Learn more about what the best water filter of 2018 is. Discover the different types of filters and see how they each work and more.
Water directly from the tap can be filled with many different contaminants. It also can often taste or smell horrible. While you certainly can turn to bottled water, that can get expensive – not to mention, it is harmful to the environment to throw out all those plastic bottles.
A better option is using a water filter. Water filters allow you to drink your tap water without concern about contaminants, bad smells or awful taste. If you struggle with your tap water being too gross to drink, then you may want to consider getting the best water filter.
Using a water filter means you do not have the continuous waste and expense that comes with bottled water. You simply use the water coming out of your tap, filter it and then drink it. While it sounds simple enough, there are a lot of water filter choices on the market.
Not only do you have different designs and brands, but you also have to think about what works best for your family. It can make narrowing your choices down difficult.
We have put together a review of the 8 best water filter choices of 2018. We’ve included different styles and given our honest opinion about each of them. We’ve done the in-depth research to ensure accuracy and truth in what we present.
Water Filter FAQs
First, let’s look at some questions that are often asked when it comes to water filtration. This will help you to get know the product a little better and understand some of the important things to keep in mind when selecting your own filter system.
Do water filters actually work?
Filters do work and can do a good job of cleaning up your tap water. The important thing to keep in mind is that different filters offer different types of filtration. You should always check your tap water for the type of contaminants it contains before buying a filter. This will let you know what type of filter you need.
What contaminants are found in tap water?
The types of contaminants in tap water vary greatly depending on the area. However, there are some general contaminants to watch out for. These include:
- Fluoride
- Chlorine
- Pharmaceuticals
- checkHeavy metals
- Sulfur
- Benzene
- Carcinogens
- Parasites
Most water from municipal sources is treated to remove harmful substances, but often that treatment method adds additional problems. Keep in mind that tap water varies greatly, so getting yours tested can be helpful in knowing what contaminants are present. Furthermore, contaminants may not just come from the water but also from the pipes carrying the water.
What are the different types of water filter options?
Water filters are available in many different styles and designs. A popular option is the water filter pitcher. This is like any other pitcher except it has a special filter section where the water goes into a filter and then comes out at the bottom and is ready to be poured. There are also filters that fit onto the faucet. You also have the option of a whole house filtration system. The type of filter you should buy is really based on your needs and the extent of the contaminants in your water.
How can I get my water tested?
There are government agencies that will run water tests for you. You also can go through a private company. If you are looking at a whole house filtration system, the company that sells the system may offer testing for free. However, be wary of anyone who is not impartial as they could provide you with inaccurate results. It is usually better to go with an independent testing source that has no bias.
Our Review Methods
We want to be sure that the reviews we provide offer an impartial look at each product. To do this, we relied on our own opinions along with those of experts and consumers.
We went through the customer reviews on each product to present you with a complete picture of each product. We weighed the pros and cons of every filter, by considering the good and bad reviews for each one.
We also used our own judgment in weeding out bad reviews that were not really product related, and by discounting the good reviews that seemed too good to be real. We compared products and did our due diligence to ensure the information we present to you is as accurate as possible. Our hope is that you can use these reviews in your shopping to find the perfect water filter to meet your needs.
Overall Price Range of Water Filters
The prices for water filters range widely because of the different styles of filters available. When you are looking at price, pitchers will always cost the least because they are a contained system requiring very little more than a pitcher and a filter. They often run around forty dollars on average, but some can cost upwards of seventy. Prices often depend on the type of filter used. If it contains more filtration, it will cost more. Also, better-known brand names cost more than lesser-known ones.
When it comes to faucet-mount systems, they fall in the mid-range of pricing. They run around ninety and up. These are more complex and require more expensive parts than a pitcher, hence the higher cost. However, there are some brands where the cost is comparable to a pitcher, so you can get a good deal on these.
Whole-house systems are the most expensive because they are the most involved. They require professional installation, which adds to the cost. The system alone is usually between a grand and almost three thousand. Installation can add another one or two thousand dollars.
Comparison Table: Best Water Filter
Product | Details |
|---|---|
Best Portable: Apec Portable Countertop Reverse Osmosis System |
FILTER LIFE: 6 to 12 months UNIT TYPE: Countertop |
Best Countertop: Apex Countertop Water Filter |
FILTER LIFE: 1,500 gallons UNIT TYPE: Countertop |
Best Pitcher: Brita Everyday Pitcher |
FILTER LIFE: 40 gallons UNIT TYPE: Pitcher |
Top 8 Water Filters
Now, let’s look at the best water filters that we have determined for 2018. We have a nice mix of filters on the list, including all different styles.
We provide you with some key information on each filter to help you compare them based on your personal needs.
Apex Countertop Water Filter
This is a faucet filter. It attaches to the faucet but is a separate unit. You get the water out of a spout on the unit.
