When we throw a Super Bowl party at our house, popcorn is a popular snack food. And having a sport bar-style home popcorn machine tucked in the corner of the home theater definitely kicks up the festive spirit a notch.

The rapid sound of the popcorn popping in the kettle gets everybody's attention. And, of course, that rich, movie theater popcorn aroma will have your guests making frequent trips to the popcorn maker to fill their bowls.

When Choosing a Popcorn Machine for the Home, size is important

We hear of many people who buy popcorn popper machines either too small or too large for their needs. During the holiday season, several department stores sell attractive inexpensive popcorn machines with a 2.5 oz popcorn capacity. Much too small for a family of four, let alone a party.

In general, popcorn machines with 4 oz, 6 oz and 8 oz kettle sizes work best for home use. On average a child will eat approximately 1 ounce of popcorn. An adult will eat around 2 ounces.

Below is a quick guide of how many adult servings a popcorn machine pops:

4 oz Popcorn Machines
6 oz Popcorn Machines
8 oz Popcorn Machines

Given that popcorn machines can pop multiple servings of popcorn quickly, a 4 oz popcorn machine could easily handle a family or party of four. A larger gathering of 6 to 8 people would probably need a 6 oz popper. If you frequently host larger parties, an 8 oz popper would be your best bet. We've found our 4 oz machine to suffice for most of our parties. But we're frequently having to pop multiple batches.

Keep Your Budget in Mind, But Don't Skimp

A 4 oz Elite Table Top Popcorn Machine is an inexpensive and popular popcorn popper.

You can find popcorn popper machines ranging from under $100 to $1,000. Quality and workmanship range as well. For home use a few times a month, there are several models like the Elite tabletop popcorn machine that serve your needs without breaking the bank. If you're fanatical about workmanship just as you are with football, then consider a 1911 popcorn machine. With a 4 oz version starting around $350, this is highly decorative, robust old fashion style popcorn machine made in America.

The stylish 1911 Popcorn Machine comes in 4 oz, 6 oz and 8 oz versions.

Buy With a Cart

A popcorn machine on a cart can be a highly attractive addition to your party room. However, if space is a premium, these units do take up room. However, since most carts also serve as a storage space for your popcorn supplies, it can be a useful decorative piece. If considering a cart, don't cheat. We've found many inexpensive and low quality popcorn machines on carts for sale. A good idea is to look for top rated popcorn machines without carts, and then purchase the cart separately.

Other features to keep in mind are when selecting a popcorn machine:

• Old maid trays: This makes clean up a cinch
• Bottom tray warmers: Keeps popcorn warm and fresh throughout the game and party (hard to find in 4 oz machines, the Elite Popcorn Machine does include a warmer)

If you should have leftover popcorn after your game, party or movie night, simply bag it up in an airtight container A theater-style popcorn machine can be a great investment for your home theater. And it can make your Super Bowl Party a more exciting visual and delicious experience. If you have popcorn left over after the game, simply bag it up airtight. It can last several days and you'll be prepared for you next movie night.

Our Elite Tabletop Popcorn Maker easily sits on a filing cabinet in our movie-themed room. It's a great addition next to our Avatar and Doris Day movie posters

After researching several tabletop popcorn makers, we chose to buy the Elite Popcorn Maker as our very first popcorn machine for the family movie room.

At well under $200, it met our budget and, most importantly, came with a number of great features normally found in more expensive 4 oz. theater popcorn makers like an old maid tray and a bottom tray popcorn warmer.

We've found the MaxiMatic EPM-450 Elite Tabletop Popcorn Machine fun and simple to operate. Just an on/off switch and a light and warming tray switch to deal with. We also appreciate the kettle lid magnet, freeing both hands to pour oil and popcorn.

It has consistently popped delicious popcorn with very little unpopped kernels. While we've had great results separately adding oil and popcorn to the kettle, we've found using pre-mixed packages of oil, seasoning and popcorn really captures the flavor and aroma of movie theater popcorn.

The Elite Popcorn Machine includes a nice quality popcorn scoop, measuring cup, a spoon for oil and a salt shaker.

It's been easy to clean quickly. The old maid tray is a great help here. As is the fact that the kettle swings down away from the stirring rod, making it very simple to access and wipe out the kettle.

Overall, our family loves using the Elite Popcorn Maker. Hearing the rapid popping of the popcorn in the kettle and smelling that delicious freshly popped popcorn aroma helps to make our family movie nights a bit more magical. It also adds a lot to the festive atmosphere for parties that we host.

Maxi-Matic EPM-450 Elite Tabletop Old-Fashioned 4-Ounce Kettle Popcorn Popper Machine List Price: $179.99 Sale Price: $125.00 You save: $54.99 (31%)   Eligible for free shipping!

