More people have access to clean water than ever before and it’s easy to take it for granted. However, your drinking water might not be as perfectly clean as you think, and impurities aren’t always obvious.
Installing a countertop water filter means you will have access to convenient clean water whenever you need it. These units are easy to install and use but, with so many models available, you might be wondering where to start looking.
In this article, we will explain the benefits of a countertop water filtration system and what you should look for when buying one. Then, we will share our reviews of 10 of the best countertop water filters you can buy today, chosen for their capacity, material, and ease of use.
- Very quiet
- Free lifetime support
- 99% removal rate
- High pH alkaline filter system
- Includes standard connectors
- Filters last about 12 months
- NSF and FDA approved
- Connects to standard faucets
- BPA-free and lead-free
- Large 10,000 gallon capacity
- Five-stage filter
- Activated carbon filter
- FDA-approved
- Requires no installation
- Lifetime warranty
- Meets NSF/ANSI standards
- Transparent case
- Casing is available in 5 colors
- Advanced multi-stage granular filter
- Online video tutorial
- Replaceable filters last 3 months
- Large 1.13 gallon capacity
- Removes 99% of lead
- Electronic replacement indicator
- Holds 2.25 gallons of water
- Purifies up to 8,000 gallons of water
- Sleek metallic design
- Five-stage KDF-55 filter
- Meets NSF standards
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Product Reviews
By now, you probably have some idea of what you want from a filter, so it’s time for our countertop water filter reviews. We scoured the internet to find our 10 favorite filters, which we chose based on their ease of use, size, materials, and taste.
1. APEC Portable Countertop Water Filter
Best Compatibility
Ease of installation and use are important factors, as installing a water filter can be a complicated task. This filter is portable, lightweight, and has a case that protects the filter and improves its look.
It is an excellent fit for smaller homes such as apartments, condos, and motorhomes. You simply attach the filter to your faucet and enjoy clean water straight from your tap. APEC also claims it will improve the taste and smell of water.
This device has a large filter that removes a considerable amount of contaminants.
What We Like
Noise-Free
Some water filters can be noisy enough to wake your housemates, but this APEC model is almost silent. It only produces a quiet buzz, so there’s no need for earplugs!
Portable
If you are a frequent traveler or enjoy touring the country in your motorhome, this filter is ideal. It is lightweight and easy to pack, and the case acts as a safety barrier.
Easy Installation
Installing a water filter is sometimes best left to a plumber. However, John Guest’s quick-connection fittings mean this filter is a breeze to install. It also includes faucet adapters that connect to different types of faucets.
Lifetime Support
Even the best products will eventually encounter issues. However, this filter includes free lifetime support. APEC has a large team of WQA-Certified Water Specialists who will provide you with technical support whenever it is needed.
99% Removal Rate
This filter uses a reverse osmosis process to clean your water of impurities such as arsenic, chromium, fluoride, lead, and copper. It will be suitable for almost every home and water quality.
What We Don't Like
Slows Flow Rate
Some customers observed that the filter slowed their water flow rate significantly. One way to overcome this is by keeping a full pitcher or jug of water to drink, but not all filters will have this issue.
Product Specs
| Filtration System | Reverse osmosis |
| Weight | 10 pounds |
| Filter Lifetime | Not specified |
| Contaminants | Lead, fluoride, arsenic, copper, barium, cadmium, radium |
| Improves Water Quality | Better taste and odor |
2. pH Regenerate Faucet Water Filter
Best Modern Design
This product will make a sleek addition to any kitchen. The device uses a high pH alkaline filter system, effective at removing metals and minerals.
It has a chic, modern look that will complement most kitchens. You can also connect it to other faucets around your home.
The filter is long-lasting, depending on your water quality. It should last you an average of at least six months.
Installation is simple and doesn’t require any specialized tools. The product includes several standard connectors, so you won’t need to run to the supply store for extra parts.
What We Like
Versatile Filter
You can use this filter to clean drinking and cooking water in your kitchen, or you can install it in a bathroom. It attaches easily to the spout of your faucet and has a large switch to select filtered or unfiltered water.
Removes Metals and Minerals
In areas with hard water, you might notice a decreased water flow due to sediment build-up. Water softeners are useful, but they won’t remove contaminants.
