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What filters water the best


Best water filters: 9 top picks for pure water at home

Owning one of the best water filters can transform the taste and cleanliness of your water, making your overall drinking experience more enjoyable. 

For many, these innovative designs are an absolute essential in the home. An inexpensive yet hugely impactful investment, a water filter can not only allow constant access to purified water whenever you need, but they can significantly reduce plastic waste, therefore helping the environment.

The best water filters are truly versatile when it comes to design. From counter filters for your kitchen or home office, bottles with water filters built-in, to more permanent designs that can attach to your faucet, there really are options for all.

Water filters work by removing and trapping sediment and contaminants, and identifying the best water filter for you will only lead to having a more satisfying experience as you hydrate.

Here, you'll find a thorough round-up of a number of different outstanding water filters, including details on inserts and sizes. You could also consider investing in one of the best hard water kettles, to ensure the boiling water that you consume is also filtered to its best.

Ecommerce Writer

Molly is the Ecommerce Writer for Homes & Gardens, and can often be found reviewing new appliances and buys for your home. She has tested out the LARQ water filter pitcher in this guide, and found it made a noticeable difference to the quality of drinking water in her home. It's also the sleekest filter jug you'll find, though it does require being charged from time to time in order for the filter element to work to its best ability.  

The 9 best water filters worth your investment

Why you can trust Homes & Gardens Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.

While we've not tried all of the best water filters in this guide, we have spent time researching and comparing only the very best designs, and included some of our favorite Homes & Gardens-approved models.

Explore our top 9 water filters below so you can enjoy the taste of fresh and clean water - whether you're on the go or at home.

LARQ Pitcher

Type: Pitcher
Filter life: 60 gallons
Dimensions: 9.5" x 10" inches

Reasons to buy
+ Advanced filtration method
+ Excellent tasting water

Reasons to avoid
- Requires some charging

We loved this LARQ design when we tested it, as it combines the practical elements of a pitcher with the advanced features you find in countertop filters. It has a two step filtration process, with an innovative filter that has been designed to ward off harsh contaminants and prioritize taste. Within the body of the pitcher, there is a rechargeable lithium polymer battery that works to destroy bio-contaminants at a molecular level, including viruses and mold.  

LifeStraw Filter

Type: Pitcher
Filter life: 264 gallons
Dimensions: 7 x 7 x 14 inches

Reasons to buy
+ Comes in glass and plastic
+ Plenty of colors to choose from 

Reasons to avoid
- Not the longest lasting filter out there 

We love the look of the LifeStraw Home Filter Pitcher, which has a range of colors to choose from and comes in either glass or BPA-free plastic. The seven-cup design means it will fit into most refrigerator doors while still catering to the whole family. 

The microfilter claims to last up to last a year with regular use and when it comes to the filtering function, there's a two-stage process present in order to make your water taste great.

AquaSana Filter

Type: Under-sink
Filter life: 500 gallons
Dimensions: 8. 25 x 4.25 x 9 inches

Reasons to buy
+ Great price
+ Low running costs

Reasons to avoid
- DIY installation process 

When properly installed: the two-stage filtration system in the AquaSana Under Sink Filter will remove up to 97 per cent of chlorine, as well as lead, asbestos, herbicides, and pesticides; dealing with upwards of 60 common water contaminants with every use, and at a flow rate of only 0.5 gallons per minute. All-in-all, owners have agreed that their water tastes exceptionally better after implementing this system. 

Brita Ultra Max Dispenser

Type: Dispenser
Filter life: 120 gallons
Dimensions: 5.1 x 14 x 9.6 inches

Reasons to buy
+ Won't take up much space
+ Dispenser with large capacity

Reasons to avoid
- Heavy to refill

If you like the idea of having a lot of filtered water readily available but don’t want the DIY hassle of an under-counter or countertop filter, the Brita Ultra Max Dispenser could be for you. With an 18-cup capacity, this slimline dispenser has enough water for the entire family. It’s designed to sit on a counter without taking up too much space, but you can slide it into a refrigerator, too. As this is a large item and heavy when filled with water, there’s a spigot on the front for filling up cups or bottles, and it has a decent flow rate.

Cleanwater4less System

Type: Countertop
Filter life: 10,000 gallons
Dimensions: 5 x 5 x 9.5 inches

Reasons to buy
+ Simple installation
+ Well priced

Reasons to avoid
- No replaceable filters

The Cleanwater4less Countertop Water Filtration System is easy to install, with a universal diverter valve that should connect directly to most faucets. In terms of value with this filter, it is one of the better ones on the market, and with a system rated to purify 10,000 gallons of water, it is sure to impress. The integrated filter isn’t as extensive as some other products but is said to reduce chlorine by 97 per cent, plus it can deal with volatile organic compounds and sediment. 

Waterdrop Pitcher

Type: Pitcher
Filter life: 200 gallons
Dimensions: 10.40 x 5.30 x 10.00 inches

Reasons to buy
+ Well priced
+ Good capacity

Reasons to avoid
- Filter itself can be tricky

While filter jugs can be an expensive option, Waterdrop Lucid is one of the best value choices out there. Its 10-cup capacity is a good balance between size and portability, and the filter lasts for 200 gallons before it needs to be replaced. Lastly, this choice turns to a seven stage filtration system to improve the taste and quality of your water. 

