The Best Faucet Water Filter Guide and Review 2020

Having clean water is a must for living a healthdy life (see what I did there?)

Who wants water that is filled with sulfur and heavy metals like lead? Yuk!!!

Unfortunately, not all tap water comes from the same source, and there are differences in the quality of tap water across the country.

It can go from having the highest quality like in Eldorado Springs, Colorado, to the absolute worst in Flint, Michigan. Depending on your geography, it will be in your best interest to get one of the best faucet water filters for yourself and your family.

Luckily, the quality of your water can be dramatically improved just by having a good faucet water filter. Even better is that I will review the best faucet water filters for 2020 so that you can have some cleaner water.

10 Best Water Faucet Filters for 2020

Last update on 2021-09-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

1. PUR FM-3700B Advanced Faucet Water Filter

This is one of the best water filters made by a very reliable company, PUR. The PUR brand of water faucet filters is known for its ability to remove more contaminants, pesticides, and heavy metals than other filters. This includes removing up to 99% of lead.

This one, in particular, has a very stylish chrome coat finish. It will look exquisite on your kitchen sink while not being too large to take up a lot of space. This one will quickly get you over 100 gallons of water per filter life.

While it may be on the more expensive side, it is worth the investment. The only issue is that this faucet filter does not work with pulldown faucets, so you may need to contact PUR for an adapter.

Last update on 2021-10-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros

• Good water flow
• Removes 99% of lead
• 3 step installation

Cons

• More costly than other faucet water filters
• Small filter size

Customer Opinion:  

“We’ve been using it for about 2 months now, and it works perfectly. The natural minerals in the filter give you a crisp and fresh drink, and it is truly effective at removing the tastes of city water. Seriously, I’ve drunk quite a bit of Voss water over the years, and this thing makes my plain tap water as tasteless and fresh as all of those fancy water brands.”  – Ryan M. 

Dimensions	3.2 x 7.3 x 7.7 inches
Difficulty of Installation	Easy
Style	Vertical with swivel
Filter Change Sensor	Yes
Filter Longevity	2-3 months
360-Degree Swivel	Yes
Different Finishes	Chrome
Cost	$$

2. PUR (PFM400H) Chrome 1 Horizontal Faucet Mount with Mineral Clear Filter

PUR prides itself on making the best faucet water filters on the market, even better than Brita. This product brings a sleek horizontal design along with very sturdy parts that give it outstanding durability.

This filter is certified to reduce over 70 contaminants. This is including 99% of lead, 96% of mercury, 92% of certain pesticides, and microbial cysts. The filters themselves are made of an advanced carbon formula created to give you remarkably crisp and refreshing tasting water.

Again, the main problem comes from not being able to be compatible with handheld or pulldown faucets. Also, some people may find the design a little awkward and can get in the way while working in the kitchen. Still, this is one of the most reliable products on the market.

Last update on 2021-09-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros

• Terrific flow
• 6-month filter life
• Advanced carbon filter

Cons

• Higher cost
• Heavier than other filters
• Not compatible with all faucets

Customer Opinion:

“Included hardware made installation relatively painless (gooseneck faucet w/o sprayer). Included filter met the manufacturer’s estimated life of 2-3 months usage. We just had our first filter change (purchased brand name replacement), and it was also quite easy. The filter has improved the taste and appearance of tap water and does not leave behind heavy particulate or charcoal.” – Olivia

Dimensions	6.75 Wx 2.875  x 5.25  inches
Difficulty of Installation	Easy
Style	Horizontal
Filter Change Sensor	Yes
Filter Longevity	2-3 months
360-Degree Swivel	Yes
Different Finishes	Metallic Grey, Chrome, Stainless Steel
Cost	$$

3. Engdenton Faucet Water Filter

If you want a durable filter, look no more.

This water faucet filter is made with stainless steel that will last for years without corrosion or cracking. It also has a unique 360-degree swivel in case you need to adjust the angle. The water flow is impressive wherein one minute, you can get 8 glasses of water.

Thanks to the advanced carbon water filter, you can guarantee taste will be excellent as it removes heavy metals that give water that “hard” taste.

