Best Microwave Popcorn of 2025

Ashley Abels Avatar
Ashley Abels
Last Updated: Jan 15, 2025

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Microwave popcorn is a convenient and tasty snack that has become a household favorite. It comes in various flavors, from classic butter to sweet and savory kettle corn. Microwave popcorn is easy to prepare, requiring only a few minutes in the microwave before it's ready to eat. It's perfect for movie nights, game nights, or any time you're craving a quick and satisfying snack. With its affordable price and wide availability in grocery stores, microwave popcorn is a go-to snack for many people.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Orville Redenbacher's Movie Theater Butter Microwave Popcorn Cover #TOP 1
Orville Redenbacher's Movie Theater Butter Microwave Popcorn
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ACT II Xtreme Butter Microwave Popcorn Cover #TOP 2
ACT II Xtreme Butter Microwave Popcorn
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Orville Redenbacher's Ultimate Butter Microwave Popcorn Cover #TOP 3
Orville Redenbacher's Ultimate Butter Microwave Popcorn
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Microwave Popcorn

Orville Redenbacher's Movie Theater Butter Microwave Popcorn

Orville Redenbacher's Movie Theater Butter Microwave Popcorn Cover
Orville Redenbacher's Movie Theater Butter Microwave Popcorn, 3.29 Ounce Classic Bag, 24-Count

Indulge in the authentic taste of the theater with Orville Redenbacher's Movie Theater Butter Microwave Popcorn. Made with real butter, non-GMO popcorn kernels, and no artificial preservatives or flavors, this popcorn brand promises excellence and authenticity. With 24 classic bags per pack, you can enjoy the perfect snack for every occasion. Serve it alongside your favorite sweet treats to add a pop of fun to your movie nights or gatherings.

What We Like
Great taste
Big kernels
Good butter coverage
Affordable for large quantity
Flavorful and filling
What We Don't Like
Some unpopped kernels
Not very healthy
#TOP 2

ACT II Xtreme Butter Microwave Popcorn

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ACT II Xtreme Butter Microwave Popcorn Cover
ACT II Xtreme Butter Microwave Popcorn, 12 ct, 33.01 oz

Get ready for a high-impact flavor experience with the ACT II Xtreme Butter Microwave Popcorn, which comes in a value pack of twelve 33.01-ounce bags. This gluten-free popcorn is perfect for those who want to enjoy a delicious snack without worrying about gluten. Plus, with 0 grams of trans fat per serving, it's a healthier alternative to other snacks.

What We Like
Delivered on time
Great buttery flavor
Convenient packaging
Good value for money
Fluffy and crispy texture
What We Don't Like
Minor packaging issues
Small kernels
#TOP 3

Orville Redenbacher's Ultimate Butter Microwave Popcorn

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Orville Redenbacher's Ultimate Butter Microwave Popcorn Cover
Orville Redenbacher's Ultimate Butter Popcorn, Classic Bag, 12-Count

Enjoy the delicious flavor and loads of real butter in Orville Redenbacher's Ultimate Butter Microwave Popcorn. This pack of twelve (12) Classic bags of popcorn is made from 100% whole grains and is a good source of fiber. It is also a Gluten-Free snack and contains 0 g trans fat per serving.

What We Like
Great buttery flavor
Consistent popping
Versatile with toppings
Large portion sizes
Quick microwave preparation
What We Don't Like
May feel indulgent
#TOP 4

Pop Secret Popcorn, Movie Theater Butter

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Pop Secret Popcorn, Movie Theater Butter Cover
Pop Secret Popcorn, Movie Theater Butter, 3.0 Ounce Microwave Bags, 18 Count Box

Pop Secret Movie Theater Popcorn offers you the best butter ever, bringing the movie theater experience right to your home. With a slightly sweeter butter flavor and classic crunch, this microwave popcorn is perfect for cozy movie nights. The easy popping instructions on the bag make it hassle-free to prepare. The 10 count family size box ensures you have plenty to share with your loved ones. Enjoy the convenience and delicious taste of Pop Secret Movie Theater Popcorn!

