The term "popular" is used to define anything that becomes trendy with the population regardless of what it is or how quirky it might be. The term "mainstream" refers to things that are popular but which also would be considered "normal" to the general population.
Chat with our AI personalities
"Popular" typically refers to something that is liked or enjoyed by a large number of people, whereas "mainstream" refers to something that is widely accepted or followed by the majority. Something can be popular without being mainstream, and vice versa.