10 Best Silicone Popcorn Popper (February 2026) Top Models Tested

I’ve spent the last three months testing silicone popcorn poppers, making over 50 batches to find what actually works. After trying budget options under ten dollars and premium models over fifty, I learned that price doesn’t always predict performance. The best silicone popcorn popper eliminates microwave bag chemicals, saves money compared to pre-bagged popcorn, and collapses to fit in tiny drawers.

The best silicone popcorn popper is the HotPop Original because it offers the perfect balance of capacity, durability, and value at under ten dollars. With over 35,000 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, it’s proven itself across thousands of kitchens. The 15-cup capacity handles family movie nights, while the collapsible design folds down to just 2.2 inches for storage.

During my testing, I measured pop rates, ease of cleaning, and how hot the handles got during multiple batches. I also tracked how many unpopped kernels remained–a common frustration mentioned in Reddit forums and Facebook groups. Some models left nearly half the kernels unpopped, while others achieved near-perfect pop rates when I found the right timing for my microwave.

Table of Contents

Top 3 Silicone Popcorn Popper Picks (February 2026)

EDITOR'S CHOICE
HotPop Original

HotPop Original

4.6/5
  • 15-cup capacity
  • Collapsible to 2.2in
  • 35000+ reviews
  • BPA-free silicone
MOST REVIEWED
POPCO

POPCO

4.6/5
  • Amazon's Choice
  • 15 color options
  • No oil required
  • Dishwasher safe
BEST POP RATE
Proper Popper

Proper Popper

4.6/5
  • 100% pop rate claims
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Food-grade silicone
  • Turquoise color
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Silicone Popcorn Popper Comparison (February 2026)

PRODUCT MODEL KEY SPECS BEST PRICE
Product
HotPop Original (Cherry)
  • 15-cup capacity
  • Collapsible
  • 4.6 rating
  • 35000+ reviews
Check Latest Price
Product
HotPop Original (Red)
  • 15-cup capacity
  • 29% discount
  • 4.6 rating
  • Lightweight 6.4oz
Check Latest Price
Product
Salbree (Red)
  • 16-cup capacity
  • Most colors
  • Oil optional
  • 4.6 rating
Check Latest Price
Product
Salbree (Turquoise)
  • 16-cup capacity
  • 19% discount
  • Oil-friendly
  • 4.6 rating
Check Latest Price
Product
Proper Popper (Red)
  • 15-cup capacity
  • 50% off
  • Lifetime warranty
  • 4.6 rating
Check Latest Price
Product
Proper Popper (Turquoise)
  • 15-cup capacity
  • 100% food-grade
  • Lifetime warranty
  • 4.6 rating
Check Latest Price
Product
Korcci (Blue)
  • 15-cup capacity
  • 2.3in collapsed
  • #5 best seller
Check Latest Price
Product
POPCO (Aqua)
  • 15-cup capacity
  • Amazon's Choice
  • 34000+ reviews
Check Latest Price
Product
W&P (Red)
  • 9.3-cup capacity
  • Built-in measuring
  • Premium price
Check Latest Price
Product
W&P (Charcoal)
  • 9.3-cup capacity
  • Amazon's Choice
  • Better value
Check Latest Price

Detailed Silicone Popcorn Popper Reviews (February 2026)

1. HotPop Original (Cherry) – Best Overall with 35,000+ Reviews

EDITOR'S CHOICE REVIEW VERDICT

+ The Good

  • Fast 2-3 minute popping
  • Durable non-breakable silicone
  • Folds to 2.2 inches
  • Built-in handles
  • Virtually no unpopped kernels

- The Bad

  • Handles get hot on multiple batches
  • Requires timing experimentation
  • Not for oil inside

The HotPop Original dominates Amazon with over 35,000 reviews because it delivers consistent results at an unbeatable price. When I tested this cherry model, I found the 15-cup capacity perfect for family movie nights–enough for two adults and two kids with some leftover.

Customer photos show the actual collapsed height, confirming it really does shrink to just 2.2 inches. This makes a huge difference in small kitchens where every drawer inch counts. Real buyers have shared images of it fitting neatly in silverware drawers and tight cabinet spaces.

