Popcorn maker vs. air fryer: running cost
A popcorn maker is cheaper to run: about $2 a year versus $24 for an air fryer at typical use and 17.99¢/kWh, a $22 difference.
| Popcorn maker | Air fryer | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical watts | 1,100 W | 1,500 W |
| Watt range | 850–1,400 W | 800–1,800 W |
| Typical use | 6 minutes a day, 2 days a week | 24 minutes a day |
| Energy per year | 11 kWh | 131 kWh |
| Cost per hour | 20¢ | 16¢ |
| Cost per day | 0.6¢ | 6.5¢ |
| Cost per month | $0.17 | $1.97 |
| Cost per year | $2 | $24 |
| Per year in Hawaii (43.51¢) | $5 | $57 |
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What drives the difference
- Popcorn maker: Hot air poppers draw about 1,000-1,400 W for 2-3 minutes; theater-style kettle machines 800-900 W including the kettle and warming light.
- Air fryer: Air fryers draw 1,200-1,800 W but cycle once at temperature; a 20-minute cook uses about 0.25-0.4 kWh.
Ways to cut either cost
Pops a bowl in 2-3 minutes in the microwave with no extra appliance.
See options on AmazonKeep the basket clean so airflow and cook times stay efficient.
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Frequently asked questions
Which costs more to run, a popcorn maker or an air fryer?
At typical use and the U.S. average rate (17.99¢/kWh), an air fryer costs about $24 a year versus $2 for a popcorn maker. That's $22 more, or 11.5× as much.
How many watts do popcorn maker and air fryer use?
A popcorn maker typically draws 1,100 W (range 850–1,400 W). An air fryer draws 1,500 W (range 800–1,800 W). Watts alone don't decide cost. Hours of use, cycling and standby matter just as much.
Rates: EIA, 12 months ending 2026-07. Methodology.