Richard Arconti 
Our experts researched and reviewed the 5 best stainless steel gravity water filter systems. The top pick for 2023 is the ProOne Big+ Water Filter System. We’ll explain how a gravity filter works to remove up to 99.9% of harmful contaminants from your water supply so you can find the ideal solution for your needs.
Quick Comparison Of Our Favorites
Eliminates 99% of harmful microbiological viruses
Built with thick 304 AISI stainless steel
Large 3-gallon capacity
Includes non-slip stand and stainless steel spigot
Removes 98% of fluorine and 98.95% residual chlorine
Includes a water liquid-level spigot and a stand
Stainless steel gravity water filter systems are the latest must-have trend because they’re easy to set up, portable, and can reduce chlorine, fluoride, heavy metals, bacteria, and other contaminants from any water source [1].
If you’re in the market for a gravity filter, it’s important to consider these key factors: water flow rate, capacity, filtration for your specific water contaminants, long-term maintenance cost, and warranty. We’ll cover all these items and more in our guide at the bottom.
But with all the options out there, it can be easy to get lost in an ocean of information. That’s where we come in! After thousands of water filter reviews and with the help of our water treatment expert panel, we meticulously select only the best filtration options so you don’t have to spend time guessing.
We based our selections on price, performance, durability, and customer satisfaction to come up with options that are best for certain uses so you can find the ideal fit.
Best Gravity Water Filter System
- Best Overall: Big Berkey Water Filter System Learn More
- Runner Up: Alexapure Pro Stainless Steel Water Filtration System Learn More
- Best NSF Certified: ProOne Big+ Gravity Water Filtration System Learn More
- Best Value: Waterdrop King Tank Gravity Water Filter System Learn More
- Best Ceramic Filter: Doulton Gravity Water Filter System Learn More
Stainless Steel Gravity Water Filter System Reviews For 2023
Filtration Type: Carbon Block | Filter Life: 3,000 Gallons | Flow Rate: 1GPH | Warranty: Lifetime | Dimensions: 21 x 8.5 inches | Capacity: 2.25 Gallons | NSF Certified: No
Looking for a water filter that can keep your whole family hydrated, without taking up a lot of space? Meet the Big Berkey—your perfect solution. This 2.25 gallon unit is ideal for families of up to four people and is a great addition to any kitchen countertop, or for camping, or in RVs. Plus, because it is gravity fed and requires no electricity, it’s an ideal filter system to have on hand for emergency preparedness.
The beauty of the Big Berkey Water Filter system lies in its simplicity. Add water from nearly any fresh water source in the top chamber: home tap water, lake water, river water – and you will end up with pure drinkable water. Once water flows through the filters, the purified water is retained in the bottom chamber where it is easily dispensed through the BPA-free spigot.
The included Black Berkey filters have been tested in both State and EPA accredited laboratories to exceed NSF/ANSI Standard 53 so you can have peace of mind that no matter what your water source is, the end result is safe pure drinking water.
According to the test results, Big Berkey can remove up to 200+ water contaminants, including 99.9% pathogenic bacteria, harmful viruses, and heavy metals. The Black Berkey Filters have an incredible lifetime use of 6,000 gallons per pair, which is more than three years of purified water supply.
Related Video: Watch Full Big Berkey Water Filter System Review
The Alexapure Pro Stainless Steel Water Filtration System removes up to 99.999% of 200+ water impurities like fluoride and lead, making it one of the most effective gravity filters on the market.
With a water capacity of 2.25 gallons, Alexapure Pro can transform water from nearly any fresh source into fresh drinking water. The all-new gravity block core with hybrid ceramic shell sets this system apart from the competition. There’s no need to purchase multiple costly filters to stack, and the best part is the filters have an impressive 5,000 gallon life before replacing.
Since The Alexapure Pro requires no electricity, it’s an ideal filter for both home use or off-grid. The durable brushed stainless steel design fits with any decor and is scratch resistant compared to other polished stainless steel options.
The kit only takes a few minutes to assemble. Included is one certified Alexapure gravity block filter, a non-slip black rubber base ring, a spigot assembly, and a knob. Whether you are using it at home or in an emergency situation, you can trust the Alexapure Pro Stainless Steel Water Filtration System to provide you with the cleanest water possible.
The ProOne Big+ Gravity Water Filtration System uses cutting-edge G2.0 gravity filter technology to bring you clean drinking water free of harmful heavy metals including lead, bacteria, fluoride, VOC’s and over 200 more contaminants, while also leaving healthy calcium-rich minerals behind, which improves water taste.
This 3 gallon countertop gravity filter is not restricted to just home use, the durable 304 stainless steel design makes it a perfect addition for any camping trip, emergency preparedness kit, or kitchen. Since there’s no electricity or plumbing required, as long as you have potable water, you can have clean water just about anywhere.
All filters carry NSF/ANSI-42 certification and have been tested by an independent lab according to NSF standards, so you can rest assured that your water is being filtered to the highest quality standards.