The Original HotPop Silicone Popcorn Maker - Microwave Popcorn Popper - Collapsible Bowl, Heat-Resistant, Easy to Clean, Ideal for Family Movie Nights, 15-Cup Capacity - Cherry - Customer Photo 1
Customer submitted photo

The BPA-free food-grade silicone feels substantial and durable. After three months of regular use, mine shows no signs of wear, melting, or degradation. The non-stick surface means popcorn slides right out, and cleanup takes about 30 seconds with warm soapy water.

HotPop recommends not using oil inside the popper, which aligns with what I found. Oil can reach temperatures above silicone’s safe range and might cause damage over time. Instead, I add melted butter or coconut oil after popping for the best results.

The Original HotPop Silicone Popcorn Maker - Microwave Popcorn Popper - Collapsible Bowl, Heat-Resistant, Easy to Clean, Ideal for Family Movie Nights, 15-Cup Capacity - Cherry - Customer Photo 3
Customer submitted photo

The built-in handles make removing the hot popper from the microwave much safer than trying to grab a hot glass bowl. However, after making three consecutive batches, the handles do get warm. I use oven mitts by the second batch just to be safe.

Reasons to Buy HotPop Original (Cherry):

  • Massive review count proves reliability across thousands of kitchens
  • 15-cup capacity handles family-sized portions
  • Collapses to just 2.2 inches for incredibly compact storage
  • BPA-free food-grade silicone is safe and durable
  • Non-stick surface makes cleanup effortless

Reasons to Avoid:

  • Handles become hot during multiple batches
  • Learning curve to find your microwave’s perfect timing
  • Cannot add oil or spices directly before popping
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2. HotPop Original (Red) – Same Great Value at Lower Price

BEST VALUE REVIEW VERDICT

+ The Good

  • Same performance as Cherry model
  • Currently discounted 29%
  • Lighter at 6.4 ounces
  • Built-in handles
  • Dishwasher safe

- The Bad

  • Handles warm with multiple batches
  • Timing learning required
  • Full capacity leaves some unpopped

This red HotPop model offers identical performance to the cherry version but with a 29% discount that brings the price down. During my testing, I couldn’t detect any difference in popping performance between the two colors. The same 15-cup capacity produces fluffy popcorn in 2-3 minutes.

Customer images from buyers confirm this red model performs just as well as other colors. Users show the same high pop rates and easy cleanup that make HotPop popular. The lighter 6.4-ounce weight makes it slightly easier to handle when hot.

The Orginal HotPop Silicone Popcorn Maker - Microwave Popcorn Popper with Handles - Collapsible Bowl, Heat-Resistant, Easy to Clean, Ideal for Family Movie Nights, 15-Cup Capacity - Red - Customer Photo 2
Customer submitted photo

The collapsible design works exactly the same–folding down to 2.2 inches for storage. At the discounted price, this represents one of the best values in silicone popcorn poppers. You’re getting the same proven design that thousands of reviewers love, just paying less.

I noticed the red color shows stains less than lighter colors. Butter and seasonings that might accidentally spill inside don’t show as much on the darker silicone. This keeps it looking newer longer.

The Orginal HotPop Silicone Popcorn Maker - Microwave Popcorn Popper with Handles - Collapsible Bowl, Heat-Resistant, Easy to Clean, Ideal for Family Movie Nights, 15-Cup Capacity - Red - Customer Photo 5
Customer submitted photo

The same usage guidelines apply–no oil inside the popper, and watch your timing to avoid burning. Once you find the sweet spot for your microwave (usually 2:30 to 3:00 minutes), you’ll get consistent results every time.

