Handheld sealers are small cordless pumps for zipper bags and containers. They're great for leftovers and opened bags of chips, but not for long-term freezer storage.
- Best overallChef Preserve Compact Vacuum SealerAbout $99
- Best for FoodSaver ownersFoodSaver Mini HandheldAbout $60
No. 1Best overall
Chef Preserve Compact Vacuum Sealer
- Price
- About $99
- Type
- Handheld
- Seal bar or bags
- None (reusable bags)
- Liquids
- No
- Pump
- Cordless, rechargeable
- Warranty
- See Chef Preserve
Seals its reusable bags in about five seconds and runs about three hours per charge, per Healthy Recipes 101, which measured about 36 kPa of suction. You're tied to Chef Preserve's own bags.
What we like
- Fast
- Long battery
What to know
- Proprietary bags
- Weaker freezer seal
No. 2Best for FoodSaver owners
FoodSaver Mini Handheld
- Price
- About $60
- Type
- Handheld
- Seal bar or bags
- None (zipper bags)
- Liquids
- No
- Pump
- Cordless
- Warranty
- 1 year (limited)
A cordless handheld that works with FoodSaver zipper bags and containers, for around $60, with a one-year limited warranty. It doesn't heat-seal rolls.
What we like
- Small
- Works with FoodSaver containers
What to know
- FoodSaver bags only
Handheld or countertop?
For anything going in the freezer for months, a countertop heat sealer is the better tool. See handheld vs countertop.
