Whirley Pop vs. Stir Crazy vs. Popsmith vs. Presto PopLite: Which Popcorn Maker is the Best Choice?

What are the most popular popcorn maker brands?

Some of the most popular popcorn maker brands include:

1. West Bend: West Bend offers popcorn makers with practical designs. The West Bend Stir Crazy popcorn maker is a favorite among many. With its built - in stirrer and electric heating, it provides consistent results and can handle large batches. 

2. Wabash Valley Farms: Known for its classic stovetop popcorn makers. The Whirley Pop is a favorite among many popcorn enthusiasts for its ability to make delicious, theater-style popcorn. The Wabash Valley Farms Whirley Pop Color Changing Popcorn Maker is an upgraded version that has a unique color-changing feature for added safety and fun.

3. Presto: Presto is popular for its affordability and functionality. The Presto PopLite hot air corn popper is a well - known model that is oil - free and easy to use. 

4. Popsmith: The Popsmith popcorn maker is known for its stylish design, often coming in multiple colors and having a contemporary look that can enhance the aesthetic of a modern kitchen. 

So, the 4 best popcorn makers you can buy in 2024：

1. Wabash Valley Farms Whirley Pop Popcorn Maker

2. West Bend Stir Crazy Popcorn Maker

3. Popsmith Popper

4. Presto PopLite Hot Air Corn Popper

The difference between these popcorn machines? Leave it to me!

Part 1: Popcorn Machine Test Summary and User Reviews

Well, my amazing 10 - person team and I have been on a wild popcorn - making adventure, testing out these well - known popcorn machines. And now, I'm super excited to share some of our test results and user reviews with you all. 

#1. Wabash Valley Farms Whirley Pop Popcorn Maker

($40.69 FROM Walmart  - Get Up To 4% Cash Back)

($51 FROM Macy's  - Get Up To 3% Cash Back)

Let's start with the Wabash Valley Farms Whirley Pop Popcorn Maker. This classic stove - top popcorn maker has been a favorite among many popcorn enthusiasts. The first thing that stands out is its ability to create that old - fashioned, theater - style popcorn. The design is quite unique, with a stir - mechanism that ensures each kernel is evenly cooked, resulting in a batch of popcorn that is consistently delicious. The aluminum construction conducts heat well, and the venting system keeps the popcorn nice and crispy. 

However, it's not without its drawbacks. As a stove - top device, it requires a bit more attention and manual effort. You have to constantly stir the kernels to prevent them from burning, and it can be a bit time - consuming. Also, it's completely manual, which means a lot of hand - cranking is involved. 

But if you enjoy the process of making popcorn the old - school way and don't mind the extra effort, this could be a great choice for you.

⭐How about trying and experiencing it?

Review 1:

The Wabash Valley Farms Whirley Pop is great! The popcorn is delicious - rich, buttery, and the right texture. It's a fun traditional way to make popcorn. It's well - built, easy to clean, and I can experiment with different flavors. The only downside is it's manual labor - intensive.

Review 2:

I love my Whirley Pop! The popcorn tastes amazing and has a nice crunch.It gives that old - fashioned feel. It's durable and clean - up is a breeze. However, I have to stir constantly and adjust the heat, which can be a pain. But it's worth it for the great popcorn.

Review 3:

The Whirley Pop Popcorn Maker is good. It makes really tasty popcorn with a consistent flavor. I like the hands - on experience and that it's easy to clean. The capacity is nice for sharing. But it's limited by my stove type and there's some popcorn spillage.

Review 4:

I'm satisfied with the Whirley Pop. The popcorn is delicious and I can customize it. It's well - made and easy to clean. But it's completely manual and I have to be careful with the heat and not over - pop the kernels. Overall, it's good for those who like making popcorn from scratch.

Review 5:

The Wabash Valley Farms Whirley Pop is a nice popcorn maker. The popcorn has a great flavor and texture. It's fun to use and has a traditional charm. The only drawbacks are the manual stirring, potential for popcorn spillage, and no automatic features. But it's still a good choice if you don't mind the extra effort.

