Potane VS5736 Vacuum Sealer: My Kitchen Test Drive

So, you're looking into the Potane Vacuum Sealer, huh? I was in the same boat a little while ago. The full name is the Potane Precision Vacuum Machine, Pro Food Sealer (model VS5736, if you're into specifics), and it promises to be a bit of a workhorse for keeping food fresh. I decided to put it through its paces, and honestly, it's been an interesting experience. You know how some kitchen gadgets look great but then just gather dust? I was keen to see if this would be one of them, or if it would actually earn its spot on the counter. Let's dive into what I found.

Design

First off, the look and feel. The Potane has a pretty sleek design, mostly stainless steel with some black accents, which, I think, gives it a kind of professional vibe. It doesn't scream "look at me!" but it doesn't look cheap either. It's got this "C-type half-wrapped chamber design," which sounds fancy, but I think it's mostly about keeping the important bits protected from dust and gunk, which is a good thought.

What I really appreciated right away was the built-in bag storage and cutter. It's just so convenient not having to hunt for the roll of bags or a pair of scissors every time I want to seal something. You just pull out what you need, slide the cutter across, and you've got a custom-sized bag. The machine itself feels fairly sturdy, weighing in at about 6.5 pounds. It's not feather-light, but it's not so heavy that you dread moving it. Dimensions are roughly 11 inches long, 6.5 inches wide, and 5 inches high, so it's relatively compact – it found a home in my pantry without too much fuss. One thing they tout is the "one-hand operation" for locking the lid, and yeah, it's pretty easy to use, even if your other hand is busy holding a bag full of food.

Performance

Alright, let's get to the important bit: how well does it actually work? In my experience, pretty darn well. Potane says it uses an "8mm sealing element" which is apparently wider than some others, and the seals it made on the bags felt really secure. I didn't have any issues with seals failing in the freezer, which is the ultimate test, right?

It has both automatic and manual options, and "moist" and "dry" food modes. I tried it with a bunch of different things. For dry stuff like nuts and, yes, coffee beans (had to bring coffee in somewhere!), it was straightforward. For moist foods, like some marinated chicken I was prepping for sous vide (another great use for this!), the "moist" setting seemed to handle it well, preventing too much liquid from getting sucked up towards the seal area. You do have to be a bit careful with very wet items, maybe even pre-freeze them a little, but that's common advice for most vacuum sealers I've looked at.

They claim it can be used "over 100 times continuously." I didn't quite go that far in one session – my arm would have gotten tired bagging that much! – but I did a big batch of bulk meat dividing and it didn't seem to struggle or overheat. The vacuum power felt strong, and it did a good job of sucking the air out. It's not silent, mind you. There's a definite whirring and then a sort of "thunk" as it seals, but it's not offensively loud, perhaps just a bit louder than I initially expected. It's the kind of noise that makes you feel like it's actually doing something, if that makes sense. It also comes with an accessory port for sealing containers, though I haven't personally tested that feature extensively yet.

Technical Specifications

For those who like the nitty-gritty details, here's a rundown:

Pros

So, what did I love?

• Really easy to use: The built-in cutter and bag storage are game-changers for convenience.
• Strong, reliable seals: My food has stayed fresh, and no freezer burn so far!
• Versatile: Handles dry and moist foods well, and the manual mode gives you more control.
• One-handed operation: Genuinely helpful when you're juggling bags.
• Solid build: Feels like it will last, and the 5-year warranty is very reassuring.
• Good for bulk prep: It can handle continuous use pretty well.

Cons

Nothing's perfect, right?

• A bit noisy: It's not a dealbreaker, but don't expect a silent operation. It’s noticeable.
• Learning curve for very moist foods: Like many sealers, you need to be a bit careful to avoid sucking liquids into the machine. Pre-freezing helps.
• Size of bag rolls: While it comes with rolls, some users mentioned that very large third-party rolls might be a tight fit in the storage, though I used the included ones and some standard replacements without issue.

What Are People Saying? Overall Sentiment

I took a peek at what other users are saying on Amazon and other review sites. Generally, the sentiment is overwhelmingly positive. The Potane VS5736 has a high average rating (around 4.6 out of 5 stars from thousands of reviews on Amazon), which is pretty impressive.