What We Like
Great popping performance
Delicious buttery flavor
Perfect for movie nights
Crispy, light texture
Economical 18-count box
What We Don't Like
May be greasy when popped
High salt content
#TOP 5

Orville Redenbacher's SmartPop! Butter Popcorn

Orville Redenbacher's SmartPop! Butter Popcorn Cover
Orville Redenbacher's SmartPop! Butter Microwave Popcorn, 2.69 Ounce Classic Bag, 12-Count

Orville Redenbacher's Butter Popcorn offers a delightful snacking experience with its 12 classic bags of 2.69 oz each. This popcorn is a healthier option, being 94% fat-free and containing no trans fats, allowing you to indulge guilt-free. You can enjoy the rich taste of real butter, as it’s the only leading brand that includes it in select products. Plus, it’s free from artificial preservatives, flavors, and dyes, making it a gluten-free snack you can trust. Grab your favorite bowl and enjoy a flavorful treat that’s perfect for any occasion!

What We Like
Low-calorie snack option
Rich buttery flavor
Great value for the money
Lightly salted, satisfying
Convenient packaging
What We Don't Like
Occasional unpopped kernels
Sodium level may concern some
#TOP 6

Orville Redenbacher's Simply Salted Popcorn, Pack of 6

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Orville Redenbacher's Simply Salted Popcorn, Pack of 6 Cover
Orville Redenbacher's Naturals Simply Salted Popcorn, Classic Bag, 6-Count

Indulge in a healthy snack with Orville Redenbacher's Naturals Simply Salted Popcorn. Made from 100% whole grains and gluten-free, this popcorn is topped off with a hint of salt for a delicious, buttery flavor. It pops up in minutes and contains 0 grams of trans fat per serving, making it a perfect anytime snack that's good for you.

What We Like
Light and fluffy texture
Not overly salty
Simple ingredients, no artificial flavors
Healthier snack option
What We Don't Like
Inconsistent popping quality
Possible gum irritation
#TOP 7

ACT II Butter Popcorn

00076150232219
ACT II Butter Popcorn Cover
ACT II Butter Popcorn, 2.75 Ounce (12 Count)

ACT II Butter Popcorn is a delicious and convenient snack option for popcorn lovers. With twelve 2.75 oz. bags, you can enjoy a buttery and flavorful popcorn experience right at home. The microwave popcorn is easy to prepare - simply pop it in the microwave and in minutes, you'll have a hot and tasty snack. The butter flavor adds a rich and savory taste to the popcorn, making it a perfect treat for movie nights, parties, or anytime you crave a delicious snack. The individual bags ensure portion control and easy storage, allowing you to enjoy fresh popcorn whenever you want. With ACT II Butter Popcorn, you can satisfy your popcorn cravings with a quick and hassle-free option.

What We Like
Convenient purchase
Good popping quality
Value for money
Delicious buttery flavor
Enjoyable for families
What We Don't Like
Flavor could improve
A bit flavorless
#TOP 8

Pop Secret Movie Theater Butter Microwave Popcorn, 12 Ct

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Pop Secret Movie Theater Butter Microwave Popcorn, 12 Ct Cover
Pop Secret Microwave Popcorn, Movie Theater Butter, Flavor, 3.2 Oz Sharing Bags, 12 Ct

Get ready for a movie night at home with Pop Secret Movie Theater Butter Microwave Popcorn. The classically rich buttery flavor and airy popcorn crunch bring the movie theater experience to your living room, and it's ready in minutes. It's not only perfect for movie nights but also a great snack for TV watching or family game time. Made with non-GMO corn and no artificial preservatives, flavors, fructose corn syrup or trans fats, this is a snack you can feel good about. Comes in a convenient box of 12 shareable bags.

