Water Filter Buying Guide
Find the perfect water filter for your needs. Compare NSF-certified filters by type, contaminant removal capability, and price point.
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Verified standards
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Browse by Filter Type
Pitcher Filters
$25-80
Affordable, easy-to-use filters perfect for apartments and small households
Best For:
Lead, Chlorine, Mercury
Key Benefits:
- No installation
- Portable
- Affordable
Faucet Mount Filters
$25-50
Attach directly to your faucet for filtered water on demand
Best For:
Lead, Chlorine, PFAS
Key Benefits:
- Easy installation
- Fast flow rate
- Economical
Under Sink Filters
$90-650
Professional-grade filtration installed under your kitchen sink
Best For:
Lead, PFAS, Chromium-6, VOCs
Key Benefits:
- High capacity
- Hidden install
- Better filtration
Reverse Osmosis Systems
$170-470
Most comprehensive filtration removing 95%+ of all contaminants
Best For:
All contaminants including Arsenic, Fluoride, Nitrates
Key Benefits:
- Maximum removal
- Best water quality
- Long-lasting
Countertop Filters
$130-350
Gravity-fed systems requiring no installation or electricity
Best For:
Lead, Chlorine, Bacteria, Viruses
Key Benefits:
- No plumbing needed
- High capacity
- Emergency ready
Refrigerator Filters
$40-60
Built-in filters for refrigerators with water and ice dispensers
Best For:
Lead, Chlorine, Basic filtration
Key Benefits:
- Convenient access
- Space-saving
- Easy replacement
Shower & Bath Filters
$20-90
Reduce chlorine and contaminants in shower and bath water for healthier skin and hair
Best For:
Chlorine, Chloramines, Skin sensitivity
Key Benefits:
- Easy installation
- Healthier skin & hair
- Reduces chemical exposure
Whole-House Systems
$300-1500
Filter all water entering your home for comprehensive protection
Best For:
Sediment, Chlorine, Iron, All-home protection
Key Benefits:
- Protects all fixtures
- Low maintenance
- Long-lasting
Browse by NSF Standard
Find filters certified for specific contaminant removal
NSF-42
Aesthetic Effects
Improves taste, odor, and clarity. Removes chlorine and particulates.
NSF-44
Cation Exchange Softeners
Reduces water hardness by removing calcium and magnesium.
NSF-53
Health Effects
Removes health-related contaminants like lead, VOCs, and cysts.
NSF-55
UV Microbiological
Disinfects water using UV light to kill bacteria and viruses.
NSF-58
Reverse Osmosis
Removes 95%+ of contaminants including arsenic, fluoride, and nitrates.
NSF-401
Emerging Contaminants
Removes PFAS, pharmaceuticals, and other emerging contaminants.
Browse by Brand
Shop water filters from trusted manufacturers
Whirlpool
Refrigerator & Under-Sink
NSF-certified filters for refrigerators and under-sink systems with proven lead removal.
Solventum (3M)
Premium RO & Under-Sink
Advanced multi-stage filtration with reverse osmosis systems and under-sink filters.
iSpring
Reverse Osmosis Leader
High-performance RO systems with exceptional value and comprehensive NSF certifications.
Pentair
Professional Grade
Everpure filters and RO systems for residential and commercial applications.
Omnipure
Replacement Cartridges
Compact under-sink replacement filters with NSF certifications for lead removal.
How to Choose the Right Filter
1. Check Your Water Quality Report
Use our city search to find your local water quality report. Identify which contaminants are above health guidelines in your area.
2. Match Filter to Contaminants
Look for NSF certifications that match your needs. NSF-53 removes lead and cysts, NSF-58 for reverse osmosis, NSF-401 for emerging contaminants like PFAS.
3. Consider Your Budget & Usage
Pitcher filters are affordable but need frequent replacement. Under-sink and RO systems cost more upfront but have lower long-term costs per gallon.
4. Verify NSF Certification
Always verify NSF certification claims. Look for the NSF mark on packaging and check the NSF database to confirm the specific contaminants removed.
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