Best Countertop Water Filters 2021 – Top 10 Picks (Reviewed, Compared, Guide, FAQs)

You will agree with us when we say that bad-tasting water can be very frustrating and unhealthy to consume and that owning a countertop water filter can be very expensive. But are they?
Contrary to popular belief, owning and making use of filters will not break your bank account. Instead, these machines are probably the most accessible means to tap water improvement as they offer excellent, clean water anywhere within your home and even on the go.
Keeping this in mind, we offer the best filters, their design specification, as well as how beneficial they are to your health.

The top three countertop filters are part of a broad range of products available in the market today. In the following paragraphs, we delve into each of these products, as well as other equally exceptional filters that offer you the same benefits.

Best Countertop Water Filter – Top 10 Reviews for 2020

  1.   All-Around Best Countertop System – Apex Filter

Standing out from the crowd thanks to its robust construction, impressive quality, and lasting durability, the Apex water filter is known by many homeowners to remove up to 99% of all contaminants present in tap water. This means you’re given clean, healthy water whenever you please, in the comfort of your home or while on the road.

You’ll also find that this filter features a sleek, well-calculated design that can be kept on your countertop with ease for quick usage at all times. Other features possessed include its ease of installation and the lack of hardware needed during the set-up process. In addition, the easy filtration process is closely followed by its ability to add minerals, for healthier drinking water. So, you can now say goodbye to bacteria, chlorine, parasites, and fluoride whenever this filter is in operation.

Overall, this fantastic filter is incredibly affordable and comes with a 100% satisfaction money-back guarantee. Maintaining this water filter is very simple and doesn’t have to be done regularly. It is also straightforward to clean once the instruction manual is strictly adhered to.

Features of Apex Water Filter

1. Removes 99% of substances
2. Designed to sit right on the kitchen countertop conveniently
3. Cost-effective water filter
4. Easy do-it-yourself installation
5. 100 % satisfaction money-back guarantee

Durability, sustainability, low maintenance, and exceptional value are some of the few reasons why your home will be better off with the Apex Countertop Drinking Water filter.

Read More About Apex Countertop Water Filter Here

  2.   Best Odor-Removing Countertop Filter – Cleanwater4Less

Here you have another fantastic water filter unit released by a leading manufacturer of household equipment and tools. Behold, it is the Cleanwater4less Countertop Water Filter. Out of all filters, this unit is considered to be the most cost-efficient. You’ll certainly agree with us when we say that the value offered for your investment is imposing, which is why it comes highly recommended by us. This water filter is ideal for countertops of all sizes, and with its wide variety of colours, it will certainly blend effortlessly into your kitchen décor.

You’ll also find that this filter is exceptional in design, offering a large filtering capacity of up to 10,000 gallons. Certainly, this isn’t common in the filter industry, especially for home designed units and with such immense magnitude, you’ll make use of this filter for a long time before any maintenance is required. Even better is the fact that it works efficiently eliminating chlorine in tap water.

Overall, it is quick and straightforward to install and doesn’t require any special tools or expertise. Furthermore, it is not only very environmentally friendly (which means you’ll certainly reduce the amount of bottled water purchased) but it also removes most of the contaminants present in your water, such that you’re left with healthier, alkaline water for both you and your family.

Features of cleanwater4less Countertop Water Filtration System

1. Attaches right to standard faucets
2. Comes with pre-filter included
3. No replacement filters
4. 10,000 gallons of fresh water
5. 97% chlorine reduction

There’s no better water filter for your countertop than the Cleanwater4less screen. It’s unique in many adverse ways and can offer you the best version of potable water, better than any other model.

Read More About Cleanwater4less Water Filtration System Here

  3.   Best Budget Filter – Ecosoft Countertop Water Filter

Just like most people. You are probably after a budget-friendly product when concerning filters. Certainly, the one unit that offers you the best value for your pocket is the Ecosoft Countertop filter. You’ll agree with us when we say that this unit is sleek and unique in design. No doubt, it is made by people who are experts in their field, regarding the dynamics of water filtration. There’s nothing better than drinking healthy water, which goes through all the necessary cleansing steps for your safety.

In addition to cost-friendliness, the Ecosoft filter is regarded as a low maintenance water filtration system that can be used for up to six months before the need for maintenance. Think about it; six months translates loosely to over 1,500 gallons of water within your home or during your travels. What’s more, this filter can be placed anywhere within your home, it is simple on the outside, and very intricate on the inside. Even better is the fact that the Installation of such a fantastic filter comes easily, especially when all instructions are followed to a T. And although this filter might not be as active as others, it is equally great with performance and durability.

