If you love popcorn, and you love to make it yourself, then you need a popcorn maker.
Not only are they easy to use, but they also make the best popcorn compared to say ordinary pans.
If you’ve made your research already, you should know that Wabash Valley Farms’ Whirley Pop range is probably the best you can find on the market.
In this article, we take a look at some of the best Whirley pop popcorn makers on the market and help you take the guessing out of the equation.
Let’s dive right in!
5 Best Whirley Pop Popcorn Makers
1. Whirley-Pop Sliver Popcorn Popper with Metal Gears
If you’re a purist, the Whirley Pop Aluminum Popper is certainly what you’re looking for.
Not only does it make the best popcorn ever, but it also comes with a long list of history (not that you’re here for history classes btw) to be proud of.
Also, referred to as the Original Silver Whirley Popper, this popper comes built with an aluminum base, which if you didn’t know already, should be the best material for popcorn popping.
As we discuss in this post, Aluminum conducts heat faster than stainless steel which means it’ll transfer the heat from the burners to your kernels faster.
As a result, your popcorn is likely to not only pop faster (up to 50% quicker) in this, but should also pop more evenly.
There’s one major drawback though, and that is the fact that it’s not induction compatible.
This means that those with induction cooktops will have to opt for the stainless steel version.
2. Whirley-Pop Stainless Steel popper with metal gears
If you can’t make do with the aluminum popper, then the stainless steel version certainly isn’t a bad alternative.
Not only is it induction compatible, but it should also outlast its aluminum counterpart given that more often than not, stainless steel is a lot more durable than aluminum.
Add to this the fact that it comes with metal gears and you have yourself a popper that should serve for years to come.
Of course, the main drawback here is that it’s not as good at conducting heat as aluminum which could result in a burnt kernel here and there and uneven popping.
In terms of popcorn quality, the differences between this and the aluminum one shouldn’t be vast as both come with Wabash Valley’s patented stirring mechanism which should minimize burnt kernels.
3. Whirley-Pop Color Changing Popcorn Popper with Metal Gears
Also made from aluminum, this color-changing Whirley popper comes with a trick up its sleeve and that is that it changes color from red to yellow when you’re popcorn is ready.
It comes with many of the benefits of the original Whirley-pop popcorn popper and the drawbacks too, so no, it’s not induction compatible.
It costs a couple of dollars (up to $10) more than the original silver popper which shouldn’t be an issue if you’re taken up by its color-changing antics.
4. Wabash Valley Farms – Stainless Steel – Platinum Series
The Platinum series popper takes Wabash Valley’s already durable Stainless Steel popper and makes it even tougher.
Marketed as the brand’s most durable popper, the platinum series is by far the most expensive in the brand’s line up which might be a hiccup for some.
For the price, you get yourself a tough stainless steel popper in platinum coating, a bottom aluminum disc for even heating, and a tempered glass lid with a cast iron handle bracket.
Of course, it does also come with Wabash Valley’s generous 25-year warranty and sure is induction compatible.
It is rarely in stock anywhere though, so you might need some luck getting your hands on one.
5. Whirley-Pop Popcorn Popper – Metal Gear – Red
Also made from aluminum, the red Whirley pop comes with a lot of the good things we’ve already discussed about the brand’s aluminum poppers.
The best part about it, however, is that it comes with a red finish which for some who might not be comfortable with the traditional silver color, could be a game-changer.
The only thing you should know before getting this is that it’s not as durable as the stainless steel models and is also not induction compatible.
Other than that, it comes with all of the usual features we’ve come to expect from Whirley-Pop poppers.
Things to keep in mind when choosing a Whirley pop popcorn maker
1. The material (Stainless Steel or Aluminum)
Whirley-Pop popcorn makers come in either aluminum or stainless steel builds.
As we discussed earlier, aluminum is the best material for popcorn popping as it conducts heat better which results in more evenly popped corn.
Stainless steel, on the other hand, is a lot more durable but doesn’t conduct heat as well which could result in more burnt kernels and longer popping times.
2. Induction Cooktops
Aluminum Whirley pop poppers are not induction compatible which means if you have an induction cooktop, you can only make do with the brand’s stainless steel models.
The good news is that the brand’s stainless steel models aren’t a bad option either and come in a variety of options.
3. Gear Options (Nylon or metal)
You’d have to choose between having metal or nylon gears.
We’d recommend getting a popper with metal gears as they’ve proven to be sturdier and longer-lasting than nylon.
4. Price
If you’re on a tight budget, then you might want to opt for the aluminum Whirley poppers as they offer the best value for money.
That’s not to say though that the brand’s stainless steel models are a bad investment as they’re still good quality poppers, just a bit more expensive.
5. Finish
Wabash Valley’s Whirley poppers come in a variety of finishes.
From silver to red, to color-changing red, copper, and platinum, there’s definitely a finish for everyone.
Take your time to decide which of these could compliment your kitchen while offering you the best popping experience.
6. Size
Most of Wabash Valley’s Whirley poppers come in a 6-quart capacity which is good for 4 to 6 people.
If you’re planning to make popcorn for a lot more people, then you might want to have a look at some other brands.
7. Durability
If durability is your biggest concern, then you should be looking at a combination of a stainless steel build along with metal gears.
Of course, the aluminum poppers should be durable too especially with Wabash Valley’s 25-year warranty, but experience suggests that the stainless steel poppers should be a lot more durable.
Where is Whirley Pop made?
Wabash Valley’s Whirley poppers are made in the United States.
The brand is based in Monon, Indiana and all of its products are made/grown in the US.
How to use a Whirley Pop?
Using a Whirley pop is pretty simple and straightforward.
All you need to do is put your kernels in the pan, add some oil, and start cranking away.
In just about 3 minutes, you should have perfectly popped corn.
How much popcorn can fit in a Whirley Pop?
Most Whirley pop poppers come in a size of 6 quarts which should be good for 4-6 people.
Are Whirley Pops dishwasher safe?
No, Whirley Pops are not dishwasher safe, so you should not try to clean them in the dishwasher.
Thankfully, they are quite easy to clean. In most cases, all you have to do is wash them by hand using warm water and soap.
Read more about how to wash your Whirley pop popper here
Conclusion
Whirley pop popcorn makers are some of the best poppers out there.
They come in a variety of materials, colors, and sizes to choose from so you can definitely find one that’s perfect for your needs.
If you’re looking for the best possible popping experience, then we recommend going for one of the brand’s aluminum models. These models conduct heat better which results in more evenly popped corn.
Do note that aluminum models are not induction compatible though, so if you have an induction cooktop, you’ll have to opt for one of the brand’s stainless steel models.
Whichever model you choose though, we’re sure you’ll be happy with your purchase, as many will prophesy, Wabash Valley farm certainly does know a thing or two about popcorns.