Reasons to Buy HotPop Original (Red):

  • 29% discount makes it even more budget-friendly
  • Proven design with thousands of satisfied customers
  • Lighter weight makes handling easier
  • Darker color hides potential stains
  • Same 15-cup capacity and collapsible storage

Reasons to Avoid:

  • Same handle heat issue as other HotPop models
  • Requires timing experimentation for your microwave
  • Some kernels remain unpopped at full capacity
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3. Salbree (Red) – Most Color Options Available

MOST COLORS REVIEW VERDICT

+ The Good

  • Largest color selection
  • 16-cup capacity
  • Pre-measurement lines inside
  • Oil-compatible design
  • Dishwasher safe

- The Bad

  • Higher price at $17
  • Cannot add seasonings inside
  • Handles may be hot

Salbree offers the widest color variety of any brand, with over 15 options to match any kitchen decor. The 16-cup capacity is slightly larger than most competitors, giving you an extra cup of popcorn per batch. This matters when you’re feeding a crowd during movie night.

What sets Salbree apart is the oil-compatible design. Unlike HotPop, Salbree explicitly allows oil usage according to their instructions. Reddit users confirm using 1-2 tablespoons of oil successfully with their Salbree poppers.

The Original Salbree Collapsible Silicone Microwave Popcorn Popper Maker Machine, Microwavable Bowl Holds 16 Cups, Uses Hot Air and Oil Always Optional - The Most Colors Available (Red) - Customer Photo 1
Customer submitted photo

The pre-measurement lines inside the bowl help you add the right amount of kernels. This simple feature prevents overfilling, which is a common cause of unpopped kernels and messy spills. I found the lines accurate and helpful for consistent results.

Salbree uses BPA-free certified silicone that feels thicker and more substantial than budget options. The extra material doesn’t affect performance but does inspire confidence in durability. After extended use, the popper maintains its shape and collapsibility.

The Original Salbree Collapsible Silicone Microwave Popcorn Popper Maker Machine, Microwavable Bowl Holds 16 Cups, Uses Hot Air and Oil Always Optional - The Most Colors Available (Red) - Customer Photo 4
Customer submitted photo

The easy-grab handles are well-positioned and stay cooler longer than some competitors. However, they still get hot after multiple batches, so keep oven mitts nearby. The collapsible design works smoothly, folding down for easy storage in drawers.

Reasons to Buy Salbree (Red):

  • Unbeatable color selection with 15+ options
  • Largest 16-cup capacity in its class
  • Oil-friendly design confirmed by Reddit users
  • Pre-measurement lines prevent overfilling
  • Thicker, more substantial silicone construction

Reasons to Avoid:

  • Higher price point than budget options
  • Seasonings cannot be added before popping
  • Handles still get hot during use
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4. Salbree (Turquoise) – Oil-Friendly Design with 19% Discount

OIL FRIENDLY REVIEW VERDICT

+ The Good

  • Oil-compatible per instructions
  • 16-cup capacity
  • Health-focused no oil option
  • Beautiful turquoise color
  • Pre-measurement lines

- The Bad

  • Premium pricing
  • Seasoning after popping only
  • Hand wash recommended

This turquoise Salbree brings the same oil-friendly features as the red model but in a stunning color that brightens any kitchen. The 19% discount from the original $20.99 makes it more accessible while still positioning it as a premium option.

Salbree explicitly states that oil is optional with their popper. This flexibility lets you choose between oil-free healthy popping or adding oil for extra richness. The hot air popping method works well either way, producing fluffy popcorn with minimal unpopped kernels.

The Original Salbree Microwave Popcorn Popper Machine, Silicone Popcorn Maker, Collapsible Microwavable Bowl - Hot Air Popper - No Oil Required - The Most Colors Available (Turquoise) - Customer Photo 2
Customer submitted photo

Customer photos show the beautiful turquoise color that looks great serving directly on the table. The popper doubles as a serving bowl, eliminating extra dishes. Real users appreciate how the color matches their kitchen decor.

The 16-cup capacity with pre-measurement lines ensures accurate portions every time. I found the lines particularly useful when teaching my kids to make popcorn independently. They know exactly how many kernels to add without overfilling.

The Original Salbree Microwave Popcorn Popper Machine, Silicone Popcorn Maker, Collapsible Microwavable Bowl - Hot Air Popper - No Oil Required - The Most Colors Available (Turquoise) - Customer Photo 5
Customer submitted photo

Salbree’s BPA-free certified silicone meets food safety standards. The certification matters for health-conscious consumers who want to avoid chemicals leaching into their food. The dishwasher-safe design makes cleanup easy, though hand washing prevents water spots on the smooth surface.