This filter will remove various contaminants such as zinc, iron, selenium, lead, and chlorine. It will soften your water and reduce the amount of mineral build-up.
Long-Lasting Filter
The filter has a large capacity and could last you up to 12 months. However, in areas with very hard water, they will need replacing more often.
Improves Water Quality
Impurities such as metals or chlorine will affect the taste and odor of water. This is a common issue in many homes and leads to homeowners avoiding their tap water.
This filter will also improve your water in other ways. The PH007 filter breaks down molecules into patterns that are recognized by your cells. This enhances your body’s absorption rate, resulting in better hydration.
What We Don't Like
Drips
Some users mentioned that the filter’s faucet tends to drip after being shut off. This means it needs to be positioned over a sink.
Product Specs
| Filtration System | Alkaline ionized |
| Weight | 4.5 pounds |
| Filter Lifetime | Up to 12 months |
| Contaminants | Metals, minerals |
| Improves Water Quality | Better taste, odor, remineralizes |
3. Apex Countertop Alkaline Filter
Best Warranty
In areas with a high concentration of minerals and sediments in the water, this filter will serve you well. It uses a clear alkaline filter to remove various contaminants, including chlorine, radon, and sediment.
This filter sits on the counter next to your sink and, as it’s clear, you can see it in action. It is simple to install and doesn’t require any special plumbing tools or complicated fittings.
This Apex filter adheres to the strict guidelines set by the NSF and FDA. The filter is BPA-free and doesn’t contain lead, so it won’t add any impurities to your filtered water.
What We Like
Connects Easily to Faucets
The filter will connect easily to any standard faucet, and it sits directly on your countertop. Everything you need to install the device is included. You only need to remove the aerator screen and attach the collar of the diverter valve.
It can even connect to pull-down faucets, which many countertop water filters are unable to do.
Reduces Contaminants
Removing sediment from your water can improve the flow of your faucets, showers, and appliances as they won’t get clogged. This clear filter will also remove dangerous material, including giardia cysts and cryptosporidium.
Improves Water
Alkaline water filters are known for improving water quality significantly. This filter will provide you with added essential minerals in your water such as calcium and magnesium. These minerals help reduce fatigue by strengthening your bones and boosting your immune system.
Made in the U.S.
As this filter is made in the United States, it adheres to the strict guidelines set by the NSF and FDA. If you are concerned about product materials, this filter should give you peace of mind.
What We Don't Like
Not Tasteless
Some customers have mentioned a chlorine taste, but it is not considered overwhelming and the water is still completely safe to drink.
Product Specs
| Filtration System | Clear alkaline |
| Weight | 5 pounds |
| Filter Lifetime | Not specified |
| Contaminants | Metals, sediments,cryptosporidium, giardia cysts |
| Improves Water Quality | Better taste, odor, remineralizes |
4. CleanWater4Less Countertop Water Filtration
Best Capacity
CleanWater4Less has developed this smart countertop filter, which can produce up to 10,000 gallons of filtered water. It is easy to install and can be attached to your kitchen faucet. You can also use the small faucet on the filter itself — it requires no plumbing or tools.
A common issue with countertop water filters is that they tend to slow the flow rate significantly. In contrast, this filter provides a flow rate of 1 gallon per minute. This is probably less than your kitchen faucet, which provides an average of 2.2 GPM, but it is about the same as a bathroom tap.
What We Like
Large Capacity
The ability to produce 10,000 gallons of clean water makes this an excellent choice for large households. This also means the filter will last you longer before needing replacement, saving money in the long run.
Five-Stage Filter
As water enters the filter, it first passes through a sediment pre-filter that gets rid of hard minerals. Next, it moves through four filters, including a high-grade granulated activated carbon filter and a micron filter.
It is effective at removing chemicals and organic chemicals from water, including chlorine and hydrogen sulfide. These contaminants alter the taste and smell of your water.
Easy Installation
If you want to use your new filter as soon as possible, this model is one of the easiest to install. It doesn’t require any tools or plumbing; simply attach the adapter to the spout.
What We Don't Like
No Replacement
Although 10,000 gallons is a lot of water, once the filter has reached its limit, it will no longer work at all.
It can last a long time if you only use it for drinking water. However, if you intend to use it for cooking or cleaning fruit and vegetables, you might want to consider an option with a replaceable cartridge.
