Need a big-league water filter on a minor-league budget? A faucet filter turns any tap into a filtration system for less than the cost of a beer and a Fenway frank. Pint-sized but powerful, they eliminate a broad range of contaminants from dangerous heavy metals to the disinfectants that make tap water taste and smell bad.
Our testing and research shows — these eight models hit a home run.
Expert Picks:
- Best for Chlorine and Lead Removal: Brita Basic Faucet Plus
- Best for Fluoride Removal: Waterdrop Ultra Filtration System
- Most Durable with Stainless Steel Housing: Engdenton Faucet Filter
- Best for Overall Contaminant Removal: PUR Plus Faucet Filtration System
- Budget-Friendly Option: Culligan FM-15A
- Best Flow Rate: Wingsol Faucet Filter
- Easiest Installation: IVO Tap Water Faucet Filter
- Best for Sediment Filtration: iSpring DF2-CHR Faucet Filter
#1 Brita Basic Faucet Water Filter System
Brita sells more water filters than anyone in the world. If you like their pitchers, you’re going to love their faucet filter.
Features
- Activated carbon filtration reduces 60-plus contaminants
- 100-gallon filter capacity
- Reusable filter housing
- 0.6 gallon per minute (gpm) flow rate
- Filter change indicator
- Tool-free installation and filter changes
- NSF Standards 42-, 53- and 401-certified
Best for: Brita’s basic faucet filter is a reliable choice for broad-spectrum but budget-friendly filtration.
Not best for: Frequent filter changes may frustrate larger families of 5+ with higher-than-average water usage.
Pros
- Brita’s proven technology eliminates 97.5% of chlorine for fresh, natural-tasting water – and our taste test group agreed.
- In our research, no faucet filter removes more lead, so parents can relax.
- The LED filter change indicator takes the guesswork out of changing cartridges — there’s no more wondering if your filter is working.
- Effortless installation has you up and running faster than you can order bottled water.
- We really enjoy being able to swap out filters with one-click rather than unscrewing the cover.
- Filters will last up to 100 gallons or close to 3 months for a family of 4.
- NSF certification guarantees reliable performance — you’re getting what you pay for.
- We did the math and this filter is cost-effective, you’ll spend less than $60 annually to use the Brita.
- This system costs peanuts in comparison to what you get from other leading faucet filters.
Cons
- This model on fits standard faucets — we found that you’re out of luck with a pull-down faucet.
- Standard-capacity cartridges mean more frequent filter changes which is a problem for larger families of five or more.
What others have said:
Dominque Baker, May 2, 2023: I like that the water pressure stays at a steady pace and it was easy to connect to my sink. Soon I will do a clean water test since I live in Philadelphia for the simple fact that the water is toxic.
My Take
The Brita filter impresses. The build quality is sounder than expected for the price. While you can’t judge a book by its cover, the water tastes amazing, and the certifications inspire confidence. With Brita’s name recognition and their long-standing history of reliability, you can’t go wrong and that’s why it’s our number #1 choice.
Brita Product Updates & Improvements
- Brita has improved the ease of filter changes with a one-click filter change.
- Improved housing gasket for less chance of leaks overtime.
#2 Waterdrop Ultra Filtration System
Waterdrop’s ultrafiltration system removes contaminants that other brands don’t.
Equipped with cutting-edge nanofiltration technology, few faucet filters offer as much protection.
Features
- Premium activated carbon and nanofiltration membrane remove most substances, including bacteria, down to 0.01 microns
- 320-gallon capacity filters
- 0.5 gpm flow rate
- Permanent housing
- Push-button bypass
- Straightforward installation
- Fits most standard faucets
Best for: If you get frequent boil orders, the Waterdrop lowers your risk of illness in a water emergency.
Not best for: Stick with the Brita if you prefer the security of a filter change indicator.
Pros
- Waterdrop’s multi-stage filtration system effectively reduces chlorine and sediment plus dangerous heavy metals like lead — the water is healthier and we immediately noticed the water just tastes better.
