7 Best Countertop Water Filter Reviewed & Buyers Guide

by Jay | Updated on May 2nd, 2023

Water is a basic need. Unfortunately, you are never 100% sure that the water coming from the tap is clean and safe. The water that flows through your plumbing is most likely to contain other foreign substances that may threaten your and your family’s health.

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It is not certain whether the tap water source is sanitary, so having a countertop water filter is a wise technique to ensure that the water you drink or add to your cooking, even though it comes directly from the tap, is clean and safe.

Best Countertop Water Filter

Having this in your kitchen can rid your water of possible contaminants and harmful substances and reduce the risk of catching diseases that are acquired from dirty water. Furthermore, countertop water filters can also alter the pH of your tap water, providing your body with essential ions. 

There are already a lot of water filters in the market to choose from. However, if you do not have at least some basic knowledge about the product, you may be unable to make the most out of your purchase. In addition, you must ensure that the unit you bring home fulfills your household needs.

This post will list all the essential information you need to make the right decisions. 

7 Best brands of countertop water filters

1. Home Master TMJRF2 Jr F2 Countertop Water Filter

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This brand is at the top of the list of best quality countertop water filters available in the market. It can provide good drinking water free from possibly harmful contaminants that could affect your health. It filters out more than 90% of water’s chlorine, fluoride, and other elements. 

It is fairly easy to handle, and its petite size makes it a good choice for those with limited kitchen counter space. Installation is also quite easy, and it’s not bad to look at either. It can be a portable filter that you can relocate without hassle. You get the best value for your cash with this unit. 

  • Maximum water purity – triple-stage filtration process ensures up to 93% removal of chlorine, fluorine, and other contaminants.
  • Compact with high-quality performance, perfect for small-spaced counters

Pros

  • The compact design makes it portable
  • Easy handling and installation
  • Up to 93% removal of contaminants

Cons

  • The filter is not always readily available in the market
  • Requires extra care

2. Aquasana Countertop Drinking Water Filter System

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Aquasana has been in the business for several years and has always satisfied customers. This particular product is a testament to their exceptional work. The Aquasana Countertop Drinking Water Filter System guarantees up to 97% purification and cleansing of your tap water to make it suitable for drinking. In addition, the system can strip the water supply of unwanted chemicals like lead, chlorine, and others, affecting not just the smell and taste but the effect of contaminated water on the body. 

Another thing to love about this product is that it does not rob the water of the good stuff. You can still have the electrolytes of good drinking water like magnesium, potassium, and calcium, which benefit your health. The filter system is good for travel purposes as well. 

  • 97% optimal removal of chlorine plus reduction of levels of 76 other foreign matter, certified by NSF to be effective in eliminating lead content and other chemical additives
  • Does not add any other content to your water

Pros

Cons

  • Slow speed

3. Royal Berkey Water Filter 3 Gallon System Bundle

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Want a water filtration system that purifies your water and cleanses it of foreign contaminating agents all without changing its taste? The search is over because Royal Berkey has covered you with their 3 Gallon System Bundle.

From the product name itself, the unit can filter and store up to 3000 gallons of water. Regardless of how long the water is stored, the taste and overall quality of the water do not change. In addition, the sturdy stainless steel container ensures your water is protected from external contaminants. 

The Royal Berkey’s heavy-duty filtration system eliminates traces of bacteria, pesticides, germicides, disinfecting agents, nitrates, and other chemicals present in the water source while retaining the minerals essential in drinking water. 

Pros

  • The taste of your water does not change
  • Nitrates are also removed
  • Can filter and hold 3000 gallons of water

Cons

  • Unclear instructions for the installation 

4. CleanWater4Less Countertop Water Filtration System

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This model is among the top of the most widely renowned filtration systems in the market today because of its reasonably priced efficiency. Consumers prefer products that have a lot to offer at an affordable rate, and this particular product fits that criteria. 

Its state-of-the-art filtration capacity can accommodate almost 10,000 gallons of water in its life span. However, even with this huge capacity, it does not compromise its efficiency in removing the undesirable substances in your water supply. As a result, you can ensure a consistent flow of safe and clean drinking water in your home. 

