This category covers popcorn makers, fondue sets and other electric party appliances for home entertaining, from film nights to dinners with friends. It suits families and hosts who like to serve food at the table. Brands in our range include BEPER, PAPSTAR, UNOLD, ARIETE and TRISTAR, with over 60 models to compare.
How to choose a popcorn maker, fondue set or party maker
Appliance type. Popcorn makers work either with hot air or with a little oil in a heated pot or stirring kettle. Hot air gives lighter popcorn without added fat, while oil-based machines give the cinema-style taste and allow sweet popcorn made with sugar. Fondue sets are built for cheese, chocolate or hot oil, so decide what you will cook before comparing models.
Capacity and number of guests. Fondue pots are usually sized by the number of people, from sets for two to four up to larger ones for six or more. Popcorn machines differ in batch size, so check how many portions one batch makes. A small batch is fine for a couple, but a family or a party needs a larger kettle or a quick turnaround between batches.
Heating and temperature control. Cheese and chocolate fondue need gentle, steady heat, while meat fondue in oil needs a much higher temperature. An adjustable thermostat makes one electric set far more versatile than a fixed-heat model. For popcorn, higher wattage generally means faster popping and less waiting between batches.
Cleaning and materials. Non-stick coatings, removable pots and dishwasher-safe parts save a lot of effort. Sugar and oil residue in a popcorn kettle is the hardest to remove, so look for a kettle or lid that detaches from the base. Never immerse the electrical base in water.
Safety and storage. Cool-touch handles, a stable base and a lid that fits well matter when hot oil, melted cheese or steam are on the table. These are occasional-use appliances, so check the size and cable length, and whether the parts store neatly in a cupboard.
Brands we carry
- BEPER: an Italian small appliance brand and the largest in this category in our range, with the most models to choose from.
- PAPSTAR: a German supplier of disposable tableware and party supplies, useful when you are hosting larger groups.
- UNOLD: a German brand known for table-top kitchen appliances such as raclette grills and waffle makers.
- ARIETE: an Italian brand with a long record in small household appliances, including popcorn makers.
- TRISTAR: a Dutch small appliance brand known for gourmet sets and table grills for social dining.
- CLOER: a German maker of small kitchen appliances such as waffle irons and toasters.
- TEFAL: a French brand best known for non-stick coatings on cookware and kitchen appliances.
- RITZENHOFF & BREKER: a German tableware brand known for porcelain and stoneware.
Also in our range: EMERIO, ADLER, ESPERANZA and MESKO.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a hot air and an oil popcorn maker?
A hot air popcorn maker pops kernels with a stream of heated air and needs no oil, so the popcorn is lighter and you add butter or seasoning afterwards. An oil-based machine heats kernels in a pot with a little oil, which gives a richer, cinema-style taste and allows sweet popcorn. Hot air models are usually easier to clean.
How much food should I plan per person for a fondue?
A common guide is around 150 to 200 g of cheese per person for a cheese fondue, and a similar weight of meat for a meat fondue served with sides. Chocolate fondue goes further because guests dip fruit and small treats. Choose a pot sized for your usual number of guests.
Can I make chocolate fondue in a cheese fondue set?
Often yes, provided the set has an adjustable thermostat that holds a low temperature, because chocolate burns easily at high heat. Always check the manufacturer's instructions, as some sets are designed only for cheese or only for hot oil. Melting the chocolate gently with a little cream also helps.
How do I clean a popcorn machine?
Unplug the machine and let it cool fully before cleaning. Wash removable parts such as the kettle, lid or tray in warm soapy water, or in the dishwasher if the instructions allow it. Wipe the base with a damp cloth and never immerse it in water.
