The most common question we get asked at Best Home Preserving is “What is the best dehydrator for jerky”? After all, jerky is one of the tastiest and healthiest snacks you can lay your hands on, especially when it is home made.
Not just that, when you make jerky in a dehydrator at home you have a delicious protein source to take with you on busy days that isn’t full of additives and preservatives.
Food dehydration, which works by eliminating moisture from food, is a trusted home food preservation method that significantly increases the shelf-life of foods. It eliminates one of the most critical materials for bacterial growth – moisture. Plus, dehydrated foods simply make great snacks.
While you can dry many foods by simply hanging them in sunlight, using a home food dehydrator gives you a faster, more hygienic, and generally better result. It allows you to select the temperature specifically for jerky as well as beef jerky dehydrator time.
So, if you are looking for a specific machine but have no idea which is the best dehydrator for jerky, don’t worry!
Here is our list of expertly reviewed 5 Best Dehydrators, along with their features and drawbacks.
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Our 6 Best Dehydrators for Jerky
Best Overall Dehydrator For Jerky – Tribest Sedona Combo
Tribest Sedona Combo
Want to be a pro at dehydrating jerky then look no further than this magnificent electric dehydrator.
With a smart design and BPA-free materials, you are sure to make delicious jerky for the whole family to enjoy.
You are here because you want to find the best dehydrator for jerky on the market.
Well, look no further as the Tribest Sedona Combo Food Dehydrator is the best there is.
High-end features include a Two-State Sequential Temperature Timer (TST).
This starts the unit in “fast” mode then automatically switches to “raw” mode toward the end of drying.
A computerized digital display, glass door, and internal LED lights make for easy operating and 9 BPA-free plastic trays give huge capacity.
Another stand-out feature is a divider tray to separate the unit into upper and lower sections. This allows the user to program options for both areas.
Dual fans and a digital thermostat make this the best dehydrator for jerky with great air circulation giving even drying.
Select the night mode for quiet operation.
Multiple vents facilitate airflow and the unit includes a dishwasher-safe debris tray for easy cleaning.
Tribest Sedona Combo Food Dehydrator is our #1 dehydrator for making jerky at home.
[i2pc][i2pros]Easy operating system.
Whisper-quiet operation.
Dual fan technology increases efficiency.
Easy clean-up.
Multiple programmable options.
9 trays make for a large capacity.
[/i2pros][i2cons]Expensive
Comparatively slower dehydrating time.
[/i2cons][/i2pc]
Best Seller Dehydrator For Jerky – Cosori Premium
Cosori Premium food Dehydrator
An all-rounder best seller for not just dehydrating jerky but all other types of food.
This machine has an array of features and is fairly easy to use. A great addition to any home preservers’ kitchen.
The Cosori Food Dehydrator Machine is not only one of the best dehydrators for beef jerky, it is great to dry any other food.
With a 4.8-star rating from many Amazon reviews, it was difficult to find any negatives about this nifty home appliance.
It is easy to use and comes with an extensive operation manual as well as a mesh screen and a fruit roll sheet.
As an added bonus this is the only home food dehydrator on our list to come with a recipe book.
In it are 50 chef-inspired delights to create.
This dehydrator’s timer can be set in 30-minute increments for up to 48 hours.
The simple digital control panel allows for accurate temperature adjustments between 95 to 165 degrees.
With the motor situated at the rear of the unit, a powerful fan forces air evenly around the unit.
This allows for even drying across all trays and negates the need for tray rotation.
Auto shutoff once the drying process is completed to save energy and an overheat protection switch for safety are additional features.
Super quiet operation makes this ideal for every home. With capacity for only 5 trays, you can still dry 3 & ½ to 4 pounds of meat.
The Cosori Premium Food Dehydrator Machine is the top seller on Amazon and Best Dehydrator For Beef Jerky.
[i2pc][i2pros]Stainless steel construction.
Glassdoor for easy visibility.
Digital control panel for ease of use.
It can be set for use up to 48 hours.
50 recipes from chefs specifically for beginners included.
Rear-mounted, internal fan means even drying without tray rotation.
