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We bought 9 of the best water filters available today after researching over 70 different products to find out which filters are truly the top models out there. We tested pitchers, under-sink, and countertop filters, evaluating them along strategic metrics such as containment removal, taste, and the use experience. We leveraged a side-by-side testing setup to compare performance directly. We also had an independent water quality lab measure the samples collected before and after filtering to determine scores objectively. Read on to see which filter took the top spot, which under-sink model is best, and which filter gives you the most bang for the buck.
Editor's Note: We edited our water filter review on February 7, 2024, to include links to our full test lineup and to include comparisons between award winners.
Incredible filtration, included TDS meter, easy setup
Zero installation reverse osmosis system, exceptional filtration performance, fast setup
Affordable reverse osmosis system, good taste
Great taste, can pour water while the reservoir is still filtering
Cons
Time-consuming installation, shorter stage 1-3 filter life
Filters slowly after a few weeks of use
Expensive, large countertop footprint
Wastes water, longer installation time
Filters have short lifespan
Bottom Line
One of the best ways to provide filtered and desirable water for your home
Best-in-class filtration and convenience for an approachable initial and annual cost
The best option for renters or short-term tenants who want a hassle-free setup, this efficient reverse osmosis system provides immediate water purification
A more affordable reverse osmosis system that produces highly filtered and delicious water but wastes more water than others in the process
A simple, effective pitcher that produces high-quality water at a low yearly cost
The iSpring RCC7 offers a competitive price, exceptional filtration capabilities, and a pleasing taste. The 5-stage filtration process demonstrated exceptional performance in our tests, removing an impressive amount of contaminants. Our test team widely liked the taste of the water and described it as neutral, crisp, and odorless. The low cost of the filters allows this model to be one of the most affordable units in the review, both initially and annually. This model is ideal for those seeking an efficient, affordable, quality reverse osmosis filter.
The installation and maintenance requirements align with those of most other reverse osmosis filters, with a typical DIY setup likely taking a few hours. However, the lifespan of the iSpring's stage 1-3 filters falls a bit short compared to some competitors. Despite the filters' low cost, this translates to more frequent maintenance than other models. For those who may find the additional hassle of a reverse osmosis system unnecessary or cumbersome, the APEC WFS-1000 presents a worthwhile under-sink alternative that still delivers effective filtration with an easier setup.
The ZeroWater 10 Cup 5 Stage Filter is a top-notch product. Its superior performance lies in its robust ability to eliminate a variety of contaminants, including PFOA/PFOS. It includes a total dissolved solids (TDS) meter that provides users with a way to measure water purity and a queue to change the filter. The fast setup and pour spout on the back side of the jug enhance its convenience. It's great for individuals or small families looking for convenience and premier filtration.
Despite its impressive filtration capabilities, the taste of the ZeroWater did not appeal to everyone. Its highly efficient filtration produces a light, neutral, and smooth taste. Lastly, the higher price of the filters creates a higher annual cost than other pitchers. If you are looking for a pitcher with the best-tasting water that pleases a wide variety of preferences, then look at the PUR Classic 11 Cup Pitcher.
The APEC WFS-1000 water filter is a reliable and cost-effective solution for those seeking cleaner, tastier water. Its compact, tankless design makes it a great fit for small under-the-sink areas, and its slightly simplified setup broadens its appeal. The filter excels at removing contaminants like chlorine, fluoride, copper, and lead, contributing to its delicious taste. This makes it an excellent choice for delicious water and effective filtration in an affordable, smaller package.
While the APEC WFS-1000 offers many benefits, it falls short in filtering water with high levels of sulfates and iron. In areas where the water supply has excess sulfur or metallic flavors, this model may fall short. For instance, the APEC Essence ROES-50, a compact and efficient reverse osmosis system, could be an ideal alternative. This model offers enhanced filtration capabilities and delivers delicious neutral water at one of the lowest annual costs for a reverse osmosis filter.
