🕷️ Crawler Inspector

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Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 83 (from laksa117)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa083.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.realsimple.com/best-water-filter-pitchers-6827844\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.realsimple.com/best-water-filter-pitchers-6827844\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/best-water-filter-pitchers-6827844","crawl_time":1776007308,"first_indexed_time":1669073894,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,realsimple!www,\/best-water-filter-pitchers-6827844 s443","src_root_hash":"15799792504981081483","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"We Tested Water Filter Pitchers: Here Are the Best Ones","meta_descriptions":["We tested 18 of the best water filter pitchers in our lab and evaluated them based on their ability to improve the taste and smell of our tap water, ease of use, and overall value. We also consulted an expert for advice on how to shop for water filter pitchers."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"A water filter pitcher makes it easier to have great-tasting water on hand—\nwithout\nheavy metals and contaminants—and can seriously cut back on your plastic bottle usage. Plus, we all know staying hydrated is essential to your well-being, so having the right water filter pitcher can help you hit your daily water goals in a cinch. \nTo help you find the best water filter pitcher for your needs, we tested 18 options in our lab and evaluated them based on their ability to improve the taste and smell of our tap water, their ease of use, and their overall value. We also consulted\nNewsha Ajami\n, PhD, hydrologist and director of Urban Water Policy at Stanford University, for water filter pitcher advice from an expert.\nWhat Stands Out\nIt filters as you pour, so you don't have to wait for the basin to fill up, and it improved the taste of our water.\nWhat Could Be Improved\nIt only removes chlorine and no other contaminants.\nThe Brita 10-Cup Rapids Stream Water Pitcher is our top pick because of its ease of use and performance in our testing. Setting up the pitcher was very straightforward—you just run it under cold water, clean the plastic container, and fill it up.\nUnlike its competitors, this pitcher filters water while you pour so you don’t have to wait ages for it to fill up. The filter began working instantly as we poured, and in no time we had a pitcher full of fresh water. It wasn't cumbersome to fill up or pour, and it fit under our sink without any hassle. \nWe were also impressed at this pitcher's ability to improve the taste of our water. The control water had a chlorine aftertaste, while the filtered water tasted clean and crisp thanks to Brita's activated-carbon stream filter.\nWe also noticed that the filtered water had a slightly clearer appearance than that of the control. However, if water quality is a major concern for you, know that this filter mostly removes chlorine and isn't equipped to filter other contaminants like heavy metals and bacteria. \nDuring our testing, we didn't find any drawbacks to this pitcher. Its compact size can easily fit in your refrigerator, and it's lightweight and easy to pour. It also comes with an electronic indicator on top, so you know when it's time to change the filter (around every two months). \nCapacity:\n10 cups |\nDimensions:\n11 by 5 by 16 in. |\nFilter Replacement Frequency:\nEvery 40 gallons (about 2 months) |\nDishwasher Safe:\nNo\nCredit: Real Simple\nCredit: Real Simple\nCredit: Real Simple\nCredit: Real Simple\nCredit: Real Simple\nWhat Stands Out\nIts sleek, compact design saves space in the fridge, and it filters water as soon as it’s filled.\nWhat Could Be Improved\nThere’s no indicator that tells you when it’s time to replace the filter.\nThis small pitcher is unique because it uses a coconut shell carbon filter, which is a new type of filter. Coconut shell carbon has more porosity, which means it's more efficient at removing contaminants, and it's more environmentally friendly to manufacture. Right after we set up this pitcher, we noticed the freshly filtered water had a slight metallic aftertaste compared to our control tap water, but it disappeared after we refiltered it. \nThis water filter pitcher is sleek in design. It's slender at less than 5 inches wide, and we were able to fill it up with one hand which was quite convenient. Even though it doesn't have a handle, it wasn’t difficult to grasp and had a smooth pour.\nWhile we liked that the pitcher is made entirely out of glass for sustainability and easy cleaning, we wouldn't recommend this filter for someone living with small kids because it could easily break. Additionally, its smaller size means it has to get filled up more frequently, which may become a hassle if you live with others.\nWe were especially impressed with the speed at which the filter worked, immediately filling up as our tap water entered its filter. However, there aren't any indicators that let you know when to replace the filter, so you'll need to set up reminders on your own. \nCapacity:\n5 cups |\nDimensions:\n4 by 4 by 10.5 in. |\nFilter Replacement Frequency:\n40 gallons (about two months) |\nDishwasher Safe:\nYes\nCredit: Real Simple\nCredit: Real Simple\nCredit: Real Simple\nWhat Stands Out\nIts space-saving design has an impressive 30-cup capacity, and the handles make it easy to carry.