NESCO VS-12 Vacuum Sealer Review Best Compact Vacuum Sealer for Kitchen Use

Description

Strengths of the NESCO Deluxe Food VS-12 Vacuum Sealer

Testing the NESCO Deluxe Food VS-12 Vacuum Sealer revealed several standout features that made food storage a breeze and even kind of fun. The 130-watt motor with a 25.1 InHG double vacuum pump really impressed me by efficiently extracting air, especially for larger items like whole chickens or bulk veggies. I loved the fact that it offered three distinct seal settings—dry, moist, and double heat seal—which meant I could tailor the sealing process based on the food’s moisture level. The option to toggle between normal and gentle vacuum pressure was a game-changer for delicate items like berries and soft cheeses, eliminating the risk of squishing them.

The easy-lock handle deserves a shout-out too; sealing with one hand was surprisingly smooth and satisfying. I also found the built-in bag cutter and storage compartment incredibly convenient, especially since it fits any brand of bag and helps customize bag sizes. Plus, the kit comes with two rolls—one 8.6” x 9.85” and another 11.8” x 9.85”—so you’re ready to seal from the get-go.

• Powerful double vacuum pump ensures thorough air extraction
• Versatile sealing settings for different food types
• Integrated bag cutter and storage keep things tidy
• Easy one-handed locking mechanism

Drawbacks to Keep in Mind

While the vacuum sealer mostly hit the right notes, it’s not without its quirks. The unit is a bit heavier and bulkier than some other models, measuring 15.75″ long by 8″ wide and weighing around 6 pounds, which made it feel slightly cumbersome on my counter. There were times when the double heat seal setting felt a bit inconsistent, requiring a second run to get a perfect seal with very moist foods. Also, the manual operation mode means you have to keep an eye on the process, which might be inconvenient if you’re used to fully automatic sealers.

A small but notable gripe was the lack of a vacuum seal indicator light; it would’ve been nice to have a visual cue confirming the seal’s completion. Finally, despite the inclusion of the two rolls, I found myself needing more bags sooner than expected, which adds to the ongoing cost.

• Relatively heavy and takes up counter space
• Double heat seal can be inconsistent
• No vacuum seal indicator light for confirmation
• Manual operation requires monitoring

User Experience and Versatility

My family quickly became fans of this vacuum sealer, especially my partner who’s big on meal prepping. The moist and dry food settings allowed us to seal everything from raw steak to freshly washed spinach without a hitch. I even tried sealing soups and sauces, and the double heat seal helped prevent leaks, although I did have to run it twice to be safe. The ability to set the vacuum pressure to gentle was appreciated by my kids, who loved the soft texture of vacuum-sealed berries for snacks—they stayed intact and fresh longer than usual.

The compatibility with any brand of vacuum sealer bags means I’m not locked into buying proprietary bags, which is a relief. Plus, the compact silver design fit well with my kitchen’s aesthetic without screaming “clunky gadget.” I found this sealer to be a solid fit for regular household use, especially if you want to extend food freshness by up to five times compared to traditional storage.

Competing Brands and How This Model Stacks Up

Compared to other popular vacuum sealers in the market, this model holds its own but also reveals some trade-offs. For instance, brands like FoodSaver often provide fully automatic sealing and vacuuming, which can free your hands completely—something this sealer lacks due to its manual mode. However, the customizable vacuum pressure and multiple sealing options here offer more control, which I found appealing if you’re particular about food textures.

The built-in bag cutter and storage compartment are features not always found in peer devices, adding convenience and minimizing clutter. On the downside, some competitors boast smaller, lighter designs that are easier to manage and store. While those models might sacrifice a bit of power, the 130-watt motor on this sealer ensures strong suction, especially for larger food items. Safety features and energy consumption are fairly standard across the board, so no major differences there.

Price to Quality Ratio

For its features and performance, the vacuum sealer provides a solid value proposition. The inclusion of two rolls and the ability to use any brand of bags means you don’t face immediate extra expenses, but ongoing bag costs are something to budget for. The versatility in sealing options, powerful motor, and convenient design features justify the investment, especially if you regularly bulk-cook or buy food in large quantities.

This model might not be the cheapest on the market, but it definitely doesn’t feel overpriced either. Its durability and performance capabilities make it worth considering for anyone serious about reducing food waste and keeping meals fresh longer.

Design and Build Quality

The silver plastic exterior looks sleek and modern, fitting nicely into most kitchen setups without being an eyesore. It’s sturdy, though the weight felt a bit heavy during maneuvering, especially if you need to move it frequently. The compact dimensions of 15.75 inches by 8 inches by 4.5 inches make it manageable on the countertop but not pocket-sized.

The easy-lock handle mechanism felt robust and reliable, providing a satisfying “click” when sealing. The viewing lid added a nice touch, letting me monitor the sealing process visually. Storage compartments for rolls and the built-in cutter were well thought out, helping keep everything neat and accessible.

Features and Settings Deep Dive

Exploring the settings, I appreciated the three sealing modes—dry, moist, and double heat seal—which cover a wide range of food types. The double heat seal function adds an extra layer of security for liquid or high-moisture foods, reducing the chance of leaks during freezing or sous vide cooking. For delicate items, the gentle vacuum mode prevents crushing, a feature many sealers overlook.

The manual operation mode might be a drawback for some, but it gives you more control over the sealing process, which I personally liked. The built-in cutter is sharp and easy to use, allowing for custom bag sizes that matched my needs perfectly, from small snack packs to large freezer bags.

Areas for Improvement

Despite its many merits, this vacuum sealer could improve in a few areas. The lack of an automatic shut-off or seal completion indicator means you have to stay attentive during use, which isn’t ideal if multitasking in the kitchen. The weight and size might be too bulky for smaller kitchens or those who prefer ultra-compact appliances.

Another point is the inconsistent double heat seal, which sometimes required multiple attempts to secure very wet foods. Adding a more intuitive control panel or some digital feedback could elevate the user experience significantly. Lastly, it would be great if the manufacturer included more variety in bag sizes or offered reusable bags as an option to reduce waste.

Trying out the NESCO Deluxe Food VS-12 Vacuum Sealer showed me a product that balances power, versatility, and convenience well. While there are minor downsides like its bulk and manual operation, the ability to switch vacuum pressures and seal types makes it a versatile companion for any kitchen. Whether preserving delicate berries or sealing large roasts, this model handles it with a solid performance that justifies its cost.

Additional information