Apex Filter

Type: Countertop
Filter life: 750 gallons
Dimensions: 6 x 6 x 14 inches

Reasons to buy
+ Looks great
+ Clean-tasting water

Reasons to avoid
- Filter can be hard to replace 

The Apex Countertop Drinking Water Filter comes equipped with a clear filter that is sure to be a talking point for anyone in your kitchen. Much like any other typical countertop model, this choice connects directly to your faucet, and it’s fed directly with tap water. Designed to last for up to 750 gallons and removing chlorine, sediment, radon, and more, this easy-to-install option will look sensational in any kitchen.

Pentair Rocean The Reservoir

Type: Countertop
Filter life: 390 gallons
Dimensions: 8.8 x 10.5 x 11.9 inches

Reasons to buy
+ Sustainable design
+ Removes a large number of contaminants

Reasons to avoid
- Larger than some other designs

We love the modern, sustainable design of The Reservoir Filter by Pentair Rocean - a Red Dot Design Winner in 2021. Crafted from recycled materials - with a plant based, coconut shell carbon filter, the design can fit neatly onto a countertop, bringing both fresh, clean water and style to your kitchen. Powered by InstaClean™ Technology and certified to reduce 76 contaminants, the easy-assembly design requires no plumbing or installation.

LARQ Water Bottle

Type: Bottle  
Filter life: N/A
Dimensions: 9.6 x 2.7 x 2.7 inches

Reasons to buy
+ Kills germs and viruses
+ Self cleaning

Reasons to avoid
- Quite expensive 

The LARQ Bottle is slightly different from the other products on this list as it doesn’t have a filter; instead, it uses a rechargeable battery in the lid to power a UV light that kills bacteria and viruses, making water safe to drink. There are two cleaning modes: typical is for regular tap water, where you’ve got a fair idea of how trustworthy the source is; Adventure mode is a longer cycle for less reliable sources. 

How we chose the best water filters 

At Homes & Gardens we like to have hands-on experience wherever we can with products that we feature in our buying guides, as we explore in our guide to how we test.  

In the case of water filters, we haven't had the opportunity to test every single top-rated option just yet, but water filters, jugs and bottles are on our agenda to test at home, and there's an explanation below on who has tested the filters we have experienced ourselves.

The options that we are yet to test have been chosen based on a number of criteria, including what shoppers are searching for and user reviews that give true insights into what the filter is like. We've also looked carefully at the sustainable credentials of each, and how long the filter will last.

Browse more water filters

Securing the optimum water filter for your home is essential for hydration you enjoy. If you're still on the lookout for your ideal filter, then head to our recommended retailers to select your favorite:

How do I choose a water filter? 

All water filters work in the same way: tap water passes through a filter that removes contaminants. There are different styles of filter, though.

Under-counter water filters are designed to fit into a cabinet and usually come with a new faucet. These give you clean, filtered water at the same flow rate as your regular faucet. Although harder to install, you get the benefit of a single faucet to use for everything, and you can quickly use filtered water everywhere, from cooking to filling a water bottle to take away.

Countertop water filters work in a similar way to under counter, but they’re usually connected to your faucet. You get the same advantages as with an under-counter model, but these models are easier to install. Having a bulky device on your kitchen counter is the main downside.

Pitcher water filters have everything built into a jug. You fill up the top reservoir with tap water, and it’s filtered through to the bottom as clean water. These are quick and easy to use, and you can store a jug of filtered water ready for use. The downsides are that you need a jug double the size (half for tap; half for filtered), and there’s a short wait for filtered water every time you fill up.

Bottle water filters are designed for on-the-go use. They’re handy if you’re on the move and want to refill your water from anywhere.

What does a water filter remove?

Each water filter system is different, so you need to check carefully what each one offers and its particular features. It’s worth pointing out that bacteria are generally not removed by most water filters.

Water filters will generally all remove chlorine and prove to be roughly 90 per cent effective. Other contaminants include volatile organic compounds (harmful chemicals), heavy metals, and sediments. 

How often should I change the filter itself?

Filters are rated: by the gallon, and most water filter systems will track how much of the filter is used. Once it’s time to replace the filter, you’ll get a warning. Cheaper systems that don’t track actual usage will tell you how long each filter will last.

Typically, you should replace filters promptly, as they’ll stop working effectively, and you may as well have non-filtered water.

The 9 Best Water Filters of 2023

The Spruce Eats Top Picks

The five-stage filtering system, ease of installation, and fresh, clean taste of water put the APEC ROES-50 Reverse Osmosis System at the top of our list. If you want a filter that attaches to the faucet, the PUR PFM400H Faucet Water Filtration System is a perfect and attractive fit.

Water filters help improve the flavor of your water and protect you from certain impurities, such as rust particles, bacteria, and lead. Sure, bottled water is easily available as a quick and (initially) cheap solution, but water filters are much more sustainable, help you conserve water, and can save you money in the long run.

There are countless types of water filters available on the market, each differing in what they remove from your water. These include under-sink filters, faucet attachments, whole-house filtration systems, pitcher filters, and more. While there isn't a one-size-fits-all filter solution, we help narrow down the list of best water filters based on your needs, so you have clean water—and even better tasting coffee.

FYI

Each item included in this roundup has either been certified by the NSF, a health and safety standards testing company, or tested and certified by an independent third party to meet NSF standards.

