Access to clean and safe drinking water is a priority for every household, and the best Countertop Water Filter options provide simple solutions for enhanced water quality – without the need for complicated installation or plumbing changes.
This article includes the best countertop water filters, product reviews, highlights, and answers to buyers’ most common questions.
Why Choose a Countertop Water Filtration System?
Countertop water filters are convenient, efficient, and easy to maintain. Unlike whole-house or under-sink filters, they don’t require additional plumbing or extensive installation.
The 10 Countertop Water Filtration Systems featured below produce filtered drinking water, with 99% of the impurities removed.
Each of these 10 water filter systems benefits renters or homeowners looking for a portable drinking water solution.
Ten Best Countertop Water Filter Systems
Aqua Tru “Carafe Smart” Water Filter I-Spring RDT-100 Hot/Cold Water Filter
BlueVua RO100ROPOT Filter Waterdrop Core Reverse Osmosis
Berkey Gravity Fed System. VonWater CT910H Hot/Cold
BlueVua “Lite” Water Filter System AiGerri UV Water Filter System
Sim PUR Water Filter System. Aqua Tru “Classic” Premium Water Filter
Editors Choice: Aqua Tru “Carafe Smart” Water Filtration System
- Key Features: 4-stage reverse osmosis filtration; NSF-certified.
- Highlights:
- Carafe Purified Water Collection method.
- 64 0z Glass Carafe
- 2.5-1 Drain Ratio (2.5 gallons Tap Water = 1 gallon Purified Water)
- Removes up to 99% of contaminants in tap water, including fluoride and lead.
- Easy setup with no plumbing required.
- Smart APP enabled (Monitor Water level, Real-Time Filter Status, etc.)
- Sleek, modern, compact design. Measures 13″ h x 7.5″ w x 14″ deep
- More Affordable Filter Replacements than most.
- 30-Day Money Back Guarantee
- Aqua Tru Filter Replacements: at Amazon $80 33
- Duration: 12 – 24 months, depending on usage.
The AquaTru “Carafe Smart” Countertop Water Filtration System stands out for its innovative 4-stage reverse osmosis technology, making it one of the most advanced systems you can buy.
Test Results (1/08/25) Aqua Tru Carafe Smart
Following our tests for the Aqua Tru Carafe Smart, this water filter system became our top choice for countertop water filtration, edging out the Aqua Tru “Classic” on price and a smaller space requirement. In addition:
- The Carafe Smart includes the NSF Aqua Tru certification for testing, removing 99% of unhealthy contaminants.
- The added convenience of the Aqua Tru mobile app (link with water system via Wi-Fi).
- Minimal kitchen counter space requirement – Only 7.5″ wide x 14″ deep
- Delivers fantastic fresh-tasting water.
Aqua Tru removes over 83 harmful contaminants such as fluoride, lead, and chlorine, ensuring clean and safe drinking water. AquaTru’s NSF certification adds credibility to its claims, providing users with peace of mind.
The large 64-oz. Glass Carafe can easily be removed and placed in our refrigerator for cold drinking water.
Aqua Tru’s four purification stages include a Pre-filter, a Carbon filter, a reverse osmosis filter, and a VOC carbon filter.
Its convenient design makes this a truly portable machine, and it requires no plumbing for installation, making it suitable for renters and homeowners alike.
Aqua Tru Carafe (“Getting Started” Video)
While the upfront costs are slightly higher than those of other water filtration systems, the system’s long-term performance, lower cost of replacement filters, and overall reliability justify the investment.
Interacting with this Water System via the Aqua Tru Smart App is easy.
The mobile Wi-Fi app connection makes monitoring water levels and filter status easy, securing the Aqua Tru Carafe as the “Smartest,” Most User-Friendly, Top-value water filtration system we tested.
AQUA TRU – WATER FILTRATION SYSTEM
Runner Up: BlueVua RO100ROPOT Water Filter
- Key Features: 4- Stage filtration, Reverse Osmosis, compact design.
- Highlights:
- 57 ounce Glass Carafe
- Removes a wide range of contaminants.
- Portable and easy to use.
- No plumbing is required.
- 2-1 Pure Drain Ratio
- Power-Saving Mode
- Bluevua Filters (4) Replacement at Amazon Approx. $79 (12-24 months)
The BlueVua RO100ROPOT Countertop Water Filter offers a highly effective reverse osmosis system in a sleek and compact design, removing 99.9% of the contaminants.
