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HomeWater Filtration SystemsThe 5 Best Water Filter Pitchers, According to Our Testing
HomeWater Filtration SystemsThe 5 Best Water Filter Pitchers, According to Our Testing
The 5 Best Water Filter Pitchers, According to Our Testing
The 5 Best Water Filter Pitchers, According to Our Testing
updated: April 14, 2024
updated: July 5, 2024
🤝 Our content is written by humans, not AI robots. Learn More
🤝 Our content is written by humans, not AI robots. Learn More
Brian Campbell
Brian Campbell
Brian Campbell - President & CEO, CWS, CWR View all posts
Brian Campbell
The best water filter pitchers are affordable, portable, and reduce dozens of contaminants using gravity-fed water filtration.
The best water filter pitchers are affordable, portable, and reduce dozens of contaminants using gravity-fed water filtration.


We use our own evidence-based testing to review and compare water filters.
We use our own evidence-based testing to review and compare water filters.


I’ve personally tested all the water filters on this list, leveraging my experience as a WQA Certified Water Specialist (CWS) and Certified Water Treatment Representative (CWR) to review each product as both an expert and a customer.
I’ve personally tested all the water filters on this list, leveraging my experience as a WQA Certified Water Specialist (CWS) and Certified Water Treatment Representative (CWR) to review each product as both an expert and a customer.


Epic Pure Water Filter Pitcher
Epic Pure Water Filter Pitcher
Overall Score: 8.90
Overall Score: 8.90
Epic Pure Pitcher
Epic Pure Pitcher


Received the highest score for contaminant reduction
Received the highest score for contaminant reduction
Best value for money
Best value for money
Easy to set up, no filter priming needed
Easy to set up, no filter priming needed
Affordable ongoing cost
Affordable ongoing cost
View at epicwaterfilters.com
View at epicwaterfilters.com
View on Amazon
View on Amazon
View at Walmart
View at Walmart
Clearly Filtered Water Pitcher (400x400)
Clearly Filtered Water Pitcher (400x400)
Overall Score: 8.78
Overall Score: 8.78
Clearly Filtered Water Pitcher
Clearly Filtered Water Pitcher


Reduced the most contaminants in our lab tests
Reduced the most contaminants in our lab tests
Highest quality design materials
Highest quality design materials
Certified for performance & materials safety
Certified for performance & materials safety
Reduced 100% fluoride
Reduced 100% fluoride
View at clearlyfiltered.com
View at clearlyfiltered.com
View on Amazon
View on Amazon
ZeroWater Ready-Pour Pitcher
ZeroWater Ready-Pour Pitcher
Overall Score: 8.62
Overall Score: 8.62
ZeroWater Ready-Pour Pitcher
ZeroWater Ready-Pour Pitcher


Great contaminant reduction performance on the whole
Great contaminant reduction performance on the whole
Certified to reduce more contaminants
Certified to reduce more contaminants
Easy filter lifespan tracking with TDS meter
Easy filter lifespan tracking with TDS meter
Fastest and easiest filter setup
Fastest and easiest filter setup
View at zerowater.com
View at zerowater.com
View on Amazon
View on Amazon
View at Walmart
View at Walmart
Table of Contents [show]
Table of Contents [show]


Our Testing & Selection Process
Our Testing & Selection Process
How We Test & Score
How We Test u0026amp; Score
How We Choose the Winners
How We Choose the Winners
Best Water Filter Pitcher in 2024 (8 Brands Tested, Rated & Ranked BEST to WORST)
Best Water Filter Pitcher in 2024 (8 Brands Tested, Rated & Ranked BEST to WORST)
The 5 Best Water Filter Pitchers
The 5 Best Water Filter Pitchers
Product Epic Nano Water Filter Pitcher
Product Epic Nano Water Filter Pitcher
Epic Pure Clearly Filtered Water Pitcher
Epic Pure Clearly Filtered Water Pitcher
Clearly Filtered
Clearly Filtered
ZeroWater Ready-Pour Pitcher
ZeroWater Ready-Pour Pitcher
ZeroWater Ready-Pour r Santevia MINA Pitcher
ZeroWater Ready-Pour r Santevia MINA Pitcher
Santevia MINA LARQ Pure Vis Advanced Pitcher
Santevia MINA LARQ Pure Vis Advanced Pitcher
LARQ Pure-Vis Advanced
LARQ Pure-Vis Advanced

Product

Epic Nano Water Filter Pitcher

Epic Pure

Clearly Filtered Water Pitcher

Clearly Filtered

ZeroWater Ready-Pour Pitcher
ZeroWater Ready-Pour r
Santevia MINA Pitcher
Santevia MINA
LARQ Pure Vis Advanced Pitcher
LARQ Pure-Vis Advanced
Score 8.90 8.78 8.62 8.45 8.21
Score 8.90 8.78 8.62 8.45 8.21
Price $70.00 $90.00 $39.99 $49.99 $139.00
Price $70.00 $90.00 $39.99 $49.99 $139.00
Certifications Not certified NSF/ANSI 42 & 53 NSF/ANSI 42 & 53 Not certified Not certified
Certifications Not certified NSF/ANSI 42 & 53 NSF/ANSI 42 & 53 Not certified Not certified
Filter Capacity 150 gallons 100 gallons
Filter Capacity 150 gallons 100 gallons
25 gallons 80 gallons 60 gallons
25 gallons 80 gallons 60 gallons
Cost per Gallon $0.31 $0.55 $0.70 $0.25 $0.54
Cost per Gallon $0.31 $0.55 $0.70 $0.25 $0.54
Warranty Lifetime 1 year Vessels 90 days, filters 30 days 90 days 1 year
Warranty Lifetime 1 year Vessels 90 days, filters 30 days 90 days 1 year
Read Review Epic Pure review Clearly Filtered review ZeroWater review Santevia MINA review LARQ Pure-Vis Advanced review
Read Review Epic Pure review Clearly Filtered review ZeroWater review Santevia MINA review LARQ Pure-Vis Advanced review
Epic Pure Pitcher
Epic Pure Pitcher
Epic Pure Water Filter Pitcher
Epic Pure Water Filter Pitcher
The Epic Pure Pitcher uses a solid carbon block filter that blends three activated carbon media to reduce dozens of common drinking water contaminants. It got the best contaminant score out of all the water filter pitchers we tested, and we were pleased with its quick and easy setup and maintenance processes.
The Epic Pure Pitcher uses a solid carbon block filter that blends three activated carbon media to reduce dozens of common drinking water contaminants. It got the best contaminant score out of all the water filter pitchers we tested, and we were pleased with its quick and easy setup and maintenance processes.


