Water Filter Buying Guide
Find the perfect water filter for your needs. Compare NSF-certified filters by type, contaminant removal capability, and price point.
Expert reviewed
Verified standards
Independent reviews
Price tracked
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
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.
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.