Use this water for cooking to make better tasting dinners and meals. The carbon filter was also designed to prevent bacteria overgrowth while removing all debris and contaminants.

Last update on 2021-09-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros

• Terrific flow
• 6-month filter life
• Advanced carbon filter

Cons

• Higher cost
• Heavier than other filters
• Not compatible with all faucets

Customer Opinion:

“This is the 4th brand of kitchen sink water filter I have owned, and it is my favorite. All metal is attractive, especially when 2 of my previous painted plastic ones started losing their coating. It was effortless to install, and it has THE best water pressure output of any filter. The pressure is so good I have had it splash out of glasses and coffee pots because it is so concentrated, not at all sluggish. No chlorine smell or flavor.” –W. Padgett 

Dimensions	6.75 Wx 2.875  x 5.25  inches
Difficulty of Installation	Easy
Style	Vertical
Filter Change Sensor	No
Filter Longevity	6 months
360-Degree Swivel	Yes
Different Finishes	Silver
Cost	$$$

4. PUR FM2500V Classic Faucet Mount Filter

This is a classic filter that is popular, reliable, and affordable.

Did I mention that you will only need to replace this faucet water filter only 3 or 4 times per year? You can save almost $1000 per year on bottled water by buying this $20 a water filter.

The PUR company has made this filter to wear it removes over 99% of the lead as well as up to 70 different metals like mercury, asbestos, and arsenic.

This filter is a must if you have young children in the house. Make sure you double-check your type of filter you have to make sure it is compatible. However, there are adapters made for this product. If you have problems with the installation, all you have to do is contact the company for help.

Last update on 2021-10-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros

• Removes 99% of lead and microbial cysts
• The swivel makes it very mobile
• Very affordable

Cons

• Average filter life
• Complaints of loose-fitting connections can leak
• Only comes in grey

Customer Opinion:     

 ”Got this product today and really liked it, the product is excellent as you would expect a Pur product to be. I also like the fact that it has an LED indicator light that tells you when it’s time to change the filter. Also, this particular one comes with the high-end filter for maximum filtration instead of the cheaper filter. So for the money, $22 is how much I spent on mine, I highly recommend the water tastes excellent, and the unit was straightforward to install.” – Scott Dillard

Dimensions
Difficulty of Installation	Easy
Style	Vertical
Filter Change Sensor	Yes
Filter Longevity	2 months
360-Degree Swivel	Yes
Different Finishes	Grey
Cost	$

5. Waterdrop 320-Gallon Long-Lasting Water Faucet Filtration System

This beautifully designed water faucet filter has a straightforward 1 switch design to allow you to go from tap water to filtered water seamlessly. It is effortless to install, even for beginners.

The unique aspect of this filter is that it can produce 300 gallons of water per filter life. It is high flow wherein one minute you can have 10 cups of water.

This is one of the best filters in terms of production per filter life expectancy.

Also, its advanced carbon filter is made to be up to 10-12 times more absorptive than traditional carbon water filters in terms of removing lead and other impurities. Again make sure that it is compatible with your current water faucet. However, the company does offer a 30-day warranty to return it if you have any problems.

Not only does Waterdrop pride themselves on customer service, but also volunteering. A portion of every filter sold goes to support clean water initiatives in Kenya, Africa, to provide safe, clean water to all populations.

Last update on 2021-10-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros

• Each filter provides over 300 gallons of water
• An advanced carbon filtration system
• 30-day money-back guarantee

Cons

• Installation more difficult than others
• Not compatible with all faucets

Customer Opinion:

“I am so happy with this product. I have 3 kids, and we drink a LOT of water. I’ve already saved a ton of money, and we’ve only had this for a week. My teenage son installed it with no issue. 320 gallons per filter is fantastic, and the price for the refill filters is excellent. I’m thrilled that it helps filter out fluoride. I read that every purchase helps bring clean water to those in need. Customer service sent me a thank you message with their contact information, which was above and beyond. Very happy with this purchase.” – Soap Box Derby Queen

Dimensions	8.1 x 7.1 x 2.9 inches
Difficulty of Installation	Medium
Style	Vertical
Filter Change Sensor	No
Filter Longevity	3 months
360-Degree Swivel	No
Different Finishes	White
Cost	$

6. ESOW Faucet Mount Water Filter, SUS304

This is ESOW’s most advanced mounted water faucet filter.