Overall Score: 8.90
Overall Score: 8.90
How We Test & Score
How We Test & Score
9.00 Contaminant Reduction
9.00 Contaminant Reduction
6.00 Design
6.00 Design
9.50 Maintenance
9.50 Maintenance
10.00 Filtration Rate
10.00 Filtration Rate
9.50 Setup
9.50 Setup
8.95 Company
8.95 Company
Best For
Best For
Reduced all contaminants to below the HGL benchmark
Reduced all contaminants to below the HGL benchmark
Contaminant reduction score wasn’t compromised by the introduction of unwanted impurities
Contaminant reduction score wasn’t compromised by the introduction of unwanted impurities
Best value for money
Best value for money
Option to upgrade to dispenser with a larger water-holding capacity
Option to upgrade to dispenser with a larger water-holding capacity
Super easy setup with no filter priming required
Super easy setup with no filter priming required
Product Specs
Product Specs
Price $70.00
Price $70.00
Contaminants Reduced 200+
Contaminants Reduced 200+
Certifications Not certified
Certifications Not certified
Process Solid Activated Carbon Block
Process Solid Activated Carbon Block
Filter Capacity 150 gallons
Filter Capacity 150 gallons
Annual Cost ~$150
Annual Cost ~$150
Warranty Lifetime
Warranty Lifetime
Why It’s Best
Why It’s Best
The Epic Pure Pitcher is the best overall water filter pitcher because it secured the best score for contaminant reduction.
The Epic Pure Pitcher is the best overall water filter pitcher because it secured the best score for contaminant reduction.


In our testing, it reduced all health-related contaminants in our water to below the testing lab’s Health Guideline Levels (HGLs), and, unlike with some of the other pitchers we tested, no unwanted impurities appeared post-filtration.
In our testing, it reduced all health-related contaminants in our water to below the testing lab’s Health Guideline Levels (HGLs), and, unlike with some of the other pitchers we tested, no unwanted impurities appeared post-filtration.


Plus, it’s one of the best-value water filter pitchers we tested, costing less than $70 upfront and boasting a super affordable ongoing cost.
Plus, it’s one of the best-value water filter pitchers we tested, costing less than $70 upfront and boasting a super affordable ongoing cost.


Good to Know: Epic sells two water filter pitchers: the Epic Pure and the Epic Nano. The Epic Pure (which we’re reviewing here) is intended for filtering city tap water, while the Epic Nano filter is designed for untreated surface or well water.
Good to Know: Epic sells two water filter pitchers: the Epic Pure and the Epic Nano. The Epic Pure (which we’re reviewing here) is intended for filtering city tap water, while the Epic Nano filter is designed for untreated surface or well water.
View at epicwaterfilters.com
View at epicwaterfilters.com
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View on Amazon
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View at Walmart
Discount: Get 20% off – Click Here for Code
Discount: Get 20% off – Click Here for Code
Epic Pure Performance
Epic Pure Performance
The Epic Pure scored a 9.30 for reducing health-related contaminants in our water. Our test results showed that the filter reduced 100% uranium, copper, and phosphorous, as well as 92% sulfate, 57% molybdenum, 41% barium, 27% fluoride, and 20% nitrate.
The Epic Pure scored a 9.30 for reducing health-related contaminants in our water. Our test results showed that the filter reduced 100% uranium, copper, and phosphorous, as well as 92% sulfate, 57% molybdenum, 41% barium, 27% fluoride, and 20% nitrate.



Made with Flourish
Made with Flourish

Made with Flourish
Made with Flourish
The system also reduced 100% chlorine in our water, so it scored a 9.90 for improving our water’s aesthetics.
The system also reduced 100% chlorine in our water, so it scored a 9.90 for improving our water’s aesthetics.


Our only disappointment was that the filter isn’t performance certified, which reduced its score slightly.
Our only disappointment was that the filter isn’t performance certified, which reduced its score slightly.


The Epic Pure also impressed us with its setup and maintenance requirements – we awarded it a score of 9.50 for both categories. Setup was easy because the filter didn’t need priming; we just washed and assembled the pitcher and reservoir, then filtered and discarded the first two pitchers of water.
The Epic Pure also impressed us with its setup and maintenance requirements – we awarded it a score of 9.50 for both categories. Setup was easy because the filter didn’t need priming; we just washed and assembled the pitcher and reservoir, then filtered and discarded the first two pitchers of water.


We calculated the pitcher’s ongoing maintenance cost as $0.31/ gallon, meaning that we’d spend half as much as some of the other top-performing pitchers we tested. Replacing the filter was easy, and the 150-gallon filter capacity is one of the best we’ve seen. The pitcher has an LED countdown timer that helped us to know when to buy new filters.
We calculated the pitcher’s ongoing maintenance cost as $0.31/ gallon, meaning that we’d spend half as much as some of the other top-performing pitchers we tested. Replacing the filter was easy, and the 150-gallon filter capacity is one of the best we’ve seen. The pitcher has an LED countdown timer that helped us to know when to buy new filters.


