Kristin Byrne, Author at Appliances Reviewed

Charbroil® The Big Easy TRU-Infrared Cooking Technology Propane Gas Stainless Steel Oil-Less Turkey Fryer - 17102065

Enterprises Turkey Deep Fryer Oversized 44 Quart Stainless Steel Big Bird Kit by Bayou Classic for Big 25 lbs Huge Turkeys Complete KIT TOP of The LINE

Bayou Classic 4225 42-qt Aluminum Grand Gobbler Turkey Features Vented Lid Heavy-Duty Riveted Handles Perforated Poultry Rack 12-in Stainless Fry Thermometer 2-oz Seasoning Injector

Masterbuilt MB23010618 Fryer, XL Stainless Steel

Features: Oil-less fryer, electric, capacity of up to 16 pounds, lifter, meat thermometer, 1-year warranty.

Features: 44-qt. stainless steel, meat thermometer, seasoning injector, commercial-grade, 1-year warranty.

Features: 30-qt. aluminum pot, thermometer, seasoning injector, 1-year warranty.

Features: Capacity of up to 20 lb. turkey, digital control panel with timer, commercial-grade, 3-months warranty.

Best Overall

Features: Oil-less fryer, electric, capacity of up to 16 pounds, lifter, meat thermometer, 1-year warranty.

Best Quality

Features: 44-qt. stainless steel, meat thermometer, seasoning injector, commercial-grade, 1-year warranty.

Best on a Budget

Features: 30-qt. aluminum pot, thermometer, seasoning injector, 1-year warranty.

Best For Commercial Use

Features: Capacity of up to 20 lb. turkey, digital control panel with timer, commercial-grade, 3-months warranty.

Best Overall: Char-Broil Big Easy Oil-less Turkey Fryer

Overall, we believe the Char-Broil Big Easy is the best turkey fryer for most people. It’s a propane-powered device meant to be used for outdoor cooking activities. The unit itself is large, fast, and cooks without oil, which is a big plus in the health department.

Pros:

One of the best higher-end features of this model is the TRU-Infrared technology that ensures a tender, yet crispy turkey each time. The fryer features 16,000 BTU propane burners, so you can expect evenly cooked meat every time.

The capacity of the unit goes up to 16 lbs of meat. You can cook a whole 16 lbs turkey, or combine smaller meats. It’s especially beneficial if versatility is important for you. Aside from turkey, you can cook chicken, pork tenderloin, beef roast, and most large cuts of meat, plus boneless and bone-in ribs.

We especially loved that the unit doesn’t need oil to fry, which automatically means healthier meals without the added calories.

Since the Char-Broil Big Easy is electric and oil-free, there’s no need to fear burns. Plus, it comes with all the essential gadgets needed for safe cooking, like a cooking thermometer, a cooking basket with a lifter, secure lid, and a quick start cooking guide, which also makes the unit beginner-friendly.

Cons:

Since it uses propane, the Char-Broil Big Easy can only be used outdoors. This means that weather and other external factors can affect your ability to cook turkey exactly when you need it.

Additionally, some customers have noted that the turkey isn’t as crispy as with some traditional oil-based devices.

The Verdict:

The Char-Broil Big Easy is a great choice for most people as it’s a propane-powered fryer that’s also user-friendly and safe. The unit is large and can satisfy the needs of every family. It’s also fast and healthy as it fries without oil. Whether you’re a turkey-master or an amateur who wants to learn how to easily prepare the perfect turkey dinner, the Char-Broil Big Easy won’t disappoint you.

Best Quality: Bayou Classic 44-Quart 'Big Bird' Kit

When you have to feed a large family with high standards, the Bayou Classic “Big Bird” turkey fryer is the way to go. This mode is one of the largest in the industry, which makes it suitable for commercial use. Therefore, if you’re a professional cook, have a large family, or you own a restaurant, buying the Bayou Classic “Big Bird” fryer would be a smart choice.

Pros:

Aside from its quality, the biggest advantage of this model is its capacity. The unit has a 44-qt. body and can easily fry up to 25 lbs of turkey. It’s definitely one of the largest devices available on the market today.

The Bayou Classic “Big Bird” model is made of high-quality aluminum and stainless steel which make the device very durable and powerful. Best of all, it distributes the temperature evenly and without a mistake – something that’s very important for large-scale devices.

The unit is very well-built, so it’s effortless to maintain and clean. The design allows you to easily disassemble it in order to clean it thoroughly. It also features two very well-designed handles and a stainless steel vented lid, so it’s easy to transport it and use it.

Just like our best overall recommendation, the unit comes with a lifter, a meat thermometer, and an insulated glove.

Cons:

The unit itself might be hard to figure out, as you need to put it together once it arrives. This might not be the best option for complete beginners as you can easily make a mistake.

The Verdict:

The Bayou Classic “Big Bird” is an amazing high-end turkey fryer that delivers outstanding performance when it comes to cooking large quantities of meat. The unit is graded for commercial-use and it would be a brilliant choice for large families.

Bayou Classic 44-Quart 'Big Bird' Kit

Best on a Budget: Bayou Classic 3025 30Qt Turkey Fryer

When you’re on a budget, the Bayou Classic 3025 has your back. It’s lightweight, yet constructed with high-quality and safety standards in mind. The unit offers some amazing features for a very low price, which is why it deserves the title as the best turkey fryer on a budget.

Pros:

The unit is incredibly lightweight and fast. The Bayou Classic 3025 can fry a whole turkey in just 45 minutes, which is quite impressive. After that, it’s very easy to transport it and store it.

Fast doesn’t mean less efficient. What we love about the Bayou Classic 3025 is that it’s made from high-quality aluminum that ensures proper circulation around all of the tank, without leaving your turkey half-burned, half-alive – even when the turkey weighs up to 20 lbs.

We also loved how versatile the unit is. Not only can you quickly fry a whole turkey, but you can also use it for cooking soup, shrimp, crabs, corn, peanuts, Low Country Boil, or gumbo.

Finally, the unit comes with all the necessary accessories for safe and comfortable cooking. It features a patented poultry rack, lift hook, thermometer, and a seasoning injector.

Cons:

Unlike the models we recommended so far, the Bayou Classic 3025 isn’t suitable for smaller chunks of meat. If you also want to use the fryer for chicken, it’s better to go for another model.

The Verdict:

If you were looking for the value for money fryer, we’re happy to tell you that you’ve found it. The most surprising aspect of the Bayou Classic 3025 turkey fryer is its price as all the other features place the device among the best of the best fryers on the market.

Best for Commercial Use: Masterbuilt Butterball 1650W XL Turkey Fryer

The Masterbuilt Butterball is a very powerful and efficient fryer for both indoor and outdoor use. The unit satisfies all standards for commercial use and comes with a large capacity that makes it a perfect choice for restaurant owners or professional cooks. The Masterbuilt Butterball is very easy to use and features advanced functionalities, which make the cooking process a piece of cake.

Pros:

The Masterbuilt Butterball Xl is certified for commercial and indoor use. The inner pot is coated with porcelain to keep the oil locked inside. This feature makes it a great choice for restaurants and small businesses, as well as families that enjoy cooking turkey quite often.

The unit uses at least 33% less oil than traditional models, which makes it a healthier option when compared with other oil-based fryers. Plus, it has an oil drain valve which makes cleaning the device a breeze.

When it comes to capacity, the Masterbuilt Butterball can fry up to 20 lbs of turkey.

The unit comes equipped with a digital control panel with a timer, which makes the device a lot easier to operate with, and the whole frying process a lot safer.

Like some of our other recommendations, the Masterbuilt Butterball XL is versatile and suitable for boiling and steaming, aside from frying foods.

Although turkey fryers are generally hard to clean, the Masterbuilt Butterball XL comes with dishwasher safe parts. You can disassemble and toss the pot, basket, lid, and drain valve right in the dishwasher without thinking too much about it.

Cons:

One concern or frustration is that the unit needs time before it reaches the desired temperature. This can prolong the cooking process, or spend more electricity.

Unfortunately, the unit has a very small cord. It’s designed that way for safety reasons, but it can be a problem finding a place on the countertop with a power outlet right beside it.

The Verdict:

Large, versatile, and easy to use and clean, the Masterbuilt Butterball Xl is a high-quality turkey fryer designed to satisfy every need. This unit is a safe bet for most people, but especially those owning a business. When frying turkey is a daily chore and the taste needs to be impeccable, the Masterbuilt Butterball is here to save the day.

Conclusion:

The Char-Broil Big Easy is our overall best pick as we believe it’s one of the best turkey fryers available on the market today. The unit represents a balance between a great price, good quality, and essential features. It will give you tender and juicy meat very fast and very conveniently – you only need to push two buttons. The unit can please a lot of families gathering for a turkey dinner.

When looking for a high-quality turkey fryer that can handle a very, very big bird, you get to the Bayou Classic “Big Bird” which is one of the best ones on the market. It’s a large-scale device, great for both personal and commercial use. The unit itself is very professionally built, having in mind the maintenance and cleaning process as well, which is especially beneficial if you work in a restaurant and have to cook a turkey on a daily basis.

The best value-for-money pick is definitely the Bayou Classic 3025, which stands out from the crowd with the high-end functionalities it offers for such a low price. The unit is large, versatile, and very well-built. You’ll also get all the essential accessories to safely make a quick and delicious turkey dinner.

Finally, our pick for a high-quality commercial-grade turkey fryer is the Masterbuilt Butterball Xl model. The unit has everything a business owner can ask for – large capacity, advanced functionalities for easy usage, versatility, high safety standards, and dishwasher-safe parts for easy cleaning.

Everything You Need To Know About Turkey Fryers

Turkey fryers offer a combination of convenience and flavor. Because it’s fried, the turkey skin comes out crunchy and very tasty. Inside, the meat is tender and juicy. It’s the turkey-lovers’ dream.

A Little History

Turkey fryers got a rough and rocky start. When they began to get popular, there were some serious accidents that occurred, some of which were the manufacturers’ fault, while others took place because of the carelessness of those preparing the turkey. Furthermore, frying, in general, has had a bad rep since it was discovered that food fried in grease is very unhealthy.

Health Concerns

Frying food has been a practice for hundreds of years. Our ancestors dominantly used frying as a method to make raw food safer – free from bacteria, tastier, and long-lasting. So, why have turkey fryers gotten the bad rep, and what have we learned so far?

It seems that the type of oil used to cook the food is a big factor when it comes to health. When a turkey, or any food, is fried in healthier oils that haven’t been reused and is fried at a temperature that doesn’t cause the turkey to oversaturate, the verdict is a much better one.

Safety Concerns

Ever since turkey fryers were invented, safety was one of the main concerns. There are a lot of dangers when deep-frying turkeys – turkey fryer fires are responsible for the destruction of 900 homes, and more than $15-million in property damage yearly, according to the National Fire Protection Association.

The good news is that units are much more safety-oriented now and consumers are more aware of the dangers associated with the device, which has positively affected the demand of turkey fryers in recent years. However, we caution you to always be careful and make sure you’re well informed before working with a turkey fryer.

Plus, when attempting to use any turkey fryer, it is of utmost importance to pay strict attention to safety measures. No matter what safety features the unit comes equipped with; it is imperative to take great caution in all phases of cooking. You will also be wise to have a back-up plan should something go wrong.

Types of Turkey Fryers

There are four types of turkey fryers. There are the ever-popular electric ones that use grease to heat. Then there are those that run on propane and also use grease to heat. And, last but not least, there are both propane and electric models that use air rather than grease to cook.

The type that will best fit you generally depends on what you are looking for in a turkey fryer.

If you are trying to eliminate oil from your diet, one of the air-operated units might be the smart choice.

Many, however, like the propane grease heated ones, so they can enjoy the smoky aroma in the air. Plus, there is no need for an electrical outlet.

Still, others swear by the convenience and quality of electrical grease-heated devices.

What Are the Advantages of a Turkey Fryer?

There are many advantages to owning a turkey fryer, but the first and most obvious one is the cooking time. For example, baking a turkey takes more than four hours, depending on the turkey’s weight. On the other hand, deep-frying the same turkey in a turkey fryer will take more or less an hour, depending on the model. Therefore, when time is a pressing matter, having a turkey fryer is essential.

The second advantage that comes with owning a turkey fryer is the incredible taste. It’s no secret that deep frying only amplifies the turkey’s juicy and tender meat with crispy skin. Thanksgiving dinners are iconic and the perfectly cooked turkey is at the center of this jolly tradition, which is what you’ll get when you buy the best turkey fryer.

Finally, if you choose a no-oil air-fryer, you’ll get a healthier turkey. Whether you bake or fry the turkey, you still need to use oil, which adds a massive amount of calories. On the other hand, many turkey fryers today are electric and can air-cook the turkey for the same time as propane fryers. If an air-fryer matches your needs, you’ll definitely get a healthier turkey for dinner.

How To Find the Best Turkey Fryer?

The best turkey fryer will fry up a great turkey each and every time. However, to do that, it needs to have some basic as well as special features that not every model out there has. This is why it’s important to compare devices and be certain which of the many models suits your needs. To that end, below are some of the things you’ll be wise to consider.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Turkey Fryer

The first thing you need to decide is whether you want an outdoor or indoor turkey fryer. This will affect the heating source, the safety standards, and the price. Typically, indoor turkey fryers are electric and you only need to plug them in to fry your turkey. They’re much more independent (you can leave them while frying) and can still be used outside.

On the other hand, outdoor turkey fryers work on propane, which is the main difference from the indoor turkey fryers. Outdoor turkey fryers can’t be used indoors, but they do have their advantages. Read more about the advantages and disadvantages of both types before you make a decision.

Capacity

The second consideration refers to the fryer’s capacity. Obviously, turkeys are big and you’ll need a large tank to fry the big bird comfortably. While indoor turkey fryers are designed to handle around 14 lbs, outdoor fryers can go up to 20 lbs. Consider how big the turkeys you buy or hunt are to know what tank capacity will be the right choice for your needs.

Lifters

When buying a turkey fryer, it’s important to think about the lifters as one of the most essential accessories. As the name suggests, the lifter is an attachment that allows you to pick up or lift the turkey from the fryer. Turkey fryers are deep and getting your bird out of the fryer without damaging it, burning yourself, or ruining the outermost crispy shell can be tricky.

Safety Features

Indoor turkey fryers are safer than the outdoor ones, nonetheless, you need to set up high standards when it comes to the safety features of this device. Turkey fryers are big and can easily cause damage if you don’t handle them right. Look for a thermostat, an automatic shutoff feature, or strong lid, among other things.

Before You Go

Cooking a delicious and mouthwatering turkey dinner can be easier than ever thanks to specialized turkey fryers. If you’re a turkey meat lover, then there’s nothing more to think about – buying the right turkey fryer will make your life a lot easier.

Hopefully, our reviews helped you decide on a device that will best fit your specific needs and preferences. Our practical buying advice is also here to guide you while shopping for a turkey fryer. You can use the links we provided to find out more in-depth information about each recommended product, check out current prices, and read customer reviews.

Don’t forget that we have many more product reviews and product guides and even tasty recipes on our blog, so don’t hesitate to check it out.

Want to see our favorite turkey fryers one more time before you go? Here they are!

Best Overall

Best Quality

Best on a Budget

Best For Commercial Use

Features: Oil-less fryer, electric, capacity of up to 16 pounds, lifter, meat thermometer, 1-year warranty.

Features: 44-qt. stainless steel, meat thermometer, seasoning injector, commercial-grade, 1-year warranty.

Features: 30-qt. aluminum pot, thermometer, seasoning injector, 1-year warranty.

Features: Capacity of up to 20 lb. turkey, digital control panel with timer, commercial-grade, 3-months warranty.

Best Overall

Features: Oil-less fryer, electric, capacity of up to 16 pounds, lifter, meat thermometer, 1-year warranty.

Best Quality

Features: 44-qt. stainless steel, meat thermometer, seasoning injector, commercial-grade, 1-year warranty.

Best on a Budget

Features: 30-qt. aluminum pot, thermometer, seasoning injector, 1-year warranty.

Best For Commercial Use

Features: Capacity of up to 20 lb. turkey, digital control panel with timer, commercial-grade, 3-months warranty.

The Best Sausage Stuffer Reviews

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If you are an avid hunter and want to make sausage out of your kill or if you simply prefer the taste of homemade sausage over store-bought, buying a sausage stuffer is the right move. Sausage stuffers make the difference between what could be a mundane task and a quick and easy process. And having the best sausage stuffer can make all the difference in the world.

For some people, stuffing sausages may look like an easy and straightforward job, which is true, but only if you have the right tool. For all the others that have spent countless hours trying to fill the casing only to get mediocre results and sausages that easily fall apart, we’re here to help you out.

As the market is littered with different product options, trying to find the best option for your unique needs and preferences may be a bit confusing. Luckily, we did the research so you don’t have to. This way, you’ll easily find the perfect match for making home-made sausages amongst our recommendations.

At the end of the article, we also shared some essential buying advice to help you choose the best option for your kitchen, so don’t forget to check it out. You’ll learn the main factors that you should keep in mind when shopping for your new sausage stuffer, but first, let’s start with the best sausage stuffer reviews.

The Best Sausage Stuffer

Best Overall

Best Quality

Best on a Budget

Most Versatile

STX Turboforce Classic 3000 Meat Grinder And Sausage Stuffer

LEM Products Mighty Bite Vertical Stainless Steel 5 Pound Capacity Sausage Stuffer with Plastic Stuffing Tubes,Silver

Hakka 7Lb/3L Sausage Stuffers and Vertical Sausage Makers

Sausage Stuffer Horizontal Kitchen Machine - Meat Stuffing Maker Kit With 4 Size Professional Filling Nozzles Attachment, Commercial And Household Use (5 LBS)

STX International Turboforce 3000 Heavy Duty 5-In-1 Powerful Size #12 • 3 Lb High Capacity Meat Tray • Sausage Stuffer (3 Sizes) • Kubbe Maker • Electric Burger/Slider Maker • Meat Claws

Features: Manual, vertical design, 5 lbs capacity, 3 different diameter stuffing tubes (13mm, 19mm, and 25mm), 2-year warranty.

Features: Manual, vertical design, 7 lbs/3l capacity, 2 speeds, 4 different diameter stuffing tubes (16mm, 22mm, 32mm, 38mm).

Features: Manual, horizontal design, 5 lbs capacity, 4 different stuffing tubes (14mm, 18mm, 21mm, and 25mm).

Features: Electrical, 1200 watts, 4 grinding plates, 3 stainless steel blades, 3 meat claws, 3 sausage tubes, 3-year warranty.

Best Overall

Features: Manual, vertical design, 5 lbs capacity, 3 different diameter stuffing tubes (13mm, 19mm, and 25mm), 2-year warranty.

Best Quality

Features: Manual, vertical design, 7 lbs/3l capacity, 2 speeds, 4 different diameter stuffing tubes (16mm, 22mm, 32mm, 38mm).

Best on a Budget

Features: Manual, horizontal design, 5 lbs capacity, 4 different stuffing tubes (14mm, 18mm, 21mm, and 25mm).

STX Turboforce Classic 3000 Meat Grinder And Sausage Stuffer

Most Versatile

Features: Electrical, 1200 watts, 4 grinding plates, 3 stainless steel blades, 3 meat claws, 3 sausage tubes, 3-year warranty.

Best Overall: LEM Products 5-Pound Sausage Stuffer

The sausage stuffer from LEM Product is our best overall pick as it’s a very durable and efficient device, with a decent capacity and versatile stuffing tubes. The 5-pound sausage stuffer is a well-rounded product with a reasonable price and a 2-year warranty, which is why we believe it will be a smart choice for most people.

Pros:

Thanks to the stainless steel construction, quality is guaranteed with the LEM Products sausage stuffer. The unit has highly precise carbon steel gears that are specifically designed to avoid slippage and wear. Plus, the material won’t rust or collect germs over time, which means you can use it for a very long time without wearing it out.

The 2-year warranty is another guarantee that you’ll get good use out of this sausage stuffer.

When it comes to the performance, the LEM Products sausage stuffer can hold up to 5 lbs, which means you can make most recipes in one load.

Also, because of the different diameter tube stuffers, you can stuff sausages from 13mm up to 25mm of thickness. This feature makes the unit more versatile and able to fit the needs of most people regardless of their preferences when it comes to sausage thickness.

The unit also features an air valve release, which pushes air out the top instead of into the casing, and you’re left with a tightly packed sausage without any air bubbles.

Finally, the unit is incredibly easy to operate and clean. If cleaning and maintaining hygiene at the highest level were a concern, rest assured – the LEM Products sausage stuffer can be disassembled completely. The cylinder, o-ring on the plunger, and other parts can be taken apart so you can clean them separately.

Cons:

Some customers have complained that the clamps meant to stabilize the unit on your countertop are fragile and not so sturdy. Plus, they’re small and might not fit on every kitchen countertop.

Although the main parts of the unit are made of high-quality stainless steel, the piston and nozzles are plastic, which might not be as durable as the rest of the unit.

The Verdict:

The LEM Products 5-pound sausage stuffer is a great product that has the potential to make a lot of sausage lovers very happy. The device is heavy, sturdy, and built with high-quality materials. It offers great performance and versatility as it comes with different diameter stuffing tubes. Best of all, the device is user-friendly and very easy to clean. Whether you’re just starting your journey of making sausages at home or you have some experience, the LEM Products model is a great choice.

Sale

Best Quality: Hakka 7 Lbs/3 L Sausage Stuffer

For the professionals, nitpickers, or very large families, we recommend the Hakka sausage stuffer as the best quality unit. Hakka is a real game-changer in the industry made 100% of high-quality stainless steel materials. Plus, it’s one of the most convenient and versatile units available on the market today.

Pros:

The Hakka sausage stuffer is an incredibly sturdy and durable product. The whole unit is made of food-grade, high-quality stainless steel – even the little attachable parts like the nozzles.

The fact that this sausage stuffer is not an electric device shouldn’t concern you. The Hakka model features resin bevel gears which make the unit very easy to operate with – muscle strength is minimum as working the handle is almost effortless. Plus, just like most high-end sausage stuffers, the Hakka model comes with an air valve release, so you can be sure the whole stuffing process will move flawlessly.

The Hakka sausage stuffer is even more versatile than our best overall pick. The device has 2-speed options, used for slow feeding (first speed), and quickly reversing the plunger (second option). On top of that, it has four different diameter tube stuffers (nozzles) – 16 mm, 22 mm, 32 mm, and 38 mm.

Finally, it offers a great capacity suited for large families and people who work with large quantities of meat at once. The unit can hold up to 7lbs of meat.