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A highly efficient system and also an attractive option, this reverse osmosis filtration system is designed to be placed under the sink; it can, however, also be placed in a basement or attached garage with the water routed to the sink with the included faucet. Along with the typical lead and other heavy metals, bacteria, and chlorine, this removes as many as 1,000 different unwanted contaminants from water.

This system uses five separate stages of filtration to remove 99 percent of contaminants. It has a sediment filter, two stages of carbon filters, a reverse osmosis filter, and a coconut fiber filter. Filters need to be changed at different intervals; the first three last six to 12 months, while the two stages can last two to four years.

Installation is designed to be a DIY project, but specialized tools may be required to install the faucet if there isn’t already a hole drilled into the sink or counter. Still, most reviewers like that the instructions are very clear and that the system is relatively quick and easy to install.

Price at time of publish: $260

Type: Under-sink | Certified By: WQA | Contaminants Filtered: Chlorine, VOCs, fluoride, lead nitrates, heavy metals +more | Filter Replacement Frequency: Stages 1-3 every 6-12 months, stages 4-5 every 2-4 years

What Our Experts Say

"Counterfeits are a problem for a number of reasons. First and foremost, they likely won’t remove the contaminants you expect them to and could therefore pose a health risk. Also, if they are made with substandard materials that leach, they could actually make your water worse. The number one indicator of a counterfeit is price. Counterfeit filters and replacement cartridges usually cost significantly less than authentic certified products." — Rick Andrew, Director of NSF International's Global Business Development

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When an under-sink filter is too much trouble but pitchers aren’t sufficient, a faucet attachment is an alternative option. Many customers who rated this filter highly did so because of how simple it is to install: It mounts easily to the existing faucet without any tools. Plus, it removes a host of common contaminants like lead and other heavy metals, chlorine, pesticides, and more. The internal filter is easy to change, which is necessary every two to three months based on average water use. A sensor checks the filter and indicates when it’s time for a change, so there’s no need to track time or usage.

Since there are plenty of times when filtered water isn’t required, this makes it simple to switch filtering on and off—so drinking water is clean and cold brew coffee tastes right, but the dishes can be rinsed in unfiltered water. This attachment includes three different adapters to fit common faucets, but it won’t work with pull-down or handheld faucets.

Price at time of publish: $48

Type: Faucet attachment | Certified By: NSF, WQA | Contaminants Filtered: Lead, mercury, certain pesticides +more | Filter Replacement Frequency: Ever 3 months or 100 gallons

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Most water filtration systems are designed for kitchen use only, but if the local water supply is so off-putting that brushing your teeth makes your mouth feel dirtier than before, a whole-house filtration system may be the best option. Not only will the water from all the faucets be clean and drinkable, but the water for your shower or tub will also be filtered.

This system filters and conditions the water, so it removes heavy metals, chlorine, pesticides, and contaminants. Several customers who typically deal with hard city water treated with heavy chlorine claim that the odor was completely removed and their water was softened adequately. A less expensive option that filters but doesn’t condition is also available, as are several other filtering options, so there’s something for every need. The system itself is rated to last for 10 years or 1 million gallons, but filters need to be changed about every three months.

Note that while all of Aquasana's filtering systems are NSF-certified to remove PFOA and PFOS, the whole-house system in its entirety is not certified because the company cannot guarantee that contaminants are not in the house's pipes and being picked up after going through the system.

Price at time of publish: $1,724

Type: Whole-house | Certified By: NSF | Contaminants Filtered: Chlorine, lead, pesticides, VOCs +more | Filter Replacement Frequency: Every 6-12 months

Good to Know

The CDC has a wealth of information to help you decide which type of water filter is best for your home. One word of caution about whole-house systems: According to the CDC, "Filtering that removes chlorine might increase the growth of germs in all the pipes in your house."

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This pitcher holds 7 cups, so it won’t take up a lot of space in the refrigerator or on the counter next to your other small kitchen appliances. It’s great for filtering drinking water for singles or small families and is small enough to bring to the office or on trips. While it might take several batches to fill a large pot for making stock, this will work well for small cooking tasks.

This filter removes chromium, lead, and other heavy metals, along with all solids. Several reviewers commented that the filtered water tastes just as good as, if not better than, bottled water. The filter also includes a water-quality meter, so users can test their water before and after filtering. How often you replace the filter depends on the contaminant level of your water, but most places within the United States fall within the 25- to 40-gallon range.

Price at time of publish: $21

Type: Pitcher | Certified By: NSF | Contaminants Filtered: Dissolved solids (chromium, lead), chlorine | Capacity: 7 cups | Filter Replacement Frequency: When water quality meter reads 006 or higher (roughly every 25 to 40 gallons)

The Best Countertop Water Filters for Delicious Water on Demand

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Let’s face it: Most water filter pitchers are built for function, but they don’t look great for serving. The last thing a host wants is for guests to be wondering how bad the water really is, so this pitcher hides the filter from view with an attractive design element. Since it filters as it pours, you just fill it and bring it to the table to fill water glasses. Most customers are happy with the flavor of the filtered water; however, some note that it pours more slowly the less water there is in the pitcher.

This holds 12 cups and is designed to fit the fridge, so it’s ready to dispense chilled water when you want it. It has an electronic filter change reminder, so you don’t have to chart time or usage. It’s made from BPA-free plastic, and the filters are recyclable through TerraCycle.

