We Tested 5 Water Filter Pitchers — Here’s What Actually Worked

We tested five leading pitchers side-by-side with Tap Score lab reports and daily use. Below you’ll find our full breakdowns — from the heavy-hitting contaminant removers to budget-friendly and alkaline boost options.

🔎 Expert Picks:

We tested five leading pitchers side-by-side with Tap Score lab reports and daily use. These are the standouts — from heavy-duty contaminant removers to budget and alkaline boost options.

1. Best Overall: Clearly Filtered Water Pitcher
2. Runner Up: Epic Pure Water Pitcher
3. Most Innovative: LARQ PureVis Pitcher
4. Budget-Friendly: ZeroWater 10-Cup Pitcher
5. Alkaline Boost: Santevia Alkaline Water Pitcher

Each of these top-rated water pitchers offers unique features and benefits tailored to specific needs. Whether you prioritize filtration performance, capacity, or budget-friendly options, there’s a perfect match for you on this list.

With that said, here’s our top 5:

📊 How We Test & Score

Every pitcher we review is sent through Tap Score lab testing to measure real-world contaminant removal. We run side-by-side comparisons using the same water samples for transparency and accuracy.

• Filtration Performance (40%): specialty carbon + proprietary media blend; reduces chlorine, fluoride, lead, and other contaminants.
• Certifications & Transparency (20%): NSF/ANSI 42, 53 & 372 certified components; backed by published lab data.
• Taste & Odor (15%): noticeable improvement in chlorine taste and overall water quality.
• Operating Cost (10%): ~\$0.50 per gallon (~100 gallons or ~4 months per filter).
• Flow/Pressure (5%), Install/Maint (5%), Build (5%)

👉 Learn more about our full scoring process

📝 How We Chose

We didn’t just take the manufacturers’ word for it. Each pitcher we included went through Tap Score lab testing plus at least a few weeks of daily use in a real kitchen. That gave us two views: hard data on what each filter removed, and what it was actually like to live with day to day.

• Did it actually make the water taste better?
• Was it a pain to fill or keep clean?
• How often are you buying new filters, and what’s the yearly cost?
• Is there real third-party proof (certifications or lab data) to back up the claims?

Plenty of pitchers didn’t make the cut (sorry, Brita and PUR) because they just couldn’t keep up. The five we did pick each earned their spot by excelling at something that matters most — whether that’s verified contaminant removal, budget-friendly upkeep, or extras like UV purification.

#1. Clearly Filtered – Best Overall

Best For: If you’re looking for a pitcher with a large holding capacity with the assurance of third party testing – look no further than clearly filtered.

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⏱️ Timelapse demo — actual fill time: 11 minutes 52 seconds.

🔬 Tap Score Lab Results — Clearly Filtered Pitcher

🧾 How Clearly Filtered Scored

Clearly Filtered topped our side-by-side tests, with Tap Score confirming complete removal of chlorine byproducts and heavy metals. Independent lab data like this is rare for pitchers and sets CF apart from models that emphasize features such as TDS meters (ZeroWater) or alkaline boosting (Santevia).

On the user side, the water tasted noticeably cleaner — crisp and free of chlorine bite — though the pour speed is slower than Epic’s pitcher. Filters last about 100 gallons (~4 months), which works out to ~$0.50 per gallon. It’s pricier to maintain than the other pitchers on our list, but you’re paying for a dense filter media that actually delivers on performance. Build quality feels solid and fridge-friendly, with a simple design that holds up to daily use.

Bottom line: If you want verified contaminant removal and don’t mind slower pours or higher cost, this is it.

Read our full review: Clearly Filtered Water Pitcher Review

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#2. Epic Pure – Runner up

Best for: Households that want a longer-lasting pitcher filter with solid everyday performance at a lower ongoing cost.

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🔬 Tap Score Lab Results — Epic Pure Pitcher

⏱️ Timelapse demo — actual fill time: 10 minutes 48 seconds.

🧾 How Epic Scored

Epic held its own in our side-by-side comparisons, cutting chlorine taste and odor while removing lead entirely. It doesn’t have third-party lab data as extensive as Clearly Filtered, but its NSF/ANSI component certifications add credibility.