Cons:

One drawback of this sausage stuffer is that the crank doesn’t have a reverse lock, so it can easily spin backward if you’re not careful.

Additionally, the Hakka sausage stuffer doesn’t offer a warranty, which means you’ll have to buy an insurance package from the manufacturer that’ll serve you as a warranty in case something goes wrong.

The Verdict:

For all of those who want the best of the best, the Hakka 7-pound sausage stuffer is one of the few devices that checks all requirements for an amazing experience. It’s well-built, durable, comfortable when operating with, and quite versatile. It can easily handle heavy-duty work and deliver a large number of sausages in no time.

Sale

Hakka 7 Lbs/3 L Sausage Stuffer

Best on a Budget: Master Feng 2-Pound Sausage Stuffer

The Master Feng 2-pound sausage stuffer is the best value choice as the unit offers decent quality, great versatility, and amazing convenience. It’s compact and small, which makes it perfect for most kitchens and occasional sausage stuffers who want something simple they can easily operate with and store without blocking the kitchen space.

Pros:

The Master Feng 2-pound sausage stuffer has a horizontal design. The biggest difference from the vertical designs is that the handle is smaller and is positioned lower. This can be practical for shorter people and those who have trouble when it comes to their arm’s range of motion.

Aside from its horizontal design, the unit also features an adpot suction cup base, so you can be sure that Master Feng stays securely on your kitchen table, even if you work with tougher meat.

Just like our highest quality pick, Master Feng comes with four different food-grade plastic stuffing nozzles, so you can select the length and diameter of your sausages. The nozzles allow you to make 14mm, 18mm, 21mm, and 25mm fresh sausages.

Also, we should note that Master Feng has a variety of models available for purchase, which means for a few more bucks you can buy the 5-lbs model or one with even higher capacity (pricer).

Cons:

Unless you’re willing to pay a little more for a larger model, the Master Feng 2-pound sausage stuffer is very small and unsuited for large families.

Another drawback is that once you assemble the device, it stays put. While higher-end models can be easily disassembled for cleaning purposes, Master Feng might give you a hard time.

The Verdict:

Costing just a fraction of most high-end sausage stuffers, the Master Feng 2-pound model surprises with its performance and versatility. The horizontal design is an advantage for shorter people. It’s a great unit for people with small kitchens, people who prefer something small and simple, and basically anyone who wants a decent device without breaking the bank.

Most Versatile: STX Turboforce Classic 3000 Meat Grinder And Sausage Stuffer

As the only electrical sausage stuffer on our list, the STX Turboforce Classic 3000 outpowers the other recommendations and offers convenience on another level. The unit is well-built, efficient, versatile, and best of all – large enough to feed a whole family from one batch. It’s the perfect choice for those who have trouble operating manual sausage stuffers and who use multi-use devices.

Pros:

Basics first, the STX Turboforce Classic 3000 is made of high-quality materials, which means it’s very sturdy and durable. The unit is manufactured with food-grade cast aluminum and tempered/hardened steel.

Buying this model means laying back and letting it do the work. Regardless of how powerful gears manual models have, you’ll still have to put in some muscle work. When using the STX Turboforce Classic 3000, on the other hand, you only need to push a button and let the machine do all the work.

The unit has a 1200-watt running capacity, which means it can handle heavy-duty work without problems. No matter what kind of meat you’re using, this device will stuff it tightly without any air bubbles.

Best of all, the STX Turboforce Classic 3000 features three-speed options, so you can have full control over the whole process. Making fresh sausages will be quicker than ever.

Buying this model, you’ll also get three (304-grade stainless steel) cutting blades, three grinding plates, three sausage stuffing tubes (1/2″, 5/8″ & 3/4″), one kubbe/kibbeh making attachment, one meat pusher, two meat shredder claws, and a 3-in-1 burger-slider maker.

Cons:

The small motor heats the device easily, which means that for heavy-duty work, you might need to make a few pauses to prevent overheating the unit.

Also, the STX Turboforce Classic 3000 can’t grind animal tendons, so make sure you clean the meat thoroughly before placing it into the grinder.

The Verdict:

When convenience and versatility are important, the electric meat grinder and sausage stuffer STX Turboforce Classic 3000 delivers an amazing performance. The unit is especially beneficial for people who have arm problems and can’t operate a manual sausage stuffer. Plus, having one device for a variety of purposes is always a bonus.

STX Turboforce Classic 3000 Meat Grinder And Sausage Stuffer

Conclusion:

After going through the market and comparing current offers in detail, we picked four units as the best sausage stuffers in four different categories.

The best sausage stuffer overall is the LEM Products 5-pound model. The device is well-rounded and represents a perfect balance between quality, performance, convenience, and fair price. We believe this unit can satisfy most people’s needs, as it is a great sausage stuffer for beginners, experienced cooks, as well as hyperenthusiastic sausage gurus.

The highest quality pick is also the most popular and highest praised – the Hakka 7-pound sausage stuffer. It’s made of 100% stainless steel, including the nozzles – unlike the LEM Products model which features plastic nozzles. The Hakka sausage stuffer is also larger and more versatile, with four different diameter nozzles and 2-speed options. This unit is a great choice for professionals and large families.

When money is tight but the love for healthy and delicious sausages is strong, you can choose the horizontal sausage stuffer from Master Feng. It’s a horizontally designed sausage stuffer, great for shorter people and people with arms problems. The unit is also a smart choice for those who cook for one or two and prefer something simple above anything else. Buying this device, you’ll get a lot of versatility and stability.

Although all of our recommendations are versatile in terms of nozzle diameters, the STX Turboforce Classic 3000 takes things to the next level, as it’s a multi-use device that you can also use to grind meat. The STX Turboforce Classic 3000 is a powerful, eclectic unit that comes with an array of handy features for grinding and stuffing meat perfectly every time. If you’re someone who also prefers to grind meat at home, you might want to buy a model like the STX Turboforce and get two functionalities in one device.

Everything You Need To Know About Sausage Stuffers

Sausage stuffers offer a faster, easier, and safer way to make sausage from your favorite recipe. They provide hunters with a way to process their kill and provide those who aren’t particularly fond of grocery store sausage a new option for enjoying sausages.

A Little History

The practice of eating sausages came about when butchers used to salt organs and tissues of butchered animals in order to preserve them. It was often the bottom of the barrel of scraps and it was highly salted to help in the preservation. Then, they would stuff the meat into casings that were often made of the animals’ intestines, which provided for the cylindrical shape that we know today.

But sausages actually go back even farther. The usage of the word sausage was recorded as long ago as in the Odyssey when Homer mentions a blood sausage. The sausage was believed to be one of the Gods’ favorite foods. Not much has changed, as it remains a favorite food for most people today.

How Do Sausage Stuffers work?

What has changed is the manner in which sausages are made. While they used to be made with a grinder alone and had to manually be forced through the casing, modern devices allow you to place meat pieces in a cylinder, and the rest is child’s play as you only need to turn a handle or step on a foot pedal. The meat that’s put into the sausage stuffer is immediately processed through the casing, eliminating much of the chance for pathogenic bacteria to form in the process. The meat goes right into the casing with minimal air (higher-end devices have air release valves), saving you a lot of time and energy.

Benefits Of Preparing Your Own Sausage

Why prepare your own sausage? Some people do it because it’s a good way to preserve a kill that they got on a hunt such as elk or deer. Others do it because they love the taste and intense aroma of home-made sausages. Finally, the most important reason why most people choose to make their own sausages is that you never know what’s in a store-bought sausage. How can someone guarantee that the sausages are made from 100% clean and high-quality meat?

The truth is, people are becoming more aware of the health dangers associated with store-bought sausages because they’re made from leftover cuts as well as wheat or rice flour as a filling. Making your own home-made sausage gives you full control over the contents of the sausage and it’s a much healthier alternative.

There’s a myriad of ways to make sausage and plenty of recipes you can use. You can find a vast array of them online or you can get a cookbook. It’s also fun just to experiment and see what you come up with.

How Much Do the Best Sausage Stuffers Cost?

There are a good number of sausage stuffers on the market today. They vary greatly as do their price tags. A basic, no-frills device can run around $100, some even less. Then there are medium ones that run in the $500 range. The premium models are apt to be $1,000 or a little more and deliver professional-grade performance.

How To Find the Best Sausage Stuffer?

The best sausage stuffer should make a great, uniform sausage each and every time you run it. It should operate like clockwork and it’s beneficial to have some metal parts instead of being completely made of plastic. However, regardless of the unit’s quality, sausage stuffers come in different sizes and orientations. Which one is the best choice for you?

Here are some useful factors you should consider before making a buying decision regarding a sausage stuffer.

Manual vs. Electric

Your first decision should be between a manual or an electric sausage stuffer. In general, electric sausage stuffers have a higher price tag, but they don’t require any muscle work and make the whole process a lot faster. Some of them come with a foot pedal for greater convenience, so your hands are completely free.

On the other hand, manual sausage stuffers can be operated anywhere since they don’t require a power outlet to work. Plus, you can get them in almost any size and shape, which means they’re easier to fit on your kitchen countertop or be stored in the counter. Think about what would work best for you before making a decision.

Horizontal vs. Vertical

There are two basic types of sausage stuffers – horizontal and vertical devices. This decision is mostly subjective, depending on what’s more comfortable for you, what your habits are, and in some cases your height. People have noticed that vertical sausage stuffers are more difficult to use by short people because of the way you need to apply force. This is completely up to you and it doesn’t affect the quality of the sausage, but it does affect how efficiently you can use the device.

Cylinder And Tube Capacity

There are two parts of the sausage stuffers you need to consider when discussing the size of the device.

First, you need to consider the size of the cylinder which determines how much meat you can put in your sausage stuffer before you have to reload the unit. Sausage stuffers with larger cylinders are pricer, but they’re also more convenient as you can make a lot of sausages before you have to stop and reload the machine. To determine what’s a good cylinder capacity for you, think about the quantities of meat you stuff in one day.

Second, consider the tube size which determines the size of your sausages. Some sausage stuffers come with a variety of tubes from different sizes. If you want to have more control over the size of your sausages, look for sausage stuffers that are more versatile.

Air Release Valve

To make sausage, you need to tightly stuff the meat into a casing. The machine does this thanks to a piston that pushes meat through the tube. It’s not uncommon for air to be trapped inside the casings during this process, which can make your casings vulnerable to breaking.

The best way to avoid this is to look for sausage stuffers that feature an air release valve.

Before You Go

Stuffing sausages can be an annoying and tiresome job or a quick and easy process – it all depends on whether you find the best sausage stuffer for your specific needs.

Hopefully, by now, you have a clear idea of what you need and you may have found the perfect match among our recommendations. However, if you’re still hesitant, let us remind you that you can check out the links where you can see current prices, in-depth product specifications, and customer reviews.

You can also check out our blog because we have many more product reviews, product guides, and even delicious recipes on which to test your new kitchen appliances.

Want to see our favorite sausage stuffers one more time before you go? Here they are!

Best Overall

Best Quality

Best on a Budget

Most Versatile

STX Turboforce Classic 3000 Meat Grinder And Sausage Stuffer

Features: Manual, vertical design, 5 lbs capacity, 3 different diameter stuffing tubes (13mm, 19mm, and 25mm), 2-year warranty.

Features: Manual, vertical design, 7 lbs/3l capacity, 2 speeds, 4 different diameter stuffing tubes (16mm, 22mm, 32mm, 38mm).

Features: Manual, horizontal design, 5 lbs capacity, 4 different stuffing tubes (14mm, 18mm, 21mm, and 25mm).

Features: Electrical, 1200 watts, 4 grinding plates, 3 stainless steel blades, 3 meat claws, 3 sausage tubes, 3-year warranty.

Best Overall

Features: Manual, vertical design, 5 lbs capacity, 3 different diameter stuffing tubes (13mm, 19mm, and 25mm), 2-year warranty.

Best Quality

Features: Manual, vertical design, 7 lbs/3l capacity, 2 speeds, 4 different diameter stuffing tubes (16mm, 22mm, 32mm, 38mm).

Best on a Budget

Features: Manual, horizontal design, 5 lbs capacity, 4 different stuffing tubes (14mm, 18mm, 21mm, and 25mm).

STX Turboforce Classic 3000 Meat Grinder And Sausage Stuffer

Most Versatile

Features: Electrical, 1200 watts, 4 grinding plates, 3 stainless steel blades, 3 meat claws, 3 sausage tubes, 3-year warranty.

The Best Pressure Canner Reviews

Appliances Reviewed is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Preserving food and preventing food-waste as practices are becoming more and popular, which means that finding the best kitchen appliances for this purpose is a big deal in people’s lives. We’ve already covered food vacuum sealers as one method of preserving food and you can check that article out later, but in the meantime, we’re going to take a closer look at some of the best pressure canners.

Pressure canning is a safe and reliable method to preserve food while keeping all of the nutrients active. It’s a wonderful way to preserve your garden harvest or get creative and make your own homemade jams that will last throughout the seasons.

If you’ve ever seen an old-style pressure canner, you might be amazed and a little bit intimidated by the impressive machinery, but let us reassure you – operating a pressure canner is really easy once you get the hand of it. This is why we created this article – to make sure you feel confident in your shopping decisions.

To avoid confusion when trying to filter through thousands of products on the market, we hand-picked the best pressure canners in four different categories and wrote detailed reviews for each of them. On top of that, at the end of this article, you can read our practical buying guide where we share some essential information about pressure canners.

The Best Pressure Canners

Best Overall

Best Quality

Best on a Budget

Best Safety Features

Presto 01781 Pressure Canner and Cooker, 23 qt, Silver

All American 1930: 21.5qt Pressure Cooker/Canner (The 921) - Exclusive Metal-to-Metal Sealing System - Easy to Open & Close - Suitable for Gas, Electric, or Flat Top Stoves - Made in the USA

Presto 01370 8-Quart Stainless Steel Pressure Cooker

T-fal Pressure Cooker Aluminum Pressure Canner, 22 Quart, 3 PSI Settings, Cookware, Pots and Pans, Large Capacity, Cooling Racks, Recipe Booket, Canning Vegetables, Meats, Poultry, Seafood, Silver

Features: 23-Quart liquid capacity (21.8 liters), 2-in-1 pressure canner and cooker, 12-year limited warranty.

Features: 21.5-Quart liquid capacity, 5, 10, and 15 psi options, 2-in-1 pressure canner and cooker, 1-year limited warranty.

Features: 8-Quart liquid capacity, 2-in-1 pressure canner and cooker, 12-year limited warranty.

Features: 22-Quart liquid capacity, 2-in-1 pressure canner and cooker, 5, 10 or 15 psi options, 10-year limited warranty.

Best Overall

Features: 23-Quart liquid capacity (21.8 liters), 2-in-1 pressure canner and cooker, 12-year limited warranty.

Best Quality

Features: 21.5-Quart liquid capacity, 5, 10, and 15 psi options, 2-in-1 pressure canner and cooker, 1-year limited warranty.

Best on a Budget

Features: 8-Quart liquid capacity, 2-in-1 pressure canner and cooker, 12-year limited warranty.

Best Safety Features

Features: 22-Quart liquid capacity, 2-in-1 pressure canner and cooker, 5, 10 or 15 psi options, 10-year limited warranty.

Best Overall: Presto 01781 23-Quart Canner/ Pressure Cooker

Presto is one of the most reputable brands in the industry, while the 01781 23-quart model is one of their best creations. We believe this is the best pressure canner overall as it offers a large capacity, strong construction, and a guarantee from Presto that you’re getting a product that will be reliable for over a decade. The Presto 01781 would be a good fit for most people.

Pros:

Presto 01781 is built from heavy-duty aluminum and has a wrap-resistant construction which gives the product a sturdy quality and ability to heat fast and evenly.

Aside from being strong and durable, Presto 01781 comes with great safety and advanced functionality features. For example, it includes a deluxe pressure dial that is able to register all processing pressures, ensuring the process can be carried out smoothly and without problems. Thanks to this the unit is more efficient and safer.

Large families would love the capacity of the Presto 01781 23-quart. The unit can hold up to 20 pints mason jars, which is more than many higher-end units can offer.

The impressive 12-year extended warranty definitely makes the Presto 01781 stand out from the crowd. Presto as a brand is very reliable, which means you’ll easily get replacement parts if something goes wrong, too.

Finally, the unit comes with an instruction and recipe booklet with over 50 recipes, which we believe is very beneficial for beginners and first-time users, as well as experienced cooks who want to spice things up in the kitchen.

Cons:

There’s a limit on where and how you can use the Presto 01781. For example, the unit can’t be used on gas burners outdoors. If this is a problem for you, check out our next recommendation.

Another issue for Presto 01781 is the gauge dial, which is quite delicate and needs to be handled very carefully.

The Verdict:

Regardless whether you’re a professional, amateur, or you have a large family to feed, the Presto 01781 is here to satisfy every need – canning or cooking-wise. Thanks to the high-quality materials, great safety features, large capacity, and the impressive warranty, we believe that this unit will be a great addition in any kitchen. Plus, the price makes this product affordable for most people.

Sale

Best Quality: All American 921 Canner/Pressure Cooker

The All American 921 pressure canner is the top of the line in its field as probably one of the best products designed ever. The product has a large price tag, too, but well justified. We can praise its durability, amazing construction, versatility, and superior controls that give confidence even to cooks who’ve always been too scared to use a pressure canner in the past.

Pros:

All American 921 has a heavy-duty construction from double aluminum, which basically means it’s made to be used frequently. It’s designed in a way that the aluminum is double-thickened on its edges, so it ensures the clamps are stable and strong. This means you’ll get a bullet-proof seal.

When it comes to the sealing mechanism, another advantage to the All American 921 is that it features a “metal-to-metal” sealing system. It means there’s no gasket and with that, no common gasket problems. Devices that use metal-to-metal systems are far more reliable and long-lasting than devices with twist and lock mechanisms.

Safety with the All American 921 is guaranteed. The unit has an automatic pressure release safety function, which means the pressure is constantly regulated to an optimal level.

All American 921 is very versatile, too, as it’s available in five different sizes and offers three different pressure settings (5,10, and 15 psi). While you can choose between 10.5-quarts and 41.5-quarts depending on your needs and preferences, the most popular model is the 21.5-quart model. The reason behind this is that it’s not too big, nor too small and can satisfy most people. The 21.5-quart model can hold around 19 standard regular mouth pint jars or 7 standard regular mouth quart jars.

Cons:

Except that this pressure canner is well above most people’s budget, there’s nothing much left for us to criticize – the unit has all five stars on Amazon, in spite of the fact that’s reviewed from more than 3,500 people. However, from the few people that weren’t as satisfied, we found out you should only buy the All American 921 from fully-stocked and reputable sellers that will be there for you if you need something addressed or replaced.

The Verdict:

All American 921 is the best of the best pressure canners out there. Although it’s not affordable for many people, the quality, safety, and performance it offers make up for the large price tag. This unit has anything you’ll ever need, but most importantly, it makes you feel safe and confident while operating with it.

Best on a Budget: Presto 01370 8-Quart Canner/Pressure Cooker

Presto 01370 is an amazing compact pressure canner and cooker, which shines where most large-scale devices fail. The unit can satisfy people that only cook for themselves, beginners, and people that are on a tight budget, without sacrificing quality and efficiency. If you feel like large pressure canners are overkill and feel overwhelming, Presto 01370 would be the right choice for you.

Pros:

The Presto 01370 has a stainless steel construction with a special tri-clad base that allows for fast, uniform heating. It’s great for both regular and smooth-top stoves. Plus, the unit comes with a stainless steel steaming basket which you can use to cook different foods at once without intermixing the flavors.

One very beneficial safety feature is the pressure regulator that’s included, which regulates pressure, temperature, and gives you more control over the whole process. There’s also a steam release valve for a “quick cool” option when you need it.

Another safety feature is the cover lock indicator which prevents you from opening the lid before all of the pressure is released. This is especially beneficial if this is your first pressure canner and you’re just starting with the practice.

The Presto 01370 doubles as a pressure cooker, just like all of our pricier recommendations, which is quite impressive considering its price. You can easily cook chicken, fish, meat, and vegetables in just a few minutes. It’s very beneficial for people who want to get that 2-in-1 feature without spending too much.

Cons:

Unfortunately, the Presto 01370 is very small and unsuitable for people that work with large food quantities at once.

Additionally, just like other models that use a gasket, after a while sealing the device completely might be a problem.

The Verdict:

There are many reasons for choosing Presto 01370 that its affordability seems like the cherry on top for everything else. The unit is very well built from high-quality materials, offers advanced safety features and it doubles as a pressure cooker just like the pricier models. The only real disadvantage is that the unit is very small which means it’s not suitable for large families.

Sale

Best Safety Features: T-fal Pressure 22-Quart Canner/Pressure Cooker

The T-fal 22-Quart pressure canner is our top choice as the safest device. Safety is a big deal for pressure canners and T-fal offers great features that will make you trust the whole process. It’s a great choice for beginners, people that have never used a pressure canner before, or anyone that’s scared to start pressure canning food.

Pros:

Starting from the safety features, the T-fal Pressure 22-Quart Canner offers an overpressure steam release safety function, a sure-locking lid system, three PSI settings, and a deluxe pressure gauge dial.

The overpressure steam release safety function follows the pressure levels and releases pressure if it becomes too high, ensuring optimal levels at all times.

The sure-locking lid system locks the lid when the pressure is high, preventing opening the device when it’s unsafe. You can only open it after the pressure is fully released.

Depending on what food you’re canning and for how much time, the three psi settings allow you to control and adjust the pressure level.

Aside from safety, the T-fal pressure canner has a polished aluminum finish and a heavy body that’s resistant to rust.

You can choose from two size capacities (6-quart and 22-quart size) as the T-fal is available in a small and large version.

Finally, included in the packages are two racks and a recipe book for sparking the creativity in your cooking endeavors.

Cons:

The handles are very delicate and unreliable so be careful while transporting the unit as they can become loose or even break after a couple of months.

Just like other twist and lock lid types, the gasket of the unit might be a problem after a while, as it makes it very hard to properly seal the pressure canner. If you don’t want to worry about gaskets, you might consider buying a metal-to-metal type such us our All American 921 Pressure Canner.

The Verdict:

The T-fall is one of the safest pressure canners available on the market as it offers an overpressure steam release safety function, a sure-locking lid system, three PSI settings, and a deluxe pressure gauge dial. Aside from that, the unit is made from high-quality materials and offers versatility as you can use the two racks for cooking different foods in one batch without intermixing the flavors.

