The Best Faucet Water Filters in 2023 Tested and Reviewed
We have tested some of the most popular faucet-mount water filter units in our lab. This review round-up will show you the best faucet-mount water filtration options for 2023!
While the US water system is among the safest in the world, plain tap water is still disliked by many people due to taste and odor concerns from disinfectants like chlorine. Instead of buying bottled water or investing thousands in a whole-house water filtration system, try a faucet-mount water filter!
These compact filters attach to your faucet, giving you fresh and crisp water right out of the tap by removing any contaminant lurking within your pipe. Usually costing no more than $100, they’re a much more affordable option than whole-house systems and are more sustainable than buying cases of bottled water every few weeks. See our full report here.
How We Test
In the current iteration of the performance test, we evaluated each filter in two ways: chlorine filtering efficiency and filtering flow rate (i.e., how much filtered water it can output per minute.)
In our chlorine test, to assess its filtering ability, we challenge the filter with highly chlorinated water containing 10 mg/l of chlorine, significantly surpassing the US household water system limit, or Maximum Residual Disinfectant Level (MRDL), of 4 mg/l. We subsequently test the filtered water with a specialized kit, requiring the filter to entirely remove chlorine (get the level down to 0 mg/l) to get a perfect score in this section.
In the filtering flow rate test, we measure how much filtered water the unit can produce in 20 seconds. We take measurements using a measuring cup, a timer, and a weighing scale.
While we look at the filter's performance, we also evaluate its design and ease of use. An ideal filter must have a strong, durable construction with no noticeable design or manufacturing flaws. It should also be easy to use and install.
If you want to know more, check out our detailed How We Test and Score Our Faucet-Mount Water Filters!
How We Picked
We select our picks based on comprehensive testing results. Models that excel in our testing methodology have a greater chance of being featured on our list. Our methodology evaluates all aspects of the product, including performance, design, and distinctive features compared to other products in class to assist you in making an informed purchasing decision.
Our Top Picks
We recently received and tested a large batch of faucet-mount water filters in our lab. Here are the ones that showed the most promise.
1. Best Overall: Waterdrop WD-FC-06
Our Rating See all our test results ↗
- Performance (50%)9.4
- Design (20%)9.1
- Usability (30%)10.0
Things We Like
- Excellent chlorine filtration efficiency.
- High filtering flow rate.
- Unique design and installation system.
- Replacement filters are readily available.
Things We Don’t Like
- While unique, the installation system is hard to figure out.
Waterdrop is a fairly new brand and already stacks up well next to established names like PUR or Brita. The company has done an excellent job designing the Waterdrop WD-FC-06, which isn’t just one of the best-looking filters in our database, but also the finest performer in all our tests.
In our tests, the WD-FC-06 demonstrated exceptional chlorine filtering capabilities. When pitched against chlorinated water with a concentration exceeding 10 mg/l, it effectively removed nearly all traces of the chemical, leaving water with a near-zero chlorine reading.
To achieve this filtering performance, the WD-FC-06 uses activated carbon in its filter cartridge. With a maximum capacity of 320 gallons of water before replacement, it’ll be able to last you for months before you have to switch it out for a replacement.
This filter also excelled in the flow rate test, achieving approximately 1.3 gallons per minute (GPM) on a high-pressure 2.2 GPM-rated tap. This rapid filtration speed easily sets it apart from the rest of the competition, with most having much lower speed.
The WD-FC-06's stainless steel construction gives it a sleek and luxurious appearance, seamlessly blending into any kitchen decor. We have no complaints about the build quality, either. Every detail is well-crafted with no discernible flaws.
Read our full Waterdrop WD-FC-06 in-depth review
2. Runner-up: Waterdrop WD-FC-01
Our Rating See all our test results ↗
- Performance (50%)9.2
- Design (20%)9.1
- Usability (30%)10.0
Things We Like
- Excellent filtering flow rate (1.29 GPM).
- Great build quality using food-grade plastic.
- The routing valve is solid and easy to use.
- Built-in filter life indicator.
Things We Don’t Like
- Unique but finicky installation system.
- Plastic construction makes long-term durability a concern.
- The battery for the indicator light can’t be changed.
Among the tap-mounted water filters we’ve assessed, the only one that measures up to the WD-FC-06’s level of performance is its sibling, the WD-FC-01. This model, made from plastic, is slightly cheaper than the stainless steel design of the WD-FC-06. However, it’s still nearly as capable.
In our test, there’s still room for improvement in the Waterdrop WD-FC-01's performance. When it's pitched against highly-chlorinated water, the filter only managed to reduce the chlorine concentration to around 0.5 mg/l. This doesn’t quite meet our expectations with this model, but fortunately, the concentration isn’t high enough for it to be a problem.
The WD-FC-01 excels in the flow rate test, however, making it the second-best performer in this category. After 20 seconds, the WD-FC-01 produced 1,631 milliliters (0.43 gallons) of clean water. This equates to about 1.29 gallons per minute (GPM) in filtering mode.
With a sleek two-piece white plastic housing, the WD-FC-01 is quite a looker. You’ll have to do some assembly when you first unpacked the filter. The filter compartment and the mounting piece via a twist-lock joint. Then, you can anchor the filter to the faucet through a mounting port and secured with a retention ring. When it’s properly installed, the bulk of the filter is positioned vertically along the faucet, so it won’t get in the way when you use the filter.
