Bought this used, previous owner had it 5 years. Still works great! I use the benchmark pre-measured packs and have never had issues with uncooked kernels (Don't forget to lower the kettle lid during popping!) It is very sturdy, there are only two parts that seem flimsy"”The doors are plastic and so is the old maid tray (Although I've seen reviews where it is metal, they might have upgraded that in recent versions). Besides those two parts, everything is glass or metal, it is definitely a true industrial grade popcorn machine.

There are only three issues I have with this machine:
1) NO HEATED DECK! I like to make 3-5 batches in a row (You're supposed to warm the kettle 5 minutes before you start making a batch), and the popcorn at the bottom tends to get cold before I get done popping, which is a major bummer. I'm really not sure why Benchmark would skimp out on an otherwise (nearly) perfect popper!
2) The kettle plug likes to come unplugged occasionally, if it comes partially unseated the kernels never reach temperature, but it seems like it is cooking because it continues stirring.
3) (Really minor, just a desire) I wish there was a "POPCORN" decal on the sides, since I've not got it behind a counter, the only decal is on the back against the wall. I wish it was at least optional!

If you're looking for a heated deck machine, consider looking at the Paragon Theater Pop (Roughly the same price, although the design isn't as nice in my opinion) or the "Silver Screen" Benchmark line (Benchmark's higher end product line, again, design not quite as nice.)

Also, if you're looking at bags to buy when you get the 4oz version, one portion will full about three 32oz bags, or two 46oz bags (Or one heaping 85oz tub!) And don't forget the movie theater "popcorn butter" (Vegetable oil with butter flavoring additives, the stuff movie theaters use), to complete your home theater experience!

First off, I must say this is a well built popper, and I'm very happy with the overall quality of the popper.

My disappointment lies within the amount of raw corn the can actually be popped with an acceptable amount of unpopped kernels. If the popper is loaded with the suggested 1/2 cup of popcorn, a fair amount it blown out at the point a few kernels start to pop. In the end, the amount of unpopped kernels is considerably more using the same popcorn on a stove-top popper. After popping over 4 pounds of popcorn with this machine, experimenting a bit, a 1/4 cup mix is what it can handle with ease and not blowing a bunch of kernels out the top once it starts to get going.

My suggestion is just to buy the 6oz version if you looking to pop a 4oz batch.

Benchmark USA really went above and beyond in customer service. When I first got the popcorn machine it was not working right. Benchmark USA and Ozone billiards partnered up and figured out the problem and sent a replacement part. The machine works great now. Thank you so much.