Sale

T-fal Pressure 22-Quart Canner/Pressure Cooker

Conclusion:

The Presto 01781 is the best pressure canner overall as it strikes just the right balance between quality, durability, safety, and affordability. Plus, all that for a unit with a very large capacity. Presto it one of the most popular brands when it comes to pressure canners, and one of the reasons for that is because they back up their products with a 12-year warranty. Getting a safe, well-built unit with advanced functionalities from a brand that guarantees you’re going to use it for 12 years is probably the best deal anyone can make.

Even though capacity is not a problem for Presto 01781, the fact that it has a gasket and you can’t use it outdoors, on gas burners, can make some people look for something more powerful. When money is not an issue and you don’t want to compromise in any aspect, you should consider the All American 921, which is truly an impressive device. The device is extra strong, durable, and features a metal-to-metal sealing mechanism which prolongs its use significantly. The unit is also versatile and available in many sizes, so you can buy the one that fits your cooking and canning needs best.

When money is tight, Presto 01370 comes through as a smart choice. It’s made from high-quality materials and offers advanced safety features which will put many customers that might be concerned about safety when buying cheaper pressure canners at ease.

Finally, we chose the T-fal as the best pressure canner with great safety features. The unit is strong, durable, and versatile, but we believe it will appeal to people that want to feel secure when pressure canning above anything else.

Everything You Need To Know About Pressure Canners

A Little History

Pressure canning has been a practice of preserving foods for hundreds of years. The act of canning allows food to be packaged under extremely high temperatures and under very high pressure in order to keep it edible for an extended period of time. This is especially important for preserving seasonal fruits and vegetables, and making jams and jellies is especially popular.

It was in 1679 that the first pressure canner was invented. The device was made of cast iron and was successful in raising the water temperature to a very hot boil, but it was certainly not effective all of the time and often led to explosions. In 1810, the first real version of a pressure canner was developed. It sealed food in tin cans, but it was not perfect, as it was common for the food to become contaminated.

In 1858, with the invention of the Mason jar, which was made of glass, the act of canning was well on its way. By the 1970s, pressure canning was quite popular and safer as well.

The safety and effectiveness of pressure canning have been a work in progress for the past decades. Today, most units are thin-walled and lightweight kettles that have lids with gaskets that turn on. Alternatively, instead of gaskets, some canners are made of heavy cast aluminum with screw-down knobs around the canner.

How Does A Pressure Canner Work?

Pressure canners work by creating a very hot boil (above (240ºF/115ºC) in order to destroy harmful bacteria that can be found on low-acid food such as most vegetables, meat, and fish.

The boiling temperature can only be achieved under extreme pressure in a sealed pressure canner. The final goal is to preserve food, which can only be achieved if the microorganisms are destroyed and the food that’s sealed is clean – otherwise bacteria growth will spur over time.

When heat is applied, pressure canners boil the water to 212ºF/100ºC which is when steam forms. The steam will then drive the remaining air out of the open vents and into the jars. Once there’s no more air in the pressure canner, the vent will close and trap steam inside the canner. Steam continues to form but it can’t be released which means the pressure increases – during this time the heat gets distributed and affects the food ingredients, destroying bacteria and other harmful microorganisms.

When the process is completed and you turn off the heat, the boiling stops, which means the temperature and the pressure slowly start to cool off. Important: The vent must stay closed during this process because the sudden release of pressure makes the steam explosive.

Safety Features And Tips

Pressure canners can be extremely dangerous, which is why it’s imperative to read over all materials containing information about the unit and to proceed with caution. This guide from the National Center for Home Food Preservation is also a useful reference.

To make pressure canners safer, manufacturers offer:

Certificates for safety standards – to justify the claim that the device is safe, brands must pass a series of standardized tests for fire, electric shock, and related potential causes of accidental injury. These tests are conducted by independent agencies like UL (Underwriters Laboratories) or CUL (Canadian Underwriters Laboratories). Look for UL and CUL labels.
Automatic overpressure plug – a flap that opens if too much pressure builds up in the canner. The flap will open and the pressure will be brought back to normal levels.
Interlock lid – a feature that prevents users to open the lid when the pressure is still high.
Metal rack – the rack keeps the jars off the bottom and prevents breaking.

How to care for the pressure canner?

Make sure the canner is well cleaned before using it. You can simply wash it with warm water and soap, rinse it, and let it dry.
If the canner is store someplace where the temperature is different than your room temperature, allow it to adjust before using it or before storing it after use. If there’s a sudden change in temperature the aluminum might crack.
Never leave food or liquid in the pressure canner after using it. Make sure you always clean it thoroughly.
Read the instructions on how to clean the lid carefully. For example, if your lid is dial-gauge immersing it in water can lead to rusting. Different types of pressure canners require different cleaning methods.
Some gaskets require lubricating with vegetable oil once or twice per year to make sure they work properly and to prolong their life.
Carefully check if the petcock, vents, and/or weights are clean before using the pressure canner.

Finally, if you follow the instructions and care for your pressure canner properly, there’s nothing to be worried about as today’s models are very safe.

How Much You Should Expect To Pay For A Pressure Canner

The price of a pressure canner can vary greatly. The price usually correlates with the number of features the unit has and the size of the device as well. There are those that start at around $50 and are very basic. There are also units that go all the way up to $250 and upward. The moderate price for a pressure canner with at least some specialized features is around $100, but this can vary greatly depending on your needs and preferences.

How To Find the Best Pressure Canner?

The best pressure canners make canning quicker, easier, and more convenient. There are some basic things that all pressure canners offer. For example, they should be safe and should preserve the food properly to prevent contamination. Some deliver on that and some do not. There are also pressure canners that have specialized features. Below are some things you may want to consider before making a buying decision.

Capacity

For most people, the most important feature when looking for a pressure canner is the capacity. As you may have noticed, pressure canners measure capacity in quarts, which is equivalent to two pints (32 fluid ounces) or four cups. The smallest pressure canners can usually hold up to 4×1 liter (four cups) jars or containers. On the other hand, large canners go up to 23 quarts (22 liters/90 cups) and even more if you’re looking for large-scale machines.

Some pressure canners offer double racks so you can stack two layers of jars, which is very beneficial if you want a more compact device that can still hold a big batch.

Another thing you should have in mind regarding the pressure canner’s capacity is the size of the jars you’re using. Product specifications refer to standard-mouth jars, so if you’re using wider jars, keep in mind that you won’t be able to can as many jars as advertised.

Lids

The most important thing you should know about lids is that there are two basic types. First, you have the twist and lock lid type, which uses a gasket and a lag at the edge of the kettle.

The second type is the metal-on-metal lid which locks thanks to a set of clamps positioned all around the lid. Typically, metal-on-metal lids are not as aesthetically pleasing as the first, but they are much stronger, more reliable, and also pricier.

Gaskets

As we mentioned, twist and lock lid types use a gasket to help create a full seal. Many devices use this mechanism, so we thought it was important to include gaskets on our list. Unfortunately, they’re made of plastic and prone to breaking after a while. It’s imperative to look for brands that offer replacement parts for their pressure canners. You don’t want to find yourself in a situation where you have to give up your favorite pressure canner just because the gasket is wearing off.

Before You Go

Did you find the best pressure canner for you among our recommendations? If you’re not sure, make sure to follow the title links where you can find specific prices, in-depth product descriptions, and customer reviews from all around the world.

In any case, keep our buying guide in mind whenever you’re shopping for pressure canners to make sure you don’t forget anything important.

And finally, head over to our blog for more product reviews, product guides, and even delicious recipes. Your next favorite kitchen appliances might be in some of our articles.

Want to see our favorite pressure canners one more time before you go? Here they are!

Best Overall

Best Quality

Best on a Budget

Best Safety Features

Features: 23-Quart liquid capacity (21.8 liters), 2-in-1 pressure canner and cooker, 12-year limited warranty.

Features: 21.5-Quart liquid capacity, 5, 10, and 15 psi options, 2-in-1 pressure canner and cooker, 1-year limited warranty.

Features: 8-Quart liquid capacity, 2-in-1 pressure canner and cooker, 12-year limited warranty.

Features: 22-Quart liquid capacity, 2-in-1 pressure canner and cooker, 5, 10 or 15 psi options, 10-year limited warranty.

Best Overall

Features: 23-Quart liquid capacity (21.8 liters), 2-in-1 pressure canner and cooker, 12-year limited warranty.

Best Quality

Features: 21.5-Quart liquid capacity, 5, 10, and 15 psi options, 2-in-1 pressure canner and cooker, 1-year limited warranty.

Best on a Budget

Features: 8-Quart liquid capacity, 2-in-1 pressure canner and cooker, 12-year limited warranty.

Best Safety Features

Features: 22-Quart liquid capacity, 2-in-1 pressure canner and cooker, 5, 10 or 15 psi options, 10-year limited warranty.

The Best Home Deep Fryer Reviews

Appliances Reviewed is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

French fries, onion rings, buffalo wings, and calamari are just some of the things that first pop in everyone’s mind when talking about fried food. And, let’s face it – whether it’s potato or onion, everyone has their guilty pleasures when it comes to fried goods.

However, to make sure the food truly is a pleasure, you’ll want the best home deep fryer, and we’re here to help you find it. We did our research and hand-picked the best of the best home deep fryers in four different categories. Whether you’re a beginner, an experienced home cook, or you have a large family and you need something big – we have your back with our recommendations.

Most home deep fryers on the market today are fully equipped with standard features like an oil filtration system, various size capacity, and an adjustable thermostat. But, there are many advanced functionalities you should keep your eye on, as they transform the frying process and deliver impeccable results.

In our buying guide, we discuss everything you need to know (and more) so you can make the right decision, so keep reading.

The Best Home Deep Fryer

Best Overall

Best Quality

Best on a Budget

Most Versatile

T-fal 3.5L Deep Fryer with Basket, 1700W, Oil Filtration, Temp Control, Digital Timer, Dishwasher Safe Parts

Cuisinart CDF-170 3.4-Quart Deep Fryer, Stainless Steel

Presto 05420 FryDaddy Electric Deep Fryer,Black

Presto 06006 Kitchen Kettle Multi-Cooker/Steamer, Black

Features: 1700 watts, 0.9-gallon oil capacity, 2.65-pound food capacity, two-position baskets, 1-year warranty.

Features: 1800 watts, 1-gallon oil capacity, 2.3-pound food capacity, 3-year warranty.

Features: 1200 watts, 0.25 gallons oil capacity, 1-pound food capacity, 1-year warranty.

Features: 1200 watts, 1-pound food capacity, 1-year warranty.

Best Overall

Features: 1700 watts, 0.9-gallon oil capacity, 2.65-pound food capacity, two-position baskets, 1-year warranty.

Best Quality

Features: 1800 watts, 1-gallon oil capacity, 2.3-pound food capacity, 3-year warranty.

Best on a Budget

Features: 1200 watts, 0.25 gallons oil capacity, 1-pound food capacity, 1-year warranty.

Most Versatile

Features: 1200 watts, 1-pound food capacity, 1-year warranty.

Best Overall: T-fal FR8000 Deep Fryer

Our best overall pick is the T-fal FR8000 deep fryer, as we believe this is a high-quality unit, made for every-day use. The model prides itself on the unique filtration system, high power, and easy cleanup design, which will satisfy most people who want to avoid a big mess.

Pros:

The first thing we want to praise is the T-fal FR8000’s powerful performance and large capacity. The unit has 1700 watts of heat power, which cooks around 2.5 pounds of food in 1 gallon of oil. With just one batch, you can easily prepare food for your close family or even a small gathering of friends – and you won’t spend much time in the kitchen.

The fryer’s performance speaks a lot about its reliability, too. Thanks to the immersed heating element, the T-fal FR8000 will quickly achieve its desired temperature and fry each food piece evenly.

However, the feature that truly sets T-fal FR8000 apart from the competition is the unique oil filtration system. The device comes with two-position baskets, one on top of the other, and a filter between them. On the display control, you’ll find a dial that allows you to initiate the automatic oil filtration system. Once this happens, the filter will clean the oil and empty the filtered oil into the second basket – ready for your next frying session.

When it comes to convenience and maintenance, the T-fal FR8000 model comes through with dishwasher-safe parts. All you have to do is disassemble the inner container and toss it in the dishwasher.

Cons:

Unfortunately, the device is not suitable for small kitchens, as the unit is quite big and will take up a lot of space.

Additionally, some customers have complained that T-fal doesn’t offer replacement parts for the fryer, which means that if something breaks and it’s beyond repair, you’ll have to replace the whole unit or buy a new one.

The Verdict:

The T-fal FR8000 has it all, from power and efficiency to capacity and convenience. Although it’s far from being cheap, the T-fal FR8000 has a reasonable price considering everything it has to offer, which is why we believe it will be an excellent fit for most people. The unit is great for families and people who enjoy fried food daily.

Sale

Best Quality: Cuisinart CDF-170 4-Quart Deep Fryer

Buying the best quality product means getting a sturdy, durable device with enough capacity to feed your whole family, which is everything the Cuisinart CDF-170 can offer. The unit is mighty and easy to clean, too, meaning you’ll get perfectly fried food every time without any effort.

Pros:

A little more powerful than our best overall pick, the Cuisinart CDF-170 doesn’t disappoint with its1800-watt immersion heating element. The unit heats up fast and fries food in no time. You can cook up to 2.3-pounds of food in one batch, and you’ll need around 1 gallon of oil for that.

The Cuisinart CDF-170 features a control panel that includes a digital 60-minute timer, so you can set it up to remind you when it’s time to turn it off. The control panel also consists of a temperature control dial, which means you control every aspect of the frying process. You can even watch the food being fried through a glass window positioned on the lid.

The deep fryer is well-built from durable, high-quality materials. The unit features a heavy stainless steel basket that has a cool-touch handle. You can easily operate the device without fearing burns or hot-oil splashes.

Aside from frying french fries, potatoes, onion rings, and chicken wings, you can also fry vegetables, donuts, and even seafood.

Finally, Cuisinart backs this model with a three-year warranty, which is quite impressive as it’s the longest warranty among our recommendations, and probably the whole industry.

Cons:

We don’t advise using the device in closed, not ventilated areas, as it’s not well insulated and can leave your room smelling of fried food.

Just like the T-fal unit, the Cuisinart deep fryer is big and will take up a lot of space on the kitchen counter, so keep the dimensions in mind before buying.

The Verdict:

Cuisinart did a fantastic job creating the CDF-170 deep fryer, as the unit is very well-built, durable, sturdy, and efficient. Considering its advanced functionalities, like the adjustable timing and temperature, the Cuisinart CDF-170 is, without a doubt, an appealing choice for professionals and experienced cooks.

Sale

Best on a Budget: Presto 05420 FryDaddy Electric Deep Fryer

When it comes to deep fryers, Presto is one of the most reputable brands in the industry, which means their compact and inexpensive 05420 model should not be underestimated. The unit is very efficient and extremely convenient. It’s the perfect choice for smaller families, couples, students, or anyone who appreciates simplicity.

Pros:

Not only is the device affordable, but it will further save you money on oil, as it has a 4:4 oil to food ration. This means that you only need four cups of oil to make four servings of your favorite fried food.

Beginners will especially love this device as it’s very user-friendly and straightforward to operate with. In fact, there are no controls to set because the machine automatically keeps the right temperature needed for frying the food to perfection.

The whole surface of the unit is coated with a non-stick material, both inside and out. You don’t have to worry about oil stains or cleaning time, as everything will come right off with soap and warm water.

The Presto 05420 is convenient and perfect for small kitchens. The device is compact, which means it can fit on any kitchen counter, and it also features a secure snap-op lid that stores the oil inside the fryer.

Cons:

While for some people, having a convenient and small appliance can be an advantage, for others, this can be viewed as a limitation. Experienced cooks and fry foods-enthusiasts won’t like the low capacity and no temperature control.

Another drawback is that the lid and the outer surface is plastic and gets super hot while frying, which means you can burn yourself if not careful.

The Verdict:

The Presto 06006 is a great deep fryer when you’re on a budget, or you want something simple and straightforward. Since there are no fancy controls to set and cleaning up is pretty easy, there’s nothing much you need to think about when using the device. The unit is designed to make your life easier and a lot tastier.

Most Versatile: Presto 06006 Kitchen Kettle Multi-Cooker

It’s completely understandable to want a kitchen appliance that can do more than just fry food, which is why we believe the Presto 06006 can be a good fit for many cooking enthusiasts. For a reasonable price, you’re getting a versatile product that can steam, simmer, roast, cook, and fry.

Pros:

Since it’s our most versatile pick, versatility is the unit’s most important feature. You can make soups, casserole, pasta, steam vegetables, or roast beef, pork, poultry, and even fish. Some customers have even said they use it to melt wax – so the possibilities of what you can cook or do with this device are endless.

Another advantage that also contributes to the versatility and flexibility of the Presto 06006 is the “Control Master” heat control, which you can regulate to achieve the desired temperature. Not only does this give you more control over the cooking process, but it also allows you to cook stew. Simply lower the heat to a minimum, and the Presto 06006 will double as a slow cooker.

The Presto 06006 comes with a glass lid, so you can see and follow the cooking process from beginning to end. This minimizes the chances of under-fried or burned food.

Finally, the device is easy to clean as it’s entirely dishwasher safe – of course, only after the heat control is removed.

Cons:

The drawback is that while versatile, the Presto 06006 is small – it can fry up to 1-pound of food at one bach. While this might not be a big deal for most, some people with big families might find this very limiting.

Additionally, the power cord attaches weirdly and might fall apart, according to some customers.

The Verdict:

This little appliance, designed primarily as a multi-cooker, proved to be amazingly handy in the kitchen and more than efficient as a deep fryer. It’s the perfect choice for people who want something practical they can use daily for a variety of meals.

Conclusion:

According to us and thousands of customers who weren’t shy about praising the device, T-fal FR8000 is the best home deep fryer on the market these days. If you’re looking for a large capacity unit that offers a lot of power and delivers flawless results every time, you should consider the T-fal’s model.

However, when money is not an issue, and you want the best quality without any compromises, then you should consider the Cuisinart CDF-170 deep fryer. By buying this device, you’re getting a large, efficient product designed to give you control over the frying process so you can make sure every ingredient is fried to your taste.

To contrast the overwhelming controls of the Cuisinart model, we have the small and simplistic Presto 06006 as our top budget-pick option. Offering quality and the bare essentials, the Presto 06006 will fry any food you put inside and still make it easy when it’s time to clean up. It’s the smart choice for beginners, occasional friers, students, and people with small kitchens.

Another small and convenient Presto deep fryer is the Presto 06006, which is our most versatile pick. The unit rightfully deserves its title as it can steam, simmer, roast, slow cook, fry, or even melt wax. Presto 06006 includes some advanced functionalities, and is easy to use and maintain, making it a very appealing home deep fryer.

Everything You Need To Know About Home Deep Fryers

There’s no denying that fried food is delicious and addictive! However, it’s not that easy to make. The oil needs to be at the perfect temperature, not too cold and not too hot. The timing also needs to be just right. If you do it right, the food turns out nice and crispy on the outside and tender and juicy on the inside. But if it’s not done correctly, it will be soggy and oily or burned.

Home deep fryers take away the guesswork because they’re designed to create the perfect conditions for frying foods.

Frying food has been around for hundreds of years, given that our ancestors fried food as a method of preservation. The first deep-frying units were merely pots of grease in which the food could be dropped into. There were no fancy baskets to submerge and no temperature dials to control the heat of the oil. However, in recent years, a lot of things have changed. Today, a wide array of home deep fryers are available and affordable.

Types Of Deep Fryers

Typically, you can find three basic types of deep fryers.

Electric Deep Fryer

Electric deep fryers are the most popular for home use, and you’ll find a lot of different models with different functionalities. Since they’re used indoors, they’re generally smaller and more affordable than propane deep fryers. As the name suggests, the devices use electricity, which makes them safer than propane options.

Propane Deep Fryer

Chefs and fry-gurus might argue for propane deep fryers as they tend to deliver crispier and smokier results. However, they’re more complicated to operate with, and beginners should be cautious. Unfortunately, the most significant limitation when it comes to propane-type fryers is that they can’t be used indoors.

Air Fryer

Some people might not even count air fryers in the deep fryer category since they don’t use oil – which is the whole point of frying. However, their popularity grows and they represent a reliable alternative for people who like the taste of fried foods but also want a healthier option. Aside from being healthier, air fryers are more comfortable to maintain and clean, and they’re the safest fryers of all the types. On the downside, they’re a little pricier, and the taste will be different than traditional deep fryers.

Construction Quality And Functionalities

Most deep fryers are either made of cast iron or stainless steel. There are oblong versions, canister types, and skillet types as well. On the inside, some have a non-stick coating. There is usually a basket that comes with the unit, although in cheaper models, you might have to purchase it separately. Some sport a dual basket set up, which is nice for cooking more than one type of food at a time.

The upscale models generally have temperature controls, thermometers, a grease drain system, and an indicator light that lights up when the grease is hot enough to put the food in. Some have safety features such as automatic shut-offs and other helpful add-ons and certifications. Property damage caused by fryers amounts to millions each year, not to mention injuries. So safety is one consideration that should be taken into account when shopping for the best home deep fryer – but we’ll talk about safety features in detail later in the text.

Different fryers have different power capacities. There are units with higher wattage ratings that have more powerful heating elements. These tend to heat the oil quicker and bring it up to the desired temperature faster, too. This results in added convenience and better taste, in general.

While frying foods is nothing new, the use of modern home deep fryers is changing and improving all the time. The frying units your grandparents used are nothing like the fancy, luxurious ones of today, though, it’s your job to find the best one for you.

How To Find the Best Home Deep Fryer?

The expectations for the best home deep fryer are set high – you’ll want food fried to perfection every time. Some things about a home deep fryer are essential and are shared by all models regardless of their price, but there are those that have unique features as well.

When choosing a device, it’s important to compare different models to find the one that best suits your needs. Below are some things to take into consideration when doing so.

Capacity

Think about how many people you are cooking dinner for on a daily basis. Do you need a large machine that is capable of feeding a crowd with one batch, or you’re looking for something smaller? Preparing meals for a large family, gatherings, or even parties can be time-consuming and not worth it if you own a small deep fryer.

Typically, you’ll see deep fryers with labels like “4-cup”, “6-cup”, or “12-cup”, which gives you an estimate of how many servings you’ll get from one batch. For example, a 4-cup deep fryer makes approximately two servings.

