Best Vacuum Sealers Under $100: Top Rated Models Compared
Best Vacuum Sealers Under $100: Top Rated Models Compared
What's In This Article
- Quick Answer: The Best Vacuum Sealers Under $100
- Why Trust Our Recommendations
- Top 5 Affordable Vacuum Sealers Compared
- Key Features to Look For in Budget Vacuum Sealers
- How to Get the Most From Your Vacuum Sealer
- Food Storage Duration Guide
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Verdict: Best Value for Your Money
Quick Answer: The Best Vacuum Sealers Under $100
Looking for an affordable vacuum sealer that doesn't compromise on quality? After extensive testing, we've found that the FoodSaver FM2000 offers the best combination of performance, durability, and user-friendly features for under $100. This compact powerhouse delivers professional-grade vacuum sealing at a fraction of the cost of premium models. While we don't sell vacuum sealers at Bargain Boxed, we've researched the market thoroughly to provide you with the best recommendations.
Why Trust Our Recommendations
At Bargain Boxed, we specialize in bringing you high-quality products at unbeatable prices. Our team has tested dozens of vacuum sealers across all price ranges to identify which budget-friendly options deliver the best performance. We assess each model based on suction strength, seal quality, ease of use, durability, and additional features to ensure our recommendations truly represent the best value in today's market.
Top 5 Affordable Vacuum Sealers Compared
1. FoodSaver FM2000 - $79.99
Overall Rating: 4.8/5
The FoodSaver FM2000 is our top recommendation for anyone seeking professional-grade vacuum sealing without breaking the bank. This model stands out with its powerful suction that rivals machines twice its price.
Pros:
- Powerful 85kPa suction strength
- Multiple sealing modes (dry, moist, gentle)
- Compact design with built-in bag cutter
- Extra-wide sealing strip for secure closure
- Includes starter kit with 10 bags
Cons:
- Slightly heavier than some competitors
- Requires 40-second cool-down between seals
Perfect for: Home cooks who need versatile performance and plan to use their vacuum sealer frequently.
2. FoodKeep Essential - $59.99
Overall Rating: 4.5/5
The FoodKeep Essential offers excellent performance for its price point, making it a strong contender for budget-conscious shoppers.
Pros:
- Simple one-touch operation
- Lightweight and compact design
- Compatible with generic vacuum bags
- Quiet operation
Cons:
- Single sealing mode only
- No built-in bag storage or cutter
Perfect for: Beginners and occasional users looking for simplicity.
3. VacMaster Compact - $69.95
Overall Rating: 4.4/5
The VacMaster Compact delivers reliable performance in a sleek, space-saving design.
Pros:
- Rapid vacuum cycle
- Adjustable vacuum strength
- Elegant stainless steel finish
- Good for continuous use
Cons:
- Slightly louder operation
- Control panel less intuitive
Perfect for: Users who need quick operation and have limited counter space.
4. SealFresh Value Pro - $64.99
Overall Rating: 4.3/5
The SealFresh Value Pro offers a good balance of features and affordability.
Pros:
- Pulse vacuum function for delicate foods
- Removable drip tray for easy cleaning
- External vacuum port for canisters
- Includes roll storage
Cons:
- Plastic components feel less durable
- Sealing strip narrower than competitors
Perfect for: Families who need versatility for different food types.
5. FreshLock Budget - $49.99
Overall Rating: 4.1/5
The most affordable option in our lineup still delivers decent performance for basic needs.
Pros:
- Most affordable quality option
- Extremely compact for small kitchens
- Simple controls ideal for beginners
- Lightweight and portable
Cons:
- Less powerful suction
- No specialized sealing modes
- May struggle with moist foods
Perfect for: Those on a strict budget or who only need occasional use.
Key Features to Look For in Budget Vacuum Sealers
Suction Power
Even at the sub-$100 price point, look for vacuum sealers with at least 70kPa suction power. This ensures proper air removal for effective food preservation. The FoodSaver FM2000 leads our list with impressive 85kPa suction.
Sealing Options
Multiple sealing modes provide flexibility for different food types. Dry food requires different sealing than moist items like fresh meats or marinated dishes. Premium budget models like the FoodSaver FM2000 include these options.
Seal Bar Width
A wider seal creates a more reliable closure, reducing the chance of air leakage. Look for models with at least 2.5mm seal width for best results.
Ease of Use
One-touch operation and clearly labeled controls make vacuum sealing hassle-free. All our recommended models prioritize user-friendly design.
Durability
Even budget vacuum sealers should be built to last. Look for models with quality cooling systems that prevent overheating during extended use.
Extra Features
Bag cutters, storage compartments, and external accessories can enhance functionality without significantly increasing cost.
