What Is The Best Vacuum Sealer

If you’re looking to keep food fresh for months, save money, and reduce waste, you’re probably asking what is the best vacuum sealer. The answer depends on your specific needs, as the best machine for a busy family differs from the ideal choice for a hunter or someone with a tiny kitchen. This guide will help you understand the different types, key features, and top models so you can make a confident choice.

Vacuum sealers remove air from a special plastic bag and then seal it shut. This process, called vacuum sealing, dramatically slows down food spoilage. It prevents freezer burn, locks in flavors, and can even be used for marinating or sous vide cooking.

There isn’t one single “best” vacuum sealer for everyone. Instead, the best one is the model that fits your budget, kitchen space, and how you plan to use it. We’ll break down the main categories to help you narrow it down.

Types of Vacuum Sealers

There are three primary designs, each with pros and cons.

External (Suction) Sealers

These are the most common countertop models. They have a vacuum channel inside that sucks air out of the bag through a textured area near the seal. They are versatile and affordable.

Pros: Handles both dry and moist foods well with the right bags. Often have accessory ports for containers or jars. Generally more affordable.
Cons: Can struggle with very fine powders or liquids if they get into the channel. The sealing strip is inside the machine.

Chamber Vacuum Sealers

These are professional-grade machines. You place the entire bag inside a chamber, close the lid, and the machine removes all air from the chamber itself.

Pros: Excellent for liquids, soups, and marinades. Seals any bag material, including cheaper pouch rolls. Creates a stronger vacuum.
Cons: Much larger, heavier, and significantly more expensive. Bags are limited by chamber size.

Handheld / Portable Sealers

These are small, battery-powered devices that seal pre-made bags or containers. They are not true vacuum sealers for food preservation.

Pros: Compact, great for travel or sealing snacks. Very low cost.
Cons: Weak suction, not for long-term food storage. Bags are often proprietary and expensive.

Key Features to Consider

Once you know the type, look at these important features.

Seal Bar Quality and Number

A good seal is everything. Look for a wide, heated seal bar. Some models have double or even triple seal bars for extra reliability, which is a great feature if you seal liquids frequently.

Vacuum Strength and Settings

Power is measured in metrics like inches of Hg (mercury). Most home units are sufficient. More important is having adjustable settings—a gentle “soft” vacuum for delicate items like bread or berries, and a “moist” setting that slows down suction to prevent liquid pull-in.

Bag Compatibility and Roll Storage

Can you use both pre-cut bags and rolls? Using rolls is far more economical and lets you make custom-sized bags. A built-in cutter and bag storage compartment are incredibly convenient features that save counter space.

Ease of Cleaning

Spills happen. A drip tray that removes for washing is essential. Look for a smooth, sealed surface without hard-to-reach crevices where food juice can get stuck and become a hygiene issue.

Additional Functions

Accessory Port: Allows you to vacuum seal mason jar attachments or vacuum canisters for dry goods.
Pulse/Manual Mode: Gives you full control over the vacuum process.
Bag Detection: The machine automatically starts when it senses a bag is inserted.

Top Contenders in Different Categories

Based on reviews and reliability, here are some standout models.

Best Overall External Sealer: Nesco VS-12

It consistently gets high marks for its balance of price, performance, and features. It has a powerful vacuum, a wide seal bar, an integrated bag cutter and storage, and a handy accessory port. It’s a workhorse for most household needs without a huge price tag.

Best for Heavy Use & Liquids: VacMaster VP215

This is a popular chamber vacuum sealer for serious home users. It handles liquids effortlessly, uses inexpensive bag material, and is built to last. It’s an investment, but for those who process a lot of garden harvest, bulk meat, or use sous vide often, it’s worth it.

Best Budget-Friendly Pick: FoodSaver FM2000

FoodSaver is a well-known brand, and this model offers reliable basic functionality at a low cost. It gets the job done for occasional users who mainly want to prevent freezer burn on meats and vegetables. It may lack some bells and whistles, but it’s a solid entry point.

Best for Compact Kitchens: Geryon Electric Sealer

This slimline external sealer is surprisingly capable for its size. It doesn’t have built-in storage for rolls, but its footprint is small. It’s a good option for apartment dwellers or those with limited counter space who still want effective vacuum sealing.

How to Use Your Vacuum Sealer Effectively

Getting good results requires a little technique. Follow these steps.

