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?
What contaminants are found in tap water?
What are the different types of water filter options?
How can I get my water tested?
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 judgement 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 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 | FILTER LIFE: 6 to 12 months UNIT TYPE: Countertop |
Best Countertop | FILTER LIFE: 1,500 gallons UNIT TYPE: Countertop |
Best 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
Pros
Cons
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
Pros
Cons
This filter mounts directly on your faucet, so every time you turn it on, clean water comes out. It does sit horizontally, which means the water travels through the filter to where it comes out.
Key Features
Pros
Cons
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
Pros
Cons
This system is installed under the sink. It filters one faucet. There is nothing above the counter.
Key Features
Pros
Cons
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
Pros
Cons
This system is installed under the counter. It runs the water through your faucet to filter all the water coming from it.
Key Features
Pros
Cons
This is a water pitcher that you fill from the faucet and it filters the water as needed.
Key Features
Pros
Cons
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.