The APEC WFS-1000 is a simplified under-the-sink model that maximizes convenience and affordability. It has one of the highest flow rates to get your water faster.
We're impressed with the PUR Classic 11 Cup Pitcher for its great-tasting water and solid filtration capabilities. The unit allows users to access and pour out filtered water while the upper compartment continues to filter. The resulting water was a favorite with the test team for its neutral, fresh, and nearly bottled character. This product is perfect for consumers who prioritize taste and quality in their drinking water and prefer the convenience of quick access to filtered water.
However, a drawback of the PUR Classic Pitcher is the shorter lifespan of its filters compared to other pitchers in the market. This can lead to more frequent replacements, which could be inconvenient for some users and slightly increase the annual expense of this model. The ZeroWater 10-Cup 5-Stage is a suitable alternative for those who prefer a longer-lasting filter or expect a higher usage volume. These two pitcher filters are similar in their upfront cost, but be aware that the ZeroWater's replacement filters are pricier than the PURs.
The Bluevua RO100ROPOT water filter system offers an exceptional filtration performance with zero installation, making it an ideal solution for consumers who want the benefits of reverse osmosis filtration but cannot install a permanent system. Its four-stage filtration process effectively eliminates contaminants, providing users with clean and refreshing water. This product is particularly suited to renters or short-term tenants who seek a high-quality, portable filtration solution.
The Bluevua operates with moderate efficiency at a 2:1 ratio, generating some wastewater that requires repurposing as it is not connected to the plumbing. Additionally, it is relatively expensive and takes up substantial counter space. For those who can accommodate a permanent installation and are looking for a more cost-effective solution, the iSpring RCC7 under-the-sink reverse osmosis system is a great alternative due to its filtration performance and lower overall cost.
The operation of this device can be compared to using a coffee maker; replenish the water storage, select the desired amount of water, and initiate the process by pressing the round water button.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
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We installed and tested each model to find the best performing, value, and specialty use filters.
Credit: Graham Faulknor
Why You Should Trust Us
Each water filter in our testing roster was purchased at full price, ensuring no influence from manufacturers through free or sample models. We've been testing dozens of water filters since 2019, and we've honed our methods year after year to deliver the most accurate results.
The majority of a filter's score hinges on its effectiveness in removing various contaminants and impurities. To guarantee the precision of our data, we subjected both the contaminated supply and the filtered water to rigorous analysis at an independent water quality lab. This meticulous process allowed us to determine each filter's performance accurately.
In addition to lab analysis, we utilized a Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) meter and chemical indicator strips to assess each filter's efficiency further.
For the taste metric, we assembled a panel of judges who blindly tasted and ranked each water sample. They evaluated whether the filter introduced any unpleasant taste to clean water and assessed its ability to remove undesirable compounds effectively.
Finally, we examined each filter's user experience, considering factors such as installation, maintenance, cost, and efficiency. This comprehensive approach ensures our reviews are thorough, reliable, and beneficial to users seeking the best water filter for their needs. To learn more about our procedures, see at How We Test.
Our water filter testing is divided into three different metrics:
Contaminant Removal (60% of overall score weighting)
Taste (30% weighting)
Setup and Use (10% weighting)
Our testing team of Graham Faulknor and Isaac Laredo have tested well over hundreds of products. Isaac has a degree in Environmental Science, a strong background in water and snow science, and has had his environmental research published in academic journals. Graham has a degree in mechanical engineering and owns two patents. Both bring substantial experience to the team when designing, analyzing, and communicating our testing procedures. You are in good hands between Isaac's experience conducting and designing environmental studies and research and Graham's formal training and career experience working as a mechanical engineer.
A small subset of our blind taste test.
We had a third-party lab test both the control and test samples.
We built a custom test counter to conduct true side-by-side tests.
Analysis and Test Results
To determine the best water filters, we divided our review into five weighted testing metrics: a trio of impurity removal tests, a taste test, and a water flow rate test. Each rating metric is weighted based on its significance and is comprised of various subtests.
