As the name implies, countertop are filters are designed to sit out on the counter. Our tests turned up a couple standouts, including this relative newcomer to the market from AquaTru. It’s more expensive than other countertop filters, but a few features make it worth the splurge, our experts say.
First and foremost, its four-stage filtration includes reverse osmosis, the most robust water filtration technology available to consumers. As a result, it’s certified to NSF/ANSI standards 42, 53, 58 and 401 to remove more than over 80 contaminants, such as chlorine, heavy metals like lead, VOCs, pharmaceuticals, endocrine disruptors and more. We should note that it also removes over 90% of fluoride, a fact some consumers may like, while others may not.
The AquaTru carafe comes with multiple filters: pre/carbon, reverse osmosis and VOC (a type of carbon filter to remove VOCs). If you prefer some minerals, there's also an option to separately purchase a Mineral Boost Alkaline VOC Filter or Filter Mineral Boost Alkaline Combo Pack. The mineral boost filter adds minerals like calcium and magnesium and is supposed to mimic the mineral-rich taste of Evian or Arrowhead.
The water filter system dispenses water into a carafe, which our experts found handy because you can store it on the counter or put it in the fridge. We also like the carafe is made of glass, not plastic, though of course that means being careful not to drop it.
The reverse osmosis process creates waste water that ends up in a tank at the back of the system. Be sure to empty the tank after every cycle because the water contains contaminants.
While the dispenser has a pricey upfront cost, the filters last longer than most, making the yearly cost of replacing filters comparable to some devices that capture fewer contaminants.
