Air Popped Popcorn vs. Microwave Popcorn: Which Is Better For You?

Popcorn is a snacking essential for everyone here at Popsmith — and according to research into the popcorn industry, it looks like most people agree as over 60% of popcorn is consumed at home.

This honestly isn't a surprise to us. Popcorn is a delicious and easy snack you can enjoy, whether it’s microwaved, store-bought, air-popped, or cooked on a stovetop.

Microwave popcorn is the most common type of popcorn people eat at home, thanks to it being relatively inexpensive, coming pre-seasoned in an array of flavors, and ready in a matter of minutes. The downside is that it can be full of unhealthy additives.

For a healthier alternative, you may want to consider air-popped popcorn. This popcorn is still easy to make and tastes delicious. But it comes with the added bonus of you getting to control the flavors.

So which is better for you — air-popped popcorn or microwave popcorn? Stay tuned as we explore the ins and outs of each of these popcorn types.

What Is Air-Popped Popcorn?

Air-popped popcorn is the healthiest way to enjoy popcorn.

You can make it at home with fewer additives and without adding sugar or processed ingredients.

The preparation process for air-popped popcorn is different from your usual microwave popcorn. It’s made using an air popcorn popper — though, with the right equipment, you might be able to make it in the microwave too.

Air popcorn poppers use hot air to pop kernels instead of oil. These aren't a new invention. You can find them in movie theaters, carnivals, and entertainment events. And because air poppers use high heat to pop kernels, the popcorn is less likely to burn or overcook.

Is Air-Popped Popcorn Healthier Than Microwave Popcorn?

One of the main benefits of air-popped popcorn is that it’s a healthy snack — especially compared to microwave popcorn.

Most microwave popcorn uses oil to pop kernels. Oil adds extra calories to the popcorn. Since you only need hot air to make air-popped popcorn, you end up with a high-fiber, low-calorie snack.

You also don't need to stick to plain air-popped popcorn. You can get creative with seasonings like sea salt, herbs, and a light drizzle of olive oil for a delicious yet healthy treat for your next movie night or game night!

How to Make Air-Popped Popcorn

Air-popped popcorn is a versatile treat that can be made in different ways. You can use a dedicated air popper or even use kitchen appliances you already own to achieve the same results.

Whatever method you use, you can create healthy homemade popcorn with ease. Besides using a dedicated air popper, you can make air-popped popcorn on the stovetop, in the microwave, and even in your air fryer!

Just take note that following the right measurements and cook times is crucial when making air-popped popcorn. Lucky for you, we’ll be sharing the exact measurements and cooking times you need for using an air popper and other methods:

Using an Air Popper

Check the instructions before making popcorn in an air popper. Most air poppers come with detailed instructions on how to use them. With that said, most air-popped popcorn machines have a similar mechanism so there won’t be too much of a difference between them.

One thing to be aware of is that kernels can grow as much as 45 times their size when they pop. Add too many to the machine and you may end up with an overflowing air popper and popcorn all over your kitchen!

You can avoid this by limiting the number of unpopped kernels you put in the air popper. A general rule of thumb is to use ⅓ cup of kernels to produce 9 cups of popcorn.

Once you’ve added your kernels, power up the machine and place a large bowl underneath the release spout. The popcorn pops on its own as it reaches the ideal temperature. When it’s finished popping, all you have to do is season it and enjoy!

Without an Air Popper

Don’t have an air popper? That doesn’t mean you have to stick with microwave or bagged popcorn! You can make air-popped popcorn at home with kitchen appliances you already own.

How to Make Air-Popped Popcorn with a Microwave

To make air-popped popcorn in the microwave, simply put your popcorn kernels in a paper bag. Make sure you fold over the top to trap the steam in — this will help the kernels pop.

Put the paper bag in the microwave for approximately 2 minutes and 30 seconds. The actual time will depend on how many kernels you’re popping and your microwave’s wattage. We recommend listening to the pops. If popping slows down to 2–3 seconds between pops, it’s time to take the popcorn out.

You can also use a silicone microwave popcorn maker to make the process easier. Microwave air-popped popcorn has a delicious crunchy texture.

How to Make Air-Popped Popcorn with an Air Fryer

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F and line the bottom of the basket with aluminum foil to help keep the kernels contained while popping. Next, place half a cup of popcorn kernels in a single layer and cook for 8–10 minutes.

Listen to the sound of the popcorn popping and turn the air fryer off when the kernels stop popping to avoid over-popping. What you’ll end up with is light and crispy popcorn.

How to Season Air-Popped Popcorn

Air-popped popcorn is low-fat and gluten-free. Plus, it lasts a long time when you store it in an airtight container. Unseasoned air-popped popcorn makes a great non-GMO option, too.

If you prefer your popcorn flavored, don't worry because air-popped popcorn offers endless flavor options. One way to season it is by adding a light sprinkle of sea salt and olive oil. This seasoning combo will keep your popcorn fairly healthy while still being delicious.

Another classic seasoning combo is to mix in some melted butter and salt. This is a slightly less healthy option, though, because of the butter.

Want more unique seasoning options? Try adding a few tablespoons of parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. You can also experiment with cinnamon and honey or vanilla extract to satisfy your sweet tooth.

The world is your oyster when it comes to seasoning air-popped popcorn, so have fun!

How Long Can I Store Air-Popped Popcorn?

The great thing about air-popped popcorn is that it's long-lasting. If you make too much by accident, you can just save the leftovers for another day. Air-popped popcorn can stay fresh for up to a week when stored in an airtight container at room temperature.

Also, it lasts longer if it’s unseasoned — so remember to season just the serving you're planning to eat.

PRO TIP: If your popcorn goes stale during storage, crisp it up in the oven for a few minutes to revive it.

Get the Most Out of Your Popcorn

Air-popped popcorn is a healthy alternative to microwave popcorn. You get greater control over exactly what ingredients go into making your popcorn, meaning you can make it as nutritious (or unhealthy) as you desire.

There are plenty of ways to pop air-popped popcorn at home, whether you have a popcorn machine or not. The ability to use an air popper or other kitchen appliances makes air-popped popcorn an accessible snack you can enjoy whenever you’re feeling hungry.

But if you want to elevate your popcorn experience, make stovetop popcorn instead. It's crunchier, more flavorful, and super easy to cook using the Popsmith Popper. Just pour, pop, and repeat.

Grab a Popper now and enjoy the best popcorn of your life!