How do I choose a masticating juicer?
Introduction
A masticating juicer is a great investment for anyone looking to incorporate fresh fruit and vegetable juices into their diet. Masticating juicers use a slow, cold-press method to extract juice which preserves more nutrients compared to centrifugal juicers. When choosing a masticating juicer, there are several factors to consider based on your needs and preferences. Read on as we discuss the benefits of masticating juicers, features to look for when shopping, and provide recommendations for some of the best models on the market today.
Benefits of Masticating Juicers
Masticating juicers have several advantages over centrifugal ejection juicers:
- Produce more juice – Masticating juicers are more efficient at extracting liquid from fruits and veggies. You can get up to 30% more juice from the same amount of produce.
- Preserve nutrients – The gentle pressing and squeezing action minimizes exposure to heat and oxygen, preserving more nutrients, enzymes, and vitamins.
- Versatility – Most masticating juicers can be used to make nut milks, baby food, sorbets and purees in addition to juice.
- Quiet operation – They run at lower RPMs so they generate less noise and vibration.
- Easy to clean – Only a handful of parts need to be rinsed or scrubbed after juicing.
The bottom line is masticating juicers maximize the nutritional value, yield, and functionality you can get from your produce.
Key Features to Look For
There are a few key features to evaluate when selecting a masticating juicer:
Juicing Mechanism
Masticating juicers work through a single or double auger pressing and grinding process. Double auger models tend to be more versatile and efficient.
Chute Size
A larger chute means less pre-chopping of fruits and veggies required before juicing. Look for at least a 3 inch wide chute.
Speeds
Multiple speeds allow you to adjust based on the hardness of the produce. Look for both a low (around 40-80 RPM) and high speed (around 90-110 RPM).
Yield
Higher wattage motors (400 watts or more) generate more torque to maximize juice yield.
Feed Chute Design
A vertical, or straight design allows gravity to help pull produce through efficiently.
Pulp Ejection
Separate pulp containers make it easier to empty leftover pulp during juicing.
Noise Level
Look for a juicer rated for 60 decibels or less for quiet operation.
Warranty
Aim for at least a 3 year warranty to ensure it can handle prolonged use.
Top Rated Masticating Juicers
Based on features, performance, quality, and value, here are my top recommendations:
| Juicer | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Tribest Slowstar SW-2000 |
|
| Omega J8006 |
|
| Kuvings B6000S |
|
| Aicok Slow Masticating |
|
Tribest Slowstar SW-2000
The Tribest Slowstar SW-2000 is one of the top rated vertical masticating juicers. It has a duo-blade auger and 3 stage speed reduction that churns produce at 47 RPM to get the maximum juice yield from fruits and vegetables. The 200 watt motor generates 3 times the torque of most centrifugal ejection juicers. It has a 3 inch feed chute and produces very dry pulp, meaning you get the most out of your produce. It operates at a quiet 60 decibels and is backed by a 10 year warranty. Overall an excellent machine for juicing aficionados.
Omega J8006
The Omega J8006 is Amazon’s #1 best selling masticating juicer, renowned for its efficiency, versatility, and durability. It extracts the maximum juice from produce using a dual stage auger spinning between 80-110 RPM. The powerful motor runs at 2 HP and is equivalent to a 1⁄3 horsepower engine. It has a small 2 inch chute but is compatible with a wide array of accessories to make nut butters, baby food, pasta, and more. It operates quietly at 80 decibels and comes with a 15 year warranty to match its long lifespan. If you want a workhorse juicer built to last, the Omega J8006 is a top contender.
Kuvings B6000S
The Kuvings B6000S is a pioneering wide mouth vertical masticating juicer. It has an extra large 3.15 inch feed chute that cuts down on vegetable prep time. The 240 watt motor allows it to power through produce with a dual winged auger design spinning between 50-60 RPM. It has a sorbet maker attachment perfect for making frozen fruit desserts. And Kuvings stands behind it with an industry leading 10 year warranty. For those looking for innovation in a masticating juicer, the Kuvings B6000S delivers.
Aicok Slow Masticating Juicer
The Aicok Slow Masticating Juicer is the best budget-friendly option. It has a 150 watt motor that spins at 80 RPM to extract juices without excess foaming or clogging. The vertical design saves counter space and prevents juices from getting stuck. It comes with a reverse function to handle any jamming. While the yield and build quality isn’t as robust as the pricier models, it’s a great entry level masticating juicer that won’t break the bank.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Masticating Juicer
What types of produce do you plan to juice?
If you will primarily be juicing leafy greens and soft fruits like berries, look for a masticating juicer with a single auger design that handles those softer textures best. If you will juice a mix of hard and soft produce, a double auger is ideal. And for frequent juicing of hard items like carrots and beets, choose a model with a stronger motor and metal augers.
What’s your budget?
Masticating juicer prices range from about $100 on the low end for basic models to $400+ for those with more power and versatility. Set a budget to narrow down the options but know that more expensive models generally equate to better performance and durability.
Do you plan to make nut milks, baby food etc.?
If you want expanded functionality beyond just juicing, choose a masticating juicer with a blank plate and accompanying accessories for making pasta, nut butters, sorbet and more. The most versatile models have the most accessory options.
How much counter space can you spare?
Vertical masticating juicers take up less square footage than horizontal versions. Measure the dimensions of wherever you plan to store your juicer to find one that will fit. Also look at the size of collection cups, chutes and pulp bins to ensure they’ll fit under your kitchen cabinets.
Is the juicer easy to clean?
Look for models with 6 or less detachable parts that are dishwasher safe. Pulp and collection containers should be easy to empty and access. The best masticating juicers minimize the mess and hassle after juicing.
Conclusion
When investing in a masticating juicer, start by considering what type of produce you’ll juice and how much you plan to spend. Look for key features like a powerful motor, dual augers, wide feed chute, reverse function, and quiet operation. Vertical, space-saving designs tend to be the most versatile and efficient. Leading brands like Tribest, Omega, and Kuvings consistently rate well but also consider reputable budget models like Aicok. Finding the best juicer depends on matching key features and performance with your budget and juicing needs. Take the time to do research and you’ll end up with a masticating juicer that makes juicing an easy, mess-free, and enjoyable experience.