Similar to the WD-FC-06, the WD-FC-01 has an activated carbon filter, which explains its high filtration rate against chlorine. The filter also contains a “Mineral Core” to improve taste. It should last for around three months of typical usage.
Read our full Waterdrop WD-FC-01 in-depth review
3. Best for Ease of Installation: PUR FM2500V Faucet Water Filter
Our Rating See all our test results ↗
- Performance (50%)6.8
- Design (20%)7.8
- Usability (30%)9.4
Things We Like
- Excellent chlorine filtering ability
- Easy installation and servicing with "one-click" system
- Lightweight and compact design
- Filter change indicator to help keep track of the filter’s health
Things We Don’t Like
- Low flow rate in filtering mode
- Weak grip on faucet due to the one-click system
- Flimsy routing valve’s handle
- The plastic construction can be problematic for long-term durability
- The battery for the indicator light can’t be changed.
The PUR FM2500V's performance is a mixed bag. It shines in chlorine removal, achieving a perfect score by reducing high chlorine levels from over 10 mg/l to nearly 0 mg/l. However, it falters in the flow rate test, managing just 0.44 gallons per minute (GPM).
The FM2500V offers an easy "one-click" installation system, allowing you to attach the filter to the faucet via an adapter. Removing it is also simple with two latches. However, our reviewers are concerned about the filter's long-term durability, considering how the housing is built from lightweight plastic.
A special feature of the PUR FM2500V is the indicator light. It flashes when water flows through the filter and changes color to tell you when it's time for a replacement. The battery in the indicator lasts 2-3 years and can't be changed. After that, you'll either need to monitor filter life yourself or buy a new unit altogether.
Inside, the FM2500V uses PUR's "Mineral Core" filter cartridge, which uses a combination of activated carbon and ion exchange materials for filtering. The filter also replenishes the water with natural minerals, making it tastier.
Filter cartridges hold 100 gallons and should be replaced every 2-3 months.
Read our full PUR FM2500V Faucet Water Filter in-depth review
The Competition
- Brita Basic Faucet Water Filter: Brita, a renowned brand in water filtration, maintains its reputation with the affordable Brita Basic filter. It efficiently removes almost all chlorine from water despite not having premium build quality.
- Culligan FM-25: While the Culligan FM-25 may not be as well-known as Brita, it excels in chlorine filtration in our tests. Consumers appreciate its efficiency, affordability, and stylish chrome-plated housing.
- Wingsol WS-FM001: The lesser-known Wingsol WS-FM001 faucet filter, while not from a famous brand, effectively removed chlorine in our test despite some build quality concerns.
Things to Consider When Buying a Faucet Filter
Picking the right faucet-mounted kitchen water filter for your kitchen can be pretty complicated. You’ll have to pay attention to a number of things. First, focus on its filtering performance by checking the manufacturer's info on what contaminants it removes, like chlorine, lead, or bacteria. Seek filters independently tested by reputable organizations like NSF International for extra confidence.
Next, consider the filter cartridge's capacity, indicating how long it lasts before needing replacement. You’ll also have to pay attention to the filter's build quality for durability, too.
For more details on choosing the right faucet water filter, explore our in-depth guide!
Our Expertise
Matthew Lee has been a reviewer for HealthyKitchen101 for over two years. Before becoming an editorial board member, he was a prolific tech-centric blogger, with a publication history for the International Business Times.
He has handled many reviewing projects in that time, from small kitchen appliances like waffle makers and faucets to bigger-ticket items such as showerheads and water softeners.
One of his projects was testing and reviewing faucet-mount water filters with HealthyKitchen101’s Research, Testing, and Review (RTR) Lab. The team has spent more than 100 hours testing and sampling the quality of water produced by eight of the top faucet-mount filters on the market. Each filter was rigorously tested against chlorine and underwent several test sessions each, aiming to find the top product.
FAQ
Faucet water filters ensure safe, odorless water by removing contaminants. They provide quick access to clean tap water, reducing the reliance on bottled water. For more serious water problems, consider heavy-duty systems like countertops or under-sink filters.
You can learn more about the benefits of owning a water faucet filter in this article!
Despite their compact size, faucet filter cartridges can be highly effective at removing various contaminants, primarily chlorine, impacting water taste and odor. Some models also handle lead and are certified to combat heavy metals and minimize bacterial and viral risks as well.
Explore our detailed article for a comprehensive list of what your faucet filter can handle!
References
- https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water/national-primary-drinking-water-regulations ‒ National Primary Drinking Water Regulations
About your guide
Matthew Lee is a writer and editor for HealthyKitchen101. With over 8 years working for various outlets and agencies, specializing in tech review and other subjects of note, such as current affairs.
Luna Regina is an accomplished writer and author who dedicates her career to empowering home cooks and making cooking effortless for everyone. She is the founder of HealthyKitchen101.com and HealthyRecipes101.com, where she works with her team to develop easy, nutritious recipes and help aspiring cooks choose the right kitchen appliances.
Lap is Head of the Research, Testing, and Review Team (RTR Team) at HealthyKitchen101.com, where he directs and supervises the testing of kitchen gadgets and appliances.