Price at time of publish: $31

Type: Pitcher | Certified By: WQA | Contaminants Filtered: Chlorine, particulates (class VI), trichlorobenzene | Capacity: 12 cups | Filter Replacement Frequency: Every 2 months or 40 gallons

The 5 Best Water Filter Pitchers in 2023

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This countertop dispenser holds 30 cups of water, which eliminates the need to filter batch after batch for larger families or cooking projects. It’s certified to remove 99 percent of lead, along with 22 other contaminants, and can filter up to 40 gallons of water before the filter needs to be changed. 

The proprietary filter cap ensures that only filtered water moves from the top reservoir to the bottom, so unfiltered water won’t mix in. This is designed to fit in the sink for convenient filling and is well balanced, so it’s easy to move to the counter where it will be used. Several customers say the dispenser was very easy to set up and operate, though some note that it takes some time to filter water.

Price at time of publish: $43

Type: Countertop | Certified By: WQA | Contaminants Filtered: Lead, chlorine +more | Capacity: 18 cups | Filter Replacement Frequency: Every 2 months

What Our Experts Say

"Be sure to do your due diligence as a consumer and compare filters and replacement cartridges. If something seems too good to be true, then there is a good chance it may be a counterfeit." — Rick Andrew, Director of NSF International's Global Business Development

The Best Countertop Water Filters for Delicious Water on Demand

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There may be some instances when you only need to filter one serving of water, like at work, on vacation, or on a hike. In this case, your best option may be a water filter water bottle, such as the Brita Hard Sided Water Bottle.

This handy 26-ounce water bottle is made from BPA-free hard plastic, and it has a built-in carbon filter that will remove impurities from up to 40 gallons of tap water. The water bottle is dishwasher-safe and fits in most car cup holders. The manufacturer recommends changing the filter every two months, and reviewers say it's the perfect reusable water bottle to take on vacation to areas where you might not have clean tap water.

Price at time of publish: $32

Type: Water bottle | Certified By: WQA | Contaminants Filtered: Chlorine taste and odor | Capacity: 26 ounces | Filter Replacement Frequency: Every 2 months of 40 gallons

Good to Know

Some self-filtering water bottles are only effective for treated municipal water, whereas others can handle water with a greater contaminant load. For your safety, before you buy a filtered water bottle for traveling to places without easily accessible drinking water, check the specifications to make sure it can handle more than treated city water.

The 10 Best Reusable Water Bottles of 2023

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This water filter removes chlorine and heavy metals but leaves behind the minerals that help water taste good, so it’s perfect for a refreshing drink or for making tea, lemonade, or cocktails. Unlike under-sink filters that filter all the water used—including water for washing dishes—this comes with a dedicated faucet so you can have filtered water when you want it, while not wasting filtered water for washing and rinsing.

This can produce up to 0.75 gallons of filtered water per minute, so there’s no waiting when filling a pitcher. Even users with no experience with plumbing praised the ease of installation, and they also praised the easy filter replacement. According to the manufacturer, changing the filter takes just three seconds.

The filter is good for 8,000 gallons of water before it needs to be replaced, but for people who use a lot of water, a 16,000-gallon model is also available. For renters or people who don’t want to drill a hole for the dedicated faucet, there are models that connect to the faucet to filter all of the water.

Price at time of publish: $67

Type: Under-sink | Certified By: WQA | Contaminants Filtered: Chlorine, sediment, rust, and other heavy metals | Filter Replacement Frequency: 8,000 gallons (roughly 12 months)

Good to Know

The CDC notes that no filter can eliminate all contaminants, and many are specialized. To know what contaminants need to be removed, certified labs can test water from private wells or cisterns. For city water consumers, a Consumer Confidence Report is sent annually with the water bill.

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Users rave about this under-sink filtration system, saying it drastically improves water taste and quality, is easy to install, and is very cost-effective. It filters quickly and efficiently, so it doesn't impede the speed of your water flow. It seems to be an activated carbon filter, and although the system's marketing does not clarify which filtration method is used, it has been tested to meet NSF/ANSI standards.

One thing that some users note is that the filters are tricky to change, even though the initial installation is so easy. Likewise, it's not entirely clear when the filters need to be replaced; they may need to be replaced as often as every eight months for water sources with heavy contaminant loads or as infrequently as every two years for less-contaminated water sources. Overall, despite some filter replacement challenges, users say they still absolutely love this system.

Price at time of publish: $100

Type: Under-sink | Certified By: IAPMO R&T against NSF/ANSI 42/53 | Contaminants Filtered: Lead, chlorine, heavy metals, VOCs, and more | Filter Replacement Frequency: Every 8 months to 2 years depending on water quality

The 8 Best Drinking Glasses of 2023, Tested and Reviewed

Final Verdict

The APEC Top Tier 5-Stage Ultra Safe Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Filter System earns our top spot because of its five-stage filtering system and simple installation. If neither under-sink filters nor pitchers are options, try the PUR PFM400H Faucet Water Filtration System; it's attractive, effective, and you don't need tools to install it.