This filter removes a broad spectrum of contaminants, including heavy metals and chlorine, and ensures high-quality drinking water.
BlueVua Water Filtration System (Set-Up Video)
BlueVua’s effortless portability and no-plumbing-required setup – make the BlueVua perfect for homeowners or renters seeking a quick, hassle-free water filter solution.
Although its filtration process is a little slower than some (6-8 minutes), Bluevua’s excellent performance and convenience make it a top seller on Amazon and a standout option for any household.
BLUEVUA – WATER FILTER SYSTEM
Big Berkey: Best Gravity Fed Water Filtration System
Key Features: Gravity-fed stainless steel design, No Electricity required, Large Storage Capacity 2.5 Gallon Tank
- Highlights:
- Effective against bacteria, viruses, and heavy metals.
- Extra Large capacity for families.
- No electricity is required.
- Filters Last up to 6,000 Gallons
- Cons:
- Requires More Countertop Space than others
- Higher initial cost.
- Filter Replacement: Approx. $100 for Black Carbon and Flouride Water Filter set at Amazon
The Big Berkey Countertop Water Filter System is the only non-electric water filtration system in our review. Big Berkey is a long-trusted name in water filtration, known for its heavy-duty stainless steel water tank and gravity-fed operation.
Big Berkey Water Filter (Video)
This Berkey water filtration system eliminates 99% of harmful contaminants, including bacteria, viruses, and heavy metals, making it an excellent choice for those seeking comprehensive water purification.
Its extra-large 2.5-gallon water capacity is ideal for families or households with high water consumption.
Additionally, the filtration system’s reliance on Gravity means No electricity is needed, offering unmatched reliability during power outages or in off-grid scenarios.
Despite its slightly bulky size, the Berkey’s superior performance, durability, and large tank capacity make it a worthwhile investment for large families to enjoy clean and safe drinking water.
BERKEY – WATER FILTRATION SYSTEM
Best Compact Design: Bluevua RO100ROPOT – LITE Countertop Water Filter
- Key Features: Compact Design, 7 – Stage filtration, Reverse Osmosis, very compact design, UV light filter, Low Pure to Drain Ratio
- Highlights:
- 40 oz. Glass Carafe
- Multiple Water Volume Settings (Carafe or Cup Collection)
- Uses One Filter: Removes a wide range of contaminants.
- Portable and easy to use.
- No plumbing is required.
- 3-1 Pure Drain Ratio
- Bluevua Filter Replacement: Cost = Approx. $79 (12 months)
The Bluevua RO100ROPOT Countertop Water Filter offers a highly effective reverse osmosis system in a sleek and compact design, removing 99.9% of the contaminants.
This filter can remove a broad spectrum of contaminants, including heavy metals and chlorine, and ensures high-quality drinking water.
BlueVua Lite Water Filter System (Video)
Its portability and no-plumbing-required setup make it perfect for renters or those seeking a hassle-free solution.
Although its filtration process is slower, the Bluevua’s excellent performance and convenience make it a standout option for any household.
BLUEVUA “LITE” – WATER FILTER SYSTEM
Easiest Plug-and-Play Setup: SimPur Water Filter System
- Key Features: 5-Stage filtration; Compact design, Easy to Read Display.
- Highlights:
- Reduces 99.9% of harmful contaminants, including fluoride, chlorine, and other chemicals.
- Attractive, Clean White Color Appliance
- Three Different Dispenser Options (6, 12, 15 oz.)
- Easy Navigation – LED Lighted Display
- Made in the USA (Seattle, WA)
- Portable Compact Size: 18″L x 8″W x 17″H
- Simple setup, No Plumbing required
- 528 Gallon Rated Filter Life (6-12 months per Usage)
- The reverse osmosis filter is $33 and is available on Amazon.
The SimPure Y7P-BW UV Countertop Reverse Osmosis Water Filter is a standout choice for home water purification.
With NSF/ANSI 58 certification and a 4-stage RO filtration system, it delivers crisp, clean water while ensuring optimal safety. In addition, Its UV sterilization feature adds extra protection by eliminating harmful microorganisms.
SimPure Water Filter System (Video)
The 4:1 pure-to-drain ratio is impressively efficient, reducing water waste compared to traditional systems.
This BPA-free, installation-free design is user-friendly and portable, perfect for renters or small spaces.
