Chamber Vacuum Sealer vs FoodSaver-Type Sealer: Which Bags Work With Which Machine?
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Buying the wrong vacuum bag is one of the most common mistakes we see. Chamber vacuum sealers and FoodSaver-type sealers use different bags, and the two are not interchangeable. This guide explains why and how to choose.
A 60-second decision guide
Step 1. What kind of machine do you have?
- A countertop machine that clamps the open end of the bag and pulls the air out through a nozzle (FoodSaver, Seal-a-Meal and similar) is an external, or suction-style, sealer. Go to Step 2A.
- A machine that lowers the whole bag into a sealed chamber before removing the air is a chamber sealer. Go to Step 2B.
Step 2A. External sealer: use embossed bags or rolls. Choose pint, quart or gallon bags, or rolls you cut to length.
Step 2B. Chamber sealer: use smooth chamber pouches in 3, 4 or 5 mil.
How the two machines work
A chamber vacuum sealer removes the air from the whole chamber around the pouch, then seals the pouch. A FoodSaver-type sealer pulls the air out of the open end of a bag. That is why the bags are made differently.
How the bags differ
| Feature | Chamber vacuum sealer | External FoodSaver-type sealer |
|---|---|---|
| How air is removed | From the whole chamber around the pouch | Through the open end of the bag |
| Bag style | Smooth chamber pouches | Embossed bags and rolls with textured channels |
| Bag surface | Smooth. The chamber removes air from all around the pouch, so no channels are needed. | Textured. The raised channels give air a path toward the sealing strip and the nozzle. |
| Typical use | Restaurants, commercial kitchens, food processing, sous vide, high-volume packaging | Home food storage, freezing, meal prep |
| Where to shop | Commercial chamber pouches | Home bags and rolls |
What does "not for FoodSaver-type machines" mean?
Our chamber pouches carry that note because they are smooth. A suction-style sealer needs the textured channels of an embossed bag to pull the air out, so smooth pouches generally will not seal correctly on those machines. Embossed bags are made for FoodSaver, Weston and MagicVac style sealers. As with any equipment, compatibility can vary by brand and model, so check your manufacturer's specifications before you buy in bulk.
Choosing for a chamber sealer
- Thickness: our chamber pouches come in 3, 4 and 5 mil. See how to choose.
- Size: pick a pouch that holds the product with a little room above it for the seal, and check that it fits your chamber and seal bar.
Choosing for a FoodSaver-type sealer
Choose embossed bags by size, or rolls that you cut to length. Our home-use bags and rolls are made of BPA-free nylon and polyethylene, are USDA approved, and are suitable for freezing and boiling.
Common mistakes
- Buying chamber pouches for a suction-style sealer, or the reverse.
- Ordering a pouch too small for the product.
- Buying a full case of a size before you have tested one.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use embossed bags in a chamber sealer?
Embossed bags are made for suction-style machines. Contact us before using them in a chamber machine so we can help you choose.
Which bag do I need?
Tell us your machine and what you pack through our contact page. See also our FAQ.
Shop the right bag
Shop chamber vacuum pouches or home vacuum bags and rolls. Choosing a machine? Read our chamber vacuum sealer buying guide.