What to Look for in a Water Filter

Filtration Method


The contaminants that a water filter can remove will depend in part on what type of filtration method it uses. Some filters are designed to remove microbes like bacteria, some remove particulates like dirt and microplastics, some remove heavy metals, and some remove a combination. The following are common types of filters and the contaminants they typically remove:

Purpose

Water filters can remove contaminants like heavy metals and man-made chemicals from your water. If you are on well water, have old pipes, or live in an area with unsafe drinking water, you may need a water filter to remove contaminants like lead or actual particles like sand.

If you are on city water, you can look at the annual water reports to see what kinds of contaminants are in that water. Even if your municipal water is safe, you may have old pipes that could be leaching contaminants into your water. Adding a water filter can help remove those impurities and is much more convenient than water delivery services.  Filters certified to remove chlorine, for example, can also encourage hydration by making water more enjoyable to drink.

Independent Certifications 

Because effective filtration is so important (and because it’s so hard to actually be able to tell if it’s working), certification is one of the only ways you can actually be sure your water filter is removing the contaminants its packaging claims. The NSF is one certifying body—other certifications to look for are the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the Water Quality Association (WQA). There is no one-size-fits-all certification, so it’s important to know what you want removed from your water. For example, the NSF offers certification for removing a certain amount of chlorine and a separate one for removing lead. The more certifications a filter has, the more contaminants it can remove. 

Rick Andrew of NSF International cautions that you just need to make sure your filter is actually certified. Marketing jargon to look out for includes “filters to NSF standards,” which does not mean it has been independently tested. An earlier version of our list included several water filters that were removed based on similar language that made it unclear whether they were independently tested.

Capacity

You will want to consider your household’s water consumption when purchasing a filter. A smaller pitcher may be fine for a dorm or apartment, but for larger households or using filtered water for cooking, faucet or under-sink filters may make more sense. Refilling a pitcher doesn’t take a huge amount of time, but if you need to do it several times a day, it can be a pain.

Filter Replacement

Filter cost and replacement frequency is another thing to consider. A water filtration system is only as good as its filters, so be sure to factor in their price, availability, and frequency of needing to be replaced. Some filters require their inserts to be replaced every couple of months, whereas some types can go a year or so before they need to be replaced. Make sure to pay attention to the manufacturer's instructions, since neglecting to replace a filter can result in a drastic drop in its effectiveness.

Cost

Water filtration systems can cost up to thousands of dollars, while smaller pitchers can go for around $20. You can get an affordable water filter for personal use without spending much, but make sure to look for certifications. Also, consider the cost of the water filter and how often it will have to be replaced when deciding what you want to spend. 

Types of Water Filters

When we think of water filters, a pitcher is the first thing that comes to mind, but filters can be used at almost every point of water's journey through your home. 

Whole-Home Systems 

Whole-home systems filter all the water coming into your home. The most common kind, says Andrew, "is a water softener that will help remove minerals and 'soften' your water." Since hard water is bad for pipes and water fixtures, a whole-house filtration system makes the most sense. Because this type of system filters water for the whole house, it's often expensive and time-intensive to set up. 

There are two reasons to get a water filtration system, explains Andrew. For drinking water in the United States, it's more likely that you’ll want a filter to improve taste or remove hard minerals and protect your pipes. Hard water (i.e., water with high mineral content) can damage pipes and water fixtures with buildup.

Under-Sink 

If you are filtering for contaminants or taste in your drinking water, a point-of-use filter is also an option. These can be filters that attach to the sink or under the sink where you get drinking water. Andrew emphasizes that whole-house filtration, unless you are on a well, is generally only for softening water, and that these point-of-use systems are sufficient if you’re filtering out contaminants. Under-sink filters are often easier to install than whole-home systems, but are more expensive than faucet attachments or pitchers.  

Faucet Attachments 

Like under-sink filters, faucet attachments offer instant access to filtered water at a place where you would be getting drinking water, such as the kitchen sink. These filters can typically be attached to most standard sinks, though they won't work with some other sink setups, such as a pull-down faucet with a spray nozzle. A faucet attachment will typically allow you to filter only the water you want to drink and let unfiltered water come through for things like washing dishes. If you are only filtering to improve taste, this should be sufficient. This type of system also puts less pressure on the filter by only filtering the water you need. 

Pitchers

Pitchers don’t offer the convenience of a sink filter because they need to be refilled, but Andrew says, "Some people prefer pitchers because they allow you to chill filtered water, which can make it more enjoyable to drink." It’s also the easiest to set up. Furthermore, if you are only filtering water for taste, you may find a faucet filter to be bulky and unnecessary while you do things like wash hands or dishes at the sink. Again, this comes down to preference, and both faucet attachments and pitchers are capable of filtering out contaminants. 

Countertop 

Countertop water filtration systems work similarly to faucet filters by diverting water from the sink into a filtration system with its own tap. Other countertop filtration systems need to be filled, acting like water coolers, and these can be bulkier than pitchers but require less frequent refilling. They do offer the advantage of allowing you to place filtered water anywhere in your home, away from a water source. 

Bottles

Special water bottles can filter water as you fill the bottle or drink, and they can be certified by the NSF and ANSI. Water bottles can be a great option if you want to drink filtered water on the go, and they're a great alternative to buying bottled water. However, certain filter bottles are only designed to remove contaminants from treated municipal water, so if you want a water filter for hiking or traveling in places without clean drinking water, you’ll need to be extra sure that the filtration system you're buying can remove bacteria and other organisms.  

