Extend the Life of Your Groceries With Our Top-Tested Vacuum Sealers

✔️ Weston Compact Vacuum Sealer: This one is affordable and did a fair job in our tests, but there was some gapping around the avocado and a bit less sealing around the burger patty. It was the loudest in our test (though that's still a moderate noise level), and it requires you to press it closed during operation.

✔️ Zwilling Fresh & Save Vacuum Sealer Starter Set: Zwilling's compact handheld sealer works with a variety of bag sizes as well as a wide range of containers and canisters, which are even sold in sets like this one for bakers. Sealing in containers extends the life of leftovers and lets you store irregularly shaped, tough-to-preserve, and/or delicate foods, like crackers, brown sugar, and berries. This option also makes it easier to marinate foods under vacuum, which can speed up the time. The rechargeable device is slim enough to store on the countertop for quick access. Though it does create a lock on the lids of the branded containers, it was not the most powerful vacuum on our list.

✔️ Style: If you lack storage space, the size of a handheld machine is key, but if you rely on your food vacuum sealer often, you will likely prefer the superior performance and durability of a countertop model.

• Handheld models typically use special zip-top bags that have a small port for air removal. They're ideal for small jobs and meal prep. They're less effective at keeping air out, and you will be limited to the bag sizes offered for that device.
• Countertop models are larger and often work with both precut and cut-to-size bags. They're more versatile and provide longer-lasting results because there's no port that could allow air to enter. Most can also reseal bags, such as potato chip and cereal bags. There are also chamber vacuum sealers, which work by placing a bag of food in the chamber and closing the lid to seal it. They can handle multiple bags at once and are also good for larger foods, but they are primarily found in restaurants and are typically bigger and heavier than home models.
• Hybrid: One sealer we tested, the Food Saver Handheld+ 2-in-1 Vacuum Sealing System, is a countertop model that includes a handheld device that can be used on its own. It's a good option if you want the functionality of precut or roll bags with the quick vacuuming of a handheld model.

✔️ Functions: Consider why you want to vacuum seal foods. Do you plan to use it to help you cook sous vide? If so, make sure the bags can withstand high heat and consider a model that offers double sealing. If you often marinate foods or store liquid items, choose a machine with a moist, wet, or marinate setting (and it's a good idea to opt for a model with a roll of bags so you can create a longer pouch, which helps the machine seal wet foods more easily). If you want to store delicate items, look for a gentle or pulse setting or the ability to select a lower vacuum level.

✔️ Type of bags: Not all vacuum sealer bags are compatible with all machines, so double-check the model's specifications first. And note that handheld models generally require brand-specific bags with air-removal ports rather than cut-to-fit rolls of bag material. For sous vide cooking, use bags that are safe for high-heat use.

No, you should not use regular or freezer zip-top bags with vacuum sealers. Handheld devices are designed for use on custom vacuum bags with a specific port. It is not advised to seal zip-top bags with a countertop model either: Vacuum-sealer bags are sturdier, allowing a stronger seal that prevents leaking.

Vacuum-seal bags often have a pattern inside that helps channel air out of the bag as it is vacuumed. They may also be better able to withstand heat, which is essential for sous vide cooking.

A vacuum sealer is worth it if you buy in bulk or freeze small portions for meal prep or from a hunt. It helps most foods stay fresher longer than they would in a non-airtight container, and it also helps prevent freezer burn, which can affect taste and texture.

"I really like vacuum sealing for extending the life of food in the freezer," says Papantoniou. "I tend to vacuum seal individual portions so I can defrost them quickly, whether it’s enough food for one person or the amount I need for a recipe. This helps make meal prep easy."

Vacuum sealers are also helpful for sous vide cooking. They ensure a tight seal to prevent any liquid from entering the bag. (Be sure to choose a heat-safe bag.)

Sarah Gregory is a deputy editor for the Good Housekeeping Institute. She conducted the evaluation of these vacuum sealers and helped develop the methodology for testing. She is a trained cook and has tested numerous products for the Institute, including fish filet knives, slow cookers, and travel coffee makers.

Nicole Papantoniou is the director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab, where she oversees all content and testing related to kitchen appliances, tools, and gear. She has trained in classic culinary arts and culinary nutrition, and she uses vacuum sealers—including several on this list—regularly.