Overheat shut-off.
Dishwasher-safe trays.
[/i2pros][i2cons]It has limited capacity.
No liner on the bottom tray.
[/i2cons][/i2pc]
Best Budget Dehydrator For Jerky- Nesco Snackmaster Pro
Nesco Snackmaster Pro
If you are wanting a food dehydrator to make jerky but do not want to spend hundreds of dollars then this machine is for you.
It still has many features that the higher quality machines have for a fraction of the cost.
The Nesco Snackmaster Pro Food Dehydrator deserves its place in our list of best dehydrators for jerky due to its simple functions and fantastic results.
It has 600 watts of power to remove all the moisture in your meats without any trouble.
The thermostat can be adjusted to suit your specific needs for any type of jerky.
Operation is fast and easy so with up to 12 trays, there is enough room for large quantities of jerky.
The amazing unit will self-adjust its drying pressure according to the number of trays used.
Its top-mounted fan and patented Converga-Flow system increase drying speed.
The system also prevents flavors from mixing and eliminates the need for tray rotation.
Air flows down the chambers and across trays before converging in the center for faster, more even drying.
Furthermore, the unit’s opaque Vita-Save exterior protects from light to retain flavor and the nutritional value of food.
It comes with a detailed instruction guide, adjustable thermostat and programmable digital timer (up to 48 hours).
Cleaning is a breeze with the fan at the top of the unit and removable trays for easy washing.
The Nesco Snackmaster Pro Food Dehydrator is our best budget dehydrator for jerky.
[i2pc][i2pros]Opaque Vita-Save exterior blocks potentially harmful light.
Reasonably priced.
Adjustable temperature and drying options.
Can handle up to 12 trays at a time.
Powerful, top-mounted fan.
Patented drying system.
[/i2pros][i2cons]Plastic trays.
Temperature only goes to 160 F.
It does not come with a timer.
Operation is slightly noisy.
[/i2cons][/i2pc]
Best Large Dehydrator For Jerky –Excalibur 9-Tray
Excalibur 9-Tray
If you are looking at making a large batch of jerky or any other dehydrated food then getting a large size machine is definitely something for you.
This square design makes it easy to batch dehydrate all kinds of food.
The Excalibur 9-Tray Food Dehydrator is another product that easily ranks as one of the best dehydrators for jerky.
The size and higher price point may be seen as disadvantages however, these two features are easily compensated for.
A bigger size means super capacity for easily making large quantities of jerky. We also think the price is justifiable due to its powerful features.
This nifty unit has 440 watts of energy, which powers its adjustable thermostat between 105 and 16 degrees.
It is also capable of 26-hour continuous usage and a low drying temperature retains precious nutrients.
Its operation is easy and removable trays can even be used for bulky items or to raise the dough.
With a 5-year manufacturer’s warranty, the Excalibur 9-Tray Food Dehydrator is the best dehydrator for jerky, especially for large quantities.
[i2pc][i2pros]Extra large capacity.
Easy to use and maintain.
Faster drying, Hyperwave technology for accurate even drying.
No need for tray rotation
[/i2pros][i2cons]Takes a lot of storage space.
The higher price may not be affordable for everybody.
[/i2cons][/i2pc]
Best For Beginners – Presto Dehydro Food Dehydrator For Jerky
Presto Dehydro Food Dehydrator
If you are just a beginner with dehydrating jerky then don’t complicate things with fancy dehydrating machines.
Just keep it simple with this basic food dehydrator while at the same time still getting a quality product.
The Presto Dehydro Food Dehydrator is the most affordable on this list of best dehydrators for jerky.
With a 600 watt motor, this powerful dehydrator gives impressive results for drying jerky in a dehydrator. In fact, our team of experts has named this the beginner’s dream best dehydrator for jerky.
With 4 drying trays and a capacity to accommodate 4 more, the Presto unit has plenty of drying capacity.
It has bottom-mounted fans and heating elements to uniformly dry food. In fact, there is never a need to rotate your trays.
Something we love about this dehydrator is that the unit is easy to operate with very few settings. Furthermore, a power light indicates when the unit is plugged in.