As an Amazon best-seller, the Simpur water system offers a simple, reliable, eco-friendly solution for healthier drinking water.
SIMPUR -WATER FILTER SYSTEM
Best Value Hot & Cold Water Filter System: iSpring RCD-100
- Key Features: Hot/Cold Water Options, Carbon block technology, compact design, Affordable Filter Replacements, Low Pure to Drain Ratio.
- Highlights:
- Water Glass (Not Carafe) Purified Water Delivery
- Four Temperature Options: Hot or Cold Purified Water
- Removes 99% Of Harmful Contaminants
- Easy installation (No Plumbing Required)
- Improves taste and Removes Odor.
- Low 2.5:1 Pure To Drain Ratio
- Very Economical 1-Year $37 Filter Replacements at Amazon
The iSpring RCD100 5-Stage Countertop Reverse Osmosis System combines convenience and superior performance with hot and cold purified water, including an instant hot purified water option and UV sterilization for added safety.
Its 2.5:1 pure-to-drain ratio is very efficient, minimizing water waste, while the 100 GPD capacity ensures a steady supply of purified water.
With four temperature options, it caters to various needs, from hot beverages to refreshing cold water.
The plug-and-play design makes setup a breeze, making it a portable and user-friendly solution for premium water filtration.
In addition, Its compact and lightweight design ensures it fits seamlessly on most kitchen countertops, making it a practical choice for small spaces.
Easy installation further enhances its user-friendly appeal. The iSpring RCD-100 remains a super-reliable option for delivering hot or cold purified water while improving the quality of everyday drinking water.
ISPRING – WATER FILTER SYSTEMS
Best Dual Hot & Cold Water Filter: Waterdrop Hot & Cold Water Filter System
- Key Features: 6-stage filtration; long-lasting filter, Dual water collection methods (Carafe or Glass)
- Highlights:
- Water Glass Dispenser or 34 oz. Removable Glass Water Carafe
- Three-Second – Instant Hot Water Option
- Five Water Temperature Options
- Removes 99% of Contaminants, including heavy metals and chlorine.
- Easy-to-Read LCD Smart Control Screen
- Durable stainless steel housing.
- Sleek and space-saving.
- 12-Month, Low-Cost $59 Filter Replacement at Amazon
- 3-1 Pure to Drain Ratio
The Waterdrop Countertop Filter combines advanced 6-stage water filtration technology with a durable stainless steel design, ensuring performance and longevity.
The Waterdrop Core RO Countertop Reverse Osmosis Water Filter, WD-C1H, is a versatile and efficient solution for pure water on demand.
Featuring an instant hot water dispenser with five customizable temperature options, it’s perfect for everything from brewing tea to preparing baby formula.
Waterdrop CoreRO Water Filter System (Video)
The 3:1 pure-to-drain ratio ensures minimal water waste, while its NSF/ANSI 372 certification guarantees safety and quality.
Its portable design and 34-oz. pure water pitcher functionality add convenience, making it ideal for homes or offices seeking reliable, eco-friendly hydration.
WATERDROP – WATER FILTER SYSTEM
Best Premium Hot/Cold Water System: Vonwater 7-Stage Filter
- Key Features: 7-stage filtration; SGS Certified BPA/Lead-Free, 1.2 Litre Removable Carafe, Low Pure to Drain Ratio, 5 Temperature Settings
- Highlights:
- Removes 99.9% of total contaminants
- Five Temperature Settings
- Three-Second Instant Hot Water Option
- Four Water Volume Dispenser Options
- Includes LCD Display for monitoring.
- 186 Oz Pure Water Capacity.
- 1.2 Liter Removable Water Carafe
- 3-1: Low Pure to Drain Ratio
- Tested and Certified by SGS for Lead-Free, BPA-Free Materials
- All-In-One Water Filter – $69 and Available at Amazon
The Vonwater CT910H Reverse Osmosis Water Filter is a premium choice for clean, hot water in seconds.
Vonwater offers five Temperature Options and a 3-second instant hot RO system that delivers purified water on demand, perfect for tea, coffee, or cooking.
An industry-leading and advanced 7-stage filtration system effectively reduces TDS, PFAS, and other impurities, ensuring high-quality hydration.
VonWater Water Filter System (Video)
The Vonwater removable pitcher adds portability and convenience, while NSF/ANSI 372 certification guarantees reliable performance.
