Water is essential for human life, and having the cleanest, purest drinking water available makes it easy to stay healthy and hydrated. While municipal water is often tested as safe to drink, it can still contain contaminants that aren’t great for humans and pets to consume, which is why it makes sense to have an under sink water filtration system installed to help remove any contaminants.
Finding the best under sink water filter/filtration system for your home means reading reviews, studying product features, and diving into the ins and outs of available filters and configurations. With the right under sink water filter/filtration system, you can ensure that you and your family are getting the cleanest, best-tasting drinking water.
We reviewed dozens of under sink water filters/filtration systems to identify the best of the best, based on Amazon reviews, how well they performed in tests, cost, and other considerations. We narrowed our search down to 5 of the top-rated under sink water filters/filtration systems homeowners can purchase to ensure the best possible drinking water.
We’ve identified Woder 10K-Gen3 Ultra High Capacity Direct Connect Water Filtration System as the best under sink water filter/filtration system out there. With a minimum three-year run life, this under sink water filter/filtration system is one that will keep your entire home in tip-top shape. These benefits allow you to enjoy the purest, best-tasting drinking water with little to no hassle.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Under Sink Water Filtration Systems
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Our Top Pick | Woder 10K-Gen3 Ultra High Capacity Direct Connect Water Filtration System | 4.6 |
| Our Runner Up | Brondell RO Circle Water Saving Reverse Osmosis Water Filter System | 4.4 |
| Best Budget Pick | CuZn UC-200 Under Counter Water Filter | 4.9 |
| Best 5-Stage Under Sink Water Filter | APEC Water Systems 5-Stage Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Filter System | 4.7 |
| Best Under Sink Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration System | iSpring RCC7AK Under Sink Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Filter System | 4.7 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Our Top Pick: Woder 10K-Gen3 Ultra High Capacity Direct Connect Water Filtration System
The Woder 10K-Gen3 Ultra High Capacity Direct Connect Water Filtration System took the top spot on our list of the best under sink water filters/filtration systems. It removes over 99.99% of contaminants, while leaving in essential minerals. It boasts an impressive run life of three years minimum (or 10,000 gallons), and installs inline to your water system for added convenience.
Those who purchased and reviewed this under sink water filter/filtration system appreciated that it was super easy to install, and could go at least three years between filter changes. People commented that it noticeably helped to reduce odor from their water. Although several reviewers mentioned that flow rate decreased after installing this filter, most still found it within expected limits.
With a price tag of around $100, it doesn’t come cheap, but isn’t as pricey as the majority of under sink water filtration systems out there. The quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of setup and use more than justifies that price. It has a rating of 4.6 on Amazon with more than 1,000 people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing homeowners to make the investment.
Woder 10K-Gen3 Ultra High Capacity Direct Connect Water Filtration System Key Features:
- Independent lab tested to ANSI standards (American National Standards Institute)
- Flow rate 2GPM @65 psig
- For use with municipal treated cold water only
Our Runner Up Pick: Brondell RO Circle Water Saving Reverse Osmosis Water Filter System
The Brondell RO Circle Water Saving Reverse Osmosis Water Filter System took the runner-up spot on our list of the best under sink water filters/filtration systems, and uses a patented technology that helps to eliminate back-pressure within the system for improved efficiency. It comes complete with a chrome drinking faucet with integrated LED filter change indicator, and provides four-stage reverse osmosis filtration that meets NSF/ANSI standards.
Those who purchased and reviewed this under sink water filter/filtration system appreciated that it made their water taste clean and crisp, and that the unit itself was visually appealing. People said installation was fairly quick — at around one hour — and that it wasted less water than other reverse osmosis systems. Reviewers also liked that it didn’t require electricity to run.
At a cost of about $260, it doesn’t come cheap, but the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of setup and use more than justifies that price. It has a rating of 4.4 on Amazon with more than 100 people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing homeowners to make the investment.
Brondell RO Circle Water Saving Reverse Osmosis Water Filter System Key Features:
- WQA Gold Seal certified
- Compact, space-saving design
- Quick change twist and seal filters for added convenience
Best Budget Pick: CuZn UC-200 Under Counter Water Filter
The CuZn UC-200 Under Counter Water Filter is an excellent choice for those looking for an under sink water filter/filtration system that won’t break the bank. It boasts an inline design that is compact and discreet while still being effective. It offers a 50,000 gallon or 5-year capacity, and includes a 90-day satisfaction guarantee. It uses a three-stage filtration process, including micro sediment membranes, KDF-55 filtration media, and acid-washed coconut shell activated carbon.
Those who purchased and reviewed this under sink water filter/filtration system appreciated that it was easy to install and offered a noticeable improvement in the smell and taste of their water. Those that needed to contact customer support said they were outstanding.