#2. West Bend Stir Crazy Popcorn Maker

($33.65 FROM Walmart  - Get Up To 4% Cash Back)

($36.63 FROM Home Depot  - Get Up To 8% Cash Back)

Next up is the West Bend Stir Crazy Popcorn Maker. This electric popcorn maker is a game - changer for those who want a more hands - off approach. The built - in stirrer does a great job of keeping the kernels moving, and it's designed to produce a large amount of popcorn in a relatively short time. The non - stick surface makes cleaning up a breeze, which is a huge plus. The plastic lid can be used as a serving bowl, which is a convenient feature. 

However, it does have some downsides. The butter - melting feature doesn't always work as well as expected, and the popcorn can sometimes become a bit soggy if you're not careful with the butter. Also, compared to some other models, it can be a bit noisy during operation.

⭐How about trying and experiencing it?

Review 1:

The West Bend Stir Crazy is amazing! The stirrer makes the popcorn pop perfectly, and it's so fast. Cleaning is a breeze with the non - stick surface. I can customize the flavors, and the plastic lid as a serving bowl is so convenient. Only downside is the butter - melting isn't always great.

Review 2:

I really like this popcorn maker. It pops kernels evenly every time, and the controls are easy to use. The large capacity is perfect for sharing. It's easy to clean, but it does get a bit noisy. Also, I have to be careful with the butter to avoid sogginess.

Review 3:

The West Bend Stir Crazy is great for making popcorn. It's efficient and gives consistent results. The non - stick makes clean - up easy, and I can use different seasonings. However, it's noisy when it's on, and I'm worried about overheating if I use it for too long.

Review 4:

I've had the West Bend Stir Crazy for a while now. It's really good at popping popcorn quickly with few un - popped kernels. I love that I can clean it easily and make different - flavored popcorn. The only issues are the noise and the cord management. It can get in the way sometimes.

Review 5:

The West Bend Stir Crazy Popcorn Maker is a nice addition to my kitchen. It pops popcorn well and is easy to clean. The butter - melting could be improved, and it's a bit noisy, but overall, it's a good choice if you want a reliable popcorn maker. Just be aware of the potential overheating.

#3. Popsmith Popper

($199 FROM Amazon)

($199 FROM popsmith)

Now, let's take a look at the Popsmith Popper. This one is a real show - stopper in terms of design. It has a sleek and modern look that would fit right in any kitchen. The Popsmith Popper is a stove - top popcorn maker that offers a unique cooking experience. It has a well - designed heating element that distributes heat evenly, resulting in perfectly popped kernels. The fact that it comes in multiple colors gives you the option to match it with your kitchen decor. 

But like the Wabash Valley Farms Whirley Pop, it requires some attention during the cooking process. You need to stir the kernels regularly to ensure they don't burn, and it can be a bit messy when the popcorn starts popping. Also, it's a bit on the expensive side, which might turn off some budget - conscious consumers.

⭐How about trying and experiencing it?

Review 1:

I love my Popsmith Popper! The design is so stylish and it looks great on my counter. The popcorn it makes is delicious - nice texture and flavor. I like the manual control as it gives that traditional feel. However, it can be a bit hard to control the heat, and cleaning it takes some effort. But overall, I'm happy with it.

Review 2:

The Popsmith Popper is really nice. The colors are so cool and it's well - built. The popcorn quality is top - notch - evenly popped and crispy. But it has a small capacity, so if I have a lot of people over, I have to make multiple batches. Also, the price is a bit high, but I guess you pay for the design.

Review 3:

I got the Popsmith Popper and I have to say it's a mixed bag. The design is amazing - it's so modern and the handle is easy to hold. The popcorn tastes great, but I struggle with getting the heat right. Sometimes it burns the kernels. Cleaning is also a pain as there are hard - to - reach areas. However, I still like it for the look and the quality when it works well.

Review 4:

The Popsmith Popper has its pros and cons. I love how it looks in my kitchen - it's a real eye - catcher. The popcorn it makes is good, and I enjoy the hands - on experience. But the capacity is too small for my family. We have to wait for multiple batches. Also, the price is a bit steep compared to other options.

