Who doesn’t love a fresh glass of juice in the morning or as an afternoon pick-me-up? Juice has gotten a bad rap over the years but there are a lot of great health benefits to drinking fresh juice.
However, not all juice is created equal! While making great juice definitely starts with great organic fresh produce, the type of juicer and quality of your machine can make or break your drink.
This article showcases our top 5 picks for the best masticating juicers. We’ll share:
- what a masticating juicer is (and how it differs from the centrifugal type)
- how a masticating juicer works
- benefits of masticating juicers
- factors to consider when choosing a masticating juicer
- top 5 masticating juicers on the market in 2024
Whether you’re into green juices, vegetable juices, or fruit juices, picking the right juicer is step one to creating delicious, healthy drinks. Before we get to our top picks, let’s discuss the difference between high-speed juicers and slow juicers.
What is a Slow Masticating Juicer?
Masticating juicers, also known as slow or cold-press juicers, are designed to maximize the extraction of juice while retaining the nutritional value of fresh fruit and vegetables. Unlike centrifugal juicers that use high-speed spinning blades to chop produce, masticating juicers use a slower-speed grinding or chewing mechanism that minimizes heat generation. This helps preserve essential enzymes and nutrients that might be compromised by faster, heat-producing methods.
These juicers use a screw-shaped auger to slowly crush produce into a fine pulp. This process not only extracts a higher volume of juice but ensures that the juice contains more vitamins, minerals, and enzymes. The result is a fresher-tasting juice with less foam and pulp that, when stored properly, can maintain its color and nutritional quality for up to 72 hours.
Benefits of Masticating Juicers
Masticating juicers offer a range of benefits that make them a popular choice for health-conscious individuals. Here are some of the key benefits:
Nutrient retention One of the main benefits of masticating juicers is their ability to extract juice from fruits and vegetables while preserving the nutrients and vitamins they contain. The slow grinding process minimizes heat and oxidation, which can degrade the nutritional content of the juice.
Higher juice yield Slow juicers are known for their efficiency in extracting juice from produce. The slow and thorough grinding process ensures you get more batches of juice from the same amount of fruit and vegetables compared to other types of juicers.
Juice quality The cold-pressed juice produced by masticating juicers is of higher quality, with a smoother texture and less foam and pulp.
Versatility Masticating juicers are versatile and can juice a variety of fruits and vegetables, including leafy greens and wheatgrass. This means you can create a diverse range of juice blends to suit your taste preferences and nutritional needs.
Quiet operation Masticating juicers operate quietly, making them a great choice for households where noise level is a concern. You can enjoy freshly squeezed juice without disturbing others around you.
Easy to clean While masticating juicers may require a bit more effort to clean compared to other juicers, they are still relatively easy to maintain. The parts are simple to disassemble and clean, ensuring that you can continue to enjoy your juicing experience without the hassle of complicated cleaning routines.
Investing in a high-quality juicer is the best way to ensure you get the most out of your produce.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Masticating Juicer
We did a lot of research before we bought our Omega juicer a few years ago. Here are a few key points to consider before you buy:
Ease of assembly, use, and cleaning Look for a juicer that is intuitive to assemble, use, and clean. Check for dishwasher-safe parts and consider the design features that make the juicer easy to operate and maintain.
Attachments and features Consider the attachments and design features that come with the juicer. For example, some juicers come with both fine and coarse filters to control the amount of pulp in the final product, while others may have special screens for making ice cream. Choose a juicer that offers the features you desire for your juicing needs. Also pay attention to the feeding chute size. Large chutes allow for larger pieces of fruits and veggies, reducing the amount of chopping you’ll need to do.
Juice yield and quality Pay attention to the juice yield and quality that the juicer produces. Look for a juicer that can extract a high juice yield with minimal pulp.
Construction and durability Evaluate the construction quality of the juicer to ensure it is well-built and can withstand the juicing process. The juicer should be able to handle fibrous materials and regular use without breaking down.