Having a pre-set temperature of 165 degrees means you don’t have to worry about getting the temperature right.
Storage and clean-up are simple with cords stored in the base of the unit. All trays can be nested and are dishwasher safe.
In saying all that it is quite clear to see why the Presto Dehydro Food Dehydrator is the most affordable of the best dehydrators for jerky.
[i2pc][i2pros]Increased drying capacity.
Easy to operate and maintain.
Uniform heating.
Dishwasher safe.
[/i2pros][i2cons]The temperature is difficult to adjust.
It does not have a timer.
Noisy operation.
[/i2cons][/i2pc]
Best Value Dehydrator For Jerky – Hamilton Beach Digital
Hamilton Beach Digital Food Dehydrator
If you are a real value for money person then this dehydrator will tick all your boxes.
A perfect mix of quality and functionality for a reasonable cost will make sure you have delicious jerky without breaking the bank.
Built with some interesting functions, the 500 watts Hamilton Beach Digital Dehydrator makes dehydrating jerky a wholesome experience.
These features include an adjustable thermostat up to 160 degrees and an automatic shutdown timer.
The timing can be set up to 48 hours, and these allow this nifty machine in our list of best dehydrators for jerky.
While the vertical airflow may not perform as great as the earlier mentions, the affordable price tag makes it a great buy nonetheless.
When it comes to Value it is clear that the Hamilton Beach Digital Food Dehydrator is on the list of best dehydrators for jerky as it provides terrific value for money.
[i2pc][i2pros]Has adjustable time and temperature control
Inexpensive
Has a digital dial that makes it easy to use
Trays are easy to clean
Includes drying tips
Electricity economical
[/i2pros][i2cons]For some user find it a bit noisy
[/i2cons][/i2pc]
VIVOHOME Electric 400W 5 Trays Food Dehydrator
Material: Stainless Steel, Plastic
Item Dimensions: 12.5 x 9.5 x 9.8 inches
VIVOHOME dehydrator is equipped with 400W of drying power, ensuring that your food will be dried quickly and efficiently.
The excellent craftsmanship means that this dehydrator operates smoothly and with a 97% vitamin and mineral retention rate, preserving the original flavors of your food.
With adjustable timer and temperature functions, you can choose the optimal time and temperature depending on the ingredients.
The drying temperature can be set from 95℉-158℉(35℃-70℃), while the time can be set from 0-24 hours.
A hot air fan will automatically switch on and off to balance the temperature, so you never have to worry about making a mess again.
This powerful dehydrator has 5 large drying racks that can hold most food items, so you can create evenly dried snacks with ease.
Plus, the 5 trays provide plenty of space to classify different foods and increase your productivity.
The digital LED display screen helps you time and control the temperature so that your snacks come out just the way you like them.
The sturdy stainless-steel base and premium plastic trays are free of BPA, making them a healthier option for you and your family.
This top-quality dehydrator is perfect for drying all kinds of meat. The detachable design and dishwasher-safe trays make it easy and convenient to clean and store.
So, VIVOHOME makes it one of the best dehydrators for jerky.
[i2pc][i2pros]Compact, easy to use and clean
Square shape as it fits better on the counter
All the trays are made of durable clear plastic
It is relatively quiet
Comes with five trays and instructions on how to prep your foods for optimal performance. Instructions are self-explanatory
400W of drying power ensures quick and efficient dehydration
97% vitamin and mineral retention rate
Adjustable timer and temperature functions
Hot air fan automatically balances temperature
5 large drying racks can hold most food items
Digital LED display screen helps time and control temperature
Sturdy stainless-steel base and premium plastic trays are free of BPA
[/i2pros][i2cons]
The bottom of the device is a bit complicated to clean
[/i2cons][/i2pc]
Nesco FD-28JX JerkyXpress Food Dehydrator
Material: Plastic
Item Dimensions: 13.5 x 13.5 x 9.5 inches
Get the most out of your jerky with the Nesco FD-28JX JerkyXpress Food Dehydrator.
With four trays and the ability to expand to seven, you can dry large quantities at once without having to rotate the trays.