Overall, the European design of the Ecosoft water filter tells you more than needs to be said about its quality. No doubt, it is considered the most comfortable unit to install and also the best option to sit next to your kitchen sink. And with a 2-year warranty and a leak-proof build, we’re confident that this filter would cater to all your water filtration needs and then some.

Features of Ecosoft System

1. European manufactured filtration system
2. Filtered water dispensers come with faucet adapters, seal & ring for a leak-proof installation.
3. You get fresh water free of exotic taste.
4. A 2-year warranty is applied
5. Three months’ capacity

Yield brilliant results with the Ecosoft filter on your countertop. It comes in varying forms to suit your décor while removing all unwanted elements from your drinking water. Rest assured this countertop filter offers extra clean water whenever you please since it removes all dirt, debris, and harmful minerals.

Read In-depth Ecosoft Countertop Filter Review Here

  4.   Best Easy-to-Install Product – New Wave Enviro 10 Stage Plus Water Filter System

It’s a no brainer that many of us need to learn the importance of drinking safe water. And there’s no better way to achieve such a feat than via the use of the New Wave Enviro 10 Stage Water Filter System. Here we have a countertop filter that has been manufactured by a Colorado-based company that understands the importance of sustainability; thus, your demand for bottled water will be reduced, allowing you to save more money in the long run, whilst also reducing the number of plastic bottles strewn across your home.

You’ll certainly agree with us when we say that this is one superb unit that removes a significant amount of contaminants from your water before it touches your lips. On top of this, it features a 10-stage filtration process that says goodbye to all bacteria and contaminants, heavy metals, and even chlorine. So, rest assured your tap water will now be safe and clean for as long as you wish.

What’s more, if you are after a compact unit, this one offers a pre-installed system that the manufacturers have designed to reduce your packaging and storage space. With up to ten different filtration stages, it is safe to say that all water that passes through this countertop filter will never remain the same.

Features of New Wave Enviro 10 Stage Plus Water Filter System

1. 10 stage replacement filter
2. The cartridge is pre-installed
3. The round is easy to replace
4. You can help eliminate the number of plastic water bottles being used.
5. Enough to last one year for a family of four.

For active living and the best health support, we recommend the New Wave Enviro filter system, which is the best system for use in your home. This filtration system eradicates organic and inorganic arsenic, pesticides, mercury, chlorine, and herbicides, to keep you and your family safe.

  5.   Best Portable Filter – Home Master TMJRF2 Jr F2 Counter Top Water Filtration System

The Home Master Counter Top Filter system comes our way as another one of the most remarkable units out there as it comes with all the required features for optimum performance. This water filter deals with almost all contaminants present in your water – a single-use removes 93% of debris, chlorine, heavy metals, and much more contaminants from your water for safe consumption.

What’s more, you’ll certainly agree that installing and using this water filter is extremely easy and ideal. The simple construction allows for simple maintenance and higher efficiency. And to do away with all fluoride in your water, be sure to replace your filters more often – much more than the general rule of six months. As much as possible, replace your Home Master Filter after every three months to ensure your water remains free from fluoride.

Despite its small filter size, the Home Master filter is certainly one of the most highly rated filters out there, especially with sturdiness. Its compact nature means it’s perfect for smaller kitchens, no matter how tight. Even better – it can be packed and taken on trips as and when you please.

Features of Home Master TMJRF2 Jr F2

1. Three-stage filter
2. Removes up to 93 percent of chemicals
3. Efficient, space-saving design
4. Simple and easy installation
5. The portable – compact unit travels well

We absolutely love the design of this unit, in addition to the fact that it is a space saver. From an improved smell to better water quality and a great taste, the Home Master is thoroughly effective and genuinely a remarkable unit that is worth investing in.

  6.   Brondell H630 H2O+ Cypress Countertop System

Another spectacular water filtration system you can rely on is the Brondell Cypress Countertop. We love that out of all available options; this unit stands out from the crowd with its fantastic design and durable build. And we are sure you will agree that this is truly an impressive unit that has been carefully designed. This is all thanks to its professional touch by experts in the scientific field. Every screw and bend is backed by years of research such that you receive nothing short of safe and healthy water for drinking.

It features a three-stage nano trap technology system, known to deliver the highest level of quality; no doubt, such a system is infrequent, and can only be identified in many complex under-counter systems. We also love that the filter attaches easily to your faucet without causing any form of damage. What’s more, it comes with adapters that allow for a seamless connection at all times, without compromising the power of filtration offered.