This is a 7^th generation Japanese water faucet filter that offers a tremendous value.The outside is made of stainless steel, while the inside is a smooth ceramic surface built to resist corrosion and tarnish.

It’s stainless steel mesh completely isolates impurities and sediment from reaching your glass.The curved faucet allows for a smooth stream without any splashing and is also very quiet. This product as well comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee if you are not happy with it for a 100% refund.

Last update on 2021-10-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros

• Advanced material to prevent cracking and corrosion
• Removes particles as small as .01 micrometers
• Certified to remove 99% of Lead, 92% of pesticides and 96% of mercury

Cons

• Needs a gasket on the water filter connection for optimal water
• More difficult installation

Customer Opinion:

“Before using this filter, I always felt that the tap water in my house was hard to drink for boiling water. After using it, the water taste was much better than before. Very happy, and the installation is easy, and there is not too much-complicated installation, it is worth having. Now I use filtered water for cooking, washing dishes, and washing my hands and face. I feel relieved from a heavy bottled water pack!” – Suji Park

Dimensions	8.7 x 6.1 x 3.3 inches
Difficulty of Installation	Easy
Style	Vertical
Filter Change Sensor	No
Filter Longevity	2-3 months
360-Degree Swivel	NO
Different Finishes	Silver
Cost	$$

7. JONYJ Faucet Water Filter, 304 Stainless-Steel Water Faucet Filtration System

If you are looking for an easy to install water faucet filter with a fresh design, the JONYJ faucet water filter is for you.

The outside is made of stainless steel designed not to allow any type of leak. Part of the design is that it has a simple 1 switch filter system to enable you to switch from using filtered water to tap water.

The carbon filter is imported from Japan, and it is very high quality. This product is well known for removing up to 93% of chlorine as well as eliminating any foul water odors as well.Again make sure that your faucet is compatible as it is not compatible with hand-held, pull-out, or spray faucets. If you do have issues there is a warranty offered with this product.

Last update on 2021-10-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros

• Great filter life
• One of the most advanced carbon filters
• Gives some of the cleanest water

Cons

• Heavier than some filters
• Some reported installation difficulty in the faucet/filter connections

Customer Opinion:  

“This is a great stainless water filter. It is very easy to install. No longer need to buy drinking water.  I just hook it onto my sink faucet, and I have great tasting drinking water all the time. Value for money. I am happy with my purchase. I highly recommend it. Very easy to install. High-quality stainless steel material that will last long.” – Agatha K.  

Dimensions	9.1 x 6.2 x 3.3 inches
Difficulty of Installation	Easy
Style	Vertical
Filter Change Sensor	Yes
Filter Longevity	3 months
360-Degree Swivel	No
Different Finishes	Stainless Steel
Cost	$$

8. DuPont WFFM100XCH Premier Faucet Mount Drinking Water Filter

The DuPont company has made a great affordable product that is up there with other water filters.

You may notice the beautiful chrome finish, which makes this a gorgeous looking water faucet filter. Did I mention that each filter is made with a special microbial polymer that is resistant to bacteria and mildew?

This premier water faucet filter does a great job in eliminating lead, chlorine, mercury, dust, and even asbestosis from your tap water. At a price tag of around $20, this is a steal! Look to get about 2 to 3 months of use per filter.

Pros

• Very affordable
• Fast flow
• Resistant to bacterial/microbial growth on surfaces

Cons

• May appear as grey rather than chrome
• Problems with leaking

Customer Opinion:

”Took me 5 minutes to install, run water through it, and OMG!!! the water is so good!! At first, our water tasted like lake water, very nasty, and had an odor. IT was full of sediment and just tasted horrible. After this filter, we tried it again. WOW!!!! Felt like I was drinking bottled water!! I had 3 glasses and was in heaven. Now I do not like drinking water, I’m a Dr. Pepper fan. But after this, more water for me!