And because it’s from Nesco, you know it’s a quality product that will help you create delicious, healthy jerky.
This dehydrator features a detachable top-mounted powerhead with fixed temperature control, ensuring that your jerky comes out perfectly every time.
Plus, the fixed temperature control eliminates the guesswork involved in finding the optimal drying temperature.
This powerful dehydrator has 350 watts of drying power to provide even heat distribution, ensuring that your jerky comes out consistently every time.
Plus, JerkyXpress’s simple design makes it easy to use, so you’ll be able to get started right away.
Whether you’re a hobbyist or a pro, the Nesco FD-28JX JerkyXpress Food Dehydrator is the perfect tool for making delicious homemade jerky.
[i2pc][i2pros]Light weight
Cleaning up is pretty easy
Four trays with the ability to expand to seven
Top-mounted powerhead with fixed temperature control
Fixed temperature control eliminates guesswork
350 watts of drying power for even heat distribution
Simple design is easy to use
Worth for money
[/i2pros][i2cons]
A bit noisy. Not quite as loud as a blender, but at least as loud as the stove vent fan
[/i2cons][/i2pc]
Nesco 075 FD-1018A Gardenmaster Pro Food Dehydrator
Material: Plastic
Item Dimensions: 17 x 15.5 x 14 inches
The Gardenmaster Pro is the perfect dehydrator for jerky.
With 1000 watts of drying power, it provides even heat distribution for consistent results.
You’ll love the convenience and benefits this professional-grade appliance offers.
With adjustable temperatures between 95°F and 160°F, you can make sure your jerky is perfectly dried every time.
Plus, the 10-tray system means you can dry large quantities at once, making this the perfect dehydrator for jerky.
This top-of-the-line model comes with 8 dishwasher-safe trays, allowing you to dry large quantities at once.
Plus, there’s no tray rotation needed so you can focus on other things. Additional trays are sold separately.
Featuring innovative Converga-Flow drying technology, this dehydrator ensures even and efficient drying of your food.
With no need to rotate the trays, it’s easy and convenient to use.
Gardenmaster Pro comes with 8 fruit roll-up sheets, 8 clean-a-screens, 1 recipe instruction book, and 1 original jerky spice pack with cure.
It’s perfect for hobbyists or pros who want to create the best jerky possible.
[i2pc][i2pros]It is affordable
Simplest to use and maintain.
Controls are very easy
Very versatile and expandable dehydrator
1000 watts of drying power for even heat distribution
Adjustable temperatures between 95°F and 160°F
10-tray system
8 dishwasher-safe trays
Converga-Flow drying technology ensures even and efficient drying
Includes a set of recommended methods & charts for various fruits, vegetables & even meats, including average times & precise temps.
[/i2pros][i2cons]
The trays on this one don’t sit flush with the base until you put about 4 full trays on it.
[/i2cons][/i2pc]
COSORI Food Dehydrator for Jerky
Item Dimensions: 12 x 12 x 9 inches
Have you ever bitten into a piece of jerky and been disappointed by the toughness or blandness?
With COSORI’s Food Dehydrator for Jerky, you can make your own delicious, succulent jerky with ease.
Featuring an easy-to-clean base and dishwasher-safe trays, this dehydrator is hassle-free and simple to keep clean.
Make your favorite snack with little effort using the COSORI Food Dehydrator for Jerky.
The COSORI Food Dehydrator for Jerky has a one-touch digital control panel that sets the temperature from 95°–165°F and timer for up to 48 hours.
Whether you are using your dehydrator to make beef, chicken, or turkey jerky, the precise temperature control will help ensure that your jerky is done evenly and consistently each time.
Plus, with its compact size, the dehydrator is perfect for small kitchens or apartments.
With noise levels less than 47dB, it won’t disturb you while you’re asleep or trying to concentrate in the kitchen.
Plus, its timer allows you to set it and forget it, so you can go about your day knowing your food is being dried perfectly.
This appliance is designed with safety in mind, featuring overheat protection to keep things cool. Plus, it’s easy to use – just plug it in and get started!