Product Specs
| Filtration System | Granulated active carbon |
| Weight | 3.35 pounds |
| Filter Lifetime | 10,000 gallons |
| Contaminants | Chemical, organic chemicals |
| Improves Water Quality | Better taste, odor |
5. Aquagear Water Filter Pitcher
Best Countertop Pitcher
A pitcher will effectively clean your water without being confined to one spot. You can take a pitcher filter anywhere you go, making them ideal for camping trips or picnics.
This specific pitcher is highly effective at removing numerous contaminants, including lead and fluoride. It doesn’t require installation and can be used straight out of the box.
It has been tested to meet and exceed standards 42 and 53 set by the NSF. Combine that with its lifetime guarantee and customer support, and you have plenty of reason to trust this filter.
What We Like
Triple Filter
The triple-capacity filters can each produce 150 gallons. That means they will give you 450 gallons before they need to be replaced. Although some filters can provide significantly more, this is still a decent volume of water.
High-Quality
Made in the United States, the filter is BPA-free and made of FDA-approved materials. It is recyclable, vegan-friendly, and designed to suit a healthy lifestyle. Aquagear has tested the pitcher rigorously to make sure it meets NSF standards.
It effectively removes lead, chlorine, chloramines, fluoride, chromium, and mercury.
Lifetime Guarantee
This product is protected by a lifetime guarantee to provide peace of mind. Aquagear states it will replace any product that breaks during normal use, free of charge.
What We Don't Like
Slower Than Others
As you fill the pitcher from the top, the water will slowly move down through the filter. This process is slow and is similar to that of a coffee filter.
The easiest way to overcome this is by always refilling the pitcher after you use it, rather than waiting until you need water.
Product Specs
| Filtration System | Not specified |
| Weight | 2.2 pounds |
| Filter Lifetime | 450 gallons |
| Contaminants | Chlorine, mercury, lead, fluoride |
| Improves Water Quality | Removes harmful contaminants but leaves essential minerals |
6. iSpring Countertop Water Filter
Best Colorful Design
If you want to add a touch of color to your kitchen while filtering your water, this is for you. The high filter comes with its own faucet but can also be used with your kitchen faucet.
It is easy to install and requires no drilling or complicated plumbing. The case is available in five bright colors but they are all transparent, so you can see the water moving through the filtration process.
The filter removes numerous contaminants, including VOCs (volatile organic compounds). It also removes bad tastes and odors from the water.
With a 30-day money-back guarantee, a one-year limited warranty, and lifetime technical support, this filter is a reliable addition to any home.
What We Like
Thorough Filter
The filter is a CTO (chlorine, taste, and odor) carbon block with coconut shell. It removes 95% of chlorine, odors, salts, sediment, sand, and rust from your water. It also removes VOCs such as herbicides, pesticides, and industrial chemicals.
It is tested by a third party to ensure it meets NSF/ANSI standards.
Installation is a Breeze
Installing the filter is quick and easy. Your purchase includes everything you need, such as a plastic wrench, two faucet adapters, tubing, and an O-ring. It doesn’t require any drilling, and you won’t need any specialized tools.
If you decide you want to filter another faucet in your home — such as in a bathroom — you can move it easily.
Fun Design
The casing is available in five colors — all of which are transparent and provide a good view into the filter. This will help you determine whether or not the filter needs to be replaced. The bright colors won’t suit everybody’s taste but, if you like a bit of flash, this filter is perfect.
What We Don't Like
No Flow Restrictor
Water filters have a slower flow rate than kitchen faucets. This difference is usually addressed by a restrictor, which keeps the flow manageable. However, this model doesn’t have a restrictor, so you will be unable to turn the faucet on fully.
Product Specs
| Filtration System | CTO carbon block |
| Weight | 4 pounds |
| Filter Lifetime | Six months |
| Contaminants | Sand, rust, odors, chemicals, VOCs |
| Improves Water Quality | Balanced pH water, removes odors |
7. Home Master Jr. F2 Sinktop Water Filtration System
Best Compact Filter
A compact water filter is the best option for a small kitchen. They are also ideal for people who don’t want a bulky device next to their faucet.