While filters of all types can do a great job of removing contaminants, Andrew says, "No filter can actually remove all contaminants." Any filter that claims it can remove all or 100 percent of contaminants is misrepresenting itself, and no certifying body would verify those claims. "The technology just doesn’t exist," Andrew says. 

Brands

Brita

Nowadays, the term “Brita pitcher” has basically come to mean a filtered water pitcher. Brita’s filters all come with NSF certifications, and its pitchers are popular for their ease of use—drop a filter into the pitcher, and you’re good to go. Brita also offers a wide array of pitchers and filtration systems, including faucet filters and water bottles. Brita does not offer under-sink or whole-home filtration systems, however, and not all Brita filters are created equal. Depending on what you want filtered out of the water, make sure to check for those certifications. 

PUR 

PUR and Brita offer very similar products: basic filters that remove impurities for taste as well as mercury and other contaminants, and more expensive filters that can also remove lead and an even higher percentage of contaminants. PUR does offer the most certifications in its basic and more expensive filter. 

APEC

APEC offers a whole-house filtration system in addition to countertop filtration systems. The company’s whole-home systems are designed to remove things like odor and chlorine as well as minerals that can cause scaling on appliances. 

Maintenance 

Water filter systems, no matter the size or type, are not a one-and-done purchase. Filters don’t last forever; they'll eventually stop effectively filtering water. This can have two effects, Andrew says. For starters, the water can start to flow more slowly through the filter itself. More seriously, the filter can stop effectively filtering water, letting the contaminants stay in the water. Filters all come with a lifespan, from a few months to a few years. NSF certifications test to ensure that the filter can continue to remove contaminants for as long as its listed lifespan and even allow for a little bit of time on the end.  

“But at some point, it's just not going to work anymore,” Andrew says. Replacing your water filter per manufacturer instructions is just as important as purchasing the right filtration system in the first place. 

Accessories 

As brands try to set themselves apart in the filtration space, different accessories and add-ons have popped up, such as Bluetooth capabilities and sensors to monitor filter effectiveness. While these can be appealing bells and whistles, they are not necessary; if you follow manufacturer guidelines on replacing filters, for example, the sensor isn't needed. Ultimately, what matters is if the filter itself is capable of removing the impurities you want removed. 

FAQs

Do you need a water filter?


In short, it depends on your water supply. Some tap and well water supplies are completely safe to drink without filtering first, whereas some municipalities' water reports will show contaminants that you may want to filter out. Likewise, the pipes where you live may be old and prone to leaching contaminants like heavy metals into an otherwise-fine water supply. If you simply don't like the taste or smell of your tap water, a relatively inexpensive filter can help remove the chlorine and take care of the issue.

Which water filters remove the most contaminants?

While there are a variety of water filtration systems, no one type is inherently better (or worse) at filtering out contaminants. The same types of filters can remove different contaminants depending on how it was manufactured and certified. This is why experts recommend knowing what kinds of contaminants you want to be removed rather than simply looking for a filter that removes a lot of contaminants. If you are unsure of what is in your local water, you can get a water report. 

Do water filters remove bacteria? 

"NSF certifies filters that remove bacteria under a standard called P231," says Andrew, but those tend to be designed for activities like camping, when you may need to drink water from a stream. If you have specific concerns about bacteria in your drinking water, be sure to buy a filtration system certified specifically to remove bacteria. When in doubt, you can boil your filtered or unfiltered water as an added safety precaution against bacteria.

Can you filter any type of water? 

In short, absolutely. Water filters can be used for city and well water and on both soft and hard (high mineral level) water. Just be aware of what you are hoping to remove; a whole-house system specifically designed to remove minerals from hard water, for example, won’t work the same as a pitcher that removes chlorine for flavor. 

Do water filters remove fluoride? 

Yes, certain types do. If you have a preference, be sure to check your filter’s certification. 

Do water filters remove PFAS?


There are water filters that remove polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) very effectively and filters that only have partial efficacy in removing them. If this is an area of concern for you, make sure you pick a filter that specifies removing PFAS.

How long do water filters last? 

Water filtration systems are only as good as the filters within them. Nearly all are designed to be replaced, and all certifications are done with the life of the filter in mind. So if your filter needs to be replaced every six months, NSF will test each filter to ensure a six-month lifespan. If filters are replaced regularly, the filtration system itself can last for years. 

Why Trust The Spruce Eats?

Donna Currie has lived and worked in areas of the country where the water was rated in the top 10 in the country…and she’s lived in areas where the water was decidedly unpleasant. Over the years, she’s tested a variety of models and done her research on the rest.

Commerce editors Taylor Rock and Fran Sales researched and contributed to this piece, as did Katya Weiss-Andersson, a writer and editor who has nearly a decade of experience as a professional chef.

Sources


Rick Andrew is the Director of Global Business Development of Water Systems at the National Science Foundation. He has 30 years of experience in preserving and maintaining clean drinking water and is responsible for NSF’s global sales and structuring of water-related programs.

The 6 Best Soda Makers of 2023, Tested and Reviewed

rating of water purification filters for home

Polina Morovova-Sheyner

does not drink tap water

Author profile

When scale forms in the kettle, you don’t want to drink such water.

To make it cleaner, you can install a filter. The simplest and cheapest is a jug filter. On Yandex Market, prices for them start at 590 R. But there are other options, among which I chose the best.

