Centrifugal vs. Masticating Juicers: Which Juicer Is Best?

Choosing between a centrifugal and masticating juicer can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be.

Let’s break it down and help you figure out which one fits your lifestyle best.

What Are Centrifugal Juicers?

Centrifugal juicers are the classic, fast-spinning machines that work by shredding fruits and vegetables with a high-speed blade.

The juice is then separated from the pulp through a strainer. I have the Breville Juice Fountain™ Multi-Speed and love it. I prefer this style of juicer for the ease of use, price, and clean-up factors.

Why Choose a Centrifugal Juicer?

• Speed: Juice is ready in under a minute.
• Affordable: Generally cheaper than true masticating juicers.
• Easy to Clean: With fewer parts, cleanup is simple—especially if you line the pulp container with a compost or produce bag!
• Great for Beginners: Perfect for those new to juicing or looking for something simple and quick.

What Are Masticating Juicers?

Masticating juicers (aka slow juicers) use an auger to crush and press the juice out of produce. This process works much slower but is often praised for its efficiency and nutrient preservation.

Health Enthusiasts generally advocate for “masticating” juicers. However, my personal opinion is that they’re not worth the hype unless you’re dedicating to juicing as a major part of your health protocol or life. Masticating juices are significantly more expensive than centrifugal juicers and more time-intensive to clean, so some people end up avoiding juicing because of the time investment it takes to use this style of juicer.

Hot Tip: There are newer (cheaper) versions of juicers labeled “masticating,” but some are still “centrifugal.” A high-quality masticating juicers generally costs $500+. Don’t be fooled by cheap knock-offs if you choose a masticating juicer. I don’t have a “masticating” juicer, but if I bought one, I’d get an Omega like this one or a Nama.

Why Choose a Masticating Juicer?

• Nutrient Retention: The slower process reduces heat and oxidation, keeping more enzymes and nutrients intact.
• Ideal for Leafy Greens: Extracts more juice from tougher greens like kale and spinach.
• Longer Shelf Life: Juice stays fresher for up to 48 hours.
• Higher Juice Yield: Gets more juice out of your produce, especially with fibrous veggies.

Comparing Centrifugal vs. Masticating: Which One Wins?

Here’s how they stack up:

What About Green Juice?

If you’re looking to make green juice with cucumber and celery as the base, both types of juicers will work.

• Masticating Juicers: Extract every last drop, especially from tough greens like kale and chard.
• Centrifugal Juicers: Still make a delicious, vibrant juice. Just drink it immediately or within one day for the best quality.

Green Juice Recipes:

Centrifugal Juicers Are Affordable and a Great Choice for Most People

If you’re new to juicing or just want something fast and convenient, centrifugal juicers are the practical choice. I have the Breville Juice Fountain and love it. Find the best juicer that works for you.

Here’s why:

• They’re budget-friendly.
• Cleanup is a breeze (use that compost bag in the pulp container hack!).
• They produce great juice quickly, perfect for busy mornings.
• You’ll actually use it more often because of how simple it is.

The Bottom Line

If you’re a dedicated juicer with a big budget, a masticating juicer might be worth it for nutrient preservation and versatility. But for most people, centrifugal juicers are the clear winner—they’re affordable, easy to clean, and make a fresh, tasty green juice you can enjoy right away.

The best juicer is the one you’ll actually use, so pick the one that works for you and start enjoying the health benefits of fresh juice.

And, be sure to make my Easy Green Juice if you get a new juicer!