Verdict
Head-to-head · Best Vacuum Sealers

Anova Vacuum Sealer vs Nesco VS 12 Deluxe

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

Verdict is reader-supported. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Some links on this page are affiliate links — if you click through and buy, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our ratings are sourced from independent publications, not sponsors.
The short answer

Anova Vacuum Sealer comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.5 vs 4.3). The gap is mostly about video-first hybrid creators — read the strengths below before deciding.

Anova Vacuum Sealer
Higher ratedRanked #2 in Best Vacuum Sealers
Anova Vacuum Sealer
4 sourcesall derived$79.99as of Aug 13

The Anova Precision Vacuum Sealer Pro stands out as the best overall vacuum sealer tested by Serious Eats, offering a compact design with locking handles that save space when not in use. Its double-sealing technology ensures strong, durable seals even under high-temperature conditions, making it ideal for immersion cooking. The inclusion of a port for hose accessories allows sealing of rigid containers like Mason jars, expanding its utility. While more expensive than basic models, it delivers professional-grade performance in a home-friendly package. Those seeking a versatile, reliable vacuum sealer for both storage and cooking will find this model particularly well-suited.

Strengths
  • Sleek, compact design with locking handles that fold flat for storage
  • Double-sealing technology with metal bars for strong, reliable seals
  • Works well under high water temperatures and during immersion cooking
Watch-outs
  • More expensive than basic vacuum sealer models
  • Not suitable for very large food items due to chamber size limitations
Nesco VS 12 Deluxe
Ranked #5 in Best Vacuum Sealers
Nesco VS 12 Deluxe
3 sourcesall derived$133.99as of Aug 13

The NESCO VS 12 Deluxe received strong endorsement from fishingtoys reviewer Capt. Mike Schoonfeld, who tested it extensively with 32 meal-sized portions of fish, duck, and venison over several weeks. The machine's two-stage pump and automatic switching to sealing phase produced perfect results consistently. Good Housekeeping magazine rated it #1 in head-to-head tests against nine other brands. However, YouTube reviewer noted that the unit overheats quickly under high-volume use and requires manual bag handling. This sealer is ideal for serious home users who want reliable, long-term food storage but may not suit heavy commercial use.

Strengths
  • Produces perfect seals every time based on extended testing with 32 meal-sized portions
  • Two-stage vacuum pump that automatically switches to sealing phase after vacuuming
  • Double seal mode recommended for moist products like fish and venison
Watch-outs
  • Machine overheats quickly when used at high volume
  • Requires manual bag cutting and positioning for each use

Derived means the reviewer published no score, so one was inferred from their written verdict. Everything else is a number the publisher printed. How we rank.

How they stack up

Anova Vacuum Sealer

The Anova Vacuum Sealer excels with its sleek, compact design and double-sealing technology, but it's more expensive than the FoodSaver Vacuum Sealer Machine which offers more included accessories. Unlike the Nesco VS-12 Deluxe, it features a port for hose accessories to seal rigid containers like Mason jars, making it more versatile for various kitchen tasks.

Nesco VS 12 Deluxe

The NESCO VS 12 Deluxe delivers perfect seals with its two-stage vacuum pump and automatic switching to sealing phase, but it overheats quickly under high-volume use unlike the Anova Precision Vacuum Sealer Pro which offers better heat management and double-sealing technology. Compared to the FoodSaver V4400 2-in-1, it lacks multi-function capabilities but provides more consistent sealing performance.

Specs side-by-side

SpecAnova Vacuum SealerNesco VS 12 Deluxe
Power Source120 Volts | 60Hz | 110 WattsElectric
Sealing ModeDouble-seal metal barsDouble seal
FunctionsStorage, preservation, immersion cooking3 Seal settings—Dry, Moist, and Double, with Normal or Gentle vacuum pressure
AccessoriesWorks with standard vacuum bags and hose accessoryBuilt-in storage & cutter for bag rolls, two rolls included
Vacuum SettingsDry and MoistTwo-stage
MaterialPlasticPlastic
Dimensions16.73"L x 4.8"W x 3.14"H15.75"L x 8"W x 4.5"H
← See the full ranking of best vacuum sealers