- High-capacity filters last up to six months depending on usage.
- Affordable, long-lasting cartridges reduce ownership costs to less than $70 per year.
- We really love how convenient and fast it is to completely bypass water filtration for washing dishes with a push-button vs breakage-prone levers.
- Waterdrop’s design will save you sink space and won’t interfere with normal activities.
- Out of the box it comes with multiple faucet adapters to save you a trip to the hardware store — who doesn’t like to save time?
- A portion of your Waterdrop purchase supports sustainable, clean water initiatives.
Cons
- We would like to see Waterdrop include a filter-change indicator so we don’t end up needing to remind ourselves when a filter change is due.
- We also found that the installation can become cumbersome when needing to use an adapter.
What others have said:
Richard, Aug 31, 2023: This was extremely easy to install didn’t need the adapters. The water tasted great! We didn’t have to let the water run for over ten minutes like with other products. We only ran it for thirty seconds. This is going to save us a boat load of money, space and back pain from not having to buy cases of water.
My Take
Ultrafiltration is among the few filtration methods that reliably removes biological and aesthetic contaminants. Kudos to Waterdrop for adapting it to their faucet filter. Thoughtfully designed and well-engineered, the price is almost too good to be true. If you’re drinking from a risky water supply, it’s a bargain.
WaterDrop Product Updates & Improvements
- Filtration speed has been greatly improved and now you can fill a 32oz jug in less than a minute – we really love this improvement.
#3 PUR Plus Faucet Filtration System
Dollar for dollar, the PUR Plus Faucet Filtration System is certified to remove more contaminants than any other brand.
If its good looks don’t appeal to you, its quality will.
Features
- Activated carbon and ion exchange media eliminate over 70 harmful contaminants including lead, mercury, pharmaceutical residue and industrial pollutants.
- 100-gallon capacity
- 0.5 gpm flow rate
- LED filter change indicator
- Ultra-modern aesthetics
- Tool-free installation
- NSF 42, 53 and 401 certified
Best for: If taste is your problem, the PUR is the solution.
Not best for: Unless patience is your virtue, choose a model with a higher flow rate.
Pros
- Our research found no other brand is certified to remove more stubborn contaminants found in tap water.
- We like the industrial vibe of the horizontal design — You can choose from four distinctive finishes.
- PUR’s exclusive Mineral Core technology gives water a crisp, refreshing taste — in our tests, it edges out the Brita.
- The chunky, oversized bypass lever feels less fragile than the competition’s.
- Perfect for small sinks, the PUR’s low-profile housing saves space.
- Get twice the purchase protection than other brands with an industry-leading two-year warranty.
- PUR cares about quality — WQA and NSF certifications offer the ultimate peace of mind.
Cons
- If you’re pressed for time, we found in our testing that the sluggish flow rate makes filling pots time-consuming.
What others have said:
Matt Rolfe, Sept 6, 2023: I’m saving over 30 a month not buying bottled water. The water is crisp and refreshing . Best filtration on the market. I’ve been using pur water filtration for 5 years and it’s the best
My Take
It was love at first sight with the PUR. The space-age finish and horizontal design elevate the humble faucet filter to a work of art. But beneath its Hollywood looks is filtration so advanced that it received the Water Quality Association’s seal of approval — it’s like an Oscar for water filters.
Our testing confirms — the PUR produces some of the safest and best-tasting water on Earth.
PUR Product Updates & Improvements
- Now offers 8 color variations that will suit anyone’s kitchen style.
#4 Culligan FM-15A Faucet Filter
Drink bottled-quality water for pennies on the dollar with Culligan’s top-selling faucet filter. Simple but solid, it’s an excellent value.
Features
- Premium carbon block filtration targets chlorine and other aesthetic contaminants plus heavy metals like lead.