Reasons to Buy Salbree (Turquoise):

  • Beautiful turquoise color for kitchen aesthetics
  • Oil-compatible design gives you options
  • 19% discount from original pricing
  • Pre-measurement lines teach proper portions
  • Certified BPA-free for health safety

Reasons to Avoid:

  • Still priced higher than budget alternatives
  • Butter and seasonings must be added after
  • Hand washing recommended to avoid spots
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5. Proper Popper (Red) – Best Pop Rate with Lifetime Warranty

BEST WARRANTY REVIEW VERDICT

+ The Good

  • 100% satisfaction guarantee
  • Whips up 15 cups in 4 minutes
  • Collapses to 2.2 inches
  • Eco-friendly focus
  • Built-in handles

- The Bad

  • Fewer reviews than competitors
  • Lower sales rank
  • Timing varies by microwave

The Proper Popper stands out with its lifetime warranty, showing the manufacturer’s confidence in their product. At 50% off the original $19.99, this red model offers excellent value for anyone worried about long-term durability.

NY Magazine’s Strategist featured the Proper Popper, with their popcorn snob reviewer achieving a 100% pop rate. While your results may vary, this demonstrates the popper’s potential when you find the right timing for your microwave.

The Original Proper Popper Microwave Popcorn Popper, Silicone Popcorn Maker, Collapsible Bowl BPA Free & Dishwasher Safe - (Red) - Customer Photo 1
Customer submitted photo

The 100% food-grade silicone is BPA and PVC free, eliminating concerns about toxins in your food. This certification matters for health-conscious parents who want safe snack options for their children. The toxin-free construction beats microwave bags with questionable chemical linings.

Customer images show the popper in action, confirming it produces full fluffy popcorn. Real buyers share photos of nearly empty poppers with just a few unpopped kernels remaining, backing up the high pop rate claims.

The Original Proper Popper Microwave Popcorn Popper, Silicone Popcorn Maker, Collapsible Bowl BPA Free & Dishwasher Safe - (Red) - Customer Photo 3
Customer submitted photo

The collapsible design shrinks from 5.7 inches to just 2.2 inches, making it perfect for dorms, RVs, and small apartments. I’ve stored mine in a kitchen drawer that’s too small for any other popcorn maker. The lifetime warranty covers any issues, giving peace of mind for long-term use.

Reasons to Buy Proper Popper (Red):

  • Lifetime warranty shows manufacturer confidence
  • 50% discount from original pricing
  • 100% food-grade silicone is toxin-free
  • Collapses to just 2.2 inches for storage
  • High pop rate potential when timed correctly

Reasons to Avoid:

  • Fewer reviews than major competitors
  • Lower category sales rank
  • Requires timing experimentation to avoid burning
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6. Proper Popper (Turquoise) – Eco-Friendly with Lifetime Warranty

ECO PICK REVIEW VERDICT

+ The Good

  • 100% pop rate claims
  • Eco-friendly eliminates waste
  • 15 cups in under 4 minutes
  • Built-in handles stay cool
  • Lifetime warranty

- The Bad

  • Gets very hot during use
  • Lid can be tricky
  • Color availability varies

This turquoise Proper Popper combines eco-friendly messaging with proven performance. The 100% food-grade silicone is completely BPA and PVC free, ensuring no chemicals leach into your popcorn. This makes it a healthier choice than microwave bags with PFAS linings.

The eco-conscious design eliminates single-use microwave bag waste. One silicone popper replaces hundreds of disposable bags over its lifetime. Customer photos show users proudly displaying their popper as part of their zero-waste kitchen setup.

The Original Proper Popper Microwave Popcorn Popper, Silicone Popcorn Maker, Collapsible Bowl BPA Free & Dishwasher Safe - (Turquoise) - Customer Photo 1
Customer submitted photo

Proper Popper claims up to 15 cups in under 4 minutes. During my testing, I consistently hit this mark when I listened for the popping to slow to 2-3 seconds between pops. The key is stopping at the right time to avoid burning while still popping most kernels.

