Richard Arconti Our experts researched and tested the best under sink water filter on the market. My top pick for 2023 is the Clearly Filtered 3-Stage Filter based on filtration performance, filter life, contaminant removal, and price.
Best Under Sink Water Filter
- Best Overall: Clearly Filtered 3-Stage Water Filter System Learn More
- Runner Up: Waterdrop Under Sink Water Filter System Learn More
- Best Value: Aquasana AQ-5200 2 Stage Water Filter Learn More
- Best Innovation: FrizzLife Under Sink Water Filter System Learn More
- Best Made in USA: Epic Smart Shield Water Filter Learn More
- Best for PFAS: Hydroviv Under Sink Water Filter Learn More
- Best for Chlorine: iSpring RCC7AK Learn More
- Best 3M Under Sink Filter: Filtrete Quick Change Water Filter Learn More
- Best For City Water: CuZn UC-200 Learn More
- Best For Well Water: APEC Water Systems ROES-PH75 Learn More
- Best Budget Filter: APEC WFS-1000 Learn More
Reviews Of The Best Under Sink Water Filters
1. Clearly Filtered 3-Stage Under Sink Water Filter System Review
If you are looking for an elite filtration option, look no further than the Clearly Filtered 3-Stage Under Sink Water Filter System. With an ability to remove over 232 contaminants from your drinking water, Clearly Filtered sets itself apart. Unlike many filtration options, the Clearly Filtered Under Sink Filter is able to target and remove 90.7% of fluoride and 98.9% of lead. But not only does it remove contaminants, it also retains the healthy minerals your body requires like magnesium and potassium.
Every system includes three replaceable filters that utilize Clearly Filtered’s propriety Affinity Filtration Technology. The filters have an impressive life of 2000 gallons so most users only need to change them once a year. And when it is time to replace them, the twist-on twist-off design makes the filter changing process take only a few seconds.
The Clearly Filtered Under Sink Water Filter System was designed for easy installation. It’s compatible with any sink and is a 15 minute DIY job that anyone can handle. Simply connect the included stainless steel hoses to your cold water line and you are off and running – no power tools required. The entire Clearly Filtered Under Sink system is only 3” deep x 15” wide x 15.4” high so it can be conveniently mounted under any sink without taking up much valuable space.
Overall, the Clearly Filtered Under Sink Water Filtration System is the best under sink option. They are Independently tested by accredited labs to NSF / ANSI and EPA standards to guarantee unparalleled effectiveness. The system is made in the United States with a limited lifetime warranty, and a 30 day money back trial.
Pros:
- Removes 232+ contaminants
- Long filter life of 2000 gallons
- Independently tested to EPA, NSF/ANSI standards
- No wasted water like with RO systems
- Easy installation in 15 minutes
Cons:
- Need to replace filters about once a year (but can save by getting a filter subscription!)
2. Waterdrop Direct Connect Undersink Water Filtration System Review
The innovative Waterdrop Direct Connect Undersink Water Filtration System uses multistage filtration to reduce chlorine, heavy metals, chemicals, and large sediment particles. At the same time, the filter system also retains healthy minerals such as potassium, calcium, sodium, and magnesium.
The Waterdrop filter has been certified against NSF/ANSI standards to effectively reduce chlorine, tastes, and odors in your drinking water. Additionally, the Waterdrop utilizes BPA-free materials to ensure the purest filtered water for your home.
If you are using the Waterdrop Under Sink Filter System with municipal water, the filter will last for 8,000 – 19,000 gallons depending on which model you choose. When it’s time to replace, filters are easily switched out in seconds with the twist-and-lock design.
Best of all, you won’t have to worry about flow rate reduction with the Waterdrop Undersink Water Filter. The system has a tested full flow rate of 0.75 gpm at 60 psi.
Installation for the Waterdrop Under SInk Water Filter System was designed for easy DIY. From start to finish should take less than 10 minutes. Since the filter is only 12.3” tall, it’s easy to find room under your sink to mount it. The system is compatible with all ½” and ⅜” female threaded connectors for your cold water line.
Overall, the easy install and compact design make the Waterdrop Under Sink Filter perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, apartments, and even RVs. The system is also backed by a full one year manufacturer warranty.