Be careful, while some units may come with a smaller basket size, they offer multiple baskets settings. For example, if a unit has a 4-cup basket size, but provides two baskets, that equals an 8-cup deep fryer with one basket.

Safety Features

High-quality safety features are an essential concern, considering you’ll be operating with large quantities of scalding oil. Unfortunately, that makes deep fryers prone to starting fires, which is why you’ll want to buy a device that’s very well built and has advanced safety features like adjustable timing, oil quantities, and temperature, automatic shut-off setting, break-off cord, and so on.

Additional Features

Deep fryers have a lot of different features and functionalities. You may not even know you need them, but they’re sure nice to have. Some of those features are:

Oil Change Indicator – some fryers feature an indicator that notifies you when it’s time to change the oil.
Oil Drainage System – one of the most annoying tasks when operating a deep fryer is disposing of the oil, which is why buying a device that has an oil drainage system can genuinely make things easier.
Built-in Thermostat – so you can accurately control the temperature.
Multiple Deep Fry Baskets – if you want to fry two or more different ingredients at once, the multiple basket feature is a necessity.
Cool Touch Handles – to make sure you don’t burn yourself while frying, look for models featuring handles or covers that stay cool when touched.

Before You Go

Finding the best home deep fryer is not an easy job, but that’s why we’re here to help. Hopefully, you’ve already found your perfect match among our recommendations, but in case you’re still hesitant, don’t forget to follow the links where you can check out current prices, in-depth product specifications, and customer reviews.

Also, make sure you visit our blog because we have many more product reviews and product guides essential for any kitchen. You can even find delicious recipes that will undoubtedly enrich your cooking experience.

Want to see our favorite home deep fryers one more time before you go? Here they are!

Best Overall

Best Quality

Best on a Budget

Most Versatile

Features: 1700 watts, 0.9-gallon oil capacity, 2.65-pound food capacity, two-position baskets, 1-year warranty.

Features: 1800 watts, 1-gallon oil capacity, 2.3-pound food capacity, 3-year warranty.

Features: 1200 watts, 0.25 gallons oil capacity, 1-pound food capacity, 1-year warranty.

Features: 1200 watts, 1-pound food capacity, 1-year warranty.

Best Overall

Features: 1700 watts, 0.9-gallon oil capacity, 2.65-pound food capacity, two-position baskets, 1-year warranty.

Best Quality

Features: 1800 watts, 1-gallon oil capacity, 2.3-pound food capacity, 3-year warranty.

Best on a Budget

Features: 1200 watts, 0.25 gallons oil capacity, 1-pound food capacity, 1-year warranty.

Most Versatile

Features: 1200 watts, 1-pound food capacity, 1-year warranty.

The Best Bread Machine For Amazing Bread At Home

April 17, 2024 Kristin Byrne Popular Buying Guides, Ultimate Guides

Appliances Reviewed is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Don’t you just love the smell of homemade bread baking? And it’s not just the smell – bread-lovers are quite attached to the unforgettable taste of a freshly baked bread, as that makes this whole endeavor worth it. That being said, baking bread is messy and time-consuming, which is why most people buy bread at the local supermarket. But this is all about to change, thanks to bread machines.

The best bread machine will take all of the work out of baking bread. All you’ve got to do is put in the bread mix, or add in your flour mixture if you prefer, and then turn the machine on according to its instructions. In just a few hours or later in the day, you’ll have fresh, warm bread! But not all bread makers deliver mouth-watering results, which is why we hand-picked the best products on the market and wrote honest reviews about each of them.

Make sure to also read our essential buying guide at the end of the article, where you can learn a lot more information on how to choose the best bread machine for your specific needs and preferences.

The Best Bread Machine

Best Overall

Best Quality

Best on a Budget

Most Versatile

Zojirushi BB-PDC20BA Home Bakery Virtuoso Plus Breadmaker, 2 lb. loaf of bread

Zojirushi Home Bakery Supreme Breadmaker

Oster Expressbake Breadmaker, 2-lb. Loaf Capacity, 2 lb, White/Ivory

Breville Custom Loaf Bread Maker BBM800XL, Brushed Stainless Steel

Features: 700 watts power, double kneading blades, dual heaters, 15 pre-programmed settings.

Features: 700 watts power, double kneading blades, ten pre-programmed settings, three crust shades.

Features: 650 watts power, 12 bread settings, three crust settings, 13-hour programmable baking timer.

Features: 830 watts power, collapsible kneading paddle, 13 automatic settings, three crust colors, four loaf sizes, 46 step by step recipes.

Best Overall

Features: 700 watts power, double kneading blades, dual heaters, 15 pre-programmed settings.

Best Quality

Features: 700 watts power, double kneading blades, ten pre-programmed settings, three crust shades.

Best on a Budget

Features: 650 watts power, 12 bread settings, three crust settings, 13-hour programmable baking timer.

Most Versatile

Features: 830 watts power, collapsible kneading paddle, 13 automatic settings, three crust colors, four loaf sizes, 46 step by step recipes.

Best Overall: Zojirushi Home Bakery Virtuoso Plus Breadmaker

We believe that the breadmaker that can satisfy most people is the Zojirushi Home Bakery Virtuoso Plus. It’s a great model from a very reputable brand that exceeds most people’s expectations by baking the perfect loaf of bread each and every time. The unit features a bunch of advanced functionalities while still being straightforward to use, so it would be a good pick for both experienced bakers and newbies.

Pros:

We especially loved the double kneading blades and dual heaters because we believe they’re responsible for the impeccable results the Zojirushi Virtuoso Plus model delivers. The device has a longer loaf tub, which makes a more typical-sized loaf bread. It can make a 2-pound traditional rectangular loaf in its inner cooking pan, but because of the dual heaters (top and bottom), the dough will be consistently browned on all sides.

Versatility is another aspect where Zojirushi Virtuoso Plus shines. The unit has 15 pre-programmed both fixed and custom settings. You can also choose between three crust shades: light, medium, and dark. On top of that, the machine has a few rapid courses for fast results – you can have a whole bread in just 2 hours and 25 minutes.

When it comes to personalization and custom settings, the Zojirushi model allows you to create three custom profiles on which you can adjust the timing for each phase.

The best of its higher-end functionalities is the timer with a delay setting, which means you can set to delay the end of the baking cycle by up to 13 hours! There’s no better feeling than coming back home to a freshly baked bread after a hard day at work.

Zojirushi Virtuoso Plus comes on top as the best bread machine for most people because it’s user-friendly, which makes it an excellent choice for beginners, and it’s a high-quality model that does its job. The unit features a large, easy-to-read LCD display with a convenient keycode on the lid, which simplifies course selection.

Cons:

When it comes to loaf sizes, the Zojirushi Virtuoso Plus comes behind our other recommendations. Even though you’ll get a lot of versatility when it comes to bread type, you are limited to one size.

The Verdict:

If you want to invest in a top-of-the-line bread machine that delivers flawless results every time, you should choose the Zojirushi Virtuoso Plus. It’s a high-quality unit, designed to make bread-lovers very happy. By buying this machine, you’re getting exceptional performance, excellent versatility, and a user-friendly interface.

Best Quality: Zojirushi BB-CEC20 Home Bakery Supreme

The Zojirushi BB-CEC20 Supreme is our highest-quality pick as it has the same features and functionalities as our best overall pick, and offers a little bit more. The unit is also quieter, more comfortable to maintain and clean, as well as pricier. It’s the right choice for people who don’t mind spending some extra bucks for that added level of convenience.

Pros:

Just like the Virtuoso Plus, Zojirushi BB-CEC20 Supreme delivers a fantastic performance. It’s a little bit more potent than our best overall pick, and it also features dual functionality for making 2lbs rectangle loafs.

The device is versatile and very easy to use as it comes with ten pre-programmed settings and three crust shades for baking a variety of different bread types. And when you realize that you can use it to cook meatloaf, strawberry jam, chocolate cake, and so much more it becomes even more impressive.

You can also delay the baking time for up to 13 hours, so you can wake up or come home to a homemade bread, baked to perfection.

The Zojirushi BB-CEC20 features a large viewing window that allows you to observe the baking process.

As an added convenience, the Zojirushi BB-CEC20 has a removable nonstick bread pan, which makes the maintaining and cleaning process a piece of cake.

The unit also has a 10-minute power failure back-up and an auto shut-off system for added safety.

Cons:

It’s hard to find a downside to a model like this one, but one thing some customers complain about is customer service. This isn’t directly related to the device itself, but it’s something you should consider when investing a lot of money into a product.

The Verdict:

In our opinion, the Zojirushi BB-CEC20 Home Bakery Supreme is the best splurge, as it delivers impressive quality and performance with an added level of convenience and comfort to ensure impeccable results. Professionals and homemade bread enthusiasts will be most happy with how easy to use, maintain, and clean this device is, as well as its versatility.

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Best on a Budget: Oster Bread Maker

Simple and affordable, yet powerful and versatile – the Oster took our best-on-a-budget spot. The unit is a perfect choice for people looking for a cost-effective and pretty straightforward device that they can use to make some healthy loaves.

Pros:

The best quality of the affordable Oster model is its versatility. The unit features 12 bread settings and three crust settings, just like most higher-end models. Plus, it can make loaves in different sizes – 1-pound, 1.5-pound, and the maximum 2-pound bread loaf.

Best of all, it’s super fast. While both of the Zojirushi’s models have rapid settings, their fastest option is somewhere around two hours. On the other hand, the Oster’s express-bake setting bakes bread in under an hour – 45 minutes according to the brand.

The Oster bread machine matches Zojirushi’s 13-hour delay timer, which is pretty impressive. You can set the timer up to 13 hours later and enjoy a freshly made bread anytime.

Cons:

One of the drawbacks of this model is that it’s very loud, which doesn’t affect the bread quality, but it can be very annoying.

Additionally, some customers didn’t like the quality of the mixing paddles.

The Verdict:

When budget is a priority, the Oster model comes to the rescue as it’s a high-quality device that makes a lot of different, delicious bread loaves. Everything that you’ll ever need in a bread machine and more can be found in the Oster model. The unit bakes different sized loaves of bread, offers 12 pre-programmed settings, three crust shades, and a 13-hour delay timer. The product is a real bargain, considering its price.

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Oster Bread Maker

Most Versatile: Breville BBM800XL Custom Loaf Bread Maker

Aside from the Zojirushi Virtuoso Plus, the Breville BBM800XL is another exceptionally well-rounded bread machine that came very close to being our top choice, but because of its superior versatility, we believe that it absolutely deserves the ‘most versatile bread machine’ title.

Pros:

With 830 watts, Breville BBM800XL is the most potent bread machine out of all our recommendations. The unit is more than capable of delivering a perfectly baked loaf, regardless of the recipe.

One feature that you won’t find in the other recommendations is the automatic fruit and nut dispenser. What this means is that you can add nuts or fruits in the beginning, when you add the other ingredients, and the device will release them at the right moment during the knead phase, so they spread evenly within the dough.

On top of that, the Breville BBM800XL features 13 different pre-programmed settings, three crust shades, and four loaf sizes. Sizes include a 1.0-pound, 1 ½ -pound, 2-pound, and 2 ½ -pound bread loaf – perfect for large families.

When it comes to personalization and custom settings, the Breville BBM800XL comes out as an absolute winner. While the Zojirushi model allows you to create three custom profiles in which you can adjust the time, Breville enables you to create nine different profiles. You can customize not just the time, but the temperature for each profile, too.

If you buy the Breville BBM800XL, you’ll also get 46 step-by-step recipes for different traditional bread types, and the ability to create custom recipes too.

Cons:

Breville is made of thin, unpolished brushed aluminum, which dents very easily, so you need to be extremely careful while operating with the device.

Also, the kneading paddles can be hard to clean.

The Verdict:

Professionals and experienced bread-makes will probably be most pleased with the ultimate versatility and the custom features of the Breville model. With Breville, not only are you creatively unlimited in the recipes you can create, but the whole process is designed to perfection. You can add all of your ingredients in the beginning, including your special nuts and fruits, and the device will add them when the time is right.

Conclusion:

The popular Zojirushi Virtuoso Plus model is our best overall pick. The unit is expensive, but considering its performance, high-end functionalities, and versatile settings, we say it’s a purchase that you can’t go wrong with. Zojirushi as a brand has outdone itself with this model due to the second heater on the lid, which will surprise you with how evenly it browns the bread.

Our highest-quality pick comes from the same brand too – the Zojirushi BB-CEC20 Home Bakery Supreme model. Just like the Virtuoso Plus, the Supreme model has double-blades, a 13-hour delay timer, and a decent amount of pre-program settings. However, the Zojirushi BB-CEC20 is more powerful, easier to use and maintain, and more durable.

Zojirushi is an amazing brand, yet for many people, it’s out of their price range. Fortunately, the Oster bread maker offers similar quality and advanced functionalities for a price that’s three to four times lower. The unit is straightforward, compact, versatile, and incredibly fast. It’s the perfect choice for most people with a busy schedule.

Breville BBM800XL can easily compete with our best overall pick, considering everything it has to offer. Although we believed the Zojirushi Virtuoso Plus was a little better overall, Breville knocks the competition out of the park when it comes to versatility. Aside from the fixed 13 different pre-programmed settings, the unit allows for nine custom profiles where you can change the time and temperature. Although beginners might be overwhelmed at first, professionals will certainly appreciate the flexibility.

Everything You Need To Know About Bread Machines

How Do Bread Machines Work?

One of the most significant issues to the average home cook in regards to baking bread is making the time to get this task done. You first have to create the dough and work in the yeast so that it can adequately rise. You also have to find a way to wrap up the dough and place it in a warm environment so it can finish the raising phase – and all that before you even begin to bake the dough. The worst part is – you have to repeat this process once, twice, or more depending on your recipe. That’s an all-day process just for a loaf of bread!

When you own a bread machine, all of these processes are automated. You don’t have to do anything at all – except add the ingredients. Simply throw the ingredients into the inner baking tin and let the bread machine do all of the work for you! Bread machines have built-in paddles that are responsible for the kneading process. The inner tin also doubles as a baking oven, which bakes the loaf of bread evenly, after the kneading and rising phases are done.

The cycles or phases are different for different bread types, which is why bread makers come with pre-programmed settings customized for specific bread types. Some higher-end devices even allow you to customize the process so that you can have control over the mixing and rising phases, as well as the timing and temperature.

Types Of Bread Machines

There are two basic types of bread machines that are available right now.

Vertical breadmakers.

These bread machines often take up a lot less space, but in return, they give you a uniquely shaped loaf of bread. The bread ends up baking vertically, so there is often a very puffy top at the end of the dough, and the remainder of it looks a lot like a bread “brick.” These are often the most affordable bread machines, and they will do a reasonably good job if you invest in high-quality ingredients.

Horizontal breadmakers.

This type of bread machine gives you more of a traditionally shaped loaf of bread. Many of the devices contain dual internal mixers instead of a single one like the vertical machines do, which means you’ll have two baked-in holes in your loaf of bread instead of one. On the other hand, horizontal bread machines bake all-purpose flour loaves more consistently and will give you better performance on most gluten-free recipes as well.

Tips For Making A Perfect Loaf Of Bread

For the most convenience in the kitchen today, you’ll want to look for a breadmaker that will make the bread from start to finish without the need of you babysitting it, or give you a timer so that you can include nuts, fruits, or spices into your mixture at the appropriate time. Just remember not to use milk when you’re using active yeast so that you don’t end up wasting your money as yeast and milk interfere with each other.

Don’t be shy about trying new recipes or adding your ingredients. Make your own sourdough starter if you wish or create a stunning loaf of Italian bread to go with your spaghetti that evening. Cinnamon loaves are incredibly easy to make, and with quick bake options, you can even have some banana bread ready in under an hour!

If you’re investing in a bread machine, you may wish to grab an electric knife to assist with the slicing of your bread. Some models can be had for less than $15, which makes this a minor investment for the comfort and ease this appliance can bring to slicing a fresh loaf of bread.

If you’re tired of paying $3 or more for a premium loaf of bread at the grocer, then investing in a good bread machine makes a lot of sense. It will often pay for itself within a couple of years, and in return, you’ll end up with better bread in a house that smells wonderful every time you turn on this kitchen appliance!

What Are the Advantages of a Bread Machine?

The primary advantage that bread machine users receive is an improved level of home nutrition. Although grocery store bread is healthy, many of the cheaper loaves of bread contain high levels of gluten or other allergy-sensitive ingredients that can develop digestive problems over time in some people. Plus, you can’t control how many additives, sugar, and other high-calorie nutrients you ingest. Bread machines can help you bake loaves from whole grains, create gluten-free wonders, or brilliant custom-recipe gourmet loaves that you would never find in a grocery store.

The second advantage of a good bread machine is that it will save you time since you’re not involved in the actual kneading and baking process. Instead of having to roll out your dough, ball it up, wrap it up, and remember to set the time correctly so you can repeat the process two or three more times, the bread machine does it all for you. The best bread machines will let you add in your ingredients, lock the baking container in place, and let you enjoy your day.

The final advantage that you’ll receive is an increased variety of the kinds of bread you eat. Imagine being able to enjoy a ham sandwich with jalapeno cheddar bread or waking up in the morning to the smells of a fresh cinnamon raisin loaf. With remote timers, dozens of different pre-programs, and the ability to use your recipes on the machine, you can eliminate all the preservatives from your diet, while adding creativity and pleasing your senses with new loaves of bread each time.

How To Find the Best Bread Machine?

The best bread machines have a few things in common that you’ll want to look for as you browse through our fact-based reviews. Here are some easy ways to differentiate the best ones from the ok ones.

Versatility

The vast majority of bread machines have a couple of pre-programed settings for making different kinds of bread. Think about your preferences and needs. Why are you buying the bread machine? Do you only want to enjoy classic homemade bread, or you want to be able to experiment and try out a lot of different recipes? Depending on your needs, look at the pre-programs and the custom settings each device offers. More versatility is usually associated with a higher price, but you can surely find something that best fits your goals.

Automatic Dispensers

If you’re willing to invest a little more into the best bread machine, then automatic dispensers are one of the most important features that separate higher-end devices and cheaper models. Automatic dispensers are individual chambers or parts where you add nuts, fruits, or other ingredients that are usually mixed later in the process. Having this feature means that you need to add all of the ingredients in the beginning, and the device will automatically release the fruits and nuts when the time is right. Some models that don’t have automatic dispensers may beep, indicating that it’s time for you to add the rest of the ingredients.

Baking Time

Baking bread is a time-consuming job, which is why bread machines are trying to come up with rapid setting functionalities that will bake a loaf of bread in the shortest time possible. However, make sure you’re realistic – don’t sacrifice quality for faster results. The sweet spot is finding a balance, so compare a lot of different models. The bread machines of today have a timer and delay function to compensate for the long working hours.

Before You Go

Hopefully, you’ve learned a lot about bread machines through our practical buying guide, which you can use whenever you’re shopping for bread machines.

However, if you already know what you’re looking for, then we’re confident the best bread machine for you is among our recommendations. Make sure to follow the links to find out current prices, detailed product descriptions, and customer reviews for each product.

You can also check out our blog because we have many more product reviews and product guides for your kitchen, as well as recipes that you can use to test your new bread maker.

Want to see our favorite bread makers one more time before you go? Here they are!

Best Overall

Best Quality

Best on a Budget

Most Versatile

Features: 700 watts power, double kneading blades, dual heaters, 15 pre-programmed settings.

Features: 700 watts power, double kneading blades, ten pre-programmed settings, three crust shades.

Features: 650 watts power, 12 bread settings, three crust settings, 13-hour programmable baking timer.

Features: 830 watts power, collapsible kneading paddle, 13 automatic settings, three crust colors, four loaf sizes, 46 step by step recipes.

Best Overall

Features: 700 watts power, double kneading blades, dual heaters, 15 pre-programmed settings.

Best Quality

Features: 700 watts power, double kneading blades, ten pre-programmed settings, three crust shades.

Best on a Budget

Features: 650 watts power, 12 bread settings, three crust settings, 13-hour programmable baking timer.

Most Versatile

Features: 830 watts power, collapsible kneading paddle, 13 automatic settings, three crust colors, four loaf sizes, 46 step by step recipes.

The Best Food Vacuum Sealer Reviews

Appliances Reviewed is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Food vacuum sealers are one of the most efficient ways of preventing food waste. By owning a vacuum sealer, you can quickly freeze liquids, solids, or dry goods, without the risk of bacterial contamination or the disappointment of freezer burn.

While food vacuum systems have existed since the 1940s, today’s versions are greatly improved to offer even more reliability and practicality. The best food vacuum sealers are small, fast, and powerful, but they do vary when it comes to price, power type, and additional functionalities. So, how do you choose the best food vacuum sealer for your needs?

We scoured the market and hand-picked the best food vacuum sealers offered today. Whether you’re looking for the highest quality, the best bargain, large sealer for commercial use, or you simply want a well-rounded device that can fit on most kitchen counters, our detailed and honest reviews will help you make the right decision.

We also wrote a comprehensive buying guide at the end of the article, where we share the features you should take into consideration when shopping for a food vacuum sealer.

Best Overall

Best Quality

Best on a Budget

Best for Commercial Use

FoodSaver 4800 Series Vacuum Sealer Machine, 2-in-1 Automatic Vacuum Sealing System with Handheld Vacuum Sealer plus Starter Kit, v4840

Weston Brands Vacuum Sealer Machine for Food Preservation & Sous Vide, Extra-Wide Bar, Sealing Bags up to 16", 935 Watts, Commercial Grade Pro 2300 Stainless Steel

Features: 16 inches max bag size, wet and dry mode, 5-year limited warranty.

Features: double piston pump seal bar, no downtime, dry and moist mode, 1-year limited warranty.

Features: 2 AA batteries - cordless, 1-year limited warranty.

Features: no downtime, wet and dry mode, 1-year limited warranty.

Best Overall

Features: 16 inches max bag size, wet and dry mode, 5-year limited warranty.

Best Quality

Features: double piston pump seal bar, no downtime, dry and moist mode, 1-year limited warranty.

Best on a Budget

Features: 2 AA batteries - cordless, 1-year limited warranty.

Best for Commercial Use

Features: no downtime, wet and dry mode, 1-year limited warranty.

Best Overall: FoodSaver 4840 2-in-1 Vacuum Sealer

Due to many reasons, our best overall choice is the FoodSaver 4840 2-in-1 vacuum sealer, mostly because it’s fully automated, comes with advanced functionalities, and it’s still reasonably priced. It’s the perfect choice for most people, as both amateurs and experienced sealers will be pleased with its performance.

