I Tested 12 Water Filter Pitchers and Dispensers and Found Four Smooth Operators

It might surprise non-residents to learn that New York City, a place with an officially appointed rat czar, is blessed with pristine drinking water. It flows in from the Catskills/Delaware system and arrives with a neutral taste and a silky smooth texture—my local consumer confidence report boasts that it’s “the Champagne of tap water.” Unfortunately, the quality of the water source isn’t the only factor that influences what ends up in your glass. Water has to travel through pipes and may be stored in reservoirs before it reaches your home.

If you’re concerned about water quality, checking your local consumer water supply report is a good place to start. The Environmental Protection Agency requires that water suppliers publish an annual Consumer Confidence Report. You can also use a home kit to test your tap water for lead or other contaminants—many cities provide free kits for assessing water quality. 

There are two main reasons to filter your tap water: to remove contaminants or to improve the taste (which some coffee aficionados will tell you makes a real difference when brewing your morning cuppa—read more about that here). Understanding your goal will help you make the best decision when purchasing a filtration system. If you’re concerned about specific contaminants, you’ll need a filter certified to remove them. You have more options if you’re simply hoping to improve the taste. If you have a full household that drinks a lot of water, you might prefer a dispenser model with a large capacity. Pitchers hold less water but are better suited for placing on the table during meals. I tested and researched 12 at-home water filter pitchers and dispensers to help simplify sorting through certifications and to find ones that dispensed water smoothly.

The Winners, at a Glance

The Best Water Filter Pitcher

LifeStraw Home Water Filter Pitcher

$50 $42 at Amazon $55 $10 at Walmart $65 at Crate & Barrel

The LifeStraw pitcher is both functional and beautiful. Its filter is NSF-certified for lead, chlorine, and mercury reduction, just to name a few. The design sets this product apart, with a tall slender body and smooth pouring lip. While many other pitchers I tested are strictly utilitarian, this elegant pitcher would look at home on the table during a fancy dinner party. 

The Best Splurge Water Filter Pitcher

LARQ 8-Cup Water Filtered Pitcher

$99 $79 at Amazon

The LARQ pitcher is made of high-quality BPA-free plastic. This material is pleasantly heavy and resisted scratches during testing. The LARQ pitcher was easy to fill and is NSF- and ANSI-certified to reduce lead, chlorine, and PFAs.  

The Best Water Filter Dispenser

Brita XL Water Filter Dispenser

$38 at Amazon $33 at Walmart $50 at Target

The Brita UltraMax Large water dispenser holds 27 cups of water—enough to keep a family hydrated without constant refills. This model’s streamlined shape fits nicely in the fridge and the flat, smooth sides are easy to wipe clean. Built-in handles make transferring the basin from the sink to the fridge a little simpler. 

The Best Extra Large Water Filter Dispenser

Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser

$33 at Amazon $33 at Walmart $33 at Target

The PUR PLUS dispenser’s generous capacity makes it a great choice for hydration enthusiasts and families. This model features comfy handles for easy transportation and a smooth, cushy dispenser tab that clicks into place easily. Its slim design should fit neatly in most refrigerators.  

The Tests

• Flow Rate Test: I calculated the flow rate of each pitcher or dispenser by timing how long it took to pour out four cups of water. 
• Fridge Fit Test: I placed each pitcher/dispenser in the fridge, noting how difficult they were to transport and how much storage space they required. 
• Filtration Blind Taste Test: I conducted a blind taste test to assess the impact of filtration on water flavor. With the help of a friend, I compared the taste profile of the filtered water from each pitcher/dispenser to tap water and bottled water, noting any differences. 
• Usability and Cleaning Tests: I used each device to pour one cup of water into two glasses, noting any splashes or difficulties. After testing I cleaned each device according to the manufacturer's instructions, checking for any chips or scratches. 

What We Learned

Look for Certifications 

Not all filters are the same, and some may capture certain contaminants better than others. If you’re concerned about a specific element, such as lead, look for a pitcher that has been independently tested and certified for lead removal by a trusted agency. The New York State Department of Health recommends the NSF, UL, and Water Quality Association as trusted certifying bodies.

All of the pitchers and dispensers filter water by passing it from a reservoir at the top of the device through a filter and into a basin. (These are called gravity models.) This pitcher style typically uses activated carbon (charcoal) filters that attract chemicals. Carbon filters effectively remove certain elements, such as chlorine, but they cannot remove bacteria. Chlorine, which is commonly added to tap water to kill germs, is often the culprit behind unpleasant flavors. Activated charcoal filters can remove this chemical and help improve water’s taste. Gravity filters are generally less powerful than pressurized reverse osmosis systems (which are installed under the sink). 

