I really like this popcorn maker.  The color is cute and fun, and it makes a big batch of popcorn.  Homemade is so much healthier than the microwave kind as you can control all the ingredients.  Do you HAVE to have this?  No.  I used to make popcorn on the stove top and it was just fine.  But this popcorn maker does all the work for you.  We eat popcorn quite a bit in my house, so this is a fun appliance to have.  I would recommend this if you enjoy popcorn often.