The built-in handles stay cool enough for safe removal when you only make one batch. However, if you’re making multiple batches for a party, they’ll heat up and require oven mitts. Customer feedback confirms this pattern across users.

The Original Proper Popper Microwave Popcorn Popper, Silicone Popcorn Maker, Collapsible Bowl BPA Free & Dishwasher Safe - (Turquoise) - Customer Photo 4
Customer submitted photo

The turquoise color is vibrant and matches modern kitchen aesthetics. Proper Popper offers this popper in multiple colors including gray, blue, pink, purple, and black. The lifetime warranty applies regardless of color choice, covering any defects or issues.

Reasons to Buy Proper Popper (Turquoise):

  • 100% food-grade silicone eliminates chemical concerns
  • Eco-friendly design reduces single-use bag waste
  • Fast 4-minute popping time for 15 cups
  • Lifetime warranty protects your investment
  • Beautiful turquoise color options

Reasons to Avoid:

  • Requires oven mitts when hot
  • Lid placement takes some practice
  • Color availability may vary by season
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7. Korcci (Blue) – Compact #5 Best Seller

COMPACT PICK REVIEW VERDICT

+ The Good

  • No oil required healthy popping
  • Fast 2-4 minute time
  • Two convenient handles
  • Dishwasher safe
  • Great value

- The Bad

  • Gets very hot during use
  • Small for large families
  • Learning curve for timing

Korcci holds the #5 position in popcorn poppers on Amazon, with over 20,000 reviews backing its performance. The blue model offers the same reliable popping at a competitive price point, making it a solid choice for budget-conscious buyers.

The collapsible design folds down to just 2.3 inches for storage. Customer photos show the popper fitting easily in kitchen drawers and cabinets. The compact collapsed size makes it ideal for dorm rooms, RVs, and apartments with limited storage space.

The Original Korcci Microwaveable Silicone Popcorn Popper, Microwave Popcorn Popper, Collapsible Microwave Popcorn Maker Bowl, No Oil Required, Use In Microwave, Dishwasher Safe (Blue) - Customer Photo 2
Customer submitted photo

Korcci’s no-oil-required approach makes it ideal for health-conscious users. The hot air popping method produces fluffy popcorn without added fat or calories. You can always add butter or oil after popping if you prefer the taste.

The two built-in handles provide a secure grip when removing the hot popper from the microwave. During my testing, I found the handles well-positioned and comfortable to grip, even with oven mitts on. However, they do get hot during use, so caution is needed.

The Original Korcci Microwaveable Silicone Popcorn Popper, Microwave Popcorn Popper, Collapsible Microwave Popcorn Maker Bowl, No Oil Required, Use In Microwave, Dishwasher Safe (Blue) - Customer Photo 5
Customer submitted photo

With a 4.6-star rating from over 20,000 reviewers, Korcci has proven its reliability. The BPA and PVC-free food-grade silicone ensures safety. Even heating produces consistent results with minimal unpopped kernels when you find the right timing.

Reasons to Buy Korcci (Blue):

  • #5 bestseller position proves customer satisfaction
  • Compact 2.3-inch collapsed height
  • Healthy oil-free popping option
  • Two handles for safe removal
  • Great value for money

Reasons to Avoid:

  • Gets very hot–requires caution
  • 15-cup capacity may be small for large families
  • Requires timing experimentation for your microwave
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8. POPCO (Aqua) – Most Reviewed Amazon’s Choice

MOST REVIEWED REVIEW VERDICT

+ The Good

  • Most reviewed popper on Amazon
  • Durable silicone construction
  • Skip PFAS bags
  • Works with or without oil
  • Collapses to 2.3in

- The Bad

  • Gets extremely hot
  • Burns if timing wrong
  • Can overflow if overfilled

POPCO has the most reviews of any silicone popcorn popper on Amazon, with over 34,000 customers sharing their experiences. The Amazon’s Choice designation highlights its customer satisfaction and reliable performance. The aqua color adds a fun pop to any kitchen.

The durable silicone construction handles regular use without showing wear. Customer photos show POPCO poppers that look new after months of daily use. The heat-safe material with built-in handles makes operation simple and safe when used correctly.

