We Tested 4 Faucet Water Filters—Two Produced Fresh, Clean Water

The importance of having access to clean, filtered water in everyday kitchens can make all the difference. While most tap water is safe to imbibe, whatever chemicals are used to clean it (cough chlorine cough) can affect its flavor. Not only can a glass of water taste bleh, but it can also actually negatively impact the taste of tea and coffee.

This is why we set out to find the best faucet filter by testing four popular models. We examined how easy they were to install and use, the effectiveness of the filter, how much replacement filters cost, and what certifications they had.

The Winners, at a Glance

The Best Faucet Water Filter

Brita Faucet Mount Water Filtration System

$33 $31 at Amazon $24 $23 at Walmart $22 at Home Depot

The Brita is a solid all-around choice. This particular filter had the second fastest flow rate, was lightweight and sleek in appearance, and included a button that changes colors depending on how close the filter is to expiration. It also boasted the longest time between filter changes in our lineup.  

Another Great Faucet Water Filter

Culligan FM-25 Faucet-Mount Advanced Water Filtration System

$45 at Amazon

The Culligan impressed us with its speedy flow rate and sleek look. It's a reasonably-priced option that's simple to install, if a bit tricky to master while in use (to activate the filter, a pin must be pulled out mid-stream). Replacement filters are affordable, last for up to 200 gallons, and are easy to find online.

The Different Kinds of Water Filters

While it can be easy to recognize why you may want to filter water, choosing a filter type and model can be unduly complicated. Here are the general types and how they work:

• Faucet Filters: For those looking for filtered water every time they use the kitchen sink, a faucet filter is a great option. These filters can be attached directly to the faucet itself, providing the opportunity to switch between unfiltered and filtered water.
• Water Filter Pitchers: Water filter pitchers generally consist of a few components, including a water basin, a lid that doubles as a water reservoir (to hold the filtering water), and a filter that releases water into the basin. Pitchers are great options for portability, or if you like your water chilled, since you can pop them into the fridge. Unfortunately, each pitcher is limited by its size, so repeated refills are needed.
• Reverse Osmosis Filter: A reverse osmosis can be connected directly to the sink’s water source. According to the folks over at Culligan it “is typically a multistage process that includes pushing the water through a specialized, semipermeable membrane as well as other types of filters. The end result is cleaner water for drinking, cooking, and other uses.” This style of filter is often more expensive and requires a more involved installation process. 

What Certifications Mean

Faucet filters often promise to filter out unsavory ingredients such as lead, chlorine, cadmium, and mercury from water. It’s important to make sure this is true. The authorities on water quality are the Water Quality Association (WQA), the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF), and the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). Each institution ensures that filters have undergone rigorous testing to meet qualifications. Some certifications to look for are NSF/ANSI Standard 53, NSF/ANSI Standard 42, NSF/ANSI 401, and NSF/ANSI 372. 

We would like to note that although most faucet filters remove a lot of chemicals and unsavory things from water, they’re unable to remove perfluoroalkyl and poly-fluoroalkyl substances, or PFAs. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, PFAs are “widely used, long-lasting chemicals, components of which break down very slowly over time.” To find all the details about water certifications, check out our review of water filter pitchers. 

The Tests

• Flow Rate Test: We examined and recorded the flow rate of the filter while filling a gallon bucket with water.
• Blind Taste Test: In order to determine how well each filter worked, we conducted a blind taste test using unfiltered tap water, filtered tap water, and bottled water.
• Change Filter Test: By changing in and out filters, we gauged the overall ease of the process.

What We Learned

How Water Faucet Filters Work

The intricacies of the filtering process can differ depending on the specific model of the water faucet filter, but the basics remain the same. After attaching the filter and mounting base directly to a faucet, you flip a switch (or pull out a pin, in the case of the Culligan). The water then flows until it reaches the filtration section. According to Culligan, “the water passes through a ‘sediment trap.’ This screen helps remove particles of sediment like dirt or sand. After that, the water is typically sent through a block of activated carbon and zeolite, which is full of pores that trap contaminants like chlorine.” This process ensures that some of the worst (and perhaps slimiest of) offenders never make it into your drinking glass.

