Keeping food fresh for longer is a universal kitchen goal, reducing waste and saving money. Handheld vacuum sealers offer a compact and convenient solution, moving beyond bulky countertop models. They are perfect for quickly sealing leftovers, meal-prepping portions, or preserving bulk purchases without taking up precious drawer or counter space.
Whether you’re into sous vide cooking, want to keep your snacks crisp, or are looking to extend the life of your fresh produce, there’s a model designed for your needs. From simple manual pumps to advanced electric sealers with multiple functions, the right handheld vacuum sealer can become an indispensable tool in your culinary arsenal. The following roundup highlights the best options available to help you make an informed choice.
The Best Handheld Vacuum Sealers for Your Kitchen
- Compact Handheld Vacuum Sealer for Food
- MXRJUWM Electric Handheld Vacuum Sealer with Bags
- 23-in-1 Handheld Vacuum Sealer Set with Accessories
- EZCO Mini 2-in-1 Bag Sealer and Cutter
- FoodSaver V4400 2-in-1 Vacuum Sealer Machine
- Nesco Deluxe VS-12 Vacuum Sealer
- Anova Culinary Precision Vacuum Sealer Pro
- NutriChef Automatic Food Vacuum Sealer
- Etunsia Cordless Vacuum Sealer Machine with Kit
- GERYON Electric Portable Vacuum Food Sealer
Compact Handheld Vacuum Sealer for Food
This vacuum sealer is designed for efficiency and space-saving. It effectively keeps a wide variety of foods fresh, including fruits, vegetables, seafood, meat, and nuts, without requiring a permanent spot on your countertop. Its compact form factor makes it easy to store in a drawer when not in use.
Ideal for smaller kitchens or for those who need a secondary, portable sealing option, this model focuses on straightforward functionality. It provides a simple way to reduce food waste and manage storage, making it a practical addition to any household focused on freshness.
MXRJUWM Electric Handheld Vacuum Sealer with Bags
This model features an upgraded one-touch vacuum function, eliminating the need for manual pumping. The powerful electric pump works efficiently and conveniently, automatically shutting off when the optimal vacuum pressure is reached. For more control, it also includes a manual mode to meet special pumping needs.
Its USB-rechargeable design offers significant portability, allowing you to power it from a computer, power bank, or standard charger. The LED battery indicator lets you monitor the charge level, and a full charge provides over two hours of operation. This makes it an excellent choice for use in various settings, from the kitchen to camping trips.
23-in-1 Handheld Vacuum Sealer Set with Accessories
This comprehensive set includes everything you need to start vacuum sealing immediately. You receive the handheld sealer, 15 reusable bags, a vacuum wine stopper, and both sealing and sous vide clips. This variety helps save time and money by covering multiple food storage scenarios in one package.
The device is compact and user-friendly, with a detachable suction nozzle for easy cleaning. It features an easy one-touch system that can fully remove air in just 5-7 seconds before automatically stopping. Offering flexible power options, it can run on batteries or an AC adapter, providing full mobility within your kitchen and beyond.
EZCO Mini 2-in-1 Bag Sealer and Cutter
This versatile tool combines a bag sealer and a cutter in one compact, handheld device. Constructed from high-quality ABS material, it is a great helper for home, travel, camping, and more. The dual-head design is straightforward: one end for sealing bags and the other for cutting them open.
It helps avoid waste and prevent mold growth by keeping food fresh. The sealer works on a variety of plastic bags, such as chip bags and pet food bags, with a recommended thickness of 0.3mm or less. An updated technical feature allows it to seal without any preheating time, providing an instant, airtight seal with a simple sliding motion.
FoodSaver V4400 2-in-1 Vacuum Sealer Machine
As a more substantial option, the FoodSaver V4400 is a 2-in-1 machine that helps save money by locking in freshness. It can preserve meat in the freezer for extended periods while protecting it from freezer burn. The system also keeps fridge-stored leftovers and produce fresh for weeks instead of days.
Automatic bag detection makes the vacuum sealing process exceptionally easy; you simply place the bag in the vacuum chamber and the machine handles the rest. Built-in roll storage and a cutter let you create custom-sized bags for any item, while LED light indicators guide you through each step of the process seamlessly.
Nesco Deluxe VS-12 Vacuum Sealer
The Nesco Deluxe VS-12 delivers optimal performance with its 130-watt, double vacuum pump. This powerful pump ensures maximum air extraction, which is particularly effective when sealing larger food items. The robust construction is designed for reliable, long-term use in a busy kitchen.
It offers variable settings to handle different types of food, including dry, moist, and a double seal option. You can also select between normal and gentle vacuum pressure to protect delicate, soft foods from being crushed. The easy-lock handle facilitates smooth, one-handed operation, making the sealing process quick and effortless.
Anova Culinary Precision Vacuum Sealer Pro
This model is a robust vacuum sealer designed for full functionality with just one hand. Clamping bags, vacuuming, and sealing are all easily accomplished single-handedly. It features a high-power vacuum, a reliable double sealer, and built-in bag storage with a cutter for convenience.
A standout feature is its marinate-friendly wet function. This mode activates a low-pressure suction paired with the double sealer, allowing you to securely seal even the juiciest foods without liquid interference. This makes it an ideal companion for sous vide cooking and preserving moist leftovers.