Selection criteria

Filtering capacity. Filters have one cartridge - block, module, cassette, stage - and there are several. The more of them, the more levels of purification the water goes through and, as a result, it turns out cleaner and safer. Cartridges contain a filler or liner that traps dirt and dangerous particles.

Filter life. This is the maximum amount of water that the filter can pass through and clean. You can pour more, but then the water will pass as it is.

Installation location. The filter can be placed on a table, attached to a faucet, attached to a shower, installed next to a sink, under it or on a pipe. Some take up little space, such as mug-sized faucet nozzles. And for ten-liter filter systems, you need a whole cabinet.

Price per liter of finished water. Each cartridge has an amount of resource that it can filter. I divided the cost of the cartridge by the yield. For calculation, I took cassettes for hard water from all filters.

Consumables. Every filter needs to change cartridges. There are no such things to put once and for the whole life. Here I estimated the frequency and cost of replacing cassettes and other spare parts.

Filter features. Features of work and care, what can break, what needs to be tightened up, what is included.

I evaluated the filters based on reviews on marketplaces, studied English-language selections and recommendations. I chose the most worthy ones with ratings from 4.5 to 5. The list of final nominees:

  1. Grand Neo Barrier 4.2 liters.
  2. Geyser 1UZh Euro.
  3. Aquaphor Crystal.
  4. Allegro Geyser.
  5. Aquaphor Topaz.
  6. "Aquabright ABF-3 ½".

References

Tabletop Optimal Perfect cleaning
Barrier Grand Neo Aquaphor Crystal Allegro Geyser
Jug with monthly cassette. Popular simple two-liter filter Waste-free and powerful filter for soft water. Cassettes can be reused High flow reverse osmosis filter. Gives a lot of clean water and takes up a lot of space
On Yandex Market - from 699 R On Yandex Market - from 3190 R On Yandex Market - from 8500 R
Compact and budget Coarse
Geyser 1UZh Euro Aquabright ABF-3 ½
Screwed onto the tap, one cassette, enough for six months Cleans the water in the pipe from sand and rust. You can't drink it, but the filter protects pipes and equipment
On Yandex Market - from 2523 R On Yandex Market - from 1409 R

Tabletop

Barrier Grand Neo

Jug with monthly cassette. Popular simple two-liter filter

On Yandex Market - from 699 Р

Optimal

Aquaphor Crystal

Waste-free and powerful filter for soft water. Cassettes can be reused

On Yandex Market — from 3190 Р

Perfect cleaning

Geyser Allegro

Reverse osmosis filter with high water consumption. Gives a lot of clean water and takes up a lot of space

On the Yandex Market - from 8500 R

Compact and budgetary

Geyser 1UZh Euro

Screwed onto a tap, one cassette, lasts for six months

On Yandex Market — from 2523 Р

For coarse cleaning

Aquabright ABF-3 ½

Cleans water in the pipe from sand and rust. You can’t drink it, but the filter saves pipes and equipment

On Yandex Market - from 1409 R

But we do not distort or embellish the reviews. The choice of specific things does not depend on whether we receive a commission.

Product reviews in Tinkoff Magazine are independent. We make a verdict based on reviews of things and devices that we carefully studied, or how these things performed during editorial tests.

For reviews, we either request products from the manufacturer for a test, or we buy them ourselves, or we study reviews in other publications and user opinions. Our reviews are subjective, but honest and expert: opinions are written by authors who have more than one review behind them. The editorial team of Tinkoff Magazine double-checks the texts, proofreads them and conducts fact-checking.

All prices are at the time of publication of the material, but we update them periodically to keep the reviews up to date.

From £969

Barrier Grand Neo Tabletop Pitcher

Filter Pitcher is the most popular and simple filtration system. Fill it with tap water and wait for it to flow through the cassette.

Cassette contains compressed activated carbon. It makes the water softer: excess minerals settle in the coal, the content of iron, lead, and chloride content decrease. Carbon inserts are available in all types of filters.

Such a system usually costs about 1000 R per jug ​​and cartridge, and then you only need to buy additional cartridges. In most Russian regions, the water is rather hard, so you should take special cassettes for hard water and change them every couple of months.

It is cheaper to buy a set of cassettes, they are often discounted: for example, by the piece - 397 R, and for six cassettes - 1848 R, 308 R per piece. If the water flows too fast or, conversely, super slow, it means that the filter is clogged and it's time to change it.

This large capacity jug is only 4.2 liters. Of these, 1.7 liters is a funnel, a place for water from a tap, and about 2.2 liters is clean water.

The jug is dishwasher safe, the lid should be cleaned with a damp cloth. To pour water from it, you need to press the lid above the handle - some users say that this is a drawback. If this is not done, water will flow in all directions and blow off the lid.

/reverse-osmosis/

Crystal clear water and no scale: 5 reasons to choose a reverse osmosis filter How much:

A smaller alternative to is the Tokyo Barrier XS Opti-light pitcher. The total volume is 2.5 liters. It is half the size of the "Grand Neo" - it fits in the refrigerator door. It produces about 1.2 liters of pure water. "Opti-light" made of transparent plastic, it can be washed in a dishwasher. There is a cassette consumption indicator on the cover so as not to forget to change it. This is the lid opening counter and its reset button.

Cartridges for it - cassettes for filter-jugs "Barrier hardness 6", cost 370 R per piece or 1850 R for six pieces. A liter of pure water - 0.88 R.