We think the Epic Pure is the best water filter pitcher for folks who want an all-rounder that can effectively reduce a range of contaminants, even though not all contaminants were completely eliminated. Anyone who wants a filter that’s affordable and easy to set up and maintain should also be pleased with the Epic Pure pitcher.
We think the Epic Pure is the best water filter pitcher for folks who want an all-rounder that can effectively reduce a range of contaminants, even though not all contaminants were completely eliminated. Anyone who wants a filter that’s affordable and easy to set up and maintain should also be pleased with the Epic Pure pitcher.


Criteria Results
Criteria Results
Overall Score 8.90
Overall Score 8.90
Health Related Contaminants 9.30
Health Related Contaminants 9.30
Aesthetic Related Contaminants 9.90
Aesthetic Related Contaminants 9.90
Performance Certification Not Certified
Performance Certification Not Certified
Filtration Rate 2.23 GPH
Filtration Rate 2.23 GPH
Component Quality Unsatisfactory
Component Quality Unsatisfactory
Component Certification Not Certified
Component Certification Not Certified
Setup Outstanding
Setup Outstanding
Servicing Requirements Outstanding
Servicing Requirements Outstanding
Costs $0.31/ gallon
Costs $0.31/ gallon
Warranty Length Lifetime
Warranty Length Lifetime
Shipping Free shipping for the Clean Water Club only
Shipping Free shipping for the Clean Water Club only
Returns Lifetime
Returns Lifetime
Clearly Filtered Pitcher
Clearly Filtered Pitcher
Clearly Filtered water pitcher (400x400)
Clearly Filtered water pitcher (400x400)
The Clearly Filtered Water Pitcher reduced more contaminants than most other water filter pitchers we’ve tested, and it has an advantage over the Epic Pure pitcher: a WQA performance certification for chlorine and PFOA/PFOS reduction.
The Clearly Filtered Water Pitcher reduced more contaminants than most other water filter pitchers we’ve tested, and it has an advantage over the Epic Pure pitcher: a WQA performance certification for chlorine and PFOA/PFOS reduction.


Overall Score: 8.78
Overall Score: 8.78
How We Test & Score
How We Test & Score
8.24 Contaminant Reduction
8.24 Contaminant Reduction
9.70 Design
9.70 Design
8.75 Maintenance
8.75 Maintenance
10.00 Filtration Rate
10.00 Filtration Rate
9.50 Setup
9.50 Setup
9.00 Company
9.00 Company
Best For
Best For
Thorough water filtration
Thorough water filtration
WQA performance certified
WQA performance certified
Sturdy, durable design
Sturdy, durable design
Long 100-gallon filter life
Long 100-gallon filter life
Roomy 10-cup capacity
Roomy 10-cup capacity
Product Specs
Product Specs
Price $90.00
Price $90.00
Contaminants Reduced 350+
Contaminants Reduced 350+
Certifications NSF/ANSI 42 & 53
Certifications NSF/ANSI 42 & 53
Process Coconut Carbon Block
Process Coconut Carbon Block
Filter Capacity 100 gallons
Filter Capacity 100 gallons
Annual Cost ~$150
Annual Cost ~$150
Warranty 1 year
Warranty 1 year
What We Thought
What We Thought
The Clearly Filtered Water Pitcher is the water filter pitcher that we recommend for folks who want a system with a great overall contaminant reduction performance.
The Clearly Filtered Water Pitcher is the water filter pitcher that we recommend for folks who want a system with a great overall contaminant reduction performance.


It offered a greater contaminant reduction percentage than most similar systems in our testing, and we also noted that the pitcher materials felt sturdier and thicker than other pitchers, which felt flimsier and thinner in comparison.
It offered a greater contaminant reduction percentage than most similar systems in our testing, and we also noted that the pitcher materials felt sturdier and thicker than other pitchers, which felt flimsier and thinner in comparison.


Setup was also really easy for the Clearly Filtered pitcher. Rather than having to filter and discard several batches of water (which is time-consuming), we primed the filter using the included priming bag, which took less than 10 minutes.
Setup was also really easy for the Clearly Filtered pitcher. Rather than having to filter and discard several batches of water (which is time-consuming), we primed the filter using the included priming bag, which took less than 10 minutes.


View at clearlyfiltered.com
View at clearlyfiltered.com
View on Amazon
View on Amazon
Discount: Get 10% off – Click Here for Code
Discount: Get 10% off – Click Here for Code
Clearly Filtered Performance
Clearly Filtered Performance
We awarded the Clearly Filtered Pitcher a score of 8.24 for overall contaminant reduction. It did better than the Epic Pure at reducing 100% fluoride, and its 100% uranium, chlorine, and copper reduction matched Epic’s results.
We awarded the Clearly Filtered Pitcher a score of 8.24 for overall contaminant reduction. It did better than the Epic Pure at reducing 100% fluoride, and its 100% uranium, chlorine, and copper reduction matched Epic’s results.



Made with Flourish
Made with Flourish
The CF pitcher also reduced 86% barium, 67% strontium, and 53% molybdenum. But its score was affected by the presence of 0.0054 PPM of cobalt in our filtered water (it hadn’t been detected pre-filtration).
The CF pitcher also reduced 86% barium, 67% strontium, and 53% molybdenum. But its score was affected by the presence of 0.0054 PPM of cobalt in our filtered water (it hadn’t been detected pre-filtration).



Made with Flourish
Made with Flourish
There were two standout performance features that gave Clearly Filtered the edge over Epic: its WQA performance certifications and its high-quality plastic design.
There were two standout performance features that gave Clearly Filtered the edge over Epic: its WQA performance certifications and its high-quality plastic design.


The pitcher has been certified (to NSF Standards 42 and 53) to reduce 3 out of the 365+ contaminants it’s claimed to reduce, so it’s not the most impressive proof of performance that we’ve seen, but it’s still more reassuring than nothing.
The pitcher has been certified (to NSF Standards 42 and 53) to reduce 3 out of the 365+ contaminants it’s claimed to reduce, so it’s not the most impressive proof of performance that we’ve seen, but it’s still more reassuring than nothing.


