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10 Best Drinking Water Filters 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.9 score

ZeroWater Official 5-Stage Water Filter for Replacement, NSF Certified to Reduce Lead, Other Heavy Metals and PFOA/PFOS, 6-Pack

The ZeroWater 5-Stage Replacement Filters are designed for those who want very thorough water filtration. Their 5-stage ion exchange process is excellent at removing nearly all dissolved solids, including metals like lead, chromium, and mercury, as well as harmful chemicals like PFOA and PFOS. This makes the water taste very pure and is ideal if you're concerned about heavy metals and other tough contaminants in your water. These filters are IAPMO certified, which adds credibility to their contaminant removal claims. Each filter lasts about 15 gallons, roughly a 6-month supply if your water isn't overly contaminated, and the kit comes with six filters, so you have a supply for a few years. The lifespan can vary depending on your water quality, and you can check when to change filters using a TDS meter.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,104
Contaminant Removal
Filter Lifespan
Installation and Maintenance

Most important from
89924 reviews

Contaminant Removal
The filters consistently reduce total dissolved solids to zero, delivering exceptionally pure water with a neutral taste ideal for tea and everyday use.
Filter Lifespan
Filter lifespan varies by water quality but averages around 11 weeks per filter in very hard water, outperforming off-brand alternatives by lasting 42% longer.
Installation and Maintenance
Installation and replacement are quick and secure with no leaks, making maintenance hassle-free.
Flow Rate
Water flow is moderate, prioritizing thorough filtration over speed, which suits those willing to trade off flow rate for purity.
other
Using these filters helps reduce reliance on bottled water, supporting environmental sustainability.
#2
9.8 score

Culligan ZeroWater Official Replacement Filter - 5-Stage 0 TDS Filter Replacement - System IAPMO Certified to Reduce Lead, Chromium, and PFOA/PFOS, 4-Pack

The ZeroWater Official 5-Stage Water Filter Replacement Pack is a solid choice for those seeking clean and great-tasting drinking water. It features a 5-stage filtration method that effectively reduces contaminants like lead, heavy metals, and PFOA/PFOS, making it ideal for households that prioritize water purity. The filters have an estimated lifespan of about 15 gallons, though this can vary depending on the quality of your water. Users are encouraged to monitor the Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) levels with a meter for optimal performance.

Rating
9.8
Filtration Method
Filter Lifespan
Contaminant Removal

Most important from
89924 reviews

Filtration Method
The ZeroWater Replacement Filter is an absolute game-changer for my drinking water! The 5-stage filtration process works like a charm, and I can really taste the difference compared to other filters I've used.
Filter Lifespan
It's easy to install, and the filter lasts a good amount of time before needing a replacement, even with daily use.
Contaminant Removal
Knowing it brings the TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) down to zero gives me so much confidence in the quality of my water.
Installation and Maintenance
It's easy to install, and the filter lasts a good amount of time before needing a replacement, even with daily use.
#3
9.7 score

Brita UltraMax Large Water Dispenser With Standard Filter, BPA-Free, Reduces Copper, Cadmium and Mercury Impurities, Lasts 2 Months or 40 Gallons, Includes 1 Filter, Kitchen Accessories, Large 27-Cup

The Brita XL Water Filter Dispenser is designed to provide clean, filtered drinking water while minimizing the need for single-use plastic bottles. With a large 27-cup capacity, it's a great choice for households that want to reduce impurities in tap water. The filtration method effectively reduces chlorine taste and odor, as well as contaminants like copper and mercury, making your water taste fresher and cleaner.

Rating
9.7
Flow Rate
Size and Design

Most important from
13826 reviews

Flow Rate
The filter speed is a lot faster than expected.
Size and Design
It's a decent size for a family of three and is reasonably priced.

Top 10 Best Drinking Water Filters 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.9 score

ZeroWater Official 5-Stage Water Filter for Replacement, NSF Certified to Reduce Lead, Other Heavy Metals and PFOA/PFOS, 6-Pack

Filtration Method: 5-stage ion exchange process
Filter Lifespan: about 15 gallons, 6 months
Flow Rate: straightforward
Contaminant Removal: removes nearly all dissolved solids
Certification: IAPMO, ANSI
Installation and Maintenance: fits ZeroWater pitchers, tool-free
Size and Design: 3.75"D x 3.75"W x 7"H

Chosen by 1104 this week

Brita Water Filter Pitcher for Tap and Drinking Water with 1 Standard Filter, Lasts 2 Months, 6-Cup Capacity, BPA Free, White

