Nesco VS-12 Vacuum Sealer Review Best Compact Kitchen Appliance for Freshness

Description

Practical Design and Build Quality

The NESCO Deluxe Food VS-12 Vacuum Sealer immediately feels like a sturdy, compact machine meant for frequent use in any kitchen. Its sleek silver finish and compact dimensions make it both visually appealing and easy to store. Weighing in at around 6 pounds, it’s lightweight enough to move around but solid enough to stay put during operation. The built-in bag cutter and roll storage compartment are incredibly convenient, eliminating the need for additional tools cluttering up the workspace. I appreciated the clear viewing window, which lets you see exactly how much bag material you’re working with—a small but significant feature.

Ease of Use and Operation

Using this vacuum sealer is almost ridiculously simple, thanks to its easy-lock handle that allows for smooth one-handed operation. I tested it on everything from dry snacks like crackers to moist foods like marinated chicken, and switching between dry, moist, and double settings was seamless. The inclusion of normal and gentle vacuum pressure options is a thoughtful touch, especially for delicate items like bread or berries. There’s no need to worry about crushing softer foods, which is something I’ve struggled with in other models.

The controls are intuitive, and the manual operation mode offers just the right amount of user control without being overly complicated. Even if you’re not particularly tech-savvy, this machine is straightforward enough to get the hang of quickly.

Key Benefits

• Three sealing settings (dry, moist, double) cater to a wide range of food types.
• Gentle vacuum pressure option for soft or delicate items.
• Built-in bag cutter and storage for added convenience.
• Double heat seal ensures a more secure lock for liquid-based foods.

Performance: How Well Does It Seal?

This vacuum sealer performs exceptionally well, thanks to its 130-watt motor and 25.1 InHG double vacuum pump. It creates a tight, reliable seal every time, even with bulkier items like steaks or large batches of vegetables. I tested the double heat seal feature with moist foods like soups and found the added strength reassuring. Nothing leaked, even after some jostling in the freezer.

The machine claims to keep food fresh up to five times longer than traditional storage methods, and while I haven’t measured exact timeframes, I can confirm that my sealed foods stayed fresher for noticeably longer periods. The included bag rolls—an 8.6” x 9.85’ roll and an 11.8” x 9.85’ roll—are a great starter kit, and the fact that the vacuum sealer is compatible with any brand of bags adds a layer of flexibility.

Boons

• Seals large and small items efficiently, with no air pockets.
• Keeps food fresh for significantly longer periods.
• Handles both wet and dry items without issue.

Potential Caveats

There are a few things to keep in mind. While the manual operation mode is great for those who like control, it might require a bit of a learning curve for first-time users. The machine can also feel a bit bulky for smaller kitchens, even though it’s compact compared to other models.

• Can take some time to master manual operation for beginners.
• Slightly larger footprint compared to ultra-compact models.

Competing Products

When compared to other vacuum sealers like the FoodSaver FM5200 or the NutriChef Automatic Sealer, this model holds its own in terms of versatility and durability. The FoodSaver offers a sleeker design but lacks the detailed sealing options like double heat seal and gentle pressure. On the other hand, the NutriChef is more affordable but doesn’t provide the same level of performance or sturdiness.

Where this vacuum sealer really shines is its ability to handle a variety of food types with precision. While other brands may excel in one or two areas, this machine offers a well-rounded experience with features like the built-in bag cutter, storage compartment, and multiple pressure settings.

Smart Spending

Given its impressive performance and versatility, this vacuum sealer offers excellent value for money. While it’s not the cheapest option on the market, the robust construction and thoughtful features justify the investment. It’s particularly well-suited for people who vacuum seal frequently or across a wide range of food types.

For anyone who’s tired of wasting food or dealing with freezer burn, this product is a game-changer. Considering the longer shelf life it provides for both dry and moist foods, the savings on groceries alone make it worth the cost.

Whether you’re sealing bulk purchases, prepping meals ahead of time, or simply trying to keep snacks fresh, this vacuum sealer delivers. It’s not perfect, but the key features and reliable performance far outweigh its minor shortcomings.

Additional information