Clearly filtered pitcher parts
Clearly filtered pitcher parts
As for design, the Clearly Filtered pitcher got a score of 9.70. The pitcher is made from BPA-free Tritan plastic and is WQA certified for lead-free design, on top of holding a materials safety certification as a component of its performance certifications.
As for design, the Clearly Filtered pitcher got a score of 9.70. The pitcher is made from BPA-free Tritan plastic and is WQA certified for lead-free design, on top of holding a materials safety certification as a component of its performance certifications.


We timed the filtration process and recorded that the CF pitcher filtered 0.5 gallons of water in 13 minutes and 12 seconds, giving it a 2.27 GPH filtration rate. This put it slightly ahead of the Epic Pure, which had a 2.23 GPH filtration rate – but both filters got the top score here.
We timed the filtration process and recorded that the CF pitcher filtered 0.5 gallons of water in 13 minutes and 12 seconds, giving it a 2.27 GPH filtration rate. This put it slightly ahead of the Epic Pure, which had a 2.23 GPH filtration rate – but both filters got the top score here.


We think the Clearly Filtered Pitcher makes the most sense for people who are happy to pay a slightly higher upfront and ongoing cost to effectively address many contaminants in their water with a system that’s certified for performance and materials safety.
We think the Clearly Filtered Pitcher makes the most sense for people who are happy to pay a slightly higher upfront and ongoing cost to effectively address many contaminants in their water with a system that’s certified for performance and materials safety.


Criteria Results
Criteria Results
Overall Score 8.78
Overall Score 8.78
Health Related Contaminants 8.30
Health Related Contaminants 8.30
Aesthetic Related Contaminants 9.90
Aesthetic Related Contaminants 9.90
Performance Certification Certified for <1% of reduction claims
Performance Certification Certified for <1% of reduction claims
Filtration Rate 2.27 GPH
Filtration Rate 2.27 GPH
Component Quality Outstanding
Component Quality Outstanding
Component Certification Certified
Component Certification Certified
Setup Outstanding
Setup Outstanding
Servicing Requirements Outstanding
Servicing Requirements Outstanding
Costs $0.55/ gallon
Costs $0.55/ gallon
Warranty Length 1 year
Warranty Length 1 year
Shipping Free shipping
Shipping Free shipping
Returns 30 days
Returns 30 days
ZeroWater Ready-Pour Pitcher
ZeroWater Ready-Pour Pitcher
ZeroWater Ready-Pour Pitcher
ZeroWater Ready-Pour Pitcher
The ZeroWater Ready-Pour Pitcher offers a unique take on gravity-fed water filtration, using a 6-stage filter to reduce TDS down to 0. The unit is certified to reduce more contaminants than the CF pitcher and reduced the highest concentrations of many contaminants in our water, including fluoride, uranium, and nitrate.
The ZeroWater Ready-Pour Pitcher offers a unique take on gravity-fed water filtration, using a 6-stage filter to reduce TDS down to 0. The unit is certified to reduce more contaminants than the CF pitcher and reduced the highest concentrations of many contaminants in our water, including fluoride, uranium, and nitrate.


Overall Score: 8.62
Overall Score: 8.62
How We Test & Score
How We Test & Score
8.34 Contaminant Reduction
8.34 Contaminant Reduction
8.80 Design
8.80 Design
8.25 Maintenance
8.25 Maintenance
10.00 Filtration Rate
10.00 Filtration Rate
9.50 Setup
9.50 Setup
7.50 Company
7.50 Company
Best For
Best For
Reducing up to 100% of most health-related contaminants
Reducing up to 100% of most health-related contaminants
Included TDS meter for tracking filter lifespan
Included TDS meter for tracking filter lifespan
Certified to reduce the most contaminants
Certified to reduce the most contaminants
Portable, durable, & doesn’t need electricity
Portable, durable, & doesn’t need electricity
Product Specs
Product Specs
Price $39.99
Price $39.99
Contaminants Reduced 24
Contaminants Reduced 24
Certifications NSF/ANSI 42 & 53
Certifications NSF/ANSI 42 & 53
Process Activated Carbon + Ion Exchange Resin
Process Activated Carbon + Ion Exchange Resin
Filter Capacity 25 gallons
Filter Capacity 25 gallons
Annual Cost ~$110
Annual Cost ~$110
Warranty Vessels 90 days, filters 30 days
Warranty Vessels 90 days, filters 30 days
Our Verdict
Our Verdict
The ZeroWater Pitcher is another system that impressed us with its thorough contaminant reduction. It also got great scores for its filtration rate and setup.
The ZeroWater Pitcher is another system that impressed us with its thorough contaminant reduction. It also got great scores for its filtration rate and setup.


The pitcher has a handy way of tracking filter life with the included TDS meter. It’s designed to reduce TDS down to 0, and ZeroWater says that you should replace the filter when the TDS meter reads 006. This meant that we had more certainty on when to change the filters because we weren’t only relying on a timer or water volume tracker.
The pitcher has a handy way of tracking filter life with the included TDS meter. It’s designed to reduce TDS down to 0, and ZeroWater says that you should replace the filter when the TDS meter reads 006. This meant that we had more certainty on when to change the filters because we weren’t only relying on a timer or water volume tracker.


Plus, it’s certified to reduce 6 contaminants – that’s 3 more than Clearly Filtered.
Plus, it’s certified to reduce 6 contaminants – that’s 3 more than Clearly Filtered.


View at zerowater.com
View at zerowater.com
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View on Amazon
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View at Walmart
Discount: Get 10% off at zerowater.com
ZeroWater Performance
ZeroWater Performance
ZeroWater received an 8.34 score for contaminant reduction. Our test data showed that it had reduced 100% fluoride, chlorine, uranium, barium, strontium, molybdenum, nitrate, and sulfate. It also reduced 97% copper – an excellent result overall.
ZeroWater received an 8.34 score for contaminant reduction. Our test data showed that it had reduced 100% fluoride, chlorine, uranium, barium, strontium, molybdenum, nitrate, and sulfate. It also reduced 97% copper – an excellent result overall.



