I have used many of both types of juicers and while they each have their pros and cons, I prefer a slow juicer for the vast amount of nutritional value it gives the juice.
Here’s the breakdown.
Centrifugal (fast) juicer:
Nutrient retention: Not so great. The high-speed spinning creates some heat, which can break down the nutrients and enzymes.
Ability to process leafy greens? :Less efficient, producing far less juice with little to no juice produced from wheatgrass.
Ability to process nuts for “milk”?: No
Noise level: As loud as a blender
Speed: No advantage-the two juicers, run side by side, juice at the same speed.
Up front prep work: Very little as the larger opening can accommodate large pieces of produce.
Cleanup: More, because the high speed imbeds the pulp into the mesh basket.
Pulp: Some
Price: Generally lower.
Masticating (slow) juicer:
Nutrient retention: High. This process produces no heat, thus retaining more of the ingredients’ nutrients, enzymes, phytonutrients, and micronutrients.
Ability to process leafy greens: Very high, including grassy and leafy greens. Great for folks who want or need green juices.
Ability to process nuts?: Yes. Great for making your own almond, soy or cashew milk.
Noise level: Very quiet
Speed: No real advantage. Upfront prep is amore, since you must cut the produce into pieces under two inches in size.
Cleanup: Very easy due to the low speed, usually hand wash only is recommended.
Pulp: A lotPrice: Higher, on average $100 more, but the juice output amount is higher with less produce, giving a cost savings in the long run.
The bottom line:
Buy a centrifugal juicer if:
— You use the juice mostly for cooking, baking or other processes where heat will eventually be applied
— You’re not picky about getting maximum nutrients
— You’re trying to save cash
Buy a slow press juicer if:
— You’re into cleansing, making nut milks and green juices, and you like fresh juice
— You want to pack the most nutrients into your body as possible
— You don’t mind spending a few extra bucks
Happy juicing, folks! Get healthy and kick your disease to the curb!