Looking for the best water filter for your home? After reviewing dozens of products and analyzing lab test results, we’ve ranked the top 10 water filters you can buy today—based not on price, but on performance.

This guide is divided into three key categories to help you find the right filter for your needs:

• Pitcher Filters – Convenient and affordable for everyday use.
  
  
• Countertop Reverse Osmosis Machines – High-powered, plug-and-play systems.
  
  
• Under Sink Filters – Sleek, permanent solutions with serious filtration power.
  
  

Every filter on this list was evaluated for contaminant removal, flow rate, ease of use, and overall water quality. If you care about what’s in your water, this is the only list you need.

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Pitcher Filters: Convenient Filtration for Everyday Use

Pitcher filters are one of the easiest and most affordable ways to start improving your water quality. They require no installation, fit neatly in your fridge, and are ideal for renters or anyone on the go. But while most people default to well-known brands like Brita, the truth is that not all pitcher filters are created equal.

We reviewed lab reports and third-party testing for the most popular water filter pitchers to see which ones actually deliver on their promises. Our rankings below focus on contaminant removal, filter lifespan, ease of use, and overall value—so you can confidently choose the best option for your home.

Pitcher 1: Clearly Filtered

The first pitcher we recommend is the Clearly Filtered Water Pitcher, and for good reason — it’s in a class of its own. Backed by independent lab testing, this pitcher removes a staggering 99.26% of over 365 contaminants, including fluoride, lead, PFAS, pesticides, and pharmaceuticals.

While most pitchers prioritize convenience over performance, Clearly Filtered delivers both. If you’re looking for the highest level of contaminant removal without installing a full filtration system, this is hands-down the best option on the market.

Pitcher 2: Epic Pure Water Filter Pitcher 

Don’t let the price tag fool you — the Epic Pure Pitcher delivers serious filtration power. According to independent lab testing, it removed 98.41% of all tested contaminants, putting it just behind Clearly Filtered in terms of performance.

What makes this pitcher stand out is the balance of affordability, American-made quality, and robust contaminant removal — including chlorine, fluoride, lead, microplastics, and even trace pharmaceuticals. It’s a great pick for families or individuals who want top-tier water without breaking the bank.

Pitcher 3: Zero Water Filter Pitcher 

The ZeroWater Pitcher consistently ranks high for one key reason: it’s one of the few pitchers that actually uses a 5-stage ion exchange system, similar to what you’d find in more advanced filtration systems. In our review of lab results, it removed 98.35% of all tested contaminants, making it a strong contender among high-performance pitchers.

What really sets ZeroWater apart is its ability to bring total dissolved solids (TDS) down to zero, something most other pitchers can’t do. It’s especially effective at removing heavy metals like lead, chromium, and mercury, and even comes with a built-in TDS meter so you can test your water quality in real-time.

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Counter Top Reverse Osmosis Machines

If water pitchers are the entry-level option, countertop reverse osmosis (RO) systems are in a league of their own. While they come with a higher price tag, they deliver superior contaminant removal, often rivaling or exceeding under-sink systems — all without the need for permanent installation. These units are ideal for people who want serious filtration power with plug-and-play convenience.Counter Top Reverse Osmosis Machines

1. Philips Countertop Reverse Osmosis System

The first countertop RO system we recommend is the Philips Countertop Reverse Osmosis System — a sleek, plug-and-play unit that delivers big results. In third-party lab tests, it removed an impressive 99.26% of all tested contaminants, putting it on par with some of the best under-sink systems.

What sets it apart is the combination of high-performance filtration and effortless setup — no plumbing, no drilling, just clean, great-tasting water straight from your countertop. It’s perfect for apartments, rentals, or anyone who wants serious water purification without the hassle.

2. Sans Countertop Reverse Osmosis System

Next up is the Sans Countertop Reverse Osmosis System, a compact and modern unit that combines clean aesthetics with serious filtration power. Lab testing shows it removes 98.54% of all tested contaminants, making it one of the most effective countertop systems available.

Designed for simplicity and portability, Sans requires no installation — just plug it in, fill the tank, and enjoy crystal-clear, great-tasting water. It’s an excellent option for anyone who values both performance and a minimalist footprint in their kitchen.

3. Bluevua Countertop Reverse Osmosis System

The third countertop RO system we recommend is the Bluevua Countertop Reverse Osmosis Machine. In independent lab testing, it removed 97.59% of all tested contaminants, making it a solid choice for those who want reliable filtration at a more budget-friendly price point.

What makes Bluevua stand out is its built-in UV sterilizer, which adds an extra layer of protection by neutralizing bacteria and viruses — something few countertop units offer. With its large water tank, intuitive controls, and no-installation setup, it’s a great entry point into high-quality reverse osmosis without committing to a permanent system.

4. AquaTru Carafe

The AquaTru Carafe is a unique countertop reverse osmosis system that blends style, sustainability, and solid performance. It removed 96.36% of all tested contaminants in lab reports — slightly behind the top performers, but still highly effective for most households.

What sets this unit apart is its borosilicate glass carafe, a premium feature for those who want to avoid plastic. It’s compact, quiet, and easy to use, making it ideal for small kitchens, apartments, or anyone looking for clean water in a beautifully designed package.

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Under-Sink Systems: The Gold Standard for Permanent Filtration

For renters or those frequently on the move, under-sink systems might not be the go-to option — but if you’re ready to commit to powerful, long-term water filtration, these systems are hard to beat. Under-sink reverse osmosis (RO) filters are considered the gold standard, delivering some of the highest contaminant removal rates available.

If you’re serious about clean water at the tap, these are the top 3 under-sink RO systems worth installing in your home.

1. Cleary Filtered 3-Stage Under Sink System

The first under-sink system we recommend is the Clearly Filtered 3-Stage System, and it’s one of the most effective filtration solutions you can install at home. In independent lab tests, it removed an outstanding 99.09% of all tested contaminants, including PFAS, chlorine, fluoride, heavy metals, and hundreds more.

This system uses three advanced filtration stages, doesn’t require a separate faucet, and is easy to install with basic tools. If you’re looking for under-sink filtration that’s both powerful and low-maintenance, this is a top-tier option that delivers serious peace of mind every time you turn on the tap.

2. Waterdrop G3 Reverse Osmosis System

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Next on our list is the Waterdrop G3 Under-Sink Reverse Osmosis System, a modern, tankless design that combines sleek engineering with powerful performance. Lab results show it removes 98.36% of all tested contaminants, including lead, chlorine, fluoride, and other common pollutants.

The G3 stands out for its smart features — including a real-time TDS display, filter life indicators, and ultra-fast flow rate. Plus, its tankless design means it takes up less space under your sink and produces water on demand without storing it. If you’re looking for a tech-savvy, high-performance RO system that’s easy to maintain, Waterdrop is an excellent choice.

3. Aquasana SmartFlow Reverse Osmosis System

The third under-sink system we recommend is the Aquasana SmartFlow RO System, which offers a solid balance of performance, efficiency, and space-saving design. In lab tests, it removed 98.32% of all tested contaminants, including chlorine, fluoride, lead, and other heavy metals.

What makes this system stand out is its compact footprint, making it a great choice for tighter cabinet spaces. It also features Claryum® technology, which re-mineralizes your water after filtration — giving it a more natural taste and added health benefits. If you’re looking for clean, mineral-balanced water from a system that’s easy to live with, the SmartFlow is a reliable pick.

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