When it comes to food preservation, dehydrators have become an essential appliance for many households. Two popular models that often get compared are the Magic Mill MFD-7070 and the NESCO FD-1018A. In this in-depth comparison, we'll delve into the features, performance, and value of these two dehydrators to help you decide which one is best suited for your needs.

Design and Build

The Magic Mill MFD-7070 has a stainless steel body with a compact design, making it perfect for small kitchens or countertops. It measures 12.2 x 11.4 x 7.8 inches and weighs around 13 pounds. The NESCO FD-1018A, on the other hand, has a slightly larger footprint at 14.5 x 13.5 x 10.5 inches and weighs approximately 15 pounds. While both models are sturdy and well-built, the Magic Mill's compact design gives it a slight edge in terms of portability.

Dehydrating Performance

Both dehydrators use horizontal air flow technology to dry food evenly and efficiently. The Magic Mill MFD-7070 has seven trays, allowing for a total drying area of 11 square feet. It also features a digital temperature control system that ranges from 95°F to 155°F, making it suitable for a wide range of dehydrating tasks, including fruits, vegetables, meats, and herbs. The NESCO FD-1018A, on the other hand, has eight trays with a total drying area of 12 square feet. Its temperature control system ranges from 100°F to 155°F, which is slightly narrower than the Magic Mill's range.

In terms of dehydrating performance, both models deliver excellent results. However, the Magic Mill MFD-7070 seems to have a slight advantage when it comes to drying delicate foods like herbs and flowers, thanks to its lower temperature settings. The NESCO FD-1018A, on the other hand, excels at dehydrating meats and tougher vegetables due to its higher temperature capabilities.

Additional Features

The Magic Mill MFD-7070 comes with a few additional features that set it apart from the competition. It has an automatic shut-off timer that can be set up to 24 hours, allowing for unattended dehydrating sessions. It also includes a fruit leather tray and a mesh screen for drying small items like nuts or seeds. The NESCO FD-1018A, while lacking some of these features, does come with a recipe book and a few accessories like a clean-a-screen and a fruit roll-up sheet.

Value and Price

The Magic Mill MFD-7070 is generally priced around $100-$150, making it an excellent value for its features and performance. The NESCO FD-1018A, on the other hand, typically retails between $120-$180. While both models are competitively priced, the Magic Mill's lower price point gives it a slight edge in terms of overall value.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both the Magic Mill MFD-7070 and the NESCO FD-1018A are excellent dehydrators that offer impressive performance and features. When choosing between these two models, consider your specific needs and priorities. If you're looking for a compact design, lower temperature settings, and additional features like automatic shut-off and fruit leather trays, the Magic Mill MFD-7070 might be the better choice. However, if you prioritize higher temperature capabilities, more drying area, and a comprehensive recipe book, the NESCO FD-1018A could be the way to go. Ultimately, both of these dehydrators are excellent options for anyone looking to explore the world of food preservation with dehydrators.