Many users echo my thoughts on its ease of use and the convenience of the built-in cutter and storage. A lot of folks praise its strong suction and sealing capabilities. For instance, one Amazon reviewer, F. Davis, mentioned: "I bought this model because it was recommended by a family member who's used the same model for years... It's so easy to use... Now I make my own freezer bag to size, vacuum and seal with the press of a button, and toss the item into the freezer." Another one, Tami Dalrymple, wrote: "This has been by far the best food vacuum sealer I have purchased to date. Super easy to use, easy to clean and the noise is not overly loud like others. It works with any brand of bags as well. Definitely worth every penny!"

Of course, there are a few less glowing comments. The noise level is mentioned by some, as I found. And, as with any appliance, there are occasional reports of units having issues, but the 5-year warranty seems to be a strong point for customer service to step in. One review site, Serious Eats, in a broader comparison, noted that the "Vacuum and seal time took longer than other models," but it wasn't a major focus of their critique for this specific model. Overall, people seem to feel it's a solid, reliable machine that does what it promises.

Who Is This For? My Recommendation

Okay, so who should buy the Potane VS5736?

• Beginners: I think it's actually a pretty good choice. The clear labels, built-in features, and one-touch auto mode make it less intimidating than some other models. The instructions are fairly clear too.
• Intermediate Users: If you're already familiar with vacuum sealing and do it regularly (maybe for meal prep, sous vide, or buying in bulk), this machine is definitely up to the task. It has the features and durability you'd want.
• Advanced Users: If you're sealing massive quantities daily or need very specialized functions (like, say, for commercial use), you might look at even higher-end, industrial-type machines. But for even very enthusiastic home cooks who preserve a lot of food, I think this Potane model strikes a really good balance of features, performance, and price. It feels like a pro-sumer kind of device.

Consider These Alternatives

If you're still shopping around, which is always a smart move, here are a few other well-regarded vacuum sealers you might want to check out:

1. Nesco VS-12 Deluxe Vacuum Sealer: Often praised for its performance and features, including a double heat seal. It's a very popular alternative.
   
   • 
     Nesco Deluxe Food VS-12 Vacuum Sealer, 130 Watts, Kit Bags & Viewing Lid, Compact, Silver

     • OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE: 130 watt, 25. 1 InHG double vacuum pump for optimal performance. Ensures maximum air extraction when sealing larger food items
     • VARIABLE SETTINGS: Includes 3 settings - dry, moist and double. Plus, you can choose between normal vacuum pressure, or gentle, to keep soft foods safe
     • EASY-LOCK HANDLE: The easy-lock handle makes one-handed operation smooth and easy
     • DOUBLE HEAT SEAL: Optional doubleheat seal provides added strength and security when sealing liquid-based or moist foods
     • BUILT-IN STORAGE & BAG CUTTER: Conveniently stores any brand of vacuum sealer bags in unit, while the bag cutter helps to create custom bag sizes for your needs
     • VACUUM SEALER BAGS INCLUDED: Two bag rolls are included to get you started, one 8.6” x 9.85’ roll and one 11.8”x 9.85 roll
     Amazon

     $ 95.99 -31%
2. FoodSaver V4400 2-in-1 Vacuum Sealer Machine: FoodSaver is a big name in this space, and this model offers automatic bag detection and a handheld sealer attachment, which is pretty neat for canisters and zipper bags.
   
   • 
     FoodSaver V4400 2-in-1 Vacuum Sealer Machine with Automatic Vacuum Sealer Bag Detection and Starter Kit