Overall, the Cypress water filter is very elegant in design, with an ultra-slim profile that is both functional as it is ergonomic. This means you can control the dispensing of water with a simple push-button. Concerning safety, the filter has been certified after a series of tests by the WQA. This safety certification isn’t standard but assures that you are protected against all kinds of contaminants. Attach this filter to up to 99% of all faucet types, and receive clean, tasty water in under ten minutes.

Features of Brondell H630 H2O+ Cypress

1. Patented Nanotrap technology
2. Convenient faucet attachment
3. Elegant and slim profile countertop design
4. Ergonomic push-button control
5. Independent lab tested and certified

The three-stage filtration offered by the Cypress filter is unique and mind-blowing. You get value for your investment with such a fantastic unit in your kitchen, so grab one while you can!

  7.   iSpring CKC1C

Our next best water filter comes from another leading manufacturer of water filters and appliances. It is the iSpring water filter, which is a unique product put together by some of the best professionals out there. You’ll agree when we say that the design is simple; but on closer inspection, you’ll also notice that it has been intricately undertaken to provide nothing short of top-notch quality.

It also features a see-through housing system for close observation of the filtration process. You will also know the ideal time for a filter change, and this goes a long way to keep you and your family healthy. For sure, this is an ultra-safe unit that takes away 95% of all water contaminants for your safety. Say goodbye to all the silt, odours, sand, chlorine, and rust usually found in drinking water because this top product has passed a series of tests to ensure that it meets all safety standards.

Additionally, Installing your iSpring filter shouldn’t be complicated or time-consuming as this unit is pretty straightforward also very portable for those who love to move around. You can also make use of it in all small spaces, or place it on your countertop for a flawless, natural blend with the theme of your kitchen. Even better is the fact that it comes with a 30-day guarantee with every purchase, as well as the lifetime technical support from the company’s headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia.

Features of iSpring CKC1C Countertop

1. Clear housing with a carbon
2. Standard 5-micron carbon block cartridge
3. Filter meets NSF/ANSI Standards.
4. Sleek and efficient design
5. Perfect for small spaces.

Not only for providing clean water, but also being a safe, economical and very durable unit, the iSpring countertop filter certainly makes a great addition to your kitchen as suitable for both large and small spaces.

  8.   Big Berkey Countertop System with 2 Black Berkey Elements and 2 Fluoride Filters

You’ll thank us for discovering this Big Berkey Countertop Water Filter System. It is one of many that comes with a unique stainless steel housing, meant to increase the durability of your filter, whilst also ensuring that it is durable in the long run. It features two large filters for extended use and two fluoride elements that thoroughly cleans your water. And when assembled, it certainly remains sturdy throughout.

In addition, the lifespan of a single filter is capped at 3,000 gallons, which will exceed the typical six-month filter lifespan. And with two filters available, this means you have up to 6,000 gallons at your disposal. No doubt, this is a modern and highly versatile unit ideally designed for use both at home and outdoors. This means you can treat water from remote lakes, stagnant ponds, and even streams via the Big Berkey filter system.

The best part is that it doesn’t remove the beneficial minerals needed by your body, only those that are toxic for your system. A single hour of using this water filter offers seven gallons of pure, tasty water that can be drunk or used for washing and cooking.

Features of Big Berkey Filter

1. Stainless steel housing
2. Two fluoride filters
3. Holds 2.25 gallons of purified water
4. Designed for 4 to 16 people
5. The lifespan of 3,000 gallons

There are many uses of filtered water, and the Big Berkey is here to offer as many usage options as possible. You will get double value at a low cost, and that is most probably the best bargain you will ever encounter in the department of water filters.

  9.   AlcaPure Zero Installation Purifier Reverse Osmosis Countertop Filter with Patented High Capacity 4 Stage Technology

Meet the AlcaPure Zero Purifier, a superb water purifying machine made for your comfort. You’ll certainly acknowledge the strength and quality of this unit, and much admire the manufacturers for launching it. You’ll also notice that Alcapure filter uses a 4 stage filtration technology that ensures that your water remains in an alkaline state. On top of this, it also uses the reverse osmosis procedure to keep tap water clean and free from debris or heavy metals. And with its patented technology, we’re confident that you and your family would greatly benefit from this fantastic tool.

Alcapure also understands your needs when it comes to style and design. And as they know what’s needed in design to enhance performance, every item they launch displays nothing short of quality. What’s more, its sleek, stylish, and modern outlook that can blend into all kitchen themes flawlessly for optimum beautification.