POPCO Silicone Microwave Popcorn Popper with Handles, Silicone Popcorn Maker, Collapsible Bowls, Dishwasher Safe - 15 Colors Available (AQUA) - Customer Photo 1
Customer submitted photo

One of POPCO’s biggest selling points is eliminating single-use microwave bags with PFAS chemicals. These linings have raised health concerns, making the switch to reusable silicone appealing for health-conscious consumers. The environmental benefit adds up over hundreds of uses.

POPCO works with or without oil, giving you flexibility in how you prepare your popcorn. I’ve tested both methods and found that oil produces slightly more flavorful popcorn, while oil-free is lighter and crispier. The choice depends on your health goals and taste preferences.

POPCO Silicone Microwave Popcorn Popper with Handles, Silicone Popcorn Maker, Collapsible Bowls, Dishwasher Safe - 15 Colors Available (AQUA) - Customer Photo 3
Customer submitted photo

The collapsible design shrinks to just 2.3 inches for storage. POPCO offers 15 color options, so you can match your kitchen decor or choose a fun color. The aqua model is particularly popular for its bright, cheerful appearance.

Reasons to Buy POPCO (Aqua):

  • Most reviewed popper with 34,000+ ratings
  • Amazon’s Choice for reliability
  • Eliminates PFAS-lined microwave bags
  • Works with or without oil
  • 15 color options available

Reasons to Avoid:

  • Gets extremely hot during use
  • Can burn if you don’t watch timing
  • May overflow if overfilled with kernels
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9. W&P (Red) – Premium Design-Focused Quality

PREMIUM REVIEW VERDICT

+ The Good

  • Built-in measuring cup lid
  • Premium silicone quality
  • Ditches PFAS bags
  • Collapsible storage
  • No oil necessary

- The Bad

  • Very expensive at $55
  • Small 9.3-cup capacity
  • Gets very hot

W&P positions itself as a premium popcorn popper with design-focused quality. The red model features a clever lid that doubles as a measuring cup, ensuring perfect portion control every time. This attention to detail justifies the higher price point for design-conscious buyers.

The built-in measuring lid is genuinely useful. I found it eliminates guessing how many kernels to add, which prevents overfilling and messy spills. Customer photos show the lid in use, confirming it works as both measuring tool and cover during popping.

W&P Microwave Silicone Popper Maker | Red | Collapsible Bowl w/Built in Measuring, BPA, Eco-Friendly, Waste Free, 9.3 Cups of Popped Popcorn - Customer Photo 2
Customer submitted photo

W&P emphasizes eliminating plastic-wrapped PFAS-lined microwave bags. The eco-friendly message appeals to environmentally conscious consumers who want to reduce single-use waste. Each use replaces a disposable bag, adding up to hundreds over the popper’s lifetime.

The premium 100% food-grade BPA-free silicone feels thicker and more substantial than budget options. This quality construction explains the higher price point and promises longer durability. The 9.3-cup capacity is smaller than most competitors, better suited for individuals or couples rather than families.

W&P Microwave Silicone Popper Maker | Red | Collapsible Bowl w/Built in Measuring, BPA, Eco-Friendly, Waste Free, 9.3 Cups of Popped Popcorn - Customer Photo 4
Customer submitted photo

At $55, this is one of the most expensive silicone popcorn poppers on the market. You’re paying for brand reputation, design quality, and the integrated measuring lid. The premium positioning works for buyers who value aesthetics and brand recognition above all else.

Reasons to Buy W&P (Red):

  • Built-in measuring lid ensures perfect portions
  • Premium brand with design focus
  • Thicker high-quality silicone construction
  • Eco-friendly eliminates disposable bags
  • Clean aesthetic suits modern kitchens

Reasons to Avoid:

  • Very expensive compared to competitors
  • Smaller 9.3-cup capacity
  • Gets very hot during use
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10. W&P (Charcoal) – Better Value Premium Option

AMAZON'S CHOICE REVIEW VERDICT

+ The Good

  • Built-in measuring lid
  • Amazon's Choice
  • Eliminates PFAS bags
  • Collapsible design
  • Better value than red model

- The Bad

  • Still premium pricing
  • Small capacity
  • Requires potholders

The charcoal W&P offers the same premium features as the red model at a much better price point. At $25 versus $55 for the red version, you’re getting the same quality and functionality without paying a premium for color. The charcoal color looks modern and sleek.

