Avid Armor USV32 Vacuum Sealer Review High-Performance Food Preservation for Home and Commercial Use

Description

A Sleek and Powerful Vacuum Sealing Solution

I recently got my hands on the Avid Armor Ultra Series USV32, and as someone who enjoys experimenting in the kitchen, I was curious to see how it lived up to its reputation. This chamber vacuum sealer has been talked about for its professional-grade features and compact design, so I put it to the test with everything from soups to marinades to delicate dry goods. While it truly impressed me in many areas, there are definitely a few things to note before diving in.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that stood out to me was the sleek, compact design of this stainless steel unit. It doesn’t scream industrial kitchen, but it absolutely feels sturdy and premium. Measuring 12 inches by 11.5 inches by 3.5 inches, it fits snugly on my countertop without taking up too much space. The clear glass lid not only lets you see what’s happening during the sealing process but also gives it a modern edge that’s pretty satisfying to watch.

At 26.4 pounds, it’s not exactly lightweight, but that’s a small trade-off for the durability it offers. The stainless steel finish makes it easy to clean, which is a major plus when you’re dealing with messy liquids like sauces or marinades. If aesthetics and practicality matter to you, this machine nails both.

Ease of Use

Operating the Avid Armor USV32 is refreshingly simple. The one-touch controls take out the guesswork, and the 11.5-inch vacuum seal bar equipped with dual sealing wires lets you work efficiently. I found it especially helpful for handling multiple small food items at once, which is a time-saver when batch prepping.

The inclusion of a vacuum accessory hose adds another layer of versatility. I’ve used it to vacuum-seal jars and containers, and it’s a game-changer for keeping dry goods like coffee beans and nuts fresh. The hose plugs into the port under the seal bar, and the installation is straightforward even for someone who isn’t super tech-savvy.

Performance and Features

This machine really shines in its performance. The high vacuum pressure ensures a leak-free seal, even with liquid-heavy foods like soups, marinades, and cocktails. I tested it with a batch of homemade tomato soup, and not a single drop escaped. It’s also perfect for prepping sous vide meals, which is something I’ve been doing a lot more of lately.

One standout feature is its ability to marinate meats inside the chamber using either a bag or a bowl. By opening up the surface of the meat during the vacuuming process, the flavors from the marinade are absorbed more deeply, resulting in significantly tastier dishes. I tried this with a flank steak, and the difference in flavor was noticeable.

Another aspect worth mentioning is its compact chamber size. While it’s large enough for small family meals or individual portions, it might not be ideal for bulkier items. That said, the smaller size makes it more convenient for everyday kitchen use compared to larger, more cumbersome vacuum sealers.

Key Benefits

• Leak-free sealing for liquid-rich foods like soups and marinades.
• Marinating function enhances flavors effectively.
• One-touch controls simplify the sealing process.
• Accessory hose for vacuum-sealing jars and containers.
• Compact and countertop-friendly design with a clear glass lid.

Areas for Improvement

While the Avid Armor Ultra Series USV32 ticks a lot of boxes, it’s not without its flaws. Here are a few areas where I think it could improve:

• Limited chamber size may be restrictive for larger cuts of meat or bulky items.
• It’s heavier than expected, making it less portable.
• The instruction manual could be more detailed, especially for first-time users.

Competing Products

Looking at other vacuum sealers in the market, there are a few competitors that come to mind. For instance, the FoodSaver FM5200 and the Weston Pro-2300 are popular choices. The FoodSaver is more affordable and compact, but it struggles with liquids and doesn’t offer the same professional-grade features. The Weston Pro-2300, on the other hand, is a powerhouse but comes with a much larger footprint and a higher price point.

Compared to these, the Avid Armor USV32 strikes a balance between performance and practicality. It excels in handling liquids and offers advanced marinating options, which the FoodSaver can’t match. While the Weston might be better for industrial use, the USV32 is better suited for home kitchens due to its compact design and ease of operation.

Price Performance

When evaluating the price-performance ratio, the Avid Armor USV32 does feel like a good investment for those who want a high-quality vacuum sealer without going overboard. While it’s not the cheapest option on the market, its durability, versatility, and top-notch sealing performance make it worth the cost. If you’re someone who frequently cooks sous vide, preps meals in advance, or wants to extend the shelf life of fresh ingredients, this is a reliable choice.

What’s more, the additional features like the vacuum accessory hose and marinating capabilities elevate its value. Cheaper models often skip these extras, leaving you with a less flexible product. For me, the ability to vacuum-seal jars and containers was a bonus that made the price feel justified.

Final Thoughts

Testing the Avid Armor Ultra Series USV32 has been a rewarding experience. Its professional-grade sealing, user-friendly controls, and innovative features like the marinating function make it a standout product in the crowded vacuum sealer market. While it’s not perfect and has some limitations in chamber size and portability, these are minor drawbacks compared to its overall performance.

This chamber vacuum sealer is an excellent choice for home cooks and professionals alike who value quality and reliability. Whether you’re sealing liquids, prepping sous vide meals, or marinating meats, it delivers consistent results that are hard to beat.

Additional information