Made with Flourish
Made with Flourish

Made with Flourish
Made with Flourish
But 3.4 PPB of chloroform (a disinfection byproduct) was detected in our filtered water, which wasn’t detected in our unfiltered water. This pulled down the filter’s contaminant reduction score. The filter also greatly reduced healthy minerals in our water as part of its TDS reduction, which we weren’t impressed with.
But 3.4 PPB of chloroform (a disinfection byproduct) was detected in our filtered water, which wasn’t detected in our unfiltered water. This pulled down the filter’s contaminant reduction score. The filter also greatly reduced healthy minerals in our water as part of its TDS reduction, which we weren’t impressed with.


We were pleased to see that the ZeroWater Pitcher has NSF Standard 42 and Standard 53 certifications for reducing chlorine taste and odors, mercury, lead, PFOA, PFOS, and hexavalent chromium. But we still think it could be certified to reduce more contaminants – ZeroWater claims it can reduce 24.
We were pleased to see that the ZeroWater Pitcher has NSF Standard 42 and Standard 53 certifications for reducing chlorine taste and odors, mercury, lead, PFOA, PFOS, and hexavalent chromium. But we still think it could be certified to reduce more contaminants – ZeroWater claims it can reduce 24.


We awarded the pitcher a 10.00 for filtration rate. We calculated that it filtered 0.391 gallons of water in just under 9 minutes, giving it a filtration speed of 2.62 GPH (making it slightly faster than Epic and Clearly Filtered).
We awarded the pitcher a 10.00 for filtration rate. We calculated that it filtered 0.391 gallons of water in just under 9 minutes, giving it a filtration speed of 2.62 GPH (making it slightly faster than Epic and Clearly Filtered).


Setup was easiest with the ZeroWater pitcher because it was the only pitcher that required no filter priming, soaking, or flushing. The filter arrived ready to go, so we could start using it straight away. It got the same high score (9.50) as Epic and Clearly Filtered in this category.
Setup was easiest with the ZeroWater pitcher because it was the only pitcher that required no filter priming, soaking, or flushing. The filter arrived ready to go, so we could start using it straight away. It got the same high score (9.50) as Epic and Clearly Filtered in this category.


ZeroWater’s maintenance requirements let it down somewhat. It has the worst capacity of any water pitcher filter we’ve tested – just 40 gallons – with some customers claiming it only lasted 1-2 weeks. Plus, its ongoing cost of $0.70/ gallon was up to triple the cost per gallon of many other pitchers we tested.
ZeroWater’s maintenance requirements let it down somewhat. It has the worst capacity of any water pitcher filter we’ve tested – just 40 gallons – with some customers claiming it only lasted 1-2 weeks. Plus, its ongoing cost of $0.70/ gallon was up to triple the cost per gallon of many other pitchers we tested.


We recommend the ZeroWater filter pitcher to anyone who wants a comprehensive water filtration solution that reduces high levels of many contaminants, at the expense of a short filter lifespan and higher ongoing cost.
We recommend the ZeroWater filter pitcher to anyone who wants a comprehensive water filtration solution that reduces high levels of many contaminants, at the expense of a short filter lifespan and higher ongoing cost.


Criteria Results
Criteria Results
Overall Score 8.62
Overall Score 8.62
Health Related Contaminants 8.30
Health Related Contaminants 8.30
Aesthetic Related Contaminants 9.90
Aesthetic Related Contaminants 9.90
Performance Certification Certified for 25% of reduction claims
Performance Certification Certified for 25% of reduction claims
Filtration Rate 2.62 GPH
Filtration Rate 2.62 GPH
Component Quality Fair
Component Quality Fair
Component Certification Certified
Component Certification Certified
Setup Outstanding
Setup Outstanding
Servicing Requirements Outstanding
Servicing Requirements Outstanding
Costs $0.70/ gallon
Costs $0.70/ gallon
Warranty Length Vessels 90 days, filters 30 days
Warranty Length Vessels 90 days, filters 30 days
Shipping Free shipping on orders above $60 to continental US
Shipping Free shipping on orders above $60 to continental US
Returns No returns
Returns No returns
Santevia MINA Pitcher
Santevia MINA Pitcher
Santevia MINA Alkaline Pitcher
Santevia MINA Alkaline Pitcher
The Santevia MINA Pitcher is the only alkalizing water filter pitcher to make our list. It did a great job of reducing many contaminants in our water, and we were impressed with its ability to raise water pH by up to 2.0 (although our own results varied – more on that later).
The Santevia MINA Pitcher is the only alkalizing water filter pitcher to make our list. It did a great job of reducing many contaminants in our water, and we were impressed with its ability to raise water pH by up to 2.0 (although our own results varied – more on that later).


Overall Score: 8.45
Overall Score: 8.45
How We Test & Score
How We Test & Score
8.12 Contaminant Reduction
8.12 Contaminant Reduction
8.10 Design
8.10 Design
9.75 Maintenance
9.75 Maintenance
8.50 Filtration Rate
8.50 Filtration Rate
9.50 Setup
9.50 Setup
7.95 Company
7.95 Company
Best For
Best For
Reducing contaminants and increasing water’s alkalinity & pH
Reducing contaminants and increasing water’s alkalinity & pH
Budget-friendly – costs less than $50 upfront
Budget-friendly – costs less than $50 upfront
Easy to maintain
Easy to maintain
Product Specs
Product Specs
Price $49.99
Price $49.99
Contaminants Reduced 85
Contaminants Reduced 85
Certifications Not certified
Certifications Not certified
Process Carbon + Ion Exchange + Remineralization
Process Carbon + Ion Exchange + Remineralization
Filter Capacity 80 gallons
Filter Capacity 80 gallons
Annual Cost ~$120
Annual Cost ~$120
Warranty 90 days
Warranty 90 days
Why We Liked It
Why We Liked It
The Santevia MINA was the best alkalizing water filter pitcher we tested, being the only filter to reduce healthy contaminants and increase the pH and alkalinity of water.
The Santevia MINA was the best alkalizing water filter pitcher we tested, being the only filter to reduce healthy contaminants and increase the pH and alkalinity of water.


