If you’re buying meat slicer online, whether for home or commercial use, there are a few things to consider before making a purchase. While it can be tempting to go for the slicer with the lowest price tag, there are several factors that can impact the overall value and performance of your machine.
Ten things to keep in mind before buying a meat slicer online
Blade size
The size of the blade on a meat slicer will determine the thickness of the cuts you can make. For home use, a blade size of 7-9 inches is typically sufficient, while commercial slicers may have larger blades. Consider the types of meats you’ll be slicing and how thick you prefer your cuts before selecting a blade size.
Blade material
Blades can be made from several materials, including stainless steel and carbon steel. Stainless steel is generally more durable and resistant to rust, but may not hold an edge as well as carbon steel. Consider the frequency of use and maintenance requirements when selecting a blade material.
Motor power
The power of the motor will impact the speed and efficiency of your meat slicer. For home use, a motor with 100-150 watts is usually sufficient, while commercial slicers may have more powerful motors. Consider the volume and frequency of use when selecting a motor power.
Ease of cleaning
Meat slicers can be difficult to clean, with many small parts and crevices that can trap food and bacteria. Look for slicers with removable parts that can be easily washed, and consider models with smooth surfaces and minimal crevices to make cleaning easier.
Safety features
Meat slicers can be dangerous if not used properly, with sharp blades and high-speed motors. Look for models with safety features such as blade guards and non-slip feet to minimize the risk of injury.
Noise level
Meat slicers can be quite loud, which can be a concern for home users with sensitive ears or neighbors. Consider the noise level of a slicer before making a purchase, and look for models with noise-reducing features if this is a concern.
Price
Meat slicers can range in price from less than $100 for home models to thousands of dollars for commercial-grade machines. Consider your budget and how frequently you’ll be using the slicer before selecting a model.
Brand reputation
Look for meat slicer brands with a reputation for quality and durability, and read reviews from other customers to get an idea of their experiences with a particular model.
Size and weight
Meat slicers can be quite large and heavy, which can be a concern for home users with limited storage space. Consider the size and weight of a slicer before making a purchase, and look for models that can be easily moved and stored.
Warranty and customer support
Meat slicers can be expensive machines, and it’s important to have a warranty and customer support in case of any issues or malfunctions. Look for slicers with a warranty of at least one year, and consider brands with good customer support to ensure a positive experience.
By carefully considering these ten factors before making a purchase, you can select a meat slicer that meets your needs and provides value and performance for years to come. The blade size and material, motor power, ease of cleaning, safety features, noise level, price, brand reputation, size and weight, and warranty and customer support are all important factors to keep in mind when selecting a meat slicer.
Don’t rush into a purchase without considering all of these factors, as they can greatly impact the overall value and performance of your meat slicer.