When it comes to your water, few things are more convenient than a filtering pitcher. Filling it up and sticking it in the fridge is simple, and when you’re thirsty, it’s as easy as pouring a glass of clean, safe, purified, fresh water.
The only problem is, there are dozens of different water filter pitchers out there. Which one is best? That all depends on what you’re looking for. Best overall? Most affordable? Biggest capacity? We’ve compiled a list of all these features and more, and ranked the various best water filter pitchers out there. Take a gander and see what they have to offer you.
Best Overall: Aquaspace® Carafe®
It’s difficult to find a water pitcher that can compete with the Aquaspace® Carafe®. For starters, it’s available with a fluoride and heavy metal reduction and alkaline mineral filter. This not only tackles some of the most prevalent municipal compounds in water, like fluoride and chlorine, it also alkalizes water to improve its bioavailability and benefits for the body. This water pitcher isn’t just providing you with filtered water, it’s providing you with healthier water.
The secret is the pour-through filtering technology and the large filter size. It’s outfitted with the Aquaspace® Compound for maximum benefit and unparalleled filtration of everything from halides like chlorine to heavy metals like arsenic. It has a filtration capacity of 125 gallons (three months) and a pitcher that holds 60oz, making it a convenient solution in most kitchens. And, because the filter is a pour-through, you can easily use it to fill multiple receptacles. With a price tag under $100, it’s the absolute best value on this list.
Biggest Capacity: Pur Ultimate Water Dispenser
While technically not a pitcher, this dispenser works in much the same way. Fill it up, stick it in the fridge and let the built-in filter go to work! When you want a cold glass of purified water, just use the tapper to fill one up. With a capacity of 18 cups (144oz), it’s far and away the largest water filter pitcher system on this list.
Beyond size, it also offers an enticing filter solution. Specifically, it’s reputed for its ability to reduce lead levels and other heavy metals, making it great for treating both municipal and well water. It also features a sensor that will change from green to red when the filter needs to be replaced—every 40 gallons of filtration. The only real downside to this dispenser is that the filter life doesn’t last as long as others. For example, the Aquaspace® Carafe® lasts more than three times longer.
Lowest Cost: Brita Metro Pitcher
At $19.99, you’re not going to find a more affordable pitcher than the Brita Metro Pitcher. In fact, it’s so affordable that the replacement filters cost $3 less than the entire unit! It features a locking lid, electronic filter indicator and a six-cup design that makes it easy to grab and go. It’s the simplest water filter on this list, with a no-frills design that’s perfect for people who want a pitcher they can refill over and over again.
There’s an element of “you get what you pay for” here. Don’t expect wonders of cleansing and filtration from a $20 pitcher. While the Brita Metro Pitcher is noted for its ability to filter out lead, that’s about all it’ll filter. It’s great for homeowners living in areas where old lead plumbing infrastructure is a big problem. If you’re looking for a pitcher that’s a bit more robust in its filtration capabilities, keep looking.
Best Alkaline Pitcher: PH20 Purewater Pitcher
For those who treat their bodies to the many benefits of alkaline water on a daily basis, the PH20 Purewater Pitcher is a supreme investment. It’s engineered to alkalize water to 9.5pH, while also filtering out a significant array of metals, VOCs, pollutants and halides. With a 100-gallon filter capacity, this is a pitcher you’ll be able to reach for with confidence each day.
The 32oz capacity leaves a little to be desired, but if you don’t mind refilling it a few times each day, it’s a great alkalizing pitcher. There is a 64oz size, however, the filter efficiency and cost per cup costs become murkier. May people also knock it for its bulky design, which can take up space in the fridge. That said, if you’re looking for a quick source of alkaline water, it’s hard to beat this best water filter pitchers.
Best Non-Plastic Pitcher: pH Vitality Alkaline Water Pitcher
If you’re someone who avoids plastic in their everyday life, you’ll appreciate the pH Vitality Alkaline Water Pitcher. This steel pitcher is eco-friendly and even better for your body! Not only does it effectively filter and purify water, it also alkalizes it. The unique filter system is comprised of a mush fabric bag filled with filter media, which is placed into the pitcher before it’s filled with water. In just 5-15 minutes, the water is purified and alkalized! Best of all, the filter bag lasts about 105 gallons—1,700 cups of water!
This pitcher is effective for removing chloride and heavy metals, but unfortunately that’s about it. It’s not designed for VOCs or pesticides, industrial solvents or organic compounds. This is really a pitch for people who want alkalized water and who may have an issue with lead or magnesium in their potable water supply. That said, the metal construction means you’ll get years of use out of it.
Make Every Cup Count
When you open your fridge for a refreshingly cold glass of water, you shouldn’t find water bottles looking back at you. Instead, you should be reaching for a pitcher that’s actively filtering your water and providing crisp, clean, healthy water with every pour. Consider any of the above pitchers depending on what factors and features are most important to you. Whichever one you choose, you’ll get the peace of mind in knowing your water is getting the treatment it deserves, and every cup you drink is better for you than any water bottle could give you.