At a cost of approximately $120, this under sink water filter/filtration system is a solid choice for those looking for an under sink water filter/filtration system option on a budget. It has a rating of 4.9 on Amazon with more than 600 people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing homeowners that this budget-friendly pick is just as good at filtering their water as its more expensive counterparts.
CuZn UC-200 Under Counter Water Filter Key Features:
- For use with municipal treated cold water only
- Not susceptible to mold or bacteria growth
- Made in the USA
Best 5-Stage Under Sink Water Filter: APEC Water Systems 5-Stage Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Filter System
The APEC Water Systems 5-Stage Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Filter System is made from high caliber components that provide exceptional contaminant rejection rates, and features five stages of reverse osmosis filtration. It helps to remove up to 99% of contaminants from your water, including arsenic, chlorine, lead, fluoride, and more. It is made with FDA certified JG food grade tubing and parts for added peace of mind. The leak-free quick connect fittings make installation quick and easy.
Those who purchased and reviewed this under sink water filter/filtration system appreciated that it provided clean, quality drinking water without a hefty price tag. Although people mentioned that the installation took quite a bit of time, they commented that the included directions were easy to follow.
With a price tag of around $190, it doesn’t come cheap, but the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of setup and use more than justifies that price. It has a rating of 4.7 on Amazon with more than 200 people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing homeowners to make the investment.
APEC Water Systems 5-Stage Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Filter System Key Features:
- Noise-free system
- Comes with a 100% lead-free designer faucet
- Includes a 2-year warranty
Best Under Sink Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration System: iSpring RCC7AK Under Sink Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Filter System
The iSpring RCC7AK Under Sink Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Filter System is the best option for those looking for an under sink reverse osmosis water filtration system. It offers a six-stage filtration process, as well as an integrated water softener. It removes up to 99% of over 1,000 contaminants, including lead, chlorine, fluoride, arsenic, hormones, and more. It comes with an alkaline remineralization filter, which helps to restore healthy minerals that are removed during the reverse osmosis process, and produces a balanced alkalinity for more natural tasting water.
Those who purchased and reviewed this under sink water filter/filtration system appreciated that it was easy (if time-consuming) to install, and that replacement filters for the unit were reasonably priced. People commented that it didn’t leak, and produced great-tasting water.
At a cost of about $213, it doesn’t come cheap, but the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of setup and use more than justifies that price. It has a rating of 4.7 on Amazon with more than 1,700 people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing homeowners to make the investment.
iSpring RCC7AK Under Sink Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Filter System Key Features:
- WQA Gold Seal certified
- Feed water pressure of 45-70 psi
- Includes a European-designed brushed nickel all-metal faucet
Who Should Buy an Under Sink Water Filter or Filtration System
An under sink water filter/filtration system is an ideal choice for those who are concerned about the quality of their water. Even though the majority of municipally treated domestic water is safe for human consumption, it can still include potentially harmful contaminants such as chlorine, lead, fluoride, arsenic, and more.
These contaminants can be picked up as the water travels through aging pipe systems within your city or home. These contaminants can not only impact your health, but can also affect the taste of your drinking water. By installing an under sink water filter or filtration system, you can enjoy cleaner, fresher-tasting drinking water at a fraction of the cost of buying bottled water.
An under sink water filter/filtration system is also a good idea for those who notice smells in their water. Homeowners who are on a dug well system will also benefit from a water filtration system, as those systems are prone to having a lot of sediment within them.
Those with weakened immune systems, children, and the elderly can all benefit from installing an under sink water filter or filtration system in their home.
If you’re looking for a water filtration system because you’re in the market for a home, then you won’t want to miss What Questions To Ask When Buying A Home: The Six Things You Want To Know Before You Buy, According To The Experts.
Important Features to Consider
Not all under sink water filters/filtration systems are created equal. An under sink water filter/filtration system should be easy to install and use, and filter harmful contaminants. Here’s what to consider when evaluating the options in search of the best under sink water filter/filtration system for your home:
- Contaminants removed. Arguably the most important consideration when it comes to buying the best under sink water filter/filtration system is which contaminants it removes. Simple, less expensive filters are often only good at removing large sediment and chlorine, while costlier reverse osmosis systems are highly effective at removing a wide range of different heavy metals and chemicals. Consider what you want out of your water, and purchase a system with a filter to do the job. Ensure the filter has been NSF certified, as this ensures its claims are legitimate.
- Size. Another important consideration when choosing a water filter system is the size. Some systems can be quite large, and will take up a considerable amount of storage space under your sink. If space is an issue, you can consider installing an inline water filter or wall-mounted unit.
- Waste vs. pure water ratio. If you opt for a reverse osmosis filtration system, look for those with a low waste vs pure water ratio. A traditional RO system typically wastes a large volume of water for each gallon it purifies, sometimes as high as 5:1, which greatly increases your water bill. Many modern systems have ratios of 3:1, with some as low as 1:1.
