In 2021, the juicing industry continued to evolve, bringing forth innovative appliances that catered to a range of lifestyles, health goals, and budgets. Whether you’re a professional health enthusiast or a casual home juicer, investing in the right juicing machine can transform your daily routines and elevate your wellness journey. This article explores the top juicer models available in 2021, evaluating their features, performance, and user-friendliness to help you make an informed decision.
If you’re deciding on a juicer this year, you want quality, durability, and optimal nutrition extraction. Let’s dive into the best juicers of 2021 and everything you must know before making a purchase.
Why Choosing the Right Juicer Matters
Juicers have become essential appliances for many households, especially for those focused on clean eating, plant-based diets, or weight management. While several varieties of blenders and food processors offer “juicing” abilities, a dedicated juicer extracts maximum nutrients, vitamins, and enzymes by separating the juice from fibrous pulp. This makes nutrient absorption easier for the body and provides a concentrated punch of energy-boosting benefits.
The year 2021 offered consumers a wide array of choices from leading brands such as Breville, Omega, Hurom, and more. Some standout models stood tall in terms of juicing efficiency, versatility, ease of cleaning, noise levels, and price point.
Understanding the Types of Juicers
Before selecting the best juicer for your lifestyle, it’s important to understand the different juicer types:
Masticating (Cold Press) Juicers
These juicers operate at a low speed, typically around 80 RPM, which minimizes heat and oxidation. Masticating juicers are known for preserving the taste and nutritional value of fresh juice. They are especially great for leafy greens, wheatgrass, and nuts. Their powerful motors and compact designs make them ideal for health-focused users who prefer quality over speed.
Centrifugal Juicers
Centrifugal juicers are faster, more affordable, and known for their high-speed operation. They work by grinding fruits and vegetables and spinning them at high RPMs to separate the juice from the pulp. However, the speed often generates heat, which can degrade enzymes and vitamins, making them a better fit for casual juicers.
Citrus Juicers
As their name suggests, citrus juicers are designed specifically for oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruits. While they serve a niche purpose, they do it incredibly well and are often easy to clean and maintain.
Top 5 Best Juicers of 2021: A Comparative Overview
Based on research from major appliance reviews, user feedback, and product testing, here are the five best juicers of 2021 that offered excellent juice quality, durability, and features:
| Model | Type | Features | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breville Juice Fountain Plus | Centrifugal | 1,000-Watt motor, 3-inch-wide chute, foam separator | Fast, efficient, affordable | Juice oxidizes quicker, louder | Busy individuals needing fresh juice quickly |
| Hurom H-AA Slow Juicer | Masticating | Slow speed motor, dual-stage extraction, compact design | Tastes fresher, excellent for all produce types | Higher price point, slower | Health enthusiasts and frequent juicers |
| Omega VSJ843QS Vertical Masticating Juicer | Masticating | Variable speed, space-saving vertical design | Extremely quiet, slow oxidation | Harder to clean | Those prioritizing quality and versatility |
| Black+Decker Juice Extractor | Centrifugal | Affordable, easy assembly, 3-inch feed chute | Budget-friendly, easy to use | Durable life may be shorter | Beginners or occasional juicers |
| Mueller Ultra Juicer | Centrifugal | Powerful motor, stainless steel parts, anti-drip | High extraction rate, easy on budget | Storage may be an issue, noise | Everyday use, budget-conscious buyers |
Deep Dive into the Best Juicer Models
Let’s explore each of these models in detail to understand why they deserved a spot among the best juicers of 2021.
1. Breville Juice Fountain Plus – Best Overall Centrifugal Juicer
With a powerful 1000-watt motor and a generously sized 3-inch feed chute, the Breville Juice Fountain Plus stands out as a top-performing centrifugal juicer. This model minimizes prep time because of its extra-wide entry, allowing you to juice whole fruits and produce with minimal slicing.
Its dual-stage micro mesh filter produces high-quality juice with low pulp content. It also features a foam separator, which enhances the clarity of the juice. It’s reasonably priced and well-reviewed for its speed and efficiency.
However, as is the case with most centrifugal models, the juice from this appliance oxidizes more quickly than from slow juicers, and it’s noisier.