Pros:

When we say that the device is fully automated we mean that you don’t even have to press a button. The FoodSaver 4840 features an exclusive technology with a sensor that detects when a bag is placed on the track and starts its job immediately. This is beneficial and convenient for most people, but especially beginners and those who have never owned a vacuum sealer before.

The unit is titled “FoodSaver 4840 2-in-1” because it comes with a handheld retractable sealer, so you have two sealing devices. You can use the handheld sealer on zip-loc bags, bags that are too big for the unit, containers, and canisters.

The added handheld, portable sealer along with some of its advanced functionalities make the FoodSaver 4840 incredibly versatile and suitable for any vacuum sealing task. The unit has an “only seal” mode, which means it can seal bags without sucking out the air. It also features a “rapid marinated mode” and a heat seal – the most reliable sealing method.

When you buy the FoodSaver 4840, you’ll get a starter pack which includes an 11″x10′ vacuum seal roll, three 1-quart vacuum seal bags, two 1-gallon vacuum seal bags, three 1-quart vacuum zipper bags, and two 1-gallon zipper bags.

Cons:

The FoodSaver 4840 doesn’t work well with other brands’ bags, which means you’ll have to buy specialized FoodSaver bags to ensure your vacuum sealing is reliable and tight. The handheld sealer is partially a compensation for this, as it works on different bags. However, when using the main sealer, you’ll need to use bags from FoodSaver.

Additionally, the unit isn’t flexible, which means you won’t have much control over the vacuuming process. For beginners, families, or any kind of light-duty work, this might not be a problem, but professionals might feel limited.

Just like many other external suction vacuum sealers, the unit doesn’t run continuously.

The Verdict:

We believe the compact and incredibly user-friendly FoodSaver 4840 is the best choice for most people as it’s a very high-quality device that’s intuitive, offers advanced functionalities, and has a fair price. While it may not meet the needs of professionals, it’s a great buy for light-duty work.

Sale

Best Quality: Weston Pro-2300 Commercial Vacuum Sealer

The Weston Pro-2300 is one of the most powerful external suction vacuum sealers that comes seriously close to the power of chamber-style vacuum sealers. It’s a great buy for professionals and people who are sealing food regularly.

Pros:

The Weston Pro-2300 is very powerful and durable. The unit has 935 watts of motor power and a 28hg suction level. Just as a comparison, the chamber-style VacMaster VP210 model has a 29hg suction level. This is the reason why many business owners use Weston Pro-2300 for commercial purposes – packaging vegetables, nuts, meat, and so on.

The performance of the unit regarding liquids and soft foods is somewhere between typical external suction models and chamber-type models. It features a manual pressure mode that allows you to slowly and carefully seal soft and moist foods.

The unit is versatile and can seal a variety of bags as it’s compatible with bags from other brands. Plus, it has an extra-long, 15 inches (38 centimeters) seal bar, which means you can vacuum seal bags of up to 15 inches wide.

The Weston Pro-2300 has a fan-cooled motor that’s specifically designed for continuous use. There’s no downtime, so you can seal bag after bag, in a matter of minutes.

Cons:

Although the brand advertises this product as commercial-grade, some customers have noted that the vacuuming time is a little longer than other commercial-grade or chamber-style sealers, which means it can slow down the work process of some types of businesses. Nevertheless, it’s perfect for large quantities of food at home or in small restaurants.

Some people might find it annoying that there’s no way to activate the sealer without activating the vacuum first. This doesn’t affect its performance, but it can be annoying if you only want to make bags from a roll.

The Verdict:

The Weston Pro-2300 is a true workhorse machine that’s meant to handle heavy-duty work. It’s expensive for an external suction vacuum sealer, but considering how many obstacles, typical for external sealers, it overcomes, we can say that the price is justified. The Weston Pro-2300 is a good buy for professionals, small restaurants, or people who have a small kitchen, but still want the power of a chamber-style machine.

Best on a Budget: FoodSaver FSFRSH0051 Vacuum Sealer

When you’re not looking to invest some serious money because you want a compact and easy-to-use food vacuum sealer, you should take a look at the FoodSaver FSFRSH0051. It’s a good quality vacuum sealer, efficient, and portable, perfect for people who use sealers occasionally and want something they can fit in a drawer.

Pros:

The FoodSaver FSFRSH0051 is very easy-to-use, which means that if you’re a complete newbie, you’ll love how intuitive and no-fuss the whole process is. Take it in your hands, press the “on” button and the device starts sucking air.

The size of the FoodSaver FSFRSH0051 is only 3.94 x 3.07 x 8.86 inches, while it weighs only 13.6 ounces. You can easily store in any kitchen drawer.

The size and weight of the device, along with the fact that it’s cordless and operates on batteries, means you can take it with you anywhere you go. This is especially beneficial for hunters and fishermen who like to preserve their food right on the spot, instead of waiting to come home.

The device works on almost any sealing bag, which means the size of the bag is not a problem! Plus, when you buy the product, you’ll also get two reusable 1-quart vacuum zipper bags.

Cons:

The unit is made of plastic and it might not be as durable as our pricier recommendations. Considering the price this is okay, but it is something you should have in mind.

Also, the device is not meant for continuous use, nor for heavy-duty work. If you are someone who seals large quantities of food on a daily basis, you might feel limited.

The Verdict:

The FoodSaver FSFRSH0051 is a great-quality vacuum sealer, meant for light-duty work. The device is very easy-to-use, compact, and portable, which makes it the perfect choice for people who prepare raw food outdoors or simply want something convenient.

Best For Commercial Use: VacMaster VP210 Chamber Vacuum Sealer

As our best commercial food vacuum cleaner, we chose the Perfect for VacMaster VP210 chamber-type sealer, as it’s great for continuous, heavy-duty work. This unit can quickly vacuum all types of foods, work with different types of bags, and you have full control over the process.

Pros:

If you’re looking for a professional and extremely durable vacuum sealer, the VacMaster VP210 won’t disappoint you. The device is made of high-grade stainless steel and can easily obtain a 27-29hg level of vacuum, where most units get to 25hg.

The VacMaster VP210 is fully flexible, as it allows you to control the vacuum time (how much oxygen you want to remove), sealing time, and cooling time – something which professionals will truly appreciate.

At the same time, the VacMaster VP210 is always ready to work, without any downtime. The unit works continuously, which means you won’t have to wait before vacuum sealing again. This feature makes the device especially beneficial for commercial use.

The unit shines where external suction models fail – it’s wonderful for quickly sealing liquids like soups, marinades, and stews. While external suction devices require the liquid to be frozen before sealing it, the VacMaster VP210 only requires you to place the liquid inside the chamber and push a button.

On top of all else, it’s compatible with bags from different brands, which means you won’t have to go out of your way to buy specialized bags for the machine.

Cons:

Unfortunately, the device doesn’t have an external port, which means you’ll have to add machine oil to the pump manually. This can be a dealbreaker for people who want something simpler or use a vacuum sealer only occasionally.

The Verdict:

The VacMaster VP210 is the best choice for professionals, hunters, sportsmen, business owners, and large families where vacuuming food is a daily sight. The unit is durable, flexible, convenient, and it can run continuously.

Conclusion:

The best vacuum sealer is the FoodSaver 4840 2-in-1 as it’s a well-built device for a great price. The unit is fully automated, intuitive, extremely versatile, and comes with a starter kit package, in which you’ll get a variety of sealing bags. Maybe one of the most impressive features is the added handheld sealer, which is portable and can be used on any zip-lock bag. It’s a great choice for most people.

Professionals and experienced sealers, however, might be better off with our highest-quality pick, the Weston Pro-2300. It’s an extremely powerful and durable device that surpasses all expectations you would have of an external suction type of vacuum sealer. The suction power is comparable with the VacMaster VP210, while the functionalities are designed to solve regular problems external vacuum sealers have, such as sealing soft and moist foods.

On the other hand, light-work users and people who really want something simple, but efficient, will be most pleased with our budget pick, the FoodSaver FSFRSH0051. This vacuum sealer might not offer advanced functionalities like our other recommendations, but it can get the job done. Plus, it can fit perfectly in any kitchen drawer and it’s a great choice for people who never owned a vacuum sealer before.

Finally, VacMaster VP210 is the best choice if you intend to use the sealer commercially. It has everything you need to make the whole process quick, convenient, and smooth. The construction of the unit is quite sturdy, which makes the VacMaster VP210 very durable and powerful. Additionally, the device will give you full control over the three stages, so you can adjust the time according to your needs. But, most importantly, it can run continuously, so you can finish the job in no time.

Everything You Need To Know About Food Vacuum Sealers

Spoiling food, bacteria, and fungi infestations have been an issue throughout the history of time, which is the reason why, today, we have advanced food vacuum sealing systems meant to preserve the freshness of food and extend shelf-life significantly. There are many ways to preserve food, but using vacuum sealers is definitely one of the easiest ways that don’t change the texture or taste of fresh foods.

Types of Vacuum Sealing Systems

There are two basic types of vacuum sealing systems – external suction and chamber vacuum sealers.

External suction vacuum sealers work in a way that a bag is attached to the vacuum-sealing machine externally. The machine will remove the air and seal the bag, which is all done outside the machine. A heat sealer is often used to seal the pack. External vacuum sealers are smaller, more convenient, and mostly meant for home-use.

Chamber vacuum sealers, on the other hand, use pouches and full mesh vacuum sealer bags. The bags are placed inside the chamber (with food inside) while the sealer evacuates the air from the chamber leaving air pressure equal after which it seals the bag. The single-chamber food vacuum devices are the most popular ones and are usually small, portable, and convenient to use, as opposed to higher-end models which can be a lot bulkier.

There are double-chamber devices, too. They work in the same manner as the single-chamber food vacuum sealers, only after sealing the bag, the chamber is refilled with air, which in turn squeezes any remaining air out of the bag. Double-chamber devices are typically used in factories by medium to large businesses.

How Do Vacuum Sealers Work?

Just like the name implies, vacuum sealing is the process of vacuuming i.e removing air from a bag and sealing it. While the food can be put into various containers, plastic bags are the most common form for general household use. Some vacuum sealers even come with plastic rolls from which they create the plastic bag. Basically, all you need to do is place the food inside the bag, position it on the vacuum sealer’s mark (external sealers) or place the sealer above the small opening (hand-held sealers), and press the on button. The whole process is very straightforward and you’ll have a sealed bag in a matter of seconds.

After this, you need to store the food – typically in a freezer. Freezing is the preferred method of preserving for most people. Cured meats, coffee, fresh fruits, vegetables, and leftovers are among the foods that can be frozen. However, you can also keep sealed food in the regular fridge.

The science behind vacuuming food is in the oxygen, or better yet, the lack thereof. Oxygen spoils food in three ways – oxidation, enzymatic oxidation, and encouraging the growth of molds, bacteria, and some yeasts. Removing as much air as possible will ensure that your food stays fresh and uncontaminated for a long period of time. However, be careful, oxygen is just one factor. Heat and water can also spoil food, which is the reason why, after vacuuming, food is being frozen or kept in the fridge. This prevents moisture from surrounding the food item.

Types of Foods You Can Vacuum Seal

The question that surely popped in your mind at least once by now is: “Can I vacuum seal any type of food?” The answer is yes, but there are several exceptions.

If you’re a newbie or you’ve never owned a food vacuum sealer before, you should invest some time researching all the food groups you’re interested in vacuum sealing. This is a great way to learn how to properly prep the foods and avoid making mistakes that can result in spoiled food.

In general, food vacuum sealers work well for all types of food – solids, liquids, moist, or dry ingredients. For example, you can vacuum seal chunks of meat and fish. Most fruits and vegetables are safe to vacuum as well. However, you should not vacuum seal cruciferous veggies like broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, kale, etc.

You should also avoid vacuum sealing:

Soft cheeses – while hard cheeses are okay, soft cheeses mold faster when vacuum sealed.
Bananas.
Mushrooms.
Whole apples – you can seal slices of apples, but not whole apples. Also, make sure you spatter some lemon juice over the apple slices to prevent them from browning.
Raw onions and garlic – they release natural gasses that can affect the integrity of the vacuum seal.
Warm veggies – let the cooked veggies come to room temperature before vacuum sealing them.

There are two reasons for this. First, some types of foods can actually spoil quicker when vacuum sealed, and second, some foods can damage the integrity of the vacuum seal or the device. For example, liquids can be vacuum sealed directly in a chamber vacuum sealer, while external suction devices will suck in the liquid which will destroy the motor.

If you buy an external suction type of vacuum sealer, make sure to first freeze the liquid and then seal it.

How To Find the Best Food Vacuum Sealer?

The best food vacuum sealer does the job of removing oxygen from the packaging and allows for a sealed food storage method very reliably. It’s important to choose sealers that are made of quality parts and are dependable to use without fail.

Some basic units that cost less perform great without offering any additional functionalities, while others offer more control over the process which may or may not be worth the extra money. Comparing the price, reliability, and other features will help you find the right device for your needs. The points explained below are good to ponder on when it comes to narrowing down your choices.

Usage

The first thing you should consider is how you’ll use the food vacuum sealer and for what purpose. Is it exclusively for home-use? Are you a hunter who regularly needs to preserve large quantities of meat? Do you own a small business or a restaurant where working with food in bulk is a necessity and leftovers are an everyday sight? Different uses are best met with different types of food vacuum sealers. For example, most higher-end external suction vacuum sealers will meet the needs of large families, but they may fall short for business owners, where chamber vacuum sealers shine.

Portability And Storage

Consider the dimensions and weight of vacuum sealers before spending your money. If you want a vacuum sealer for home use, make sure you get one that’s going to fit in your kitchen and one that’s easy to store once you’re done sealing. On the other hand, restaurants and small business owners may want a bulkier, semi-permanent sealer as they seal large quantities of food on a daily basis.

Additional Features And Control

When buying a food vacuum sealer, look for added functionalities, and more control over the sealing process. Some models allow you to control how much air you want to remove from the bag, while others have an additional “seal only” functionality. Also, some models come with a retractable handheld sealer and can double as a jar sealer or bottle stopper.

Before You Go

Preserving food can save you a lot of money and cut food waste significantly. Food vacuum sealers are beneficial to everyone – students, families, sportsmen, hunters, and commercial businesses. Therefore, we hope that you were able to find the best food vacuum sealer for your needs among our recommendations. If you’re still hesitant, make sure to follow the links where you can check out specific prices, product details, and customer reviews.

You can also check out our blog because we have many more product reviews and product guides essential for any kitchen. Plus, you’ll find delicious recipes that will enrich your cooking skills.

Want to see our favorite vacuum sealers one more time before you go? Here they are!

Best Overall

Best Quality

Best on a Budget

Best for Commercial Use

Features: 16 inches max bag size, wet and dry mode, 5-year limited warranty.

Features: double piston pump seal bar, no downtime, dry and moist mode, 1-year limited warranty.

Features: 2 AA batteries - cordless, 1-year limited warranty.

Features: no downtime, wet and dry mode, 1-year limited warranty.

Best Overall

Features: 16 inches max bag size, wet and dry mode, 5-year limited warranty.

Best Quality

Features: double piston pump seal bar, no downtime, dry and moist mode, 1-year limited warranty.

Best on a Budget

Features: 2 AA batteries - cordless, 1-year limited warranty.

Best for Commercial Use

Features: no downtime, wet and dry mode, 1-year limited warranty.

Reviews of The 5 Best Immersion Blenders

April 17, 2024 Kristin Byrne Popular Buying Guides, Ultimate Guides

Appliances Reviewed is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

An immersion blender is one of the most useful appliances that can make your life much easier and healthier. And if you enjoy making your own refreshing drinks, like smoothies or milkshakes, having a good immersion blender is crucial. This simple, yet effective device lets you quickly blend your favorite fruits or vegetables and make delicious drinks right in your serving bowl.

You can see how popular the immersion blender is if you just check the market. With so many different options available, it’s quite common to get completely overwhelmed. So, how do you find the best immersion blender?

To help you in your search, we reviewed the five best immersion blenders available on the market today. You can read about the products’ features, advantages, disadvantages, and our honest opinion on how these products can serve you. We also created a detailed buying guide where we share the most important factors you need to keep in mind when shopping for an immersion blender.

Best Overall

Best Quality

Best on a Budget

Most Versatile

Best Cordless

KitchenAid Pro Line 5 Speed Hand Blender, Onyx Black

Cuisinart CSB-75BC Smart Stick 200 Watt 2 Speed Hand Blender, Brushed Chrome

KOIOS 800-Watt/ 12-Speed Immersion Hand Blender(Titanium Reinforced), Turbo for Finer Results, 4-in-1 Set Includes BPA-Free Food Chopper / Egg Beater / Beaker, Ergonomic Grip, Detachable

Cuisinart CSB-300 Rechargeable Hand Blender with Electric Knife, One Size, DAA

Features: 280 watts power, stainless steel blade, 15-speed options, 8" immersion depth, 6’ long cord, 1-year warranty.

Features: 12V rechargeable battery, stainless steel blade, 5-speed options, 8" and 13" immersion depth.

Features: 200 watts power, stainless steel blade, 2-speed options, 3-year warranty.

Features: 800 watts power, titanium-reinforced blade, 12-speed options + turbo, 2-year warranty.

Features: 7.4 Amp battery, stainless steel blade, 5-speed options, 8 ¾ ” immersion depth, 3-year warranty.

Best Overall

Features: 280 watts power, stainless steel blade, 15-speed options, 8" immersion depth, 6’ long cord, 1-year warranty.

Best Quality

Features: 12V rechargeable battery, stainless steel blade, 5-speed options, 8" and 13" immersion depth.

Best on a Budget

Features: 200 watts power, stainless steel blade, 2-speed options, 3-year warranty.

Most Versatile

Features: 800 watts power, titanium-reinforced blade, 12-speed options + turbo, 2-year warranty.

Best Cordless

Features: 7.4 Amp battery, stainless steel blade, 5-speed options, 8 ¾ ” immersion depth, 3-year warranty.

Best Overall: Breville BSB510XL Control Grip Immersion Blender

Powerful enough to crush ice cubes and ball-shaped to prevent splashing, the Breville BSB510XL will fit perfectly in any kitchen. The unit is our best overall pick as we believe that it offers amazing quality for a fair price, plus it has a beautiful design for a comfortable blending experience.

Pros:

The Breville BSB510XL comes with 280 watts of power which gives the device enough strength to handle blending, chopping, mixing, and emulsifying pretty much anything you throw at it. The unit can also crush ice cubes with ease – a task where a lot of immersion blenders, including some higher-end models, fail.

Its design is also practical – the Breville has a bell-shaped head, specially designed to prevent splashing. This means you can blend in any bowl without worrying that you might make a mess.

Another practical design feature is its ergonomic pistol-like control grip that’s very comfortable and convenient. Your hand won’t feel tired even after using the blender for an extended time. Plus, all the operations are positioned around the fingers, so you can expect an effortless blending experience.

If you decide to purchase the Breville BSB510XL, you’ll also get a chopping bowl, a large measurement jug, and a whisk. It’s like having a mini electric hand-mixer, only a lot easier to operate and maintain.

Cons:

The whisk attachment might be weaker than expected. Therefore, if the accessories are a major factor in your buying decision, consider buying an immersion blender that’s designed to offer more versatility, like our KOIOS oxasmart recommendation.

Additionally, some users have complained that detaching the device for cleaning can be very hard.

The Verdict:

Whether you’re a professional or an amateur cooking enthusiast who wants to experiment with healthy meals, the Breville BSB510XL will easily handle all of your recipes. It may not be the highest quality option or the most versatile device, but this unit is definitely the most well-rounded immersion blender on the market today.

Best Quality: KitchenAid Pro Line 5-Speed Immersion Blender

When talking about the highest-quality products, the KitchenAid Pro Line 5-speed immersion blender enters the conversation. It’s a very beautifully built device that’s durable, practical, and versatile. Professionals as well as blending enthusiasts will be pleased with the advanced functionalities this unit has to offer.

Pros:

One of the features that really makes the KitchenAid Pro Line immersion blender stand out are the unique interchangeable bell blade assemblies. The unit comes with three different blade assemblies and you can change between them with just one twist. The S-blade assembly is used for general pureeing. The multi-purpose blade assembly is used for chopping ice, frozen fruits or veggies, and meats. Finally, the frother and beater blade assembly is for whipping coffee, milkshakes, and other drinks.

On top of that, you’ll get the device with a strong whisk attachment, chopper attachment, 1L pitcher, bell blade covers, battery, charger, and a storage case.

The unit is incredibly practical as it’s cordless and you can easily move it or take it with you wherever you feel like it. The KitchenAid Pro-Line has a 12V lithium-ion battery that’s rechargeable.

The KitchenAid Pro Line fits in any bowl or pot, as it comes with 8” and 13″ long blending arms. The depth of your pot is no problem for this device.

Another thing you’d like to know is that the device is very quiet even when it’s running at the highest speed (out of five speed options).

Cons:

The device is not completely dishwasher safe, which means that some parts must be washed by hand. It’s definitely not a deal-breaker disadvantage, but it does affect its convenience, so it’s good to know beforehand.

Also, some of the parts are made of plastic, which disappointed some customers considering how pricey the device is.

Another consideration you should keep in mind is the size of the KitchenAid Pro Line. While the 13” blending arm is definitely an advantage for some people, others might find it too large to manage. Before buying, remember that this device is quite big.

The Verdict:

If money is not an issue, the KitchenAid Pro Line is definitely one of the best immersion blenders. It’s very durable, practical, and versatile. It comes with two-sized blending arms and three different blade assemblies, so you can’t question its performance on even the toughest tasks.

Best on a Budget: Cuisinart CSB-75BC Smart Stick

The Cuisinart CSB-75BC Smart Stick is an immersion blender that’s very easy to underestimate considering its low price, but the unit offers incredible performance. It’s a small, powerful, and very practical device, which makes it a perfect choice for anyone that appreciates simplicity.

Pros:

The Cuisinart CSB-75BC Smart Stick comes with 200 watts of power, which is quite decent for an immersion blender in this price range. As you’ll see in our buying guide at the end of the article, immersion blenders above 180 watts are considered powerful enough to handle most tasks. You can make smoothies, cream soups, coffees, milkshakes, and sauces, without a problem, although it’s not suitable for leafy greens, ice, or frozen fruits and veggies.

The unit has a very simplistic design and it’s also very easy-to-use and to store. It has one lock/unlock button at the top of its head, and two high and low-speed buttons on the front.

Cleaning and maintaining the Cuisinart CSB-75BC Smart Stick is almost effortless as the device is dishwasher-safe.

