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.
Full review
Compact design with practical storage
The Anova Precision Vacuum Sealer Pro stands out for its remarkably compact footprint, a feature that proves especially valuable in smaller kitchens. The machine's locking handle design allows it to pack flat when not in use, eliminating the awkward protrusion common with other models. This functionality makes it ideal for storage under cabinets or in tight spaces where countertop real estate is at a premium. The unit's dimensions measure 15.5 x 7 x 4.25 inches, and it weighs just over five pounds, making it lightweight enough to move around but substantial enough to feel stable during operation. The handle folds down and locks securely, ensuring the entire unit lies flush against surfaces when idle. This design choice significantly reduces the visual and physical bulk of the appliance, which is particularly appreciated by users who value a clean, uncluttered kitchen aesthetic.
Double-seal technology for durability
Anova's implementation of double-seal technology distinguishes the Pro model from many competitors in the vacuum sealer market. The sealer employs two metal bars that heat up simultaneously to create a strong, reinforced seal on the vacuum bag. This method ensures that even under high-temperature conditions or extended immersion cooking, the seal remains intact. During testing, the Pro model demonstrated exceptional resistance to failure, with no instances of seal breach despite rigorous use in sous vide applications and prolonged exposure to hot water. The dual-bar system creates a more robust closure compared to single-bar alternatives, which often struggle with maintaining integrity when sealing liquids or subjecting sealed items to temperature extremes. This feature is particularly important for home cooks who frequently use vacuum-sealed ingredients for sous vide cooking or meal prep, as it eliminates the risk of spoilage or contamination due to seal failure.
Wet and dry modes for versatile sealing
The Pro model includes dedicated wet and dry modes, allowing users to tailor the vacuuming process based on the type of food being sealed. The wet mode is specifically designed for sealing foods with liquid content, such as sauces, soups, or marinades, where traditional suction methods might cause spillage or uneven sealing. This mode adjusts the vacuum intensity and timing to accommodate the presence of liquid, ensuring a secure seal without compromising the contents. In contrast, the dry mode is optimized for solid foods like meats, vegetables, or grains, providing a more aggressive vacuum cycle that removes air efficiently while minimizing the risk of bag damage. Users noted that the wet mode performed exceptionally well with items like tomato sauce and chicken stock, maintaining the integrity of both the bag and the food inside. The distinction between these two modes allows for greater control and adaptability, making the Pro suitable for a wide range of culinary applications.
Manual pulse option for delicate control
A notable feature of the Pro model is its manual pulse option, which gives users precise control over the vacuuming process. This function is particularly useful when dealing with delicate ingredients or liquids, where continuous suction might cause contents to shift or spill. By pressing and holding the pulse button, users can initiate vacuuming for a set period and then release to stop the process. This allows for fine-tuning of the vacuum cycle, preventing over-suction and ensuring that items like herbs, fruits, or sauces remain intact. The pulse function also enables users to gradually draw air out of the bag, reducing the risk of bag collapse or food damage. Reviewers emphasized that this feature was invaluable when sealing items with high liquid content, such as pickled vegetables or infused oils, where maintaining the shape and quality of the ingredients was essential. The ability to control the vacuuming process manually adds a level of sophistication that enhances both safety and effectiveness.
Compatibility with external accessories
The Pro model supports external accessories through a port designed for hose attachment, expanding its utility beyond standard bag sealing. This feature allows users to connect the sealer to various containers, including Mason jars and rigid plastic food storage containers, enabling them to remove excess air and extend shelf life for a broader range of food items. The hose accessory is particularly beneficial for sealing irregularly shaped items or for situations where traditional vacuum bags are impractical. Users reported that this functionality was especially useful for preserving homemade pickles, storing dry goods like rice or beans, and sealing liquids in containers that are not designed for vacuum bag use. The port's compatibility with standard hoses makes it easy to integrate with existing kitchen setups and provides flexibility in how users approach food preservation and storage.
Bag cutter and roll storage features
The inclusion of a built-in plastic roll storage and a bag cutter enhances the Pro model's usability and convenience. The roll storage compartment keeps vacuum bags organized and readily accessible, preventing them from tangling or becoming damaged during storage. This feature is particularly appreciated by users who frequently prepare meals or store large quantities of food, as it streamlines the process of selecting and preparing bags. The bag cutter, while functional, received mixed feedback. Some users found it effective for cutting standard-sized bags, but others noted that it occasionally jammed or felt flimsy during use. Despite this minor drawback, the cutter's ability to customize bag sizes was seen as a helpful addition, especially when sealing produce or other items that require precise bag dimensions. The overall design of the bag handling system contributes to a more efficient and organized user experience, reducing the time spent preparing for each sealing session.
Performance in sous vide and meal prep
The Pro model excels in sous vide cooking applications, where airtight sealing is crucial for maintaining food quality and safety. Users consistently praised its ability to create reliable, leak-proof seals that withstand the rigors of immersion cooking. The machine's performance with sous vide cooking was particularly evident in its handling of delicate proteins like fish or eggs, where the double-seal technology prevented any leakage or contamination. The wet mode's effectiveness in sealing liquid-rich foods made it a favorite among users who frequently prepare soups or sauces. Additionally, the Pro's compatibility with various food storage containers and its pulse function made it ideal for meal prep, where users could seal large quantities of ingredients for later use. The machine's consistent performance across multiple sealing tasks, including both dry and wet ingredients, demonstrated its versatility and reliability in a home kitchen environment.
User-friendly interface and operation
The Pro model features a straightforward interface with three main buttons: vacuum, seal, and pulse, making it easy for users to navigate and operate. The simplicity of the controls allows even novice users to quickly learn how to use the device effectively. The machine's operation is intuitive, with clear visual indicators for each step of the sealing process. Users appreciated the straightforward process of placing a bag in the chamber, selecting the appropriate mode, and initiating the cycle. The lid handle's secure locking mechanism ensures that the chamber remains sealed during operation, preventing accidental opening or spillage. The absence of complex settings or confusing menus contributes to a seamless user experience, particularly for those who prefer minimal technical involvement in their kitchen appliances. The overall ease of use, combined with its robust performance, makes the Pro model suitable for both casual and frequent users.
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
- +Includes a port for hose accessory to seal rigid containers like Mason jars
Watch-outs
- −More expensive than basic vacuum sealer models
- −Not suitable for very large food items due to chamber size limitations
How it compares
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.
Rating sources
“The Anova Precision Pro is one of the best vacuum sealers we have ever tested.”
“Worth its weight in gold for the practical cook who wants to feel confident about putting good food on the table.”
“The best vacuum sealer for sous vide cooking: Anova Precision Chamber Vacuum Sealer”
“chamber sealers have been invaluable to professional chefs because they achieve a reliable air tight mess-free seal”
Our 4.5 score is the average of the 3 scored reviews above; 1 more reviewed it without printing a score and is not in the average. Ratings marked * were derived from the reviewer’s written analysis or video transcript — the publisher didn’t print an explicit numeric score, so we inferred one from their own words. Click through to verify. More about methodology.
