Verdict
Head-to-head · Best Vacuum Sealers

Anova Vacuum Sealer vs Nesco Deluxe Food VS-12 Vacuum Sealer

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 4.2). The gap is mostly about budget-conscious home cooks — read the strengths below before deciding.

Anova Vacuum Sealer
Higher ratedRanked #1 in Best Vacuum Sealers
Anova Vacuum Sealer
1 sourceall derived$109.99as of Aug 1

The Anova Precision Vacuum Sealer Pro ranks among the best vacuum sealers for home cooks, with a compact body and a locking handle that saves space. Reviewers praised its double-sealing technology, which holds strong, durable seals even under high water temperatures. The Pro model adds smart moist and dry mode buttons that adjust suction to the contents automatically, plus a hose port for rigid containers. Serious Eats called it a perfect choice for both occasional and frequent users, and Shouldit noted its powerful performance in dry tests, scoring 8.85/10. It works well for sous vide cooking and food storage, though it has no bag hooks and the indicator lights are dim. Home cooks who want a reliable, user-friendly appliance are the fit.

Strengths
  • Sleek and compact design with locking handle that folds flat for storage
  • Double-sealing technology with two metal bars for strong, durable seals
  • Intuitive controls with moist and dry mode buttons for automatic suction adjustment
Watch-outs
  • Relatively dim indicator lights
  • Does not come with a chime or bag hooks
Nesco Deluxe Food VS-12 Vacuum Sealer
Ranked #3 in Best Vacuum Sealers
Nesco Deluxe Food VS-12 Vacuum Sealer
3 sourcesall derived$133.99as of Aug 1

The NESCO VS-12 Deluxe runs a 130-watt double pump with dry, moist and double seal settings alongside normal and gentle vacuum pressure. Serious Eats worked it into its vacuum sealer coverage, where it held a seal through a long sous vide cook and pulled air from delicate items without crushing them. Owners single out the built-in bag cutter, roll storage and viewing lid, and the easy-lock handle that closes one-handed. The recurring complaints are the wait for the heat element between bags and a label on the handle that leaves sticky residue when peeled off.

Strengths
  • 130-Watt double vacuum pump ensures maximum air extraction for optimal sealing
  • Includes variable settings with Dry, Moist, and Double seal options plus Normal and Gentle vacuum pressure
  • Built-in bag cutter and roll storage compartment with clear viewing window for convenience
Watch-outs
  • Some users reported issues with the initial heat element warming up and machine rest time between bags
  • One reviewer noted a problematic label on the handle that leaves a gooey residue

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 is more affordable than the Pro model but lacks the hose attachment and advanced features of the Anova Precision Vacuum Sealer Pro. It's less versatile than the FoodSaver V4400, which offers a handheld sealer, but it's more compact and easier to use than the VEVOR DZ-260C.

Nesco Deluxe Food VS-12 Vacuum Sealer

The NESCO VS-12 Deluxe stands out for its 130-Watt double pump and versatile sealing options, but it falls short compared to the Anova Precision Vacuum Sealer Pro, which offers a more compact design and better double-sealing technology. Unlike the FoodSaver models, it lacks automatic bag detection and sous vide compatibility, making it less convenient for advanced users.

Specs side-by-side

SpecAnova Vacuum SealerNesco Deluxe Food VS-12 Vacuum Sealer
Power120 Volts | 60Hz | 110 Watts130 Watts
Suction Strength67 kPA25.1 InHG
Seal Settings23 (Dry, Moist, Double)
Dimensions15.5" x 7.1" x 4.3"17 × 15 × 9 in
Included Accessories1 Precision Vacuum Sealer Bag Roll, accessory air hose, user manualTwo rolls of bags (8.6" x 9.85' and 11.8" x 9.85')
Weight5 lb10 lb
MaterialPlasticPlastic
Seal Bar Lengthup to 11.8" width
Bag Width11.8 inches
← See the full ranking of best vacuum sealers