In our Tap Score test, even a trace 0.5 ppb of lead (well below the EPA action level of 15 ppb) was completely removed. That shows Epic can handle contaminants when they show up, even in small amounts.

Our sample also showed a rise in TDS and barium, a result of mineral exchange inside the filter. Both remained well within safe limits, and the water still tasted cleaner in day-to-day use.

On the user side, Epic pours faster than Clearly Filtered — a win for impatient drinkers — and filters last about 150 gallons (~4 months). That works out to ~$0.33 per gallon or about $100–$150 per year, making it one of the more cost-efficient options for families that drink a lot of water. Build quality is solid, though the lid can feel a little loose if you’re filling quickly.

👉 Bottom line: Epic Pure balances speed, cost, and lead removal across key contaminants, making it a practical pick if you want reliable performance without the higher ongoing cost of Clearly Filtered.

Read our Full Review: Epic Filter Pitcher Review

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#3. LARQ PureVis

Best for: Tech-forward users concerned about bacteria buildup, with UV purification for peace of mind.

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🔬 Tap Score Lab Results — LARQ Pitcher

🧾 How LARQ Scored

In our side-by-side tests, the LARQ PureVis Advanced Pitcher stood out as the only model that combines filtration with UV-C purification. While the carbon + Nano Zero cartridge handled chlorine byproducts and heavy metals in line with our baseline city water test, the built-in UV wand added a layer of protection against bacteria and biofilm growth inside the pitcher itself — something no other pitcher in our lineup addresses.

On the usability side, setup took a bit longer than others since you need to charge the UV battery and activate the filter before use, but once running the app makes tracking filter life and PureVis cycles straightforward. In our trial, it filled in ~3 minutes 45 seconds, faster than Clearly Filtered, and the water tasted neutral with no trace of chlorine bite.

Filters last about 60 gallons (~2 months) with the Standard cartridge or up to 120 gallons (~4 months) with the Long-Last, putting cost at ~$0.50–$0.55 per gallon — similar to Clearly Filtered, but more than Epic. Build quality is solid, with Apple-like packaging and a reservoir that feels premium and durable.

Bottom line: If you want a pitcher that not only filters but also keeps your water chamber clean between refills, LARQ is the one to beat. It’s not the cheapest, but it offers a level of tech and reassurance others don’t.

#4. ZeroWater

Best for: Budget buyers who want “distilled-like” water with TDS readings at or near zero.

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🔬 Tap Score Lab Results — ZeroWater 10-Cup Pitcher

🧾 How ZeroWater Scored

ZeroWater is the only pitcher we tested that actually took TDS all the way down to zero — at least on some runs. Using the included meter, we saw readings bounce between 0, 3, and 11 ppm, which is still a dramatic drop from our 187 ppm baseline. That makes it the go-to option if your main concern is stripping everything out of your water.

The tradeoff is taste. With all the minerals gone, the water comes across cleaner but a bit flat compared to Clearly Filtered or Epic. Filters also burn out quicker — usually around 40 gallons — so you’ll be swapping them more often at a cost of about $0.50–$0.70 per gallon. On the plus side, the 10-cup design is handy, the spigot makes filling bottles easier, and the build is decent for the price, though the lid sometimes shifts if you pour at an angle.

Bottom line: If you want that “zero TDS” reading and don’t mind flatter water or higher ongoing costs, ZeroWater does exactly what it claims.

#5. Santevia Alkaline Water Pitcher

Best for: Anyone wanting budget-friendly filtration with the added perk of higher pH and mineralized water.

🔬 Tap Score Lab Results — Santevia MINA Pitcher

🧾 How Santevia MINA Scored

In our testing, the Santevia MINA reduced chlorine byproducts and heavy metals while leaving behind calcium and magnesium that boosted pH. It didn’t polish water as crisp as Clearly Filtered or ZeroWater, but it stood out as the only pitcher to actively remineralize, raising alkalinity for a smoother taste.

Day-to-day, the water felt softer and less acidic, though not everyone may prefer the subtle mineral notes. Filters last ~80 gallons (about 2–3 months), which keeps the per-gallon cost lower than LARQ or Clearly Filtered. Build quality is solid for the price, and the simple lid + handle design makes it easy to use without much fuss.

Bottom line: If you want a budget-friendly pitcher that both filters and adds back minerals for alkaline water, the MINA is the one to grab.