It’s also the most affordable of all the pitchers we’ve mentioned in this guide so far, falling within the $0-$50 price bracket, and with an ongoing cost of just $0.25/ gallon – impressive given that it provides an additional water quality advantage that none of the other systems offer.
It’s also the most affordable of all the pitchers we’ve mentioned in this guide so far, falling within the $0-$50 price bracket, and with an ongoing cost of just $0.25/ gallon – impressive given that it provides an additional water quality advantage that none of the other systems offer.


View at zerowater.com
View at zerowater.com
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View on Amazon
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View at Walmart
Santevia MINA Performance
Santevia MINA Performance
The Santevia MINA pitcher’s overall contaminant reduction score was 8.12, putting it only slightly behind Clearly Filtered and ZeroWater. It reduced 7 contaminants in our water: 100% chlorine, uranium, molybdenum, and copper, 78% barium, 77% nitrate, and 72% strontium.
The Santevia MINA pitcher’s overall contaminant reduction score was 8.12, putting it only slightly behind Clearly Filtered and ZeroWater. It reduced 7 contaminants in our water: 100% chlorine, uranium, molybdenum, and copper, 78% barium, 77% nitrate, and 72% strontium.



Made with Flourish
Made with Flourish
However, the MINA pitcher isn’t performance-certified, which affected its overall score in this category. Plus, fluoride actually increased slightly from 1.1 PPM to 1.2 PPM, telling us that the filter doesn’t effectively address this contaminant.
However, the MINA pitcher isn’t performance-certified, which affected its overall score in this category. Plus, fluoride actually increased slightly from 1.1 PPM to 1.2 PPM, telling us that the filter doesn’t effectively address this contaminant.



Made with Flourish
Made with Flourish
Santevia’s main selling point is its ability to increase the alkalinity of water, which has a few possible health benefits. When we first got the pitcher, we used a pH meter to test our water. The unfiltered water had a 7.89 pH, and our filtered water’s pH had increased to 9.94. However, when we tested the pitcher later with a lab test, pH only increased by 0.1, from 7.4 to 7.5.
Santevia’s main selling point is its ability to increase the alkalinity of water, which has a few possible health benefits. When we first got the pitcher, we used a pH meter to test our water. The unfiltered water had a 7.89 pH, and our filtered water’s pH had increased to 9.94. However, when we tested the pitcher later with a lab test, pH only increased by 0.1, from 7.4 to 7.5.


Testing the pH level of water after filtration with Santevia MINA Alkaline Pitcher
Testing the pH level of water after filtration with Santevia MINA Alkaline Pitcher

Made with Flourish
Made with Flourish
The system got an 8.50 score from us for its filtration rate. It filtered 0.383 gallons of water in just over 16 minutes, giving it a filtration rate of 1.43 GPH – around 1 GPM slower than most other pitchers we tested.
The system got an 8.50 score from us for its filtration rate. It filtered 0.383 gallons of water in just over 16 minutes, giving it a filtration rate of 1.43 GPH – around 1 GPM slower than most other pitchers we tested.


We couldn’t fault the filter setup process. It also got a 9.50 in this category because assembly took less than 5 minutes – we just had to wash and assemble the pitcher, then hold the filter under running water for 1 minute until the water ran clear.
We couldn’t fault the filter setup process. It also got a 9.50 in this category because assembly took less than 5 minutes – we just had to wash and assemble the pitcher, then hold the filter under running water for 1 minute until the water ran clear.


We think the Santevia MINA pitcher is a great fit for folks who want to go a step further than simply reducing contaminants in their water, and anyone who wants the possible taste and health benefits of filtered water with an alkaline pH.
We think the Santevia MINA pitcher is a great fit for folks who want to go a step further than simply reducing contaminants in their water, and anyone who wants the possible taste and health benefits of filtered water with an alkaline pH.


Criteria Results
Criteria Results
Overall Score 8.45
Overall Score 8.45
Health Related Contaminants 8.30
Health Related Contaminants 8.30
Aesthetic Related Contaminants 9.50
Aesthetic Related Contaminants 9.50
Performance Certification Not certified
Performance Certification Not certified
Filtration Rate 1.43 GPH
Filtration Rate 1.43 GPH
Component Quality Outstanding
Component Quality Outstanding
Component Certification Not certified
Component Certification Not certified
Setup Outstanding
Setup Outstanding
Servicing Requirements Outstanding
Servicing Requirements Outstanding
Costs $0.25/ gallon
Costs $0.25/ gallon
Warranty Length 90 days
Warranty Length 90 days
Shipping Free shipping on orders over $99, except Hawaii, Puerto Rico & Alaska
Shipping Free shipping on orders over $99, except Hawaii, Puerto Rico & Alaska
Returns 30 days
Returns 30 days
LARQ Pure-Vis Advanced Pitcher
LARQ Pure-Vis Advanced Pitcher
LARQ Pure-Vis Advanced Pitcher
LARQ Pure-Vis Advanced Pitcher
The LARQ Pure-Vis Advanced Pitcher filters and purifies water with a unique 2-stage process involving a filter cartridge and a UV wand. It reduced numerous contaminants in our testing, and we thought it had the most attractive design of all the water filter pitchers we tested.
The LARQ Pure-Vis Advanced Pitcher filters and purifies water with a unique 2-stage process involving a filter cartridge and a UV wand. It reduced numerous contaminants in our testing, and we thought it had the most attractive design of all the water filter pitchers we tested.


