Good microwave popcorn needs even power, enough room for a bag to puff and a way to stop before the bag scorches. Most countertop models have a popcorn key, but some handle it better than others. A roomy cavity and a sensor or inverter system tend to help.
The six microwaves below are well-known countertop models from established brands. We have not used them ourselves, so confirm the size, menu options and outside dimensions on the current listing before you buy. Treat every preset as a starting point and listen for the pops slowing down.
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What to Look For
| Feature | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Popcorn key | A dedicated preset saves guessing, but you should still watch the bag |
| Interior width | A wide turntable lets a bag expand without touching the walls |
| Sensor or inverter | Steadier power means fewer burnt kernels at the edges |
| Turntable | A smooth, removable plate is easy to clean after buttery spills |
| Door and handle | A clear window helps you judge the pause between pops |
| Power level control | Dropping the power a notch can help if bags burn near the end of the cycle |
Specs at a Glance
| Microwave | Size class | Popcorn-friendly feature | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Panasonic NN-SU696S | About 1.3 cubic feet | Inverter and popcorn menu | Wide, even heating |
| GE JES1097SMSS | About 1.0 cubic feet | Preset menu | Compact stainless look |
| Samsung MS11K3000AS | About 1.1 cubic feet | Ceramic enamel interior | Easy to wipe |
| Sharp SMC1131CW | About 1.1 cubic feet | Preset menu | Simple dial-free keypad |
| LG NeoChef LMC1575ST | About 1.5 cubic feet | Smart inverter | Roomy cavity |
| Toshiba ML-EM34P(SS) | About 1.3 cubic feet | Sensor and presets | Check listing for menu |
The 6 Best Microwaves for Popcorn
1. Panasonic NN-SU696S
A larger Panasonic countertop microwave that uses inverter power to keep heat steady. It is a strong match for popcorn bags that need a gentle, even build-up.
Suits: frequent popcorn nights. Strengths: even heating and a roomy cavity. Weaknesses: a bigger body on the counter. Skip it if space is limited.
View Panasonic NN-SU696S on Amazon
2. GE JES1097SMSS
A familiar GE countertop microwave in the 1.0 cubic foot class with a stainless finish and a set of preset cooking keys.
Suits: a small family. Strengths: a simple keypad and a recognised brand. Weaknesses: the cavity is smaller than larger models. Skip it if you often cook extra-large bags.
3. Samsung MS11K3000AS
A Samsung countertop microwave in the 1.1 cubic foot class. The ceramic enamel interior is designed to be easier to clean after greasy spills.
Suits: a mess-prone snack habit. Strengths: a wipe-clean interior. Weaknesses: fewer advanced features. Skip it if you want sensor cooking.
View Samsung MS11K3000AS on Amazon
4. Sharp SMC1131CW
A white Sharp Carousel countertop microwave in the 1.1 cubic foot class with a straightforward keypad and preset buttons for common snacks.
Suits: a bright white kitchen. Strengths: a plain, easy layout. Weaknesses: a basic list of features. Skip it if you prefer a stainless finish.
View Sharp SMC1131CW on Amazon
5. LG NeoChef LMC1575ST
A larger LG countertop microwave with Smart Inverter technology, which aims for even results across the turntable.
Suits: big bags and big bowls. Strengths: a roomy interior and inverter cooking. Weaknesses: a bigger footprint. Skip it if your counter is narrow.
View LG NeoChef LMC1575ST on Amazon
6. Toshiba ML-EM34P(SS)
A Toshiba countertop microwave in the larger size class with a sensor system and preset menu. Read the listing for the exact popcorn setting.
Suits: a mid-size family kitchen. Strengths: sensor options and ample room. Weaknesses: menu details differ across versions. Skip it if you want the simplest panel.
View Toshiba ML-EM34P(SS) on Amazon
Care and Setup
- Remove the bag promptly and open it away from your face, since steam escapes fast.
- Wipe butter spots from the ceiling and walls after each batch.
- Clean the turntable ring so the plate spins freely.
- Keep a microwave-safe bowl on hand for loose kernels.
- Stop the cycle when pops slow to a couple of seconds apart.
- Let the bag cool for a minute before you tear it open, because the steam is hot.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Pressing the popcorn key and walking away.
- Using the preset on a bag that is smaller or larger than usual.
- Reheating a half-popped bag for another try.
- Placing the bag where it touches the walls.
- Forgetting to check the vent clearance behind the unit.
- Using a bag that is wider than the turntable.
Microwaves for Popcorn FAQ
Is a popcorn button reliable?
It is a good starting point. Brands of bag differ, so listen for the pops to slow and stop early if the smell turns toasty.
Does a bigger microwave pop better?
A wider cavity gives the bag room to puff, which helps. Large bags may need a model above the 1.0 cubic foot class.
Is inverter cooking useful for popcorn?
It delivers steadier power, which can reduce scorched edges. It is a plus, not a must.
Can I pop kernels in a bowl instead?
Many people do with a microwave-safe lid and a little oil. Follow the guidance from the bowl’s maker.
The Short Version
For even heat, the Panasonic NN-SU696S. For a classic stainless look, the GE JES1097SMSS. For easy cleanup, the Samsung MS11K3000AS. For a white kitchen, the Sharp SMC1131CW. For a roomy cavity, the LG NeoChef LMC1575ST. For sensor cooking, the Toshiba ML-EM34P(SS).