The Best Microwave Popcorn Machine, According to a Dietitian

Here’s an unpopular opinion, especially coming from a dietitian: I’m just not that into popcorn.

My youngest child, however, is a popcorn enthusiast. So, in the name of good parenting (and sneaking in a whole-grain snack—yes, popcorn counts!), I keep it on hand in our pantry.

I’ll occasionally buy a bag of the pre-popped stuff, but most of the time, I make a fresh, warm batch. And no, not the microwave bags—those historically come with PFAS (also known as “forever chemicals”), and even though manufacturers and the FDA claim they are phasing them out, I remain skeptical.

After testing almost two dozen popcorn makers, this Ecolution Micro-Pop impressed me most. It not only pops like a champ (compared to other models, it had the fewest unpopped kernels), but it’s the perfect size for my 10-year-old popcorn fanatic.

Ecolution Micro-Pop Microwave Popcorn Popper

Personally, I love the design: It’s made of durable, heat-safe borosilicate glass, so you can monitor the popcorn as it cooks. The protective base makes it safer for kids to use, and the handle doesn’t heat up in the microwave—another perk if kids are using it. The lid is multipurpose: Use it to measure your kernels and melt butter over the kernels as they pop.

We tested the 1.5-quart model, which is the perfect size for an after-school or evening snack for any kid or adult. It also comes in a 3-quart size if you usually make popcorn for a few folks.

Best of all, it’s completely dishwasher-safe. And it comes out looking good as new each time we run it through the dishwasher.

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At the time of publishing, the price was $15.