Value
The correlation between a water filter's performance and its price is not always straightforward. While high-priced products often offer more filtration stages, potentially yielding better results, this isn't universally true. It largely depends on the type of filter the unit uses. Some expensive filters surprisingly underperform in contaminant removal tests. A simple pitcher can be cost-effective and have a robust filter. At the same time, a complex countertop model or an under-the-sink system will be more expensive and can deliver similar results. Your usage and spatial needs largely determine the value of a water filter.
The ZeroWater 10-Cup Pitcher is an excellent value and top performer. It is slightly more expensive than other pitcher models but is significantly more affordable than any under-the-sink model, yet it also delivered the best score overall. Another good value is the Pur Classic 11 Cup Pitcher which is a few bucks cheaper, but this reduction comes with a drop in filtration performance. If under-sink filters fit your needs better, then the iSpring RCC7 or the APEC WFS-1000 are fantastic options. The RCC7 offers better filtration performance, but the APEC is a better choice if you want a lower start-up and annual cost.
The price of the filter doesn't always correlate to its overall performance.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Heading Into the Great Outdoors?
Then it's best to leave all of these products behind. While under the sink or faucet-mount filters aren't suited to the backcountry, filter pitchers are designed to improve the taste and quality of already-potable water, not to render lake or stream water safe to drink. That task is better left to a water filter specifically designed for the backcountry. To ensure the filter you are considering is up to the task you have in mind, we recommend that you always consult the manufacturer's specifications.
Contanimant Removal
The rising awareness of potential contaminants in tap water and their health implications has underscored the importance of water filters. Many individuals may not be aware of the unseen pollutants lurking in their water. However, water filters can offer reassurance by providing clean, safe drinking water. We created a water sample infused with high chlorine, iron, sulfate, lead, fluoride, and copper levels to determine the efficacy of various water filters. These values vastly exceeded the acceptable water quality standards set forth by the EPA. We sent the filtered and control samples for testing to Western Environmental Testing Laboratories, an independent water quality lab, to ensure the highest quality data.
The iSpring RCC7 is the most effective filter in our review. The model uses a five-stage reverse osmosis filtration process with NSF certified filters. It removed 100% of chlorine, fluoride, copper, and lead. It also removed 99.88% (2297.3 of 2300 mg/l) of sulfate and 99.91% (629.42 of 630 mg/l) of iron. The water sample from this first-rate filter had only a mere 3.28 mg/l of contaminant left over. The best pitcher performance came from the ZeroWater 10 Cup 5 Stage Pitcher.
The small yet mighty ZeroWater 10 Cup 5 Stage Pitcher outperforms other large under-the-sink models to provide premier filtration. It also uses an NSF-certified five-stage gravity-fed filter. The filter is uniquely certified to remove PFOAS, a chemical used to manufacture water and stain-resistant fabrics and nonstick cookware. A 2023 EPA study estimated at least 42% of United States tap water sources contain this chemical. These chemicals can accumulate in the bodies of humans and pets and have been linked to various health issues, including reproductive and developmental problems. The ZeroWater removed 100% of chlorine, fluoride, lead, copper, and sulfate. It also removed 99.46% (626.6 of 630 mg/l) of iron. The impressive filter brought the 3004.2 mg/l sample to a mere and potable 3.4 mg/l of water.
The supplied TDS meter allows you to assess the quality of water pre and post filtration.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
The Bluevua RO100ROPOT is a countertop reverse osmosis system that uses four-stage purification to remove impurities. This model filtered out 100% of chlorine, fluoride, copper, iron, and lead. On par with the other contaminants, this unit filtered out 99.09% (2279 of 2300 mg/l) of sulfate, well below the acceptable limit of 250 mg/l set by the EPA. The overall value of the water was 21 mg/l.
The Home Master HydroPerfection features nine-stage reverse osmosis filtration and a UV filter to kill microorganisms. The Home Master filtered out 100% of lead and chlorine. It also filtered above 99.2% of copper, iron, and sulfate. Lastly, the model removed 96.2% of fluoride. The result was a clear, potable water sample with a respectable total value of 19.85 mg/l.