The built-in measuring cup lid works exactly the same as the red model. Customer photos confirm this feature is just as useful, providing accurate portions that prevent overfilling. The charcoal color shows fewer stains and looks professional in any kitchen.

W&P Microwave Silicone Popper Maker | Black | Collapsible Bowl w/Built in Measuring, BPA, Eco-Friendly, Waste Free, 9.3 Cups of Popped Popcorn - Customer Photo 1
Customer submitted photo

W&P’s premium 100% food-grade BPA-free silicone delivers the same quality regardless of color. The charcoal version has earned Amazon’s Choice designation, showing customer satisfaction despite the lower price point.

The 9.3-cup capacity works well for individuals or couples making single servings. During my testing, I found it perfect for one-person movie nights or light snacking. Families would need to make multiple batches, which might be inconvenient.

W&P Microwave Silicone Popper Maker | Black | Collapsible Bowl w/Built in Measuring, BPA, Eco-Friendly, Waste Free, 9.3 Cups of Popped Popcorn - Customer Photo 3
Customer submitted photo

At $25, the charcoal W&P is priced in the middle range–more than budget options but much less than the red version. This sweet spot makes it accessible to more buyers while still delivering premium quality and the integrated measuring lid.

Reasons to Buy W&P (Charcoal):

  • Same premium quality at half the price of red
  • Built-in measuring lid for portion control
  • Amazon’s Choice for customer satisfaction
  • Modern charcoal color looks professional
  • Premium BPA-free silicone construction

Reasons to Avoid:

  • Still pricier than budget alternatives
  • Small 9.3-cup capacity limits servings
  • Requires potholders when hot
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How to Choose the Best Silicone Popcorn Popper?

Choosing a silicone popcorn popper comes down to a few key factors that match your specific needs. After testing multiple models, I’ve identified the features that actually matter in daily use.

Capacity and Family Size

Most silicone popcorn poppers hold 15-16 cups of popped popcorn. This amount comfortably serves 2-3 people. For larger families or frequent entertaining, consider making multiple batches or choosing a model with the largest capacity like Salbree at 16 cups.

W&P models hold only 9.3 cups, making them better suited for individuals or couples. If you mostly cook for one or two, the smaller capacity might actually be preferable since it takes up less space.

Material Safety

All quality silicone popcorn poppers should be made from 100% food-grade, BPA-free silicone. This certification ensures the silicone won’t leach chemicals into your food when heated. Look for explicit BPA-free and PVC-free labeling.

Food-grade silicone is heat-resistant up to about 446 degrees Fahrenheit (230 degrees Celsius). This far exceeds typical microwave temperatures, providing a safety margin. The silicone should feel substantial and not flimsy or thin.

Collapsible Design

The ability to collapse is one of the biggest advantages of silicone poppers. Most collapse to around 2.2-2.3 inches in height. This compact storage makes them perfect for small kitchens, dorms, RVs, and anyone with limited cabinet space.

Customer photos consistently show users taking advantage of the collapsible feature. Many store their poppers in drawers where rigid bowls wouldn’t fit. The collapse mechanism should work smoothly without feeling flimsy.

Oil Compatibility Guide

Quick Summary: Oil compatibility varies by brand. Salbree explicitly allows oil per their instructions. HotPop and many others recommend against it to prevent potential damage. When in doubt, add oil after popping.

The question of oil use causes confusion across forums and customer reviews. Here’s what I found from my testing and research:

Oil-Friendly
Salbree
Oil-Friendly
Proper Popper
Oil-Optional
POPCO
No Oil Recommended
HotPop

Reddit users report success using 1-2 tablespoons of oil with Salbree poppers. The key is using a small amount and spreading kernels evenly. However, one user reported melting their popper by using oil against manufacturer guidelines.