With a three-stage filter, this device removes numerous contaminants. The filters use activated alumina, which treats fluoride and arsenic. A coconut shell carbon filter removes chlorine, pesticides, herbicides, VOCs, TOCs, and other chemicals. Finally, it has 5-micrometer compression disks to prevent channeling. Installation is easy and you can do it yourself in minutes.
What We Like
High-Quality Filter
This unit uses an advanced multi-stage granular filter with a coconut shell. Coconut is milder than standard coal carbon material. Another benefit of coconut is that it is excellent at removing chlorination and sediment.
Ease of Installation
Configuring this device with your sink top is easy. There is also an easy-to-follow online video tutorial that you can refer to throughout the installation process.
Long-Lasting and Replaceable
The filter should last you about three months or 500 gallons of filtration, depending on your water quality. Once it stops working, you can simply replace the filter for another three months of clean drinking water.
What We Don't Like
Replacing Filter
Some customers reported that replacing the filter requires hand strength. If you have limited dexterity or strength in your hands, you might struggle to replace these filters without assistance.
Product Specs
| Filtration System | Advanced multi-stage granular filter |
| Weight | 4.25 pounds |
| Filter Lifetime | Three months or 500 gallons |
| Contaminants | Chlorine, sediments, fluoride, pesticides, herbicides, VOCs and TOCs |
| Improves Water Quality | Removes odors and tastes |
8. Brita Extra Large Water Dispenser
Best Filtered Water Dispenser
For large households, a small filter might not provide enough water during busy periods. This countertop water filter dispenser can hold 1.13 gallons; about 18 cups.
Its compact design will fit nicely on any countertop. You can also place it in your refrigerator for clean, cold water.
Water dispensers generally aren’t known to have the best filters. However, the active filter in this model removes 99% of lead and also reduces cadmium, asbestos, and more. It is also a long-lasting filter with an electronic indicator that tells you when it needs to be replaced.
What We Like
Large Capacity
Having a large volume of filtered water ready to drink can make life much more manageable. This dispenser can hold 1.13 gallons — plenty for the whole family.
Efficient Filter
The active filter quickly removes lead and reduces the levels of other contaminants, including asbestos. One filter can provide 120 gallons of clean water before it needs replacing.
Brita claims this filter only needs to be replaced every six months. An electronic indicator will tell you when it’s almost time for a replacement.
Compact Design
One standout attribute of this Brita filter is its size. It is a compact design that won’t occupy much space on your countertop or table; it will even fit in a fridge.
What We Don't Like
Filling Reservoir is Small
The reservoir at the top is significantly smaller than the tank itself. This can slow down refilling, as you often need to wait for some water to be filtered before you can add more to the reservoir.
Product Specs
| Filtration System | Active filter |
| Weight | Not specified |
| Filter Lifetime | Six months |
| Contaminants | Chlorine, lead, mercury, benzene |
| Improves Water Quality | Removes odors and tastes |
9. Big Berkey Countertop Water Filter
Best Look
Aesthetics are important as countertop water filters are designed to be visible at all times. The tall, sleek look of this filter will add a modern touch to any kitchen.
It is made of stainless steel and is 21 inches tall. It can hold 2.25 gallons of water at a time, which is ideal for high-demand homes.
The filter will remove multiple contaminants such as benzene, bisphenol A, e. Coli, fluoride, and many more. Depending on your local water quality, the lifespan of this filter is very impressive.
Big Berkey has made it possible for customers to add or remove some features and filters to make the device even more efficient.
What We Like
Highly Effective
The processing system features two elements and two fluoride filters. They work together to filter out a vast array of contaminants and sediment. Each purification element will last about 3,000 gallons, and the fluoride filters can process 1,000 gallons each. Combined, that’s an impressive 8,000 gallons!
Excellent for Families
The tank can hold 2.25 gallons at a time. This should be plenty for a family of four, right up to 16 people. It is made of durable stainless steel and fitted with a user-friendly spigot, resulting in a durable product for a busy home.
Easy Installation
As this is a water dispenser, you won’t have to deal with connectors, adapters, tools, or any other complicated installation issues. Simply place the dispenser and pour water into the tank.
What We Don't Like
Requires Significant Maintenance
Some customers reported that the filters require a lot of maintenance. If they aren’t maintained properly, the flow can be impacted significantly.
