When it comes to whole house water filter systems, two brands have dominated the market: Kind Water Systems and SpringWell. For many years, these top manufacturers have created different water filtration products to provide cleaner and healthier drinking water throughout the entire home.
But both companies go about it in slightly different ways, so this review will compare and contrast Kind Water Systems Vs SpringWell to see which option is the best fit for your needs.
Kind Water Systems Vs SpringWell Comparison
- Whole House Water Filter System
- Whole House Water Softener Systems
- Whole House Water Filter And Softener Combo
Whole House Water Filtration Systems
Kind and SpringWell both have whole house water filtration offerings. The primary difference between the two is the form factor. SpringWell focuses on tank-based systems, whereas Kind focuses exclusively on cartridge-based systems.
Kind Water Systems
Kind offers one cartridge-based whole house water filter option that works for homes with up to 6 bathrooms:
Flow Rate (GPM) | # Of Bathrooms | Dimensions | |
Kind E-1000 | 15 GPM | 1 – 6 | 25¼” (H) x 15½” (W) x 8″ (D) |
SpringWell Water Filtration
SpringWell offers a whole house water filter system that comes in three different configurations depending on home size and water use requirements:
Flow Rate (GPM) | # Of Bathrooms | Dimensions | |
SpringWell CF1 | 9 GPM | 1 – 3 | 52″ (H) x 9″ (W) |
SpringWell CF4 | 12 GPM | 4 – 6 | 58″ (H) x 10″ (W) |
SpringWell CF+ | 20 GPM | 7+ | 58″ (H) x 13″ (W) |
SpringWell also offers a whole house well water filter that comes in two different configurations. If you have private well water as a source, you should consider these models:
Flow Rate (GPM) | # Of Bathrooms | Dimensions | |
SpringWell WS1 | 12 GPM | 1 – 3 | 64″ (H) x 10″ (W) |
SpringWell WS4 | 20 GPM | 4+ | 64″ (H) x 13″ (W) |
Comparison Table
Filtration System Comparison
Kind E-1000
The Kind system is designed and built in the USA using NSF-certified components. Their E-1000 whole house filter contains a sediment filter and coconut shell carbon filter in their two-stage water filtration system.
This process removes hundreds of common contaminants found in municipal water sources while ensuring a flow rate of up to 15 GPM for a consistent water supply in up to 6 bathrooms. The 5-micron pre-sediment filter removes large debris, sand, and silt. While the high-performance catalytic activated coconut shell carbon block filter targets harmful chemicals like chloramine and chloramine.

Additionally, if you live in an area with bacteria or boil advisory issues, you can pair the Kind with a UV purifier. This will ensure all microorganisms in your drinking water are eliminated.
Watch Kind E-1000 Review Video
SpringWell CF
The SpringWell CF1 whole house water filter is one of the best in the market when it comes to its filtration media. Using its proprietary 4-stage ActivFlo filtration system, this water filter allows for more contact between the water and filtration media to increase its effectiveness in removing harmful water impurities.
SpringWell’s 4-stage filtration process begins with water pushing through a KDF media that removes harmful chemicals like chlorine and other common contaminants. Stage 2 uses a catalytic carbon media to remove organic contaminants, pesticides, herbicides and VOCs. While stage 3 utilizes a carbon flex bed for more contact time with the filter media and to reduce channeling. In the final stage, water flows through a 5-micron sediment filter to remove silt, sand, clay and other sediment.

Similarly to the Kind, the SpringWell CF can be paired with its UV light purifier to destroy microorganisms in the water supply. This is important because bacteria are not removed via carbon filters.
Watch SpringWell CF1 Water Filter Review Video
SpringWell Well Water Filter
If you get your water from a private well, the SpringWell well water filter system is designed to be an economical solution. This water filter uses SpringWell’s air injection oxidizing (AIO) system that can get rid of common contaminants in well water including up to 7 PPM iron, 8 PPM hydrogen sulfide, and 1 PPM manganese.

What makes the SpringWell well water filter system unique is that its filter media doesn’t require any maintenance. Once the Bluetooth control head is set up, the regeneration process is automated and can be controlled right from your smartphone.
