Best Microwave Popcorn of 2026

Ashley Abels Avatar
Ashley Abels
Last Updated: Jan 23, 2026

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

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

Pop Secret Movie Theater Butter Microwave Popcorn 12-Pack Cover #TOP 1
Pop Secret Movie Theater Butter Microwave Popcorn 12-Pack
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ACT II Butter Lovers Microwave Popcorn 3-Pack Cover #TOP 2
ACT II Butter Lovers Microwave Popcorn 3-Pack
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ACT II Xtreme Butter Microwave Popcorn Cover #TOP 3
ACT II Xtreme Butter Microwave Popcorn
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Microwave Popcorn

Pop Secret Movie Theater Butter Microwave Popcorn 12-Pack

200790112476
Pop Secret Movie Theater Butter Microwave Popcorn 12-Pack Cover
Pop Secret Microwave Popcorn, Movie Theater Butter Flavor, 1.75 Oz Snack Bags, (Pack of 12)

Pop Secret Butter Popcorn delivers a rich, buttery flavor that lets you enjoy the classic movie theater popcorn experience right at home. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you're settling in for a movie night, watching TV, or playing games with family. You can have warm, fresh popcorn in just minutes, filling your space with an inviting aroma that's hard to resist. Plus, it’s made with non-GMO corn and free from artificial preservatives, flavors, fructose corn syrup, or trans fats, so you can feel good about snacking on it anytime.

What We Like
Rich buttery flavor
Few unpopped kernels
Great value pack
Perfectly sized snack bags
Quick microwave popping
What We Don't Like
Slightly greasy texture
#TOP 2

ACT II Butter Lovers Microwave Popcorn 3-Pack

00076150232585
ACT II Butter Lovers Microwave Popcorn 3-Pack Cover
Act II Butter Lovers Microwave Popcorn, 2.75 oz., 3-Count Bags

The ACT II Butter Lovers Popcorn is a convenient snack option that comes with three bags, each weighing 2.75 ounces. You can enjoy fluffy popcorn that delivers a rich buttery taste in every bite, making it perfect for movie nights or quick treats. It cooks quickly in the microwave, ready in just two minutes, saving you time when you want a fast snack. Plus, it’s made from 100% whole grain popcorn and contains zero trans fat, so you get a tasty and healthier snack choice. This popcorn is ideal for anyone looking for a delicious and quick snack with wholesome ingredients.

What We Like
Great buttery flavor
Large portion size
Good value for money
Quick and easy preparation
Soft texture, few kernels
What We Don't Like
Occasionally damaged packaging
Butter content could be higher
#TOP 3

ACT II Xtreme Butter Microwave Popcorn

00076150332308
ACT II Xtreme Butter Microwave Popcorn Cover
Act II Xtreme Butter Microwave Popcorn, 2.75 oz., 12-Count Bags

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
Intense buttery flavor
Even butter distribution
Fluffy, crispy texture
Great value for money
Minimal unpopped kernels
What We Don't Like
Occasional flimsy packaging
#TOP 4

Orville Redenbacher's Kettle Corn Microwave Popcorn

00027000490181
[N/A]
Orville Redenbacher's Kettle Corn Microwave Popcorn Cover
Orville Redenbacher’s Microwave Popcorn, Kettle Corn, 3g Fiber Per Serving, Movie Night Supplies, 3.3 oz., 6-Count

Orville Redenbacher's Kettle Corn Microwave Popcorn comes in a pack of 6, each bag weighing 3.28 oz. This delicious snack is perfect for satisfying your sweet and salty cravings, and is free from artificial preservatives, flavors, and dyes. Orville Redenbacher's kernels are exclusively grown by family farmers and are gluten-free. Add this flavorful twist on your favorite snack to your pantry today.

What We Like
Balanced sweet and salty flavor
Few unpopped kernels
Light and crisp texture
Even popping and easy preparation
Good for family snacking
What We Don't Like
Slight syrupy residue in bag
#TOP 5

Orville Redenbacher's Ultimate Butter Microwave Popcorn

00027000523834
Orville Redenbacher's Ultimate Butter Microwave Popcorn Cover
Orville Redenbacher’s Microwave Popcorn Value Size, Ultimate Butter Flavor, 3g Fiber Per Serving, 3.29 oz., 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
Rich buttery flavor
Light and fluffy texture
High pop rate
Great value size
Freshness
What We Don't Like
Some unpopped kernels
#TOP 6

Orville Redenbacher’s Movie Theater Butter Mini Bags

20027000623170
12 Count
Orville Redenbacher’s Movie Theater Butter Mini Bags Cover
Orville Redenbacher’s Microwave Popcorn Mini Bags, Movie Theater Butter Flavor, 3g Fiber Per Serving, 1.5 oz., 12-Count

The Orville Redenbacher’s Popcorn Mini offers a convenient snack option with its compact 1.5 oz. bags, perfect for quick microwave preparation. Each package includes 12 mini bags, making it easy for you to enjoy multiple servings without waste. The product is lightweight, weighing just 1.35 lbs, so you can store it effortlessly at home or take it on the go. Made in the United States, this popcorn ensures quality and supports local manufacturing. Its movie theater butter flavor brings a classic taste that makes your movie nights or snack times more enjoyable.