Review 5:

I'm really into the Popsmith Popper. The design is just so sleek and it functions well most of the time. The popcorn has a great texture, and I can customize the doneness. However, the heat control is a challenge, and cleaning it is a hassle. But I don't regret buying it as I love the way it looks and the traditional feel it gives. Just wish it were a bit easier to use and clean.

#4. Presto PopLite Hot Air Corn Popper

($29.69 FROM Walmart  - Get Up To 4% Cash Back)

($29.99 FROM Home Depot  - Get Up To 8% Cash Back)

Finally, we have the Presto Pop Lite Hot Air Corn Popper. This is a great option for those who are looking for a healthy and oil - free way to make popcorn. The hot air popping method means you don't need to add any oil, making the popcorn a bit healthier. It's very easy to use - just pour in the kernels, plug it in, and in a few minutes, you have a batch of fluffy popcorn. The design is simple yet effective, and it's relatively easy to clean. 

However, the taste of the popcorn might not be as rich as the ones made with oil or butter. Also, it doesn't have a butter - melting feature, so if you want to add butter, you'll have to do it after the popcorn is popped.

⭐How about trying and experiencing it?

Review 1:

I really like the Presto Pop Lite. It's so easy to use - just pour in the kernels and it pops quickly. It's also healthy as it doesn't need oil. It's easy to clean too, which is a big plus. However, the flavor is a bit plain without oil, and the capacity is small for my family. But it's still good for a quick snack for myself.

Review 2:

The Presto Pop Lite is great for me. I'm on a diet, and the fact that it's oil - free is perfect. It's super easy to operate, even for a non - tech - savvy person like me. The size is nice and compact, so it fits well in my small kitchen. But I wish it had a better flavor. Adding seasonings after popping isn't the same. Also, I'm a bit worried about how long it will last as it seems a bit flimsy.

Review 3:

I got the Presto Pop Lite and I'm quite satisfied. It's very user - friendly. I just plug it in and wait for the fluffy popcorn. It's easy to clean and store. The only downsides are that the flavor is not as rich as I'd like, and it can't make a large batch at once. But for a single person, it's a great choice.

Review 4:

The Presto Pop Lite is a nice little popcorn maker. I love that it's so easy to use and it's healthy. The quick popping is great when I'm in a rush. However, the texture is a bit different from the oil - popped popcorn I'm used to, and it's not as crispy. Also, the capacity is a bit small if I have guests over. But overall, it's good for my daily snack.

Review 5:

I have the Presto Pop Lite and it has its pros and cons. The good things are that it's easy to use, compact, and easy to clean. It's a healthy option as it doesn't use oil. But the flavor could be better, and it's not very durable. I've had it for a while and it already shows some wear and tear. Also, I have to make multiple batches if I want more popcorn. But it still serves its purpose for a quick and light snack.

So, which one is the best option? Well, it really depends on your personal preferences and needs. If you're a sucker for that traditional, hands - on stove - top experience and don't mind a bit of effort, the Wabash Valley Farms Whirley Pop might be for you. If you want a more convenient, electric option with a large - capacity and easy - to - clean design, the West Bend Stir Crazy could be your pick. The Popsmith Popper is great if you value design and are willing to invest in a stylish popcorn maker that also delivers on performance. And if you're all about health and simplicity, the Presto Pop Lite Hot Air Corn Popper is a solid choice.

#5. Whirley Pop vs. Stir Crazy vs. Popsmith vs. Presto PopLite: Which Popcorn Maker is the Best Choice?

So, what are our favorite popcorn makers?