Watch SpringWell Well Water Filter Review Video
What Contaminants Are Removed?
Kind E-1000
The Kind whole house water filter uses a 2-stage cartridge system to remove common city water contaminants.
The pre-filter is able to be washed several times before replacing. This is a nice feature if you have heavily contaminated water. It is designed to protect the carbon filter and remove larger particles including dirt, silt, rust, and sand.
The catalytic carbon block filter is designed to remove hundreds of contaminants. You can check the full Kind fact sheet, but the critical contaminants removed include:
- Chlorine & Chloramine
- PFAS (PFO & PFOAS)
- Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
- Haloacetic Acids
- Heavy Metals (Lead, Arsenic, Mercury)
- Pesticides & Herbacides
SpringWell CF
The SpringWell whole house water filter uses a 4-stage process to remove up to 99.6% of city water contaminants.
- Stage One: KDF media removes chlorine, bad tastes, and odors
- Stage Two: Catalytic carbon media removes organic contaminants like PFAS, chloramine, VOCs, pesticides, pharmaceuticals, and more.
- Stage Three: Eliminates channeling and increases water contact time to remove remaining impurities
- Stage Four: Sediment filter removes silt, sand, dirt and debris
The end result is pure water without any bad tastes or smells.
SpringWell WS Well Water Filter
The SpringWell well water filter uses a proprietary greensand and air injection oxidization process to remove common well water contaminants. Most notably, the system removes:
- Iron: Up to 7 ppm
- Manganese: Up to 1 ppm
- Hydrogen Sulfide: Up to 8 ppm
- Sediment: Debris up to 100 microns
This system is intended to get rid of that rotten egg smell or brown-colored water that plagues well water.
System Performance Comparison
Kind Whole House Water Filter
The Kind E-1000 whole house filter is one of the most efficient filtration systems in the market that offers both excellent water filtration and a massive flow rate of up to 15 GPM. That’s strong enough to supply water for up to 6 bathrooms. You don’t need to worry about low water pressure even during high demand, making it suitable for families of all sizes. Furthermore, you will see a noticeable difference in your water quality immediately after installation.
SpringWell CF Whole House Water Filter
Since the SpringWell CF comes in 3 different configurations, you can choose the best fit for your home. Some whole house filters treat water flow as an afterthought, so you end up fixing one issue but creating another. No one wants a severe drop in water pressure if you have multiple appliances or showers running.
SpringWell guarantees no drop in water pressure. The CF water filter has a flow rate of between 9 – 20 GPM depending on the model. This is about 30% higher than most tank-based competitors.
Lastly, you will notice an improvement in overall water quality, taste, and smell after installing this system in just a couple of days.
SpringWell Well Water Filter
If you’re looking for a whole house filter that removes the red stain and rotten smell of water from a private well, the SpringWell Well Water WS does the job efficiently.
The system has an impressive flow rate between 12 – 20 GPM. Similar to the CF model, SpringWell guarantees no drop in water pressure with their well water filter.
What is notable about the SpringWell water filter for well water is it removes nearly the same amount of sulfur and iron. This is something most competitors are not able to do. So if you have elevated levels of these contaminants, the SpringWell WS is a perfect fit.
Installation Comparison
Kind E-1000
The simple inline design makes installation about as easy as it gets. The unit has two connections that fit most types of plumbing and you can choose whether to place it inside or outside your home.
The benefit of a cartridge-based system is they don’t require an intrusive installation process. The Kind E-1000 filtration system is delivered to you pre-assembled, so you only need to follow the instruction manual to install it into your plumbing system. For most people, it can be a DIY project that is completed in less than 90 minutes.
Best of all, the system comes with an installation kit to mount it to your wall so there are no additional costs required. And if you move, the system can easily be taken with you!
SpringWell CF
The SpringWell CF1 filtration system comes ready to be installed into your main water pipeline. The tank is already fitted with the connections that you’ll need, so you just need to read the instruction manual to know where to put the right connections.
Although it may take some time to figure out its proper installation, the CF1 can certainly be a DIY project.
SpringWell Well Water Filter
The SpringWell well water system comes with all the components that you’ll need for easy installation into your main pipeline including an electronic head, drain line, bypass valve, hose clamp and spin-down sediment filter. You just need to follow the instructions in the manual or watch the tutorial video to install this system properly.