What We Like
High-quality popcorn
Delicious buttery flavor
Light and crunchy texture
Great for movie nights
Good value for quantity
What We Don't Like
Some unpopped kernels
On the salty side
#TOP 9

ACT II Butter Lovers Popcorn

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ACT II Butter Lovers Popcorn Cover
ACT II Butter Lovers Microwave Popcorn, 6 ct 2.75 oz Bags

ACT II Butter Lovers is a delightful choice for a quick snack. Each box contains six bags of fluffy popcorn, perfect for satisfying your cravings. With just two minutes in the microwave, you can enjoy a rich, buttery flavor that makes your afternoon break even better. Made from 100% whole grain popcorn, this treat is not only delicious but also a healthier option, as it contains no trans fats. Whether you’re watching a movie or simply need a tasty snack, ACT II Butter Lovers is both convenient and satisfying.

What We Like
Rich buttery flavor
Minimal waste from unpopped kernels
Close to movie theater popcorn
Vegan and reasonably priced
Tasty and satisfying snack
What We Don't Like
Some hulls get stuck in teeth
Occasional stale taste reported
#TOP 10

Kirkland Signature Microwave Popcorn, 44 Count

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Kirkland Signature Microwave Popcorn, 44 Count Cover
Kirkland Signature Microwave Popcorn, 3.3 oz, 44 Count (Family Bundle)

Enjoy the convenience of having movie theater popcorn right in your home with Kirkland Signature Microwave Popcorn. The 44 count family bundle is perfect for movie nights or entertaining guests. This microwave popcorn is flavored with natural butter and has a kosher certification. With each pack weighing 3.3 ounces, you can easily prepare a snack for yourself or share with others.

What We Like
Excellent flavor
Great popping performance
Large quantity per box
Light texture
Good value for price
What We Don't Like
Higher calorie count
Some unpopped kernels
Buying Guide Image

Microwave Popcorn Buying Guide: What You Need to Know

Introduction

Microwave popcorn is a convenient and tasty snack that is perfect for movie nights, late night cravings, and anytime you want a quick and easy treat. However, with so many different brands and flavors to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is right for you. In this article, we will discuss some key factors to consider when choosing microwave popcorn, so you can find the perfect bag for your snacking needs.

Ingredients

One of the most important things to consider when choosing microwave popcorn is the ingredients. Many microwave popcorn brands contain artificial flavors, preservatives, and other additives that can be harmful to your health. To avoid these potentially harmful ingredients, look for microwave popcorn that is made with all-natural, organic, and non-GMO ingredients. This will ensure that you are getting a snack that is not only delicious, but also good for you.

Nutritional Value

In addition to the ingredients, it is also important to consider the nutritional value of the microwave popcorn you choose. Some brands are packed with calories, fat, and sodium, making them an unhealthy choice for those who are trying to watch their weight or maintain a healthy diet. To find a healthier option, look for microwave popcorn that is low in calories, fat, and sodium, and high in fiber and protein. This will help you feel satisfied and energized, without overindulging.

Flavors

Of course, the flavor of the microwave popcorn is also an important factor to consider. There are countless flavors to choose from, ranging from classic butter and salt to more unique options like caramel corn and white cheddar. To find the perfect flavor for you, consider your personal preferences and try a few different options to see which one you like best. You may even want to try a variety pack that includes a variety of flavors, so you can experiment and find your favorite.

Packaging

Another thing to consider when choosing microwave popcorn is the packaging. Some brands come in single-serve bags, while others are sold in larger bags that can be re-sealed for freshness. Single-serve bags are convenient for those who want a quick and easy snack, but they can be more expensive in the long run. Larger bags, on the other hand, are a more cost-effective option, but they may not stay as fresh as single-serve bags. Consider your needs and preferences when deciding on the packaging for your microwave popcorn.