	West Bend Stir Crazy Popcorn Maker	Wabash Valley Farms Whirley Pop Popcorn Maker	Presto PopLite Hot Air Corn Popper	Popsmith Popper
Our ranking	1	2	3	4
	($33.65 FROM Walmart  - Get Up To 4% Cash Back) ($36.63 FROM Home Depot  - Get Up To 8% Cash Back)	($40.69 FROM Walmart  - Get Up To 4% Cash Back) ($51 FROM Macy's  - Get Up To 3% Cash Back)	($29.69 FROM Walmart  - Get Up To 4% Cash Back) ($29.99 FROM Home Depot  - Get Up To 8% Cash Back)	($199 FROM Amazon) ($199 FROM popsmith)

Editor's review: Wabash Valley Farms Whirley Pop Popcorn Maker vs. West Bend Stir Crazy Popcorn Maker vs. Popsmith Popper vs. Presto PopLite Hot Air Corn Popper: Which One is the Best Option?

My number one choice is West Bend Stir Crazy Popcorn Maker!

($33.65 FROM Walmart  - Get Up To 4% Cash Back)

($36.63 FROM Home Depot  - Get Up To 8% Cash Back)

❤️My first choice of Popcorn Maker is West Bend Stir Crazy. I'd like to share my thoughts on it.

The West Bend Stir Crazy really stands out when it comes to making great - tasting popcorn. The built - in stirrer is a game - changer. It ensures that each kernel gets evenly heated, resulting in a batch of popcorn with very few un - popped kernels. The electric heating is consistent, so I always get that perfect, fluffy texture every time. It's like having a professional popcorn - making machine right in my kitchen!

This popcorn maker is so easy to use. I just have to plug it in, add the kernels and a bit of oil if I want, and turn it on. The stirrer does all the hard work, and I don't have to worry about constantly monitoring or stirring it myself. The plastic lid that doubles as a serving bowl is a brilliant idea. It makes it so convenient to serve the popcorn right away without having to transfer it to another container. It's perfect for movie nights or when I have friends over.

Cleaning up after making popcorn is never fun, but with the West Bend Stir Crazy, it's not a chore. The non - stick surface is a godsend. I can simply wipe it clean with a damp cloth, and it's as good as new. Even the butter - melting feature, which I love because it adds that extra flavor, is easy to clean. It saves me so much time and effort compared to other appliances that are a pain to clean.

I really appreciate the fact that this popcorn maker gives me consistent results. No matter how many times I use it, I know I'm going to get a delicious batch of popcorn. The combination of the electric heating and the stirrer means that I don't have to worry about uneven popping or inconsistent flavors. It's reliable, and that's something I value a lot.

I love that I can customize the taste of the popcorn according to my mood. Whether I want a classic buttery flavor or something a bit more adventurous like adding different seasonings, the West Bend Stir Crazy allows me to do that. The fact that it heats evenly means that the seasonings are distributed well, giving me a well - flavored batch of popcorn every time.

The design of the West Bend Stir Crazy is not only practical but also looks good in my kitchen. It has a modern and appliance - like look that doesn't look out of place. The plastic parts are well - made and seem durable, which gives me the confidence that it will last for a long time. It's a great addition to my kitchen appliances collection.

All in all, the West Bend Stir Crazy Popcorn Maker has become my go - to for making delicious popcorn. It checks all the boxes for me - great performance, ease of use, easy cleaning, consistent results, and a nice design. 

So, if you haven't tried West Bend yet, I highly recommend giving it a go. You might just fall in love with it like I did!

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Part 2: Popcorn Machine Comparison Details

Of course as a reviewer, I would like to share with you more detailed comparison details about these popcorn poppers. Let's dive into the performance, functionality, taste, texture, appearance, ease of use, and price and value for money of each one.

#1. Whirley Pop vs. Stir Crazy vs. Popsmith vs. Presto PopLite: Performance and Functionality

First, let's take a look at the ranking of popcorn makers in terms of performance and functionality:

Here is a ranking of the four products in terms of performance and functionality:

1. West Bend Stir Crazy Popcorn Maker

   Performance: The built-in stirrer ensures high popcorn efficiency with very few un-popped kernels. It can handle large batches quickly and the electric heating provides consistent results. The non-stick surface makes cleaning relatively easy.

   Functionality: The plastic lid can be used as a serving bowl, which is convenient. It has a good capacity for making popcorn for a group. The butter-melting feature, although not always perfect, can add to the flavor.

