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Ever wondered why the packaged foods in the supermarket last for a long time? Aside from being refrigerated 24/7, it is also packed by a vacuum sealer. It has been proven that vacuum-packed products last 2 to 5 times as long as non-packed ones. Some also say that it tastes fresher because vacuum sealers remove most of the factors that break foods down such as oxygen.
As a result of longer shelf life, you will also save money in the long run by using a vacuum sealer. You can save money by buying food in bulk, then sealing them. Then, you can open the food whenever you need them. By using a vacuum sealer, frozen cut meat can last for as long as 2 to 3 years, frozen fish up to 2 years, and ground meat up to 1 year. If this impressed you like I was, you are going to love the FoodSaver V4840 and FM5200. Let’s compare them and see which vacuum sealer is better.
FoodSaver V4840 vs FoodSaver FM5200
| Name |
FoodSaver V4840 |
FoodSaver FM5200 |
| Image |  |
 |
| Vacuum Sealer Type | External | External |
| Automation | Automatic | Manual |
| Mode | Dry/Moist & Quick Marinade | Dry/Moist & Quick Marinade |
| Patented Removable Drip Tray | Yes | Yes |
| Cool Down Required Between Seals | 20 seconds | 20 seconds |
| Designed to Prevent Burns | Yes | Yes |
| Roll-Storage and Cutter Bar | Yes | Yes |
| Handheld Sealer | Yes | Yes |
| UL or ETL Safety Standard | Yes | Yes |
| Dimensions (H x L x W) | 11 x 20 x 12 inches | 9.3 x 17.6 x 9.6 inches |
| Weight | 8.4 lbs | 10.4 lbs |
| Wattage | 128 Watts | 26 Watts |
| What’s Included | 11″ x 10′ vacuum seal roll, 3 x 1-quart vacuum seal bags, 2 x 1-gallon vacuum seal bags, 3 x 1-quart vacuum zipper bags, 2 x 1-gallon vacuum zipper bags | 11″ x 10′ vacuum seal roll, 3 x 1-quart vacuum seal bags, 2 x 1-gallon vacuum seal bags, 3 x 1-quart vacuum zipper bags, 2 x 1-gallon vacuum zipper bags |
| Price | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Amazon |
Starter Kit
Once you open the box, you will find the vacuum sealer, along with a starter kit containing a selection of FoodSaver bags in rolls. This 11” x 10’ roll can last you up to 20 seals depending on the size of the seals. Moreover, there are vacuum zipper bags that you can use with the retractable handheld sealer.
Retractable Handheld Sealer
The FoodSaver V4840 and FM5200 have a retractable handheld sealer. It can be easily seen because it is placed in a bright neon green housing. Aside from the already mentioned vacuum zipper bags, both vacuum sealers can also seal other containers such as Tupperware from FoodSaver. If you want to get the most out of this retractable handheld sealer, I suggest you buy the FoodSaver’s wide-mouth jar sealer accessory. Using this accessory, you can seal grains and uncooked pasta in a jar.
Roll Storage and Cut Bar
If you are not interested in buying other accessories, the included rolls and bags can be enough for most use cases. The vacuum seal roll has its dedicated storage for convenience. To trim these rolls to size, you can use the integrated cut bar that is safe to use.
Related Comparison: FoodSaver 5460 vs 5800
Differences between FoodSaver V4840 and FM5200
Find out how these FoodSaver vacuum sealer models are different.
Automatic versus Manual
If we are talking about cars, some people prefer to use manual transmission for better overall control, while others favor automatic transmission for its convenience. Let’s see if automatic is always better.
FoodSaver V4840
The FoodSaver V4840 has automatic bag detection and vacuum sealing. Therefore, it provides a full vacuum seal without ever needing to use your hands so you can multitask while the machine seals your bags. The marinade mode is a welcome addition offering quicker marination in just a matter of minutes.
FoodSaver FM5200
While the FoodSaver FM5200 does not have automatic bag detection, the sealing process is as easy. You are not required to hold the bags while it is sealing so multitasking is also possible. Marinade mode is also present in the FM5200 so you can quickly marinate the meat for your dinner.
The Winner Is- FoodSaver V4840
Dimensions and Weight
You should also consider the dimensions and weights of these vacuum sealers because you will be moving these around your kitchen counter for whatever the case may be.
FoodSaver V4840
The look of the FoodSaver V4840 is attractive. It will fit right in with your other appliances with its silver and black design. The bright neon green part that houses the retractable handheld sealer adds a playful look to it, avoiding looking dull and boring. The V4840 is larger than the FM5200 while keeping its weight lower. It sits at 11 x 20 x 12 inches and 8.4 pounds.
FoodSaver FM5200
One advantage of the FM5200 is its compact size which makes it perfect to keep it handy on your kitchen counter. Although its body is more compact than the V4840, it is much heavier with its 10.4 pounds of weight. If you see yourself moving the vacuum sealers around, go with the more lightweight V4840. Otherwise, FM5200 is also a great choice, especially for smaller countertops.
The Winner Is- It’s A Tie
Related Comparison: FoodSaver 4980 vs 4840: Which Vacuum Sealer is Better?
Value for the Money
Price is the ultimate deciding factor since both vacuum sealers have essentially identical functionality.
FoodSaver V4840
Due to the addition of automatic bag detection, the FoodSaver V4840 is more expensive than the FM5200. If this feature is important to you, then go ahead and get V4840 as it is better overall.
FoodSaver FM5200
On the other hand, you can get the FM5200 for cheaper. If you value purpose over design, the FM5200 is right up your alley.
The Winner Is- FoodSaver FM5200
Also read: FoodSaver V2244 vs FM2000
Pros and Cons
The pros and cons of the Vacuum Sealers FoodSaver V4840 and FoodSaver FM5200 will help us to determine which is the better option.
FoodSaver V4840
Pros:
- The automatic bag detection of the FoodSaver V4840 makes for a hassle-free vacuum sealing experience.
- It has a better overall design and looks.
- Moving the V4840 around is easier, due to its more lightweight body.
Cons:
- Although it has the same functionality as the FM5200, it costs more expensive.
FoodSaver FM5200
Pros:
- The vacuum sealing experience is as easy as the automatic V4840.
- The roll storage can be seen from the side, so you don’t have to guess whether it’s empty or not.
- You will get more value for your money with the FM5200.
Cons:
- Although appearance is subjective, the FM5200 does not have the most luxurious design.
The Final Verdict
Buying a vacuum sealing machines is indeed an investment because they don’t come cheap. Aside from keeping your food fresher and longer, FoodSaver mentioned that you can save up to $2700 annually using one of these vacuum sealing machines. However, their large price tags are justified by the long-term savings you can get from them. The FoodSaver V4840 provides you a fully automated vacuum sealing experience at the comforts of your home. Its luxurious design adds value to an already functional machine. It is indeed better between the two vacuum sealers. But if you are looking for the most value for your money, get the FoodSaver FM5200, instead.