  • Filters last for a very long time; no need for constant replacement. Easy installation with an instruction manual.
  • Uses granulated activated carbon – up to 97% guaranteed chlorine removal, filters large sediment particles and volatile organic substances that affect taste and odor

Pros

  • 10,000-gallon capacity
  • Kills harmful bacteria
  • Includes easy to follow instruction manual

Cons

  • No indicator if the filter has reached capacity

5. Santevia Countertop Water Filtration System

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Relying on pre-packaged bottled drinking water is a hassle and not to mention damaging to the environment. This filtration system by Santevia is one of the great systems with filter efficiency and longevity that will last for around a year before it needs replacement.

Although it may be a heavy investment, the long-term benefits you will reap will make it worth the money. The water is subjected to 8 stages of water filtration processes, which is undoubtedly very effective. 

Pros

  • Does no electricity to operate
  • Customer service is great
  • Guaranteed safe and purified clean drinking water
  • 8 stages of water filtration

Cons

  • Difficult to change filters

6. APEX EXPRT MR-2050 Quality Dual Countertop Water Filter

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This model alkalinizes your water and removes chlorine, arsenic, lead, and asbestos content. In addition, it disinfects your drinking water from potentially harmful microorganisms that cause diseases usually acquired from contaminated water, such as giardia and cryptosporidium bacteria. The unit is pretty easy to set up, and you can do it independently. 

It has five stages of the water filtration process at dual set-up. It is designed to fit easily with conventional faucet types, so the installation is not much of a hassle. The APEX EXPRT MR-2050 Dual Filter also has a 30-day money-back guarantee for its consumers in the event they are unsatisfied with the product, along with a 1-year service warranty for parts and performance defects. 

Pros

  • Easy installation 
  • Disinfects and purifies your water from chemicals and bacteria
  • 1-year warranty
  • Compatible with most regular faucets

Cons

  • Only good for those who want an alkaline model

7. Express Water Reverse Osmosis Water System

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The last one on the list but not the least is the Express Water Reverse Osmosis Water System. What’s the edge of this model? Unlike the typical 5-8 stages of the filtration process, this has 10 filtration stages for the water to go through. So there is no reason why you should still be hesitant about its output.

Every stage filters a different kind of contaminant, ensuring that the water that flows from it is at its maximum purity and safety. In addition, it uses a form of reverse osmosis, so there is not much waste in water at a fairly affordable price. 

Changing filters won’t be a problem, removing around 92% of undesirable water content like bacteria, extraneous debris, and toxins. It is, without a doubt, one of the most competitive models in the market today. 

Pros

  • Simple and easy changing of filters
  • Reverse osmosis preserves the water supply
  • Clear instructions
  • 10 stages of the water filtration process

Cons

  • Installing the water filters might take some time

Introducing the countertop water filter

From the name itself, this water filtration system does its job from the top of your kitchen counter by your sink. If you want to ensure that you have a steady supply of clean drinking water straight from the tap, you will want to invest in a countertop water filter.

We are not entirely assured of the safety of the water that comes out of our faucets. There is no guarantee that our main water source is not contaminated with much possible foreign matter.

With the help of this device, your tap water is stripped of many potentially harmful substances. As a result, you can be confident that the water you drink is safe even though it comes from the tap. This also eliminates the need to buy bottled water from the store. 

Aside from their convenient size, they are also portable and work well with almost any water source. It works indoors and outdoors and can be brought anywhere without hassle. 

Your Guide to your first Countertop Water Filter Purchase

There is already a wide variety of these products in the market today. It is easy to get confused about what to buy. You might have difficulty deciding which one to get because they all seem to serve the same purpose.

Well, worry no more because we will give you a simple guide so you can be informed about what you need to consider when buying your first countertop water filter. 

Type

Water filter pitchers and faucet filters are the two available market types of countertop water filters. This is what you should figure out first before any other details. The difference between the two is given in their names. You can either use the pitcher to store water or the one attached to the faucet. Either way, both types are great for household use. 