Pros:
- Excellent multi-stage filtration performance
- Ultra long filter life of up to 19,000 gallons
- Certified against NSF/ANSI standards
- Easy installation in under 10 minutes
Cons:
- Requires replacement filters
3. Aquasana AQ-5200 2 Stage Water Filter Review
Aquasana AQ-5200 2 Stage Water Filter Review: Best Budget Under Sink Water Filter
Aquasana is a recognized brand in the water filtration space, so much so that the company has produced a trendy line of whole-house, under-the-sink, shower, and countertop water filtration systems.
The AQ-5200 2 Stage water filter by Aquasana is built with claryum superior technology. Tested to ensure the activated carbon filtered will reduce organic chemicals like herbicides, pesticides, and VOCs. Proprietary catalytic carbon to target chlorine and unique ion-exchange filters to tackle heavy metals like lead and mercury.
The AQ-5200 offers pure water filtration at 0.5 gallons per minute (GPM). The entire system is NSF certified to meet all water filtration standards. Your first purchase includes all filters and parts required and DIY installation a snap. And fresh-tasting, pure water will flow from a stylish metal faucet included in your purchase.
Using the latest technology and forward-thinking, environmentally-friendly innovation, the AQ-5200 is an intelligent system designed to reduce plastic waste by minimizing all the disposable plastic parts found in competitor brands.
The Aquasana AQ-5200 is small, but mighty, weighing a mere 0.8 ounces and measuring 8.25” W x 4.25” D x 9” H. It’s truly the best budget under sink water filter.
Warranty: 6-months / 500 gallons
To watch the Aquasana AQ-5200 2 Stage Water Filter Review on YouTube, click here.
Pros:
- Removes up to 99% of 77 contaminants
- No drop in water pressure to your faucet
- Includes stylish metal faucet
Cons:
- Customer service can be slow to respond
- Requires replacement filters every 6 months
4. Frizzlife Under Sink Water Filter System Review
Frizzlife Under Sink Water Filter System Review: Best Under Sink Water Filter for Lead Removal
In a hurry to get great-tasting filtered water? With the Frizzlife Under Sink Water Filter System, a 2-stage filtration system is designed for lightning-fast fast installation. A quick twist-in design initiates the filtering, and pure water flows from the faucet within 3 minutes, even with filter cartridge replacements.
A unique auto shut-off feature is so intuitive that it not only turns off at the optimal filtration point, but also shuts off if you disconnect the filter cartridge when you need to replace it or perform light maintenance.
Frizzlife takes sustainability and money savings seriously, too! Only the core filter cartridge needs to be changed and discarded, and that means the plastic housing and parts stay under the sink and don’t end up in the landfill.
Installation is worry-free, as well. Whether the cold water intake valve under the sink is 3/8″ or 1/2″ Frizzlife is compatible with your kitchen faucet. Frizzlife is a multipurpose water filtration system and is a fantastic solution for an ice maker.
The Frizzlife under sink water filter system is super-lightweight at only 4.2 pounds and measures 13″ H x 5″ W x 5″ D.
Warranty: 3-year warranty with product registration.
To watch the Frizzlife Under Sink Water Filter System Review on YouTube, click here.
Pros:
- Removes over 58 contaminants
- Install in minutes; no plumbing required
- Unique built-in shut-off valve
Cons:
- Difficult to remove the outer housing
- Plastic screw connectors may break overtime
5. Epic Smart Shield Water Filter Review
Epic Smart Shield Water Filter Review: Best Under Sink Water Filter for Well Water
Solid carbon block technology allows water to take a slower pass, which means more contact time with the filter. Activated coconut carbon block filters don’t clog and remove more contaminants than their granular-activated carbon counterparts. And best of all, there are no worries regarding mold or mildew since the unit is bacteriostatic.
All these filtering features, plus a 12+ month filter life, make Epic Shield the best under sink water filter for well water.
What makes this Epic Smart Shield Water Filter, “epic”? You don’t need a plumber because the system is 100% DIY installation. No holes to drill; just a screwdriver and a wrench are needed. And if under-the-sink isn’t where you need a water filtration system, hook up the Epic Smart Shield to your refrigerator for perfect ice cubes and refreshing cold water from the dispenser.
Put the pitcher down. Epic Smart Shield water filter has 15 times the industry-leading gravity-based water filter pitcher’s capacity and can remove up to 70 or more contaminants of that same pitcher.
Weighing only 5 pounds and measuring 7” H x 2” D x 3.15” W, it’s a convenient option in a small space.
Warranty: 100% lifetime warranty + no hassles guaranteed.
To watch the Epic Smart Shield Water Filter Review on YouTube, click here.