Filter Replacement Cost And Maintenance
Kind E-1000
Because it’s a cartridge-based system, both the Kind E-1000’s carbon filter and 5-micron sediment filter need to be replaced once a year. This is much longer than the 3 – 6 months for competitors’ cartridge systems.
You can purchase the sediment and carbon block replacement filter set for $123. An added feature we like with Kind is their auto-ship where you get a 15% discount and the filters arrive at your doorstep once a year. This is especially nice so you don’t have to remember the filter life-cycle.
Although tank-based options don’t require replacing the carbon media for several years, the upside to annual changes is the Kind consistently operates at peak performance.
SpringWell CF
How long does the SpringWell CF1 filter media last? You can expect the CF1’s filter to last 10 years or 1,000,000 gallons before replacing. The replacement carbon media is available on SpringWell’s website for $334.
The sediment filter needs to be replaced every 6 to 9 months. You can purchase a 2-pack replacement kit for only $40, which is more cost-effective than the competition.
SpringWell WS
Since the SpringWell WS1 requires very little maintenance, you can expect its greensand media bed to last approximately 20 years. And when it’s time to replace the media bed, you can expect to pay roughly $350.
The spin-down sediment filter uses a mesh screen that can be washed and reused so it lasts up to 24 months. Replacements are available on SpringWell’s website for $95.
Upfront Cost For Each Model
Kind E-1000 Whole House Water Filter
Starting at $730, the Kind E-1000 is a smart investment because it’s priced competitively but checks the boxes on performance. The Kind also has a UV light purifier that can be paired with the system.
SpringWell CF Whole House Water Filter
The SpringWell CF1 filtration system costs $924, which is several hundred less than comparable tank-based options. You can add on a water softener, UV purifier, or reverse osmosis system depending on your circumstances.
SpringWell Well Water Filter
The SpringWell whole house well water filter system starts at $2,003. Because it is designed for well water, they are essentially maintenance-free, so a higher upfront cost is worth it if you have a well.
Cost Comparison Table
Here is a comparison table of all the water filter system prices. Note, they often have special discount prices, so be sure to check the latest prices on their respective websites.
Upfront Cost | Annual Filter Replacement | |
Kind E-1000 | $730 | $123 |
SpringWell CF1 | $924 | $40 |
SpringWell CF4 | $1,090 | $40 |
SpringWell CF+ | $1,579 | $40 |
SpringWell WS1 | $2,003 | $50 |
SpringWell WS4 | $2,690 | $50 |
Water Softeners And Salt-Free Conditioners
Kind Water Systems Softener
Kind offers one cartridge-based whole house salt-free water softener option that works for homes with up to 6 bathrooms:
Flow Rate (GPM) | # Of Bathrooms | Dimensions | |
Kind E-2000 | 15 GPM | 1 – 6 | 25¼” (H) x 15½” (W) x 8″ (D) |
SpringWell Water Softeners
SpringWell offers one whole house salt-free water softener model. The FutureSoft has three different configurations depending on home size and water requirements:
Flow Rate (GPM) | # Of Bathrooms | Dimensions | |
SpringWell FS1 | 12 GPM | 1 – 3 | 39″ (H) x 6″ (W) |
SpringWell FS4 | 15 GPM | 4 – 6 | 52″ (H) x 9″ (W) |
SpringWell FS+ | 20 GPM | 7+ | 58″ (H) x 13″ (W) |
SpringWell also offers a salt-based water softener that comes in three different size configurations:
Flow Rate (GPM) | # Of Bathrooms | Grain Capacity | Dimensions | |
SpringWell SS1 | 11 GPM | 1 – 3 | 32,000 | 57″ (H) x 9″ (W) |
SpringWell SS4 | 13 GPM | 4 – 6 | 48,000 | 63″ (H) x 10″ (W) |
SpringWell SS+ | 20 GPM | 7+ | 80,000 | 63″ (H) x 13″ (W) |
Comparison Table
Softener Performance Comparison
Kind E-2000
The Kind E-2000 whole house salt-free water softener is undeniably the best cartridge-based water softener that tackles hardness of up to 75 GPG while maintaining a consistent flow rate of up to 15 GPM that’s enough to supply water for up to 6 people.