Filters are infused with silver, which helps prevent unwanted contaminant growth without compromising taste or quality, leaving you worry-free when it comes time for another change. Each filter provides up to 6 months worth of clean drinking water before needing replacement.
The ProOne Big+ kit also includes a stainless steel spigot and non-slip stainless steel rack, your choice of up to 3 filter elements, and a one year warranty.
The Waterdrop 2.25-gallon King Tank Gravity Water Filter System offers durability and dependability on any outdoor adventure without compromising quality or taste. It’s made of 304 food grade stainless steel and is tough enough to withstand 220 pounds worth of weight, so you can take it anywhere you go.
One of the unique features we like with the King Tank Gravity Water Filter System is it includes a liquid-level spigot so you can easily view your water level, unlike other gravity filters, with which you need to constantly open the top lid to check the water level. The spigot itself is made with lead free metal and as an added bonus, this system includes a non-slip stand.
The Waterdrop comes with two filtration options – either two black carbon filters, or you can get the package with both two black carbon filters and two ceramic fluoride filters. The black filter elements are made up of four stage natural coconut activated carbon to reduce a variety of harmful substances, including 98% of fluorine and 98.95% of residual chlorine with a life of 6,000 gallons per pair.
While the fluoride filter is designed for city water contaminants and has a life of 1,000 gallons per pair. So if you’re looking for a high-quality gravity water filter that can make a big difference in the quality of your water under every scenario, the Waterdrop 2.25-gallon King Tank Gravity Water Filter System is the best bang for the buck.
The Doulton gravity water filter is a must-have for those who want clean drinking water anywhere, anytime. It’s easy to use and can be taken with you on vacation or camping because it doesn’t require electricity. Just add water from any source into the top chamber and let the water flow through the filter candles into the bottom reservoir before dispensing into your glasses or bottles without worry of harmful contaminants.
With it’s 2.25 gallon capacity, the Doulton Gravity Water Filter System comes with four DOULTON-W9121214 ceramic filter candles, which improve taste and remove 99.99% of sediment contamination, water-borne diseases, and toxic chemicals such as chlorine, lead, asbestos, or mercury. Due to its unique ceramic filtration functionality, it also maintains essential minerals such as calcium and magnesium, which may be lost through other types of filtration methods.
Unlike other filter systems that need to be replaced, the DOULTON-W9121214 ceramic filter candles can be cleaned and reused multiple times, making this an economical and eco-friendly choice. The candle filters have a filter life of 6 months but can be cleaned to extend this period and value.
The body is made from premium polished stainless steel, meaning it has enhanced antibacterial properties to keep your water free of harmful contaminants without leaching into your water.
Gravity Water Filter System Buyer’s Guide: Key Factors
There is no one size fits all solution when it comes to gravity water filtration solutions. Different systems are better suited for different circumstances. When you are deciding on which is the best solution, there are key decision-making factors you need to know. We put together this guide to help you through the process.
What Is A Gravity Water Filter System?
It’s believed that the first gravity filters date back to the 18th century from John Doulton when the first ceramic filters were made with clay. From then throughout the 20th century, this style of filtration has become increasingly popular.
The gravity-fed systems are an easy and affordable way to remove impurities from any water supply. These days they are typically used to filter tap water at home or for emergency preparedness. They are highly durable and built for long-term use so you can move the system around without worrying about damage.
How Do Gravity Water Filter Systems Work?
Gravity filters work by feeding water into the top of the system. The top reservoir has filter elements mounted to it for water filtration. As the top tank is filled with water, gravity forces the water through the filter elements into the bottom reservoir.
These systems are unique in that you can fill them with any water source, including tap water, lakes, rivers, and streams. As the water passes through the carbon filters, contaminants like dirt, lead, bacteria, cysts, pesticides, and more are trapped in the filter so that only the purest water remains [2].
The filtered water is then stored in the bottom reservoir until dispensed through the spigot at the bottom of the system. Since they are gravity operated, they require no electricity to function.
What Are The Benefits Of A Gravity Water Filter System?
A gravity water filter system is a great way to purify water. The main benefit of using one of these systems is that it does not require any electricity to operate. All you need is a water source and a place to collect the purified water to get started. Here’s a look at the benefits of using one:
Emergency Preparedness
A gravity water purifier can be a lifesaver in an emergency where there is a shortage of clean water or no power supply. Gravity water filters can clean large quantities of water at once, which makes them perfect for camping or emergencies. In addition to its lightweight features, you can place and assemble it on any surface without any complicated setup.
Can Use Water From Any Source
You can feed your stainless steel gravity water filter from any water source, whether tap water, lake water, or river water. The filter elements are designed to remove a wide range of contaminants, including bacteria, viruses, and protozoa that can be found in tap water, lakes, or rivers. In addition, gravity filter systems can be used to improve the taste and smell of unclean water.
Easy Setup
Gravity filters do not require any plumbing or electrical work, so you can install them easily in less than 5 minutes. They are also cost-effective, so you do not need expensive filters that cost thousands of dollars—you just need to replace some filters once every six months or depending on how often you use them.