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📘 Buyer’s Guide

Not every water filter pitcher is built the same — and picking the wrong one can mean slow pours, pricey filters, or only getting surface-level protection. Some models excel at broad contaminant removal, others at taste, speed, or convenience. The best choice depends on what matters most in your kitchen.

That’s why we tested and broke down each pitcher on the three factors that actually matter in daily use:

• Filtration performance → what it removes (and what it doesn’t)
• Speed & usability → how long you’ll wait for a full pitcher
• Cost of ownership → filter life, price, and annual replacement costs

The tables below give you a side-by-side look at all five pitchers, followed by deeper insights into speed, value, and taste.

Pitcher	Capacity	Fill Time	Notes
Clearly Filtered	10 cups	11m 52s	Slowest in lineup
Epic Pure	10 cups	10m 48s	Still slower than average
LARQ PureVis	8 cups	3m 45s	Fastest in lineup
ZeroWater	10 cups	7m 07s	Balanced speed & performance
Santevia MINA	9 cups	4m 55s	Quick, smooth pour

📌 Take Note: A few minutes might not seem like much, but when you’re refilling every day, the difference between 4 minutes and 12 minutes adds up fast.

💰 Cost of Ownership

Sticker price matters, but what really adds up is the cost of filters. Some pitchers need swaps every couple of months, others stretch closer to half a year. Over time, that gap can mean the difference between spending $100 a year or $300+.

🧮 Helpful to Know: Annual costs vary with household size. Our estimates assume ~2 gallons/day — families may spend 2–3× more.

Here’s how the five stack up:

Pitcher	Filter Life	Cost per Filter	Swaps/Year	Annual Cost
Clearly Filtered	100 gal	~$50	4–5	~$230
Epic Pure	150 gal	~$50	3	~$155
LARQ PureVis (Long-Last)	120 gal	~$45	3–4	~$170
ZeroWater	40 gal	~$15	11–12	~$175
Santevia MINA	80 gal	~$20	6	~$116

📌 Take Note: Over three years, filter swaps often cost more than the pitcher itself — especially for high-consumption households.

🧪 Contaminant Reduction

In our testing, the biggest difference between pitchers wasn’t speed — it was what they actually removed. ZeroWater, for example, is laser-focused on TDS, while Clearly Filtered and Epic Pure go after hundreds of contaminants including PFAS, heavy metals, and VOCs.

The marketing numbers can get flashy (365+ sounds great on paper), but what really matters are the certifications and lab reports to back those claims.

Here’s how the five compare:

Pitcher	Reported Contaminants Removed*	Certifications / Claims
Clearly Filtered	365+	NSF/ANSI 42, 53, 401, 473 (component-level); independent lab reports
Epic Pure	200+	NSF/ANSI 42, 53, 401; third-party lab tested
ZeroWater	23 (per NSF data)	NSF/ANSI 42, 53; strongest on TDS removal
LARQ PureVis	~80–100	Independent testing; UV adds bacteria control
Santevia MINA	~30+	Independent testing; focused on chlorine, some metals, VOCs, plus remineralization

*Manufacturer and independent lab claims; not all are NSF-certified. NSF 42 covers chlorine/taste, while 53, 401, and 473 cover health-related contaminants such as lead, VOCs, and PFAS.

🧠 Good to Know: Pitchers like Clearly Filtered and Epic Pure advertise hundreds of contaminants removed — but only certifications prove it. Always look for NSF/ANSI numbers, not just marketing claims.

💧 Taste & Minerals

Clean water isn’t just about what’s removed — it’s also about how it tastes once it hits the glass. Some pitchers strip everything out, leaving water flat or neutral, while others add back minerals for a smoother, alkaline profile. In our testing, this was one of the biggest “feel” differences between models.

Here’s the quick breakdown:

Pitcher	Adds Minerals?	Taste Profile	Notes
Clearly Filtered	No	Crisp, clean	Best for cutting chlorine bite
Epic Pure	No	Clean, balanced	Similar to CF, slightly slower flow
ZeroWater	No	Neutral, flat	All minerals stripped out (0 TDS)
LARQ PureVis	No	Fresh, neutral	UV keeps pitcher fresher longer
Santevia MINA	Yes (Ca, Mg, K)	Smooth, alkaline	pH boost ~+2.0, softer taste

💧 Helpful to Know: “Zero” TDS doesn’t always mean better taste — some people prefer the smoother, mineral-rich water from pitchers like Santevia.