NutriChef Automatic Food Vacuum Sealer
The NutriChef vacuum sealer uses lab-tested technology to lock in freshness and significantly extend the shelf life of your food. By removing air and preventing freezer burn, it preserves flavor and texture, which helps reduce food waste and save money over time. It is effective for a wide range of items, from meats and vegetables to pre-portioned meals.
This machine is remarkably easy to use, featuring a top panel control center with soft-touch buttons and clear LED indicator lights. It offers customizable sealing modes to ensure a perfect, airtight seal for both dry snacks and moist leftovers, making it a great choice for beginners and experienced meal preppers alike.
Etunsia Cordless Vacuum Sealer Machine with Kit
This cordless vacuum sealer offers enhanced vacuum power, achieving a strong seal in just 5-12 seconds to extend food freshness by up to eight times. It includes an external suction hose and vacuum accessory for use with mason jars, containers, and wine bottles, providing versatile preservation options beyond standard bags.
It ensures professional-grade sealing with a double seal for 100% preservation. The device features automatic and manual modes, plus a “seal only” function for resealing bags of chips to maintain crispness. The comprehensive kit includes attachments for both regular and wide-mouth mason jars, adding significant value and functionality.
GERYON Electric Portable Vacuum Food Sealer
The GERYON Electric Portable Vacuum Food Sealer is designed for those who need a reliable and mobile sealing solution. Its portable design does not compromise on power, providing effective air removal to keep your food fresh for longer periods. This can help reduce spoilage and is useful for a variety of foods.
Ideal for home kitchens, travel, or outdoor activities, this sealer offers the convenience of electric operation in a compact form. It represents a straightforward approach to vacuum sealing, focusing on core functionality to meet everyday food storage needs without complicated settings or a large footprint.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Handheld Vacuum Sealer
I’ve been using handheld vacuum sealers for years to manage my groceries and leftovers, and I can tell you they are a game-changer for kitchen organization. But not all models are created equal. If you’re looking at the 10 best handheld vacuum sealers for food, you need to know what separates a good one from a great one. Here’s my personal guide on what to look for.
First, consider the power source. This is a big one. Most handheld sealers are either battery-powered (usually rechargeable) or use standard electrical outlets. Battery-powered ones offer fantastic portability. I can take it to the pantry, the garage freezer, or even on a camping trip. The trade-off is that you have to remember to keep it charged. Plug-in models never run out of juice mid-seal, which is a relief, but you’re tethered to an outlet. Some of the best models offer both options, giving you the flexibility to use it however you want.
Next, think about the bags. Are you okay with buying proprietary bags, or do you want the freedom to use any brand? Many manufacturers design their sealers to work only with their specific bags, which have a special textured surface for the vacuum channel. This can get expensive over time. I always look for a sealer that is compatible with affordable, readily available bags, or better yet, one that can work with both textured and smooth bags. This small detail can save you a lot of money and hassle.
Noise level is something many people don’t consider until it’s too late. These are not silent machines. I’ve had some that sound like a small jet engine, which is startling in a quiet kitchen. If you have a sleeping baby or easily-spooked pets, look for reviews that specifically mention noise. Quieter operation is a sign of better build quality.
Finally, pay attention to the build and ergonomics. A handheld vacuum sealer should feel comfortable in your hand, not clunky or awkward. Check the weight and the button placement. Is it easy to hold and press with one hand? Also, look at the construction of the sealing strip and the lid. A flimsy latch will break after a few months of regular use. A well-built sealer feels solid and should last you for many years of preserving your food.
FAQ
Can I use a handheld vacuum sealer for liquids?
This is a tricky one. Most basic handheld vacuum sealers are not designed for liquid-heavy foods like soups or stews. The liquid can get sucked into the vacuum mechanism and break the device. For items with some moisture, like marinated meat, I place the bag in a bowl or tray to catch any potential spills and stop the vacuum process just before the liquid reaches the top. For true liquids, I freeze them first in a container and then vacuum seal the solid block.
Are the bags reusable?
Generally, no. The sealing process melts the plastic to create an airtight bond. To reopen the bag, you have to cut it, which destroys its ability to be re-sealed. While you can’t use the same bag for vacuum sealing again, I often wash and reuse the bags for non-food items or for dry goods that don’t require a vacuum, just to reduce waste.
How long do the batteries typically last?
It varies a lot by model and battery quality. On a full charge, a good lithium-ion battery in one of the better handheld vacuum sealers for food should give you around 20 to 30 seals. Cheaper models with lower-quality batteries might only manage 10-15. I always recommend looking for a model that has a clear battery indicator light, so you’re never caught off guard with a dead sealer right when you need it.
What types of food are best for vacuum sealing?
I use mine for almost everything dry or solid. It’s perfect for portioning out bulk meats, cheese, coffee beans, nuts, and grains. It’s also fantastic for meal prepping—I’ll cook a large batch of chicken breasts or vegetables, portion them out, and seal them for quick lunches all week. It dramatically extends the freezer life and prevents freezer burn.
Is it worth buying a more expensive model?
In my experience, yes, to a point. The cheapest models often have weak suction, break easily, and require expensive proprietary bags. Spending a bit more usually gets you a more powerful motor, a sturdier build, and better compatibility with bag types. You don’t need the absolute most expensive one, but avoiding the bargain-bin options will save you frustration and money in the long run.