  1. Water Filter Pitcher

This kind of pitcher is the simplest and cheapest there is. It looks like a regular water jug, but it has a built-in filter that cleanses the water, removing extraneous matter and contaminants so that the water from the jug is guaranteed safe and pure.

The filtration process takes around 5-15 minutes, which varies mainly on the filters’ capacity and condition and the water’s quality. For example, if the water has too much foreign matter, it would take a longer filtration process.

  1. Faucet filters

These are typically placed by the kitchen sink, and a plastic hose connects the filter to the faucet. You can easily do the installation yourself; most units are already pre-assembled. All you have to do is connect it to your faucet. 

  1. Carbon Filter

More commonly known as an activated charcoal filter or coconut carbon filter, this kind of filter is one of the natural means usually used in the last two filter types we mentioned. It works best in removing chlorine content that can change the taste and odor of the water. 

  1. Ceramic filter

 Like the activated carbon, ceramic filters are made of many small pores on a cartridge. These pores strain large particles in the water along with bacterial contaminants. The ceramic media catches foreign substances as the water flows through the porous surface. The interior of that filter consists of sharp angles that maximize filtration to ensure that the water output is thoroughly cleaned. 

  1. Ultrafiltration

This is filtration on a higher level. The water undergoes an intensive filtration through a semipermeable membrane that rids your water of many contaminants and extraneous matter better than the conventional filters, which is why it costs more. 

  1. Water Distillers

This uses a distillation process where the water goes through a cycle of evaporation and condensation, and the resulting water output is free from foreign contaminants and other substances. Distillation is known to remove elements such as arsenic, lead, and fluoride and even offer some minor disinfection from bacteria and viruses. 

  1. Reverse Osmosis Water Filters

This type of filter is typically placed underneath the sink, but the pricey countertop filters have them sometimes. Reverse osmosis is one of the most effective water processing techniques and has the power to cleanse the water of almost all dissolved solids and foreign matter. Like ultrafiltration, water is pushed through the membrane and selectively removes and retains essential content. 

Filtration capacity

The next thing you should consider is the capacity of the filter. Remember that the device is intended to cleanse your water from chemicals, bacteria, extraneous matter, and other unwanted dissolved content that could affect its taste, odor, and even its effect on the body.

This aspect of the filtration system is not the same for all models. Some vary with the amount of time they take to complete the filtration process or the kinds of substances they can filter. There are also intensive filters that can strip the essential minerals and electrolytes from the water.

So to know what you want, you must first determine the substances that contaminate your water supply so you know what you want going. You can do this by testing the water you have at home with test kits you can buy on the market. These kits can provide information about water hardness, pH level, and heavy metal content, to name a few. From that information, you will know what filtration capacity you need. 

Size

This factor mainly depends on the size of your kitchen countertop. First, you have to estimate that the device is just the right size for your counter. You do not want this to take up too much space, especially if you have other appliances on your kitchen counter.

Then, depending on the filter you buy, you must find a good spot to place it, especially for faucet-type filters. These are typically small and can fit almost anywhere, but you have to allow a space for them near your sink. The same goes for pitcher filters as well. 

Alkaline Water

Alkaline water has many health benefits. It can slow down your body’s aging process, improves digestion, regulates your body pH, and gives the body more energy, among others. Fortunately, there are water filters in the market today that can increase the pH of your water supply to make it more alkaline. It usually comes in the form of a special cartridge. If you want or need alkaline water, you can go for the models designed for that purpose.

Price

When it comes to the financial aspect, we all have limitations. You have to decide on the price range within your financial capability. Do not believe in the misconception that the price is directly proportional to the quality.

There are well-performing models out there in the market today with reasonable prices. It all boils down to your needs because you can easily find a unit out there that can fulfill what you need.

Water filter models are specially built to perform specific filtration processes. Others can filter organic chemicals and substances, while others can remove heavy metals. Some units can disinfect the water and get rid of microorganisms. The bottomline is that you must find one model that solves your problem. 

Taste

A very common complaint about water filters is that they change the water’s taste. People most commonly consume chlorinated water, which is the taste that many people have gotten used to. However, it might be difficult for you to adjust your taste buds to the taste of unchlorinated water. 