     • SAVE MONEY AND SEAL FRESHNESS IN: MEAT PRESERVED WITH THE FOODSAVER SYSTEM IN THE FREEZER CAN LAST UP TO 3 YEARS AND STILL TASTE FRESH, FLAVORFUL, AND FREEZER BURN FREE; PREP AHEAD MEALS, LEFTOVERS, AND PRODUCE STORED IN THE FRIDGE WILL STAY FRESH UP TO WEEKS LATER INSTEAD OF SPOILING IN DAYS.Includes: (1) 11""x10' vacuum seal roll (3) 1-quart vacuum seal bags (2) 1-gallon vacuum seal bags (3) 1-quart vacuum zipper bags (2) 1-gallon zipper bags
     • AUTOMATIC BAG DETECTION: AUTOMATIC BAG DETECTION MAKES VACUUM SEALING EASIER THAN EVER: SIMPLY PUT THE BAG IN THE VACUUM CHAMBER AND THE MACHINE DOES THE REST TO ENSURE YOUR FOOD STAYS FRESH AND FLAVORFUL
     • SIMPLE TO USE: BUILT IN ROLL STORAGE AND CUTTER LETS YOU EASILY MAKE CUSTOM SIZED BAGS TO FIT WHATEVER YOU SEAL, WHILE LED LIGHT INDICATORS EASILY GUIDE YOU THROUGH THE VACUUM SEALING PROCESS
     • VERY CONSISTENT SEALING: GUARANTEED TO REACH AN OPTIMAL VACUUM LEVEL AND AIRTIGHT SEAL; THE V4440 IS DURABLE, HIGH QUALITY, AND BACKED BY A 5 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY
     • AUTOMATIC MOISTURE DETECTION: SMART TECHNOLOGY AUTOMATICALLY DETECTS MOISTURE AND SWITCHES TO THE CORRECT MODE TO ENSURE AN AIRTIGHT SEAL IS ACHIEVED. THE PATENTED REMOVABLE DRIP TRAY WILL CATCH ANY OVERFLOW LIQUID AND IS DISHWASHER SAFE, MAKING THIS KITCHEN APPLIANCE EASY TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN
     • NRTL TESTED & CERTIFIED PRODUCT: ALL FOODSAVER APPLIANCES ARE ETL OR UL CERTIFIED BY NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED TEST LABORATORIES (NRTLS) FOR COMPLIANCE WITH APPLICABLE PRODUCT SAFETY TEST STANDARDS; SAFETY IS OUR NUMBER 1 PRIORITY
     • COMPATIBILITY: WORKS WITH FOODSAVER 8 INCHES AND 11 INCHES VACUUM SEAL ROLLS, ALL PRE MADE BAG SIZES, FRESHSAVER ZIPPER BAGS, FRESH CONTAINERS, AND QUICK MARINATOR; OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES INCLUDE FOODSAVER REGULAR AND WIDE MOUTH MASON JAR SEALERS AND FOODSAVER BOTTLE STOPPERS FOR WINE AND OIL BOTTLES
     Amazon

     $ 159.99 -20%
3. Anova Culinary Precision Vacuum Sealer: Anova is well-known in the sous vide world, and their vacuum sealer is designed to complement that. It's often liked for its sleek design and reliable sealing.
   
   • 
     Anova Culinary Precision Vacuum Sealer Pro, Includes Large Bag Roll (19ft), Wet & Dry Dual Food Vacuum Sealer Machine for Sous Vide and Long-Term Storage, 2-Year Warranty

     • The more robust, older sibling to our best selling “minimalist” Precision Vacuum Sealer. Expect a high power vacuum, reliable double sealer, built-in bag storage and cutter, an accessory port for sealing containers, and the ability to seal wet foods without worry – all with just one hand.
     • ONE HAND SEALING: Designed to be fully functional, while using just one hand. Clamping bags, vacuuming, and sealing are all easily accomplished with a single hand.
     • MARINADE FRIENDLY: Switch modes to wet-function to activate a low pressure suction and reliable double sealer, enabling you to seal even the juiciest of foods without fear.
     • SECRET STORAGE: Hinge your vac sealer open to see that it conveniently houses a full roll of bags (Included for free!) and a simple sliding bag cutter. Flip the sealer over to reveal integrated cord storage hidden in the bottom of the unit.
     • THINK OUTSIDE THE BAG: An added accessory port and hose open the door to sealing specialized canning jar lids, a wide variety of vacuum-ready containers, resealing wine bottles, and more!
     • CUSTOMER PROMISE: Designed in San Francisco, CA with a 5 year . Anova delivers thousands of sous vide recipes for free in the Anova App, created for cooks of every skill level by award-winning chefs and home cooks alike. The numbers speak for themselves – with over 60 million units sold to date and half a million #Anovafoodnerds worldwide, you could say people love cooking with Anova.
     • Modes:Vacuum & Seal,Moist,Dr ,Seal,Pulse Vacuum,External Pulse Vacuum
     Amazon

     $ 126.00 -19%

Ready to Seal the Deal?

After spending some quality time with the Potane VS5736, I have to say I'm pretty impressed. It's a robust, user-friendly machine that delivers on its promise of keeping food fresher for longer. The thoughtful design touches like the built-in bag storage and cutter, combined with its strong sealing performance and that excellent 5-year warranty, make it a really compelling option in its price range. If you're looking to reduce food waste, save money by buying in bulk, or get serious about meal prepping or sous vide, this vacuum sealer is definitely worth a serious look.