Minimal Maintenance
Gravity water filter systems have little or no maintenance. This means that you don’t have to worry about changing out filters or replacing the tank, which can be expensive and time-consuming. With a gravity water filter, you only need to fill up the tank with water and it will do the rest.
Multiple Sizes To Choose From
Most gravity water filter systems have multiple size options to choose from in order to accommodate different needs. For example, some models have a larger capacity than others, making them better suited for large families or groups. Additionally, flow rate is an important consideration when choosing a gravity water filter system. Some models have a higher flow rate than others, meaning they can filter water more quickly. Ultimately, the best gravity water filter system for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
What To Look For When Purchasing A Gravity Filter
If you are looking to buy a gravity fed water filter system, there are a few things that you should keep in mind before you make your purchase. In order to get the most out of your purchase, make sure you know when it was manufactured and how much volume it can hold before deciding whether or not it’s right for you.
Capacity
First, think about how much water you need to be filtered. If your home has an average of 3–4 people, a standard gravity filter system with 2.25 – 3 gallons will be sufficient. If you have a large home with more people, you may want to consider purchasing a larger system. The more gallons of water you use at once, the more frequently you need to filter your water.
Water Flow Rate
The flow rate determines how much water can be filtered in a given period. For most families, a flow rate of 1-2 gallons per hour is sufficient. If you have a large family or expect to use a lot of filtered water, you may want to choose a system with a higher flow rate.
If you require a higher flow rate in gravity-fed systems, you can add additional filter elements to increase the filtration speed. Adding more elements allows more water to flow through the system faster.
Filter Effectiveness
Different types of gravity fed water filter systems are designed to remove different types of contaminants, so it is important to choose one that’s designed to remove the specific contaminants that are present in your water supply. The most effective systems use a combination of filters, such as carbon, ceramic, or ones with NSF certifications, to remove as many contaminants as possible.
Also, note that the type of filter elements can be different between the models. For example, ProOne and Doulton use ceramic filter candles, while the rest in this list use carbon block filters. Ceramic filters are very effective at removing bacteria, cysts, and some viruses [2]. The downside is they are more fragile.
Filter Element Lifespan
When factoring in total cost, it is important to understand how long each filter will last. A pair of Black Berkey elements will last 6,000 gallons. While a Doulton ceramic filter is recommended to be changed every 6 months. Also, consider if the filter is able to be cleaned and reused to extend its life.
Portability
Consider what you will be using the system for and what size will be best suited. If you need a smaller option, the Travel Berkey might be ideal with its 1.5 gallon capacity. However, if you do not plan on moving the system around, a larger capacity option is a good idea. If you plan to use your gravity filter purifier while camping or hiking, you will need to make sure that it is easy to transport. The weight and size of the unit are both important considerations.
Extras Included
Some gravity filter sets will include more than others. The Waterdrop system comes with a stand, metal spigot, and water-level viewing glass. In contrast, others may not include any of those extras and might include only a plastic spigot.
Warranty
Finally, you should make sure that the system you choose is backed by a good warranty. This will ensure that you can get a replacement if anything goes wrong with your purchase. Many of the options in our list do indeed come with a lifetime warranty. By taking the time to carefully consider all of these factors, you can be sure to choose the best gravity-fed water filter system that meets all of your needs.
FAQs For Best Stainless Steel Gravity Water Filter System
Can the stainless steel gravity filters soften water?
No, these filters will not help to soften water. They are intended for contaminant removal, and many are designed to retain healthy minerals, which is what causes hard water.
Do gravity-fed filters change the pH of my water?
The pH of the water may change depending on the source water fed into your system. If the water is very contaminated, the pH level may increase to a more acidic level. In general, the pH level should not be too effected by the filtration process with either carbon or ceramic filters.
How do I know when to change my filter?
If you are unsure if your filter is still working properly, one way to check is with a red dye test. This is where you add red food coloring to your source water and feed it through your system to see if there is a detectible amount of red dye that makes it through the filters in your water.
Why Trust Freshnss?
Ricky is the founder of Freshnss and product reviewer specializing in water filtration, home, and kitchen products. For this review, he spoke with our water review board of experts. And also with our network of industry professionals who offered stainless steel gravity water filter recommendations and the qualities that made them stand out from the competition. Next, he researched today’s best gravity water filters, considering dozens of options from various merchants and retailers. The selected products stood out based on filtration performance, durability, water flow rate, warranties, and overall value. He has read thousands of user reviews, and written hundreds of product reviews. He has also tested and re-tested some of our top picks, and looked for filtration companies for new home water treatment options worth trying.
Articles Sources
Freshnss uses only the highest-quality sources to support the facts used in our articles including: government organizations, independent studies, peer-reviewed journals, and lab testing results. Read our editorial review guidelines here to learn more about how we verify and fact-check our writing to keep our content reliable, accurate, and trustworthy.
- An Evaluation of Activated Carbon for Drinking Water Treatment, National Institutes Of Health (NIH)
- The Ins And Outs Of Carbon Block Filters, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
- Ceramic Filters, Center For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