The CT910H is sleek and compact, combining efficiency, safety, and style. It is an excellent water purification solution for any modern kitchen.
VONWATER – WATER PURIFIER SYSTEM
Best Value Water Filter System: Aigerri 5-Stage Reverse Osmosis
- Key Features: 5-Stage filtration; Compact design, Easy to Read Display.
- Highlights:
- Reduces 99.9% of harmful contaminants, including fluoride, chlorine, and other chemicals.
- It is the most Affordable System we have tested.
- Portable Compact Size: 16.41″L x 7.36″W x 16.22″H
- Simple setup, No Plumbing required
- 529 Gallon Rated Filter Life (6-12 months usage)
- The reverse osmosis filter is $35 and is available on Amazon.
The AIGERRI Reverse Osmosis Water Filter System delivers outstanding economic value considering all its features.
With Its 5-liter raw water filtration capacity, the Aigerri water filter is perfect for households, delivering 2 Liters of Purified water with every treatment.
The advanced 5-stage filtration system, including UV light, eliminates impurities and harmful microorganisms. Its efficient 5:1 pure-to-drain ratio reduces waste while ensuring clean drinking water.
Its easy-to-read display panel adds convenience by informing you about filter life and water quality. This system is a top-notch choice for reliable and eco-friendly water purification.
AIGERRI – WATER FILTER SYSTEM
Best Premium Upgrade: Aqua Tru “Classic” Water Filtration System
- Key Features: 4-stage Reverse Osmosis filtration, Dual Option Single Cup or Removable Dispenser for Refrigerator, NSF-certified Purification Tested.
- Highlights:
- Single Cup or Water Dispenser Methods
- Larger .75 Gallon (3 Quarts) “Removable” Dispensing Tank
- 2.5-1 Drain Ratio (2.5 gallons Tap Water = 1 gallon Purified Water)
- Removes up to 99% of contaminants in Tap Water, including fluoride and lead.
- Easy setup with no plumbing required.
- Push-button single Glass Dispenser or Removeable Dispensing Tank
- Smart APP Wi-Fi enabled (Monitor Water level, Real-Time Filter Status, etc.)
- Sleek, modern, compact design. Measures 13″ h x 7.5″ w x 14″ deep
- More Affordable Filter Replacements than most.
- 30-Day Money Back Guarantee
- Filter Replacement (3): At Amazon, $80 (Every 12 – 24 months)
The Aqua Tru Classic Countertop Reverse Osmosis Water Purifier combines convenience and outstanding performance in a compact design (14″H x 12″ W x 14″D).
The Aqua Tru 4-stage filtration system is NSF-certified, effectively removing up to 83 contaminants, including lead, chlorine, and pharmaceuticals.
It’s easy to install and requires no plumbing, making it perfect for small kitchens. The unit delivers crisp, clean water that enhances taste and safety, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious households.
Aqua Tru Premium “Classic” Water Purifier – How to Unpack Video
Test Results (01/14/25): Aqua Tru “Classic” Filter System
• Setup and Usability: The helpful step-by-step guide made our setup simple. This unit automatically filters water from a large tap water tank. The transparent display shows the condition of the water filters and provides refill alerts as needed.
• Mobile App Integration: The Aqua Tru smart app integration was easy to upload, making monitoring filter levels and replacement timelines convenient.
• Design and Convenience: Although it sits on a countertop and nicely underneath our upper kitchen cabinet, filling the large tap water tank required us to slide the unit out.
Easy-fix: We purchased from Amazon Universal Sliders to place the water filter unit underneath and slide the machine out easily. The Carafe handle on the unit is secure, making our tank refills effortless!
• Performance: The water quality is noticeably better than our previous filter. The machine is also impressively quiet during operation.
• Overall Experience: Great user experience, high-quality drinking water, and a significant improvement in taste.
AQUA TRU “CLASSIC” – WATER FILTER SYSTEM
Key Benefits To Using Water Filtration Systems:
- Improved Taste: Removes contaminants that affect taste and odor.
- Safe & Healthy Drinking Water
- Cost-Effective: Much Lower cost than bottled water or larger under-counter filtration systems.
- Environmentally Friendly: Eliminates single-use plastic bottle waste.