We maintained the highest standards and sent control and filtered samples to an independent third-party lab for rigorous testing.
Credit: Graham Faulknor
The APEC Essence directly challenged each of the above filters in head-to-head testing. This five-stage reverse osmosis system left very few things behind and removed 100% of chlorine, sulfate, lead, iron, and copper. Compared to the other top filters, it fell slightly short on fluoride as it removed 94.70% (9.47 of 10mg/l). The serious filtration power of the model left the smallest amount of leftover contaminants of any filter in the review and transformed our 3,004.02 mg/l water sample to .53 mg/l.
This sample contains around 3400 mg/l of lead, chorline, and iron. Yuck!
Credit: Graham Faulknor
All of the above filters are acceptable for any water source as the filter reduced the overall consumption to a level well within the acceptable EPA standards. The remainder of the filters left some contaminants above acceptable standards. While these filters are acceptable for most water sources, they may fit some better than others.
If you are unsure of your water quality, you can request a water quality report. The report will showcase what contaminants or minerals are in your tap water and ultimately help you pick the best water filter.
The APEC WFS-1000 is the only standard filtration under the sink model in the review. While it couldn't compete with the top model, it still offered effective filtration, removing 100% of chlorine, copper, lead, and fluoride. It particularly struggled with sulfate and iron, only filtering out 39.13% (900 mg/l) and 46.03% (290 mg/l) respectively. It is best suited for water sources with lower iron and sulfate.
One of our in-house testers, Graham Fauklnor, diligently gathering samples of purified water for the contaminant testing outside our lab facility.
Credit: Graham Faulknor
Taste
Water filters can significantly enhance the taste of tap water, particularly when it carries an off-putting metallic or chemical undertone. The experience of enjoying a glass of refreshing water directly from your tap can enrich your home life and reduce dependency on bottled water. We recognize that taste preferences are diverse; some individuals savor a mineral hint in their water, while others lean towards a more neutral flavor, and there's a whole spectrum in between. To effectively gauge and rank taste, our test team conducted a blind taste test. Each model filtered water from a garden hose to produce water for evaluation. We had five taste testers drink the filtered water from each unit, garden hose water, and tap water and rate it from best to worst.
The Pur Classic was a clear winner in terms of taste. Nearly every panel member rated it at least above average, with others giving it top marks of very good. It produces neutral, fresh, soft water that appeals to a wide variety.
The iSpring, APEC WFS-1000, APEC Essence, and Brita Tahoe Pitcher were tester favorites for taste and commonly rated above average. These models produce water comparable to bottled water through a neutral, refreshing profile.
One of the goals of the blind taste test is to describe the character and flavor of each water.
Credit: Graham Faulknor
The Berkey and Bluevua produce great neutral-tasting water, especially when compared to the tap or a garden hose, but neither stood out in the blind taste test.
The Home Master uses a remineralization filter that reintroduces calcium and magnesium into the water to provide a mineral water experience. The filter is effective; our test team found it carried a slightly harder and more flavorful character. The water from this filter divided our test team as some like mineral water, and others don't.
The ZeroWater was another filter that divided our test team. Its exceptionally pure water possessed a soft, neutral, smooth profile that shared the characteristics of distilled water.
Each filter within this review produced an improved version of the garden hose water and didn't impart any initial flavors to the final sample. If your water source has chlorinated, metallic, or sulfuric flavors, consider a filter that performs well with these contaminants.
Imagine having access to bottled water quality straight directly from your faucet.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Setup and Use
We often take our utilities for granted; we flip a switch, and the lights illuminate, or we turn a tap, and water flows freely. A water filter should seamlessly integrate into this effortless experience. However, not all water filters are the same. They can differ significantly in user experience, particularly during setup and regular Use. Factors such as ease of installation, daily operation, long-term upkeep, and overall expense can influence your choice. Our testing team takes on the task of installation and evaluates the setup process and daily Use. We also consider the yearly cost of the filter and the maintenance routine.
