10 Best Countertop Water Filters 2025 in the United States

The Bluevua RO100ROPOT-UV Reverse Osmosis System is an impressive countertop water filter designed for those seeking clean and safe drinking water. Its standout feature is the advanced 6-stage filtration system, which includes a UV light and a remineralization filter. This means it not only reduces harmful contaminants like lead and chlorine but also adds essential minerals back into the water, enhancing both taste and health benefits. The filter is certified for lead-free performance.

A major strength of this filter is its ease of use. There’s no need for complicated plumbing; just plug it in, and it’s ready to go. The glass carafe is a nice touch as it reduces the risk of plastic pollution, making it a more sustainable choice. Additionally, its power-saving features and impressive water-saving ratio of 2:1 help conserve both energy and water, which is appealing for environmentally-conscious users.

However, it does have some drawbacks. The maximum flow rate of 0.26 liters per minute may be slower than some users expect, especially if you need to fill large containers quickly. This could be a consideration for families or those who entertain frequently. Also, while the filter life of 1-2 years is advantageous, users must remember to monitor the filter status as forgetting to replace it can affect water quality.

Despite its weight of 23.15 pounds, which may make it less portable for some, the system’s design is attractive and functional for countertop use. The Bluevua RO100ROPOT-UV is a solid choice for individuals or families looking for effective, portable water filtration without the hassle of complex installation.

The Brita XL Water Filter Dispenser is a practical choice for anyone looking to improve their tap water quality without the hassle of complicated installations. With a large 27-cup capacity, this dispenser is ideal for families or individuals who want to have a steady supply of filtered water on hand. Its filtration technology effectively reduces odors and tastes from chlorine, along with contaminants like copper and mercury, enhancing the drinking experience.

One of the main strengths of this product is its ease of use. The Brita dispenser features a precision-pour spigot and an easy-locking lid, making it simple to dispense water. Additionally, the filter replacement indicator helps remind you when it’s time to change the filter, ensuring you always have the best tasting water. The product is also environmentally friendly, as it can help you reduce reliance on single-use plastic bottles, which is a significant plus for eco-conscious users.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. While the filter lasts about 40 gallons or two months, users need to remember to replace it regularly for optimal performance. The dispenser may not remove all possible contaminants, so if you have particularly high levels of certain impurities in your water, it could fall short of expectations. Also, its size, while convenient for storage, may take up a bit of counter or fridge space, which could be an issue in smaller kitchens.

The APEC ROES-50 Essence Series is a reverse osmosis water filter designed to deliver very clean and safe drinking water by removing up to 99% of common impurities like arsenic, lead, chlorine, fluoride, and over 1000 others. It uses a 5-stage filtration process that’s WQA certified, which means it meets high-quality standards for water treatment. This system is great if you want water that tastes much better than typical tap or bottled water and are concerned about heavy metals or other contaminants.

Its flow rate is quite slow, at about 0.03 gallons per minute, so it won’t produce water instantly. Also, this model is meant to be installed under the sink, so it’s not a simple countertop plug-and-play filter and may require some installation effort. The unit is a bit bulky, measuring 16 by 5.25 by 17.5 inches and weighing around 25 pounds, so make sure you have enough space. It includes a lead-free faucet and durable tubing, which adds to the safety and durability of the system.

If you have moderate to high total dissolved solids (TDS) in your water source, this system can handle up to 2000 ppm, which is quite robust. This filter represents a solid choice for those wanting thorough purification and who are okay with slower water output and a bit of installation work. It’s especially suitable for people with concerns about specific contaminants and who prefer a reliable, long-lasting system.