We’re passionate about reviewing and finding the best kitchen equipment in every category (we’re a little bit nerdy in that way). Our rigorously-tested kitchen equipment has been purchased by many readers looking for rice cookers, steamer baskets, and even silicone air fryer liners—seriously useful, btw. But the most-purchased kitchen tool on our site is far and away a…vacuum sealer.
The Best Vacuum Sealer, According to Our Tests
Surprised? We were, too. The Nesco Deluxe VS-12 Vacuum Sealer earned the title of the Best Overall Vacuum Sealer in our review, and it’s been purchased by thousands of our readers. It earned a perfect 5/5 score on Performance and Suction Power, and we especially appreciated the varied settings for precise sealing. You can choose from dry and moist foods, as well as create a super powerful double heat-seal. The option for normal and gentle seal power, an intuitive user interface, and an attractive price all add to the high-value quality of this Amazon find.
We liked that two rolls of bags—in two different sizes—are included. We really liked that this sealer is compatible with other brands of bags, so you don’t need to worry about finding a specific type when it’s time to order replacements. But the question remains: do YOU need a vacuum sealer? Honestly: yes, you do. And it’s not just for food.
What Can a Vacuum Sealer Do?
Vacuum sealers used to be highly specialized kitchen equipment. But as they’ve gone down in price, they’re much more accessible to the home cook. And with good reason: “They can be incredibly useful kitchen tools,” write Mary Kate Hoban and Jason Horn, in our review. If you’re on the fence about whether to invest in a vacuum sealer, just consider all the things it can do:
1. Cook sous vide food.
A vacuum-sealed bag is helpful for cooking with an immersion circulator (a.k.a. cooking sous vide). Although a basic zip-top bag will work, we much prefer to reliability of a vacuum sealed bag to keep water out.
2. Prevent freezer burn.
A tightly sealed bag is much more effective at freezing leftovers or preserved foods than food storage containers, and even freezer-specific zip-top bags.
3. Keep foods from going stale.
Made too many cookies? Don’t put them in a cookie jar! Instead, vacuum sealing them will keep them much fresher for longer. After all, air is what expedites the deterioration of fresh foods.
4. Quick-infuse or marinate food.
No time to let a marinade do its thing? By adding your marinade and meat or veggies to a bag and vacuum sealing it, you’ll expedite the infusion process.