Countertop footprint Masticating juicers are available in either vertical or horizontal format. Vertical juicers have a smaller footprint, making them ideal for kitchens with limited counter space. Additionally, they’re generally self-feeding, which can save time and effort during the juicing process. On the other hand, horizontal juicers are known for being more efficient at juicing leafy greens like kale and are often versatile enough to make nut butters and baby food. While horizontal juicers may take up more counter space, they offer additional capabilities that can make them a valuable addition to any kitchen. Ultimately, the decision between vertical and horizontal juicers will come down to personal preference and individual juicing needs.
Motor power A more powerful motor means that the juicer can efficiently extract more juice from fruit and vegetables and will determine whether the juicer is able to perform other tasks such as making nut butter or even grinding coffee beans.
Price and value Consider whether the construction, ease of use, and features of the juicer justify the price. Some masticating juicers may indeed be more expensive, but the added value they offer in terms of juice quality, durability, and ease of use may justify the extra cost. If you’re investing in quality produce, you want to be sure you’re getting the most out of it you can!
Keeping these factors in mind will help you make an informed decision when choosing a masticating juicer that best suits your juicing needs and preferences.
Our Top 5 Picks for The Best Masticating Juicers of 2024
Model 1: Omega NC1000HDS Premium Juicer
When we chose our juicer, the Omega VRT350, we did so with price point and counter space in mind. While we still LOVE our Omega VRT350, if we had more countertop real estate, we would easily have chosen the Omega NC1000HDS Premium Juicer.
The Omega NC1000HDS is a powerhouse in the world of masticating juicers, known for its durability and high efficiency. It operates at a low speed of 80 RPMs, which minimizes heat buildup and oxidation, preserving the natural flavor and nutrients of the juice. This slow speed also makes it exceptionally good at juicing a wide variety of fruit and vegetables, including leafy greens and wheatgrass.
Pros:
- High juice yield and quality The slow 80 RPM operation helps extract high amounts of juice while retaining essential nutrients and enzymes.
- Versatility Beyond juice, it can also make nut butters, baby food, sorbets, and even grind coffee and spices.
- Quiet operation Unlike many other juicers, the NC1000HDS operates quietly, making it more pleasant to use, especially in the mornings.
- Ease of cleaning Features an automatic pulp ejection system that helps with continuous juicing and easier cleanup.
- BPA-free
- Price Moderately priced compared to other slow-masticating juicers on the market.
- 15-Year warranty One of the longest warranties in the industry, ensuring years of reliable use. A BIG reason we trust Omega!
Cons:
- Size and weight Relatively large and heavy, which could be a consideration for those with limited kitchen space.
- Prep time Larger fruits and vegetables must be cut into smaller pieces before juicing due to the smaller feed chute.
Overall, the Omega NC1000HDS Premium Juicer is an excellent choice for serious juicing enthusiasts who value quality, versatility, and durability. Its ability to handle a diverse array of juicing tasks makes it a standout model, though its higher price and larger size may require some consideration.
Model 2: Kuvings Whole Slow Juicer
The Kuvings Whole Slow Juicer EVO820GM stands out for combining powerful performance with ease of use. This model features a wide feeding chute, which significantly reduces preparation time by allowing for larger pieces of fruit and vegetables to be fed into the machine.
Pros:
- Wide feeding chute The wide mouth allows you to juice whole fruit and vegetables, cutting down on prep time and effort.
- Versatile functionality Multi-purpose kitchen appliance capable of making smoothies, sorbets, and nut milks in addition to juice.
- Quiet operation Equipped with a 240-watt motor that operates at a slow 50 RPMs, the juicer performs efficiently while being quiet enough not to disrupt your household.
- High juice yield and quality The slow juicing process ensures that the juice retains maximum nutrients and has a richer flavor with minimal oxidation.
- Easy to clean Comes with cleaning tools designed to make the clean-up process straightforward and efficient.
- BPA-Free
- 10-year warranty
Cons:
- Price On the pricier side, which might be a consideration for those on a tighter budget.
- Size and weight Relatively large and heavy, which might not be ideal for those with smaller kitchen spaces.
- Plastic components While generally durable, some parts are made of plastic, which may raise durability concerns over long-term use.