2. Hurom H-AA Slow Juicer – Premium Masticating Option
The Hurom H-AA Slow Juicer is a world-class masticating juicer known for its elegant design and high nutrient extraction. Unlike centrifugal models, this one operates at low RPMs, which helps preserve healthy enzymes and produce juice that lasts longer without spoiling.
It also has a self-feeding feature that prevents clogging and reduces the effort during the juicing process. The Hurom can handle everything from leafy greens and hard vegetables to soy milk and nut butters, making this juicer highly versatile.
Priced at a premium, the Hurom H-AA is ideal for juice lovers who prioritize nutrition over speed and enjoy a premium product that’s designed to last.
3. Omega VSJ843QS Vertical Juicer – Innovative Design and Efficiency
The Omega VSJ843QS Vertical Juicer breaks the norm with its vertical orientation, which improves stability and space-saving compared to horizontal slow juicers. With over 20 years of reputation in the juicer market, Omega delivered strong performance with this model.
It has a slow motor operating at 40-80 RPMs, meaning the juice remains cooler and fresher. It’s also one of the quietest masticating juicers available, making it suitable for apartment living.
Among its standout features is the adjustable end cap that allows you to modulate juice and pulp texture, appealing to a wide range of preferences. One of the drawbacks is that the vertical design can make it more complex to clean than some other models, especially after juicing fibrous materials like wheatgrass or kale.
4. Black+Decker Juice Extractor – The Economical Choice
The Black+Decker Juice Extractor is a simple, budget-friendly option for beginners or intermittent juicers. With a powerful 600-watt motor and large feed cap, it can process many common fruits and veggies, making it practical for casual juicing routines.
Assembly and disassembly are straightforward, and the compact footprint is ideal for kitchens with limited space. Users praise its affordability and decent juice quality for its price.
However, its components are mostly plastic, and the durability may not match high-end stainless steel or BPA-free Tritan™ alternatives. That said, if you’re new to juicing, this is an excellent start.
5. Mueller Ultra Juicer Classic Max – Best Budget-Friendly Extraction
The Mueller Ultra Juicer Classic Max gained popularity in 2021 for its affordable pricing, powerful motor, and efficient extraction. This centrifugal juicer delivers exceptional juicing performance without stretching your budget.
Users often pointed out how easy it is to clean and noted the anti-drip feature, which prevents messes during or after juicing. It’s ideal for daily users who don’t want to spend excessive time or money but still expect quality and consistency in their juicing machine.
Its drawbacks include the typical centrifugal issues related to oxidation and noise. However, for everyday extraction, it remains one of the most popular choices.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a 2021 Juicer
As with any kitchen appliance, your personal preferences and intended use should drive your selection. Here are the top five criteria to assess for maximum satisfaction:
1. Juicing Purpose
Understanding how often you’ll juice and for what purpose will determine the best choice. Occasional juicing can be fulfilled with affordable centrifugal juicers, while daily or health-driven routines demand masticating options.
2. Types of Produce You Prefer
If your routine includes leafy greens, wheatgrass, or nuts, a slow juicer is ideal. For harder fruits and veggies like apples, carrots, and celery, centrifugal machines perform efficiently without much hassle.
3. Ease of Assembly and Cleaning
One of the biggest deterrents for daily juicing is the hassle of cleaning. Look for models with fewer components, dishwasher-safe parts, and quick disassembly. Brands like Hurom and Breville offer juicers that are relatively easy to maintain.
4. Budget
From budget-oriented options starting at under $100 to high-end juicers costing over $300, each model comes with a different value proposition. Determine what you’re willing to spend versus what additional features you may actually use.
5. Countertop Space
For small kitchens or compact layouts, vertical masticating juicers and compact centrifugal models are optimal. Avoid bulky horizontal masticating types unless you have dedicated storage.
Juicer Maintenance Tips for Longevity and Optimal Performance
Investing in a high-quality juicer is only the start. Proper maintenance ensures consistent output and prolongs the life of the appliance. Here are some maintenance best practices:
- Clean immediately after each use, preferably before the pulp dries.
- Use the cleaning brush provided with most juicers to remove trapped pulp in filters and blades.
- Rinse all non-electrical components under warm water to dislodge debris.
- Occasionally use vinegar or specialized juicer cleaning solutions to remove buildup and sanitize.