This system uses two filter cartridges, a sediment filter and TAC cartridge that filters contaminants and softens the water while keeping important minerals that are good for the body. The Kind E-2000 is also more affordable than tank-based systems while offering similar efficiency.
A recent study supported this by showing salt-free water conditioners are very effective at treating problems associated with hard water.
Watch Kind E-2000 Review Video
SpringWell Futuresoft Salt-Free Water Softener
The SpringWell Futuresoft water softener is considered one of the best salt-free softeners today because of its ability to prevent up to 99.6% of scaling while maintaining a flow rate of up to 20 GPM that can supply water for up to 6 people.
This system uses the most effective salt-free water treatment method called template assisted crystallization (TAC) which tackles hardness of up to 81 GPG without producing any wastewater. Being a salt-free water softener, this system also won’t contribute any sodium to your drinking water.
Watch SpringWell FutureSoft Review Video
SpringWell Salt-Based Water Softener
Considered the most reliable ion exchange softener today, the SpringWell salt-based water softener utilizes sodium ions to prevent hard water scaling from building up in your water system and appliances.
Using ion exchange, this system runs water through a resin bed media to completely remove hard water minerals by exchanging them with sodium ions which results in soft water. This traditional process helps to solve scaling so that water can be used for washing, cooking, and drinking.
Watch SpringWell Salt Water Softener Review Video
Media Replacement Cost And Maintenance
Kind E-2000 Salt-Free Water Softener
The Kind E-2000’s five-micron pleated sediment filter needs to be replaced annually for optimum performance. You can enroll in the Kind AutoShip Program where you only need to pay $34 per year so the sediment filter, o-ring, and lube will be shipped to your door.
The e-soft conditioning cartridge theoretically never needs to be replaced because it uses a physical alteration process rather than a chemical alteration. The Kind doesn’t require any salt or electricity, making it essentially maintenance-free.
SpringWell Futuresoft Salt-Free Water Softener
The FutureSoft’s 5-micron pre-filter needs to be replaced every 6 to 9 months for maximum efficiency, and you can purchase a 2-pack of pre-filters for just $40. This includes two sediment filters, o-rings, and lube.
The SpringWell FutureSoft TAC media can last approximately 7 years or up to 1,000,000 gallons. The media is available on SpringWell’s website, or from other providers, for about $300. Unlike its salt-based counterpart, the FutureSoft does not require ongoing maintenance costs for salt, electricity, or waste water.
SpringWell Salt-Based Water Softener
The SpringWell salt-based water softener media can last up to 10 years with proper maintenance. If you need to replace the media, you can contact SpringWell or another provider and it will cost approximately $450.
The ongoing maintenance costs for salt-based softeners include salt refills and water waste. For a softener that regenerates 3 times per month, it will cost around $75 per year for water that backflushes the system. A salt based softener requires one 40 pound bag of salt per month on average, which costs around $100/year. In total, a salt water softener will cost approximately $15 per month to operate.
Upfront Cost For Each Model
Kind E-2000 Salt-Free Water Softener
The Kind E-2000 salt-free water softener costs $1,011 with a water supply capacity of up to 6 bathrooms. This is several hundred dollars less than competitors, and it’s very economical considering there are no ongoing costs or maintenance after the initial purchase.
SpringWell Futuresoft Salt-Free Water Softener
The SpringWell FutureSoft starts at $1,452 12 GMP model. Although slightly more than the Kind , it does indeed offer unmatched efficiency with up to 99.6% scale prevention. And as far as tank-based systems go, the price tag on the FutureSoft is significantly less than competing models.
SpringWell Salt-Based Water Softener
The SpringWell salt-based water softener costs $1,391 with a flow rate capacity of up to 3 bathrooms. Salt-based softeners are a little more in general because it comes with a Bluetooth control head and brine tank. You can also add a reverse osmosis system to help to remove the sodium from your drinking water.
Cost Comparison Table
Here is a comparison table of all the water softener system costs. Note, they often have special discount prices, so be sure to check the latest prices on their respective websites.