\nWhat Could Be Improved\nCleaning can be difficult if you have a smaller sink.\nPeople who don't want to refill their pitcher often or share a space with multiple household members may prefer using a water dispenser for its increased capacity and convenient spout. We recommend this filtered dispenser from Pur, which has a 30-cup capacity, a slim build that neatly tucks into your fridge, handles for easier carrying, and a robust filtration system that removes lead among other harmful contaminants.\nAfter filling the top portion of this dispenser about three-quarters of the way, it took about half an hour to filter through and filled the bottom tank up halfway. We immediately noticed an improvement in water taste and smell during our blind taste test.\nOur control tap water had a strong odor when compared with the filtered water, and the taste difference was like day and night: Our tap water tasted like chlorine while the filtered water tasted crisp and clean. We felt much more comfortable sipping on the glass that was filled by the dispenser. \nThe instructions to set up this dispenser were a breeze to follow. We had to soak the filter for 15 minutes and then scrub the pitcher, which can be separated into three sections for easier cleaning. Inserting the filter and activating the indicator light was simple as well, and the inside of the pitcher has instructions to walk you through the process.\nWashing the bottom tank was a little more awkward due to its size, so keep that in mind if you have a smaller sink. The only thing that could improve this pitcher is a max fill line, and we enthusiastically recommend it if you're looking for a large-capacity dispenser that's easy to use. \nCapacity:\n30 cups |\nDimensions:\n5 by 15 by 10 in. |\nFilter Replacement Frequency:\nEvery 40 gallons (about 2 months) |\nDishwasher Safe:\nYes\nCredit: Real Simple\nCredit: Real Simple\nCredit: Real Simple\nWhat Stands Out\nThe filter only has to be replaced twice a year, and it significantly improved the taste of our water.\nWhat Could Be Improved\nThe top tank is a little small and needs to be filled up several times before you have a full pitcher of water.\nThis water filter pitcher uses Brita Elite filters, which only need to be replaced twice a year, compared to\nevery two months for standard filters\n. In addition to removing chlorine for improved taste and smell, the activated carbon filters can remove other contaminants like cadmium and mercury, and the electronic indicator on top ensures you always know when you're due for a replacement. \nThe filtered water was noticeably better in our blind taste test. Our control water had a thicker mouthfeel and a chlorine aftertaste, but the filtered water tasted light, crisp, and refreshing—it made us actually want to\ndrink more water and stay hydrated\n. \nIn addition to improving the taste of our water, this pitcher is effortless to use. It went into our sink with no issue and fits well in the fridge despite its generous 10-cup capacity. The handle has a nice grip on it, and the pitcher is light enough to be lifted with one hand.\nAnother big plus is the easy-fill lid which has a convenient tab you can press down to open up the top reservoir, saving you from fumbling around with the lid. The only drawback is that it takes several times to fill it up all the way, but overall, this pitcher is incredibly practical and helps you cut back on the number of filters you buy. \nCapacity:\n10 cups |\nDimensions:\n10 by 6 by 10 in. |\nFilter Replacement Frequency:\nEvery 120 gallons (about 6 months) |\nDishwasher Safe:\nNo\nCredit: Real Simple\nCredit: Real Simple\nCredit: Real Simple\nCredit: Real Simple\nWhat Stands Out\nThe robust filter removes bacteria, pesticides, and heavy metals, and it does a great job of improving water taste.\nWhat Could Be Improved\nIt’s the most expensive on the list.\nThe Epic Nano Water Filter Pitcher is one of the most robust pitchers we tested, making it a great choice for well-water drinkers. It uses an NSF-approved sub-micron filter that combines nanofiber technology and powdered activated carbon to remove 99.9% of contaminants like bacteria, heavy metals, and fluoride.\nIt only needs to get replaced every 150 gallons, which is around three to four months of normal use. However, because this filter is very thorough, it did take about 12 minutes for the water in the reservoir to filter through. \nAside from its powerful filter, we were impressed with this pitcher's smart design. It boasts a 10-cup capacity yet has a compact build that can easily squeeze onto fridge shelves without cluttering them, and it has a handy LED timer that lets you know when to swap in a new filter. We also liked how light it is, even when full, and it has a nice, smooth pour. \nWe were wowed by this pitcher's ability to improve the taste of our water. While our tap tasted slightly metallic, the filtered water was fresh and clean. It improved the clarity of our tap water, removing its slight cloudiness and making it crystal clear. While pricey, we think this pitcher is well worth the cost based on its ease of use, comprehensive filter, and ability to improve water taste.