⚖️ Should You Care About TDS?

TDS stands for Total Dissolved Solids — minerals, salts, and metals dissolved in water. Some are beneficial (like calcium and magnesium), while others are harmless fillers (like sodium or chloride).

Why TDS can be high:

• Seasonal shifts in water sources (e.g., reservoirs vs. wells).
• Added treatment chemicals (like chlorine, chloramine, or fluoride).
• Natural geology (limestone = higher calcium/magnesium).
• Household plumbing (copper, lead, or iron leaching trace amounts).

👉 Important: A high TDS reading doesn’t automatically mean unsafe water. It just shows there’s more “stuff” in your water — not whether it’s good or bad.

• ZeroWater & RO systems: strip everything, giving a flat, “empty” taste.
• Pitchers like Clearly Filtered, Epic, LARQ: focus on harmful contaminants (lead, THMs, PFAS) while leaving minerals behind. That’s why TDS may stay steady or rise slightly — and that’s not a flaw.

Want the full breakdown? See our guide: How to Reduce TDS in Water.

💧 City Water vs. Well Water

Pitcher filters are designed for treated municipal water, not private wells. City water typically has chlorine and disinfection byproducts (THMs, PFAS, metals) — exactly what pitchers excel at reducing.

Well water, on the other hand, can contain bacteria, iron, manganese, or sulfur — contaminants pitchers aren’t built to handle. If you’re on a private well, you’ll want a dedicated whole house or under-sink system rated for microbial and heavy-metal removal. Pitchers can still polish taste, but they aren’t a primary safety solution.

🔍 Certifications

Big contaminant claims don’t mean much without testing or certifications to back them up. NSF/ANSI standards are the benchmark — but each one covers something different:

• NSF/ANSI 42 → chlorine, taste, and odor
• NSF/ANSI 53 → heavy metals like lead, VOCs, and pesticides
• NSF/ANSI 401 → “emerging contaminants” (pharmaceuticals, BPA, etc.)
• NSF/ANSI 473 → PFAS reduction

Other credible bodies include the WQA product listings and IAPMO certification database.

Some pitchers only meet taste standards, while others go much deeper. Independent lab reports can also add credibility when full NSF certification isn’t published.

Here’s how each pitcher stacks up:

Pitcher	Certifications / Testing	Transparency
Clearly Filtered	NSF/ANSI 42, 53, 401, 473 (component-level); independent PFAS testing	High — publishes reports + certification details
Epic Pure	NSF/ANSI 42, 53, 401; independent third-party lab tested	High — makes test data available
ZeroWater	NSF/ANSI 42 & 53 (lead, chromium); focus on TDS removal	Moderate — publishes some certs, less broad coverage
LARQ PureVis	Independent testing for chlorine, bacteria; UV for microbes	Moderate — transparency improving, but limited NSF certs
Santevia MINA	Independent testing for chlorine + metals; no NSF listings	Low — focuses on performance claims without cert detail

🔍 Good to Know: NSF 42 only guarantees chlorine and taste improvement — for real contaminant protection, look for 53, 401, or independent lab data.

📝 Final Thoughts

Choosing the right water filter pitcher isn’t about chasing the biggest number on the box — it’s about matching the pitcher to your needs.

• If broad contaminant protection is your priority, Clearly Filtered delivers the widest coverage, though at a higher cost and slower flow.
• If you want a solid all-arounder with good speed and balanced cost, Epic Pure is a strong middle ground.
• For those chasing zero TDS and crystal-clear taste in coffee or tea, ZeroWater stands out — just know filters won’t last long in high-TDS areas.
• If you value tech and low-maintenance, LARQ’s UV system keeps things fresher with less fuss.
• And if you prefer a smoother, alkaline taste at the lowest cost of ownership, Santevia MINA is the budget-friendly pick.

At the end of the day, every pitcher here improves your water — it just comes down to whether you care more about speed, cost, taste, or contaminant coverage. Use the tables above as your shortcut, and you’ll land on the one that actually fits your kitchen.