I noticed that all of the popcorn machines I am considering come with either 2 or 3 switches. The 4oz models all seem to be 2 switch while the 6 & 8oz models all seem to be 3 switch. I figured out that on the 2 switch machines the switches are for light and pop, I am assuming pop means the switch controls both kettle heat and the stirrer motor, and the light switch controls a warming lamp. Then on the 3 switch machines the switches are light, stirrer, and kettle heat.

Assuming I am correct about the switches on the 4oz models (am I?), what is the advantage of having a separate stirrer motor switch and kettle heat switch?

Is this difference alone a good enough reason to buy a 6 or 8oz machine over a 4oz?

Thanks!

I like to turn off the heat to the kettle a little before the popping cycle has completed to help prevent burning. On my 4oz machine only has two switches it would be nice, however, to be able to turn off the heat but still let the stirrer run until all kernals have popped.

I like to turn off the heat to the kettle a little before the popping cycle has completed to help prevent burning. On my 4oz machine only has two switches it would be nice, however, to be able to turn off the heat but still let the stirrer run until all kernals have popped.

So then you are saying I am correct on my assumptions about what the third switch does? If so it seems to me that being able to stir that corn at the end of a pop without the heat would be very useful. I am going to go for a 3 switch machine. But first someone please post in this thread that I am thinking correctly.

Thanks.

Is this difference alone a good enough reason to buy a 6 or 8oz machine over a 4oz?

Thanks!

No, because there really aren't that many kernels left at the end of a cycle. You will usually hear it stop long before it burns but you have to be there to watch it regardless of the size or whether you have the switch.

I have a 4oz machine and I have never burned a load of popcorn. I usually don't see many unpopped kernels at the end. Actually the time that you will see the most unpopped kernels is at the first to the middle of the cycle spitting out of the kettle as it gets going.... It's not at the end.... I would recommend to make sure you get the "old maid drawer" to allow the unpopped kernels to drop through the bottom.

The main issue here is how much popcorn do you want to pop per cycle and how much you want to pay for the machine??? If you will only consume 4oz of popcorn per session, yet you want the switch, you will be wasting a lot of money on a machine, on the popcorn packets, and on the wasted popped popcorn if you go with a larger machine. But if you use and consume the 6oz or 8oz amounts, then the switch would be a bonus....

If you plan on making more than just popcorn in the premeasured prepacks such as lots of caramel pop or the other sugared flavorings, then I can see that the switch could be beneficial not to burn the load. I have to admit with my 4oz, you just have to watch it carefully...it can get tricky and burn quickly! :cool:

Belusch

I like to turn the heat off a little before the cycle ends so the kettle kools a bit since you have to wipe it out with a towel before the next batch. I usually make a minumum of three consecutive batches.

Unless I am mistaken my 8 oz Gold Medal Antique Gay 90's kettle generates significantly more heat than a low end 4 oz popper. That fact alone adds to the benefit of a third switch that allows me to shut off the heat before the popping stops. I have found the third switch to be helpful.

I have a 4oz Paragon Contempo popper and it has 2 switches, have yet to burn a batch of popcorn either. Works well, the heating deck keeps the popcorn fresh, I personally would like a 3rd switch for a larger popper, but for the 4oz I personally wouldnt think you would need it. I also use the portion packs so it works out well.

I have a 4 oz machine with 3 switches. I also turn the kettle heat off before the last one and allow the stirrer to continue until it is done popping and leave the heat lamp on.
I like having the 3 switches but don't think it is a must on a 4 oz. I also use portion packs and have never burned a batch.