​

I have tried other faucet purifiers, and they have all leaked or just really didn’t clean the water; some were so hard to attach they broke during install. Get this one, and you will not be sorry!!!” – Amanda D. Pittman

Dimensions	2.62 x 5.75 x 5.5 inches
Difficulty of Installation	Easy
Style	Vertical
Filter Change Sensor	No
Filter Longevity	2-3 months
360-Degree Swivel	Yes
Different Finishes	Chrome
Cost	$

9. PUR PUR-0A1 Faucet Water Filter

PUR strikes again with another fantastic faucet water filter for a great price.

The PUR-0A1 filter (just like its sister products from PUR) can reduce over 70 contaminants, including chlorine, mercury, dirt, 92% of pesticides, and even 99% of lead.

The most unique thing about this filter is that installation is ridiculously easy, not even requiring a single tool. Also, you will notice the LED light on the faucet filter to notify you when it is time to be changed. The filter life is about 2 to 3 months, giving you an overall 100 gallons of filtered water per water filter.

Last update on 2021-10-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros

• Tool-free installation
• 1-year warranty
• Lighter than other filters

Cons

• Problems with plastic components of the filter
• Is not compatible with all filters
• Filter lever is sensitive

Customer Opinion: 

”I bought this water filter to try and save me some money, but I was not sure how well it would do because I’ve tried water filters before, and I was not impressed. This water filter does a fantastic job and makes my tap water almost taste just bottled water. The water is refreshing, and it eliminates all the negative features and negative taste of tap water. If your thinking of trying a water filter, this is the way to go. You won’t be disappointed.” – Pete

Dimensions	7.74 x 3.2 x 7.7 inches
Difficulty of Installation	Easy
Style	Vertical
Filter Change Sensor	Yes
Filter Longevity	2-3 months
360-Degree Swivel	nO
Different Finishes	Stainless Steel
Cost	$$

10. Brita Tap Water Filter System

Brita prides itself on making sturdy products while environmentally friendly. This tap water filter system is BPA free. One filter equals about 100 gallons of water, and each filter lasts about 4 months, giving you an above-average life per filter.

The basic faucet mount removes 99% of lead and reduces chlorine and asbestos commonly found in tap water. It also is made to trap dirt, dust, and other smaller particles.

 It has a very sleek design making it complementary to most kitchen designs. Also the price of $20 is very affordable.

Last update on 2021-10-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros

• 1 click filter replacement
• 3 filter options
• Removes over 60 contaminants

Cons

• May need an adapter as not compatible with all faucets
• Problems with cracks in plastic components

Customer Opinion:

“I installed this filter several months ago, and so far, like it is much better than the older style Brita I had on the faucet. It is holding up well, and the new tab that slides from shower to straight pour (both unfiltered) to the smaller filtered stream is super easy to use and seems less likely to freeze up as the old one did. This filter is an excellent value and is saving a ton of money on bottled water and eliminating the plastic waste almost entirely.” – Seachelle

The Health Importance of Clean Water

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cleaner water has the potential to prevent 1.4 million deaths from diarrhea, 500,000 deaths from malaria, and 860,000 deaths from malnutrition. It is estimated that at least 1 billion people in the world do not have access to clean sources of water. In some parts of Africa, Asia, and Middle East some people must walk as far 4 miles or 8 hours to get clean water.

Water is the most important and abundant resource on this planet. 71% of the surface of the earth’s surface is made up of the blue stuff along with 60% of the human body. Without water, our body will die in just 3 to 4 four days. Whilewithout food our body can survive for weeks! Having clean water is vital to having a healthy life, here are just some of the benefits of healthy drinking water.