Read what other customers say about the Elite Popcorn Machine on Amazon

An average-sized family (2 adults and 2 children) will find a 4 oz popper more than suitable for their needs. It produces 16 1-oz servings per popping session (a bit more than what's popped in a microwave popcorn bag). And, it pops popcorn in just about 4 minutes. So you can easily accommodate a larger crowd with multiple popping sessions.

Shipping and assembling the Elite Popcorn Maker

Our Elite Tabletop Popcorn Maker was shipped to our home protectively well packaged. In fact, it was tightly packaged as it took a few moments to remove the popper from the box. Assembly was pretty straight forward with clear instructions. The only difficult part was removing the cotter pin that holds the hinge in place. We also had to fine tune adjust the plate that holds the kettle up as it was a little too tight when releasing the kettle after popping.

At 14" x 12" , the popcorn machine easily fits on our counters. In fact, we placed ours on a small filing cabinet. At 30 lbs, it's also light enough to easily pick up and carry to different locations around the house or even into the backyard.

Let's take a closer look at some of our favorite features of the MaxiMatic EPM-450 Elite Tabletop Popcorn Machine

Is it easy to clean? Yep. And pretty quickly too.

We're going to admit it, cleaning is not one of our favorite past times. After watching a movie or hosting a party, the less effort cleaning the better. What attracted us to the Elite Popcorn Maker were some of the features that make cleaning pretty easy and quick.

Old Maid Tray: Honestly, we wouldn't own a popcorn machine without one. It's so easy to sweep unpopped kernels and popcorn remnants into the holes of the bottom tray. Then pull the old maid tray out and deposit the contents in the trash. All done.

Stirring rod and Kettle Construction: The stirring rod is conveniently attached to the top of the machine. Swing the kettle down and there's easy access to wipe the kettle with a damp cloth.

Detachable Kettle: Overtime, and with less frequent cleaning, the kettle can build up carbon from the heated oil and popcorn. The kettle easily detaches from the machine by just removing a cotter pin and bolt. This way you can do a thorough cleaning. So far, we've not had to do this thorough of cleaning as we've consistently wiped the kettle with a damp cloth after we're done using the machine.

Stainless Steel Kettle: Stainless steel is pretty resistant to scratches, dings and dents and the kettle can stay bright and shiny through years of use. The metal is easily cleaned with a damp cloth and mild dishwashing detergent. It can't be run through the dishwasher as the heating element is attached to the kettle.

Convenient to use and operate? Couldn't be easier.

Just two buttons: The Elite Popcorn Machine is simple to operate. The "Pop" switch starts the stirrer and the heating of the kettle. The "Light" switch turns on the light and tray warmer.

Kettle Lid Magnet: Very convenient feature. When pouring oil or popcorn into the kettle, lift the lid to the top of the machine, a magnet holds the lid in place. This keeps both hands free. It's recommended to use an oven mitt when handling the kettle lid.

Rotation Kettle Bar: When you hear the popcorn stop popping, simply rotate the kettle bar. The kettle swings down and the remaining popcorn pours out to the tray below.

Here is a look under the bottom tray of the Elite Tabletop Popcorn Maker. You can see the old maid tray in the forground. In the upper left is the warming element that heats the bottom tray and keeps the popcorn warm and crispy.

Warming Light and Warming Tray:
A warming light is pretty standard with all popcorn machines. However, the Elite Popcorn Maker comes with a warming element below the bottom tray. This keeps your popcorn crisp and warm for a longer period of time. This is feature not seen in a lot of 4 oz popcorn machines.

A Great Value for Family Movie Night Popcorn Fun

The MaxiMatic EPM-450 Elite Tabletop Popcorn Machine is one of the top popcorn machines we recommend to our friends. The price is perfect for the family budget. For the typical home use, this is a great value.

As a home decoration, the Elite Popcorn Machine's retro appearance is a great addition to our movie-themed room.

This is a home popcorn machine and shouldn't be considered for commercial or multi fundraising event usage. Additionally, if you plan on using a popcorn machine several times a week for parties, functions and the sort, consider looking at one of the commercial grade machines, like the Paragon Popcorn Machines. The 1911 popcorn machine also has a retro theater appearance. These poppers, usually start at over $300, are designed for high end uses. But they might be an overkill for the typical home popcorn use.

What others are saying about the Elite Popcorn Machine

This popcorn machine receives rave reviews from most consumers on the net, with an average of 4.5 out of 5 from most reviewers on Amazon. Here are some comments on the Elite Popcorn Machine:

"Other machines have these features (such as the Paragon units) but they cost around $300. This is a great deal and I'd buy it again."

"Super easy to clean and it is a pleasure to use. I love it."

"This popcorn popper is worth the money. We use it every Friday and Saturday. Not made of cheap plastic like some other models."

