Popcorn nights at home hit different when you’ve got the right gear. I’ve tried my fair share of popcorn gadgets over the years — from microwave bowls that always leave a burnt smell to air poppers that sound like a jet engine — and most of them were a letdown. That’s exactly why I gave the Popsmith Popper a shot. Spoiler alert: this thing actually delivers, and I’m not saying that lightly.
If you’re on the hunt for the perfect stovetop popper, let me walk you through exactly what makes the Popsmith Popper stand out — and why so many people (including me) are raving about it.
What is the Popsmith Popper?
The Popsmith Popper is a stovetop popcorn maker designed to give you perfect, evenly popped popcorn every single time. It’s not like the bulky air poppers you probably grew up with. Instead, it’s inspired by the old-school method of popping corn in a wok — constant motion, even heat, and total control. That combo changes everything.
Every part of the Popsmith Popper is built to make sure no kernel gets left behind. Whether you’re popping plain kernels, buttery classics, or fancy heirloom popcorn, this popper handles them all like a pro. It’s also designed to work on gas, electric, and induction stovetops, so you don’t need to worry about compatibility.
Want to know something cool? The Popsmith Popper started as a crowdfunded project and crushed its goal. If you’re curious, you can still check out the original Popsmith Popper Kickstarter campaign to see how it all began. It’s pretty wild to see how much attention it got right out of the gate.
Why the Popsmith Popper is Worth It
Let’s talk about what makes the Popsmith Popper more than just another kitchen gadget. First off, the design isn’t just for show — every detail actually serves a purpose. The built-in stir mechanism keeps the kernels moving the whole time they’re cooking, so you’re not stuck with half-popped or burnt pieces. And the clear lid? It’s not just for looks. You get to watch your popcorn transform in real time without losing heat.
It’s the kind of product you can tell was designed by someone who actually loves popcorn. There’s no unnecessary fluff — just smart features that make a real difference. And when you’re spending money on a piece of gear like this, you want to know it’ll hold up. Trust me, it does. The materials feel solid in your hands, and it’s obvious they didn’t cut corners.
It’s also worth mentioning that the Popsmith Popper didn’t just appear out of nowhere. The company behind it went through the trenches, raising over $1.5 million to bring this popper to life. You can read more about that whole process in this Inc. article covering Popsmith’s startup journey. It’s a great peek behind the curtain if you’re into the business side of things.
How to Use the Popsmith Popper (Step-by-Step)
One of my favorite things about the Popsmith Popper is how easy it is to use. Even if you’ve never made stovetop popcorn before, you’ll feel like a pro on your first try. Here’s how I do it — and a couple of tips to make sure you get the best results.
Step 1: Heat Your Oil
Choose an oil with a high smoke point. Coconut oil gives the popcorn a slightly sweet flavor, but canola or avocado oil works great too. Pour just enough to coat the bottom of the Popsmith Popper, then heat it up until you see a slight shimmer.
Step 2: Add Kernels
Once the oil’s ready, toss in your kernels. Don’t overdo it — too many kernels can clog the stir mechanism. A quarter cup usually does the trick for me.
Step 3: Keep It Moving
This is where the Popsmith Popper shines. As soon as the kernels hit the oil, start turning the handle. That constant motion keeps the heat evenly distributed and makes sure every kernel pops.
Step 4: Watch Through the Lid
The clear lid is surprisingly satisfying to watch. You can see the kernels pop and know exactly when to pull the popper off the heat — usually when you hear about 2 seconds between pops.
Step 5: Season and Enjoy
Dump the popcorn into a big bowl, add your favorite toppings, and dig in. Cleanup’s easy too — a quick wipe while the popper’s still warm, and you’re done.
How the Popsmith Popper Compares to Other Popcorn Makers
I’ve used plenty of popcorn makers over the years — some good, some not so much. The Popsmith Popper hits the sweet spot between old-school simplicity and modern convenience. Here’s how it stacks up.
- Air Poppers: Air poppers are fast, but they dry out the popcorn. The Popsmith Popper gives you that perfect crunch with way better flavor.
- Microwave Popcorn Bags: Microwave popcorn is convenient, but you’re stuck with whatever chemicals they pack in there. With the Popsmith Popper, you control everything — oil, kernels, seasonings.
- Cheap Stovetop Poppers: I’ve used flimsy stovetop poppers that warped after a few uses. The Popsmith Popper feels solid, like something you’ll pass down to your kids.
What Customers Are Saying About the Popsmith Popper
I’m not the only one who thinks this popper’s a game-changer. There’s a whole thread over on Reddit where someone shared their honest thoughts, and it’s refreshing to see such a positive take. You can check out the full Popsmith Popper review on Reddit to see what other popcorn fans are saying.
People love the even popping, the easy cleanup, and the fact that it just works — no fiddling, no frustration. And honestly? That’s rare with kitchen gadgets these days.
Final Thoughts on the Popsmith Popper
If you’re serious about popcorn — and I mean real popcorn, not that microwaved stuff — the Popsmith Popper is absolutely worth it. It’s easy to use, built to last, and delivers some of the best popcorn you’ll ever make at home.
Whether you’re hosting a movie night or just need a quick snack, the Popsmith Popper makes it fun. Plus, knowing that it started from such a successful crowdfunding campaign and that so many other popcorn lovers swear by it just adds to the appeal.
If you’re ready to upgrade your popcorn game, give the Popsmith Popper a shot. I think you’ll see why people are ditching air poppers and microwave bags for good.