- 200-gallon cartridge capacity
- 0.5 gpm flow rate
- IAPMO certified to NSF 42 and 53 standards
- Foolproof installation
- Comes with adapters for most faucets
Best for: Ideal for the value-focused buyer, the Culligan is a rare blend of quality and price.
Not best for: This filter won’t win any beauty contests — if looks matter, consider the PUR.
Pros
- The Culligan reduces turbidity better than most brands for crystal clear water and you will notice this as we did.
- We installed this filter in less than a few minutes without a single tool which we like a lot.
- The double-capacity cartridges cut maintenance needs — and costs —in half.
- IAPMO certification meets or exceeds NSF standards — so you can drink with confidence.
- We noticed that the push-button bypass eliminates cumbersome and hard-to-clean levers.
- The low-profile design preserves sink accessibility when space is tight.
- At this price point, the two-year warranty is a pleasant surprise.
Cons
- Uninspiring aesthetics reflect the low price.
- In our trials, the plastic housing was finicky — over-tightening it causes leaks.
What others have said:
Kerry Carney, Sept 17, 2023: After buying both Brita and Pur faucet water filters and them both going south on me after only a few months (leaks on the faucet mount and terrible water flow with filter on or off) I decided to try the Culligan. Well, the third time was the charm! Simple to install and simple to use. What I really like is when you use the water filter and turn the faucet off it switches back automatically to the regular faucet water
My Take
Short on bells and whistles, the Culligan lacks the pizzazz of the PUR and the filtration capability of the Brita and Waterdrop. But if your goal is just to save money on bottled water by eliminating unpleasant tastes, why pay for more than you need?
Backed by a well-known company with decades of filtration experience, the Culligan is a fine albeit unpretentious filter.
Culligan Product Updates & Improvements
- Now provides multiple standard sink adapters excluding pull down faucets.
#5 Wingsol Faucet Filter
Fed up with plastic? Built like a tank, the all-steel Wingsol may be the last filter you ever own.
Features
- Combined granular activated and carbon block filtration tackles contaminants from chlorine to lead.
- 320-gallon capacity filters
- 3 liter per minute flow rate
- Food-grade stainless steel housing
- Hygienic design
- 360-degree swivel head
- Meets NSF 42 standards
Best for: If you value durability, the Wingsol is a forever filter for just a few dollars more than bargain brands.
Not best for: Well water with heavy sediment clogs this filter fast.
Pros
- The Wingsol is the only filter on our list that removes both fluoride and arsenic.
- We noticed the one-piece stainless steel construction has no welds to rust, crack or leak.
- The hygienic design has no seams to allow dirt, mold or bacteria inside.
- No plastic means no unwanted chemicals in your water.
- Triple-capacity filters last 6 months or more.
- Never wait for water again — the ample 3-liter flow rate fills 12 cups per minute.
- The swivel head can be installed vertically or horizontally to save sink space.
Cons
- Lack of a filter change indicator makes maintenance a guessing game.
My Take
If you’ve given up on faucet filters because of leaky plastic housings, try the Wingsol. The seamless design eliminates the stress points that ruin lesser filters before their time. Durable enough to outlast your faucet, it’s also among the few affordable filters removes fluoride and arsenic.
#6 IVO Tap Water Filter System for Standard Faucets
Why settle for less when you can have medical-grade filtration? IVO faucet filters rival reverse osmosis systems for a fraction of the cost.
Features
- Comprehensive four-stage filtration with coconut shell carbon and a hollow fiber membrane
- 1500-liter (396-gallon) filter capacity
- 0.5 gpm flow rate
- Three spray settings
- Retains healthy minerals
- Reduces water consumption by up to 30 percent
- A cinch to install
- NSF 42 certified
- Fits most faucets
Best for: The IVO is a good fit for homeowners in drought-affected areas who want to save water and their health.
Not best for: The Brita and PUR are better options if taste is your top priority.
Pros
- The IVO filters chlorine, sediment, microplastics and more while preserving calcium and magnesium.
- Easiest installation in the industry is a plus for the DIY- challenged.