Features To Consider Before Buying Water System:
1). Type of Water Collection You Prefer
- Pitcher/Carafe (Includes a 40 – 64 oz. removable container)
- Single-cup Dispenser (Fill each Water Glass on demand)
*Note: Two Models in our reviews (Phillips and Aqua Tru “Classic”) offer a Carafe or a Single cup dispenser option in one appliance.
2). Water Filtration Method You Prefer :
- Reverse Osmosis: (Pressurized/Multi-Stage water Filtration, Most Effective, Most Expensive, example; Aqua Tru)
- Cartridge Filtration (Non-Pressurized or Gravity-fed, Not a reverse-osmosis system, example: Britta, Berkey)
3). Pure to Drain Ratio You Require:
Definition: “Pure to Drain” refers to the number of gallons of tap water required to produce the number of gallons of purified/filtered water.
Example: The pure-to-drain 2-1 Ratio means that 2 gallons of unfiltered Tap water produce 1 gallon of Purified water.
“Pure to Drain” also refers to the amount of Purified water produced compared to the amount of contaminated water disposed of down the drain after filtering the water.
Therefore, if your local Water is expensive, consider buying a Low “Pure to Drain” ratio water filtration system – using only as much tap water as necessary to produce purified water.
Note: After each filtration process, contaminant water is returned to the water tank for your disposal.
4). Replacement Filter Cost:
A significant consideration when buying a water filter system is the longevity and replacement cost of its replacement filters. Depending on your chosen system, water treatment filters will cost between $35 and $100.
For your convenience, we provide a link for the cost of replacement filters for each brand.
Frequently Asked Questions about Water Filter Systems:
1. What is a Countertop Reverse Osmosis (RO) Water Filtration system?
An RO countertop water filtration system is a portable device that sits on top of your countertop and filters tap water to remove contaminants, improving its taste and drinking safety.
2. How does it work?
Water filtration systems can trap impurities and contaminants by using activated carbon, reverse osmosis, or multi-stage filters.
3. Are they effective?
Yes, most countertop filters are highly effective at removing common contaminants like chlorine, lead, and bacteria. Many of them claim to remove up to 99% of the unhealthy particulates from tap water.
Please check manufacturer certifications for specific claims.
4. What contaminants do they remove?
Depending on the system, they can remove chlorine, fluoride, heavy metals, pesticides, bacteria, and viruses.
5. Do I need professional installation?
No, countertop systems are designed for straightforward DIY installation without plumbing changes.
6. How often should I replace the filters?
This varies by brand and usage. Most filters last between 3-12 months.
7. Are countertop water filters portable?
Yes, many models are lightweight and easy to move, making them ideal for renters and travelers.
8. Do RO water filtration systems require electricity?
While some less expensive water filtration devices, such as Water Pitchers, do not require electricity, all of the Reverse Osmosis Water systems in this review require standard 110-volt electricity.
Electricity is required to “pump” tap water through the filtration system and into the clean water carafe.
9. What is the cost of maintenance?
Maintenance costs include periodic filter replacements ranging from $20 to $100 annually, depending on the model.
10. How do I choose the best one for my home?
When selecting the right system, consider factors like water quality, filtration technology, capacity, and budget.
11. How much “Clean filtered water” does a reverse osmosis system produce?
On average, most countertop RO water systems produce a 2:1 or 3:1 ratio. For example, a 2:1 ratio would produce 1 gallon of filtered water for every 2 gallons of tap water.
Conclusion
Countertop water filtration systems offer a convenient, efficient, and cost-effective way to ensure that your household has access to clean and safe drinking water.
These systems use various technologies, such as reverse osmosis, multi-stage filtration, and activated carbon filters, to cater to a wide range of needs and budgets.
A system suits every preference, from advanced options like the AquaTru to more affordable solutions like the iSpring CKC1C.
When choosing the right system, consider factors such as filtration capabilities, ease of installation, and long-term maintenance costs.
Investing in a countertop water filtration system gives you the peace of mind that your water is free from harmful contaminants and tastes excellent.
Select the option that best suits your household’s needs, and take the first step toward healthier hydration today!
References for Choosing Water Filtration:
- “About Choosing Home Water Filters” by the (CDC) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- “Guide to Better, Safer Drinking Water” by Consumer Reports
- Do You Need a Water Filter?” by Time Magazine
- “The Top 7 Benefits of Filtered Water” by Aquasana
- “The Importance of Water Filtration” by FloWater
- “10 Benefits of Home Filtered Water” by Puragain Water