   Overall, it offers a great combination of performance and functionality for those who want an electric popcorn maker with high capacity and ease of use.

2. Presto PopLite Hot Air Corn Popper

   Performance: The hot air popping method is efficient and produces fluffy popcorn with a relatively low percentage of un-popped kernels. It is oil-free, making it a healthier option.

   Functionality: It is very easy to use - just pour in the kernels and plug it in. Cleaning is also simple as there is no oil involved. However, it has a smaller capacity compared to some other models.

   Overall, it's a great choice for those looking for a simple, healthy, and low-maintenance popcorn maker.

3. Wabash Valley Farms Whirley Pop Popcorn Maker

   Performance: Can produce delicious popcorn with a unique stir-mechanism that helps in even popping. However, being a stove-top model, it requires more user attention and manual effort.

   Functionality: It has a good capacity and the ability to add seasonings. Cleaning is relatively easy, but it may not be as convenient as the electric models.

   Overall, it offers a traditional popcorn-making experience with good results but may not be as user-friendly as the top two.

4. Popsmith Popper

   Performance: As a stove-top popcorn maker, it requires regular stirring and careful heat control. The popcorn efficiency may vary depending on the user's skill.

   Functionality: It comes in multiple colors and has a stylish design. However, it can be a bit on the expensive side and may not offer as many practical features as the other models.

   Overall, it's a good option for those who value design and are willing to put in more effort for popcorn-making.

Second, let's take a look at the comparison details:

Popcorn Efficiency

Wabash Valley Farms Whirley Pop: The stir - mechanism helps evenly distribute heat, but efficiency may vary based on user skill in heat and stirring.

West Bend Stir Crazy: The built - in stirrer ensures high and consistent popcorn - popping efficiency with few un - popped kernels.

Popsmith Popper: User - controlled variables mean its efficiency may not be as consistent as the West Bend Stir Crazy.

Presto Pop Lite: The hot air method can be efficient with the right amount of kernels, but may not be as fast as other models.

Capacity

Wabash Valley Farms Whirley Pop: Suitable for family - sized or small - group servings with a decent capacity.

West Bend Stir Crazy: Can produce a large amount of popcorn, great for larger groups.

Popsmith Popper: Has a capacity similar to the Whirley Pop, suitable for sharing.

Presto Pop Lite: Has a smaller capacity, more suitable for individual or small - group servings.

Heating Method

Wabash Valley Farms Whirley Pop: Stove - top, heat is transferred from the burner through the pot to the kernels and oil, and the user controls the heat. The stir - mechanism ensures even heat exposure.

West Bend Stir Crazy: Electric with a built - in heating element that heats the non - stick surface where the kernels and oil are placed, and the stirrer ensures even heating.

Popsmith Popper: Stove - top, relying on stove heat, and the pot's design and heat conduction are crucial. The user must adjust heat carefully.

Presto Pop Lite: Uses a hot air - based method where hot air is blown through the container with the kernels, and it doesn't require oil.

Consistency

Wabash Valley Farms Whirley Pop: With proper technique, it can produce relatively consistent results, but as a manual stove - top device, there may be some variations due to user heat and stirring control.

West Bend Stir Crazy: The electric nature and built - in stirrer lead to more consistent results as long as the right ingredients are used.

Popsmith Popper: Similar to the Whirley Pop, consistency can be affected by user handling of stove - top heat.

Presto Pop Lite: The hot air method can provide consistency, but the texture and flavor may be different from models using oil. It may not be as consistent as the West Bend Stir Crazy in overall quality.

#2. Whirley Pop vs. Stir Crazy vs. Popsmith vs. Presto PopLite: Taste and Texture of Popcorn

Wabash Valley Farms Whirley Pop: The Whirley Pop often produces popcorn with a rich, traditional flavor. The even heating and stirring mechanism result in a good balance of crunch and chewiness. The popcorn can take on the flavor of added seasonings or butter well, giving a delicious and satisfying texture.

