Breville Juice Fountain Plus JE98XL review uncovering its 850-watt dual speed performance

Description

Design and Build Quality

Testing the Breville Juice Fountain Plus JE98XL revealed that it boasts an impressive brushed stainless steel finish that gives it a sleek and modern appearance. It feels robust and durable, weighing almost 12 pounds, though I wouldn’t call it lightweight or particularly portable despite the “portable” claim. The 14.1 x 12.6 x 16.4-inch dimensions make it a bit bulky for smaller kitchens, but it fits comfortably on most countertops. The 1.1-quart capacity is sufficient for personal or small family use, and the intuitive button-based controller ensures simplicity during operation.

What stood out to me was the titanium-reinforced cutting disc paired with a stainless steel mesh filter. This combination promises smoother juice extraction and better separation of pulp. While it’s not the most compact juicer, the design feels premium and well-thought-out, catering to functionality and aesthetics.

Performance and Functionality

I’ve used quite a few juicers over the years, and this one delivers impressive power with its 850-watt motor. The dual-speed settings—12,000 RPM for hard produce like carrots and apples and 6,500 RPM for softer fruits like oranges and berries—add versatility to the machine. It’s great for someone like me who enjoys experimenting with different types of juices. The powerful motor ensures that even tough fruits and vegetables are juiced efficiently, leaving behind a relatively dry pulp.

Another feature I appreciated was the three-inch extra-large feeding chute. It significantly cuts down on prep time since you can throw in whole apples or large chunks of celery without pre-chopping them into tiny pieces. The juice yield is impressive, although I did notice a bit of foam forming when juicing certain fruits, which could be a minor inconvenience if you prefer foam-free juice.

Ease of Use and Maintenance

Operating this juicer is straightforward, thanks to its simple two-speed control system. The included juicing pitcher with a froth separator is a thoughtful addition, making it easier to pour clear juice directly into your glass. However, cleaning the appliance is where it gets a bit tricky. While the product claims to be dishwasher safe for certain parts, I found that manual cleaning is better to prevent wear and tear on the fine mesh filter. Titanium and stainless steel components require careful handling to avoid scratches or dulling over time.

The pulp container and juicing components are easy to detach and reassemble, but the stainless steel mesh can be a hassle if pulp gets stuck. A cleaning brush is included, which helps, but you may need to spend a few extra minutes scrubbing. Maintenance-wise, it’s not the most convenient, but the effort is rewarded with high-quality juice.

Key Benefits

• Dual-speed functionality for different types of produce.
• Powerful 850-watt motor ensures efficient juice extraction.
• Wide three-inch feeding chute reduces prep time.
• Titanium-reinforced disc enhances durability and performance.
• Sleek brushed stainless steel design adds a premium touch.

Areas of Concern

• Cleaning the stainless steel mesh filter can be time-consuming.
• The appliance is relatively bulky and heavy, not ideal for smaller kitchens.
• Produces noticeable foam with certain fruits, which may require additional straining.
• Not entirely dishwasher safe, despite some claims.

Competing Products

Comparing this juicer to others in the market, the Breville Juice Fountain Plus holds its ground but faces stiff competition. For instance, the Omega NC900HDC is a masticating juicer that excels in extracting juice from leafy greens, outperforming the Breville in nutrient retention. However, it’s slower and pricier. On the other hand, the Hamilton Beach Big Mouth Pro is a more budget-friendly centrifugal juicer. While it doesn’t match Breville’s 850-watt motor power or titanium cutting disc, it’s lighter and easier to clean.

What sets the Breville apart is its balance of power, design, and versatility. It may not be as compact or efficient for leafy greens as some competitors, but it excels in handling hard and soft produce alike while offering a premium build quality.

Cost Efficiency

Given the features and performance, the Breville Juice Fountain Plus offers solid value for money. Its powerful motor and dual-speed functionality make it suitable for a wide range of users, from casual juice drinkers to health enthusiasts. While it’s not the cheapest option available, the combination of durable titanium components, a wide feeding chute, and a premium design justifies the investment. That said, if you’re on a tight budget, you might want to consider simpler models, but you’d likely miss out on the refined features this one offers.

Additional information