• Helps with blood flow and delivering oxygen to the organs
• Boosts skin and hair health
• Helps keep your kidneys working efficiently
• Helps maintain regular bowel movements  
• Eliminates waste from your body
• Helps in weight loss and the feeling of satiety or “feeling full”
• Reduces hangovers
• Maintaining healthy blood pressure
• Boosts performance during exercise and sex
• Lubricates your joints

There is not a fully agreed amount of water to drink. Still, I recommend around 6 to 8oz glasses of water a day, whether it is spring, tap, or even sparkling water.

The United States water treatment plants work hard to deliver 42 billion gallons of water every day to our homes. Most of the water (80%) in the US comes from streams, lakes, rivers, oceans, glaciers, and reservoirs. The remaining 20% comes from underground groundwater aquifers and wells.

After the water gets to one of the treatment plants, there are ususally four main steps that must happen before it leaves to come to our pipes.

• Coagulation and Flocculation – Chemicals are added to the water. They bind with the dirt and dissolved particles, forming larger particles called floc.
• Sedimentation – The combined floc particles settle on the bottom.
• Filtration – More water is passed through filters composed of sand, gravel, and charcoal to remove dissolved particles such as dust, parasites, bacteria, viruses, and chemicals.
• Disinfection – chemicals like chlorine are added to kill parasites, bacteria, viruses, and germs. Fluorine is added to prevent tooth decay.
• Storage– Water that has been cleaned and filtered can also be stored in a reservoir or dam if it is not sent out.

Depending on where you live can affect the quality of your water in the US.

On the west coast, water will taste saltier as they use much more desalinization (turning saltwater into freshwater).

In the Midwest and Northeast, water may have more a metal taste as the water systems were first made using lead pipes.

If you live in the South by the farming land, water can contain more nitrates, pesticides and sulfur. These are the runoff wastes from farms that can enter rivers, lakes, and underground wells.

It is not an easy task to make clean water but we do a decent job at it.

However we can make it even cleanier ourselves by using a water faucet filter.

How do Tap Water Faucet Filters Work

The first thing to address is the difference between a water filter and water purifier, it may seem like semantics, but there is a HUGE difference.

Water Purifier– A water purifier will purify the water, usually through a process called reverse osmosis. This is where water is forced through a semi-permeable membrane using high pressure to force the particles and impurities out, so you get clean water on the other side.

With a water purifier, the quality of the water being filtered DOES NOT MATTER. It can be contaminated water from the ground or salt water from the ocean. It will remove over at least 95% of all contaminants if it is an actual water purifying system.

ON THE OTHER HAND

Faucet Water Filter– These improve the quality of the water by making it go through some kind of filter. These filters are usually composed of activated charcoal granules that trap impurities, including chlorine, heavy metals, pesticides, and industrial solvents.

There are other faucet water filters made of components designed to remove limescale. Limescale is what gives water that “hard” taste.

Some are designed to especially good at removing lead. Too much lead can lead to lead toxicity. In children it can result in stunted growth, poor bone and teeth formation, and neurological problems. In adults it can lead to abdominal pain, mood changes, and weakness.

Faucet water filters improve the quality of the water by around 20-25%. This means that any water you have after it has been filtered will be much better for you.

However, water fresh out of the ocean or from a contaminated river will still be unsafe to drink even though it has been filtered. That is why these filters filter already potable (drinkable) water.

Does it Really Make that Big a Difference

Of course, it does! You think we would be buying it if it didn’t make a difference??? hahaha.

While it does not entirely filter out everything,the difference in the quality of the water is night and day.

The salty or hard taste of water caused by lime, lead, or arsenic is taken away and replaced with clean, crisp water.

Now that you have a pitcher of cleaner water, then you can use better quality water for making your soups for dinner. You also can bathe your little baby in much better water instead of water filled with hard lime and heavy metals, yuk!

But Wait! There are Additional Benefits

How much money have you wasted on buying bottled water? To calculate it, say you spend $5 per pack two times per week, that is $10. Now multiply that by fifty-two weeks, and you spend yearly $520 on bottled water.

I think we can do better by saving money with a faucet water filter.

The filter will run you $20-$40 dollars. You will need to replace it 2-3 times in the year (maybe more or less depending on how many people use it), and of course, buy a sturdy water bottle ($10).