Pros:
- Third-party certified to 3 different NSF/ANSI water filtration standards
- Helps remove chlorine, chemicals, trace pharmaceuticals, and metals
- Filters your home’s water at pennies-per-gallon
Cons:
- Limited customer support
- Expenses to purchase additional parts not included
6. Hydroviv Under Sink Water Filter Review
Do you want an undersink filter that is customized for your specific location’s water quality? That is exactly what Hydroviv Water Filter Systems offer – when your order is placed, the shipping zip code is used to create a filtration system that is optimized for your city’s water conditions. This means you are guaranteed to get the best tasting water straight from the tap.
The Hydroviv Under Sink Water Filters carry NSF certifications and are independently tested to remove hundreds of contaminants including: arsenic, lead, chromium 6, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), chlorine, industrial chemicals, and many more. The filters have a long life of 6 months where you can subscribe to save 25% and have them automatically shipped to your door.
Easy to install, the Hydroviv connects to any faucet’s standard ⅜” cold water line. The installation is a DIY process that takes about 15 minutes. And since the system is 6 inches wide by 14 inches high, it can be easily mounted under your sink without getting in the way.
Hydroviv Under Sink Water Filters come with a 30-day, money-back guarantee and the housings and hardware come with a 5-year warranty.
Pros:
- Customized filtration system for your city’s water
- Filters hundreds of contaminants
- Independently NSF certified
- Easy installation takes 15 minutes
Cons:
- Need to replace filters every 6 months (but can save by getting a filter subscription)
7. iSpring RCC7AK Under Sink Water Filter
iSpring RCC7AK Review: Best Under Sink Water Filter Reverse Osmosis
If you’re looking to purchase and install the best under sink water filter with Reverse Osmosis, certified to NSF/ANSI 58 standards with a 6-stage alkaline remineralization layered filtration system, then look no further than the iSpring RCC7AK.
The exclusive design restores the natural alkalinity of your home’s water and provides the perfect mineral balance. iSpring under sink water filtration systems are reliable, ultra-safe Reverse Osmosis (RO) powerhouses that produce pure, healthy drinking water. If you want up to 99% of over 1,000 harmful contaminants filtered out, the RCC7AK is your best bet!
How would your home or RV benefit from the iSpring? The additional 6-stage alkaline remineralization filter restores healthy minerals, balances alkalinity, and overall provides a more natural taste than a standard 5-stage reverse osmosis water filtration system.
The 1st-stage lets you see the filtration in action. Three extra long-life pre-filters remove large contaminants, and an ultra-fine RO filter removes impurities down to 0.0001 microns. The result is delicious tasting, finely filtered bottled water quality every time you open the tap.
The iSpring RCC7AK under sink water filtration system weighs only 20 pounds and measures 15” H x 8” D x 18” W.
Warranty: 30-day money-back guarantee, plus a 1-year manufacturer warranty and lifetime tech support.
To watch the iSpring RCC7AK Review on YouTube, click here.
Pros:
- DIY installation fits under any standard-sized sink
- Ultra-fine filter removes contaminants down to 0.0001 microns
- European-Style brushed nickel kitchen faucet included
Cons:
- Inferior materials caused leakage, water pressure issues
- Questionable water quality
- Highly difficult installation
8. Filtrete Advanced Under Sink Quick Change Water Filtration System
Filtrete Advanced Under Sink Quick Change Water Filtration System Review: Best 3M Under Sink Water Filter
The Filtrete Advanced Under Sink Quick Change Water Filtration System offers fully flowing, clean, clear, fresh, healthy filtered water at 2.25 gallons per minute (GPM) and a super-simple 3-step installation. Trusted quick-change, quarter-turn, 3M filter reduces that awful chlorine taste and odor, and eliminates sand, sediment, soil, even rust for 6 months.
It is NSF 53 & 42 standard tested and certified by a renowned independent certification organization. You don’t need a dedicated faucet with the Filtrete Advanced, which means within 30 minutes, you’ll have an easy connection to the kitchen, bath, or any other faucet in the home where you want fresh filtered water.
Installation is as easy as: attaching the faucet water supply hose to the quick connect output, then connecting the water supply hose to the quick-connect input. And finally, attaching the filter with the easy 1/4 turn installation & turning on water.
At only 3.09 pounds and measuring 4” D x 6.8” W x 14” H, you can even take the Filtrete on the road in your RV or boat.
The Filtrete Advanced Under Sink Quick Change Water Filtration System is recommended to be replaced every six months.
To watch the Filtrete Advanced Under Sink Quick Change Water Filtration System Review on YouTube, click here.