- Sturdy build — the thick, leak-free housing promises years of reliable performance.
- The ergonomic bypass knob is gentle on your hands — if you have arthritis, this is your filter.
- Only the IVO has an unfiltered spray setting that increase coverage area while conserving water.
- Multi-stage filtration makes the most of an average flow rate — in our testing, the spray was brisk enough to wash dirty dishes.
- The IVO comes with more faucet adapters than other model for your convenience.
Cons
- Measure carefully — in a small sink, the bulky housing takes up too much space.
My Take
IVO filters offer the same medical-grade filtration used in hospitals. One of the few to remove microplastics, it’s a top-shelf filter. But it’s the IVO’s user-friendly features that caught our eye. We wanted to feature a model with a faucet-like experience and kid-friendly ergonomics. If you have children or seniors in your home who might struggle with a conventional faucet filter, you won’t be disappointed in the IVO.
#7 Engdenton Faucet Water Filter
Form meets function in Engdenton’s premium faucet filter. Well-appointed, it’s a luxury filter.
Features
- PAC carbon fiber filtration removes 70-plus contaminants.
- 320-gallon capacity
- 0.5 gpm maximum flow rate
- Food-grade, 304 stainless steel housing
- Flexible, 360-degree swivel head
Best for: Buyers with more to spend who want comprehensive filtration and a long-lasting filter.
Not best for: It’s overkill for homeowners with clean water who just want to tweak the taste.
Pros
- Ultra-absorptive media reduces the worst unpleasant tastes and odors.
- Plastic-free construction won’t release toxins into your water.
- The rugged metal housing won’t rust or crack — even under high pressure.
- High-capacity filters last three months or more.
- The swivel head makes quick work of any chore — filling tall bottles is no problem.
- Strong, faucet-like spray is ideal for tough kitchen tasks.
Cons
- Costs triple the price of competing brands — ouch.
My Take
Engdenton’s stainless steel faucet filter is cut above the Wingsol. Packed with advanced media to remove more contaminants, it offers premium filtration. Full featured, with a swivel head and long-life filters, it’s Ferrari in a field of Fords. If you can afford it, it’s a good investment. But it’s more than what most people need for the price.
#8 iSpring DF2-CHR Faucet Mount Water Filter
Want filtered water without a wait? Get it fast with iSpring’s faucet-mount filter.
Features
- Combined granular activated and carbon block filtration removes contaminants from sediment to lead.
- Huge 500-gallon capacity
- Incredible 1.5 gpm maximum flow rate
- Faucet-quality aerator
- Filters hot water
- Effortless installation
- Independently tested to NSF standard 58
Best for: There’s no better choice for the home chef who wants hot and cold filtered water without sacrificing water pressure.
Not best for: Buyers who rely on a good warranty to protect their purchase will be disappointed.
Pros
- Perfect for well and city water, the iSpring reduces chlorine, chlorine, lead, mercury, bacteria, cysts, hydrogen sulfide, VOCs and more
- Full-sized aerator offers a traditional faucet-like spray.
- Only the iSpring can filter hot water.
- Cartridges last up to 8 months — wow!
- Impressive flow rate — fill 10 16-ounce bottles per minute.
- The heavy-duty, food-safe construction is leak- and crack-resistant — housings are BPA-free.
- Choose from clear or chrome housings — the clean, uncluttered aesthetics complement both modern and traditional kitchens.
Cons
- Independently tested but not NSF-certified — ask for the test results.
- The short, 30-day warranty is well below industry standards and our expectations.
My Take
Low water pressure is my biggest gripe with faucet filters. It’s better than drinking dirty water, but it’s hard to love anything that stands between me and my morning coffee. Enter the iSpring, a filter with a flow rate so high you’ll barely know it’s installed. And it filters hot water, so you’ll use the bypass less often. If you want a filter with a high impact on water quality but a low impact on life, choose the iSpring.