Upfront Cost | |
Kind E-2000 | $1,011 |
SpringWell FutureSoft FS1 | $1,452 |
SpringWell FutureSoft FS4 | $1,782 |
SpringWell FutureSoft FS+ | $2,416 |
SpringWell SS1 | $1,391 |
SpringWell SS4 | $1,530 |
SpringWell SS+ | $1,896 |
Whole House Water Filter And Softener Combo Systems
Kind Whole House Water Filter And Salt-Free Softener Combo
Kind offers one cartridge-based whole house water filter and salt-free water softener combo that works for homes with up to 6 bathrooms:
Flow Rate (GPM) | # Of Bathrooms | Dimensions | |
Kind E-3000 | 15 GPM | 1 – 6 | 25¼”(H) x 23¼” (W) x 8″ (D) |
SpringWell Whole House Water Filter And Softener Combos
SpringWell offers their CF whole house water filter and salt-free softener (CSF) or 2 in 1 salt-based softener combo (MMV). Both combo systems are available in different size configurations depending on number of bathrooms and water use requirements:
Flow Rate (GPM) | # Of Bathrooms | Grain Capacity | |
SpringWell CSF | 9 – 20 GPM | 1 – 7+ | N/A |
SpringWell 2 In 1 | 11 – 15 GPM | 1 – 6 | 32,000 – 80,000 |
SpringWell also offers a whole house well water filter and salt-based softener (WSSS) or salt-free softener combo (WSSF). If you have private well water as a source, you should consider these models:
Flow Rate (GPM) | # Of Bathrooms | Grain Capacity | |
SpringWell WSSS | 11 – 20 GPM | 1 – 6 | 32,000 – 80,000 |
SpringWell WSSF | 12 – 20 GPM | 1 – 6 | NA |
Comparison Table
Water Filter And Softener Combo Performance Comparison
Kind E-3000
The Kind E-3000 combines all the benefits that you’ll get from its whole house water filter and salt-free softener in one tankless system that allows you to enjoy clean, healthy and soft drinking water.
This system features a 5-micron pleated sediment filter that removes sediment and debris. Plus, a catalytic activated coconut shell carbon flock filter that removes most contaminants, and an eSoft salt-free softening cartridge that utilizes TAC to remove water hardness to make water more usable for washing, cooking and drinking.
Watch Kind E-3000 Review Video
SpringWell Water Filter And Softener Combo
The SpringWell combo system can be paired with the Futuresoft salt-free softener or the 2 in 1 system that includes a filter and salt based softener in one tank.
This CF1 filter and water softener combo definitely packs a punch because it offers you SpringWell’s KDF and catalytic carbon filtration system with its high-tech FutureSoft eco-friendly salt-free water softener to get rid of any contaminants in your water and tackle hardness.
The new 2 In1 model offers a revolutionary design. With this system, you get a salt based softener and water filter all in one tank. This saves a ton of space since a salt based softener usually requires an additional tank. The process utilizes a 3-stage water filtration process where water flows through a sediment pre-filter, a KDF media, a catalytic carbon media before going through the SpringWell ion exchange process to remove hard water minerals.
Watch SpringWell Water Filter And Softener Combo Review Video
SpringWell Well Water Filter And Softener Combo
If you have well water contamination, chances are you have iron and magnesium that are creating scale buildup.
Designed for treating well water, the SpringWell WSSS water filter and salt-based water softener combine the brand’s whole house well water treatment system and salt-based water softener to not only remove sulfur, manganese, and iron that cause bad smell and red stains on your well water. But it also treats hard water minerals that cause limescale and calcium buildup on your appliances and plumbing.
Note that if you want to pair the Well Water Filter with the FutureSoft Salt-Free Softener, you will likely need to make sure you do not have extremely high iron and sediment levels or it could foul the media.
Watch SpringWell Well Water Filter And Softener Combo Review Video
Filter Replacement Cost And Maintenance
Kind E-3000
The Kind E-3000 whole house water filter and salt-free softener require annual maintenance. The pre-sediment filter and carbon block filter replacement set cost $123. An added feature with Kind is their auto-ship where you get a 15% discount and the filters arrive at your doorstep once a year. This is nice so you don’t have to keep track of the filter life-cycle.