How much:

A larger alternative to is the Brita Flow XXL dispenser. The dispenser is a huge jug. The total volume is 8.2 liters. Takes up space on a table the size of an A4 sheet. The filter resource is 300 liters, which is slightly less than other jugs. But cleaning is not single-level, but three-level: from scale and chlorine, iron and small particles, organic impurities and bacteria. A filter for a month, immediately gives a large volume of water - about 5 liters, purifies water to the level of bottled water.

Cartridges are called "Brita Maxtra+ hardness expert", cost 750 R per piece or 1599 R for four pieces. A liter of pure water - 1.3 R.

From 4550 R

Optimal - "Aquaphor Crystal"

"Crystal" is a three-stage soft water purification system with a separate faucet. It is installed under the sink to the cold water faucet. When you open the faucet, water gradually flows through three filter cartridges. You can drink it. The flow rate is 2.5 liters per minute. That is, an ordinary kettle with a volume of 1.7 liters will be filled in less than a minute.

To install the system, you will need to remove the faucet next to the sink. To do this, you will have to drill a hole in the countertop or sink with a diameter of 10 mm.

Cassettes purify water from sand, dust, rust, chlorine, pesticides, microorganisms. Cassette resource - 8000 l. This is enough for 6-12 months of daily use for soft water. If the water is closer to hard, the filters will clog quickly, perhaps in 1-3 months. Then you should replace them with cassettes for hard water of the Crystal format. If you know that your water is hard, install a hard water treatment system right away.

There are different types of replacement modules. It is important to use the Crystal format modules, others, such as Standard or Trio, will not work: the size is not the same. Kristall has a convenient system for quick replacement of cartridges: put it in, turn it, it clicks and locks.

Filters can be regenerated every 3-6 months until modules are completely replaced. They need to be taken out, washed and cleaned. Detailed mechanics are in the instructions for the system.

Includes soft water cassette. They cost 2467 R for a set of three modules. Cassettes for hard water — 2557 R per set. The cost of a liter of clean water from any cassette is 0.3 R.

Annual maintenance: in the first year the filter system will cost 3190 R, a set of modules - 2557 R, total 5114 R. From the second year - 2557 R.

/ guide / h3o /

How to choose a water treatment system for a private house

How much it costs:

Alternative for hard water - "Geyser Standard" for hard water. Three-stage cleaning system for washing, but immediately for hard water. The resource of cassettes from the kit is 12,000 liters. Before installation, it is important to read the instructions. It describes that the cartridges are not fully secured and must be tightened tightly before installation. Otherwise, the cassettes will leak. The set includes a wrench for tightening. 10 Slim Line format cassettes, so any analogues are suitable.

A set of three cartridges of regular hardness "Geyser" standard 10" SL costs 1659 R. The resource of cassettes is up to 7000 liters, a liter of pure water is 0.24 R.

A set of three cartridges for super hard water "Geyser Max No. 17" costs Rs.

For installation there is a detailed clear instruction, keys, tubes and adapters. A drill will also come in handy for the holes for the faucet in the countertop and for the outlet to the sewer in the closet. The keys are specific, so don't lose them: they won't work for other filters. The tubes are conveniently marked with different colors, unlike others. For example, Aquaphor has only red and blue markings. When installing, you need to tighten the flasks with cassettes tightly, otherwise they will leak.

Water tank with a total volume of 12 liters, the actual volume is approx. 8 liters. Filters get dirty at different rates. The pre-treatment modules should be changed every six months, the membrane, mineralizer and post-filter - once every 1-2 years. Before starting work, the entire system must be flushed - instructions are included. The first set of water takes a long time - about three hours. Then the water is collected for about half an hour. Pure water is stored in a tank. It is advisable to use it within 2-3 days. And if you are leaving for a long time, drain completely so that it does not stagnate.

If scale still remains in the kettle after installation, it is worth checking that the hoses are attached correctly. If you confuse a hose into a tank and a hose into a drain, then clean water will go into the sewer, and running water will go into the kettle.

A set of cartridges for Allegro Geyser without a membrane cost from 1560 R for a set of four. You need to change it every 6-12 months. A liter of pure water - 0.22 R.

There are also cartridges without the Geyser Allegro mineralizer - from 1674 R for a set of five pieces. A liter of clean water - 0.44 R.

The most complete set of Allegro Geyser cassettes with a mineralizer — from 2950 R for six pieces. A liter of pure water is 0.49 R.

Community 07/26/22

How does calcined and rusty tap water affect health?

How much it costs:

Cheaper alternative - Aquabright ABF-OSMO-5.

Flasks with filter cartridges, transparent. This means that you can see when the cassette is dirty and you need to change it. You may need a pump to pump water if the pressure in the tap is low. Cassette size — 10 Slim Line. This filter is suitable for analogues of the same format for different types of water and pollution.

A complete set of five cartridges for reverse osmosis "Universal Aquabright" costs 1890 R. Two of them need to be changed every 1-2 years. A set of three cassettes for hard water should be changed every 3-6 months. This will cost 641 R. A liter of pure water costs 0.16 R if you buy three cassettes, and 0.5 R if you buy five cassettes. 1890 R. Then "Aquabright" will cost 9495 R. Further - 4454 R per year.

How much does the filter system cost: