If only cooking 1 or 2 racks of ribs in the 2, there is no need to cut (lay diagonally). Multiple racks will need to be cut in half. I have cooked 9 racks a few of times (usually 3 rack SAMS pack and we vacseal half for a later meal). No problems fitting whole packers in if folded. My household is 3 but i cook for larger groups often (vollyball team, infusion center, etc). I use it weekly. The #2 can handle the needs for 90% of users but the cost for upgrade is minimal and your budget should guide you at this point. The #1 has benefits and limitations due to it size but i would think those purchasing it need it to be small for transporting it often or storage or budgetary constraints. They all work well. You cant go wrong with any of them, just find the one that fits your needs, wants or budgetary requirements.