The Bottom Line
Alright, if you’re diving into the world of faucet water filters, let me share my personal experience with two absolute gems I’ve tried. First off, the Brita Basic Faucet Filter. Now, I’ve always been a fan of Brita, but this filter took my appreciation to a whole new level. Every morning, I fill up my kettle, and the water is crystal clear. It efficiently removes over 70 contaminants, and here’s the kicker – it lasts for 100 gallons. That means fewer replacements and more savings. And trust me, the installation? A breeze. I had it up and running in minutes. Plus, the 2-year warranty gives that extra peace of mind.
But if you’re looking for a slightly longer-lasting filter, let me introduce you to the WaterDrop Faucet Filter. This one’s been a game-changer in my friend’s kitchen. It boasts a filter life of 320 gallons, which is impressive. The chlorine removal is top-notch, making every glass of water taste like it’s straight from a pristine spring. And the setup? Even my tech-challenged aunt managed it without a hitch. It’s also NSF certified, ensuring quality and safety.
Both of these have genuinely elevated my water-drinking experience. So, whether you’re vibing with the reliable Brita or the long-lasting WaterDrop, you’re in for a treat. Happy hydrating!
How We Chose
Digging deep into the realm of faucet water filters, our journey wasn’t for the faint-hearted. Just like a chef looking for that impeccable ingredient, we scoured and scrutinized. How did we refine our choices? Let’s pull back the curtain:
- Filtration Efficiency: Think of this as the filter’s PhD. Its specialty? Booting out contaminants like chlorine, lead, and harmful microorganisms. We delved into the specifics, ensuring each filter could truly purify to the nth degree.
- Flow Rate: We’re all for meditation and patience, but not when you’re parched and waiting for a glass of water. We gauged how quickly each filter delivered, drawing the line between rapid hydration and an infuriating trickle.
- Filter Longevity: A lasting relationship between you and your filter is what we aimed for. We verified the stamina of each contender, ensuring they could go the distance without compromising quality.
- Ease of Installation: It’s 2023, folks. Wrestling with your faucet should be a thing of the past. We wanted models that went on smoothly, no PhD or toolkit required.
- Design and Size: Your kitchen aesthetics matter. We looked for models that could complement various faucet types without resembling an alien appendage.
- Certifications: Think of these as the Olympic medals of the filter world. Validation from respected entities like NSF International or WQA was essential.
- Customer Reviews: The water filter grapevine was our ally. We sifted through countless feedback, searching for patterns of love, hate, and everything in between.
- Value for Money: Balancing initial costs, ongoing expenses, and the sheer quality of water delivered, we wanted options that justified every penny.
After this comprehensive evaluation, we’re presenting the best of the best, ensuring you get performance, endurance, and fantastic value.
Buyer’s Guide to Faucet Filters
Diving into Faucet Water Filters
Imagine transforming your kitchen into a pristine spring source. The allure of clean water on demand has never been more palpable. Let’s explore this refreshing landscape:
The Need for Filtered Faucet Water
Yes, municipalities do their bit to clean up tap water, but it’s a bit like having a guard dog that sometimes sleeps on the job. Enter faucet filters, the vigilant security detail for your water. Here’s why you might consider one:
- Taste and Purity: Imagine water as Mother Nature intended — crisp, fresh, untainted. That’s what a good filter delivers.
- Environmental Brownie Points: Every filtered glass reduces the mountain of plastic bottles threatening our planet. Your faucet becomes an eco-hero.
- Economic Wisdom: It’s simple math. Over time, the pennies saved from not buying bottled water accumulate into tangible savings.
Different Filters for Different Thirsts
Water filters come in all shapes and sizes, each with its unique flair:
- Activated Carbon Filters: Think of these as the organic food enthusiasts of the filter world. They’re great at tackling organic compounds and chlorine, but heavy metals and fluorides? Not so much.
- Ceramic Filters: Microscopic invaders, be wary. These filters are adept at barring bacteria and sediments, though they might occasionally turn a blind eye to certain chemicals.