In addition, some filters strip the water of the essential minerals that are beneficial to health, like calcium and magnesium elements, which are usually contained in hard water. This gives the water a distinctive taste. Back before water filters were used, people always drank hard water. 

If you use a filter that removes the calcium and magnesium content, you should expect a change in the taste of the water. However, suppose you still want to retain those minerals in your water because you do not want to deal with adjusting to the change in taste. In that case, filters are available in the market that refuels your water with those minerals, so the taste stays the same and gives you the same benefits. 

Maintenance

Like all other machines, water filters also need to be maintained every once in a while. No matter the price, you still need to allocate time and expense to keep it functioning smoothly.

Depending on the model, filters need to be replaced at regular intervals when they have reached their maximum capacity. You must replace it when needed because it won’t be able to properly perform its function if you use it beyond its capacity. The lifespan of filters can range from 4 to 12 months, depending on the model. 

Once again, price does not equate to quality or lifespan. You’ll be surprised to find that there are cheap filtration systems that last a lot longer than pricier ones. Also, heavy-duty systems have multiple filters, so when they reach their maximum capacity, you have to change all the filters at once. Hence, you also have to consider whether you can afford that maintenance. 

Usability

Faucet water filters are generally more convenient than water filter pitchers since they are just placed near your sink and faucet, switched on, and then are good to go. For the pitcher filters, you must keep them regularly filled with water so they can perform their function well. 

Though it may not be that big of an issue because some pitchers can hold up to 5 gallons of water, you run out of supply if you forget to monitor the water levels. Hence, you have to refill and wait for it to finish the filtration process before you can have drinking water available.

On the plus side, you can put in fruits or vegetables to make instant infused water, especially for those who are very conscious of their health. 

Certifications

You can ensure that a brand or model is reliable and of good quality when it has certifications from authorities like the WQA (Water Quality Association) or NSF (National Science Foundation).

These organizations only issue those certifications after thorough testing of the devices. They have very high standards, so you can be confident that the models that passed their tests are high quality. 

Water Testing

As we’ve mentioned before, it is wise to have your water tested for contaminants before you decide on the kind of water filtration system you need. However, if you have an idea of the content of your water supply, you can make an informed decision about the specifications required in a water filtration system. 

Maintenance and Cleaning

Countertop filters do not need to be cleaned frequently. The only maintenance you need to do is to replace the filters and ensure a constant flow of water. Unfortunately, it is very rare to find recyclable filters nowadays but if you do, make sure you research them first. 

Advantages and disadvantages of countertop water filters

Like every life decision, there will always be pros and cons. Let us give you the rundown on countertop water filters’ good and bad sides. This will allow you to weigh your options rationally. Read along to be guided.

Advantages:

  • Cheap

Countertop water filters are generally quite inexpensive. However, they’re affordable and have a wide price range. Whatever your budget is, there is always something for you. It’s safe to say that this might be the cheapest form of filtration system available today that offers a lot for its price. 

  • Easy to install

It does not take a lot of effort to install a countertop water filter. As mentioned above, there are two available countertop filters: faucet and pitcher. The former just needs to be attached to the faucet, and the latter just needs assembly, and then you can fill it with the water from your tap. Double-check to ensure the correct placement of the filter cartridges, and then you’re good to go. 

  • Space Saver

Another great thing about countertop water filters is their small size. They do not take up much space compared to other heavy-duty filters. Of course, they are not the smallest kind of filtration system, but for their performance, their size is already justifiable and convenient for their function. You do not have to worry about running out of counter space because these devices are very compact and petite. 

  • Low maintenance

As mentioned before, countertop water filters do not need to be regularly maintained and cleaned. All you have to look out for is when the filter reaches its maximum capacity; by then, you will have to replace it. Not to worry, though, because it’s going to be a long time before that happens. Other countertop filters have indicators that tell you when it’s time to change the filter cartridges.

  • Efficiency

Small but terrible. This is a perfect way to describe these devices. Albeit their small size, their capabilities exceed expectations. They can remove many contaminants from organic chemicals to mineral deposits to microorganisms.