- Ensure all parts are air-dried before storing to avoid mold or odors.
Note: Some high-end juicers now include self-cleaning functions or components that can go directly into a dishwasher, making this process far easier.
What You Can Juice: Beyond Fruits and Vegetables
Modern juicers from 2021 are far more versatile than their predecessors. Besides conventional apples, oranges, and carrots, these machines allow you to experiment with:
- Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, wheatgrass, and parsley.
- Nuts & Seeds: Almonds and sunflower seeds to make raw nut milk.
- Herbs & Spices: Ginger, turmeric, and mint add immune-boosting or detoxifying properties to your juice.
- Soy Products: Some masticating juicers, like Omega and Hurom, can grind soybeans to make traditional soymilk or tofu alternatives.
These functionalities greatly increase the ROI of investing in a higher-end juicer like the Hurom H-AA or Omega VSJ843QS.
Final Recommendation: Our Pick for Best 2021 Juicer Overall
Breville Juice Fountain Plus
– While it lacks some of the premium features of masticating juicers, it delivers an excellent balance of efficiency, performance, and price. Ideal for everyday users, it doesn’t compromise on juice quality and features essential to usability and fast prep.
For those who want to take their health seriously without budget barriers, the Hurom H-AA Slow Juicer remains a top-tier option. It’s packed with quality features that enhance juicing longevity and nutrition.
The Omega VSJ843QS wins for versatility and customization, especially among enthusiasts who want to juice, grind, or make alternative milks.
If you’re looking to explore juicing on a tighter budget, either the Black+Decker Juice Extractor or the Mueller Ultra Juicer Classic Max can provide great starting value without sacrificing too much in performance or juice yield.
In Conclusion: The Best 2021 Juicer for Your Lifestyle
In 2021, juicer technology advanced significantly, offering users a choice that matched nearly any health philosophy and kitchen setup. From fast, efficient juicers to nutrition-focused cold press machines, the market was ripe for better, more intelligent designs to help people make better juice at home.
Before purchasing, consider your frequency, favorite fruits and vegetables, and your available kitchen space. With the right strategy, the best juice of your life is just a machine away.
Whether you’re aiming for enhanced immunity, detoxification, or simply looking to enjoy rich flavors from fresh fruits and veggies, a quality juicer from 2021 can help set you on the right track. Choose wisely and juice to your heart’s content!
What factors should I consider when choosing the best 2021 juicer?
When selecting the best juicer for your needs in 2021, several key factors should be taken into account. These include the type of juicer (centrifugal, masticating, or citrus), your juicing goals (daily use, health benefits, or occasional juicing), and the types of fruits and vegetables you plan to juice. Centrifugal juicers are generally faster and more affordable but may produce more foam and heat, which can affect nutrient retention. Masticating juicers, though slower and more expensive, offer higher juice yields and preserve more enzymes and nutrients.
Besides performance, consider the ease of cleaning, noise level, and available features such as wide feed chutes or pulp control settings. The size and portability of the juicer are also important, especially if you have limited kitchen space. Additionally, take into account warranty and customer service, which can be crucial in the long-term ownership of the machine. By carefully evaluating these elements, you can find a juicer that aligns with your lifestyle and health goals.
Are masticating juicers better than centrifugal juicers?
Masticating juicers, often referred to as slow juicers, use a single gear or auger to crush and press produce at a low speed. This process minimizes heat buildup and oxidation, resulting in juice that retains more nutrients, enzymes, and color over time. They also tend to offer higher juice yields, especially when processing leafy greens, wheatgrass, and harder vegetables like carrots. For health-conscious individuals or those interested in juicing raw vegetables and herbs, a masticating juicer is often the better option.
However, centrifugal juicers have their advantages, particularly in terms of speed and convenience. They work by using a fast-spinning blade that extracts juice quickly, making them ideal for busy individuals. They are usually less expensive and easier to find in retail stores. On the downside, they tend to create more foam and have a shorter juice shelf life due to greater oxidation. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your priorities—nutrient preservation and versatility versus speed and cost.
How important is juice yield and nutrient retention in a juicer?