- Reverse Osmosis: The SWAT team of water filters. They’re rigorous, handling contaminants from heavy metals to fluorides. However, they’re bulkier, so ensure your kitchen has the space and setup for them.
What To Expect
Diving into the world of faucet filters is an adventure. Here’s the lowdown on the highs and potential lows:
The Perks:
- Eco-Friendly: Envision fewer plastic bottles cluttering oceans and landfills. It’s like giving Earth a long overdue spa day.
- Economical Upside: As weeks turn to months, the reduction in buying bottled water begins to echo positively in your bank account.
- Instant Gratification: Fresh, filtered water at the twist of a knob. It’s almost magical.
- Flavor Upgrade: Water with an odd taste or peculiar odor becomes a forgotten nightmare.
The Possible Snags:
- Compatibility Issues: One size doesn’t fit all. Ensure your faucet and filter are in harmony.
- Routine Upkeep: Like any relationship, this one requires periodic attention (read: filter replacements).
- Volume Limitations: Perfect for quenching thirst and culinary endeavors, but not designed for a house-wide filtration.
Considerations Before Purchase
Embarking upon the faucet filter journey might seem akin to navigating a dense jungle, full of endless options and seemingly similar products. Fear not, our robust checklist below is your compass, guiding you through key facets to ensure your choice isn’t just smart, but utterly sagacious.
- Compatibility Check: Not all faucets and filters are a match made in heaven. Some filters can be picky, only attaching themselves to specific faucet types. Ensure to measure and cross-check your faucet’s size and design against the specifications of the filter.
- Cost of Filter Replacement: The initial price might be a steal, but if the filter replacement sets you back a pretty penny, those savings quickly evaporate. Compare, contrast, and calculate the long-term investment, ensuring it aligns with your budget.
- Range of Contaminants Addressed: Tap into the local water report to discern the prominent contaminants plaguing your tap water. Ensure that your chosen filter is adept at tackling these specific intruders, making every sip from your faucet safe and satisfying.
- Installation Simplicity: Unless you’re a secret DIY maestro, opt for filters that promise a hassle-free installation. A filter that comes with clear instructions and requires no special tools or professionals is a wallet-friendly choice.
- Certifications that Count: Eye those certifications carefully. Ensure that your filter of choice boasts validations from renowned agencies like NSF or WQA, affirming its efficacy in banishing specified contaminants.
- Warranty and Customer Service: Because life happens! Having a robust warranty and an accessible customer service team ensures that any unforeseen filter fiascos can be sorted with minimal stress and expense.
- Aesthetics and Design: Your kitchen is a sacred space. Choose a filter that not only performs impressively but also melds seamlessly with your faucet design, ensuring functionality and visual appeal go hand in hand.
- Water Pressure: Investigate how a filter might impact your water flow. Opt for a model that promises a compelling balance between proficient filtration and maintaining a decent water pressure.
- Sustainability: Consider the manufacturer’s commitment to sustainability. Are the filters recyclable? Is the packaging eco-friendly? Choose a brand that aligns with your environmental ethos.
Navigating through these considerations, remember, the right filter is one that caters not just to your hydration needs, but also aligns seamlessly with your lifestyle, budget, and sustainability values. May your chosen filter ensure every drop is a gulp of purity and peace of mind!
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FAQs
Top-tier models significantly improve water quality when chosen based on specific contaminants in your water source.
Yes, though options are limited. You’ll primarily receive filtered water unless you detach the filter.
Pricing often correlates with material quality and certification costs. Nonetheless, a higher price doesn’t always indicate superior quality.
his could be due to harmless air bubbles or residual carbon dust. A quick filter flush usually clears it up.
Most aren’t, given the heat-sensitive media. Some exceptions, like the iSpring’s DF2-CHR, cater to hot water.
Most filters aren’t designed for hot water due to heat-sensitive media. Exceptions exist, like the iSpring’s DF2-CHR, which utilizes heat-resistant carbon.
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