Why spend more on store-bought dried snacks when you can make better ones at home? A food dehydrator lets you turn fruit, meat, or herbs into healthy snacks without added sugar or preservatives. Most ovens do not go low enough for proper drying, and air fryers mostly overcook. That is why dehydrators matter a lot because they do one job and do it right. But the question remains: Which one should you choose? We compared models with different sizes and features in detail to help you find what fits your kitchen best.
Types of Dehydrators
There are two common types of dehydrators, Vertical flow dehydrators and Horizontal flow dehydrators.
Vertical Flow Dehydrators (Stackable dehydrators)
Vertical dehydrators consist of multiple trays that can be stacked vertically on top of each other to increase the drying area. We can add more trays over time and have a fan mounted at the base to push warm air upward through the trays.
These models are compact, easy to store, and have low upfront costs. Nesco models are one of the most recognized stackable models. However, there are also some cons like uneven drying especially with large batches. They require tray rotation for good results.
Best for: Drying herbs or small fruit batches, beginners, and small households.
Horizontal Flow Dehydrators (Shelf tray dehydrators)
Horizontal dehydrators have a fixed shape like the box and have trays that slide in and out. Loading and unloading trays is easy because you do not need to open or disassemble anything.
They have a fan placed which distributes warm air evenly across every tray from side to side.
Their design helps for consistent drying results without needing to rotate trays. But they are high in cost, heavy in size, and take up more space. Septree FDDSC-06B dehydrator is a standout shelf tray model.
Best for: Heavy users, jerky makers, and drying food regularly in bulk.
Our Top Picks
Nesco FD-75A
Pros: Quickly starts heating, Adjustable temperature settings, Outer remains cool, easy to clean
Cons: Louder fan, Cannot see inside
Nesco FD-75A is a go-to for many users due to its reliable performance and flexible capacity. This model comes with 4 trays and expands up to 20 trays at a time. Plastic trays are BPA-free and dishwasher-safe. Having features like an adjustable thermostat, a digital display, a top-mounted fan, and a 24-hour drying timer. This model has a temperature range from 90 to160°F, even its top temperature. Accessories include 1 Fruit Roll Sheet, 1 Clean-A-Screen, a sample of Jerky seasoning and cure, and a 52-page book.
Details: Power Wattage: 1000W / Temperature: 95 to 160°F/ Airflow: Vertical / Material: Plastic / Trays: 4 (expandable: 20 trays) / Timer: up to 48 hours
Septree FDDSC-06B (Shop here)
Pros: Quiet operation, Transparent door, All-metal body, Even drying, Shut off automatically.
Cons: Not expandable
Septree 6-tray dehydrator is great for users who prefer quiet operation and a durable build. This model comes with 6 removable stainless steel trays and a clear glass door to check progress without opening. The dual rear fans push hot air evenly across all trays. Temperature settings are adjustable through an LED digital control panel and shut off automatically when the set timer ends. The trays, mesh screen, and drip tray are all easy to clean. Also, built-in overheat protection is included. Accessories include 6 trays, 2 mats, 2 containers, 2 sets of silicone gloves, 1 mesh screen, 1 drip tray, 1 recipe book, and 1 manual.
Details: Power Wattage: 500W / Temperature: 95 to 190°F / Airflow: Horizontal with dual rear fans / Material: Stainless steel / Trays: 6 (non-expandable) / Timer: up to 24 hours / Working Frequency: 60 Hz /
Septree DSC-04A
Pros: Quiet fan, See-through door, Stainless steel trays, Easy to clean, Dishwasher safe, With a gift box
Cons: Cannot add extra trays
Septree 4-tray mini food dehydrator is a solid option for small batch drying and is made with stainless steel inside and out. This model comes with four 304 stainless steel trays, a drip tray, and a clear door so you can check food without opening it. The trays are BPA-free and dishwasher-safe. Having features like a temperature range from 70 to 190°F, a digital control panel and a rear fan for even drying means no need for tray rotation. Best suitable for home users for drying small batches of fruits, vegetables, herbs, or jerky. This model runs quietly and doesn’t take up much space. Accessories include 4 stainless steel trays, 2 non-stick silicone sheets, 2 storage containers, 2 silicone gloves,1 recipe book, and a user manual.
Details: Power Wattage: 400W / Temperature: 70 to 190°F / Airflow: Horizontal (rear fan) / Material: Stainless steel (body + trays) / Trays: 4 non-expandable / Noise level: ≤48dB / Weight: 6.85 Pounds /
Septree DBC-10C
Pros: Stainless steel body, Accurate digital touch control, Quiet fan, Easy to clean
Cons: Non-expandable
Septree DBC-10C dehydrator stands out for its large capacity and 304 food-grade stainless steel durability. This model comes with 10 trays (12.5 x 12.5 inches each) which gives you 8.8 ft² of drying space for jerky, fruit, herbs, or yogurt. This model has features like a digital touch panel that offers temp control from 68 to 194°F and a 24-hour timer. The touch menu remembers your last time and temperature settings for making repeat batches simple and operates quietly at 45–50 dB. Accessories include 10 silicone sheets, 2 fruit roll sheets, 1 hanger, 10 hooks, 2 storage boxes, a drip tray, gloves, a user manual, and a recipe book.
Details:
Power Wattage: 800W / Temperature: 68 to 194°F / Airflow: Horizontal / Material: Stainless Steel / Trays: 10 / Timer: up to 24 hours / Dimensions: 17.4 x 13.9 x 17.17 in / Weight: 29 pounds / Noise level: 40-50 dB /
Tribest Sedona Express
Pros: Precise temperature control, Low noise, Internal LED light, Compact capacity, Adjustable temperature
Cons: High price, Smaller tray size than expected
Tribest Sedona Express is a choice for users who want quiet drying and precise control. This model comes with 11 trays that slide in easily and do not need rotation. It has a digital control panel, a single-fan system, and a two-stage timer. The temperature range goes from 77 to 167°F which works well for raw foods or jerky. The glass door and internal light help check drying without opening the dehydrator. A washable air filter keeps airflow clean. Accessories include 11 drying trays, 1 drip tray, and a washable air filter.
Details: Power Wattage: 470 W / Temperature: 77 to 167°F / Airflow: Horizontal / Material: Alloy Steel/ Trays: 11 / Timer: 120 hours max / Weight: 21 pounds /
Conclusion
Every model on this list works well, but the right one depends on what and how much you plan to dry. Regardless of whether you want to dry a few apple slices or prep jerky in bulk, take an estimate about your space, batch size, and how often you will use it. A good dehydrator should fit your needs, not the other way around.
Click here to shop for more Septree dehydrators!
You may want to read. ↓
- The Best Food Dehydrators for Home Use: Top Picks for Every Budget
- Comparing Dehydrators: What to Look for When Purchasing Your First Unit
- The Good Dehydrator for Jerky | Top 6 Septree Models for 2025
- Must-Have Food Dehydrators for Moms at Home
- Choosing Between Plastic and Stainless Steel Dehydrators