All in all, this filter is perfect for condos, apartments, and RVs. And once purchased, you’re free to start operating your screen as it requires no assembling or installation; neither does it demand any dirty hoes or diverter valves. You’ll certainly love this AlcaPure filter as it is energy efficient which helps to save money in the long run.

Features of AlcaPure Purifier

1. Modern, stylish, compact design
2. Perfect for apartments, condos & RV’s
3. No side clearance is required
4. no assembly required
5. Removes up to 99% of all contaminants

Use this simple water filter for all your water purification needs and say goodbye to heavy metals and other water contaminants that are detrimental to your health. The AlcaPure water purifier is everything you need for affordable access to clean drinking water.

  10.   Aquasana Countertop Drinking Water Filter System

All in all, we know how much clean water means to you, which is why we’re recommending this exclusive product. This ‘Healthiest Gadget’, according to Health Magazine, can easily be placed on your kitchen counter for quick access to clean water, leaving you with more than enough space for other activities.

No doubt, this another great purification unit designed to show you what clean water should taste like. This is a genuinely exceptional unit put together for the safety of every end-user; thus, it features a rigid filtration system resulting in pure, clean alkaline water with a taste that you can’t resist.

Not only has it been NSF certified to bring you the highest level of safety, useful minerals such as potassium, calcium, and magnesium, are retained water for maximum health benefits, whilst also keeping your water clean and crisp over time. Overall, this water filter fits all standard faucets with ease, making it a very versatile unit to own.

Features Aquasana Countertop Drinking Water Filter System

1. NSF certified
2. No wastewater or harmful contaminants
3. Retains the healthy minerals
4. No permanent installation required
5. Convenient, portable package

Manufacturers of this water purifier offer you nothing short of top quality, with their new fantastic model. If you ever feel a strong desire for clean water, think about the Aquasana filter, and all the benefits it promises to offer your entire household.

Countertop Water Filters – Buyers’ Guide

Why Do I need a Countertop Filter?

There are many reasons your household needs a countertop water filtration system. No doubt, these benefits surpass your physical health; thus, we’ve highlighted some of them below for a better understanding.

• Portability: It can be used on the go, and this ensures that you have healthy water even while travelling. Many models are designed as sink-tops or gravity-fed units; thus, it’s easy to assemble and disassemble whenever you please.
• Impermanence: Filters do not change your existing plumbing situation, mainly because they’re not connected to your faucet. This means you’re required to have a lifetime commitment with any filter.
• Affordability: As compared to other filtration methods, having a this filter is less expensive.
• Clean water: The results offered by these units are excellent. Despite their simplicity and ease, countertop filters remove a wide range of contaminants from your water, keeping you and your family safe and healthy.

How Do Countertop Filters Work?

The process of operation utilised by countertop filters isn’t as simple as you might presume. It contains some amount of complexities, but the entire filtration process remains the same for all models. There are three main steps, with some models including other optional steps for intense filtration.

• Mechanical Filtration

This is the filtration process characterised by small pores. Your tap water is pushed through this filter to remove all rust, sediments, impurities and other contaminants within your pool.

• Water Softening

This is the second step of filtration, and it involves the use of ion-exchange resins, which remove all magnesium and calcium in the water. The removal process is done to soften the water while also removing all heavy metals and toxins.

• Activated Carbon Filtration

This third step is vital, as it’s where activated carbon is used to remove all organic contaminants in the water. These contaminants include disinfectants, herbicides, chlorine, and many more. The other bonus process that some models undertake may include alkalisation, which will ensure that your water is given the proper ph for consumption.

Additionally, there is the KDF Filtration, which is an extra filtration process undertaken with special chemicals and substances, as well as silver Filter utilisation, and remineralisation, where all beneficial minerals such as calcium and magnesium are prevented from removal or damage. These optional steps are usually identified in modern filter models; thus, they tend to be bulkier and more expensive.

What Are Some Factors to Consider when Purchasing a Countertop Water Filter?

There are many water filters available in the market today, thus making a choice may become a huge struggle for many. In this buying guide, we discuss the necessary features you need to consider before purchasing a specific model of the water filter.

• Product Design

Any water filter you opt for goes a long way to determine the outlook of your kitchen. Consider the kitchen décor when choosing a filter model, and also take a look at the various types of filters. We have countertop units, under-sink filters, and many more. The best solution is a sleek and unobstructed fixture that blends well with your kitchen’ s theme.