Overall, the Kuvings Whole Slow Juicer EVO820GM is ideal for those looking for a high-performance juicer that can handle a wide variety of juicing tasks with ease. Its wide chute and quiet operation, paired with multi-functional capabilities, make it a popular choice among juicing enthusiasts.
Model 3: The Tribest Greenstar Elite GSE-5000
The Tribest Greenstar Elite GSE-5000 is celebrated for its exceptional juicing efficiency and ability to preserve nutritional quality. With its twin-gear technology, the GSE-5000 stands out in the masticating juicer category.
Pros:
- Advanced twin-gear technology Twin gears mimic human mastication to efficiently crush and grind produce and prevent nutrient loss due to heat and oxidation.
- Versatility Capable of juicing a vast array of produce from hard roots to fibrous stalks and leafy greens. It can also process food to make sorbets, nut butters, and baby food.
- High nutrient retention Operates at a slow 110 RPM, ensuring that the juice retains maximum nutrients and enzymes with minimal oxidation.
- Quiet operation The motor is powerful yet quiet, making it suitable for early morning or late-night juicing without disturbance.
- Easy to clean Although it has more parts than some other juicers, it includes a cleaning brush and unique scraper tool that simplifies the cleaning process.
Cons:
- Price One of the more premium models on the market, which may not suit everyone’s budget.
- Complexity The twin gears and multiple parts can make assembly and disassembly more challenging, particularly for beginners.
- Weight and size It’s relatively heavy and large, which may not be ideal for smaller kitchen spaces or for storing away easily.
Overall, the Tribest Greenstar Elite GSE-5000 is an excellent investment for those who are serious about juicing and want a machine that can handle a variety of juicing tasks while preserving the highest nutritional value. Its advanced features and capabilities make it a standout choice for health enthusiasts.
Model 4: The Hurom H101 Easy Clean Slow Juicer
The Hurom H101 Easy Clean Slow Juicer is celebrated for its groundbreaking “Easy Clean” technology that significantly reduces the time and effort required to clean the machine after use. This model combines the traditional benefits of slow juicing with modern convenience.
Pros:
- “Easy Clean” technology Features a simplified design with large-groove strainers to prevent pulp from sticking, making it exceptionally easy to clean under running water.
- Slow squeezing technology The juicer operates at a mere 43 RPM, preserving the cellular structure of your fruits and vegetables and maximizing the extraction of nutrients, enzymes, and flavors.
- Versatile capabilities Capable of making more than just juice; it can also produce nut milks, sorbets, and smoothies, enhancing its utility in a health-conscious kitchen.
- Quiet operation Equipped with a quiet motor to minimize noise, making it suitable for use at any time of the day.
- Compact and sleek design The H101 features a streamlined design that looks good on the countertop and takes up less space, making it ideal for smaller kitchens.
Cons:
- Price As with many Hurom juicers, the H101 comes at a premium price point, which might deter some buyers.
- Smaller feed chute Requires more preparation time for cutting fruit and vegetables into smaller pieces before juicing.
- Juicing time As a very slow juicer, it takes longer to process ingredients than the other juicers on this list.
Overall, the Hurom H101 Easy Clean Slow Juicer is an excellent choice for those who prioritize ease of maintenance without compromising the quality and nutritional value of the juice. Its user-friendly features and efficient operation make it a standout model in the world of masticating juicers.
Model 5: Masticating Juicer Machines, AMZCHEF Slow Cold Press Juicer
The AMZCHEF Slow Cold Press Juicer is recognized for its efficiency and affordability, making it a popular choice among those looking for a high-performance yet budget-friendly masticating juicer. It combines user-friendly features with a sleek design.
Pros:
- Affordable price point Offers great value for its cost, making it an accessible option for those new to juicing or on a budget.
- High efficiency and nutrient retention Operates at a slow 80 RPM to produce a high juice yield while preserving essential vitamins, enzymes, and minerals.
- Versatility Capable of more than just juicing; it can also make baby food and nut butter and grind coffee beans.
- Quiet operation Motor works quietly, making it suitable for use in households with noise level limitations.
