The Best Faucet Water Filters in 2024 Tested and Reviewed
Don’t like the faintly chemical taste of your tap water? Or does your water system – like millions of households in the U.S. today – draw from a household well? A faucet-mount water filter is a cheap, convenient way to refresh the flavor of your water, as well as ensure that it’s safe to drink.
These compact filters attach directly to your kitchen faucet and remove common contaminants to deliver fresh, crisp water on demand. Installation takes just minutes, and most models let you easily switch between filtered and unfiltered water with the flip of a lever. You can buy a good one for quite cheap, and each replaceable filter core will last for months, making this a far more affordable option than thousand-dollar whole-house systems. And you bet it’s more environmentally friendly than buying bottled water!
Here are our top picks of the best faucet-mount water systems.
While newer brands like Waterdrop offer significantly better scorings on paper, we still chose the PUR FM2500V as our Editor’s Pick due to its blend of proven reliability and excellent value. The filter offers great filtering performance for the price, and being one of the most well-known names in the industry, it’s easy for us to recommend the PUR FM2500V right out of the gate.
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PUR Faucet Water Filter (FM2500V)
Editor’s Pick
While newer brands like Waterdrop offer significantly better scorings on paper, we still chose the PUR FM2500V as our Editor’s Pick due to its blend of proven reliability and excellent value. The filter offers great filtering performance for the price, and being one of the most well-known names in the industry, it’s easy for us to recommend the PUR FM2500V right out of the gate.
Things We Like
- Excellent chlorine filtering ability
- Easy installation and servicing with "one-click" system
- Lightweight and compact design
- A filter change indicator
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 PUR FM2500V shines at contaminant removal. It was able to cleanse all traces of chlorinated water when tested and also demonstrated strong lead-filtering performance when we pitched it against lead-infested water. The only complaint we have is the slow filtering flow rate, managing just 0.44 gallons per minute (GPM) in our testing.
A PUR's "Mineral Core" filter cartridge comes with the filter. Other than filtering water, it’ll also replenish the water with natural minerals, making it tastier.
A highlight of the FM2500V’s design is the "one-click" installation system. Rather than swiveling the filter into place on your faucet’s head, there’s an adapter for you to install on your faucet. Then, the filter housing itself simply clicks into place and anchors itself on the adapter using a receptacle. Removing the filter is as simple as pressing a latch. The new design makes it very intuitive to change out the filters, but it’s rather flimsy (and leaked quite a lot!)
The PUR FM2500V also comes with an indicator light to tell you when exactly you need to swap out your filter. The battery in the indicator lasts 2-3 years.
Filter cartridges hold 100 gallons and should be replaced every 2-3 months.
Read our full PUR Faucet Water Filter (FM2500V) in-depth review
Best Overall: Waterdrop WD-FC-06
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
Runner-up: Waterdrop WD-FC-01
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
Best for Ease of Installation: PUR FM2500V Faucet Water Filter
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.
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.
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 Shouldit 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 Shouldit’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