The e-soft media never needs to be replaced since it uses a physical alteration process instead of chemical alteration. The E-3000 doesn’t use any salt, waste water, or electricity, making it essentially maintenance-free.
SpringWell Water Filter And Softener Combo
The CSF1 5-micron sediment pre-filter needs to be replaced every 6 to 9 months for maximum efficiency. You can purchase a 2-pack of filters for only $40 and that already includes two sediment filters, o-rings and lube. The carbon media in the CF will last 10 years and is available on SpringWell’s website for $334.
Other than that, the FutureSoft TAC media can last for about 7 years before replacing. You can purchase the media refill from SpringWell for around $300.
If you go with the 2-In-1 salt based combo, the media in that system can last up to 10 years before replacing. This will cost about $450 for replacement media. And with the salt-based system, you of course need to factor in ongoing salt and water usage which costs approximately $15 per month.
SpringWell Well Water Filter And Softener Combo
Since the SpringWell well water filter requires very little maintenance, you can expect its greensand media bed to last around 20 years. When it’s time to replace the media bed, it will cost roughly $350.
The spin-down sediment filter uses a mesh screen that can be rinsed and reused so it lasts up to 2 years. Replacements are available on SpringWell’s website for $95.
The SpringWell salt water softener media can last up to 10 years if maintained properly. When it’s time to replace the media, you can contact SpringWell or another provider and it will cost approximately $450.
Upfront Cost For Each Model
Kind E-3000
The Kind E-3000 whole house water filter and salt-free softener starts at $1,504. You can add their UV purification light and the full system price is $2,486.
SpringWell Water Filter And Softener Combo
The SpringWell water filter and salt-free softener combo starts at $2,311 for the 3 bathroom model. The 2 In 1 combo has a priced tag of $2,011.
SpringWell Well Water Filter And Softener Combo
The SpringWell well water filter and salt-based softener combo starts at $3,002 for the 3 bathroom model. Salt based well water combos run a little higher since you get two tanks and a brine tank in the system.
The well water filter and salt-free softener combo start at $3,309.
Cost Comparison Table
Here is a comparison table for all the whole house water filter and softener combo prices. The price ranges are due to the different size options available. Note, they often have special discount prices, so be sure to check the latest prices on their respective websites.
Upfront Cost | |
Kind E-3000 | $1,504 – $2,486 |
SpringWell Filter & Salt-Free Softener | $2,311 – $3,956 |
SpringWell Filter & Salt-Based Softener | $2,196 – $3,386 |
SpringWell 2 In 1 Combo | $2,011 – $2,492 |
SpringWell Well Filter & Salt-Based Softener | $3,002 – $4,015 |
SpringWell Well Filter & Salt-Free Softener | $3,309 – $4,273 |
Kind Water Systems Vs SpringWell: Who Wins?
Comparing Kind to SpringWell was a difficult task because they go about their filtration systems in different methods. Kind’s focus is on cartridge based systems, while SpringWell utilizes tank-based systems.
If you have well water, the SpringWell well water systems are your best best. As of now, Kind does not offer well water systems.
As far as city water, that is a little closer call. While Kind prices its products competitively, the systems require annual filter changes that can add up over time. However, this also means your filters are consistently operating at peak performance. SpringWell on the other hand, offers multiple configurations so you can get a tailored fit for your specific needs.
Overall, the hope of this guide is to provide data on popular SpringWell and Kind models so you can align the specifications to your situation and budget. We’ve recommended both brands in our top-rated buyer’s guides multiple times so you won’t go wrong with either.
If you have questions as you contemplate which option will work best for your home, don’t be afraid to drop us a comment!
FAQs SpringWell Vs Kind Water Systems
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Why Trust Freshnss?
Ricky is the founder of Freshnss and product reviewer specializing in water filtration, home, and kitchen products. For this guide, he worked with our water review board of experts. And also with our network of industry professionals who offered provided insights on Kind Vs Springwell water filtration system. Next, he researched today’s best whole house water filters and softeners, considering dozens of options from various merchants and retailers. We reviewed these systems based on price, performance, warranty, and NSF certification. 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.