Top 5 Best Water Filters 2024

Editorial By Editorial | September 12, 2024

**Staying hydrated** is **crucial** for feeling great and living healthy. However, tap water isn’t always the same; sometimes it can have **dangerous stuff** in it. This is why water filters are becoming super popular.

Water filters are devices that remove impurities from water by passing it through a physical or chemical barrier. They come in various forms, from pitchers that you keep in your fridge to under-sink filters that connect to your plumbing. In this article, we’ll be discussing the best water filters on the market.

When shopping for a water filter, there are a few critical things to consider. The first is the type of contaminants that the filter can remove. Some filters are better at removing specific impurities than others, so it’s essential to know what’s in your water before you buy a filter.

The second consideration is the filter’s flow rate. A filter with a slow flow rate may take a long time to fill a glass of water, while a filter with a fast flow rate may sacrifice effectiveness for speed. Finally, you’ll want to consider the filter’s lifespan and replacement cost. Some filters need to be replaced more frequently than others, and the cost of replacement filters can add up over time.

We spent hours researching and testing various water filters to identify the ones that provide the best combination of effectiveness, flow rate, and value. In the next section, we’ll discuss our top picks for the best water filters on the market.

Best Water Filters

We understand the importance of having access to clean drinking water. That’s why we’ve done the research to bring you the best water filters on the market. Our team has tested and reviewed various water filters to ensure that we’re recommending only the most reliable and effective options. Whether you’re looking for a countertop filter for your home or a portable option for outdoor activities, we’ve got you covered. Below are our top picks for the best water filters available.

ZeroWater 22-Cup Ready-Read 5-Stage Water Filter Dispenser

If you’re looking for a water filter that removes virtually all total dissolved solids for the purest tasting water, then the ZeroWater 22-Cup Ready-Read 5-Stage Water Filter Dispenser is a great choice.

Pros

Cons

We’ve been using the ZeroWater 22-Cup Ready-Read 5-Stage Water Filter Dispenser for a few months now, and we’ve been really happy with it. The integrated TDS meter is a great feature that lets us know when it’s time to change the filter, so we never have to worry about drinking water that’s not properly filtered.

The 5-stage filtration system removes virtually all total dissolved solids (TDS), which means that the water tastes great. We’ve noticed a significant difference in the taste of our tap water since we started using the ZeroWater dispenser.

The dispenser is NSF certified and BPA free, which gives us peace of mind knowing that we’re drinking safe and healthy water. The only downside is that the dispenser is quite large and may take up a lot of counter space. Additionally, the filtration process can be slow, so it may take some time to fill up the dispenser.

Overall, we would definitely recommend the ZeroWater 22-Cup Ready-Read 5-Stage Water Filter Dispenser to anyone looking for a high-quality water filter that removes virtually all total dissolved solids for the purest tasting water.

ZeroWater Official Replacement Filter – 5-Stage 0 TDS Filter Replacement – System IAPMO Certified to Reduce Lead, Chromium, and PFOA/PFOS, 4-Pack White 4-Pack Filter

If you’re looking for a water filter that can transform your tap water into the purest-tasting water, the ZeroWater filter is an excellent choice. It’s IAPMO certified to reduce PFOA/PFOS, lead, chromium, and mercury, making it a safe and healthy option for your drinking water.

Pros

Cons

We’ve been using the ZeroWater filter for several months now, and we’re impressed with its performance. The water tastes much cleaner and fresher than it did before, and we love that we’re not contributing to the plastic bottle problem. The 5-stage filtration system does an excellent job of removing virtually all TDS, leaving us with pure-tasting water every time.

One thing to keep in mind is that the filters can be a bit challenging to put on, and it can be tough to know when to change them. We recommend keeping track of the filter life using the TDS meter that comes with the filter. Also, be aware that the filter life can vary depending on water quality, so you may need to change them more or less frequently than estimated.

Overall, we highly recommend the ZeroWater filter to anyone looking for a high-quality water filter that provides pure-tasting water and is eco-friendly.

PUR PLUS Faucet Mount Water Filtration System

If you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use water filter, the PUR PLUS Faucet Mount Water Filtration System is a great option.

Pros

Cons

In our experience, the PUR PLUS Faucet Mount Water Filtration System is a great investment if you want to have cleaner and better-tasting drinking water at home. The filter does an excellent job of removing impurities and the filter change light is a convenient feature that ensures you always have fresh water.

The system is also easy to install and use, although you may need to spend some time figuring out which adapters to use if your faucet is not a standard size. However, once you get it set up, you can enjoy cost-effective and convenient access to clean drinking water.

Overall, we recommend the PUR PLUS Faucet Mount Water Filtration System for anyone who wants to improve the quality of their tap water without spending a lot of money or dealing with complicated systems.

APEC Water Systems ROES-50

If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient water filter system, the APEC Water Systems ROES-50 is definitely worth considering.

Pros

Cons

We were impressed by the APEC Water Systems ROES-50 and would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a high-quality water filter system. The system is designed to remove up to 99% of impurities, including chlorine, arsenic, lead, and fluoride. We found that the water produced by the system tasted clean, refreshing, and free of impurities.

