and extra time button
– Easy-clean interior and eco-friendly design
3. BLACK+DECKER Digital Microwave Oven
– 1.4 cubic foot interior for larger capacity
– Pre-programmed popcorn setting and rotating turntable
– Child lock for added safety
– Easy to clean with a microfiber cloth
4. GE Appliances GE Countertop Microwave Oven
– Sleek black stainless steel design
– 0.9 cubic foot interior with rotating turntable
– Popcorn and time buttons
– Child lock for safety
5. Farberware 1.1-Cu. Ft. 1000-Watt Microwave Oven
– Classic design with easy pull handle
– One-touch cooking options, including popcorn button
– Internal LED light for easy supervision
6. Panasonic Microwave Oven
– Great compact option for smaller spaces
– Features a rotating turntable for even cooking
– Easy to clean and maintain
7. Panasonic Countertop Microwave 2-in-1 FlashXpress Broiler
– With Smart Genius Sensor for precise cooking
– Versatile microwave with broiler function
– Child lock for added safety
– Stylish stainless steel design
Conclusion
Choosing the right microwave for popcorn can greatly enhance your snacking experience. By considering features such as a smart sensor, pre-programmed popcorn button, time add-on button, rotating turntable, large interior, easy-to-clean interior, and child safety lock, you can ensure that your popcorn is cooked perfectly every time.
In this article, we present our top picks for the best popcorn microwaves of 2024. Each of these microwaves offers unique features and benefits, so you can find the perfect option based on your needs and preferences.
Remember to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for popcorn cooking times and safety precautions. With the right microwave and a little care, you can enjoy delicious, freshly popped popcorn in the comfort of your own home. Happy snacking!
FAQS
What makes a microwave oven ideal for making popcorn?
An ideal microwave for making popcorn should have features such as a smart sensor, a pre-programmed popcorn button, a timer button, a rotating turntable, a large interior, an easy-to-clean interior, and a childlock.
Can I use any microwave to make popcorn?
While you can technically use any microwave to make popcorn, microwaves with special popcorn features, such as a pre-programmed button and rotating turntable, provide better results and ensure even cooking.
Are microwaves with smart sensors worth considering?
Yes, microwaves with smart sensors are worth considering because they detect moisture levels and adjust cooking time and temperature accordingly, resulting in perfectly cooked popcorn and eliminating guesswork.
How important is a rotating turntable when cooking popcorn?
A rotating turntable is critical for evenly distributing heat to the popcorn kernels, preventing hot spots and ensuring that the popcorn pops evenly.
Are there any safety features to look for in a microwave popcorn maker?
Yes, it is recommended to look for microwaves with a child safety lock to prevent children from operating the microwave unsupervised, reducing the risk of accidents and burnt popcorn.
Is it easy to clean the inside of the microwave?
Yes, it is important to choose a microwave with an easy-to-clean interior that is resistant to debris and old food. Regular cleaning will help maintain the quality of your popcorn and prevent burns.