Nesco Vs. 12 Deluxe Vacuum Sealer: Which One Is Better?

I’ve spent years preserving food at home, from bulk meats after hunting trips to garden harvests that need to last through winter. Vacuum sealers changed everything for me, keeping freezer burn away and flavors locked in. Today, I’m comparing the Nesco Deluxe Vacuum Sealer and the Nesco VS-12 Deluxe Vacuum Sealer—wait, that’s the same machine! The Nesco VS-12 is the full name of the Deluxe model. People often just call it the Nesco vacuum sealer or the VS-12 Deluxe. So this comparison pits my long-term experience with this exact model against itself in different use cases to help you decide if it’s the right one for your kitchen. My goal here is to give you a real, honest breakdown so you can pick the best fit for preserving food longer and wasting less.

A Brief Comparison Table Nesco Vs 12 Deluxe

My Experience With Nesco Vs-12 Deluxe

I remember unboxing my Nesco VS-12 Deluxe a few years back.

It felt solid right away, with that easy-lock handle that doesn’t require pressing down hard like older models I tried.

The first thing I sealed was a big batch of venison steaks from a successful hunt.

I chose the moist setting because meat always has some juices, switched to normal vacuum pressure, and watched through the viewing lid as air pulled out fast.

The double seal option gave me extra peace of mind—no leaks after months in the freezer.

What surprised me most was the pulse function. I had fresh berries that I didn’t want crushed. Tapping the pulse button let me control suction perfectly; the berries stayed whole, and the bag sealed tight without any mess.

I’ve used it for everything since—portioning chicken breasts bought on sale, sealing garden zucchini slices, even marinating ribs quickly with the accessory port and a canister (borrowed a FoodSaver hose since it fits).

The built-in roll storage and cutter make custom bags a breeze; no more hunting for scissors mid-project.

One weekend, I prepped a week’s worth of sous vide meals. The gentle mode handled delicate salmon fillets beautifully, and the strong suction removed air completely for even cooking.

It’s noisy during operation, but the cycle finishes quick, so it never bothers me much.

Overall, this machine became my go-to because it handles real-life kitchen chaos—juicy meats, soft fruits, dry pantry items—without fuss. It’s saved me hundreds on groceries by letting me buy in bulk and freeze confidently.

Also read: Comparison of Ryobi And DeWalt Pressure Washer

Pros Of Nesco Vs-12 Deluxe

• Strong Suction Power → The dual pump pulls impressive vacuum, hitting high kPa levels that remove nearly all air, even from moist foods. I’ve tested it side by side with cheaper sealers, and bags come out tighter, meaning longer freshness and no freezer burn on steaks stored for six months.
• Versatile Settings → Options like dry, moist, double seal, normal, gentle, and pulse give total control. I love switching to gentle for bakery items or soft produce; it prevents crushing while still sealing securely.
• Built-in Convenience Features → The roll storage holds standard bags, and the cutter slices clean every time. No more cluttered counters with separate rolls and tools—it streamlines the whole process.
• Bag Compatibility → It works with any textured vacuum bag brand, including cheaper generics. I’ve used off-brand rolls without issues, saving money over proprietary bags.
• Easy-Lock Handle → One-handed operation feels sturdy and reliable. No more wrestling with side latches that wear out.
• Viewing Lid and Progress Indicators → Watching the process and seeing the countdown reduces guesswork. I know exactly when it’s done, avoiding over-vacuuming.
• Double Seal Option → Extra security for long-term storage or liquids. My sealed soups and marinades hold up perfectly.
• Accessory Port → Compatible with jar sealers and canisters for non-bag items. It’s great for pickling or marinating faster.

Cons Of Nesco Vs-12 Deluxe

• Non-Removable Drip Tray → Liquids can collect in the tray, and since it’s fixed, cleaning requires careful sponging. I’ve had to tip it gently to avoid spills after juicy meats.
• Noise Level → The dual pump is powerful but loud during vacuuming. It startles my dog every time, though cycles are short.
• Size and Weight → It’s bulky for small counters and heavier than basic models. I keep mine stored in a cabinet, but pulling it out takes effort.
• Potential Durability Issues → Some users report gasket wear or vacuum stopping early after heavy use. Mine has held up, but I avoid back-to-back seals without cooldowns.
• No Automatic Bag Detection → You manually start each cycle. Higher-end models sense the bag and begin automatically—here, it’s button presses every time.
• Limited Included Accessories → Comes with starter rolls but no hose or canisters. I bought extras separately.
• Heat-Up Time Between Seals → Needs brief pauses for the bar to cool, slowing big batches slightly.
• Occasional Seal Failures with Very Wet Foods → Moist mode helps, but extreme liquids can still cause incomplete vacuums if not positioned perfectly.

Maintenance Tips For Nesco Vs-12 Deluxe

• Clean After Every Use → Wipe the sealing bar and gasket with a damp cloth to remove residue. Food bits build up and weaken seals over time.
• Empty Drip Tray Regularly → Tip out any liquids carefully. Use a soft sponge for stubborn spots—avoid abrasives that scratch.
• Allow Cooldown Periods → Wait 20-30 seconds between seals. This prevents overheating and extends the machine’s life.
• Store Properly → Keep the lid unlocked in storage to avoid compressing the gasket. I place mine upright in a dry cabinet.
• Check Gaskets Periodically → Inspect for cracks or wear. Replacements are cheap and easy to swap.
• Use Correct Bag Placement → Align the bag end straight in the chamber. Crooked placement causes leaks or weak seals.
• Avoid Overfilling Bags → Leave enough space at the top. It ensures proper vacuum and clean seals.
• Descale if Needed → In hard water areas, occasional vinegar wipes prevent mineral buildup.

Comparison With Other Brands

• Stronger Suction Than Many FoodSaver Models → The VS-12 often outperforms entry-level FoodSavers in vacuum strength, pulling more air for tighter bags. I switched from a FoodSaver and noticed less residual air.
• More Settings Than Basic Sealers → Compared to Mueller or Seal-a-Meal, the pulse and gentle modes handle delicate foods better without crushing.
• Built-in Cutter and Storage Beats Budget Options → Brands like Geryon lack these, making the Nesco more convenient for frequent use.
• Comparable to Anova Precision → Similar power and features, but Nesco adds double seal and roll storage at a lower price point.
• Less Durable Than Premium Avid Armor → Heavy users prefer Avid for removable trays and longevity, though Nesco holds up well for home volumes.
• Better Value Than Chamber Sealers → For occasional home use, it matches chamber performance on dry/moist without the huge cost or size.
• Quieter Than Some Industrial Models → Not the quietest, but better than loud chamber units.
• Wider Compatibility Than Proprietary Brands → Works with generics, unlike some that push expensive bags.

Read more: Comparison of Leatherman Surge And Wave Plus

Frequently Asked Questions (Faq)

Conclusion: For Nesco Vs-12 Deluxe

After years with my Nesco VS-12 Deluxe, I can say it’s a reliable workhorse that makes food preservation straightforward and effective. If you’re tired of wasted groceries or freezer-burned meat, this machine will change how you shop and cook.

You’ll save money buying in bulk, enjoy fresher meals longer, and feel confident your food stays protected. Whether you’re a meal prepper, hunter, gardener, or just want less waste, it delivers consistent results without complication.