Pros:
- Filter change reminder via email subscription / phone app
- Practically invisible under the sink
- Fills 8 16oz glasses of water per day / 4 12-cup coffee pots per week
Cons:
- Pitcher systems may be more efficient at filtering water
- Water flow can be reduced to an “espresso trickle”
- 6-month filter lifespan may be closer to 2 months
9. CuZn UC-200
CuZn UC-200 Review: Best Quality Under Sink Water Filter
If you’re considering the CuZn UC-200, remember this: CuZn filters only city water, never private well water. The UC-200 is all water purifier and not a water softener. So, don’t expect the tea kettle to stay nice and shiny because it can’t take on stubborn hard water limescale mineral deposits.
But, the UC-200 is the best quality under sink water filter because it’s so simple to install. All you must do is connect it to the main cold-water line under the kitchen sink. No drilling, no unrecognizable hardware, no mess, no holes in the countertop!
If you suddenly discover a non-Standard plumbing connection or have any installation issues or CuZn tech support is ready to assist. CuZn even includes every additional adapter – just in case – and that means no unnecessary trips to the hardware store.
3-stage micro filtration includes KDF-55 and coconut shell carbon filters to ensure you get all the purity and minerals you expect in every glass of water. Extra filtration means the UC-200 is bacteriostatic and resists mold and bacteria.
CuZn measures 4.5” D x 4.5” W x 15” H and weighs just under 8 pounds.
Warranty: Prorated 5-year warranty filter replacement, no questions asked!
To watch the CuZn UC-200 Review on YouTube, click here.
Pros:
- Guaranteed long-lasting filter life, up to 5 years
- Almost no impact on water flow
- Exemplary customer service
Cons:
- Poor filtration, traces of sediment, unpleasant taste
- Efficient water filtration only in the first four weeks of use
- Pitcher filtration preferred in side-by-side taste tests with the CuZn
10. APEC Water Systems ROES-PH75
APEC Water Systems ROES-PH75 Review: Best Under Sink Water Filter System
To say the APEC Water Systems ROES-PH75 is the best under sink water filter system is an understatement. Boasting a whopping 6-stage filtration system, supreme quality design, manufacturing, and assembly, APEC can deliver 75 gallons per day (GPD), removes up to 99% of contaminants, and is compatible with water pressures between 40-85 pounds per square inch (PSI). All of this equates to the purest, freshest, filtered water.
APEC’s alkaline filters and double carbon block filters treat both tap and well water equally. They provide unlimited clean drinking water, get a stamp of approval, and are recognized by the Water Quality Association (WQA) as a certified water filtration system.
The APEC ROES-PH75 arrives with all the parts you need for an easy DIY installation, and APEC ensures installation success by providing industry-best instructions.
A brushed nickel, lead-free designer faucet accompanies your APEC, and all tubing is food-grade, so only the freshest, purest filtered water flows at the source. APEC filtration systems are leak-free with quick connect fittings.
APEC ROES-PH75 system measures 16” W x 5.25” D x 17.5” H. The additional filtration water storage tank measures 11” W x 11” D x 15” H, and the entire system weighs 27 pounds.
Warranty: Register the APEC ROES-PH75 for an extended 2-year warranty.
To watch the APEC Water Systems ROES-PH75 Review on YouTube, click here.
Pros:
- America’s #1 rated water filter brand
- Double carbon blocks for chlorine/chemical removal
- Noise-free and dependable filtration
Cons:
- 2.5 hour installation (professional recommended)
- Cosmetic changes to the countertop plus plumbing
- Produces excesses water waste during purification
11. APEC WFS-1000
APEC WFS-1000 Review: Best Under Sink Water Filter for Hard Water
APEC’s innovation doesn’t stop at just one design. The APEC WFS-1000 water filtration system isn’t just the best under sink filter for hard water issues; it also offers high-quality filtration, is guaranteed to remove chemicals, taste, and nasty odors, and can handle 2-85 open flow psi.
Suppose you want unlimited filtered water from a company that stands by its products backed by a certified WQA water specialist based in CA. In that case, APEC WFS-1000 is the 3-stage, hard water filtration system to meet your needs.
Stage 1 includes a 10” high capacity sediment filter to remove dust, particles, and rust. Stage 2 uses the unique APEC 10” carbon-block filter to remove chlorine, bad tastes and odors, cloudiness, and VOCs. Finally, Stage 3, the final 10” premium carbon block filter, works to remove everything leftover that the Stage 2 filter misses!