When using oil, the temperature can exceed silicone’s safe range. This is why some brands advise against it. If you want oil-popped popcorn, the safest approach is adding oil or melted butter after the kernels have popped.

Dishwasher Safety

Virtually all silicone popcorn poppers are dishwasher safe, but hand washing is often recommended to avoid water spots. The non-stick silicone surface cleans easily with warm soapy water. I typically just rinse mine out–the popcorn doesn’t stick, and a quick wipe is all that’s needed.

Pop Rate Performance

The percentage of kernels that actually pop varies between models. High-quality poppers achieve 90-99% pop rates, meaning only a few kernels remain unpopped. NY Magazine’s reviewer claimed a 100% pop rate with the Proper Popper, though results vary by microwave.

Factors affecting pop rate include microwave wattage, kernel quality, and timing. Listening for the popping to slow to 2-3 seconds between pops is the best way to know when to stop. Removing the popper too early leaves unpopped kernels, while waiting too long causes burning.

How to Use a Silicone Popcorn Popper?

Using a silicone popcorn popper is straightforward once you know the basics. Here’s the simple process that works for any model:

  1. Add kernels: Pour 1/4 to 1/2 cup of kernels into the popper. The fill line inside most models shows the maximum amount.
  2. Optional oil: If your popper allows oil, add 1-2 tablespoons and stir to coat kernels evenly. Skip this step for oil-free popping.
  3. Cover and place: Put the lid on securely and place the popper in the microwave.
  4. Microwave: Start with 3 minutes. Listen for popping to slow to 2-3 seconds between pops.
  5. Remove carefully: Use oven mitts or pot holders–the handles will be hot.
  6. Season and serve: Add butter, salt, or seasonings after popping. The popper doubles as a serving bowl.

The key is finding the right timing for your specific microwave. Lower wattage microwaves (600-900 watts) need more time, while higher wattage models (1000-1200 watts) pop faster. Start with 3 minutes and adjust by 15-second increments until you find your sweet spot.

Never leave the microwave unattended while popping. Burning can happen quickly once the popping slows. When you smell popcorn, it’s usually time to check.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the highest rated silicone popcorn popper?

The HotPop Original has the highest combined rating with over 35,000 reviews averaging 4.6 stars. The Salbree and POPCO models also have excellent ratings with 35,000+ and 34,000+ reviews respectively. All three deliver consistent popping performance with minimal unpopped kernels when used correctly.

Can you use oil in a silicone popcorn popper?

Oil compatibility varies by brand. Salbree explicitly allows oil according to their instructions, and Reddit users confirm success with 1-2 tablespoons. POPCO works with or without oil. HotPop recommends against oil inside the popper to prevent potential damage. The safest approach is adding oil or butter after popping.

How long does it take to pop popcorn in a silicone popper?

Most silicone popcorn poppers take 2-4 minutes depending on your microwave wattage. Start with 3 minutes and listen for the popping to slow to 2-3 seconds between pops. Higher wattage microwaves (1000-1200W) are faster, while lower wattage models (600-900W) need more time. Never leave unattended to avoid burning.

Is silicone popcorn popper safe?

Yes, quality silicone popcorn poppers made from 100% food-grade BPA-free silicone are safe. They eliminate PFAS and other chemicals found in microwave popcorn bags. Food-grade silicone is heat-resistant up to 446°F, well above microwave temperatures. Always check for BPA-free and food-grade certifications.

How do you clean a silicone popcorn popper?

Silicone popcorn poppers clean easily due to their non-stick surface. Most are dishwasher safe, though hand washing prevents water spots. I typically just rinse with warm water and a quick wipe–the popcorn doesn’t stick. For stubborn residue, use warm soapy water and a soft sponge. Avoid abrasive scrubbers that could damage the silicone.

Why do some kernels remain unpopped?

Unpopped kernels occur due to uneven heating, overfilling, or removing the popper too early. Using fresh kernels within 6-12 months of purchase helps. Don’t fill past the fill line. Listen for popping to slow to 2-3 seconds between pops before stopping. Some old maid kernels are normal even with the best poppers.


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