However, one of the most impressive features is the 3-year warranty that accompanies the device. Considering its price, this immersion blender is a steal.

Cons:

Unlike our other recommendations, the Cuisinart CSB-75BC Smart Stick comes without any accessories, which for some people might be a deal-breaker.

Another common concern is the position of the “safety” button, which for some customers is very uncomfortable.

The Verdict:

If you only want to make delicious smoothies or nice creamy soups, the Cuisinart CSB-75BC Smart Stick would be the first and most simple choice. The unit is small and basic, but it offers outstanding performance. The unit is perfect for offices, dormitories, or any other small kitchen.

Most Versatile: KOIOS oxasmart Immersion Blender

When you want an immersion blender that can also whisk, whip, chop, or mince, the KOIOS oxasmart will surpass every expectation. Offering 12 speeds and an array of attachments, this unit quickly turns into one of the most useful kitchen appliances you’ve ever owned. It’s the perfect choice for people who prefer one device for multiple purposes.

Pros:

You would think that versatility is the number one advantage of the KOIOS oxasmart, but we wanted to start with the incredible 800-watt motor power. It’s more than all of our other recommendations and most immersion blenders out there. We wouldn’t compare with countertop blenders, but the KOIOS oxasmart comes close. It can blend, chop, mince, and whip any ingredient you put under the blender.

When it comes to its versatility, the device offers 12 speeds and an additional TURBO option. You can also choose between continuous or pulsing speed control for the ultimate precision.

On top of that, you’ll get a whisk attachment, a 500 ml food chopper, a 600 ml mixing beaker, blending shaft, and a user manual, so you’re all set to start blending right away even if you’re a beginner.

The KOIOS oxasmart is also very strong and durable. The unit is made of 304 stainless steel, while the blades are gold and titanium reinforced for anti-adhesion and stronger corrosion resistance.

Other advantages KOIOS offers are the amazing customer service and exchange and return policies. There’s a live chat assistant on their site, where you can ask about any concern you may have regarding the device. Plus, the brand offers free exchanges and returns for 24 months .

Cons:

Aside from not being dishwasher safe, meaning you have to wash the device by hand, we couldn’t find any major concern.

The Verdict:

The KOIOS oxasmart is the most versatile immersion blender and a wonderful choice for cooking enthusiasts who want to experiment with recipes in the kitchen. It’s so handy and practical, yet still incredibly powerful and strong, that it’s hard to imagine you’ll ever need another blender.

Best Cordless: Cuisinart CSB-300 Immersion Blender

Wouldn’t it be nice to have an immersion blender you can take with you when going camping, in your office, or simply when you cook outdoors? If yes, you’ll love the Cuisinart CSB-300 immersion blender. The unit comes with a powerful, rechargeable battery, decent versatility, and a beautiful storage case.

Pros:

The Cuisinart CSB-300 is a cordless immersion blender that comes with a 7.4 Amp lithium-ion battery, which can hold up to 20 minutes of run-time per charge. Charging is very quick and easy, so by the time you decide to cook something else, Cuisinart CSB-300 would be ready to go.

The device offers 5-speed options, plus it comes with a 3-cup chopper, 4-cup measuring cup, chef’s whisk, and an electric knife attachment for effortlessly carving a roast or slicing a loaf of bread. All of these attachments are nicely stored in a pouch bag.

Even though it’s cordless, the unit is very strong and powerful. It’s made of high-quality stainless steel blades, which won’t rust nor break with heavy-duty work.

Cons:

One possible downside of this unit is the location of the control buttons and the fact that you need to push two buttons at the same time in order to start the unit. While this is designed to make the device safer, some customers find it uncomfortable and annoying.

Additionally, the device is pretty big, so although it may be suitable for outdoor cooking, people with smaller kitchens might not be happy with the size of this device.

The Verdict:

Sportsmen, adventurous souls, and outdoorsy people will be most pleased with the Cuisinart CSB-300. It’s a very powerful, strong, and versatile immersion blender that can be easily transported anywhere you like. It’s also great as an office blender.

Conclusion:

The Breville BSB510XL is our best choice overall as it comes with good quality, high-power, beautiful design, and a fair price. The unit offers everything that most people need in an immersion blender. You can make delicious cream soups, smoothies, sauces, meatloaves, and even crush ice cubes.

The highest quality title goes to the KitchenAid Pro Line immersion blender, as it’s definitely one very powerful, versatile, and practical device with an incredible performance. Whether you like to blend, chop, crush ice or frozen fruits, whip cream, or coffee, the 5-speed KitchenAid Pro Line has your back. Cordless and easy-to-use, this higher-end unit will make your life a lot easier.

However, when you’re on a budget, the smart choice would be the Cuisinart CSB-75BC Smart Stick. The Cuisinart is a very basic and small appliance that knows how to do its job. It can easily make delicious smoothies, cream soups, coffees, milkshakes, sauces, etc. However. it’s not suitable for leafy greens, ice, or frozen fruits and veggies.

If versatility is your number one priority, we recommend the KOIOS oxasmart. With 800 watts, the unit is incredibly powerful and can even stand up to the traditional countertop blenders. It’s also incredibly strong with blades reinforced with gold and titanium. If you’re someone who loves to experiment, try new recipes, and make healthy dishes, this immersion blender would be a good choice.

Finally, what about those who value practicality and portability above all else? In this case, we recommend the cordless Cuisinart CSB-300 model, which comes with a powerful battery that can hold up for 20 minutes of running time. It’s a high-quality device with 5-speeds, handy accessories, and even an electric knife attachment for superior versatility in your cooking activities.

Everything You Need To Know About Immersion Blenders

Immersion blenders are very practical, simple, and convenient devices, specifically designed to quickly and efficiently puree fresh fruits and vegetables.

How Does An Immersion Blender Works?

An immersion blender is very similar yet a little different than a hand mixer as you don’t have to move it around to blend the mixture. Instead of moving the appliance around, try leaving the blender in one place to let the drink or dish slowly turn into puree.

Because of the way it’s used, making a smoothie with an immersion blender is such a convenience. Instead of having to drag out your traditional blender and create a cleaning mess, you can just throw in your fresh ingredients and blend them right in your drinking glass. When you’re finished, you then just run the immersion blender in the sink with some detergent, dry it, and put it away. The same is true with milkshakes and other mixed drinks.

Another popular use of the immersion blender is to create a stunning cream soup. You can mix the ingredients in the bowl after the cooking process is complete or you can just mix the soup right in the pot. Cream soups, blended vegetable purees as soup, and even thick bisques can all be created naturally, without thickening agents, only with the help of this appliance.

What Can You Make With An Immersion Blender?

Depending on the model, there are a number of additional dishes you can make with an immersion blender:

Meat grinding

With the right attachment, the immersion blender can be converted into a meat grinder that will help you make fresh ground meat dishes, such as meatballs, meatloaf, or sausage. Just DO NOT try to grind without the special attachment as the motors on some of the entry-level models can burn out.

Chopping

Immersion blenders of all types can be used to chop fruits and vegetables like a food processor. Make sure to use brief surges to chop your fruits and veggies for salsas, pico de gallo, or sauces, because you can easily go from chopping to pureeing.

Whipping

Whether you have a whisking attachment for your immersion blender or you just have a basic entry-level model, you can substitute this appliance for all of your whipping tasks. That makes whipped cream or whipped egg whites a simple chore, and you can make your own mayonnaise or thick hummus quickly as well.

Cheesecake

One of our favorite uses of an immersion blender, however, is in the creation of cheesecake. Instead of letting your cream cheese soften so that you can manually mix the cheese to the right consistency, an immersion blender will quickly make this task happen.

Mashed Potatoes

Another favorite is to use the immersion blender to create smooth, creamy mashed potatoes. Once you’ve softened the potatoes, add some thick cream, a little melted butter, some parsley, a dash of pink Himalayan salt, and a little oregano to make flavorful mash that your family will rave about! It’s also a handy pesto-making appliance, especially because fresh basil tends to wrap around the blades of a traditional blender.

So, basically, you can make almost anything you want. For example, applesauce can be quickly made from fresh apples. You can create your own dips, like a fresh bean dip for a 7-layer salsa dish. You can even quickly turn hard ice cream into delicious soft serve in just a few seconds.

One common concern regarding the use of the best immersion blenders is splatter. Many of these appliances don’t have any blending shields to them, so you can end up churning the liquid or puree from within and this pressure combined with the speed of the blending blades can quickly create a mess. Some of our recommendations have specific features that prevent splashing, which is incredibly beneficial especially if you don’t want to go out of your way to blend in specialized containers.

Once you start using an immersion blender, you’ll quickly see how beneficial this one appliance can be. Plus, when you consider how affordable the immersion blender is, you’ll forget about countertop blenders that are very impractical for little everyday things.

What Are the Advantages of Immersion Blenders?

The primary advantage that you receive with the immersion blender is portability. You can fasten this appliance to a wall if you wish, store it in a drawer or on a shelf, and even pack it along with you to take to work. It’s a lightweight kitchen appliance, but it gives you a strong performance that requires virtually no effort at all.

The second advantage is convenience. Immersion blenders can also be placed in any liquid so you can work as you cook. If you’re making a soup, you won’t have to make a mess by pouring your recipe into a full blender to puree it. You can simply finish the soup in the pan with this appliance. This way, it’s easy to make cream soups with consistent texture. Plus, some immersion blenders can double as a mixer or whisk to give you fast whipped cream without going through the trouble of assembling an electric mixer.

The final advantage of immersion blenders they are extremely easy to clean. All you need to do is put a little warm water into a bowl or a sink basin and then turn it on. Wipe it dry with a towel and you’re ready to go! That’s because the typical immersion blender has just three parts: the handle, the wand, and the blade.

How To Find the Best Immersion Blenders?

Although immersion blenders are very simple and straightforward devices, there are still a couple of things you should consider before making a buying decision.

Power

The first consideration that you’ll need to take is in regards to strength. Are you only planning to make smoothies with your blender? Do you want to use it for pureeing tougher vegetables, like cauliflower? Or maybe you need an immersion blender that can double as a vegetable chopper? While 200 watts are typical for most high-quality immersion blenders, remember that the power equals the blender’s ability to turn ingredients into a smooth puree.

Speed

Most immersion blenders have one or two speeds, while higher-end models offer up to five. You’ll probably be able to blend nicely even with one or two-speed immersion blenders. However, having more speeds is quite useful when blending tougher ingredients like nuts.

Cord or Cordless

While the cord doesn’t affect the price much, it certainly affects the power of the immersion blender. Cordless immersion blenders are a great choice for the office or when camping, but if you’re an experienced cook who wants to experiment with healthy foods, cordless immersion blenders might be too weak. On the other hand, you won’t find a power outlet when camping, so an immersion blender with a cord will be useless. Take into consideration your needs and uses before deciding what type of immersion blender is the best for you.

Accessories

Immersion blenders can come with a handful of accessories, like mixing cups, whisks, electric-knife attachment, and so much more. However, there’s a chance that cheaper, good quality models will come with just the basics. The more versatility and functionality the device offers, the pricier it will be. Consider your budget alongside your needs and decide on the key functionalities that are crucial for you.

Before You Go

We hope that our reviews helped you find the best immersion blender for your specific needs and preferences. However, if you’re still not sure, follow the link and find more about each specific product. You can learn about the blender’s current price, in-depth specifications, and customer reviews.

Additionally, don’t forget to read our essential buying guide where you’ll learn everything you need to know about immersion blenders before buying one.

Of course, you can also check out our blog because we have many more product reviews and product guides essential for any kitchen. You can even find delicious recipes to test your new immersion blender.

Want to see our favorite immersion blenders one more time before you go? Here they are!

Best Overall

Best Quality

Best on a Budget

Most Versatile

Best Cordless

Features: 280 watts power, stainless steel blade, 15-speed options, 8" immersion depth, 6’ long cord, 1-year warranty.

Features: 12V rechargeable battery, stainless steel blade, 5-speed options, 8" and 13" immersion depth.

Features: 200 watts power, stainless steel blade, 2-speed options, 3-year warranty.

Features: 800 watts power, titanium-reinforced blade, 12-speed options + turbo, 2-year warranty.

Features: 7.4 Amp battery, stainless steel blade, 5-speed options, 8 ¾ ” immersion depth, 3-year warranty.

Best Overall

Features: 280 watts power, stainless steel blade, 15-speed options, 8" immersion depth, 6’ long cord, 1-year warranty.

Best Quality

Features: 12V rechargeable battery, stainless steel blade, 5-speed options, 8" and 13" immersion depth.

Best on a Budget

Features: 200 watts power, stainless steel blade, 2-speed options, 3-year warranty.

Most Versatile

Features: 800 watts power, titanium-reinforced blade, 12-speed options + turbo, 2-year warranty.

Best Cordless

Features: 7.4 Amp battery, stainless steel blade, 5-speed options, 8 ¾ ” immersion depth, 3-year warranty.

The Best Tea Infuser

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When it comes to making a cup of tea, some people grab a tea bag or a spoon of instant powder, which tea lovers will strongly disapprove of. Since tea is meant to be enjoyed, brewing an absolutely awesome cup of tea is something that only a tea infuser will be able to do. If you’re nitpicking, you may also note that not all tea infusers are up to the task. So, how to find the best tea infuser – one that delivers an unforgettable taste?

While there are a number of tea infusers available on the market today, we made sure to hand-pick only the cream of the crop and give you honest reviews about each product.

Keep reading to find out why these four tea infusers earned “the best” spot in our list and how they can match your specific tea brewing needs.

Don’t forget to also check out our essential buying guide at the end of the article, where we share the most important tips you need to know when shopping for the best tea infuser.

The Best Tea Infuser

Best Overall

Best Quality

Best Spoon And Ball

Best For Travel

Genuine Fred MR. TEA Silicone Tea Infuser

Adagio Teas ingenuiTEA Bottom-Dispensing Teapot,clear,16 oz

Contigo West Loop Stainless Steel Vacuum-Insulated Travel Mug with Spill-Proof Lid, Keeps Drinks Hot up to 5 Hours and Cold up to 12 Hours, 16oz Steel/Black

Features: 3.25 x 4.75 x 1.75 inches, single-serving type, BPA-free silicone, dishwasher and microwave safe, a variety of fun designs.

Features: 5.25 x 4 x 6.5 inches, 16 oz serving, tritan BPA-free plastic, 3.5" diameter.

Features: 4.48 x 1.4 x 10,51 inches, single-serving type, stainless steel, twisting feature, dishwasher safe.

Features: 16.0 ounces, BPA free, vacuum insulation (hot up to 5 hours and cold up to 12), 24 colors, auto seal technology.

Best Overall

Features: 3.25 x 4.75 x 1.75 inches, single-serving type, BPA-free silicone, dishwasher and microwave safe, a variety of fun designs.

Best Quality

Features: 5.25 x 4 x 6.5 inches, 16 oz serving, tritan BPA-free plastic, 3.5" diameter.

Best Spoon And Ball

Features: 4.48 x 1.4 x 10,51 inches, single-serving type, stainless steel, twisting feature, dishwasher safe.

Best For Travel

Features: 16.0 ounces, BPA free, vacuum insulation (hot up to 5 hours and cold up to 12), 24 colors, auto seal technology.

Best Overall: Fred & Friends MR. TEA Silicone Tea Infuser

We chose the Fred & Friends MR.TEA silicone tea infuser as our best overall pick, as the product is cute and fun, very easy to use and maintain, and steeps evenly. It’s a good choice for most people because it can definitely deliver an incredibly delicious cup of tea.

Pros:

Fred & Friends is a very reputable and popular brand that creates innovative and fun tea infuser’s designs. You can choose from Mr. Tea, Manatea, sloth, whale, and so much more. It’s practically impossible to be moody or sad drinking tea when a cute sloth is hanging from your mug. Grown-ups enjoy the adorable designs, too, but kids are especially enthusiastic about them. Therefore if you have kids, this is the right tea infuser for you.

Aside from its pleasing appearance, the Fred & Friends MR. TEA infuser grips strongly to the side of a mug and always stays cool in hot water. You will never burn your fingers, nor have problems with the insider falling inside the mug.

It is important to note that the Fred & Friends MR. TEA infuser steeps evenly, so you can enjoy a consistent flavor from the first sip to the very last one.

Finally, the unit is dishwasher and microwave safe. It can’t get any more convenient than that! Once you’re done drinking your tea, simply open the infuser, throw away the used leaves, and place it in the dishwasher. That’s it.

Cons:

When it comes to the concerns, we’ve noticed that sometimes leaves can get stuck inside the infuser. This can be a little annoying, as you’ll have to go out of your way to thoroughly clean the infuser.

Another disadvantage is that the product is not suitable for larger quantities of tea. It’s a single-serving type of infuser, designed to fit in one mug. People who need a larger tea infuser can check out our next recommendation – the Adagio Teas ingenuiTEA teapot.

The Verdict:

Silly design, fair-price, and great taste are just some of the characteristics that made us choose Fred & Friends MR. TEA infuser as our best overall choice. The unit is great for everyone, small or big, and we guarantee it will make your cup of tea even more enjoyable.

Fred & Friends MR. TEA Silicone Tea Infuser

Best Quality: Adagio Teas ingenuiTEA Teapot

Tea masters need something bigger and more serious than the previously discussed single-serving tea infuser, which is were the Adagio Teas ingenuiTEA Teapot truly shines. It’s a lot larger and features a bottom-dispensing mechanism, making tea drinking even more practical. The unit is a high-quality tea infuser meant to handle the needs of a tea party.

Pros:

While most infusers are designed for single-serving, this teapot can hold up to 16 ounces of liquid, which is great news for people that drink a lot of tea. You also have the option to choose the 28-ounce version, which is available on the same purchase link. If your whole family are passionate tea drinkers, then this will come quite handy.

Another handy feature is its bottom-dispencing mechanism, as you only need to place it above your cup in order to fill it.

The Adagio Teas ingenuiTEA teapot is made from strong, BPA-free plastic, which makes the device completely safe.

As a great representative of its type, the teapot is spacious, which allows the leaves to fully extend and release flavor. This not only means that your tea will steep evenly, but the flavor will be richer and more delicious.

Another important consideration is that the unit is very easy to maintain. The lid and the filter come off and you can simply toss them in the dishwasher.

Cons:

If you have oversized mugs with a very wide opening, you might have trouble placing the teapot above your mug. It’s designed to fit an up to 3.5″ opening in diameter, so keep this on your mind.

After a while, some customers have mentioned that the device starts to leak.

The Verdict:

The Adagio Teas ingenuiTEA teapot is a high-quality tea infuser with a modern design for greater convenience. It’s the perfect choice for people that are passionate tea drinkers, large families, or tea part gatherings. If 16 ounces is not enough, you can even get the 28-ounce version, which will ensure you have enough tea for the whole day.

Best Spoon And Ball: OXO BREW Twisting Tea Ball

Going back to basics, we introduce the OXO BREW twisting tea ball type tea infuser. It’s the most widely known and used single-serving tea infuser, which makes most people feel comfortable. The unit is a high-quality, stainless steel version that features a unique twisting mechanism and a long handle for an even more pleasant experience.

Pros:

The OXO Good Grips twisting tea ball infuser is made of strong, high-quality stainless steel, which makes the unit very durable and safe for use.

To stand out from the competition, the OXO BREW model features a twisting mechanism that is used to lock the ball. This makes the filling very easy and it leaves space for the leaves once the ball is closed – you can’t overfill it.

The product is very simple and easy to use, however, that didn’t stop the designers to think about every little detail. The OXO BREW has a very long handle that works for all types of mugs and glasses. Regardless of the height, you’ll be able to comfortably stir your tea. Plus, you have a plastic non-slip cover on top of the handle that allows for a better grip and stays cool even when more than half of the infuser is in hot water.

Just like the rest of the recommendations, the OXO model is dishwasher safe.

Cons:

On the downside, we should mention that the device can only be used for a single-serving cup and the ball is small, which is typical of tea ball type tea infusers.

The Verdict:

For people that enjoy the classics, the OXO BREW twisting tea ball tea infuser is a great pick. It looks and feels like a spoon, that releases flavor and makes delicious tea. Steeping is even, cleaning is effortless, and filling is easier than ever.

Best For Travel: Contigo 2034154 Stainless Steel Travel Mug

Contigo 2034154 is one of the highest-quality travel mugs that also features a tea infuser attachment, making it incredibly attractive for everyone that likes to enjoy a hot (or cold) cup of tea on the go.

Pros:

The Contigo 2034154 is made of stainless steel, or in other words, is built to last. Plus, the strong construction makes it so much more reliable in holding the temperature of the liquid constant. In fact, this unit can hold hot liquids up to 5 hours and cold up to 12 hours.

The plastic parts are BPA-free, so you’ll know that your health won’t suffer from harmful chemicals.

The unit uses an exclusive auto seal technology, so it can prevent spills. Without troubling your mind, you can place it in a bag full of books, documents, or other precious stuff, as the unit doesn’t leak and doesn’t spill.

Best of all, it can hold up to 16 ounces, which is more than three regular teacups. You can fill it before going out and have tea for the whole day.

With these features, we’ll say that this travel mug is great on its own, but with the tea infuser attachment, it becomes the perfect tool for tea lovers.

For those who appreciate good design, the Contigo stainless steel travel mug has 24 colors for you to choose from. You can match it with your bag, backpack, or simply pick your favorite color.

Cons:

Since its primary purpose is to fit the needs of travelers, the tea infuser attachment is small, which can prevent the full flavor of the tea from developing.

Additionally, the unit is quite pricey compared to our other recommendations, considering you need to pay for the infuser attachment separately from its basic price.

The Verdict:

The Contigo stainless steel travel mug is the best solution for people that like to drink freshly brewed tea while traveling. The unit has a strong construction, with auto seal and vacuum functionalities that hold the temperature of the drink constant for many hours.

Contigo Stainless Steel Travel Mug

Conclusion:

Our best overall choice is Fred & Friends MR. TEA silicone infuser, which is unique, fun, efficient, and very convenient. The unit is easy to use and clean, as it’s dishwasher and microwave-safe. We believe that it can be the perfect gift for your tea-loving friend, a way to make kids drink tea more, and a mood-booster on a hard day.

While most people go for the adorable Fred & Friends’ design, serious tea enthusiasts will want something larger and more professional, which is why we chose the Adagio Teas ingenuiTEA teapot as our highest-quality pick. This teapot features the amazing concept of dispensing tea from the bottom, by placing it above your mug. It’s large, very convenient, and still easy to maintain and clean. It’s the unit that most hard-core tea drinkers will approve of.