As a result, you can be confident that these filters have the power to eliminate a lot of unwanted content from your drinking water that may affect the taste and odor, rendering it unpleasant to drink. 

  • Preparation and Set-up

It’s easy to prepare the filter cartridges before giving it a go. This process is called “priming,” where the user has procedures to follow to prepare the system for filtration. This is generally included in the instruction manual provided by the manufacturer that came with the package.

  • Remineralizes your water

Countertop water filters fill your water with essential minerals after filtration. Most of the time, the filtering process is so thorough that even the good minerals are eliminated from your water. However, these minerals can have positive effects on health. Luckily, some filters fuel your water with those minerals, so you can still enjoy the benefits of your drinking water. 

  • Eco-friendly

Plastic bottles amount to around 14% of the world’s total garbage problem. People buy bottled drinking water most of the time because it’s cheap and easily available, but it comes at the price of destroying the planet by adding up to the pile of garbage that contaminates our lands and oceans. With water filters, we can have drinking water straight from our tap and reduce our usage of plastic bottles. 

  • Portable

Countertop filters must be placed near your kitchen sink because they must be connected to the faucet. However, their size and versatility make them compatible with many water sources, so they can be carried even during travels and used in mobile homes as long as there is a water supply. 

Disadvantages:

The advantages sure sound promising. But there are also some minor downsides to owning a countertop water filter. Allow us to enumerate a few:

  • Aesthetic 

If you are a minimalist and do not like having a cluttered countertop, this device will pose a challenge for you. 

  • 100% efficiency not guaranteed

When we talk about removing water contaminants, this device does a good job. But there are also other alternatives in the market that can carry on more functions.

  • Limited to one spot only

Countertop filters only work with one water source at a time. One faucet per device. There are other filter options available that can connect to several faucets.

  • Slow Filtration Rate

Their size also comes at a disadvantage when it comes to filtration speed. It takes some time for countertop filters to finish filtering the water supply compared to other filtering solutions in the market today. If you are impatient, then this may not work for you. 

  • Always on display

About the aesthetics, if you are trying to maintain a minimalist, clutter-free look for your kitchen countertop, then this kind of water filter will be a hassle for you because it needs to be by your kitchen sink at all times. If that is a big deal, you may need to resort to pricier models. 

  • Convenience

Water filter pitchers are quite heavy to carry, especially when they are filled. They also need to be refilled now and then, and it will take some time to filter the newly-filled water, so you will need to wait a while. 

Do you need a countertop water filtet?

You might still have second thoughts about whether or not you need one. Check the list below if you fit one of the criteria.

  • Looking to transition from faucet filter to water pitcher
  • Residing in an area where the water source is city water
  • In search of budget-friendly water filtering solutions
  • Renting a place where heavy installation is not allowed

This type of water filtration system does not need a heavy installation that involves you tapping into the main water pipeline or altering your plumbing system is the primary reason we recommend it to those who fit the criteria above. However, its size also means limited filtration features that may not be as effective for a heavily contaminated water supply. 

Step-by-step guide to the installation of your countertop water filter

There is no need to seek the help of a technician or an expert when installing your countertop water filter. You can easily do it yourself with the right amount of determination and an adjustable wrench. But some units already come with a free plastic wrench in the package. So to successfully set up your filter, all you need to do is follow the procedure below:

  1. Position the unit beside the faucet, so there is a safe and sufficient distance between it and the unit itself. Also, make sure that there is no blockage for the line connecting the faucet and unit. 
  2. Detach the aerator from the faucet
  3. Take a look if your faucet has an outside or inside thread. It’s much simpler for an external thread because you will only need to connect the filter immediately. However, in the case of an inside thread, you will need an adaptor to attach to your faucet and screw the filter in. 
  4. Finally, attach the diverter valve to your faucet. You should be good to go after this. 

The different filtration methods

We are thankful that these types of devices were invented to make complicated processes simpler and easier. There is always a science behind the magic of these machines. The filtration methods that systems use vary from model to model. Here are some of the mechanisms that countertop water filters use to clean your water:

  • Mechanical Filtration

The most basic kind of filtration there is. Water passes through a filter with pore sizes that range from 0.1 to 0.3 microns, capable of stripping the water of solid sediments and particles along with some bacteria and other microorganisms.