- Filter life and cost. Since your system will be installed in a tight, small cabinet, you don’t want to have to change your filter too often. This is where selecting a system with long-life filters comes in handy, as you can go longer between maintenance. Also keep in mind the ongoing cost of replacement filters, which can be costly. Compare the costs of replacement filters when comparing filter systems.
- Remineralization. While water filtration systems are very effective at removing contaminants, they also remove beneficial minerals as well. This leaves the filtered water at a slightly acidic level. Many people prefer the taste of more alkaline water, although the oft-hyped health benefits are still disputed. Look for systems with a remineralization filter, or that don’t remove minerals.
- Price point. Finally, consider how much you are willing to spend on an under sink water filter/filtration system. Under sink water filters/filtration systems vary in price from $70-$400 or more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an under sink water filter and how does it work?
An under sink water filter is a type of filtration system that works by removing contaminants such as sediment, chlorine, heavy metals, arsenic, fluoride, and more. While some systems use just a single filter in order to remove contaminants, there are other systems that use a multi-stage filtration process in order to remove contaminants. These work by first removing large particles from the water, then smaller ones. The end result is water that is free of contaminants, odor-free, and great tasting.
How long do under sink water filters last?
Under sink water filters last at varying rates depending on their quality and usage. On average, a quality under sink water filter should be changed about twice per year. There are some models that can last for several years at a time, although they tend to be more expensive than models that require more frequent changes. A reverse osmosis membrane should last about 2-5 years, although the pre-filters will need changed every few months. Always read and follow the manufacturer’s recommended filter change intervals for best results.
How often should you change an under sink water filter?
On average, most under sink water filters need to be changed every 2-3 months. However, a quality under sink water filter can be changed about twice per year, or every 6 months. There are even some models that can last for several years at a time, although they tend to be more expensive than models that require more frequent changes. Always read and follow the manufacturer’s recommended filter change intervals for best results.
What does a reverse osmosis water filter do?
A reverse osmosis water filter removes contaminants from water by using pressure to force water molecules through a semipermeable membrane.This process filters and flushes contaminants away, with the end result being clean drinking water. The reverse osmosis process can remove up to 99% of 65 different contaminants, including lead, fluoride, chlorine, and more.
Other Under Sink Water Filters & Filtration Systems We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other under sink water filters/filtration systems. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best under sink water filters/filtration systems list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option for your home. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
- Under Sink Replacement Water Filters
- Direct Connect Under Sink Water Filter
- Under Sink Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration System
- 3-Stage Under Sink Water Filter
Under Sink Replacement Water Filters
Filtrete Standard Capacity Whole House Carbon Wrap Water Filters
This under sink replacement water filter helps to reduce chlorine taste and odor, along with sediment for healthier, better-tasting water throughout your home.
Key Features:
- Lasts approximately 3 months
- Contains 2 filters
- Tested and certified by WQA against NSF/ANSI Standard 42
Cost: $7
Frizzlife Advanced Undersink Drinking Water Filter Replacement
This under sink replacement water filter helps to removes up to 99.99% of lead, chlorine, bad taste, and odors, and boasts a two-stage filtration process.
Key Features:
- Leaves in healthy minerals
- Lasts 1 year/1,600 gallons
- Money-back guarantee
Cost: $20
Filtrete Standard Capacity Whole House Pleated Water Filters
This under sink replacement water filter helps to remove sand, sediment, rust, and more, and comes in a convenient two pack for added value.
Key Features:
- Lasts up to 3 months
- Universal fitment
- Tested and certified by WQA against NSF/ANSI Standard 42
Cost: $8
Watts MAXVOC-975RV 0.5 Micron Filter Cartridge
This under sink replacement water filter helps to reduce VOCs, cysts, and extended chlorine, while improving the taste and odor of your water.
Key Features:
- Fits all 10-inch Flow-Pur and other brands
- Coconut shell carbon block
- 0.5 micron
Direct Connect Under Sink Water Filter
APEC Water Systems CS-2500 Ultra High Capacity Undersink Water Filtration System
This direct connect under sink water filter helps to remove lead, heavy metals, and chlorine, while improving water taste and odor.
Key Features:
- Quick twist connect installation
- Reduces heterotrophic bacteria
- Made in the USA
Cost: $88
Frizzlife Under Sink Water Filter System
This direct connect under sink water filter boasts a high capacity design that removes 99.9% of lead and chlorine, along with 55 other contaminants.
Key Features:
- Advanced two stage filter
- Keeps in minerals
- Fits both 1/2″ and 3/8″ cold water line
Cost: $74
Woder 10K-DC Ultra High Capacity Under Sink Direct Connect Water Filtration System
This direct connect under sink water filter boasts an ultra-high capacity design, and comes complete with direct connect hoses that fit standard 3/8” water valves.
