Choose the Nesco VS-12 if you want more control — pulse, Normal/Gentle vacuum, double seal on both settings and canister/marinate functions. Choose the FoodSaver VS2150 if you want simple controls, an included handheld sealer for zipper bags, and a much longer 5-year limited warranty.
FoodSaver and Nesco are two of the most recognisable vacuum sealer brands in US kitchens. We compared a popular model from each — the FoodSaver VS2150 and the Nesco VS-12 Deluxe — using manufacturer documentation and retailer listings. This is a research-based comparison; see how we review.
Side by side
| Product | Sealer type | Vacuum settings | Wet / moist food | Pulse control | Built-in bag storage | Bag cutter | Accessory port | Seal bar | Double seal | Warranty | Price & availability | Our guide |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FoodSaver VS2150 Vacuum Sealing System Best for Beginners |
External | Dry / Moist | Moist mode; pre-freeze liquids | Not stated | Yes | Yes | Yes | 8 in & 11 in rolls | Not stated | 5-year limited | Check on Amazon | Read guide |
| Nesco VS-12 Deluxe Vacuum Sealer Best Overall |
External | Dry / Moist (both double-seal) + Normal / Gentle vacuum | Moist mode; pre-freeze liquids | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Bags up to 11.8 in | Yes | 1-year limited | Check on Amazon | Read guide |
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Controls and food handling
Nesco VS-12: dry and moist settings (both double-seal), Normal and Gentle vacuum pressure, a pulse button, manual seal, and canister and marinate functions. That’s a lot of control for delicate foods, juicy meat and pantry canisters.
FoodSaver VS2150: simpler — vacuum, seal and a dry/moist button. The manual doesn’t list pulse, so soft foods are best pre-frozen.
Winner: Nesco for control.
Bags, rolls and accessories
Both have built-in roll storage and a cutter. The VS2150 fits 8 and 11 in rolls and includes a handheld sealer and hose for FoodSaver zipper bags and containers. The VS-12 holds an 11 in roll, accepts other brands’ embossed bags up to about 11.8 in, and has an accessory port — but its hose and canisters are sold separately.
Winner: FoodSaver for what’s in the box; Nesco for bag flexibility.
Warranty
Retailer data lists a 5-year limited warranty for the VS2150 versus 1 year for the VS-12. Winner: FoodSaver.
Who should buy which?
- Beginners and occasional users who value simplicity and warranty: FoodSaver VS2150.
- Weekly sealers, sous vide cooks and anyone sealing delicate foods: Nesco VS-12.
A 130-watt external sealer with dry and moist settings that both double-seal, pulse control, an accessory port and built-in roll storage with a cutter — a well-rounded choice for weekly sealing. Affiliate link. Prices and availability change — check Amazon for current details. A straightforward FoodSaver with a dry/moist button, roll storage, a cutter bar and a handheld sealer for zipper bags and containers, backed by a 5-year limited warranty. Affiliate link. Prices and availability change — check Amazon for current details.Nesco VS-12 Deluxe Vacuum Sealer
FoodSaver VS2150 Vacuum Sealing System
Other options
Want pulse control on a budget? Consider the Inkbird INK-VS02. Sealing in bulk? See best vacuum sealers for meat. Read the full Nesco review.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use FoodSaver bags in a Nesco sealer?
Yes — FoodSaver embossed bags and rolls work in Nesco external sealers as long as they fit the seal bar (up to about 11.8 inches on the VS-12).
Which is better for sous vide, FoodSaver or Nesco?
The Nesco VS-12’s double seal on both settings, Gentle vacuum and pulse control make it slightly better suited to sous vide prep, especially for marinated foods.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. This does not affect our editorial opinions or recommendations. Learn more.