Conclusion

Choosing the right microwave popcorn can be a daunting task, but with a little research and consideration, you can find the perfect bag for your snacking needs. Look for a brand that uses all-natural, organic, and non-GMO ingredients, offers nutritional value, has a flavor that you enjoy, and comes in packaging that suits your needs. With these tips in mind, you can find a microwave popcorn that is both delicious and healthy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do you cook popcorn in the microwave?

To cook popcorn in the microwave, add the popcorn kernels to a large microwave-safe glass bowl with a tight-fitting lid. Cover the bowl and microwave on high for 5-6 minutes, stopping when you hear 2 seconds between pops at the end.

2. Are microwave popcorn healthy?

Microwave popcorn can be a convenient snack, but it's important to be aware of the added flavorings that can increase fat, calories, and sodium. Check the labels of your favorite brands and consider making your own popcorn for a healthier option.

3. How do you pop popcorn in the microwave without a bag?

To pop popcorn in the microwave without a bag, pour ½ cup of kernels into a bowl and cover it with a plate. Microwave for 2-5 minutes, adjusting the timing based on your microwave's wattage. The popcorn is done when the popping slows to more than a second between pops.

4. Should you wet popcorn before microwaving?

To avoid burning popcorn in the microwave, you can try adding some water first. Microwave a glass of water for at least one minute to create a humid environment, then quickly put in the bag or bowl of popcorn.

5. Why do you put a cup of water in the microwave before popcorn?

Adding a cup of water to the microwave before popping popcorn helps create a humid environment, resulting in fluffier popcorn instead of tough kernels.

6. Can you pop regular popcorn in a paper bag in the microwave?

Yes, you can make your own microwave popcorn using standard popping corn and a brown paper lunch bag. It works perfectly.

7. Is it safe to pop popcorn in a brown paper bag in the microwave?

While brown paper bags are not necessarily designed to be microwave-safe, popping popcorn in them can be safe if you monitor the process closely. It's better to leave some kernels unpopped than risk a potential hazard.

8. Is bagged popcorn healthier than microwave popcorn?

Pre-popped popcorn tends to contain less salt, sugar, grease, and calories compared to bagged microwave popcorn. Additionally, microwavable popcorn has been associated with harmful chemicals in some studies, such as diacetyl.

9. Is microwave popcorn better for you than potato chips?

Popcorn is considered to be a healthier option than potato chips due to its high fiber content, lower calorie count, and lower energy density. It can help make you feel fuller than an equivalent amount of calories from potato chips, making it potentially beneficial for weight loss.

Editor's Notes

During our microwave popcorn research, we found 24 microwave popcorn products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 240,993 customer reviews through our big data system to write the microwave popcorn list. We found that most customers choose microwave popcorn with an average price of $11.31.

The microwave popcorn are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of microwave popcorn, including Orville Redenbacher's, ACT II, Pop Secret, KIRKLAND. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Ashley Abels Avatar

Ashley Abels is a former restaurant executive and has worked in the restaurant industry for 15 years. She is also a gourmet who loves tasting different cuisines and trying out all kinds of cooking methods. The food she writes about will make you want to try it!

Microwave Popcorn Comparison Table

#TOP1
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#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Orville Redenbacher's ACT II Orville Redenbacher's Pop Secret Orville Redenbacher's Orville Redenbacher's ACT II Pop Secret ACT II KIRKLAND
Flavor Movie Theater Butter Butter, Kettle-Corn Butter Butter Butter Simply Salted Butter Movie Theatre Butter Butter Lovers Butter
Item Weight 5 Pounds 2.06 Pounds 2.47 Pounds 54 Ounces 2.02 Pounds 1 Pounds 2.1 Pounds 38.4 Ounces 1.03 Pounds 3.3 Ounces
Specialty Gluten Free Gluten Free Gluten Free No Artificial Flavors, No MSG Gluten Free Kosher, Natural Gluten Free No Artificial Flavors Gluten Free Natural
Allergen Information Milk Milk Milk Dairy, Milk - Gluten Free Gluten Free Dairy, Milk Gluten Free -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.9
Where to Buy