- Safety features Includes a reverse function to prevent clogging and an automatic shutoff for overheating, enhancing its usability and longevity.
- Ease of cleaning Simple to disassemble and includes dishwasher-safe parts, making it easy to clean and maintain.
Cons:
- Feed chute size The feed chute is relatively small, meaning that fruit and vegetable pieces need to be smaller, which can increase prep time.
- Plastic components Some users have reported concerns about the durability of the plastic parts compared to those in more expensive models.
- Juicing speed As with most masticating juicers, it operates slowly, which might be less appealing to those who prefer quicker juicing options.
Overall, the AMZCHEF Slow Cold Press Juicer is an excellent choice for those entering the world of juicing or for budget-conscious consumers who don’t want to compromise quality. Its affordability combined with its comprehensive set of features makes it a highly appealing model.
Tips for Using a Masticating Juicer
Using a masticating juicer, also known as a cold press juicer, can help you extract the maximum amount of nutrients and juice from your fruits and vegetables. Here are some tips to get the most out of your masticating juicer:
Pre-cut your produce Masticating juicers typically have a smaller feed chute, so it’s best to pre-cut your fruits and vegetables into smaller pieces to make the juicing process smoother and more efficient.
Rotate your produce To ensure an even extraction of juice, alternate between juicing hard produce like carrots and apples with softer produce like leafy greens and berries.
Use the reverse function If your masticating juicer has a reverse function, use it to clear any clogs and ensure a smooth juicing process.
Clean the juicer regularly To maintain the performance of your masticating juicer, it’s important to clean it after each use. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and maintenance.
Experiment with different recipes Masticating juicers are versatile and can juice a variety of fruit, vegetables, and even nuts. Experiment with different combinations to create delicious and nutritious juices.
Don’t toss the leftover pulp Once you’re done with your juicing session, don’t toss out the pulp. Depending on the content of your juice, you can use the pulp to create fruit leather, thicken and add fiber to smoothies or soups, and more.
Following these tips will help you make the most out of your masticating juicer and enjoy fresh and healthy juices at home.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Having the right supplies and tools on hand can make cleaning and maintaining your masticating juicer much easier. Here are some recommended cleaning supplies and tools for your juicer:
Cleaning brushes Most juicers come with specially sized and shaped cleaning brushes designed to reach all the nooks and crannies of the juicer parts. These brushes are essential for scrubbing away pulp and juice residue.
Strainer cleaning tool Some juicers include a strainer cleaning tool that helps remove tiny bits of pulp from the screen. This tool can save you time and ensure your juicer is thoroughly cleaned.
Dish soap A gentle dish soap is ideal for cleaning the juicer parts. Use a mild soap without harsh chemicals that could damage the juicer components.
Microfiber cloth A soft microfiber cloth is great for wiping down the juicer exterior and drying the parts after cleaning. It helps prevent water spots and ensures a streak-free finish.
Vinegar White vinegar is a natural cleaner that can help remove buildup and odors from your juicer. Simply mix vinegar with water and run it through the juicer for a deep clean.
Having these cleaning supplies and tools on hand will help you maintain your masticating juicer so it will produce fresh and delicious juice for years to come.
Recipes and Juicing Inspiration
- “The Juicing Bible” by Pat Crocker
- “The Healthy Juicer’s Bible” by Farnoosh Brock
- “The Complete Juicer: A Healthy Guide to Making Delicious, Nutritious Juice and Growing Your Own Fruits and Vegetables” by Abigail Gehring
- “The Juice Lover’s Big Book of Juices: 425 Recipes for Super Nutritious and Crazy Delicious Juices” by Vanessa Simkins
- “The Juicing Recipe Book” by Mendocino Press
- 3 Terrific Reasons Why I Love Juicing
- Fat, Sick and Nearly Dead (DVD)
- Fat, Sick and Nearly Dead 2 (DVD)
- Why We Love the Healthy Juicer’s Bible
- Fuel Your Life at Fruitive: A Chat with Gregg Rozeboom
There you have it, our top 5 picks for masticating juicers of 2024. Happy juicing!
Looking for more ways to sneak more fruits and veggies into your diet? Download our free guide!