With adjustable tray height, this dehydrator can accommodate a variety of food sizes and shapes, making it the perfect tool for creating your favorite dried snacks.
This dehydrator comes with a free recipe book that will help you get started, and it also includes lifetime assistance from its Customer Support Team.
With a 4.8/5 rating on Amazon, COSORI Food Dehydrator is one of the best dehydrators for jerky on the market today!
[i2pc][i2pros]6 shelves is a sufficient size for 3 and 1/2 to 4 lbs of meat
See it all thru the glass door
2 adjustable heights
Touch-Control LED Display
Easy to operate with digital buttons that set temperature/time.
Stainless steel, dishwasher safe, and easy to clean trays
Automatic Shutoff
Overheat Protection
Comes with an instruction booklet and a recipe book for jerkies
The build is quality and has a large capacity
The smaller size fits nicely on the counter
[/i2pros][i2cons]
Sharp metal edges on ends of racks
No on/off button, so you have to plug/unplug the cord from the outlet.
[/i2cons][/i2pc]
Elechomes Upgraded 6-Tray
Material: Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene
Item Dimensions: 11 x 11 x 11 inches
The Elechomes food dehydrator machine is ideal for food preservation like beef jerky, fruits, and veggies.
Make non-addition fruit rolls for your children with a free fruit roll sheet.
It has 6 stackable BPA-FREE trays with 2 adjustable levels, allowing you to make a range of dried meals at once.
Clear trays allow you to observe the procedure without taking out the trays (Diameter 260mm/10.2 inches, Max Height: 27mm /1.0
With a digital thermostat and timer, you can easily adjust the temperature and time to get your food just right.
Plus, with a countdown timer, you’ll know exactly when your food will be done.
All 6 trays are removable and dishwasher safe, making it a breeze to keep your dehydrator clean.
It comes with a mesh screen and a fruit roll sheet to make drying your jerky easy and mess-free.
Plus, it has a worry-free 18-month maintenance and friendly customer service.
Elechomes food dehydrator is one of the best dehydrators for jerky.
The natural air-drying process draws out the moisture from your food, keeping it fresh for a long time while retaining its original flavor.
[i2pc][i2pros]Very easy to use
Easy to clean
Directions are extremely clear
Great for beginners
Automatic shut off
Very convenient to set the time and temperature as desired.
Has an instruction manual that has a table with suggested setting for various food types
racks are removable, can be adjusted, and are dishwasher safe
Can make 2lbs of beef jerky in just 4 hours
Price isn’t high, but value is top shelf
[/i2pros][i2cons]
A user suggests to rotate the trays periodically
A bit noisy for some users
[/i2cons][/i2pc]
Magic Mill Food Dehydrator For Jerky
Material: Stainless Steel
Item Dimensions: 13 x 9.7 x 9.15 inches
This 240W drying capacity offers an efficient food drying process, removing excess water from foods without compromising their natural juices, taste, and nutrients – boasting a 97% retention rate of vitamins and minerals.
Magic Mill Food dehydrator features premium stainless steel trays that are safe to use and will not corrode over time.
The body is made from BPA-free plastic that is both durable and corrosion-resistant, while the base is made from stylish stainless steel.
You can set a timer as well as change the temperature with just a few clicks on the control panel.
It can be set between 95-158°F for up to 24:00 hours in half-hour steps depending on your food dehydration demands.
To clean, simply remove the trays from the device and soak them in soapy water or run them through the dishwasher.
Thus, it’s one of the best dehydrators for jerky on the market.
[i2pc][i2pros]Easy to operate and user-friendly
Lightweight and compact design
Removable trays make it easy to clean
Timer and temperature can be easily set
Stainless steel body is stylish and durable
Multi-layer and adjustable trays
[/i2pros][i2cons]
Some users find it a bit small
[/i2cons][/i2pc]
Conclusion
If you love eating great-tasting and healthy jerky, you know how essential a good dehydrator is. This easy review article makes choosing the best dehydrator for jerky an absolute breeze.
If you want to find out more about home food dehydrators read our best food dehydrator review page and our top vegetable dehydrators.
Hi! I’m Sally-Anne!
Great article.