Best water filter: 11 of the best water filter pitchers and faucets for your home

All of the best water filters, to make staying hydrated with fresh water easier than ever

LifeStraw Home Water Filter Pitcher in white kitchen beside glass of water and plant
(Image credit: Life-Straw)

With the best water filter on hand, your water will taste better than ever — and you'll be protected from any contaminants at the same time. This essential purchase is one that will benefit you for years to come, so tick it off your list now and start reaping the rewards with a fresh supply of water at all times. 

There's a sustainable element to investing in one of these water filters, too, as they allow you to substantially cut down on the amount of single-use plastic you need to buy. With one of these filters, you can fill up your reusable bottle for on-the-go hydration any time, and have a constant supply of water in the fridge. If you want to ensure that you're getting the maximum level of nutrients from your other drinks too, you can also invest in the best juicer, and grab all of your favorite drinks at home.

For a stress-free way to get the water quality you want, then a water filter pitcher is your easiest option, but can also find water filters for under your sink, and faucets that are easier to install than you might assume. Faucets and built-in filters will allow you to get fresh water whenever you want it, so if you're always on the go, then they might be the most practical option for you. Regardless of how you want to get it, we've got all of the options you need to know about, so pick out your favorite and get one step closer to noticeably fresher water. 


The best water filters to buy in 2022

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Best water filters: Image of ZeroWater filter jug

(Image credit: ZEROWATER)

1. ZeroWater ZP-010 10 Cup Water Filter Pitcher

The best water filter pitcher

Specifications

Type of filter: Pitcher
What it filters: 99% of total dissolved solids
Colors available: 1
Capacity: 56oz

Reasons to buy

+
Smart reading 
+
Pours well
+
Various sizes

Reasons to avoid

-
Best for large refrigerators

The ZeroWater claims to turn wine into water (why would anyone want to do that?) and while we haven't tested that, it does turn our rather chlorinated water into something crisp clean, and free from the smell of chemicals. 

Fresh water guaranteed 
This filter boasts that it removes 99% of total dissolved solids – so not only dust and rust that could be in your water, but soluble minerals, salt, and metals like lead, to name just a few. The jug itself is rather weighty even before filling due to the five-layer filter, but it is easy to hold and pours cleanly. 

It’s smart
This filter comes with a handy digital monitor that measures water quality. The lower the reading, the cleaner the water. This is great for comparing the quality of your water before and after, but more importantly, allows you to tell when the filter is due a change. 

Size matters
The one issue is the width. It is more than some fridge doors can accommodate and to put on a shelf you may need to move the shelf above, reducing the storage space. 

If the six-cup model isn't big enough for you, there are two 10-cup models (one round, one the same as this), a 23-cup pitcher with a spigot, and a 40-cup dispenser perfect for parties.

Best water filters: Image of BRITA water filter

(Image credit: BRITA)

2. Brita Basic Faucet Water Filter System

The best water filter on faucet

Specifications

Type of filter: Faucet filter
What it filters: 99% of lead, chlorine and more
Colors: 2
Capacity: N/A

Reasons to buy

+
Discreet
+
Space-saving
+
Filter change indicator

Reasons to avoid

-
Impacts flow rate

The Brita Basic Faucet Water Filter System can be hooked up to your faucet and will filter water before it's even entered the sink. 

Easy to install
Some faucet water filters require professional installation, but this one requires no tools and can be left for four months before the filter needs replacing.

What it filters
Brita is one of the most reliable water filtration brands out there, and the Basic Faucet Water Filter System removes 99% of lead, chlorine, asbestos, and other particulates.

A space saver
For those who are not looking for a water filter pitcher, a water filter faucet will give you the same great-tasting water but without the need for another bulky item in your refrigerator. 

water filter

(Image credit: LifeStraw)

3. LifeStraw Home Water Filter Pitcher

The best water filter for home

Specifications

Type of filter: Pitcher
What it filters: Bacteria, parasites, microplastics and heavy metals
Colors available: 4
Capacity: 7-cup or 10-cup

Reasons to buy

+
Elegant design
+
Option to choose glass not plastic
+
Every purchase includes a charity donation

Reasons to avoid

-
The glass options isn’t available in all sizes

Simple to use and easy to clean, this water filtration pitcher claims to be the only model that protects against bacteria, parasites, microplastics, and heavy metals including lead and mercury. 

Sustainability
The sustainable design is made from BPA-free plastic or glass, and its sleek look is certainly a step above other water filters. It wouldn’t look out of place on the table at a dinner party. 

Love the look
Available in 10 and 7-cup sizes, you can choose the size that works best for your family. There’s a glass option for the 7-cup size, but not for the 10-cup. You can also choose from a cobalt, aqua, or white filter insert. 

A good cause
Through LifeStraw’s global Give Back Program a purchase helps provide clean drinking water for schools in the developing world.