"This unit makes great popcorn and makes enough for about 4 people at a time (or one husband who loves popcorn)."

"Easy to assemble, looks good in the home theater. A good buy for folks who like a lot of popcorn."'

Where can you read more reviews on the Elite Popcorn Machine?

The best place for reviews from people who have purchased this product is Amazon.

Read what other customers say about the Elite Popcorn Machine on Amazon

Maxi-Matic EPM-450 Elite Tabletop Old-Fashioned 4-Ounce Kettle Popcorn Popper Machine List Price: $179.99 Sale Price: $125.00 You save: $54.99 (31%)   Eligible for free shipping! Availability: Usually ships in 24 hours

Own an Elite Popcorn Maker? Share what you think of this tabletop popcorn maker.

On April 30, 2009, DTX International (d/b/a Great American Popcorn Co.) voluntarily recalled three popcorn machines due to a potential burn hazard.

The three impacted models are:

• Pasadena
• Princeton
• Paducah

The popcorn machine model names can be found on the top of the unit. Popcorn machines sold online from September 2008 to October 2008 are impacted by this recall.

Basically, the potential burn hazard centers around the popcorn machine’s warming deck, which can remain on after being switched off. They are asking customers with these machines to stop using them and to contact the company to arrange for free repair plus shipping.

Here is a link to a document posted on the DTX International website that provides additional information as well as contact information.

Red popcorn machines are a standard color for a traditional snack. You'll find that red is the most popular color for popcorn machines, whether antique or contemporary. Choosing the right red home popcorn maker shouldn't just be based on price, consider what size you'll need.

Look below for a convenient guide on choosing the right popcorn machine.

Where can you find red popcorn machines for sale?

We’ve found EBay to be a great source for deals for red popcorn poppers.

Red Popcorn Machines

4oz POPCORN MAKER POPPER MACHINE Brand New Free Shipping PICK YOUR COLOR    US $95.96

4 OZ Commercial Tabletop Popcorn Machine Red Bar Party Gift Ounce Poper Maker    US $120.95

FunTime 8oz Red Bar Table Top Popcorn Popper Maker Machine FT825CR    US $175.99

1300w 8 OZ Commercial Tabletop Popcorn Machine Red Poper Maker Bar Party Gift    US $199.95

8oz RED THEATER STYLE POPCORN MAKER POPPER MACHINE BRAND NEW FREE SHIPPING    US $149.96

Pro Commercial Tabletop Popcorn Machine Red 1300w 8 OZPoper Maker Booth Business    US $198.95

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Red Popcorn Machine with Carts

Great Northern Popcorn Red Foundation Popcorn Popper Machine Cart 8 Ounce    US $233.97

Funtime 8oz Red Popcorn Popper Machine Cart 12 Pack of Popcorn FT860CR    US $296.99

Funtime 8oz Red Popcorn Popper Machine Cart 12 Pack of Popcorn FT860CRS    US $296.99

Funtime 8oz Red Popcorn Popper Machine Cart Popcorn Starter Pack FT860CRS    US $296.99

Funtime 8oz Red Popcorn Popper Machine Cart Popcorn Starter Pack FT860CR    US $296.99

Red Antique Style Popcorn Popper Machine with Cart 8 Oz Great Northern Popcorn    US $261.95

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Which home popcorn machine size is right for you?

When researching home popcorn machines, keep in mind that they are categorized by the amount of popcorn popped at one time. For the most part, popcorn popping lasts about 3 minutes.

4 oz. home popcorn machines: Popping 4 1oz servings (80 servings per hour), this size meets the needs of a small home theaters and small break rooms. Paragon makes two high quality popcorn machines in this category: 1911 Popcorn Machine and the Thrifty Pop Popcorn Machine.

6 oz. home popcorn machines: As a medium sized popcorn popper, these machines pop 6 1oz servings (120 servings per hour). Perfectly sized for larger home theaters, company break rooms, and smaller church and school events. High quality popcorn machines in this category: Paragon 6 oz. 1911 Popcorn Machine and the red Gold Medal Ultra 60 Popcorn Popper.

8 oz. popcorn machines: producing 8 1oz servings (160 servings per hour), these poppers are ideal for break rooms, small restaurants and waiting rooms. For expected large gatherings at home parties, these can be a good-sized popcorn popper. Churches and schools participating in fundraisers will also find these to be an ideal size.

Black popcorn machines are a popular choice for home theaters and game room. While price can be a major consideration, it’s important to choose the right sized popcorn maker. If the popper pops too little popcorn, you’ll end up disappointed and eventually end up garage selling it.

Look below for a convenient guide on choosing the right popcorn machine.

Where can you find black popcorn machines for sale?

We’ve found Amazon to be a great source for deals on black popcorn poppers.