Juice yield and nutrient retention are two critical performance indicators for any juicer. A high yield means you get more juice from the same amount of produce, which can save you money over time, especially if you juice regularly. Juicers with better yield typically grind more effectively and extract juice from fibrous materials that other machines might leave behind. This is especially important if you use expensive ingredients like wheatgrass or organic produce.
Nutrient retention is another factor that affects the health benefits of your juice. Slower juicers, like masticating models, retain more enzymes, vitamins, and antioxidants because they generate less heat and friction. If you’re juicing for wellness or to support a specific health regimen, this difference can be meaningful. Conversely, centrifugal juicers can degrade some nutrients due to their high-speed operation. While the difference may not be life-changing for casual users, those who juice for therapeutic purposes should prioritize nutrient retention in their purchase decision.
What are the best juicers for beginners?
If you’re new to juicing, it’s wise to start with a model that’s user-friendly, affordable, and easy to clean. Centrifugal juicers often fit this bill, offering quick setup and juice extraction with minimal prep time. Popular beginner-friendly brands include Breville, Hamilton Beach, and Cuisinart, which offer reliable machines with intuitive designs and wide feed chutes that accept whole fruits, minimizing chopping time. These juicers are also typically lighter and more compact than masticating models, making them easier to store and maintain.
That said, if you’re committed to juicing regularly and are willing to invest more time and money, beginning with a masticating juicer can offer long-term benefits. Brands like Omega, Hurom, and Aicok offer models that, while slower, provide better juice quality and versatility. These machines can do more than juice, such as making nut butter, baby food, and sorbets. For the beginner who wants to explore juicing deeply, choosing a mid-range masticating model can be the best long-term investment for health and kitchen utility.
How easy are high-end juicers to clean?
Cleaning a juicer can be one of the more tedious aspects of owning one, but higher-end models often come with features designed to simplify this task. Many high-end juicers, such as those from Omega and Hurom, have detachable parts that are dishwasher safe or can be rinsed clean under running water within seconds. Some also include special cleaning brushes or tools to remove pulp from tight spaces. Their designs are typically streamlined with fewer crevices, reducing the buildup of residue.
Despite these conveniences, regular and immediate cleaning is still essential to maintain the efficiency and longevity of the machine. Waiting too long to clean a juicer can lead to dried pulp and juice stains that are difficult to remove, potentially damaging the machine over time. Some models even support one-button disassembly, making the cleaning process faster. For those who juice daily, a juicer that’s easy to clean is a must, and investing in a model with a good cleaning reputation can make the juicing experience much more enjoyable.
Which juicers are best for leafy greens and wheatgrass?
When it comes to juicing fibrous and delicate greens like kale, spinach, wheatgrass, or parsley, not all juicers perform equally. Masticating juicers are specifically designed to handle leafy greens because they crush and press the produce at a low speed, effectively extracting every drop of juice. These juicers typically have a dedicated juicing chamber and an auger that is specially engineered to deal with soft, fibrous materials without causing clogs or overheating.
For wheatgrass specifically, some masticating juicers are better than others. Look for juicers with a wheatgrass adapter or smaller chute designed to handle the dense, fibrous nature of this popular superfood. The Omega J8006HDS and Hurom H-AA models are particularly noted for their success with wheatgrass. If you’re incorporating more greens into your diet for health reasons, it’s worth investing in a juicer that can efficiently extract their nutrients without wasting any material, ensuring you get the most out of your ingredients.
What are the best budget juicers in 2021?
If you’re looking to start juicing without a significant financial investment, there are several budget-friendly juicers that offer impressive performance. Centrifugal juicers are often the most affordable, with models like the Hamilton Beach Big Mouth Juice Extractor and the Dash DJW150 offering decent juice yield and ease of use. These machines typically range between $50 and $100 and are excellent for those who want quick results and don’t mind occasional maintenance. While they may not offer as many features as high-end models, they’re good for people who juice a few times a week with simple ingredients.
For those willing to spend a bit more—between $100 and $200—there are juicers that offer better build quality and improved juice extraction. For example, the Breville JE98XL brings in additional features like a large pulp container and a 3-inch feed chute, allowing for less chopping before juicing. This added flexibility and efficiency make the mid-range juicer a better long-term value for people who find themselves juicing more frequently. While budget models may not last as long or offer the same nutrient retention as pricier machines, they can serve as a great starting point for new juicers or occasional users.