Best water filter: Image of APEC filter

(Image credit: APEC)

4. Apec Countertop Drinking Water Filter

The best countertop water filter

Specifications

Type of filter: Countertop
What it filters: Chlorine taste and odor, heavy metal and controls microorganisms, bacteria, cysts and turbidity
Colors available: 7
Capacity: N/A

Reasons to buy

+
No installation needed 
+
Long lasting filter 
+
Easy to use
+
Reasonable price

Reasons to avoid

-
Only fits on standard taps and not compatible with other designs
-
Unappealing design

If you don’t want the hassle of an extensive installation process that usually comes with sink or tap filtration systems, this filters water directly from your countertop. Here's everything you need to know:

No installation needed
Unlike most under-the-sink or tap filters that require installation, this filter connects directly into your tap and sits next to it on the counter. It’s easy to install and the fact you need only plug it in and then you can drink from it, makes it more convenient, striking the perfect balance. Bear in mind, this doesn’t fit all tap dimensions so just make sure it is suitable before you buy. 

3-in-1 ceramic filter
This combined, alkaline system effectively gets rid of harmful contaminants such as chlorine, radon, pesticides, and more. Making this a superior water filter to other models.  

Best water filters: Image of Biocera water filter

(Image credit: Biocera)

5. Biocera Alkaline Antioxidant Water Filter Pitcher

The best water filter for alkaline water

Specifications

Type of filter: Alkaline
What it filters: Pollutants
Colors available: 1
Capacity: 53oz

Reasons to buy

+
Creates alkaline water 
+
Elegant design
+
Indicator reminds you to change the cartridge

Reasons to avoid

-
Expensive if you’re only looking to filter

Different from regular water filters, the Biocera Jug not only purifies but transforms tap water into alkaline water which is rich in hydrogen. 

The credentials
Made by a Korean brand that has expertise in the use of natural bioceramics to enrich and purify drinking water, it transforms what comes out of your tap, increasing its pH to anywhere between 9 and 9.5.

Alkaline living
Many health experts advocate for the benefits of alkaline living, which is otherwise expensive to obtain. Some have concerns that their water filters will remove all the good minerals from their water, along with the bad. The Biocera is designed to enrich the water with essential minerals while removing pollutants. 

Easy to use
The jug has a modern, soft shape design, a comfortable grip, and is easy to use and refill. A great option for anyone seeking purified water or pursuing an alkaline diet.

Best water filter: Image of LifeStraw bottle

(Image credit: LifeStraw)

6. Lifestraw Go - Water Bottle with Filter

The best filter water bottle

Specifications

Type of filter: Water bottle
What it filters: E-coli, parasites, micro-plastics, chemicals, chlorine, pesticides, turbidity, reduces odor and bad taste
Colors available: 3
Capacity: 23.6oz

Reasons to buy

+
Can access water anywhere to filter
+
BPA-free
+
Easy to clean, dishwasher safe
+
Fold-away straw

Reasons to avoid

-
Strong suction is needed for straw

If you’re constantly on the move or a keen traveler, the LifeStraw Go can filter water from practically anywhere. This will also save valuable time looking for a store to buy water.

Portable and convenient
The LifeStraw Go is the ideal travel companion for filtering water on the move. The best thing is, you’ll no longer have to worry about contamination or stomach bugs on vacation!  It’s also convenient for hiking or camping expeditions where you can filter water from a stream or river.

Easy to use 
As far as water filters go, this is pretty simple to use. A filter is attached to the straw, so your water goes through filtration before you start drinking. A minor downside is the straw is small and may need stronger suction. But this is more user-friendly than most.

Best water filters: Zerowater filter

(Image credit: Best water filters)

7. Zerowater Ready-Pour Water Filter Pitcher

The best large water filter for families

Specifications

Type of filter: Water pitcher
What it filters: Chlorine, other contaminants, reduces 99.6% of all total dissolved solids
Colors available: 1
Capacity: 182.5oz

Reasons to buy

+
Can dispense up to 23 cups
+
Large capacity
+
Comes with a water quality meter
+
Affordable price

Reasons to avoid

-
Not dishwasher safe

If you’re after a practical filter with a large capacity, this water pitcher is a great pick. Best of all, it’s simple and easy for all the family to use. Here's why we love it:  

Easy ‘push to dispense’ spout 
When you’re feeling dehydrated, you need a quick dispense to quench your thirst. This water pitcher has a one-hand, pull and pour button spout to quickly fill your glass with ease. A convenient feature for when you have a busy household. 

Large capacity dispenser 
This happens to be one of the largest capacity water filter dispensers on the market, holding up to 23 cups. Making this the ideal pitcher for large families or gatherings will save you time on refilling.  

Best water filter: Image of BRITA filter

(Image credit: BRITA)

8. Brita Monterery Water Filter Pitcher with Longlast Water Filter

The best water filter pitcher for longevity

Specifications

Type of filter: Water pitcher
What it filters: Reduces 99% of lead, chlorine (taste and odor), cadmium, mercury, benzene, asbestos and more
Colors available: 1
Capacity: 80oz

Reasons to buy

+
Long lasting filter
+
Electronic filter indicator
+
Easy to clean
+
Sleek design

Reasons to avoid

-
Pitcher a bit small for families

Should it be a water filter pitcher that you are searching for, to go from your fridge and to your table, then this one from Brita should be it.