Key Features
- Removes common contaminants and cryptosporidium and giardia cysts, along with pesticides and heavy metals
- Hardware is included for installation
- Made in the USA
- Meets NSF International water filter standards
- Adds calcium, magnesium, and potassium back into filtered water for the best experience
- Filter lasts through 1,500 gallons of water
- Standard sized so you can use a range of filters
Pros
- Easy to install
- Provides a good alternative to bottled water
Cons
- Connection tube can get in the way and be unsightly
Brita Everyday Pitcher
Brita is a well-known name in water filtration. This is the standard Brita water filter pitcher. You fill it up at the sink and can put the pitcher in the fridge to enjoy cool, clean water anytime.
Key Features
- Certified by NSF International
- Holds 10 cups of filtered water
- BPA free
- Gets rid of the taste and smell of chlorine
- Removes cadmium, copper and mercury
- Includes a status indicator for the filter to let you know when to replace it
- Filters 40 gallons per filter
Pros
- Does a good job of improving the flavor of the water
- Easy to clean
- Affordable price
Cons
- Can be awkward to fill
- Have to wait until the entire pitcher of water is completely filtered to use
PUR Vertical Water Filter
This filter mounts directly on your faucet, so every time you turn it on, clean water comes out. It does sit vertically, which means the water travels through the filter to where it comes out.
Key Features
- Electronic indicator to tell you when to change the filter
- 3-stage filter process for complete filtration
- Available in black, white, platinum, stainless steel, and chrome
- One-click installation
- Filters 100 gallons of water per filter
- Switch to allow for unfiltered water
- Removes 70 different contaminants
- Filter adds back important minerals
Pros
- Easy to use
- Easy to install
- Updated design to get rid of leaking issues found in previous design
Cons
- Not compatible with pull out faucets
- Slower than regular faucet
Wingsol Faucet Water Filter
This is another faucet-mounted filter. It is vertical, which means it runs beside the faucet. The water comes out of the filter when you turn on the tap.
Key Features
- Uncrackable
- Durable construction
- Stainless steel housing
- Removes rust, dirt and sand
- Partially removes lead, chrome, chlorine, arsenic and mercury
- Filter works for up to 200 gallons
- 5-stage ceramic filter
Pros
- Durable and doesn’t leak
- Easy to install
- Compact design won’t get in the way
Cons
- Won’t work with pull-out faucets
Filtrete Maximum Under Sink Water Filtration System
This system is installed under the sink. It filters one faucet. There is nothing above the counter.
Key Features
- Reduces 99% of microbial cysts and lead, along with 97% of the taste of chlorine
- Removes rust, sediment, sand, and soil
- Filtration certified by NSF
- Easy installation
- Filter lasts for six months
- High flow of 1.5 gallons per minute
- Filter choices in standard, advanced, and maximum
Pros
- Very easy to install
- Long filter life
- Great tasting water
Cons
- Will leak if not installed correctly
- Flow gets slower as the filter ages
Apec Portable Countertop Reverse Osmosis System
This system is designed for easy installation and removal so it can be used by those who do not want a permanent system. It hooks directly to the faucet above the counter.
Key Features
- Attaches to most standard faucets easily
- Lightweight
- Uses reverse osmosis filtering
- 4-stage system
- High capacity filters
- NSF certified
- Three gallons per hour flow rate
- Filters last six to 12 months
Pros
- Easy to install and remove
- checkCompact size
Cons
- Takes up space on the countertop
- banDoesn’t work on all faucet types
Apec Top Tier 5-Stage Ultra Safe ReverseOsmosis Drinking Water Filter System
This system is installed under the counter. It runs the water through your faucet to filter all the water coming from it.
Key Features
- Removes up to 99% of contaminants in water
- Lead free designer faucet included
- 2-year warranty
- Leak-free fittings
- Extra lock clips
- 5-stage filtration process
Pros
- Easy to install
- Great tasting water
- Great flow rate
Cons
- Lowers water pressure
ZeroWater Water Filter Pitcher
This is a water pitcher that you fill from the faucet and it filters the water as needed.
Key Features
- Holds 10 cups of filtered water
- BPA free
- Water quality meter included
- 5-stage filtration
- NSF certified
- Filters last for 25-40 gallons of water
Pros
- Great filtration for pure water
- Easy to use
Cons
- Expensive filters
The Verdict
Because all of the water filters we reviewed are vastly different from each other in design, it is tough to pick one that is the best.
However, we feel comfortable selecting the Apec Portable Countertop Reverse Osmosis System as the winner. We choose this one because of its versatility and the strong Apec name. This type of filter works for anyone, as it can be easily moved as needed.
It has a very simple installation that doesn’t require getting under the counter or needing complex tools. It also has long-lasting filters and a good flow rate. At less than two hundred fifty dollars for the unit and then just around thirty once or twice a year for replacement filters, it is also affordable.