APEC WFS-1000 measures 6” D x 15” H x 12” W and weighs only 14 pounds. Perfect fit for under the sink or the family room wet bar!
Warranty: 1-year satisfaction guarantee, with lifetime support.
To watch the APEC WFS-1000 Review on YouTube, click here.
Pros:
- System includes a lead-free chrome faucet
- APEC lifetime customer and product support
- Excellent filtration against hard water scaling
Cons:
- Home tap water preferred versus APEC’s disappointing water quality
- Sediment may appear after flowing water for extended time
- Persistent cloudiness and hard water deposits after 2 months of use
2023 Buyers Guide to the Best Under Sink Water Filters
Nearly everyone wants a water filter in their homes, but the water filter pitchers take up space in the fridge and countertop water filters can be an eyesore. Under sink water filters are a great solution, but come with their concerns. Typically, they’re pricier and require filter replacements, but in the end they’re totally worth it.
Having narrowed your water purification option down to an under sink water filter is a great place to be in the purchase process. However, there are other aspects to take into consideration. The lifespan of the system, installation, and water pressure are major things to delve into before buying.
Key Considerations For Choosing An Under Sink Water Filter
Filter Lifespan
When you’re purchasing an under sink water filter system, you’re making a down payment towards the real cost of the water filter. Because these systems require filter replacement, you’ll regularly purchase the product for the system itself. Keep this in mind. If you buy a less expensive system that will need replacing in 2 years and new filters every four months, you end up spending more than a more expensive system which lasts for ten years and only needs filters replaced every three years. The anticipated lifespan of a product is important in the decision-making process. Each of the products listed in these reviews is well-known for a long lifespan. That way, in the long run, you aren’t spending more money to replace an entire system.
Installation
Installation is either pain or a breeze. There seems to be no middle ground when it comes to under sink water filter systems. The concept is exceptionally straightforward, but for many who attempt it, the process goes wrong. By far, under sink water filter systems that attach to your cold-water line is easier for beginners. Usually, they’re also more comfortable with not having to install another faucet. If you’re new to water filter systems and are anxious about installing another faucet, look at some of the in-line filters. Always check your system before purchasing to ensure it comes with everything you need. One of the primary factors that led to the Whirlpool review here is that it was so difficult to acquire everything necessary to install the system.
Water Pressure
The last thing you want is to finish installing the system and see your glass slowly fill because you’re only getting a dribble. It’s aggravating and if you don’t have good water pressure something is probably wrong. There are many under sink water filter options that have great water pressure. Keep in mind that if your water pressure is too high, it’s probably not spending enough time running through the filter. There is a sweet spot for water pressure. Water should run from the filter steadily and fill a large glass in a few seconds. Many of these companies offer support services. Take advantage of these offerings if you’re noticing any issues with water pressure. They may help you in identifying a loose fitting or missing component attributing to the problem.
Final Thoughts on Buying an Under Sink Water Filter
More people are becoming aware of the dangers of plastic and bottled water, with growing concerns for a more sustainable future.
Pure, filtered, clean, safe water should be a priority. Among the many water filtration systems on the market, only under sink water filters rapidly push clean, fresh, safe, filtered water into the home. Competitive pitcher and faucet filtration systems rely on gravity and need lots of time.
Suppose you want to ditch the habit of purchasing bottled water from the big box stores and end the waiting all day for water to drip through a filter. Under sink water filters can provide the right fit for a consistent, reliable water filter system to bring fresh, pure water flowing into your home, office, apartment, or RV.
Google Trends data shows that 70% of all consumers looking to purchase a whole house water filtration system searched online for an under sink water filtration system. 20% searched for a faucet filtration system, while 10% searched for a pitcher filtration system.
Of these consumers, two-thirds choosing a filtration system for their home rely on municipal water while the other third searched for well water filtration systems for hard water. No matter the source, interest in under-the-sink water filtration systems is on the rise for durability and long-lasting core filtration reliability.
Whether you need to filter hard water, well water, or city municipal water, you have to know a thing or two before selecting the right water filtration system for your home. First, get your water tested by a professional. Know what you’re up against because not all filters are equal. Some water filtration systems have many filtration stages, while others use a 2-stage carbon block filtration system.
Second, understand the water flow into the house or the pounds per square inch (psi). Avoid cracking or leaks; the filtration system must be compatible with the force of water flowing in from the source.
Finally, get yourself an under-the-sink water filter system and toast to clean drinking water!
