Which is better for sealing raw meat?

The Nesco VS-12. Its moist mode and double seal handle wet meat better. The Chef Preserve is fine for dry or cooked food in small portions.

Is the Nesco worth the extra $59?

Yes if you seal moist food, liquids or large batches often. If you mostly seal leftovers and dry goods, the Chef Preserve does the job for less.

Can the Chef Preserve seal liquids or soups?

No. It is a handheld seal-only unit for dry and cooked foods. Use the Nesco VS-12 for anything wet.

The Nesco is a corded countertop unit with a 1-year warranty and a double seal. The Chef Preserve runs on a rechargeable battery, which will wear down with use, and no warranty is stated.

Which takes less space?

The Chef Preserve at 8 x 1.8 in and 8.3 oz fits in a drawer. The Nesco is 15.75 x 8 x 4.5 in and stays on the counter.

Do they use the same bags?

No. The Chef Preserve uses reusable bags and includes 10. The Nesco uses rolls up to 11.8 in wide, with a built-in cutter and roll storage.

Chef Preserve Vacuum Sealer vs Nesco VS-12 Vacuum Sealer

Buy the Chef Preserve for small jobs: sealing leftovers, dry goods and single portions, cordless and under $70. Buy the Nesco VS-12 if you seal moist food, bulk meat or liquids regularly and want a double seal and an 11.8-inch bag width. As of November 5, 2026, the Chef Preserve is $69.90 at 37Collares and the Nesco VS-12 is $128.99 at shopwithpurpose.com, so the Nesco costs about $59 more.

Today the Chef Preserve Vacuum Sealer costs $59.09 less at its best price.

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