Dispensers and Pitchers Should Be Easy to Refill

Water filter pitchers and dispensers see a decent amount of action. They need to be filled, refilled, plopped in the fridge, and repeatedly handled. The right design elements make these otherwise tedious tasks easier. My favorite pitchers and dispensers, namely the Brita UltraMax and LifeStraw, can be filled from the sink without removing the lid; instead, they have a slide top that stays open for hands-free filling. Other models, including the LARQ 8-Cup Water Filter Pitcher and the Waterdrop Lucid 10-Cup, featured trapdoor-style portals that open under the weight of running water. Although they were easy to use, they required running water over the exterior of the pitcher, which can be a little splashy and may not be sanitary. The PUR PLUS 30-Cup Water Filter Dispenser and AmazonBasics 10-Cup Water Pitcher require you to remove the entire lid each time you refill. 

Material quality also affects the refilling process. Brittle plastic models like the Brita Denali Water Pitcher With Elite Filter and the Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher With Elite Filter chipped and scratched easily when handled.  

Straight Sides Are Organization-Friendly 

The majority of pitchers and dispensers that I tested featured straight walls that fit nicely on a refrigerator shelf next to other items. The Pur 10-Cup Pitcher was a notable exception—this large, cylindrical pitcher took up more than its fair share of fridge space. The ZeroWater 10-Cup Ready-Pour 5-Stage Water Filter Pitcher also presented some storage challenges. Although it’s narrow, its ridges and overhangs increased its overall footprint without increasing capacity. In general, the dispenser models made good use of space—these slim, rectangular vessels use tall straight walls to offer maximum capacity and it’s easy to stack products next to them. Admittedly, the Lifestraw, one of my favorites, is cylindrical. Even though it can’t tessellate neatly with cartons or containers, it has a small base and tall walls that maximize its storage capacity without hogging the shelf. 

Dispensers Vs. Pitchers

If you’re in a hurry, pitchers are the way to go. During the flow rate test, all of the pitcher models poured four cups of water much more quickly than the dispensers. Dispensers, on the other hand, provided an easier glass-filling experience. Pouring water from a pitcher is a two-handed process—one to hold the pitcher, one to stabilize the glass. Dispensers don’t need to be held (they’re designed to rest on refrigerator shelves). Except for the Waterdrop Slim Water Filter Dispenser, all of the dispensers included tabs that could lock into place. This made it possible to fill a glass of water quickly with one hand. 

The Criteria: What to Look for in a Water Filter Pitcher or Dispenser

The best water filtration devices are made from durable materials and use independently certified filters. Consider your household hydration needs and look for a pitcher that holds enough water to last a few days. For easy access, choose a model that can be refilled without removing the lid. I also preferred pitchers and dispensers that were quick to pour/dispense from. 

Our Favorite Water Filter Pitchers and Dispensers

The Best Water Filter Pitcher

LifeStraw Home Water Filter Pitcher

$50 $42 at Amazon $55 $10 at Walmart $65 at Crate & Barrel

What we liked: The LifeStraw carbon filter boasts a variety of independent certifications from NSF, as well as WQA and ANSI-accredited laboratories. It’s proven to remove lead, mercury, and chlorine to improve water safety and flavor. The LifeStraw is equipped with two filters—a carbon filter and a membrane microfilter—giving it the power to remove bacteria as well as dissolved solids. This pitcher has a tight-fitting lid and pours water smoothly. It can be refilled through a flap without removing the top. This elegant pitcher doubles as a lovely way to present water on the table. It’s available in several colors and materials, including a glass model. 

What we didn’t like: This tall pitcher may be difficult to fit on smaller refrigerator shelves. The dark plastic body sustained a few visible scratches during testing. 

Key Specs

• Capacity: 7 cups
• Dimensions: 6.44 x 14.44 x 9.44 inches
• Replacement filter cost: $14
• Filter capacity: 40 gallons
• Certifications: Meets US EPA & NSF P231 drinking water standards for the removal of bacteria and parasites

The Best Splurge Water Filter Pitcher

LARQ 8-Cup Water Filtered Pitcher

$99 $79 at Amazon

What we liked: The LARQ pitcher’s straight sides and rounded edges stack neatly against other items in the fridge. This model is designed with an open handle that is easy to grab and hold for transportation or pouring. The plastic body resisted scratching during testing and feels unlikely to chip. 

What we didn’t like: With a subscription price of $26 ($33 without a subscription), these were the most expensive replacement filters I tested.

Key Specs

• Capacity: 8 cups
• Dimensions: 9 x 5.5 x 10 inches
• Replacement filter cost $26 with a subscription, $33 standard
• Filter capacity: 60 gallons
• Certifications: Certified for the improvement of taste and odor under NSF/ANSI standards 42, 53, and 401

The Best Water Filter Dispenser

Brita XL Water Filter Dispenser

$38 at Amazon $33 at Walmart $50 at Target

What we liked: The Brita UltraMax holds up to 27 cups of water—enough to hydrate the whole family. Built-in handles and a hinged top make refilling easier. This dispenser’s narrow design and smooth, straight sides streamline storage and simplify cleanup. The dispenser tap was easy to use and can click into place for hands-free dispensing. I did not observe any unwelcoming dripping from the spigot during testing. 