What We Like
Compact mini bags
12-count package
Lightweight design
Made in USA
What We Don't Like
Poor shipping packaging
Not ideal for sharing
#TOP 7

Orville Redenbacher's Movie Butter Popcorn

00027000372425
[N/A]
Orville Redenbacher's Movie Butter Popcorn Cover
Orville Redenbacher’s Microwave Popcorn, Movie Theater Butter Flavor, 3g Fiber Per Serving, Movie Night Supplies, 3 oz., 6-Count

Orville Redenbacher's Butter Popcorn offers a delightful movie experience right at home. Each box contains six convenient 3.29 oz bags filled with buttery goodness. Unlike many brands, this popcorn uses real butter, enhancing the rich flavor that you crave. Plus, it's free from artificial preservatives, flavors, and dyes, ensuring a wholesome snack. The kernels come from a select group of family farmers, maintaining a tradition of quality since 1952. Enjoy this tasty popcorn on its own or pair it with your favorite sweets for a fun treat during movie night.

What We Like
Excellent flavor
Very few unpopped kernels
Fresh and crunchy texture
Good butter coverage
Competitive price
What We Don't Like
Somewhat unconventional review experiences
#TOP 8

Orville Redenbacher's SmartPop! Butter Popcorn

Orville Redenbacher's SmartPop! Butter Popcorn Cover
Orville Redenbacher’s Microwave Popcorn SmartPop! Value Size, Butter Flavor, 4g Fiber Per Serving, 2.69 oz., 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
Healthy alternative
Low calorie
Light and fluffy texture
Few un-popped kernels
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
Mild flavor
Less flavorful than regular popcorn
#TOP 9

Orville Redenbacher's Simply Salted Popcorn

00027000489178
[N/A]
Orville Redenbacher's Simply Salted Popcorn Cover
Orville Redenbacher’s Naturals Simply Salted Microwave Popcorn, 3.3 oz., 6-Count

Orville Simply Salted Popcorn offers a delightful snacking experience with its six bags of microwave popcorn. Each bag is filled with 100% whole-grain popcorn, making it a nutritious option for your snack cravings. Enjoy the delicious flavor enhanced by just the right amount of salt, perfect for those who appreciate a simple yet satisfying taste. Plus, this gluten-free popcorn is a good source of fiber, helping you stay full and energized. With 0 grams of trans fat per serving, you can indulge without guilt.

What We Like
Lightly salted flavor
No artificial butter taste
Pops evenly and completely
Low sodium content
Simple, healthy ingredients
What We Don't Like
Occasional flat or sticky pack
#TOP 10

Orville Redenbacher's Movie Theater Butter Microwave Popcorn

Orville Redenbacher's Movie Theater Butter Microwave Popcorn Cover
Orville Redenbacher’s Microwave Popcorn, Movie Theater Butter Flavor, 3g Fiber Per Serving, 3.29 oz., 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
Movie theater taste
Fluffy, flavorful kernels
Convenient bulk packaging
Few unpopped kernels
Good value for money
What We Don't Like
Some unpopped kernels
Price can vary by retailer
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 316,919 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 $4.60.

The microwave popcorn are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of microwave popcorn, including Pop Secret, ACT II, Orville Redenbacher's. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 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
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Pop Secret ACT II ACT II Orville Redenbacher's Orville Redenbacher's Orville Redenbacher's Orville Redenbacher's Orville Redenbacher's Orville Redenbacher's Orville Redenbacher's
Units - 8.25 Ounce 33.0 Ounce 19.7 Ounce 39.49 Ounce 17.98 Ounce 19.74 Ounce 32.29 Ounce 19.74 Ounce 78.96 Ounce
Flavor - Butter Butter, Kettle-Corn Kettle-Corn Butter Butter Butter Butter Simply Salted Movie Theater Butter
Item Weight - 8.26 ounces 2.1 Pounds 1.2 Pounds 2.5 Pounds 1.1 Pounds 3.29 Ounces 2 Pounds 1.24 Pounds 4.95 Pounds
Specialty - Gluten Free Gluten Free Kosher kosher kosher kosher kosher Kosher, Natural Gluten Free
Allergen Information - Gluten Free Milk Gluten Free Milk Dairy Gluten Free - Gluten Free Milk
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 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
Where to Buy