You have obviously been on a quest for the perfect pop for some time. How disappointing it must be that no gadget is better than any other! I use a saucepan with a lid. No measuring involved, remove popped corn and melt the butter in the same still hot pot, easy clean up.
You are still very funny I see!
The automatic popping appliances are great for parties and are usually worth at least a few moments of "Oooooh" and "Aaaah" responses. Beyond that they need to stay off the countertops. They're huge!