Product Specs
| Filtration System | Purification elements, fluoride filters |
| Weight | 8.69 pounds |
| Filter Lifetime | 3.000 gallons |
| Contaminants | Chlorine, lead, mercury, benzene |
| Improves Water Quality | Yes |
10. AEX EXPRT Dual Countertop Water Filter
Best Dual Filter
This popular unit contains two filters: a carbon block and an alkaline filter. By working together, the overall filter is highly effective at removing numerous contaminants such as chloramine, bacteria, and heavy metals.
There is the added benefit of a clear case, so you can see exactly what’s going on inside. This also means there’s no need for tinkering when changing the filter as you have a complete picture.
Despite being a larger unit, it is still easy to install and connects quickly to any standard faucet. If you aren’t sure about the product, you have a 30-day return window with a money-back guarantee.
What We Like
Five-Stage Filter
As tap water enters the cartridge, it first passes through a KDF-55 filter. This is effective at removing bacteria and heavy metals while trapping microorganisms. The more significant part of the cartridge is the carbon block, which removes chemicals from the water.
At the top, there is an alkaline filter that adds healthy magnesium, potassium, and calcium to the water.
High-Quality
The product is made in the United States and meets the standards set by the NSF. The materials used are lead-free and BPA-free. This ensures that the product you receive is of the highest quality.
Customer Support
You will have a 30-day money-back guarantee if you aren’t satisfied with the product. The filter also includes a limited one-year warranty against material and manufacturing defects.
What We Don't Like
Dripping
The small filter spout tends to drip after being shut off. This was only a minor issue for some customers but it is something to be aware of.
Product Specs
| Filtration System | KDF-55, GAC, Alkaline |
| Weight | 9.25 pounds |
| Filter Lifetime | Not specified |
| Contaminants | Chemicals, bacteria, heavy metals |
| Improves Water Quality | Adds essential minerals |
| Product | Best | Filtration System | Weight | Filter Lifetime | Contaminants |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| APEC Portable Filter | Compatibility | Reverse osmosis | 10 lbs | Not specified | Lead, fluoride, arsenic, copper, barium, cadmium, radium |
| pH Regenerate Faucet Filter | Modern Design | Alkaline ionized | 4.5 lbs | Up – 12 months | Metals, minerals |
| Apex Countertop Filter | Warranty | Clear alkaline | 5 lbs | Not specified | Metals, sediments,cryptosporidium, giardia cysts |
| CleanWater4Less Filtration | Capacity | Granulated active carbon | 3.35 lbs | 10,000 gal. | Chemical, organic chemicals |
| Aquagear Filter | Countertop Pitcher | Not specified | 2.2 lbs | 450 gal. | Chlorine, mercury, lead, fluoride |
| iSpring Filter | Colorful Design | CTO carbon block | 4 lbs | Six months | Sand, rust, odors, chemicals, VOCs |
| Home Master Jr. F2 | Compact Filter | Advanced multi-stage granular filter | 4.25 lbs | Three months | Chlorine, sediments, fluoride, pesticides, herbicides, VOCs and TOCs |
| Brita Extra Large Dispenser | Filtered Water Dispenser | Active filter | Not specified | Six months | Chlorine, lead, mercury, benzene |
| Big Berkey Filter | Looking | Purification elements, fluoride filters | 8.69 lbs | 3.000 gal. | Chlorine, lead, mercury, benzene |
| AEX EXPRT Dual Filter | Dual Filter | KDF-55, GAC, Alkaline | 9.25 lbs | Not specified | Chemicals, bacteria, heavy metals |
How to Choose – Buying Guide
Finding your perfect countertop water purifier requires some planning before you go shopping. To give you some guidance, this list contains everything you should keep in mind when embarking on your search.
Countertop water filters are compact devices that can either be attached to your faucet or work as a stand-alone unit. They make a great addition to a small kitchen with limited counter space.
They will remove the majority of impurities from water, but perhaps their greatest advantage is that they will filter water on demand.
Type
Countertop refers to the placement of these filters, which is usually on a work surface in your kitchen or another room. There are two main types:
- Faucet: These filters are connected directly to your faucet. They filter water efficiently and are easy to use. Many models can attach to the faucet’s aerator and can be installed quickly and easily. The main downside of these units is their pricing.
- Pitcher: These filters are popular and efficient, and differ as they aren’t connected to your faucet. A pitcher consists of two parts; a filter and a container. Water is purified using a carbon filter.