Overall Score: 8.21
Overall Score: 8.21
How We Test & Score
How We Test & Score
8.14 Contaminant Reduction
8.14 Contaminant Reduction
8.10 Design
8.10 Design
9.00 Maintenance
9.00 Maintenance
7.00 Filtration Rate
7.00 Filtration Rate
9.00 Setup
9.00 Setup
8.35 Company
8.35 Company
Best For
Best For
Prevents bacteria growth with UV disinfection
Prevents bacteria growth with UV disinfection
Attractive, quality design
Attractive, quality design
Easy assembly and maintenance
Easy assembly and maintenance
The only high-tech pitcher we reviewed
The only high-tech pitcher we reviewed
Product Specs
Product Specs
Price $139.00
Price $139.00
Contaminants Reduced 60+
Contaminants Reduced 60+
Certifications Not Certified
Certifications Not Certified
Process Activated Carbon + UV Purification
Process Activated Carbon + UV Purification
Filter Capacity 60 gallons
Filter Capacity 60 gallons
Annual Cost ~$150
Annual Cost ~$150
Warranty 1 year
Warranty 1 year
Our Take
Our Take
The LARQ Pure-Vis Advanced Pitcher is the most expensive water filter pitcher we’ve tried, but it’s the only pitcher with a unique UV purification stage to prevent bacterial growth in the filtered water chamber.
The LARQ Pure-Vis Advanced Pitcher is the most expensive water filter pitcher we’ve tried, but it’s the only pitcher with a unique UV purification stage to prevent bacterial growth in the filtered water chamber.


The pitcher’s filtration performance wasn’t far off Clearly Filtered’s – it got the same score in our lab testing, but it doesn’t have a performance certification.
The pitcher’s filtration performance wasn’t far off Clearly Filtered’s – it got the same score in our lab testing, but it doesn’t have a performance certification.


See price on Amazon
See price on Amazon
LARQ Pure-Vis Performance
LARQ Pure-Vis Performance
We awarded the LARQ Pure-Vis pitcher an 8.14 for contaminant reduction. It did a great job of removing 100% uranium, barium, strontium, and molybdenum, and reducing 97% copper, 88% sulfate, and 20% nitrate. Unfortunately, it didn’t reduce fluoride in our water at all.
We awarded the LARQ Pure-Vis pitcher an 8.14 for contaminant reduction. It did a great job of removing 100% uranium, barium, strontium, and molybdenum, and reducing 97% copper, 88% sulfate, and 20% nitrate. Unfortunately, it didn’t reduce fluoride in our water at all.



Made with Flourish
Made with Flourish

Made with Flourish
Made with Flourish
The Pure-Vis pitcher’s UV purification stage is the biggest reason why we were drawn to the system. Microorganisms aren’t present in treated city water, but a number of studies (including this study on Brita water filter pitchers) have found that microorganisms can grow in filter media. The LARQ pitcher provides protection against bacteria growth in the filter media and the pitcher chamber, so we didn’t have to wash it out as often as the other pitchers.
The Pure-Vis pitcher’s UV purification stage is the biggest reason why we were drawn to the system. Microorganisms aren’t present in treated city water, but a number of studies (including this study on Brita water filter pitchers) have found that microorganisms can grow in filter media. The LARQ pitcher provides protection against bacteria growth in the filter media and the pitcher chamber, so we didn’t have to wash it out as often as the other pitchers.


The system did well in the setup and maintenance categories, with scores of 9.00 in each. Setup was a bit more involved – we had to soak the filter for 10 minutes before installing it, charge the battery pack for the UV wand, and install the app. Maintenance required the same filter soaking and UV wand charging (but the battery lasts around 1 month on a full charge).
The system did well in the setup and maintenance categories, with scores of 9.00 in each. Setup was a bit more involved – we had to soak the filter for 10 minutes before installing it, charge the battery pack for the UV wand, and install the app. Maintenance required the same filter soaking and UV wand charging (but the battery lasts around 1 month on a full charge).


We estimated the filter’s ongoing cost as $0.54/ gallon, so it’s about on par with the Clearly Filtered pitcher – not the cheapest, but not as costly as ZeroWater.
We estimated the filter’s ongoing cost as $0.54/ gallon, so it’s about on par with the Clearly Filtered pitcher – not the cheapest, but not as costly as ZeroWater.


As for design, the LARQ pitcher felt like it was made from the same high-quality materials as Clearly Filtered. It felt thick, solid, and durable, and more capable of withstanding long-term use than the other pitchers we tested.
As for design, the LARQ pitcher felt like it was made from the same high-quality materials as Clearly Filtered. It felt thick, solid, and durable, and more capable of withstanding long-term use than the other pitchers we tested.


LARQ Pure-Vis Advanced pitcher components
LARQ Pure-Vis Advanced pitcher components
In our opinion, the LARQ Pure-Vis pitcher is ideal for anyone who has concerns about biofilm growth and microorganisms in their filter media and the pitcher vessel itself, and folks who want the reassurance of filtering and purifying their water at the same time.
In our opinion, the LARQ Pure-Vis pitcher is ideal for anyone who has concerns about biofilm growth and microorganisms in their filter media and the pitcher vessel itself, and folks who want the reassurance of filtering and purifying their water at the same time.


Criteria Results
Criteria Results
Overall Score 8.21
Overall Score 8.21
Health Related Contaminants 8.30
Health Related Contaminants 8.30
Aesthetic Related Contaminants 9.90
Aesthetic Related Contaminants 9.90
Performance Certification Not Certified
Performance Certification Not Certified
Filtration Rate 0.60 GPH
Filtration Rate 0.60 GPH
Component Quality Outstanding
Component Quality Outstanding
Component Certification Not Certified
Component Certification Not Certified
Setup Excellent
Setup Excellent
Servicing Requirements Exceptional
Servicing Requirements Exceptional
Costs $0.54/ gallon
Costs $0.54/ gallon
Warranty Length 1 year
Warranty Length 1 year
Shipping Free on orders over $80 within the contiguous US
Shipping Free on orders over $80 within the contiguous US
Returns 30 days, but only if unopened
Returns 30 days, but only if unopened
Filters That Didn’t Make the Cut
Filters That Didn’t Make the Cut
We want to close off this review with a quick mention of the other three pitchers we tested, which received lower performance scores than the rest and therefore didn’t make the cut.
We want to close off this review with a quick mention of the other three pitchers we tested, which received lower performance scores than the rest and therefore didn’t make the cut.


