You can spend more for a vacuum sealer, but you don't need to. The wet setting works well making sure the bag seals even if some liquid is being drawn out. The removable catch tray is very handy for cleanup. It is hard to close because of how tight it seals/presses on the bag so pressing on the outside edges rather than in the middle is probably a good idea. I like that it stands on its side so that it takes up a lot less space when being stored.

I've been using FoodSaver products for over a decade. This model, for the size, is easily the best unit I've owned. It seems to have a slightly wider seal, it is designed to be more efficient with the bags. Recommended!

The design is superior to most in the sub-$100 price range and it works exceedingly well. It is true that it requires some force in the right place to close it. If you place the fleshy part of your palm below your thumb (the thenar eminence) on top and then grip the bottom with your fingers it is not hard to close. It's a matter of technique. If you place the unit on a table and try to close it with your fingers you will have a very hard time. You need that level of force in order to generate an effective seal. Apart from that, which is common to most effective vacuum sealers of this size, the unit is easy to use. I bought this unit after returning a $41 unit the same day I received it due to poor manufacturing and inconsistent performance.