The setup process can vary widely between the water filter types. Still, the installation and maintenance are similar within each type, with small variations in the tools needed, hardware, and instructional quality.
The pitcher and countertop models, including the Brita Tahoe, Pur Classic, ZeroWater, Berkey, and Bluevua, boast a seamless setup process and are practically ready for immediate Use right out of the box. This ensures a quick and effortless transition to enjoying freshly filtered water. Moreover, their maintenance is straightforward and efficient, typically involving simple filter changes. The Berkey and Bluevua models, in particular, offer easy access to the filters and require no tools, further simplifying the process for multiple filter replacements.
Every filter change comes with an associated cost. Take, for instance, the Brita Tahoe, which boasts the lowest annual cost of any filter at $30, while on the other end of the spectrum, ZeroWater holds the highest at $56. Regarding countertop models, Berkey offers a significantly lower annual cost of $83, compared to Bluevua's steep $150.
Under-the-sink models such as iSpring, APEC Essence, APEC WFS, and Home Master necessitate a more intricate installation and maintenance process. These models require a few hours for installation and an additional faucet. However, they all offer DIY-friendly processes with comprehensive instructions. The APEC WFS stands out with its tankless design, saving both time and space during installation. Despite its increased number of filters, the Homemaster earns points for its user-friendly design, ditching the filter wrench and adopting push-fit filters to simplify maintenance.
More filters and complex systems often translate to higher annual costs compared to pitcher models. For example, the iSpring RCC7 has an annual cost of $50, the lowest for reverse osmosis in our review, thanks to the lifespan and price of iSpring's filter set. The Essence is a close second in operating costs with an annual cost of $108.50. If the added cost of reverse osmosis doesn't align with your needs, the simple 3-stage APEC WFS-1000 offers a lower annual cost of $40.00 due to its reduced number of filters.
We took the time to install each filter set. Here you can see the required space for each model and the tankless WFS-1000 has the smallest footprint.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Daily use significantly contributes to user experience. Countertop and pitcher models often offer more features than under-the-sink models. The ZeroWater model utilizes an additional spout near the handle for easy water access, allowing you to place the filter on the edge of a countertop or fridge shelf for convenient water dispensing without lifting. This feature is especially helpful for young children. The PUR Classic features a dual-compartment design enabling water pouring while the upper section is still filtering. It also includes a filter light indicator signaling when it's time for a filter change. The Bluevua model, similar in design to a coffee machine, includes an LED screen to monitor filter health, water quality, and to set water amounts.
The Berkey's main appeal is its aesthetic.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Post-installation, most under-the-sink water filters offer similar user experiences. A significant differentiator is their overall efficiency. Reverse osmosis filters use water pressure to push clean water through the reverse osmosis filter, creating wastewater in the process. More efficient systems use less water for this process, reducing water waste and potential spikes in your water bill. The Home Master stands out as the most efficient reverse osmosis filter, operating at a 1:1 ratio, meaning it creates one gallon of wastewater for every gallon of filtered water. The iSpring and Bluevua operate at a 2:1 ratio. The APEC WFS-1000, an under-the-sink system that does not use reverse osmosis, produces no wastewater — a significant advantage for traditional systems.
Often you can capture and reuse wastewater from reverse osmosis systems and reuse it for activities like water plants.
The Essence has a sleek and modern faucet that can match any kitchen aesthetic.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Conclusion
Here at GearLab, we aim to provide you with first-hand knowledge from our testing experience so that you can purchase the best products that suit your needs and budget. For water filters, we looked closely at the subtle nuances that set the pitchers and countertop models apart from the under-the-sink versions. Whether you are looking to improve the taste of city water or want to have the perfect tasting replenishment for that wedding or backyard BBQ, we hope you now have the knowledge to buy the perfect water filter for you.
Pair this article with our buying advice article to make the best decision for your needs.