These were:
These were:


The PUR Plus Pitcher
The PUR Plus Pitcher
The Brita Elite Pitcher
The Brita Elite Pitcher
The Waterdrop Chubby Pitcher
The Waterdrop Chubby Pitcher
These filters all got poorer contaminant reduction scores: the PUR Plus got 5.28; the Brita Elite got 4.29; and the Waterdrop Chubby got 4.24.
These filters all got poorer contaminant reduction scores: the PUR Plus got 5.28; the Brita Elite got 4.29; and the Waterdrop Chubby got 4.24.


None of the pitchers are tested or certified to reduce most of the contaminants (like uranium, fluoride, and molybdenum) in our water. So we were unsurprised when the pitchers did a poor job of reducing these contaminants.
None of the pitchers are tested or certified to reduce most of the contaminants (like uranium, fluoride, and molybdenum) in our water. So we were unsurprised when the pitchers did a poor job of reducing these contaminants.


Our testing outcomes don’t necessarily mean that the filters are incapable of reducing contaminants; just that they couldn’t address our own water quality concerns. If we’d tested the filters with water predominantly containing contaminants they could address, the contaminant reduction scores would likely have been higher.
Our testing outcomes don’t necessarily mean that the filters are incapable of reducing contaminants; just that they couldn’t address our own water quality concerns. If we’d tested the filters with water predominantly containing contaminants they could address, the contaminant reduction scores would likely have been higher.


That’s why testing your water before buying a filter is so important: you want to ensure that the system you choose can effectively address your unique water quality issues.
That’s why testing your water before buying a filter is so important: you want to ensure that the system you choose can effectively address your unique water quality issues.




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Brian Campbell
Brian Campbell
Brian Campbell
Brian Campbell
President & CEO, CWS, CWR
President & CEO, CWS, CWR
Brian Campbell, a WQA Certified Water Specialist (CWS) and Certified Water Treatment Representative (CWR) with 5+ years of experience, helps homeowners navigate the world of water treatment. After honing his skills at Hach Company, he founded his business to empower homeowners with the knowledge and tools to achieve safe, healthy water. Brian's tested countless devices, from simple pitchers to complex systems, helping his readers find the perfect fit for their unique needs.
Brian Campbell, a WQA Certified Water Specialist (CWS) and Certified Water Treatment Representative (CWR) with 5+ years of experience, helps homeowners navigate the world of water treatment. After honing his skills at Hach Company, he founded his business to empower homeowners with the knowledge and tools to achieve safe, healthy water. Brian's tested countless devices, from simple pitchers to complex systems, helping his readers find the perfect fit for their unique needs.


8 thoughts on “The 5 Best Water Filter Pitchers, According to Our Testing”
8 thoughts on “The 5 Best Water Filter Pitchers, According to Our Testing”
Avatar for Brian Campbell

SergiApril 21, 2024 at 2:48 pm
SergiApril 21, 2024 at 2:48 pm
Excellent comparison and very useful. Isn’t it worrying that filter jugs like EPIC PURE, Santevia MINA or LARQ increase sulfate or chloride levels after the filtering process? Does this pose any security risk? I am surprised that EPIC PURE is in position 1 in the ranking, considering this data
Excellent comparison and very useful. Isn’t it worrying that filter jugs like EPIC PURE, Santevia MINA or LARQ increase sulfate or chloride levels after the filtering process? Does this pose any security risk? I am surprised that EPIC PURE is in position 1 in the ranking, considering this data


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Avatar for Brian Campbell
Brian CampbellApril 22, 2024 at 7:23 am
Brian CampbellApril 22, 2024 at 7:23 am
Hey Sergi, thanks for the comment! While we observed slight increases in the impurities mentioned, the levels were well below the Health Guideline Level benchmark, so we did not consider them too much of a concern.
Hey Sergi, thanks for the comment! While we observed slight increases in the impurities mentioned, the levels were well below the Health Guideline Level benchmark, so we did not consider them too much of a concern.


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Barbara OndrickoApril 10, 2024 at 12:18 pm
Barbara OndrickoApril 10, 2024 at 12:18 pm
I live in Windsor Ontario Canada and our water is currently disinfected using ozonation . I am looking to upgrade from the Pur Plus system and I am particularly concerned about plastic microcontaminants that ozonation does not address. I am only interested in a water pitcher system . Thankyou for your time.
I live in Windsor Ontario Canada and our water is currently disinfected using ozonation . I am looking to upgrade from the Pur Plus system and I am particularly concerned about plastic microcontaminants that ozonation does not address. I am only interested in a water pitcher system . Thankyou for your time.


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Avatar for Brian Campbell
Brian CampbellApril 11, 2024 at 8:36 am
Brian CampbellApril 11, 2024 at 8:36 am
Hey Barbara, the Clearly Filtered water pitcher performed well in our testing and has been tested to reduce microplastics, but it’s not yet certified to do so. If you are looking for a pitcher thats specifically certified to reduce microplastics, check out the PUR Plus.
Hey Barbara, the Clearly Filtered water pitcher performed well in our testing and has been tested to reduce microplastics, but it’s not yet certified to do so. If you are looking for a pitcher thats specifically certified to reduce microplastics, check out the PUR Plus.


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richardApril 5, 2024 at 1:20 am
richardApril 5, 2024 at 1:20 am
Please help me understand why the Zero water was rated #3 when it removed almost 100% of everything that it was being tested for and the con was only that it had
Please help me u