Comparison: Consumer Reports Best Microwave Popcorn (Updated | Dec 8th)

Act II Xtreme Butter provides 12 bags of 33 oz total, making it the lowest cost per ounce among the listed brands. Orville Redenbacher’s bulk packs (24‑bag Movie Theater Butter) also deliver strong value, but the price per ounce is slightly higher than Act II. For the most economical choice, compare the total weight on the shelf and calculate the cost per ounce before buying.

Orville Redenbacher’s Movie Theater Butter emphasizes real butter and claims no artificial preservatives, while Pop Secret’s version focuses on a classic buttery flavor with non‑GMO corn and no trans fats. Act II Xtreme Butter delivers a high‑impact buttery taste but lists a generic butter flavor without specifying real butter. Taste tests often note Orville’s butter as richer, whereas Pop Secret offers a lighter, more airy crunch.

Check for fiber content (at least 3 g per serving) and gluten‑free labeling, both present in several Orville Redenbacher’s varieties. Amish Country Popcorn highlights non‑GMO, low‑calorie, and nut‑free attributes, making it a good choice for allergy‑sensitive shoppers. Also consider trans‑fat‑free claims, which appear across most brands, and avoid products with artificial preservatives if you prefer cleaner ingredients.

A reusable glass popper eliminates the recurring expense of single‑use bags and reduces waste, but you’ll need to purchase bulk kernels separately. Over time, the per‑serving cost can drop below that of pre‑packaged bags, especially if you buy kernels in bulk. The upfront price of the popper is higher, so calculate how many servings you need to break even.

Both Orville Redenbacher’s Movie Theater Butter and Pop Secret Movie Theater Butter aim to replicate cinema flavor, but Orville’s uses real butter and markets a richer, buttery profile. Pop Secret emphasizes a classic buttery taste with non‑GMO corn, which many reviewers find close to theater popcorn. Personal preference will dictate which you find more authentic, so consider trying a single‑serve pack of each.

Larger packs like the 24‑bag Orville Redenbacher’s Movie Theater Butter or the 12‑bag Act II Xtreme Butter are convenient for frequent snackers but require proper sealing to maintain freshness. Keep bags in a cool, dry place and consider transferring them to airtight containers if you won’t use them quickly. Smaller 6‑bag packs stay fresh longer but may cost more per ounce.

Most microwave popcorn, including Orville Redenbacher’s and Pop Secret, are gluten‑free and contain no tree nuts or peanuts, but always check the label for cross‑contamination warnings. Amish Country Popcorn explicitly states it is nut‑free, making it a safe choice for those with nut allergies. If you have dairy sensitivities, verify whether the butter flavor uses real butter or a dairy‑free alternative.

Single‑use microwave bags generate more waste compared to bulk kernels used with a reusable popper like the Ecolution Micro‑Pop, which is BPA‑free glass and dishwasher safe. Brands that offer larger bulk packs reduce packaging per serving, slightly lowering their environmental footprint. Opting for non‑GMO, gluten‑free options does not directly impact waste, but choosing reusable containers can significantly cut down on landfill contributions.