Filtration Method: Removes chlorine, copper, cadmium, mercury
Filter Lifespan: Two months for Standard, six for Elite
Contaminant Removal: Chlorine, copper, cadmium, mercury
Installation and Maintenance: Easy-fill lid, SmartLight filter indicator
Size and Design: 6-cup, 9.1"L x 4.6"W x 9.7"H

Amazon Basics Replacement Water Filters for Water Pitchers, BPA-Free, WQA & NSF Certified, Compatible with Brita Water Pitchers & Drinking Water Filter Systems, 6 Month Filter Supply, 3-Pack

Filtration Method: Steam-treated
Filter Lifespan: 40 gallons or two months
Contaminant Removal: Chlorine, zinc, cadmium, benzene, copper, mercury
Certification: WQA Certified against NSF/ANSI 42, 53, 372
Installation and Maintenance: Straightforward
Size and Design: 2.36"D x 2.36"W x 4.72"H

Brita Large Water Filter Pitcher for Tap and Drinking Water, Includes 1 Standard Filter, BPA-Free, Lasts Two Months, 10-Cup Capacity, Bright White

Filtration Method: standard filter
Filter Lifespan: about two months or 40 gallons
Flow Rate: slower than tap water
Contaminant Removal: chlorine, mercury, copper, zinc, cadmium
Installation and Maintenance: manual, freestanding, no installation
Size and Design: 10 cups, fits fridge shelves, BPA-free

Aquasana Whole House Water Filter System | 1,000,000 Gallons | Carbon & KDF Media | Reduces 97% Chlorine & Sediment | Includes Pre- and Post-Filters | Rhino EQ-1000

Filtration Method: activated carbon and KDF media
Filter Lifespan: one million gallons or 10 years
Flow Rate: 14.6 gallons per minute
Contaminant Removal: up to 97% chlorine and sediment
Installation and Maintenance: manual setup; ¾ inch fittings; filters replaced bi-monthly
Size and Design: 46 x 9 x 44 inches
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Buying Guide for the Best Drinking Water Filters

Choosing the right drinking water filter is essential for ensuring that you and your family have access to clean, safe, and great-tasting water. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is best for your needs. To make an informed decision, it's important to understand the key specifications and features of water filters and how they align with your specific requirements.
Filtration MethodThe filtration method refers to the technology used to remove contaminants from the water. Common methods include activated carbon, reverse osmosis, UV filtration, and ceramic filters. Activated carbon filters are great for removing chlorine, bad tastes, and odors. Reverse osmosis systems are more comprehensive, removing a wide range of contaminants including heavy metals and dissolved solids. UV filters are effective against bacteria and viruses, while ceramic filters are good for removing sediment and bacteria. Choose a filtration method based on the specific contaminants you want to remove from your water.
Filter LifespanFilter lifespan indicates how long a filter will effectively clean your water before it needs to be replaced. This is usually measured in gallons or months. A longer lifespan means less frequent replacements, which can be more convenient and cost-effective. If you have a large household or use a lot of filtered water, look for filters with a higher capacity. For smaller households or occasional use, a filter with a shorter lifespan may be sufficient.
Flow RateFlow rate measures how quickly water passes through the filter, typically in gallons per minute (GPM). A higher flow rate means you can get filtered water faster, which is important for busy households or when filling large containers. However, higher flow rates can sometimes mean less thorough filtration. Consider your daily water usage and how much filtered water you need at one time to determine the right flow rate for you.
Contaminant RemovalDifferent filters are designed to remove different types of contaminants, such as chlorine, lead, bacteria, viruses, and pesticides. It's important to know what contaminants are present in your water supply so you can choose a filter that effectively removes them. You can usually find this information in the filter's certification or performance data. If you're unsure, consider getting your water tested or choosing a filter that covers a broad range of contaminants.
CertificationCertifications from organizations like NSF International or the Water Quality Association indicate that a filter has been tested and meets certain standards for contaminant removal and performance. Look for filters with relevant certifications to ensure they are effective and reliable. This is especially important if you have specific health concerns or need to remove particular contaminants from your water.
Installation and MaintenanceConsider how easy it is to install and maintain the water filter. Some filters require professional installation, while others can be easily installed by the user. Maintenance involves replacing the filter cartridges and cleaning the system. If you prefer a low-maintenance option, look for filters with longer lifespans and easy-to-replace cartridges. If you're comfortable with more hands-on maintenance, you might opt for a more complex system with higher performance.
Size and DesignThe size and design of the water filter can affect where and how you can use it. Countertop filters are easy to install and use but take up space on your counter. Under-sink filters are hidden and save counter space but may require more complex installation. Pitcher filters are portable and convenient for small amounts of water but need frequent refilling. Choose a size and design that fits your kitchen layout and lifestyle.

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