Keeping food fresh for weeks—or even years—saves money and cuts down on waste, but choosing the right vacuum sealer makes all the difference. Over the past month I’ve rotated two popular machines through my kitchen: the FoodSaver FM2100 and the Nesco VS-12 Deluxe.
After sealing leftovers, bulk meat, and even a few sous-vide steaks, I’ve formed a clear picture of how each one performs in real life. Here’s my personal experience with both models and which one I believe is the smarter buy.
Key Difference at a Glance: Foodsaver FM2100 vs Nesco VS-12 Vacuum Sealer
The biggest distinction comes down to control vs. convenience. The FoodSaver FM2100 leans toward straightforward, automatic sealing with a well-known brand reputation and strong warranty. The Nesco VS-12, on the other hand, offers more manual control and variable settings, ideal if you often seal moist foods or want to fine-tune pressure.
- Dollar Saver: Preserve food up to 3 years in the freezer, maintaining its freshness and taste
- OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE: 130 watt, 25. 1 InHG double vacuum pump for optimal performance. Ensures maximum air extraction...
Quick Comparison Table: Foodsaver FM2100 vs Nesco VS-12 Vacuum Sealer
| Feature | FoodSaver FM2100 | Nesco VS-12 Deluxe |
| Dimensions | 16.3″ L x 9.2″ W x 4″ H | 15.75″ L x 8″ W x 4.5″ H |
| Weight | 6.6 lbs | 6 lbs |
| Power | Dual heat sealing strips | 130-watt double vacuum pump |
| Modes | Standard automatic sealing | Dry, Moist, Double; Normal or Gentle pressure |
| Built-in Cutter | Yes | Yes |
| Accessories | Roll, bags, accessory hose | Two bag rolls included |
| Warranty | 5-year limited | 1-year limited |
| Best For | Everyday bulk storage, sous vide | Moist foods, delicate items needing gentle vacuum |
| Check Latest Offers | Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon |
Design and Build Quality
I immediately noticed that FoodSaver FM2100 feels a bit more robust in the hand. Its black plastic body is slightly larger and heavier than the Nesco, giving it a sturdy presence on the counter. The built-in roll storage and cutter are well thought out, letting me create custom bags without hunting for scissors.
The Nesco VS-12, finished in silver, is more compact and lighter, which helped when I moved it in and out of the pantry. The transparent lid makes it easy to check bag placement before sealing. Both use plenty of plastic, but the Nesco’s locking handle has a smoother action—one-handed operation was effortless.
- Dollar Saver: Preserve food up to 3 years in the freezer, maintaining its freshness and taste
Ease of Use
For pure simplicity, the FM2100 wins. I could feed in a bag, close the lid, and the automatic detection took over. The dual heat strip sealed quickly and evenly every time. If you’re new to vacuum sealing, this “set it and forget it” style is welcoming.
The VS-12 requires a tiny learning curve because of its multiple settings—dry, moist, and double—plus the ability to toggle between normal and gentle pressure. After a few uses, though, I appreciated the flexibility. When sealing soft rolls or delicate berries, the gentle setting kept them from getting crushed, something the FoodSaver can’t adjust.
- OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE: 130 watt, 25. 1 InHG double vacuum pump for optimal performance. Ensures maximum air extraction...
Performance and Functions
FoodSaver FM2100
- Consistent suction with an airtight finish.
- Strong enough for long-term freezer storage—FoodSaver claims up to three years, and based on past experience with other FoodSaver models, that’s believable.
- Ideal for sous-vide: I sealed marinated chicken, dropped it in a 140°F bath, and the bag held perfectly.
Nesco VS-12
- The 130-watt double pump is a beast. It pulled air out of large bags of stew beef faster than the FM2100.
- Moist-food mode is excellent for sealing soups or marinades. I used the optional double-seal for a batch of chili and no liquid escaped.
- The gentle setting preserved delicate pastries without squashing them.
Both cutters produced clean edges and both units kept my freezer free of ice crystals on stored meat after several weeks.
- Dollar Saver: Preserve food up to 3 years in the freezer, maintaining its freshness and taste
- OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE: 130 watt, 25. 1 InHG double vacuum pump for optimal performance. Ensures maximum air extraction...
Cleaning and Maintenance
Neither machine is a hassle to clean. The FoodSaver has a removable drip tray that pops out for a quick rinse. The Nesco’s sealing strip area is easy to wipe, and the viewing lid lifts for better access. I give a slight edge to the FoodSaver only because the tray felt sturdier and locked back in more securely.
Warranty and Accessories
FoodSaver clearly wins on warranty with five years of coverage compared to Nesco’s one. Out of the box, the FM2100 also ships with an accessory hose for vacuum-sealing canisters and containers, plus a starter roll and bags. Nesco includes two bag rolls but no hose.
FoodSaver FM2100 Vacuum Sealer Machine
- Dollar Saver: Preserve food up to 3 years in the freezer, maintaining its freshness and taste
Pros:
- Five-year warranty provides peace of mind
- Automatic bag detection is truly hands-off
- Dual heat strips give reliable, strong seals
- Comes with accessory hose for containers
- Well-designed built-in cutter and roll storage
Cons:
- Heavier and slightly bulkier on the counter
- Lacks variable pressure for fragile foods
- No specific “moist” mode, so liquids need extra care
Nesco VS-12 Deluxe Vacuum Sealing Machine
- OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE: 130 watt, 25. 1 InHG double vacuum pump for optimal performance. Ensures maximum air extraction...
Pros:
- Multiple modes (dry, moist, double) for versatile use
- Gentle pressure setting protects delicate items
- Double vacuum pump delivers fast, powerful suction
- Transparent lid helps align bags
- Compact and lighter for easy storage
Cons:
- Only one-year warranty
- No accessory port for canisters
- Slight learning curve compared to the FoodSaver
My Verdict and Recommendation:
After weeks of sealing everything from garden vegetables to leftover lasagna, here’s how I’d break it down:
- Choose the FoodSaver FM2100 if you value reliability, longer warranty protection, and effortless operation. It’s excellent for standard bulk storage, sous-vide enthusiasts, and anyone who wants a machine that “just works” every time.
- Go with the Nesco VS-12 if you often seal moist foods or want greater control. The ability to switch between pressure levels and sealing modes is a real advantage for delicate or liquid-rich foods. If you’re a frequent meal-prep cook who deals with stews, marinades, or baked goods, the VS-12’s flexibility shines.
For my own kitchen, I personally lean toward the Nesco VS-12 because I frequently vacuum-seal moist dishes and appreciate the gentle setting for fragile pastries. Still, if I were stocking a freezer primarily with meat and long-term staples, I’d probably favor the FM2100’s five-year warranty and effortless automation.
Either way, both machines perform exceptionally well, cut down on food waste, and save serious money over time. Your choice depends on whether you prefer plug-and-play convenience or fine-tuned control—and now you know exactly what to expect from each.