It’s important to consider the size of the filter you’re thinking of buying. Although countertop water filters are among the smallest types, you will still need enough space to accommodate a faucet filter.
Pitcher filters have varying capacities and some are compact enough to fit inside a refrigerator. These will ensure you have clean, cold drinking water at the ready.
Materials
Plastic is the most common countertop water filter material. However, if you opt for a plastic filter, read the product description carefully to make sure it’s BPA-free. BPA (Bisphenol A) can leak chemicals and contaminate your purified water.
BPA is commonly found in polycarbonate plastics and is often used in food and drink packaging. It is also present in epoxy resins, which are widely used as lacquers on metal items such as bottle tops and food cans. How much BPA leaks into your drinking water will depend on the temperature of the water and its container.
Studies Report
If you would prefer not to use a plastic filter due to its impact on the environment, look for filters that are made from recycled materials.
Filter Capacity
If you are part of a large household, you will need a filter that can cope with the demand. In this situation, a pitcher filter probably isn’t your best option.
Keep in mind that a filter with a larger capacity won’t have to be replaced as often. This will save you time and money in the long run.
Ease of Use
It’s convenient when a water filter can be set up straight from the box. However, some models will require a professional (or an experienced DIYer) to fit.
Pitcher filters are quicker to set up, and they include instructions to help you use them as soon as possible. Water dispensers are also straightforward to use.
Replacements
As water filters are designed to absorb or attract contaminants, it’s important to replace them regularly. Before you buy one, find out how easily you can acquire replacement filters.
You don’t want to waste money on an expensive purchase that you can’t get replacement parts for. Some products will include one or two replacement filters, so you won’t have to buy any more for a while.
Warranty and Aftercare
Many products include a 30-day return warranty after the purchase. Look for a filter that has a return and exchange period, but also provides aftercare. This means you will be covered if something goes wrong or you aren’t happy with the filter.
Some brands offer a great aftercare service to ensure your water filter continues to work optimally. These will provide up to a year of care and might include an extended warranty against manufacturing defects.
Water Quality
The most important question when buying a filter is how significantly your water quality will improve. This depends on the filter being used and which impurities are in your water. Many homeowners test their water before buying a filter for this reason.
If you have a significant amount of fluoride in your water, you will need a filter that can tackle it. Activated alumina filters are highly effective at removing fluoride.
Most water filters should state in their description which minerals will and won’t be filtered. You can use this information to determine which is the best countertop water filter for your needs.
Taste
This isn’t a major issue for some people, but the taste of filtered water can be a deal-breaker. Some filters give water a chlorine-like taste, while others are relatively tasteless. Consider how you want your water to taste.
If you are concerned about taste and odor, read customer reviews to find out how users describe it. Some manufacturers claim that their products are odor-free but reviews might tell a different story.
Appearance
Not everyone will care how their filter looks, but it might be something you want to keep in mind. Countertop water filters will be in a prominent position, so it’s best to choose something that is easy on the eye.
Some models can look quite bulky next to a kitchen faucet, while others might be a color that clashes with the rest of the room.
FAQs
How Will I Know if the Filter Stops Working?
This depends on which filter you’re using. Evidence that it isn’t working includes the presence of contaminants, but this requires testing. If you installed the filter to remove bad tastes or odors from your water, you might start noticing them again.
Some metals and bacteria, such as coliform, can discolor your water and give it an unpleasant odor and taste (2). Pay attention to your water and any inconsistencies in it.
Which Filter Is Best for Microbe Removal?
If your water is sourced from a well, there is a risk of microbiological contamination. Even the best countertop water filter might not be powerful enough to filter these out.
It is best to choose a more comprehensive filtration system such as a whole house filter. These purify all water that enters your home. Another option is a reverse osmosis filter, which is highly effective at removing bacteria and viruses such as e. Coli and rotavirus (3).
Which Filter Can Remove Fluoride?
Fluoride is best removed using an activated alumina filter or a reverse osmosis model. Most homeowners choose reverse osmosis as it is highly effective and proven to be safe.
Many customers raised concerns about aluminum leaking into the water when using an activated alumina system. Although studies have shown that only trace amounts are leaked, this is still enough to deter some homeowners (4).