Another single-serving choice is the classic OXO Good Grips twisting tea ball model. The unit is an improved version of the typical ball-type tea infuser, as it features a long handle which makes it look and feel like a spoon. This tea infuser is very simple, durable, and one of the easiest products to use.

Finally, we chose the Contigo Travel Mug as our best travel mug. While there are many travel mugs available on the market today, the Contigo model stands out with its tea infuser attachment, durable construction, large space, and no-spill auto spill functionality. Whenever you’re on the road, the Contigo 2034154 won’t disappoint you.

Everything You Need To Know About Tea Infusers

Knowing a little more about tea infusers will help you figure what will work for you best. For example, do you know what are the advantages of using a tea infuser instead of regular tea bags; what are the advantages and disadvantages of different types of tea infusers; and how to prepare the perfect brew? Keep reading to find out the answers.

Why Use A Tea Infuser?

There’s nothing wrong with using tea bags for drinking tea. They’re perfectly safe and just as healthy as loose tea leaves. However, as many passionate tea lovers will tell you, the flavor is very different.

Although more convenient, tea bags are tightly packed, and the tea leaves are chopped or even minced, so they can fit in the packaging. Unfortunately, this affects the taste, as there’s no space for tea leaves to expand and release the flavor. As a result, tea from tea bags can taste bland or bitter. Using a high-quality tea infuser can change your opinion on tea, as the flavor is much more intense, making the drink more delicious.

Another reason for choosing a tea infuser are the health benefits. Like we mentioned, sometimes tea leaves need to be crushed, chopped, or smashed to fit in the tea bags, which can destroy some of the nutritional properties of certain teas. There’s a much better chance to get your daily dose of antioxidants and potent polyphenols from loose tea leaves.

Types Of Tea Infusers

Some tea experts believe that the best way to enjoy the health benefits and flavor is to brew the tea leaves in a large pot and then use a strainer to remove them before consuming. However, seeing how many options you have today, you can easily get the same tea quality from a variety of different types of tea infusers.

Tea Infuser Baskets/ Brewing Baskets

Experts and passionate tea lovers will probably opt for brewing baskets as their preferred choice. The reason for this is that brewing baskets are very spacious and they allow the leaves to flow freely in the water. Of course, there are a variety of sizes you can choose from, but baskets are not meant for making one cup of tea. This type is a great choice for families or couples who want to brew the perfect tea at home.

Tea Balls Infusers

The most popular and basic type is the tea ball infuser. This model is the opposite of the above-mentioned brewing baskets. While the baskets were designed for making large quantities of tea at once, the ball infusers are made for single-serving cups. You should only use them for one cup of tea and with a small number of tea leaves, otherwise, the small spacing won’t allow for the flavor of your tea to develop properly.

If you believe the ball type tea infuser is for you, we have the OXO Good Grips Twisting Tea Ball, as the best tea infuser in its category.

Silicone Tea Infusers

Silicone tea infusers are a variation of the ball infusers. They’re also meant for a single-serving cup of tea but differ in the material from which they’re made. While the ball infusers are made from stainless steel, the silicone tea infusers are made of silicone (BPA-free). People choose silicon tea infusers because they’re shaped artificially and in a fun way. They’re the perfect choice for you and your kids.

Our best overall recommendation, the Fred MR. TEA is a silicone type of tea infuser.

Travel Mugs

When you’re traveling, commuting to work or university, camping, or simply spending a day in the park, you’ll want a freshly brewed tea. This is the reason why people invented travel mugs with a tea infuser inside them, which can hold the liquid either hot or cold. Plus, they’re very convenient and easy to use.

For all the travelers and on-the-go tea drinkers, we recommend the Contigo stainless steel travel mug that features a tea infuser.

Teapot Infusers

If you’re a fan of tea parties, then you’ll need something more serious and larger. Although brewing baskets are large, teapots take things to the next level. You can serve two to three people with a brewing basket, while you can serve up to four or five people with a teapot, depending on its size, maybe even more.

The vintage choice would be ceramic and porcelain teapots, but today you can also find teapots made of cast iron, clay, glass, and so on.

Our highest-quality pick, the Adagio Teas ingenuiTEA, is a unique and modern variation of the classic teapot.

Tips For Steeping Loose Tea Leaves Perfectly

Assuming that brewing tea means bringing water to a boil and leaving the tea leaves for 10 minutes inside is the first mistake. Typically, you’ll know that you’ve made a mistake if the flavor is a little off, or if the tea is a little bland, or bitter.

Here are some tips to help you make delicious tea:

You need different water temperatures for different types of teas. For example, for black or dark tea, you can use almost boiling water, while for green or bright tea leaves you should leave boiled water at room temperature for five minutes before inserting the leaves. To be more precise, here are some temperature regulations, according to L’AtelierduThe:
- 75-85°C for Green Teas
- 87-95°C for Oolong Teas
- 79-90°C for White Teas

Buy high-quality tea with whole leaves. The flavor depends on the quality of the tea leaves. If the leaves are processed in some way (chopped, crushed, minced) they’ll lose nutrients and flavor, and may even become bitter.
Take out the leaves before drinking. If you leave the tea leaves for too long they may also make the drink too intense and bitter. Every herb is different, so research the appropriate brewing time for your favorite type of tea to get an aromatic and delicious taste.
Sugar is not a solution for bitterness. Your tea may turn bitter for some of the above-mentioned reasons, but you shouldn’t try to fix the situation with sugar, as you’ll only make the drink less healthy. Refined sugar is the worst option. Consider changing something in your steeping process before reaching out to sweetener, or use a natural alternative like honey or agave syrup.

How To Find the Best Tea Infuser?

Tea infusers are pretty straightforward and simple, yet you still need to pay attention when trying to find the best tea infuser for your needs.

Do you need an appliance that can hold large quantities of liquid? Do you need the tea infuser to be portable? Do you need something for the road? Although tea infusers differ a lot based on their main purpose, there are still some things you need to consider, regardless of what type of unit you want to buy.

Easy to use

Tea infusers are designed for brewing loose tea leaves quickly and efficiently. Since the main reason why people use tea bags, instead of loose tea leaves, is convenience, tea infusers need to offer something similar. Complicated, hard to figure out, heavy and big tea infusers can turn a pleasant experience into an annoying one. Therefore, look for simple and easy-to-use units.

Easy to Clean

The same principle of convenience applies here, too. You’ll want a tea infuser that’s easy to clean by hand, or it’s dishwasher safe. While some stainless steel or metal tea infusers are more durable, they can also have sharp edges between the holes where tea leaves usually get stuck. To avoid the frustration of having to unstuck used tea leaves from the tea infuser, look for

appliances that are easy to clean and maintain.

Steeping Evenly

Tea lovers know that making tea isn’t just placing a tea bag for 10 minutes into hot water. In fact, the temperature of the water and the steeping method can really affect the flavor of the tea, which is why you need a high-quality tea infuser that steeps tea leaves evenly. This is the reason why we made sure all of our recommendations can produce a perfect brew.

Before You Go

We hope that our reviews will help you find the best tea infuser for your specific needs. However, if you’re still undecided, you can use our essential buying guide to filter through the massive amount of products offered on the market today, and carefully select what works for your best.

Additionally, make sure to follow the links for each product to find out in-depth specifications, product descriptions, current prices, and customer reviews.

You can also check out our blog because we have many more product reviews, product guides, and recipes that will spark your appetite for sure.

Want to see our favorite tea infusers one more time before you go? Here they are!

Best Overall

Best Quality

Best Spoon And Ball

Best For Travel

Features: 3.25 x 4.75 x 1.75 inches, single-serving type, BPA-free silicone, dishwasher and microwave safe, a variety of fun designs.

Features: 5.25 x 4 x 6.5 inches, 16 oz serving, tritan BPA-free plastic, 3.5" diameter.

Features: 4.48 x 1.4 x 10,51 inches, single-serving type, stainless steel, twisting feature, dishwasher safe.

Features: 16.0 ounces, BPA free, vacuum insulation (hot up to 5 hours and cold up to 12), 24 colors, auto seal technology.

Best Overall

Features: 3.25 x 4.75 x 1.75 inches, single-serving type, BPA-free silicone, dishwasher and microwave safe, a variety of fun designs.

Best Quality

Features: 5.25 x 4 x 6.5 inches, 16 oz serving, tritan BPA-free plastic, 3.5" diameter.

Best Spoon And Ball

Features: 4.48 x 1.4 x 10,51 inches, single-serving type, stainless steel, twisting feature, dishwasher safe.

Best For Travel

Features: 16.0 ounces, BPA free, vacuum insulation (hot up to 5 hours and cold up to 12), 24 colors, auto seal technology.

The Best Soda Maker Reviews

Appliances Reviewed is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Do you want to add some fizz to a party or just have a fun family night? If yes, you will love how wonderfully a soda maker can spice up your special event and bring the nostalgia of the old soda shops right into your own home.

Soda makers are not only entertaining, but they offer a more nutritious alternative to traditional sodas. You can use healthier ingredients and create your new favorite fizzy drinks! There are many soda recipes available online and you can even create your own custom drinks.

On top of that, they’re more economical in the long run and will lower your ecological footprint, as you won’t be using single-use plastic bottles and cans. One of the best features of soda makers is that they can also make carbonated water and save you money on buying bottled carbonated water, too.

However, not every soda maker offers the same benefits. So, how do you choose the best soda maker for your specific needs? Hopefully, you’ll find the answer among our reviews of the best soda makers available today. Keep reading to learn more about soda makers and find out which are the most important factors you should look out for when shopping for a soda maker.

The Best Soda Makers

Best Overall

Best Quality

Best on a Budget

Best Design

SodaStream Aqua Fizz Sparkling Water Machine (Black) with Co2 & Glass Carafes

KitchenAid Sparkling Beverage Maker, Contour Silver

Drinkmate Spritzer Portable Sparkling Water and Soda Maker Drink, with .5L Re-usable BPA-Free Carbonating Bottle, Two 3 oz CO2 Cylinders and Patented Fizz Infuser, Matte Black

AARKE - CARBONATOR II (PREMIUM CARBONATOR/SPARKLING WATER MAKER) (Stainless Steel)

Features: 60L tank, 2x glass carafes, over 40 flavors and varieties.

Features: 60L CO2 tank, die-cast metal housing, 1L BPA-Free reusable bottle, compatible with SodaStream products (with over 60 flavors), made in the USA.

Features: 2x 3oz CO2 cartridges, 0.5L BPA-Free reusable bottle, portable.

Features: 60L CO2 carbonated cartridge (purchased separately), non-toxic PET plastic bottle, 2-year warranty.

Best Overall

Features: 60L tank, 2x glass carafes, over 40 flavors and varieties.

Best Quality

Features: 60L CO2 tank, die-cast metal housing, 1L BPA-Free reusable bottle, compatible with SodaStream products (with over 60 flavors), made in the USA.

Best on a Budget

Features: 2x 3oz CO2 cartridges, 0.5L BPA-Free reusable bottle, portable.

Best Design

Features: 60L CO2 carbonated cartridge (purchased separately), non-toxic PET plastic bottle, 2-year warranty.

Best Overall: SodaStream Aqua Fizz

The SodaStream Aqua Fizz soda maker is our best overall pick, as it’s a very durable and eco-friendly unit. Plus, the product has an amazing market value considering all the accessories included in the package. You’ll be getting a full starter pack, with everything you need to start making your own sodas. It’s suitable for both beginners and experienced soda makers so anyone can use it.

Pros:

The SodaStream Aqua Fizz soda maker is a highly durable device. The unit even comes with glass bottles, which means you can goodbye to plastic, completely.

Although compact and easy to store, the SodaStream Aqua Fizz comes with a 60L CO2 tank, which means you can make up to 60L of soda bottles before you need to refill it. Of course, the number of soda bottles that you make will depend on the level of carbonation of your drinks.

Another thing to keep in mind is that the unit allows you to control the carbonation level by the number of times you press the lever control and gauge.

You’ll also be happy to find that you’ll get two glass bottles with this soda maker. The glass bottle is a great alternative for people who want to ditch plastic products altogether.

Aside from being very easy-to-use, the SodaStream Aqua Fizz is also dishwasher safe. In other words, you can save a lot of time by safely washing the soda maker’s accessories and parts in the dishwasher. Be careful, you can’t throw the whole soda maker in the dishwasher.

Cons:

The glass bottles are about 20 oz each, which can be small for some people. If you’re a person who expects to carbonate large quantities of water on a daily basis, you may want to consider a device that can quickly carbonate larger bottles.

Another remark from customers was that the product is not suited for “to-go” use, because of the glass bottles. However, this is a larger model and if you’re looking for something portable, you might be better off with our budget-pick.

The Verdict:

It’s easy to see why the SodaStream Aqua Fizz comes at the top of our list. SodaStream is a very reputable brand that basically sets the standard for every other soda maker on the market. Besides, the Aqua Fizz model is one of the most balanced soda makers with an amazing price to quality and accessories ratio, which is why we believe it can make most people very happy.

Best Quality: KitchenAid KSS1121CU Sparkling Beverage Maker

Another popular, but a lot pricier soda maker is the KitchenAid’s KSS1121CU model. If you’re into a high-quality, vintage-looking soda maker, this unit might be the right one for you. This soda maker is made to last, and the attractive design, advanced CO2-release control, and SodaStream compatibility is something that many soda maker enthusiasts will appreciate.

Pros:

The KitchenAid KSS1121CU soda maker has a sturdy construction and beautiful design. The machine’s housing is made of premium die-cast metal which ensures you’ll be making soda for years to come, and it’s available in more than seven different colors, so you can make sure it is indeed a pleasant addition to your kitchen decor.

The unit has a nice vintage-looking lever on the side that releases CO2. You can completely control the amount of carbonation while monitoring the whole process, as there’s a meter that shows the release of CO2. The handle is comfortable and easy to grip.

KitchenAid made sure its soda maker can stay competitive on the market by making it compatible with SodaStream’s products. This means that you can enjoy more than 60 Sodastream flavors on your KitchenAid soda maker.

When it comes to accessories, you’ll get a big (60L) CO2 tank, plus a 1L BPA-Free reusable bottle.

Finally, another attractive feature of the KitchenAid soda maker is that it’s 100% made in the USA. The unit is designed, engineered, and assembled in Greenville, Ohio.

Cons:

Be careful of Amazon sellers’ conditions, especially for the return policy and warranty. Some people have had trouble returning the device to be repaired for free, because of issues between the sellers and the original manufacturer – KitchenAid. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and require transparency before buying anything.

Being expensive is not a disadvantage when you’re offering a product with superior quality. However, considering that you need to also buy cartridges on a regular basis (to fill the tank) the overall cost for making carbonated water at home can be an issue for some people. This is why if you’re using the device to make soda, you have nothing to worry about, but if you only use it for carbonated water, it would be wiser to go for a more basic and affordable model.

The Verdict:

The KitchenAid KSS1121CU is definitely one of the best soda makers, suited for people who are looking for a high-end device. By choosing this model, you’ll get an attractive soda maker that will allow you to make more than 60 different flavor drinks. You can also control the carbonization level, so you can make the perfect drink for your taste.

KitchenAid Sparking Beverage Maker

Best on a Budget: Drinkmate Spritzer Portable Soda Maker

Incredibly versatile, portable, and easy-to-use, the Drinkmate Spritzer makes our list as the best on a budget soda maker. However, don’t let the price fool you, as this unit has its own target. It’s perfect for campers, singles, offices, and anyone else who appreciates simplicity.

Pros:

It may be easy to underestimate the Drinkmate Spritzer soda maker, but if you decide to buy it, this little machine won’t disappoint you. It’s amazingly versatile as it can carbonate water, ice tea, juices, wine, and even cocktails.

The Drinkmate Spritzer is so compact that you can easily put it in your bag and take it with you whenever you need a fresh carbonated drink. Once you want to use it, simply press the handle to carbonate the liquid in the bottle. And it’s not just easy-to-use, the Drinkmate Spritzer is also very easy-to-clean and store.

It comes with two 10L CO2 carbonator cylinders that can make up to 40 bottles of sparkling beverages. On top of that, the cartridges for this model are easily available on Amazon or other online stores, so you won’t have problems finding a replacement.

Cons:

The Drinkmate Spritzer’s size and capacity are like a double-edged sword. While for some people it’s the best soda maker because of these features, for others it might be a major limitation. People who have large families or want to use a soda maker for parties and special occasions will probably feel extremely limited with this model.

The Verdict:

If you’re buying a soda maker for the first time or you want something simple, affordable, and easy-to-move, the Drinkmate Spritzer is the right choice for you. While it is a budget choice, the Drinkmate Spritzer has everything a high-quality soda maker should have. Plus, perfectly carbonated drinks are a guarantee.

Best Design: Aarke Carbonator II Soda Maker

IWhen you have a beautifully designed kitchen, you want just as beautiful kitchen appliances that will complement one another. We believe the Aarke Carbonator II soda maker is such a device that can also offer durability, quality, and high capacity.

Pros:

The first advantage of the Aarke Carbonator II relates to its unique Swedish design. The housing is made of stainless steel and finished with copper which gives it an even more elegant look. You can choose from five different colors: white, silver, black, brass, and copper.

The Aarke Carbonator II carbonates when the front lever is pressed, which works very quickly. You’ll have your fresh sparkling water in a matter of seconds.

When it comes to capacity, the Aarke Carbonator II soda maker is compatible with most 60L CO2 carbonated cartridges. The filling bottle that comes with the product is around 0.8L which is quite large. The bottle itself is made from non-toxic PET plastic but optically finished with a lower stainless steel base and screw cap. You should only use that bottle with the product.

Finally, to be sure you’re buying a long-lasting product, this soda maker comes with a 2-year warranty.

Cons:

The device is pretty expensive and yet it comes without a cartridge. You need to purchase one separately, which for some people might be a deal-breaker considering you have more affordable products that come with one or two cartridges.

The bottle that comes with the soda maker is not dishwasher safe, so you’ll have to carefully wash it by hand each time.

The Verdict:

The Aarke Carbonator II is the best-designed soda maker with a slim and cool style that can fit perfectly in every modern kitchen. It’s also a high-capacity device, which means it will be a nice addition to a gathering, party, wedding, or some other special occasion. If aesthetics are important for you, the Aarke Carbonator II is without doubt the best soda maker for you.

Conclusion:

SodaStream Aqua Fizz takes the first place as the best soda maker available on the market today. It’s durable, eco-friendly, and easy-to-use. Plus, it has a large tank capacity, which means you won’t need to refill new cartridges too often. Finally, this model also shines in another aspect thanks to the SodaStream reputation. It’s very easy to find replacement parts and flavor samples if you want to get more creative. The SodaStream Crystal 2.0 would be a great choice for most people.

If money is not an issue, then owning the KitchenAid KSS1121CU soda maker can bring you a lot of fun by allowing you to easily create your own personalized fizzy drinks. It’s a very strong and stable unit with a beautiful design, which you can have in eight different colors. When it comes to the drinks themselves, the KitchenAid KSS1121CU gives you full control over the carbonization and allows you to combine over 60 different flavors.

On the other hand, if affordability and portability are your two top priorities, the small but extremely efficient Drinkmate Spritzer will make sure you still get the high-quality soda maker you deserve. It’s a very versatile and user-friendly soda maker, ready to follow you wherever you go. The Drinkmate Spritzer is a perfect choice for newbies, campers, and one-person users.

Finally, when you’re looking for a soda maker to use at weddings, parties, or other special occasions, you’ll find the Aarke Carbonator II as the best soda maker. It will also please the aesthetic-lovers, as it has a very unique and beautiful stainless steel design.

Everything You Need to Know About Soda Makers

A Little History

The first rendition of the soda machine was invented in 1903. It was called the “Apparatus for aerating liquids” and was the predecessor to today’s SodaStream. Reserved for the affluent and wealthy, this device added flavor to the mix in the 1920s. By 1955, updated versions of the soda maker were made available to the general public.

Soda Makers offer fun and a touch of nostalgia for events such as birthday parties, weddings, and family reunions. They are also fun for the family to enjoy, especially if all family members enjoy fizzy drinks. SodaStream’s first commercial sells the fun of making soda at home with the tagline “Get busy with the Fizzy!”

Design And Functionality

The soda makers of today have come a long way from the models of yesterday. They generally do not use electricity, and therefore, require no batteries and don’t even have to be plugged in. They operate by utilizing carbon dioxide (CO2) which comes in a can and is inserted into the device. This is where the machines may vary. Some soda makers come with one starter can, but inevitably, you will need to purchase more. CO2 cans come in different sizes, and of course, vary in price, so it’s good to take this into consideration when deciding upon a certain model.

Much of choosing your device will depend on your intentions for it. If you want to use it at a wedding or for parties, you will most likely want to opt for one with a larger capacity. But if the soda maker will strictly be for home use, you can most likely get away with a less expensive model that will still hold up nicely for your purposes.

The designs of the soda makers range from plastic to stainless steel and everything in between. As a rule, the devices are priced accordingly.

The option of controlling the amount of carbonation you put into the drink is a nice feature. Especially if you like more or less than the usual amount, or if you have children who you’d rather use bubbles sparingly.

Additional Features

The majority of the soda makers on the market come with one or two plastic/glass bottles. Good quality soda makers come with BPA-free plastic bottles. Some, however, come with at least one glass bottle which is nice for those who prefer not to drink out of plastic.

Another twist is that some devices feature the ability to lock in freshness which is a good thing considering carbonation tends to go flat fairly quickly.

If you do opt to purchase a soda maker, you will love the wide array of choices you have for flavors. Many of the units come with flavor samples which are a great way for you to try and decide which you would like to purchase more of. You can find a number of recipes online, although many devices come with recipe booklets. There are standard flavorings and those you can combine to make unique and even custom drinks.

The device you choose will depend a lot on how much you plan to use it and what for. There are many options available, which is why it’s important to learn more about soda makers before making a purchase. The good thing is, you can easily find the best soda makers for you as long as you know what you’re looking for.

What Are the Advantages of Soda Makers?

Soda makers are entertaining and nostalgic. They are great additions to a party, wedding, or even a fun family night in. Young and old alike take pleasure in making soft drinks the old fashioned way.

On top of that, soda makers offer a more affordable way to enjoy carbonated beverages. Most sodas can be made for pennies per serving. For large events, soda makers save you a lot of money.

The third advantage would be of great appeal to environmentalists and people who aspire to be more eco-friendly. This is because when it comes to taking care of the Earth, soda makers are at the top of the list. Each soda dispensed in the device means one less can or bottle.