Installation was a breeze, and we were able to set up the system without any issues. The instructions provided were clear and easy to follow. We also appreciated the fact that the system is designed, engineered, and assembled in the USA using high-quality parts. This ensures that you get a trouble-free and long-lasting system.

However, the system does take up quite a bit of space under the sink. If you have limited space, you may need to consider a smaller system. Additionally, the ROES-50 is not the most affordable option on the market. However, we believe that the quality of the product justifies the cost.

Overall, we were very satisfied with the APEC Water Systems ROES-50 and would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable and efficient water filter system.

Waterdrop Slim Water Filter Dispenser for Fridge

If you’re looking for a water filter dispenser that’s both slim and efficient, the Waterdrop Slim Water Filter Dispenser for Fridge might be the one for you.

Pros

Cons

We’ve been using the Waterdrop Slim Water Filter Dispenser for Fridge for a few weeks now, and overall, we’re pretty satisfied with its performance. The dispenser has a slim and stylish design that fits perfectly in our refrigerator, and it saves us a lot of space. The 35-cup capacity is more than enough for our family of four, and we don’t have to refill it too often.

The filter replacement indicator is a nice touch, as it reminds us when it’s time to change the filter. The filter itself is of high quality and has passed NSF42 & 372 certification. It effectively reduces odor, chlorine, and other substances to improve the taste and quality of the water.

However, we did notice that the filter system does not lower TDS value, which might be a dealbreaker for some users. We also experienced some leaking issues after a few weeks of use, but tightening the seal seemed to fix the problem. Replacement filters are a bit expensive, but they’re worth the investment if you want to keep enjoying clean and fresh water.

Overall, we would recommend the Waterdrop Slim Water Filter Dispenser for Fridge to anyone looking for a slim and efficient water filter dispenser. It’s a great investment that will save you space and money in the long run.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best water filter, there are several factors to consider. We recommend taking the following into account before making a purchase:

Filtration Technology

The filtration technology used in a water filter is a crucial factor to consider. There are several types of filtration technologies available, including activated carbon, reverse osmosis, and ultraviolet (UV) sterilization. Each technology has its advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice will depend on your specific needs.

Capacity

The capacity of a water filter refers to the amount of water it can filter before needing to be replaced. The capacity of a filter can vary widely, from a few hundred gallons to several thousand. It’s essential to consider your household’s water usage when choosing a filter with the appropriate capacity.

Certification

When choosing a water filter, it’s crucial to look for products that have been certified by independent organizations. Certification ensures that the filter meets specific standards for performance and safety. Look for filters certified by organizations such as NSF International or the Water Quality Association.

Maintenance

Maintenance is an essential factor to consider when choosing a water filter. Some filters require more maintenance than others, and it’s important to choose a filter that fits your lifestyle. Consider factors such as how often the filter needs to be replaced and how easy it is to clean.

Cost

Cost is always a consideration when making a purchase, and water filters are no exception. While it’s important to find a filter that fits your budget, it’s also essential to consider the long-term costs of maintenance and replacement filters.

In summary, when choosing the best water filter, it’s essential to consider factors such as filtration technology, capacity, certification, maintenance, and cost. By taking these factors into account, you can find a filter that meets your specific needs and provides clean, safe drinking water for you and your family.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated water filter pitchers according to consumer reports?

According to consumer reports, some of the top-rated water filter pitchers include Brita, PUR, and ZeroWater. These pitchers are known for their effectiveness in removing impurities from tap water and providing clean and safe drinking water.

Which water filtration systems are best for home use?

The best water filtration systems for home use depend on the specific needs of the household. Some popular options include under-sink filters, countertop filters, and whole-house filtration systems. Under-sink filters are great for those who want a permanent filtration solution, while countertop filters are ideal for those who want a portable option. Whole-house filtration systems are best for those who want to filter all the water that enters their home.

What type of drinking water filtration system offers the highest contaminant removal?

Reverse osmosis (RO) systems are known for their ability to remove the highest number of contaminants. These systems use a semi-permeable membrane to remove impurities, including dissolved solids, bacteria, and viruses.

How do countertop water filters compare to under-sink models in terms of effectiveness?

Countertop water filters and under-sink models are both effective in removing impurities from tap water. However, under-sink models are generally more effective as they have larger filters and more advanced filtration technology. Countertop filters are a good option for those who want a portable solution or have limited space.

What are the advantages of using a Berkey water filter?

Berkey water filters are known for their ability to remove a wide range of impurities, including bacteria, viruses, and heavy metals. They are also portable and do not require electricity or plumbing, making them a great option for camping or emergency preparedness.

In the comparison of LifeStraw versus Brita, which one provides better filtration?

LifeStraw and Brita are both effective in removing impurities from tap water. However, LifeStraw is designed for outdoor use and is more portable, while Brita is designed for home use and has a larger capacity. The choice between the two depends on the specific needs of the user.