Microwave ovens are generally faster than regular ovens when it comes to popping corn. The exact time can vary depending on the wattage of the microwave and the specific instructions for the popcorn you are using. However, as a general guideline, it typically takes around 2-4 minutes to pop corn in a microwave.
On the other hand, using a regular oven to pop corn takes longer. It typically involves preheating the oven and then placing the popcorn kernels in a special oven-safe container or a covered baking sheet. The process can take around 10-15 minutes or even longer, depending on the temperature and specific instructions provided with the popcorn.
It's worth noting that microwave popcorn bags are specifically designed for use in a microwave and often contain special coatings or additives that help facilitate the popping process. Regular popcorn kernels may not yield satisfactory results if simply placed in a regular oven without proper preparation.