When it comes to brewing coffee, for example, filtered water is essential. “Water that’s too soft has a hard time actually pulling the good-tasting solids out of the coffee bed,” writes former commerce writer Jesse Raub. “At the same time, it’s really hard to control the chemical makeup of your tap. A good rule of thumb is to start with a carbon water filter.”

All But One Filter Removed All Traces of Flavor

While conducting the blind taste test, we found that the Brita, Culligan, and DuPont filtered out all flavors found in the unfiltered water. (We never knew we could describe water in so many ways until this test.) Our untampered and unfiltered water tasted faintly metallic, so we were disappointed that the water filtered by PUR had traces of that flavor. 

Setup Was (Almost) Painless

We always enjoy simple instructions when it comes to setting up any kitchen fixture. (We’ve banged our heads against enough walls in frustration when building cheap furniture, thank you!) Most setups consisted of loading the filter cartridge into the faucet mount and then screwing on the entire appliance to the faucet itself. The PUR, Brita, and Culligan each included adapters for faucets that are either internally or externally threaded. But everything got a little dicey when we found out the hard way that the Brita cartridge was not screwed on entirely—the filter chamber filled with water and then sent the cartridge flying up and off the mount (and into our face). The lesson? Make sure the filter is properly attached before turning on the water.

Each Filter Required An Initial Flush

If you would like to take your filter home, set it up, and guzzle down the very first glass of filtered water, think again. Every filter required running water through the filter for at least five minutes before use. The Culligan’s initial flush lasted for even longer, clocking in at 10 minutes (we were baffled to find the flushed water ran a bit warm at first even though we ran cold water through the system). The flush serves two purposes: 1. To activate the filter. 2. To clean out any dust or other debris inside the chamber. Each filter also comes with a warning to only filter cold water—since hot water can cause damage to the filter—so it’s important to change to the “unfiltered” setting before doing something like washing dishes.  

Filters Last Approximately Two to Four Months

If you’re staying as hydrated as possible (get that glowing skin, friends!) then odds are you’ll be putting your filter through the wringer. Most faucet filters need to be replaced every two to four months, depending on use. The Culligan has the shortest filter usage period since the company recommends swapping out each filter approximately every two months. On the other end of the spectrum, the Brita lasts for a proposed four months. The PUR and DuPont suggest filter changes every three months. Not sure if you’ll be able to keep track of time? We recommend the Brita for its indicator light. As the filter loses its life, the light changes from flashing green to flashing amber, to flashing red.

The Criteria: What to Look For in a Faucet Water Filter

During testing, we looked for filters that were easy to install, use, and replace. We also considered how effective the filter is by conducting a blind taste test and checking to make sure that each is officially ANSI/NSI certified. 

Our Favorite Faucet Filters

The Best Water Faucet Filter

Brita Faucet Mount Water Filtration System

$33 $31 at Amazon $24 $23 at Walmart $22 at Home Depot

What we liked: The Brita’s flow rate was the second fastest of the bunch, filtering one gallon in one minute and 24 seconds. Unlike the other filters, this one only needs a filter change every four months. Even better? It comes with a filter light to let you know when the filter needs changing! Overall, the filter is lightweight, simple, and sleek, and it fits in well with other chrome appliances. Plus, at the time of testing, it was half the cost of the DuPont (our previous, now-discontinued winner).

What we didn’t like: We found out the hard way that the filter cartridge needed to be fastened very securely to the main section of the filter unit, otherwise the built-up water sent the cartridge flying. Once fastened properly, we did not have this issue again.

Key Specs

• Dimensions: 6.1 x 2.4 x 8.5 inches
• Materials: Plastic, chrome
• Filter: Requires replacement every 100 gallons/every four months; buy 2 replacement filters for $25
• Certifications: NSF/ANSI Standard 53; NSF/ANSI Standard 42
• Flow rate: 0.71 gallons per minute
• What’s included: 1 filter device, 1 filter cartridge, 2 adaptors for 13/16- and 15/16-inch size faucets

Another Great Faucet Water Filter

Culligan FM-25 Faucet-Mount Advanced Water Filtration System

$45 at Amazon

What we liked: Most importantly, this filter produced clean, neutral-tasting water. We were very impressed with the Culligan’s flow rate: It filtered a gallon of water in a mere one minute and 19 seconds, much faster than our previous winner, the DuPont. Replacement filters are $19 per filter, which is relatively affordable. On that note, the filter cartridge should be replaced every 200 gallons, as opposed to Brita's every 100. The filter is sleek and nice-looking.