Long-lasting filter
If you don’t enjoy the hassle of often changing filters, this pitcher comes with an impressive, long-life filter. Lasting for six months, this is four times longer than other filter brands. This is also cost-effective, saving you money in the long term.

Electronic filter indicator
A convenient feature located on the lid lets you know when the filter is due to be replaced. This way there’s no guesswork, and you’ll still be getting great-tasting water.

Best water filter: Image of Brita water filter bottle

(Image credit: BRITA)

9. Brita Premium 20oz Filtering Double Wall Insulated Water Bottle

The best water filter for hiking

Specifications

Type of filter: Water bottle
What it filters: Reduces chlorine, and more
Colors available: 9
Capacity: 20oz

Reasons to buy

+
Keeps water cold all day
+
Attractive stainless steel
+
Can fit into any cup holder

Reasons to avoid

-
Costly
-
Straw is bigger than most

When you’re out and about, whether at the grocery store or on a long hike, your water is likely to lose its cool throughout the day. This filter water bottle is ideal for keeping your water at an ice cold temperature much longer.

Keeps water cold for up to 24 hours
Nobody enjoys the taste of ice-cold water turning tepid. This water bottle is designed with a double wall insulation that keeps water cold all day. This is perfect for when you’re constantly on the move, or on a hot summer’s day.

Easy to use when you’re on the move
This features a one-handed push button lid which is handy for when you’re commuting or in the car. Bear in mind, the straw is bigger than other brands. 

PUR water pitcher

(Image credit: Wayfair)

10. Pur 7-Cup Water Pitcher and Filter

The best budget water filter

Specifications

Type of filter: Water pitcher
What it filters: Removes mercury, chlorine, copper, certain industrial pollutants and certain pharmaceuticals
Colors available: 1
Capacity: 56oz

Reasons to buy

+
Fast flow pitcher
+
Compact to easily fit in the fridge
+
Easy to use
+
Good price

Reasons to avoid

-
Not dishwasher safe
-
Plastic lid not as durable as other models

If you’re after an all-around water filter that purifies fast, delivers great taste, and can easily fit inside the fridge, this PUR water pitcher and filter does it all.

Faster flow pitcher
For many pitchers, it can take a long time for the water to filter through. However, this model features a faster flow which makes refilling quick and easy.  

Budget-friendly
If you want great-tasting, filtered water but don’t want to pay a premium, the PUR Water Pitcher and Filter offer great value for money. For just under $25, this gives you everything you would need.  

Best water filter: Image of Brita filter system

(Image credit: BRITA)

11. Brita Extra Large 18 Cup Filtered Water Dispenser

The best water filter for your refridgerator

Specifications

Type of filter : Water pitcher
What it filters: Lead, chlorine (taste and odor), cadmium, mercury, benzene, asbestos and more
Colors available: 1
Capacity : 142oz

Reasons to buy

+
Handy spout for filling
+
Can dispense 18 cups
+
Indicator reminds you when to fill up

Reasons to avoid

-
None we can think of!

If you're a Brita enthusiast, but need a supply of fresh water on a larger scale, then pick up this 18-cup filter jug for your fridge. 

Refill indicator
This jug has the excellent feature of an electronic indicator, which means that you should never be left in limbo without fresh water again. It can also filter a really impressive range of contaminants.

Longlast filters and easy to fill spout
Another great design feature is the ultra-longlasting filters, which are also compatible with all other Brita filters for ease, and are a sustainable choice, with one filter equalling 900 single-use bottles, according to the retailer. 


Where to browse more water filters?

Regardless of which filter you want, there are so many retailers with a range of choices for your home. Here are some of our recommended retailers to purchase from:

What to consider when buying a water filter?

When deciding on a water filter to suit your needs, there are things to consider before buying. Since water filters vary in function, size, and shape, you’ll need to make sure you get the most value out of it. These include: 

Type of water filter
Not all filters remove the same contaminants, so it’s important to know the right type of filter for your water source. For those living in hard-water or environmentally-challenged areas, you may need a more high-spec filter. Also, consider the size of the filter. Do you prefer a countertop model so your water is literally ‘on tap’? Or do you want a pitcher that is easy to use, portable, and can fit in your fridge? 

How often do you need to change the filter
Every filter has different replacement times to ensure the quality of water. Some pitcher cartridges need changing every four weeks, while others up to six months. Faucet-mounted filters are usually replaced every two to three months. 

Molly Cleary
Ecommerce Writer

Molly is the Ecommerce Writer for Livingetc and spends her time searching the internet for the next best thing for your home as an expert in lifestyle shopping and consumer trends. When she's not writing, she would most like to be swimming in the nearest sea/ocean or getting through her never-ending pile of novels.