West Bend Stir Crazy: This popcorn maker produces popcorn that is consistently crispy and fluffy. The electric stirrer keeps the kernels moving, preventing them from sticking or burning, and this leads to a more uniform texture. There are rarely unpopped kernels, making for a great snacking experience. The taste can be customized with different oils and seasonings, making it a versatile option.

Popsmith Popper: The Popsmith Popper creates popcorn with a taste and texture similar to traditional theater popcorn. While it may require a bit more attention during the popping process, it can produce popcorn with a good balance of flavor and a light, crispy texture.

Presto Pop Lite: The Presto PopLite produces popcorn with a lighter taste and texture due to the hot air popping method. While it is a healthier option, it may lack the rich flavor and crunch of the other popcorn makers. However, it can still be enjoyable with added seasonings.

#3. Whirley Pop vs. Stir Crazy vs. Popsmith vs. Presto PopLite: Appearance and Design

Wabash Valley Farms Whirley Pop: Has a classic and traditional look, is made of aluminum and nylon gears, has a relatively compact size for a stove - top device, and may not be as easy to store or as portable as hot air models.

West Bend Stir Crazy: Has a more modern and appliance - like look, is made of plastic with a non - stick heating surface, is a relatively large electric maker that may take up more counter space, and is not very portable.

Popsmith Popper: Has a stylish and eye - catching design, may come in different colors, is likely made of high - quality materials, is a stove - top device with similar portability to the Whirley Pop.

Presto Pop Lite: Has a simple and clean design, is made mainly of plastic, is lightweight and easy to handle, is one of the more portable options as it is smaller and doesn't need a separate heat source.

#4. Whirley Pop vs. Stir Crazy vs. Popsmith vs. Presto PopLite: Ease of Use

Wabash Valley Farms Whirley Pop: As a stove - top maker, it requires the user to control heat and stir kernels, which may not be as easy for beginners. Cleaning is relatively easy but may require more effort than non - stick models. It has basic safety features but gets hot during use.

West Bend Stir Crazy: Is easy to set up, with a built - in stirrer that makes popcorn - making easy. The non - stick surface makes cleaning easy, and it has safety features like overheat protection.

Popsmith Popper: Similar to other stove - top models, it requires heat control and stirring. Cleaning may be similar to the Whirley Pop, and it has general stove - top safety considerations.

Presto Pop Lite: Is very easy to use - just pour kernels, plug it in, and wait. It's easy to clean as there's no oil, and it has safety features like a cool - touch exterior and automatic shut - off.

#5. Whirley Pop vs. Stir Crazy vs. Popsmith vs. Presto PopLite: Price and Value for Money

Wabash Valley Farms Whirley Pop: Is moderately priced, offers a good balance of quality and price with a traditional method, but may not have as many advanced features.

West Bend Stir Crazy: Is in the mid - to - upper price range, reflects its electric functionality and features. It provides convenience and consistent results but may be expensive for some.

Popsmith Popper: Can be on the higher end due to its stylish design and materials. It may be a good choice for those who value design but not for those looking for a lower price and more functionality.

Presto Pop Lite: Is often more affordable, offers a simple and cost - effective way to make popcorn, and is a good choice for those on a budget or preferring a healthy, oil - free option.

Part 3: Conclusion

My number one choice is West Bend Stir Crazy Popcorn Maker!

($33.65 FROM Walmart  - Get Up To 4% Cash Back)

($36.63 FROM Home Depot  - Get Up To 8% Cash Back)

❤️My first choice of Popcorn Maker is West Bend Stir Crazy.

In conclusion, the West Bend Stir Crazy is an electric popcorn maker with a built-in stirrer, offering high efficiency, large capacity, and easy cleaning. The Presto Pop Lite is a hot air popper that is healthy, easy to use, and has a smaller capacity. The Whirley Pop is a stove-top model with a unique stir-mechanism, providing a traditional popcorn-making experience. The Popsmith Popper is a stove-top device with a stylish design but may be more expensive and require more effort. Each popcorn maker has its own strengths and weaknesses, and the choice depends on the user's specific needs and preferences.

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