You can easily save over $400 per year by only using a faucet water filter instead of buying bottled water.

Wow!!!!

Also, think about how much you are helping out the environment as well. With fewer plastic bottles, there are fewer animals harmed by them and fewer greenhouse emissions released by the burning of plastic products.

What is the healthiest water filtration system?

I would say there is not one that is healthier than the other. All the products on this list are great products that will give you clean and healthy water.

However, I would make sure to optimize health, make sure your filter is BPA free. BPA is a chemical found in manufactured plastics that, when ingested, can mess up our hormonal system.

Are faucet filters better than pitchers?

It is a personal decision on which is better.

I personally prefer faucet filter over pitchers just because you do not have to keep refilling them and much less of a spilling hazard. That being said, pitchers are very handy if you are using filtered water for laundry or bathing your child.

Do water filter pitchers remove lead?

Yes, but some are better than others. When shopping, make sure to look at the products’ description to state if it is primarily made to remove lead.

For instance, Zerowater water filters claim to be the best at removing lead.

PUR products, while not as efficient at removing lead as Zerowater, still eliminates a majority of lead along with other contaminants like chlorine, pesticides, mercury, dust, and arsenic.

So if you want a water filter pitcher made especially to remove lead, you can definitely find it but most filters do a great job at removing lead already.

Does filtering tap water remove chlorine?

Yes, that is one thing that they are best at. Most filters were initially designed to remove chlorine from water. While chlorine is vital for making our water drinkable, it gives water that bitter, nasty taste.

Luckily all the filters on this list can get rid of chlorine just fine.

How do you clean a water filter?

About every month or so, it is essential to clean the filter apparatus to make sure bacteria and mildew do not build up.

Once you remove the filter, there are two parts that you should look to clean, which are the faucet attachment and the filter compartment.

The part attached to the faucet can be easily cleaned by some warm water and a toothbrush (please do not use your personal one, haha). I do not recommend using bleach or heavy cleaners except for some rubbing alcohol.

To clean the filter, 1) unscrew the compartment, 2) remove the filter, 3) then let the water drain out from the chamber, and 4) clean the chamber of the filter.

Again warm water and a toothbrush should clean this nicely and use a little rubbing alcohol if you need it.

Now, if there is rust or hard calcified deposits on your water faucet filter apparatus, I suggest you just purchase another one.

Does a water filter remove microplastics?

Yes, water faucet filters should be able to do this.

Microplastics are tiny pieces of plastic less than 5 millimeters in length (about the size of a poppy or sesame seed).

These microplastics are one of the greatest threats to our large lakes and oceans. This debris from microplastics forms large barges of plastic in the sea and oceans that are harmful to marine life.

Most carbon and sediment filters do have the capability to trap these tiny pieces of plastic. 

How often do I change my water filter 

The lifetime of most filters is about 2-3 months, with some of the elite lasting up to 5 or 6 months. If you need to know when to change the filter, make sure you buy one with a light that will blink when it is time for the filter to be replaced.

Conclusion

The quality of water is essential for the health of yourself and your family.

We are lucky to live in a country where we have some of the cleanest water on the entire planet. Just because water is drinkable does mean it has been completely filtered or cleaned.

Depending on which part of the country you live in, your water is going to be contaminated by something. Whether its pesticides from the runoff of a large farm or lead from old pipes, the water running through pipes should be filtered.

Having cleaner water ensures fewer infections, allows children to grow up healthier, and promotes better brain/heart health. The best way to increase the quality of your water is to buy a water faucet filter. 

The best faucet water filter should be one that is affordable, easy to install, and is durable. I am sure you will find a filter you like on our list J

Related: 15 Best Electric Tankless Water Heater Reviews – Editors Pick

Author BIO

Dr. CHRISTIAN-JEVON BRAMWELL MD

Christian Bramwell, MD uses his own weight loss story as teaching for people struggling with their own weight through blogging, teaching, and writing. His mission in life is to promote health and education, that is why he has chosen to be a family physician and found his own nonprofit Project RAK based on education and empowerment.

NPI (Doctor proof number) – 1336632918 NPI Number: