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10 Best Jerky Dehydrators 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

COSORI Food Dehydrator for Jerky, 10 Trays, 16.2ft² Drying Space, 165°F Temperature Control, 48H Timer, 1000W Dehydrator Machine, Stainless Steel, for Herbs, Fruit, Meat, and Yogurt, Silver

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,416
Capacity
Temperature Control
Ease of Cleaning

Most important from
22883 reviews

Capacity
The 176°F temperature control ensures that the treats are dehydrated perfectly, and the 5 stainless steel trays provide plenty of space.
Temperature Control
The 176°F temperature control ensures that the treats are dehydrated perfectly, and the 5 stainless steel trays provide plenty of space.
Ease of Cleaning
Sleek, modern design and very easy to clean.
Noise Level
Works great and is very easy to operate. Runs very quietly, which was a pleasant surprise.
Build Quality and Durability
The stainless steel trays don’t retain any odors, and the whole unit is durable and built to last.

The COSORI Food Dehydrator for Jerky stands out in the jerky-dehydrator category due to its spacious capacity and user-friendly features. With 10 trays offering a generous 16.2 ft² drying space, this model is particularly advantageous for large families or individuals who want to prepare significant amounts of jerky or dried snacks at once. It can accommodate up to 21.5 pounds of raw beef, making it efficient for bulk drying. The temperature control ranges from 95°F to 165°F, allowing for precise adjustments, which is essential for creating various dehydrated foods safely, especially jerky.

A notable strength is the rear fan that ensures even airflow and heat distribution, minimizing risks of over-drying or uneven results. The automatic shutdown feature and built-in overheat protection increase safety, especially for those new to using dehydrators. Additionally, the stainless steel build contributes to durability and food safety, as all trays are BPA-free and easy to clean—many of the accessories are dishwasher safe.

Some users may find the noise level to be somewhat noticeable during operation, especially compared to quieter models. While the digital timer is a great feature for convenience, it might be more complicated for those unfamiliar with electronic timers. Potential buyers should consider the noise level and the need for additional accessories.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,416
Capacity
Temperature Control
Ease of Cleaning

Most important from
22883 reviews

Capacity
The 176°F temperature control ensures that the treats are dehydrated perfectly, and the 5 stainless steel trays provide plenty of space.
Temperature Control
The 176°F temperature control ensures that the treats are dehydrated perfectly, and the 5 stainless steel trays provide plenty of space.
Ease of Cleaning
Sleek, modern design and very easy to clean.
Noise Level
Works great and is very easy to operate. Runs very quietly, which was a pleasant surprise.
Build Quality and Durability
The stainless steel trays don’t retain any odors, and the whole unit is durable and built to last.
#2

Magic Mill Pro Food Dehydrator Machine | Powerful 600W Rear Fan Even-Drying System | 7 Full-Size Stainless Steel Trays | 95°-176° Temperature Control, 48H Timer, Keep Warm + Auto Shutoff | ETL Listed

Rating
8.5
Airflow and Heat Distribution
Ease of Cleaning
Noise Level

Most important from
7106 reviews

Airflow and Heat Distribution
Even drying across all trays, eliminating the need for rotation, as long as slices are of uniform thickness.
Ease of Cleaning
Easy to use and easy to clean, delivering consistent results every time.
Noise Level
Quiet operation and decent countertop aesthetics make it a pleasant addition to the kitchen.

The Magic Mill Pro Food Dehydrator Machine is a versatile and robust tool for dehydrating a variety of foods. One of its standout features is the spacious capacity, with 7 stainless steel trays allowing for large batches. This makes it particularly suitable for individuals who like to dehydrate jerky, fruit, vegetables, and herbs in bulk. The rear-mounted fan and airflow circulation technology ensure even heat distribution, eliminating the need to rotate trays, which is a significant convenience.

The digital thermostat and timer with automatic shut-off add precision to the dehydration process, enhancing the user experience. Additionally, the keep warm function is a nice touch for maintaining the temperature of your food after the dehydration cycle. Cleaning is relatively easy since the trays and liners are dishwasher safe, although the main housing requires manual cleaning. The build quality is durable with BPA-free stainless steel, ensuring safety and longevity.

Its high customer rating suggests that it performs reliably and meets expectations. This dehydrator is best suited for home cooks and food enthusiasts looking for an efficient, easy-to-use appliance for a variety of dehydrating needs.

Rating
8.5
Airflow and Heat Distribution
Ease of Cleaning
Noise Level

Most important from
7106 reviews

Airflow and Heat Distribution
Even drying across all trays, eliminating the need for rotation, as long as slices are of uniform thickness.
Ease of Cleaning
Easy to use and easy to clean, delivering consistent results every time.
Noise Level
Quiet operation and decent countertop aesthetics make it a pleasant addition to the kitchen.
#3

Excalibur Electric Food Dehydrator Performance Series 10-Tray with Adjustable Temperature Control Includes Stainless Steel Drying Trays Glass Door Top View Window and LED Display Progress Bar, Black

Rating
8.5
Capacity
Ease of Cleaning
Noise Level

Most important from
4833 reviews

Capacity
The larger size is worth the investment, handling everything from bulk purchases to small batches with ease.
Ease of Cleaning
The racks are easy to clean and fit well in an oversized sink.
Noise Level
Runs quietly, making it a pleasant addition to any kitchen.

The Excalibur Electric Food Dehydrator Performance Series 10-Tray is a versatile and high-capacity jerky dehydrator suitable for both beginners and experienced users. Its 16 sq. ft. drying space and 10 stainless steel trays make it ideal for large batches of food, whether you're dehydrating meat, fruits, or herbs. The adjustable temperature range of 85°-165°F and up to 80-hour timer provide flexibility and precision in drying various types of food.

The Hyperwave and Paralexx technologies ensure even heat distribution and consistent air circulation, which are crucial for effective dehydration. The LED touchscreen and progress bar make it user-friendly, allowing for easy control and monitoring of the dehydration process. The glass door and top viewing window add convenience by letting you check on your food without opening the machine and disrupting the drying environment.

At 26.9 pounds, the dehydrator is relatively heavy, which might make it less portable. It's also not dishwasher safe, which could make cleaning a bit more labor-intensive. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Excalibur Electric Food Dehydrator offers excellent performance, making it a strong contender for anyone serious about dehydrating large quantities of food efficiently.

Rating
8.5
Capacity
Ease of Cleaning
Noise Level

Most important from
4833 reviews

Capacity
The larger size is worth the investment, handling everything from bulk purchases to small batches with ease.
Ease of Cleaning
The racks are easy to clean and fit well in an oversized sink.
Noise Level
Runs quietly, making it a pleasant addition to any kitchen.

Buying Guide for the Best Jerky Dehydrators

Choosing the right jerky dehydrator can make a big difference in the quality and efficiency of your jerky-making process. A good dehydrator will evenly dry your meat, preserving its flavor and texture. When selecting a jerky dehydrator, consider the following key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs.
CapacityCapacity refers to the amount of food that the dehydrator can hold at one time. This is important because it determines how much jerky you can make in a single batch. Dehydrators come in various sizes, from small models that can handle a few pounds of meat to large ones that can process several pounds at once. If you plan to make jerky occasionally or in small quantities, a smaller capacity may suffice. However, if you intend to make large batches or use the dehydrator frequently, a larger capacity will be more efficient and convenient.
Airflow and Heat DistributionAirflow and heat distribution are crucial for even drying. A dehydrator with good airflow and heat distribution will ensure that all pieces of meat dry uniformly, preventing some pieces from being over-dried while others remain under-dried. There are two main types of airflow systems: horizontal and vertical. Horizontal airflow systems, often found in shelf-style dehydrators, provide more even drying and are generally preferred for making jerky. Vertical airflow systems, found in stackable dehydrators, can be less consistent but are often more compact. Choose a dehydrator with a reliable airflow system to ensure consistent results.
Temperature ControlTemperature control allows you to set and maintain the ideal drying temperature for your jerky. This is important because different types of meat require different drying temperatures to ensure they are safe to eat and have the best texture. Look for a dehydrator with an adjustable thermostat that can reach at least 160°F, which is the recommended temperature for safely drying meat. Some models also offer digital controls for more precise temperature settings. If you plan to dehydrate a variety of foods in addition to jerky, a wider temperature range will provide more versatility.
Ease of CleaningEase of cleaning is an important consideration because dehydrating meat can be a messy process. Look for a dehydrator with removable trays and components that are dishwasher safe or easy to clean by hand. Non-stick surfaces can also help prevent meat from sticking and make cleanup easier. If you plan to use your dehydrator frequently, choosing a model that is easy to clean will save you time and effort in the long run.
Noise LevelNoise level refers to how loud the dehydrator is when it is running. This is important if you plan to use the dehydrator in a shared living space or overnight. Some dehydrators can be quite noisy, which can be disruptive. Look for models that are specifically noted for their quiet operation if noise is a concern for you. Reading user reviews can also give you an idea of how loud a particular model is.
Build Quality and DurabilityBuild quality and durability refer to how well the dehydrator is constructed and how long it is likely to last. A well-built dehydrator made from high-quality materials will be more durable and provide better performance over time. Look for models with sturdy construction, preferably with metal components rather than plastic, as they tend to be more durable. Checking user reviews and ratings can also give you insight into the reliability and longevity of a particular model.

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