What we didn’t like: The dispenser nozzle is a little short—the entire device needs to be very close to the edge of a shelf to accommodate a glass. The plastic body is slightly brittle and may chip over time.

Key Specs

• Capacity: 27 cups
• Dimensions: 14.37 x 5.67 x 10.47 inches
• Replacement filter cost $15 
• Filter capacity: 40 gallons
• Certifications: Certified for the improvement of taste and odor under NSF/ANSI Standard 42

The Best Extra Large Water Filter Dispenser

Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser

$33 at Amazon $33 at Walmart $33 at Target

What we liked: The PUR PLUS dispenser delivers maximum capacity without taking up additional fridge space. Its slim body fits neatly onto shelves, leaving plenty of room for storage containers or other items to line up next to its straight sides. This was one of the only dishwasher-safe models—an easy solution for an occasional deep clean. The PUR PLUS offers affordable filter replacements with NFS certifications. 

What we didn’t like: This is one of the only models that requires completely removing the lid to refill the dispenser, which was slightly annoying but not a dealbreaker. 

Key Specs

• Capacity: 30 cups
• Dimensions: 15.3 x 5.3 x 10.1 inches
• Replacement filter cost $25 for 3 
• Filter capacity: 40 gallons
• Certifications: NSF certified to reduce microplastics found in tap and bottled water.

The Competition

• Brita Denali Water Pitcher With Elite Filter: This was a solid pitcher with several certifications and space-saving straight sides. However, this model lost points because the lightweight plastic scratched easily.   
• Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher With Elite Filter: This pitcher is made from brittle plastic and breaks easily. It arrived chipped and sustained additional scratches during the testing process.
• ZeroWater 10-Cup Ready-Pour 5-Stage Water Filter Pitcher: This pitcher performed well in the taste test but its ridged design wasted space and complicated cleanup. 
• Waterdrop 200-Gallon Long-Life Lucid 10-Cup Water Filter Pitcher: I liked this model’s durable, scratch-resistant material. A slightly splashy pour and expensive filters kept it from claiming a top spot. 
• AmazonBasics 10-Cup Water. This lightweight, brittle pitcher imparted a faint plasticky taste to filtered water. 
• Waterdrop Slim Water Filter Dispenser A solid device with a well-designed angled basin that dispenses every last drop of water, this model lost points because the plastic dispensing nozzle felt cheap and brittle. 
• ZeroWater 22-Cup Water Filter Dispenser. During testing, water leaked around the edge of the filter and didn't pass through it. 
• Pur 10-Cup pitcher: This model pours and filters nicely but its bulbous design hogs space in the refrigerator compared to straight-sided alternatives.  

FAQs

How does a pitcher water filter work?

Water filter pitchers use gravity to pass tap water through a carbon filtration system that removes certain impurities. They’re typically built with a reservoir at the top, a filter, and a basin. Unfiltered water is poured into the reservoir, gravity pulls it through the filter, and it’s stored in the pitcher basin until it’s consumed. 

How can I find out what is in my tap water? 

The EPA requires that local water suppliers publish a Consumer Confidence Report every year. Check your local report to learn about the minerals and contaminants found in public drinking water at treatment facilities. Water can sometimes pick up impurities after it leaves a facility if it passes through damaged or lead pipes. You can test your home tap with a water quality kit to determine exactly what’s in your H2O.  

Will a pitcher water filter get rid of contaminants like PFAS? 

A report from the Minnesota Department of Health shows that carbon filters, like those used in gravity-powered pitchers, can effectively reduce PFAs when used properly. Changing your filter frequently will ensure its efficacy. Compared to carbon filters, pressurized reverse osmosis filters remove a greater percentage of contaminants.  

Do pitchers/dispensers filter out bacteria?

The majority of home water filter pitchers use activated carbon filters to remove contaminants. These filters remove dissolved solids and chlorine, but they have not been proven to remove bacteria or germs. Some evidence suggests that eliminating chlorine without removing bacteria creates an environment where the bacteria can breed easily.

What's the best faucet water filter?

When we tested faucet-mounted water filters, we chose two winners: the Brita Faucet Mount Water Filtration System and the Culligan FM-25 Faucet-Mount Advanced Water Filtration System. You can read our full review here.

Why We’re the Experts

• Madeline Muzzi is a freelance writer, editor, and video producer.
• She has written many reviews for Serious Eats, including wine decanters, mini mortar and pestles, and countertop ice makers.
• For this review, Madeline tested 12 water filter pitchers and dispensers to find ones that were easy to use and had a variety of meaningful certifications.