What we didn't like: Activation of the filter itself–once affixed and flushed–was not intuitive. We had to pull out a pin on the side of the machine for the filtration to begin. This activation only works if the water is already running relatively steadily.

Key Specs

• Dimensions: 5.5 x 3.5 x 6.5 inches
• Materials: Metal
• Filter: Replace filter every 200 gallons or 2 months, although cartridge life can vary depending on water usage and conditions.
• Certifications: Tested and certified by IAPMO against ANSI Standard 42 and 53 (Tested and Certified by NSF International to NSF/ANSI Std. 42 for the aesthetic reduction of Chlorine Taste and Odor, Nominal Particulate Class I. Std. 53–Lead, Turbidity Lindane, Atrazine reduction.)
• Flow rate: 0.75 gallons per minute
• What’s included: 1 filter device, 1 filter cartridge

The Competition

• PUR PLUS Faucet Mount Water Filtration System: The PUR sounded great on paper: it has the right certifications and was super easy to set up. However, aesthetically, we cannot stand the bulky, ghostly white appearance that sticks out from the rest of our kitchen appliances. And, less pettily, we were very disappointed to find that we tasted some metallic flavor in the filtered water.
• DuPont WFFM100XCH Premier Faucet Mount Drinking Water Filter: Although this faucet previously held the winning spot on our list owing to its simple setup, smooth flow, and sleek aesthetic, it has been discontinued.

FAQs

How does a faucet filter work? 

The filter is attached directly to the faucet itself. As the unfiltered water flows into the filtration section, it is purified by a screen that filters out larger particles. The next part of the process–a section often made up of activated carbon and zeolite–takes care of smaller impurities.

What’s the difference between a faucet filter, a water filter pitcher, and a reverse osmosis filtration system?

While each filter has the same purpose–to cleanse water of a variety of harmful chemicals and other impurities–faucet filters, water filter pitchers, and reverse osmosis filtration systems are all set up differently. The faucet filter affixes to the faucet itself; water filter pitchers are freestanding pitchers to which unfiltered water can be added; and reverse osmosis filtration systems are often attached under the sink to the tap water source.

How much do filter cartridges cost? 

Since every filter is different, replacement cartridges can vary in price. Cartridges can usually be purchased in sets, either directly from the company’s website, or online elsewhere. Price can greatly depend on the bulk of cartridges ordered but we have found that the range can go from $13 for two (such as for PUR) to $46 for a set of three (such as for DuPont).

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

There are a couple of ways to determine what exactly is in your water. Many water suppliers provide an annual Consumer Confidence Report. But if this is not the case, we recommend visiting the United States Environmental Protection Agency's website to access the information. You can also use a self-administered test in order to find out if you have hard water (we’ve used the Premium Water Hardness Test Kit).

What does a filter get rid of? 

Faucet filters are excellent for removing both health and non-health-related impurities, depending on their certifications. This means that any certified filter is likely to remove things like lead, chlorine, cadmium, and more. However, most filters are not powerful enough to remove some long-lasting chemicals, such as those that fall under the umbrella of PFAs. Read more about water filtration in our review of water pitcher filters.

Is a PUR or Brita filter better?

The PUR faucet filter we tested had the right certifications, but it fell short on performance. The water we filtered with it tasted metallic. Regarding aesthetics, It's hard to get used to the enormous attachment. The Brita has a more discreet profile, cleanly filtered water, and only needed to have its filter changed every four months.

Why We're the Experts

• Abigail Clarkin is a contributor to Serious Eats who has written numerous tested reviews, including pepper mills, personal blenders, and tea infusers.
• For this article, she tested four water filters, evaluating them according to a variety of metrics including their official health and safety certifications, a blind taste test, and a timed flow rate.