Prep Your Food: Blanch vegetables before sealing for best texture. Pat meats and fish very dry with a paper towel. For soups or stews, freeze them flat in the bag first, then vacuum seal (this is called the “double-bag” method).
Choose the Right Bag: Use pre-cut bags for single items or rolls for custom sizes. Leave enough space (about 3 inches) above the food for the sealing process.
Seal the Bag: Place the open end of the bag over the vacuum channel and inside the seal bar area. Close the lid firmly. Select your setting (dry/moist/soft) and press the button.
Listen and Watch: The machine will suck out the air and then heat-seal the bag. Wait for it to finish completely before opening the lid.
Check the Seal: Gently press on the bag to ensure it’s tight and the seal looks smooth and solid, not wrinkled.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overfilling the Bag: This prevents a proper seal. Leave ample room.
Getting Food Residue on the Seal Bar: Wipe the inside of the bag’s opening clean. Even a tiny crumb can ruin the seal.
Using the Wrong Setting: Using “dry” on a moist item can pull liquid into the machine, potentially damaging it.
Not Storing Properly: Always label your bags with the contents and date. First in, first out!

Creative Uses Beyond Freezing Food

Your sealer isn’t just for the freezer. Here’s some other ideas.

Sous Vide Cooking: This is a precise method of cooking food in a temperature-controlled water bath. Vacuum sealing is the preferred way to package the food for cooking.
Marinating Meat: Vacuum sealing pulls marinade into the meat in minutes instead of hours.
Protecting Important Documents: Seal passports, deeds, or photos from water damage.
Organizing Travel Kits: Make single-use bags of toiletries, first-aid supplies, or snacks.
Preserving Seasonal Items: Seal away holiday decorations or winter blankets to save space and keep them dust-free.

Maintenance and Care Tips

Take care of your machine, and it will last for years.

Always unplug it before cleaning.
Wipe down the exterior and interior after each use, especially the seal bar area.
Empty and wash the drip tray regularly.
Run a damp cloth along the vacuum channel to remove any debris.
If the seal bar gets stained, you can gently clean it with a soft cloth and a bit of vinegar when the machine is cool.
Store the unit in a clean, dry place. Don’t wrap the cord too tightly around it.

FAQ Section

Are vacuum sealers worth the money?

Yes, if you buy in bulk, grow your own food, hunt or fish, or simply want to reduce food waste. The savings on groceries and the reduction in thrown-away food often pay for the machine and bags within a year.

What is the best vacuum sealer for home use?

For most homes, a reliable external sealer like the Nesco VS-12 or a mid-range FoodSaver model offers the best balance of performance, price, and size. It handles 95% of typical kitchen tasks.

Can you reuse vacuum sealer bags?

It’s not generally recommended for food safety reasons, especially after sealing raw meats. However, you can carefully wash and reuse bags that held dry, non-perishable items, but inspect the seal thoroughly each time.

How long does vacuum sealed food last?

It varies. In the freezer, meat can last 2-3 years instead of 6-9 months. In the fridge, cooked meals might last 1-2 weeks instead of 3-4 days. Always use your best judgement and check for off smells or colors.

Do I need special bags for my vacuum sealer?

For external sealers, yes, you need bags with a textured surface on one side to allow air to escape. Chamber sealers can use smooth, much cheaper bags. Using generic bags not designed for your machine can void the warranty and cause poor seals.

What’s the difference between a vacuum sealer and a bag sealer?

A bag sealer just heat-seals the top of a bag shut, like a chip clip. A vacuum sealer actively removes the air before sealing, which is what provides the long-term preservation benefits. Some vacuum sealers have a “seal only” function too.

My sealer isn’t creating a strong vacuum. What’s wrong?

First, check for a simple blockage in the vacuum channel. Ensure the bag is placed correctly and isn’t overfilled. The seal bar might also be worn out or dirty. Consult your manual for troubleshooting specific to your model.

Choosing the right vacuum sealer comes down to matching the machine to your lifestyle. Think about how often you’ll use it, what foods you’ll seal most, and the space you have available. By considering the types and features we’ve outlined, you can find a model that will serve you well for many years, helping you save money and eat better. Start by making a list of your must-have features, and you’ll be on your way to answering the question of what is the best vacuum sealer for you.