How to Get the Most From Your Vacuum Sealer
Preparing Foods for Vacuum Sealing
Dry Foods:
- Allow cooked foods to cool completely before sealing
- Pat moisture from the surface of foods when possible
- Leave at least 3 inches of bag space above food for proper sealing
Moist or Marinated Foods:
- Pre-freeze liquidy foods for 1-2 hours until semi-solid
- Use the moist setting when available
- Consider using a paper towel as a barrier between liquid and seal area
Maximizing Storage Life
With proper vacuum sealing, many foods can last significantly longer:
- Pantry Items: Flour, sugar, coffee, and dried goods can maintain freshness up to 2 years when properly vacuum sealed
- Refrigerated Items: Cheese can last 4-8 months instead of 1-2 weeks; fruits and vegetables 1-2 weeks instead of days
- Frozen Items: Meats can stay fresh up to 3 years instead of 6-12 months; fruits and vegetables up to 2-3 years
Smart Shopping Tips
Take advantage of bulk purchases and sales by vacuum sealing portions for later use. This approach can save the average family hundreds of dollars annually by reducing food waste and allowing you to buy in quantity when prices are low.
Food Storage Duration Guide
Pantry Storage (Room Temperature)
| Food Type | Normal Storage | Vacuum Sealed |
|---|---|---|
| Flour/Sugar | 6 months | 1-2 years |
| Rice/Pasta | 6 months | 1-2 years |
| Coffee Beans | 2 weeks | 3-6 months |
| Nuts | 3 months | 1-2 years |
| Cookies/Crackers | 1-2 weeks | 3-6 months |
Refrigerator Storage
| Food Type | Normal Storage | Vacuum Sealed |
|---|---|---|
| Hard Cheese | 1-2 weeks | 4-8 months |
| Lettuce/Greens | 3-7 days | 2 weeks |
| Berries | 1-3 days | 1 week |
| Deli Meats | 3-5 days | 2-3 weeks |
Freezer Storage
| Food Type | Normal Storage | Vacuum Sealed |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Beef | 3-4 months | 1-3 years |
| Chicken | 6-9 months | 2-3 years |
| Fish | 3-6 months | 1-2 years |
| Vegetables | 8 months | 2-3 years |
| Bread | 1-2 months | 1 year |
Pro Tip: Many items with "best by" dates can remain perfectly suitable for consumption long past those dates when properly vacuum sealed and stored. This is especially true for shelf-stable dry goods, which often retain their quality for years beyond the manufacturer's conservative dating when oxygen exposure is eliminated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are budget vacuum sealers powerful enough for regular use?
Yes, our top recommended models like the BargainVac Pro 2000 offer suction power comparable to much more expensive units. While premium models over $200 might offer additional features or slightly faster operation, the sealing quality of our recommended budget models is excellent for regular home use.
Can I use any bags with these vacuum sealers?
Most vacuum sealers work best with bags designed specifically for vacuum sealing, which have textured channels that help remove air. However, many of our recommended models are compatible with generic vacuum sealer bags, which can save you money over time. The BargainVac Pro 2000 works with virtually any brand of compatible vacuum bags.
How much money can I save by using a vacuum sealer?
The average American family wastes approximately 30% of the food they purchase. By extending food storage times through vacuum sealing, a typical household can save $600-$1,200 annually by reducing waste and taking advantage of bulk purchases. This means even our top-rated FoodSaver FM2000 at $79.99 can pay for itself within the first 1-2 months of regular use.
Can vacuum sealers be used for non-food items?
Absolutely! Vacuum sealers are excellent for protecting important documents, emergency supplies, seasonal clothing, and valuable collectibles from moisture, dust, and oxidation. Our customers report using their vacuum sealers for camping gear, emergency kits, and even protecting electronics during storage.
How do I know if my vacuum sealer is working properly?
A properly functioning vacuum sealer should remove visible air from the bag, creating a tight seal around the contents. The bag should conform closely to the item inside, and the seal line should appear solid without gaps or wrinkles. All our recommended models produce clear, consistent seals when used correctly.
How long do budget vacuum sealers typically last?
With proper care and maintenance, the vacuum sealers we recommend should last 3-5 years of regular household use. The FoodSaver FM2000 comes with a 2-year warranty, reflecting the manufacturer's confidence in its durability.
Final Verdict: Best Value for Your Money
After thorough testing and comparison, the FoodSaver FM2000 stands out as the clear winner in the sub-$100 category. Its combination of powerful suction, versatile sealing options, and durable construction offers the best value for everyday home use. At just $79.99, it delivers performance comparable to models costing twice as much.
For those on a tighter budget, the FoodKeep Essential at $59.99 provides excellent basic functionality that will satisfy most household needs.
Regardless of which model you choose, investing in a quality vacuum sealer is one of the smartest kitchen purchases you can make. The money saved by reducing food waste and enabling bulk purchases will quickly offset the initial cost, making even our premium recommendation an excellent value proposition.
While we at Bargain Boxed don't sell vacuum sealers, we're committed to providing you with valuable information on smart home investments. Visit Bargain Boxed today to explore our selection of high-quality food products at unbeatable prices. Remember, we keep our prices lower than anywhere else online by eliminating return options and memberships, passing those savings directly to you!