• Intended application

The style of filter you purchase primarily depends on how you intend to use your countertop filter. You might prefer a countertop system if you have a limited amount of space. What’s more, water distillers are expensive filtration options if you have a few extra bucks to splurge. They’re the ideal unit for anyone seeking a high degree of purity in your water.

• Maintenance

There are different degrees of support for all the different kinds of filters. To ensure that the casing of ceramic filters stays bacteriostatic, they require regular cleaning. You need to be mindful of your filter’s flow, and the quality of your pre-filtered water.

• Durability and future value

Consider the frequency of water filters, as well as the cost involved, when budgeting for your water system. For countertop filters, regular filter changes are significant, as this determines their level of efficacy.

How Do I Install a Countertop Water Filter?

Installing a countertop water filter isn’t complicated. For some installations, you might need an adjustable wrench. Other models, however, will demand that you use small plastic wrenches instead.

• Place your water filter close to your faucet such that they can be connected without any interference.
• Take off the faucet’s accelerator.
• Connect the filter to the external thread, if any, and then screw in your screen using a washer.
• The final step is the attach the diverter valve to your faucet to ensure that water flows out of the faucet directly.

How Do I Test if my Countertop Water Filter is Working Properly?

To test your countertop water filter, try rotating the diverter valve. If the water flows out of the water filter, then it’s been installed correctly and will work properly.

Countertop Filters – FAQ

What’s the Best Way to Remove a Cartridge

When removing a water filter cartridge, the process is very similar to the cleaning of your screen. It doesn’t take a lot of time and also doesn’t require extra tools.  Make use of an extra bucket, filled with half a gallon of water. Slowly, remove the water filter from your purification system and place it in your second bucket.

Can I Install my Water Filter Upside Down?

The best thing about water filters is that the installation can be done in any direction. The screen can be mounted upside down, sideways, and in any other course of your choice. The only difference, however, lies in the cartridges, which are different for both upside-down or sideways units. When the wrong one is used, the result can be clumsy and messy.

How Long Does It Normally Last?

The general lifespan of a water filter is six months. That notwithstanding, these filters need to be replaced regularly. Installing new filters is very easy, and they don’t consume a lot of your time. The procedure to be followed is offered by manufacturers on their packaging; thus, you need to read through all instructions offered thoroughly.

How Often Do I Need to Clean it?

Every filter needs to be replaced after it cleaned up to 1,500 gallons of water. This is equivalent to approximately six months of usage for a family of four. Also, cleaning the filter largely depends on the source of your pre-filtered water. If it is very dirty and contaminated, you might need to change the filters often.

How Do I Clean and Maintain my Filter?

You need to make us of a separate bucket filled halfway with water. The water filter is then placed in this bucket for up to five minutes and then rinsed. You can then reinstall the screen into your system for another round of usage.

Does It Remove Chlorine from Tap Water?

A typical water filter model cannot remove chlorine from your water. This activity will require special equipment and procedures. Chlorine will be removed from your water only when your filter is carbon or multi-staged unit.

Is Filtered Water a Healthier Option for me than Bottled Water?

Bottled water is safe and healthy but mighty expensive for many. Using a water filter in your home gives you the same level of purity at a reduced price. In some cases, bottled water may not be as safe as you think it should be.

Can I Judge by Water Taste and Water Flow Rate if my Filter Needs to be Cleaned?

Taste and water flow rate are not the best ways to determine when your filter needs to be changed. This is because many carbon filers still offer tasty water long after the purification process is completed. The best way to know when to change a filter is by reading the instruction manual.

How Big System Do I Need?

You don’t need an excessive countertop to fit your water filter. This is because most models are compact in design, and they don’t need a lot of space to operate. Modern systems can fit beautifully around your sink without blocking other items.

Can I Connect my Filter to More than One Faucet?

One filter should be connected to a single faucet. The advantage of having these units is that they can be disassembled, moved, and installed in any location as and when you please. if you require filtered water from all your faucets, you might have to purchase more filters or better still, choose a more advanced filtration system. There are massive filters that allow you to connect all faucets within your home at the same time.

Final Verdict

Certainly, you can transform the water you drink with a countertop water filter for your home. This is the most cost-effective method available for you and also the most environmentally friendly. There are many models of filters in existence; thus, you need to have enough knowledge of how each one works. We propose the Apex Countertop Water Filter since it’s the most famous and highly ranked in today’s market. For cost-efficiency, we recommend the Cleanwater4less filter, while the Ecosoft is also a very great option for homes with limited counter space. Enjoy alkaline water the right way, and say goodbye to dirt and debris with ease.