Which is better for making beef jerky?

The 5-Tray Compact reaches 176°F, which is above the 165°F top of the Premium, and jerky recipes often call for 160–170°F. The Premium wins on capacity if you dry large batches.

Is the 6-Tray Premium worth the extra money?

At $99.99 versus $50.00 at eBay as of November 4, 2026, you pay about $50 more for a sixth tray, a fruit roll sheet, mesh screens and a recipe book. It is worth it if you dry often in volume.

Which takes up less counter space?

The 5-Tray Compact, at 13.9 x 11.3 x 8.9 in and 10.7 lb. The Premium measures 17.8 x 13.4 x 12.4 in.

Do both have a 48-hour timer?

Yes. Both run up to 48 hours with automatic shutoff and overheat protection. The Premium sets time in 30-minute increments.

Which is easier to clean?

Both have dishwasher-safe stainless trays. The Premium's fan screen is not removable, which reviewers say makes cleaning behind it difficult.

Both use stainless steel trays and housing, and neither maker publishes a motor life figure. The Premium's larger fan and body may suit heavier use, but there is no published durability data to separate them.

Cosori Premium Food Dehydrator (6-Tray) vs Cosori 5-Tray Compact

Buy the 6-Tray Premium if you dry in volume, want stainless trays and a wider 95–165°F range with 48-hour timing. Buy the 5-Tray Compact if counter space and price matter most. As of November 4, 2026, the Premium's best new price is $99.99 at eBay, and the Compact's is $50.00 at eBay.

Today the Cosori 5-Tray Compact costs $49.99 less at its best price.

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