Last but certainly not least, soda makers give you the ability to create your own drink. You can add in little or no sugar and make other changes for a more nutritional alternative to traditional sodas. There is no limit to the creative edge you can use to concoct your own signature drinks.

How To Find the Best Soda Maker?

The best soda makers will have a few basic things in common that you will want to compare. They will also offer different features so you can decide which ones you would like to have on your device. The following factors will guide you as you narrow down the best soda maker for your needs and will help you determine which devices are good and which are the best.

Safety

Safety is something you want to watch out for in a soda maker or any appliance you intend to use. It’s wise to look for such safety features as safety punch out valves for the CO2 tanks. In addition, never leave the device on direct sunlight, around a fire, or on a hot surface, since the CO2 is under pressure and can explode if heated – this applies to all soda makers.

Simplicity And Capacity

A soda maker should be simple to use. The insertion of the CO2 can is one thing to keep in mind. The easier, the better. The buttons should be clear and easy to figure out. You don’t want to have to bear down too hard on them, or they won’t last.

Look for models that offer ease of operation. Since most soda makers these days don’t need to be plugged in or have batteries, they work via a CO2 can. It’s wise to check the size, price, and availability of the replacement cans and also to determine how many bottles the CO2 tank can produce.

Gasification Level

You’ll know that you’re looking at a good quality soda maker if it offers at least two different gasification (carbonization) levels. However, most high-end units offer a lot more control and let you choose how carbonated you like your drink to be. This is important because depending on your health, you may not be allowed to drink above a certain level of carbonization.

Accessories

When you’re comparing soda makers, take a look at the accessories or additional features that are included in your purchase. Some devices, although pricier, may come with a 60L CO2 tank, one/two reusable bottles, flavor samples, or even recipe booklets on how to create your own drink. “Cheaper” models sometimes use this illusion – sellers put a lower price, but the package doesn’t include any of the above-mentioned accessories. So, when you calculate how much you need to spend to buy the separate parts, you’ll see that the deal wasn’t cheap at all.

Before You Go

By buying one of the best soda makers we’ve picked for you, you can make your home more fun and cut your whole family’s ecological footprint. To find out more information about each product, like specific prices, detailed product descriptions, and customer reviews, feel free to follow the links.

You can also use the buying guide and all the other pieces of information we’ve shared about soda makers while you shop. Hopefully, that can help you make the right decision and find the best soda maker for you.

Finally, don’t forget to check out our blog because we have many more product reviews, product guides, and even delicious recipes.

Want to see our favorite soda makers one more time before you go? Here they are!

Best Overall

Best Quality

Best on a Budget

Best Design

Features: 60L tank, 2x glass carafes, over 40 flavors and varieties.

Features: 60L CO2 tank, die-cast metal housing, 1L BPA-Free reusable bottle, compatible with SodaStream products (with over 60 flavors), made in the USA.

Features: 2x 3oz CO2 cartridges, 0.5L BPA-Free reusable bottle, portable.

Features: 60L CO2 carbonated cartridge (purchased separately), non-toxic PET plastic bottle, 2-year warranty.

Best Overall

Features: 60L tank, 2x glass carafes, over 40 flavors and varieties.

Best Quality

Features: 60L CO2 tank, die-cast metal housing, 1L BPA-Free reusable bottle, compatible with SodaStream products (with over 60 flavors), made in the USA.

Best on a Budget

Features: 2x 3oz CO2 cartridges, 0.5L BPA-Free reusable bottle, portable.

Best Design

Features: 60L CO2 carbonated cartridge (purchased separately), non-toxic PET plastic bottle, 2-year warranty.

We Don’t Mince Words In Our Meat Grinder Reviews

STX Turboforce Classic 3000 Series Electric Meat Grinder

Appliances Reviewed is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Are you still purchasing ground meat from the grocery store? Although this is a convenient way to make wholesome, family dishes like spaghetti with meatballs, meatloaf with mashed potatoes, or homemade sausage, it’s not the cheapest nor the healthiest option. On top of that, you have no control over the fat content or how finely the meat has been ground. These are some of the reasons that drive people toward buying a home meat grinder.

However, choosing a meat grinder is not an easy task. There are a lot of factors you need to consider in order to find the best meat grinder for your specific needs. Meat grinders vary in type, price, power, speed, and accessories, which is why we created a detailed buying guide where you can learn how to choose the best meat grinder.

But first, take a look at the meat grinders we trust and believe are the best products available on the market today. Aside from detailed product descriptions, we also categorized and compared four different meat grinders, so that everyone can find their perfect match.

The Best Meat Grinders

Best Overall

Best Quality

Best on a Budget

LEM Products #10 Stainless Steel Clamp-on Hand Grinder

LEM Products W779A Stainless Steel Big Bite Electric #8-Meat Grinder (.35-HP)

Features: Electric, 1200 watts, 4 grinding plates, 3 stainless steel blades, 3 meat claws, 3 sausage tubes, 3-year warranty.s carafes, over 40 flavors and varieties.

Features: Electric, 250 watts, 1 meat stomper, 1 stainless steel knife, 1 stainless steel stuffing plate, 2 stainless steel plates, 3 stuffing tubes, 5-year warranty.

Features: Manual, stainless steel construction, 2 stainless steel plates, 1 stainless steel knife, 3 stuffing tubes, 1-year warranty.

STX Turboforce Classic 3000 Series Electric Meat Grinder

Best Overall

Features: Electric, 1200 watts, 4 grinding plates, 3 stainless steel blades, 3 meat claws, 3 sausage tubes, 3-year warranty.s carafes, over 40 flavors and varieties.

Best Quality

Features: Electric, 250 watts, 1 meat stomper, 1 stainless steel knife, 1 stainless steel stuffing plate, 2 stainless steel plates, 3 stuffing tubes, 5-year warranty.

LEM Products #10 Stainless Steel Clamp-on Hand Grinder

Best on a Budget

Features: Manual, stainless steel construction, 2 stainless steel plates, 1 stainless steel knife, 3 stuffing tubes, 1-year warranty.

Best Overall: STX Turboforce Classic 3000 Series Electric Meat Grinder

STX Turboforce Classic 3000 is our choice as the best meat grinder. The unit is great for heavy-duty work as it has an incredibly powerful motor. It’s efficient, versatile, and large enough to meet the needs of an average family as well as commercial use. We love it because it’s not too expensive, yet it offers amazing quality, making it suitable for beginners as well as professionals.

Pros:

The device is manufactured with food-grade cast aluminum and tempered/hardened steel, which makes the STX Turboforce Classic 3000 a very durable and reliable item.

When it comes to the motor power, unlike the LEM Products (250 watts) and Weston (550 watts) model, the STX Turboforce Classic 3000 has an incredible 1200-watt running capacity. This means that the unit is capable of heavy-duty work and can grind all kinds of meat effortlessly.

The unit is size 12, which means it’s one of the largest meat grinders available on the market. Just for reference, typically, electric meat grinders are #6 to #8 and they’re still more than what an average family needs.

The STX Turboforce Classic 3000 has three different speed options, so you can completely control the grinding process and the results. On high speed, the unit can grind up to 360 pounds of meat per hour. Additionally, it has a reverse speed option, just in case you sense something is wrong, so you don’t have to take out the meat manually.

Included in the STX Turboforce Classic 3000 package deal are three (304-grade stainless steel) cutting blades, three grinding plates, three sausage stuffing tubes (1/2″, 5/8″ & 3/4″), one kubbe/kibbeh making attachment, one meat pusher, two meat shredder claws, and a 3-in-1 burger-slider maker.

When it comes to the warranty, the STX Turboforce Classic 3000 offers a 3-year deal, plus a no-hassle 30-day free return policy.

Cons:

Depending on your cooking expertise and creativity, you may need to buy additional parts separately. For example, people who use the meat grinder for stuffing sausages frequently may need the “beaner plate”. Think about your needs before buying the meat grinder and consider whether you’ll need extensions.

Another remark is toward the small motor. Some customers have noticed that the motor is small which means it might heat easily when used for longer periods of time.

The STX Turboforce Classic 3000 can’t grind animal tendons, so you’ll need to thoroughly clean the meat before grinding.

The Verdict:

Grinding all kinds of meat to a perfect mash quickly and effortlessly is what makes the STX Turboforce Classic 3000 meat grinder stand out from the crowd. The unit is truly a workhorse, designed to handle large portions of meat. On top of that, it’s durable, versatile, and it comes with a more than fair price. The STX Turboforce Classic 3000 is a great choice for most people.

STX Turboforce Classic 3000 Series Electric Meat Grinder

Best Quality: LEM Products W779A Stainless Steel #8-Meat Grinder

When quality is the top priority, the LEM Products W779A #8 meat grinder comes out as the winner. The model is very durable, efficient, quiet, yet more than capable of handling heavy-duty work. The LEM Products W779A #8 is an obvious choice for professionals, as well as large families.

Pros:

The LEM Products W779A #8 meat grinder operates very efficiently with little power. The motor is only 250 watts, although it shouldn’t be underestimated. This means that you’ll get lower bills and save some extra money on electricity. Not to mention, the motor is very quiet.

The high capacity is another advantage of the LEM Products W779A #8 meat grinder. The unit can handle around seven pounds of meat per minute, which equals 420 pounds of meat per hour – 60 pounds more than the STX Turboforce Classic 3000.

The quality of the unit is certified by ETL, which means this product passed all safety standards.

You’ll get the LEM Products W779A meat grinder along with one meat stomper, one stainless steel knife, one stainless steel stuffing plate, two stainless steel plates (Coarse, Fine), and three stuffing tubes. Plus, you get a very useful storage tray for all the knives and plates.

Finally, the most impressive feature is the 5-year warranty, which is probably one of the longest warranties in the industry.

Cons:

The metal gears and bearings add to the product’s quality, but they also make the meat grinder heavy and hard to move. If you don’t have a permanent place for this appliance, moving it before and after grinding can be quite frustrating.

The Verdict:

High-quality, heavy, efficient, quiet, and durable are the key characteristics of the LEM Products W779A meat grinder and the reason why we believe it’s the highest quality meat grinder available on the market. It’s a great product for hunters, large families, restaurants, and other types of commercial use.

STX Turboforce Classic 3000 Series Electric Meat Grinder

Best on a Budget: LEM Products #10 Stainless Steel Clamp-on Hand Grinder

Our budget pick is also the only manual meat grinder featured on our list. The LEM Products #10 clamp-on hand grinder is a very durable, strong, and versatile meat grinder, great for people who don’t mind putting in a little muscle work. The clamp-on is flexible, so the unit is suited for all kinds of kitchen counters.

Pros:

Although manual, The LEM Products #10 meat grinder is a heavy-duty unit made to last. The whole device is made of stainless steel, while the end of the handle is covered with softwood, so you can have a comfortable grip.

Additionally, the handle is well designed so it turns smoothly. This feature allows for a very pleasant grinding experience.

The LEM Products #10 meat grinder is a clamp-on type of grinder, which means it attaches and locks to the kitchen corner so you can get more stability. The mounting clamp on this model is very wide (1 1/4″ thickness) so it can fit almost any counter.

With the meat grinder, you’ll get two stainless steel plates (coarse 3/8″ and fine 3/16″), one stainless steel knife, one stuffing star, and three stuffing tubes (1/2″, 3/4″ & 7/8″).

Cons:

Since the meat grinder is manual, it’s not suited for people who have a weak grip. If you’re suffering from arthritis, for example, it’s best to choose an electric type meat grinder.

Although the housing is made of stainless steel, the blade and the grate are not and they need to be hand dried and lightly oiled to prevent rusting.

The Verdict:

If you don’t mind grinding meat manually, the LEM Products #10 hand grinder is one of the best choices. The unit is made of stainless steel, features a versatile mounting clamp, and comes with a great set of accessories, which can help you make the perfect burgers, sausages, or simple ground meat meals.

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LEM Products #10 Stainless Steel Clamp-on Hand Grinder

Best For Commercial Use: No products found.

No products found.We understand that professionals might need a more powerful, faster, and convenient meat grinder that can meet the standards of busy kitchens in restaurants. This is why we included the Weston (08-1201-W) Pro Series model in our best meat grinder for commercial use.

Pros:

The Weston (08-1201-W) Pro Series is very durable as it’s well-built and has a sturdy construction. It’s made of stainless steel and has precision-engineered steel gears. The motor is permanently lubricated and the unit features an air cooling system so that it doesn’t overheat.

The steel gears allow the device to operate very quietly, which is an amazing feature considering most meat grinders are very noisy.

The unit has a 550 watts motor, which means it won’t spend much electricity, yet it’s capable of grinding more than 18 pounds of meat per minute, or approximately 540-pound of meat per hour – more than all of the other recommendations.

The Weston (08-1201-W) Pro Series is designed to have a very wide throat so you can pour large pieces of meat very easily and all at once, which makes the device incredibly fast. By the time you place all of your meat in the machine, the grinding process will be done.

Along with the meat grinder, you’ll also get two stainless steel plates for coarse (7 mm) and fine (4.5 mm) grinds, stainless steel knife, sausage stuffing kit including adapter, spacer, and four different sized funnels.

It’s good to know that you can disassemble the device so you easily and thoroughly clean it after using it.

Cons:

Unfortunately, we’ve noticed that the main grievance against this product is the customer service and not the device itself. Be careful about which seller you’re buying from and whether all of the documentation regarding the warranty is in place to prevent problems in the future.

The Verdict:

More powerful than all of our recommendations and faster than your ability to put meat in the grinder, the Weston (08-1201-W) Pro Series is the professional’s choice. It’ll be a good addition to any kitchen as its very quiet and easy-to-clean and store. Also, chefs won’t have problems transporting it from one spot to another, as the model comes with strong transport handles.

No products found.

Conclusion:

Our pick as the best meat grinder overall is the powerful STX Turboforce Classic 3000. The unit comes from a reputable brand and offers a 3-year warranty with a no-hassle 30-day return policy. But, we assure you, returning it will never cross your mind if you decide to buy this model. It’s great for heavy-duty work, it’s versatile, and offers a lot of control so you can get a perfect ground meat consistency. This meat grinder is the smart choice for a lot of people.

However, if you want a fancier, higher-end meat grinder that will last you for years to come, we recommend the LEM Products W779A #8 meat grinder. Aside from its efficiency, high capacity, and advanced features, the unit offers a 5-year warranty that will please meat-lovers, hunters, and professional chefs alike.

The only manual meat grinder that made our list is the LEM Products #10 clamp-on meat grinder. Its strong construction, flexible clamp, and comfortable grip handle for smooth grinding experience have made the unit our top budget-choice. The unit also comes with an array of accessories, so if you don’t mind the muscle-work, you can grind pretty much anything you like.

Finally, the Weston Pro Series model is our recommendation for the best meat grinder for commercial use. Of course, meat enthusiasts can use it at home, but this high-powered machine can easily handle large amounts of meat that can feed a crowd. It’s very fast, quiet, and efficient. Plus, it comes with a 2-year warranty.

Everything You Need To Know About Meat Grinders

Reasons For Using A Meat Grinder At Home

Mincing meat might seem like a time-intensive chore, but it’s one that will improve the quality of your dishes and potentially help you save money in the long run. Many times, the ground meat in our local grocery store can be made from the leftovers of the animal after all of the prime cuts have been taken. When you own this kitchen appliance, you can control the quality of the meat you’re grinding, which will help you make healthier and more delicious meals.

If you’re making some specific dishes that require some fat or lard, a meat grinder can also help you control the actual amount of fat that you include. You can add or remove fat as necessary to create the right conditions for cooking based on your specific needs. In many typical store-bought sausages, for example, the fat content in the meat can exceed 50%. On the other hand, you can create your own products with 80% less fat.

Meat grinders at home are also a very safe option for handling raw meat. There is a dramatic reduction of potential food allergens, including gluten, that can contaminate the meat. You’ll also reduce the risks of an E. Coli contamination in the meat because there is less risk of cross-contamination in a home kitchen compared to a grocery butcher station.

Grinding your own meat is also a way to make sure that you’re getting a fresh product. It isn’t uncommon for ground meat to come from products that have passed their sell-by date or have been flash-frozen to preserve quality. There’s even the risk that your grocery ground meat could actually come from reprocessed meat byproducts that have been re-purposed for food – the “pink slime” meat that is a very controversial topic.

Meat Grinder Type

The usual debate about this useful kitchen appliance is whether or not one should invest in an electric meat grinder. A lot of this depends on how much you anticipate using the grinder. If you think you’ll be having a ground dish once a week at most, then you’re likely better off with a hand-cranked grinder to meet your needs. If you anticipate using your grinder more than this, then an electric grinder will save you a lot of time and hassle.

Safety is also a major concern with this appliance as it can easily grind up a finger if it gets stuck inside the machine. Instead of feeding meat by hand, use some sort of press to push the meat through. With manual meat grinders, you control the mechanism, so just be sure to keep your fingers at a safe distance at all times.

Cleaning And Maintaining The Meat Grinder

The cleaning process is a very important aspect of meat grinders because you’re working with raw meat. The machine must be cleaned after every use to prevent contamination and reduce the risks of food-borne illnesses. Take apart your entire grinder to make sure you’ve removed all of the raw products. Look for an appliance that is easy to take apart and clean to reduce the amount of time spent in cleaning and maintaining the grinder.

How To Use Meat Grinders?

Use firm cuts of meat. The firmer the meat is, the better your grinding experience will be. With poultry, use the darker meats instead of breast meat for grinding. Firm seafood, like swordfish or tuna, can hold up to the grinding process. Short ribs, butt roasts, and chuck are also perfect for grinding.

Use quality flavoring ingredients. Because you’re using a meat grinder for a fresh ground product, you’ll get better flavoring results from fresh herbs and spices than you will from dried, prepackaged items. If you do need to use pre-made flavors, go for short shelf-life items like minced garlic, capers, chives, or parsley.

Chill your meat and your grinder. To get the cleanest cut possible, you need to put your choice of meat into the freezer before beginning. It shouldn’t be frozen, but it should feel firm to the touch. It generally takes about 15 minutes to chill the meat that you’ve cut into 1-inch square cubes. Make sure the grinder is not heated before starting to grind.

What Are the Advantages of Meat Grinders?

The primary advantage of having this appliance in your kitchen is the ability to create higher-quality meals for a lower price. Whole cuts of meat are often a better value at the grocery store than low-fat ground meats, which means you can even improve your diet through the use of a quality meat grinder.

The best meat grinders will also give you the advantage of flavor variety. Animal protein absorbs herbs, spices, and flavors during the cooking process, but not after it has been completed. You can combine fresh herbs, a little salt, or your favorite marinade with the meat as it is ground to create flavorful dishes that are difficult to replicate from already ground meat products.

The final advantage of using a good meat grinder is that you can use it to make your own sausages and other minced meat dishes like burgers. Just get some meat tubing from your favorite supplier, find some amazing sausage recipes, and then begin the grinding process. Both electrical and hand-cranked options will give you the flexibility that you need to create virtually anything in the kitchen.

How To Find the Best Meat Grinder?

Now that you know more about meat grinders, here are the most important factors you should always consider before making a buying decision.

Power And Capacity

Meat grinders can largely vary in power, mostly because they’re suited for different purposes. For example, low-duty meat grinders require very little power, however, commercial use meat grinders need to be powerful enough to handle all kinds of meat in a quick and efficient way. The same goes for capacity, which measures how much meat per hour the meat grinder can handle. Large families or businesses can benefit from a high power and capacity meat grinder, while the average home-cook might be overwhelmed with such a device and will benefit more from a simpler model.

Sturdiness and Blade Quality

The materials and craftsmanship of the meat grinder should be your primary consideration. You’ll need an appliance that won’t tarnish, discolor, or leave plating materials in your meat as you’re grinding it. The craftsmanship also includes the quality of the blades that are being used to grind the meat, as stronger, sharper blades will give you a finer mincing cut for better overall cooking. This is why we recommended stainless steel products.

Ergonomics

How you stabilize the meat grinder should also be a consideration. Most hand-cranked grinders will affix tightly to the counter via a vice or clamping method, although entry-level models sometimes just sit on a level surface and you must control the stability. Electric meat grinders are the easiest to use as you simply feed the meat through the grinder, letting the appliance do all of the work for you. If you’re using a cranking grinder, look for a quality handle that won’t deform when you have a tough cut to grind.

Price

Meat grinders come in two basic forms: a manual grinder and an electric grinder. The manual grinders are typically the budget-friendly option as you can often get a heavy-duty grinder on a website like Amazon for less than $100.

On the other hand, high-quality electric grinders may cost anywhere from $200 to $500 and more, since they have multiple grinding speeds and blades. So, consider how much you want to spend on a meat grinder and how will that price determine the other functionalities that you need from your new meat grinder.

Before You Go

Hopefully, you’ll find our comprehensive reviews and detailed buying guide useful in your search for the best meat grinder. You might already have your eye on a certain product from our recommendations, but in case you’re still in doubt, feel free to follow the links and learn about prices, product specifications, and customer reviews for each recommendation.

You can also check out our blog for many more product reviews and product guides essential for any kitchen. You can even find delicious recipes to test with your new meat grinder.

Want to see our favorite meat grinders one more time before you go? Here they are!

Best Overall

Best Quality

Best on a Budget

LEM Products #10 Stainless Steel Clamp-on Hand Grinder

Features: Electric, 1200 watts, 4 grinding plates, 3 stainless steel blades, 3 meat claws, 3 sausage tubes, 3-year warranty.s carafes, over 40 flavors and varieties.

Features: Electric, 250 watts, 1 meat stomper, 1 stainless steel knife, 1 stainless steel stuffing plate, 2 stainless steel plates, 3 stuffing tubes, 5-year warranty.

Features: Manual, stainless steel construction, 2 stainless steel plates, 1 stainless steel knife, 3 stuffing tubes, 1-year warranty.

STX Turboforce Classic 3000 Series Electric Meat Grinder

Best Overall

Features: Electric, 1200 watts, 4 grinding plates, 3 stainless steel blades, 3 meat claws, 3 sausage tubes, 3-year warranty.s carafes, over 40 flavors and varieties.

Best Quality

Features: Electric, 250 watts, 1 meat stomper, 1 stainless steel knife, 1 stainless steel stuffing plate, 2 stainless steel plates, 3 stuffing tubes, 5-year warranty.

LEM Products #10 Stainless Steel Clamp-on Hand Grinder

Best on a Budget

Features: Manual, stainless steel construction, 2 stainless steel plates, 1 stainless steel knife, 3 stuffing tubes, 1-year warranty.