  • Water Softening

The hard mineral deposits are being removed from the water supply at this stage. Toxins and heavy metals are also eliminated. This is possible with the help of ion exchange resins that mainly target calcium and magnesium ions to soften the water being filtered.

  • Activated Carbon Filtration

A lot of experts consider this part of being the most vital of all. Activated carbon is known for its extraordinary power to capture toxins and contaminants of many kinds. It can cleanse your water from organic substances, additives, disinfectants, etc. 

  • Alkalinization (Optional)

This is an option that you can either go for or not. This is achieved by exposing the water supply to infrared rays to reduce the acidic ions and have more basic or alkaline ions remain. 

  • KDF Filtration (Optional)

Kinetic degradation fluxion (KDF) is a filtration medium that neutralizes metallic and non-metallic elements such as lead, mercury, chlorine, and iron that might be present in the water supply. Hydrogen sulfide is also removed using this method. 

  • Silver Filter (Optional)

During this stage, further removal of toxins, heavy metals, and pathogens is done. 

  • Remineralization (Optional)

Other filter systems offer this feature where calcium and magnesium ions are reintroduced into the cleansed and purified water to preserve the benefits these electrolytes provide in drinking water. 

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Can countertop water filters remove chlorine content from the tap water supply?

Yes. Countertop filters can remove chlorine from your water. 

Which one, filtered water or bottled water, is a better choice?

Countertop water filters are the wiser, safer, and better choice than bottled water. However, aside from the fact that bottled waters are damaging to the environment, they also cost more. 

If the taste of the water and flow rate change, does that mean the filters need replacement?

Not necessarily. The taste of the water and the flow rate do not indicate the capacity of the filters. You have to check its capacity for yourself, so you can determine whether or not it already needs replacement. 

Can I connect the filter to more than one faucet?

Unfortunately, countertop water filters are only limited to one faucet at a time. 

Can bacteria form in faucet water filters?

It is possible that bacteria can accumulate in the faucet and other crevices if not regularly cleaned. Therefore, it is best recommended to flush the water for at least 20 seconds before turning on the filter and getting water to drink. It is also advised to wait at least 5 to 10 seconds after turning on the water filter. 

Do I need a huge countertop space to set up the filter?

Countertop filters are generally small so that you won’t need a wide space for them. 

Our countertop water filters compatible with all types of kitchen faucets?

Most of the standard faucets work with countertop water filters. However, we suggest doing a bit of research first to see if your faucet type is compatible with the model you are thinking of buying. 

Our countertop water filters free from BPA?

Yes. That is why shifting from bottled to filtered water is a good choice. Most, if not all, water filters are BPA-free and have undergone product testing by authorities. 

Do I still need to buy the replacement filters from the manufacturer of my unit?

Replacement filters are generally universal and have a one-size-fits-all characteristic. It’s usually the same for many different models on the market. The manufacturer usually puts that kind of information on the product description about replacement filter compatibility. If that information is not available, feel free to contact the manufacturer to find out. 

Can I use a countertop water filter in my RV?

As long as you have enough space to set up the filter system, then you most definitely can. That is the beauty of the portability of this kind of system because it can easily be carried anywhere and installed anywhere, provided there is space and a water supply. Plus, the installation is easy to do. 

Conclusion

It’s time to stop putting off making that decision that has been lingering in your mind for a while now. It is always wise to invest in a steady supply of clean and safe drinking water in your home. It feels good to know that your water is free from harmful substances. So as a parting word, here is our final suggestion:

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Among all the products we listed in this post, we highly favor this one because of its unusual water-preserving feature and 10-stage filtration process that ensures the safety and cleanliness of your drinking water.

Jay

Jay is a health and wellness enthusiast with expertise in water quality and nutrition. As a knowledgeable advocate for holistic well-being, Jay successfully manages Type 2 Diabetes through informed lifestyle choices. Committed to sharing reliable and authoritative insights, Jay combines firsthand experience with a passion for enhancing health."