Introduction
There’s something about the smell of freshly popped popcorn that instantly takes me back to movie nights as a kid. But let’s be honest—microwave popcorn just doesn’t hit the same as that rich, buttery, cinema-style popcorn. That’s why I started looking for a high-quality stovetop popcorn maker, and that’s when I came across Popsmith Popper.
This premium stovetop popcorn popper promises perfectly popped kernels with a movie-theater taste, all in the comfort of your own home. But is it really worth the hype? I put it to the test, and in this in-depth Popsmith Popper review, I’ll share everything you need to know before buying it.
What is the Popsmith Popper?
The Popsmith Popper is a stovetop popcorn maker designed for home use. Unlike air poppers or microwave bags, this popper lets you control the heat, oil, and seasonings, so you get fresh, fluffy, and flavorful popcorn every time.
Key Highlights:
✔ Made of stainless steel for durability
✔ Works on all stovetops (gas, electric, induction)
✔ 6-quart capacity (makes plenty of popcorn)
✔ Patented stirring system to prevent burning
✔ Dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning
Popsmith was founded by popcorn enthusiasts Tal Moore and Dave Strickland, who wanted to create a durable, efficient, and beautifully designed popcorn maker that stands out from traditional options. Their mission is to bring high-quality popcorn-making into every home, enhancing both the taste and experience of popping fresh kernels.
The Popsmith Popper has a hand-crank mechanism that stirs kernels continuously, preventing them from sticking to the bottom and ensuring even popping. It’s designed for all stovetops, including gas, electric, and induction, making it versatile for any kitchen setup.
Key Features of the Popsmith Popper
1. Design and Build
The first thing you’ll notice about the Popsmith Popper is its sleek and sturdy design. Unlike aluminum popcorn makers that can dent easily, this popper is made from high-quality stainless steel.
🔹 Multi-clad metal bottom ensures even heat distribution
🔹 Patented stirring handle prevents burning and ensures every kernel pops
🔹 Butter-yellow color (with other options available) for a retro aesthetic
The spinning handle mechanism is what makes this popper stand out. As you crank it, the stirring rods inside keep the kernels moving, ensuring no burning, no sticking, and no half-popped duds.
2. Compatibility with Different Stovetops
One big advantage of the Popsmith Popper is its versatility. Whether you have a gas stove, electric coil, or even an induction cooktop, this popper works seamlessly on all types of stovetops.
✔ Works on Gas, Electric, and Induction Stoves
✔ Multi-layer base ensures even heating
✔ Heavier than aluminum poppers, which prevents warping over time
3. Capacity: How Much Popcorn Can It Make?
The Popsmith Popper can hold up to 6 quarts of popcorn in one batch. That’s enough for about 4–6 people, making it perfect for family movie nights, parties, or snacking all day.
💡 For reference:
- 6 quarts = 24 cups of popcorn
- A standard microwave popcorn bag makes about 10 cups
- That’s over twice the amount of popcorn you’d get from a typical bag!
4. Ease of Cleaning
Nobody wants to deal with a messy, hard-to-clean appliance. Thankfully, the Popsmith Popper is dishwasher-safe, making cleanup super easy.
✔ The stainless steel pot can be placed in the dishwasher
✔ The handle and lid detach easily for hand washing
✔ No sticky residue like you’d get with microwave bags
Unboxing the Popsmith Popper: First Impressions
The unboxing experience felt premium. The popper comes in a bright yellow “Let’s Pop!” box, which makes it feel special right away.
What’s in the Box?
✔ The Popsmith Popper (stainless steel with a built-in stirring mechanism)
✔ Pre-measured popcorn kits (classic butter and kettle corn flavors)
✔ User Manual with cooking tips
The first thing I noticed was how solid and well-built the popper felt. The handle has a smooth, easy-turning crank, and the lid fits securely without being too tight.
Performance and User Experience
How to Use the Popsmith Popper
Using the Popsmith Popper is simple and fun:
1️⃣ Add oil and popcorn kernels to the pot
2️⃣ Set the stove to medium heat
3️⃣ Turn the crank continuously as the kernels heat up
4️⃣ Listen for the popping sound (it takes about 2 minutes)
5️⃣ Remove from heat and enjoy fresh, fluffy popcorn!
Taste Test: Does It Deliver That Movie-Theater Quality?
I tried both the classic butter flavor and the kettle corn popcorn kits from Popsmith. Here’s what I found:
🍿 Classic Butter: Buttery, rich, and slightly salty—just like at the movies.
🍿 Kettle Corn: Lightly sweet, crispy, and perfectly balanced.
The biggest difference from microwave popcorn? Better texture, more flavor, and zero artificial aftertaste.
Comparison: How Does Popsmith Popper Stack Up?
| Feature | Popsmith Popper | Whirley Pop | Microwave Popcorn |
| Material | Stainless Steel | Aluminum | Plastic/Paper |
| Heating Method | Stovetop | Stovetop | Microwave |
| Popping Time | ~2 Minutes | ~3 Minutes | ~2 Minutes |
| Popcorn Quality | Movie-Theater | Good | Okay |
| Durability | High | Medium | Low |
💡 Verdict: If you want the best stovetop popper, Popsmith wins in build quality, ease of use, and popcorn taste.
Customer Reviews and Testimonials
Online reviews for the Popsmith Popper are overwhelmingly positive.
⭐ “This is hands-down the best stovetop popcorn maker I’ve ever used!”
⭐ “Super easy to use, and the popcorn is better than movie theater quality.”
⭐ “Love the stainless steel build. No burnt kernels!”
The only complaints I found were:
- It’s a bit pricey
- The handle can get warm if left on high heat too long
Pricing and Where to Buy
💰 Price: Around $199
📍 Where to Buy:
✔ Popsmith Official Website
✔ Amazon, Williams-Sonoma, Costco
Is It Worth the Price?
👉 If you love perfect popcorn and want a sturdy, long-lasting popper, then yes, it’s 100% worth it.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
✅ High-quality stainless steel design
✅ Works on all stovetops
✅ Even heating with no burnt kernels
✅ Super easy to clean
Cons:
❌ Higher price than other poppers
❌ Handle can get warm if used on high heat
Final Verdict: Should You Buy the Popsmith Popper?
If you’re serious about popcorn, the Popsmith Popper is a must-have. It delivers crispy, flavorful popcorn with a rich buttery taste that’s way better than anything you’d get from a microwave bag. In fact, its quality and performance have even earned it a spot on Oprah’s Favorite Things 2024—a testament to how much people love it!
💡 Final Score: 9.5/10
🎥 Perfect for: Movie lovers, families, and popcorn addicts
FAQs
💬 Is Popsmith Popper dishwasher safe?
Yes! The stainless steel pot is completely dishwasher-safe.
💬 Can I use it on an induction cooktop?
Absolutely. It’s induction-compatible.
💬 How long does it take to pop a batch?
About 2 minutes.
💬 Is it worth the price?
Yes, especially if you love high-quality popcorn at home.
Ready to level up your popcorn game? The Popsmith Popper won’t disappoint! 🍿