Great Northern Popcorn Black 8 oz. Ounce Foundation Vintage Style Popcorn Machine and Cart List Price: $569.95 Sale Price: $228.99 You save: $340.96 (60%)   Eligible for free shipping!

Black Popcorn Maker Machine Elite by Maxi-Matic - 8oz Trolley with Popper and Cart Sale Price: $219.99   Eligible for free shipping!

Great Northern Popcorn Black Bar Style Lincoln 8 Ounce Antique Popcorn Machine (Bar Style) List Price: $399.95 Sale Price: $187.99 You save: $211.96 (53%)   Eligible for free shipping!

Great Northern Popcorn Black Foundation Antique Style Popcorn Popper Machine with 4 Oz Kettle List Price: $299.95 Sale Price: $134.95 You save: $165.00 (55%)   Eligible for free shipping!

Deluxe 8oz Black Popcorn Maker Machine by Paramount - New Full Size 8 oz Popper List Price: $399.99 Sale Price: $149.99 You save: $250.00 (63%)   Eligible for free shipping!

Maxi-Matic EPM-450 Elite Tabletop Old-Fashioned 4-Ounce Kettle Popcorn Popper Machine List Price: $179.99 Sale Price: $125.00 You save: $54.99 (31%)   Eligible for free shipping!

Which home popcorn machine size is right for you?

Popcorn machines are categorized by the amount of popcorn popped at one time. For the most part, popcorn popping lasts about 3 minutes.

4 oz. home popcorn machines: Popping 4 1oz servings (80 servings per hour), this size meets the needs of a small home theaters and small break rooms. Paragon makes two high quality popcorn machines in this category: 1911 Popcorn Machine and the Thrifty Pop Popcorn Machine.

6 oz. home popcorn machines: As a medium sized popcorn popper, these machines pop 6 1oz servings (120 servings per hour). Perfectly sized for larger home theaters, company break rooms, and smaller church and school events. High quality popcorn machines in this category: Paragon  6 oz. 1911 Popcorn Machine and the red Gold Medal Ultra 60 Popcorn Popper.

8 oz. popcorn machines: producing 8 1oz servings (160 servings per hour), these poppers are ideal for break rooms, small restaurants and waiting rooms. For expected large gatherings at home parties, these can be a good-sized popcorn popper. Churches and schools participating in fundraisers will also find these to be an ideal size.

You'll find these terms: popcorn poppers, popcorn machines, and popcorn makers often used interchangeably. Sometimes you'll find them combined, like popcorn popper machines or popcorn popper makers, and popcorn maker machines.

Is there a difference?

Well, basically, they all perform the same function: heat the popcorn kernel until the moisture within reaches the boiling point...then pop!

In general, the difference is in size and use:

Popcorn Poppers: These are the guys that sit on your counter, stove top or in your microwave when you want to pop popcorn and then get returned to your kitchen cabinet when not in use. Their use is pretty straight forward: heat and pop. They come in a variety of styles - bubble shapes (retro 70s), cones, bright colors, stylish black, etc. You'll find four different popping methods:

• Oil popcorn poppers: A popular brand is the Cuisinart Easy Pop Popcorn Maker
• Hot air popcorn poppers: Presto PopLite Hot Air Corn Popper and Presto Orville Redenbacher Hot Air Corn Popper are popular products.
• Stove top popcorn poppers: Whirley Pop Stovetop Popcorn Popper is a popular and simple popcorn popper that uses a hand crank to prevent sticking and burning of the popcorn.

Microwave popcorn poppers: Healthy alternative to microwave popcorn bags.

Popcorn Machines: When you walk into the movie theater, these are the machines you see popping the popcorn. In recent years, bar style (table top) popcorn machines and popcorn machines with carts have become popular decorative and fun additions to home theaters and game rooms. Popcorn machines can range in the following sizes:

• 4 oz. popcorn machines: These make four 1oz. servings every 3 minutes and are appropriate for small home theaters and game rooms
• 6 oz. popcorn machines: Makes six 1oz. servings every 3 minutes and are appropriate with home theaters and game rooms and for mid-sized gatherings.
• 8oz. popcorn machines: Makes eight 1 oz. servings every 3 minutes (seeing a pattern?) and are appropriate for large home theaters and game rooms, large gatherings, smaller break rooms, restaurants, bars and waiting rooms. These can also be appropriate popcorn machines for fundraisers that attract small crowds.
• 12 oz. popcorn machines: Makes twelve 1oz. servings every 3 minutes and are designed for concession stands, snack bars, schools, and large fundraising events.
• 14 oz. popcorn machines: Of course, these guys produce a lot of popcorn and are appropriate for larger concession stands and theaters.

Popcorn Makers: You'll find all of the above called popcorn makers at times. Though in the past, popcorn maker was the popular term for popcorn popper, the term is not used as much today.