CNET reviews: Best vacuum packaging machines for food

The good news about vacuum packaging machines is that most of them do exactly what they promise: vacuum and pack, and any model worth its salt should at least deliver on this basic premise. Ease of use and intuitiveness, a variety of additional features, price, and the real estate required are what separate the “good” from the “great” in this category.

A vacuum sealer can serve many purposes in your kitchen. The most basic function is to preserve food for longevity; an oxygen-free environment ensures longer-lasting freshness, whether your vacuum-packed food is stored in the pantry, refrigerator, or freezer. To that end, it’s an ideal device to consider for those who do special bulk shopping or meal prep. Here are three of the best.

WHAT Nesco Deluxe VS 12

COST $144.99

CURRENTLY AVAILABLE: nesco.com

Nesco’s vacuum sealer is very budget-friendly and delivers consistent results while being incredibly easy to use. This intuitive model features a push-down handle, which is the easiest locking mechanism of any vacuum sealer on the market. You’ll also appreciate the Nesco’s display, which shows a countdown progress for each stage of vacuuming and seaming, while other higher-end models show a flashing light that you have to wait for to stop. A chamber sealer option is also available with the inclusion of a plug-in tube.

WHAT Anova Kitchen Sensitivity

COST $59.99

CURRENTLY AVAILABLE: anovaculinary.com

All of Anova’s models perform extremely well in terms of functionality and convenience. The base model has a slightly smaller footprint than the similar model from Nesco and is the quickest and easiest to install and seal, giving it an edge in the beginner vacuum sealer category. Along with its modest price and high-level functionality, it’s an ideal model for someone who has occasional vacuum sealer needs and is looking for a low-maintenance but worthwhile countertop model.

WHAT FoodSaver Premiere Multi-Purpose

COST $199.99

CURRENTLY AVAILABLE: foodsahibi.com

This slightly more expensive ovaccum sealer may be less intuitive than some of the other models on this list, but it does have one feature that makes it stand out. A drip tray is built into the mechanism to prevent small amounts of stray liquid from being sucked into the machine. The bag-cutting mechanism is also one of the easiest to use, using the device’s lid to hold the plastic in place while it’s being cut. There’s also a built-in handheld mechanism with a hose included, and it clips onto the machine to prevent you from losing it.