Key Features:
- For use with municipal treated cold water only
- Lasts up to 10,000 gallons or 3 years
- Flow rate of 3GPM @65 psig
Under Sink Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration System
FS-TFC Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration System
This under sink reverse osmosis water filtration system boasts a five-stage filtration process, and features a compact size that can be wall-mounted for further space-saving.
Key Features:
- Removes up to 99% of contaminants
- Includes a lead-free brushed faucet
- Includes lifetime technical support
Cost: $126
APEC Water Systems RO-90 Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Filter System
This under sink reverse osmosis water filtration system boasts a five-stage filtration process, and comes complete with all required installation hardware and tools.
Key Features:
- WQA Gold Seal certified
- Includes a lead-free chrome faucet
- Made in the USA
Cost: $230
Whirlpool WHER25 Reverse Osmosis Filtration System
This under sink reverse osmosis water filtration system boasts a three-stage filtration process, and comes complete with a designer chrome faucet for added value and convenience.
Key Features:
- Filters last up to 6 months
- Space-saving design
- RO membrane lasts up to 2 years
Cost: $138
iSpring RCC7 High Capacity Reverse Osmosis Drinking Filtration System
This under sink reverse osmosis water filtration system boasts a five-stage filtration process, and helps to remove up to 99.9% of impurities.
Key Features:
- WQA Gold Seal certified
- DIY, leak-free installation
- Includes a European-designed brushed nickel, all-metal faucet
Cost: $190
Home Master TMAFC-ERP Artesian Undersink Reverse Osmosis Water Filter System
This under sink reverse osmosis water filtration system boasts a seven stage filtration process that helps to remove up to 98% of chemicals, including chloramine and other contaminants.
Key Features:
- Adds in minerals
- Built-in non-electric permeate pump
- Filter lasts 1 year/2,000 gallons
Cost: $340
Express Water Alkaline Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration System
This under sink reverse osmosis water filtration system boasts a 10 stage filtration process, and uses patented Active Mineral Technology that re-adds vital minerals back into the water.
Key Features:
- Removes up to 99.99% of contaminants
- Includes a 1-year warranty
- Color-coded quick connect installation system
Cost: $184
APEC Water Systems ROES-PH75 Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Filter System
This under sink reverse osmosis water filtration system boasts a six-stage filtration process that removes up to 99% of contaminants. It comes complete with FDA certified JG Food grade tubing and parts for added peace of mind.
Key Features:
- Includes a 2-year warranty
- Comes with a 100% lead-free designer faucet
- Made in the USA
Cost: $230
Whirlpool WHAROS5 Reverse Osmosis Water Filter
This under sink reverse osmosis water filtration system boasts a space-saving design that is easy to install, and removes up to 15 individual contaminants from your home’s water.
Key Features:
- Filters last approximately 6 months
- NSF certified
- Includes a designer chrome faucet
3-Stage Under Sink Water Filter
Aquasana 3-Stage Under Sink Water Filter System
This 3-stage under sink water filter removes up to 99% of 77 different contaminants including lead, mercury, pesticides, and more, and comes complete with a lead-free brushed metal drinking faucet.
Key Features:
- Zero-waste system
- NSF certified
- Leaves healthy minerals in the water
Cost: $150
APEC WFS-1000 Super Capacity 3 Stage Under-Sink Water Filter System
This 3-stage under sink water filter is suitable for use with both tap water and well water, and comes complete with FDA certified JG food grade tubing for added peace of mind.
Key Features:
- Made in the USA
- Includes a lead-free chrome faucet
- Includes a 1-year satisfaction guarantee
Cost: $136
iSpring US31 3-Stage Under Sink High Capacity Tankless Drinking Water Filtration System
This 3-stage under sink water filter boasts a compact, tankless design that wall mounts for added convenience. It removes sediment, chlorine, VOCs, and more.
Key Features:
- Filters last 6-12 months
- Zero-waste system
- Retains healthy minerals
Cost: $117
Brondell H2O+ Coral UC300 Three-Stage Under Counter Water Filtration System
This 3-stage under sink water filter removes up to 99% of contaminants, and comes complete with an elegant chrome faucet with integrated LED filter change indicator light.
Key Features:
- WQA Gold Seal certified
- Filter lasts 1 year/600 gallons
- Space-saving wall-mount design
Cost: $122
Hydranti Cobalt 3-Stage UF Under Sink Water Filtration System
This 3-stage under sink water filter boasts a tank-free system, and uses quick replace filter cartridges that screw in by hand, without the need to drain the system.
Key Features:
- Includes a chrome faucet
- Includes a 1-year warranty
- Ultrafiltration membrane with a 0.02 micron rating
Cost: $80