\nCapacity:\n10 cups |\nDimensions:\n10 by 10 by 8 in. |\nFilter Replacement Frequency:\nEvery 150 gallons (about 3-4 months) |\nDishwasher Safe:\nNo\nCredit: Real Simple\nCredit: Real Simple\nCredit: Real Simple\nCredit: Real Simple\nFinal Verdict\nOur top pick is the\nBrita 10-Cup Rapids Stream Water Pitcher\nbecause it's easy to set up, filters water quickly, and does a great job of improving its taste. If you're looking for a pitcher with a more robust filter, we recommend the\nEpic Nano Water Filter Pitcher\n, which can remove bacteria and heavy metals from well water. \nOur Testing Process\nTo find the best water filter pitchers, we first took water samples from our New York City, Birmingham, and Des Moines offices and sent them off for analysis. We had the results analyzed by\nRick Andrew\n, principal consultant at Rick Andrew Consulting Services, who has 30 years of experience in preserving and maintaining clean drinking water.\nThough all the water turned out to be safe to drink, the water in Des Moines was the murkiest, so we tested 18 water filter pitches at that lab. For our initial test, we compared the control water (tap water) to the filtered water poured from the pitchers, taking note of what the different waters tasted and smelled like.\nAfter that, we used these pitchers for two weeks, filling them and drinking the filtered water every day. Throughout our testing period, we paid close attention to whether the pitcher made our water taste better, how easy it was to set up and use, and if the filter is worth the cost. \nCredit:\nReal Simple\nHow to Shop for Water Filter Pitchers Like a Pro\nMaterials\nThe most common materials for water filter pitchers are glass and plastic. They both have pros and cons, so the material you choose depends on your lifestyle. Plastic weighs less than glass and is more durable, so it’s ideal for people who live with small children and don’t want their pitcher to fall and shatter. On the other hand, glass is more sustainable than plastic. If you don’t mind the extra weight and fragility, a glass pitcher is a sleek and functional addition to your fridge. \nCapacity\nWater filter pitchers come in various sizes, and there isn’t one capacity necessarily better than the other. According to Ajami, “It's just a matter of how much time you have and how much water you need.”\nThe smallest pitchers have a 5- to 6-cup capacity and are ideal for those who live solo or in tight quarters. Standard pitchers will fall within the 7- to 10-cup range. But if you need to filter a lot of water, opt for a filtered dispenser that can hold up to 30 cups of water. \nFilter\nDespite the number of water filters available, Ajami says that there are more similarities between them than differences. Most water filter pitchers use activated carbon to remove contaminants.\nThe most effective type of filter is a carbon block filter, which contains activated carbon shaped into bricks. These filters have more surface area that comes in contact with the water, making them more adept at removing harmful substances, but they’re generally more expensive and can get clogged with debris. \nGranulated activated carbon filters are the most common filter type, though they are less effective because they offer less surface area. While they don’t clog as easily as a carbon block filter, they often let water trickle through after they’ve lost effectiveness. If you purchase a granulated activated carbon filter, you want to stay on top of regularly swapping out the filter.\nThe effectiveness of carbon block and granulated activated carbon filters can vary based on how slowly water trickles through each filter. While some filters only improve the taste of water and remove chlorine, others can remove VOCs, asbestos, and other substances.\nA growing number of water filter pitchers, such as the\nHydros Glass Slim Pitcher\n, use coconut shelter carbon filters. This type of filter has a larger surface area than activated carbon, so they’re more efficient at removing contaminants from water. Coconut shell carbon is a renewable resource so it’s better for the environment, and it doesn’t leave black flecks in your water either. \nIf you’re concerned about a specific contaminant, Ajami recommends using a resource like\nSimpleLab\n(she discloses that since it’s new, its database is limited) or the\nEWG\n.\nThese tools can help you find the potential contaminants in your water, so you can choose a filter that addresses your needs. Ajami cautions: “If there is a serious issue with the water source, pitchers cannot necessarily clean that up. Just because you’re using a pitcher does not mean you’ll be able to take all the lead.”\nCredit:\nReal Simple\nQuestions You Might Ask \nDo all water filter pitchers remove bacteria?\nWhile most water filter pitchers can remove contaminants such as lead, copper, and chlorine, not all possess the materials to remove bacteria. Your tap water should be treated for bacteria already, but if it’s a concern for you, you’ll want to research filters that specify bacterial removal in their products.\nMost filter companies will include testing reports on their website, so you can check how efficient they are at removing certain kinds of bacteria before purchasing. For bacteria removal, we recommend the\nEpic Nano Water Filter Pitcher\n, which has been tested to remove bacteria, giardia, cryptosporidium, and viruses.\nWho should use a water filter pitcher?\nContrary to what you may think, water filter pitchers can benefit everyone, not just those with concerns about the quality of their tap water. Ajami emphasizes that “the water that comes out of your tap is highly tested and treated,” but mentions that your filtration needs can vary “depending on which location people are in.” If your water supply has an elevated level of contaminants, using a water filter pitcher can improve its quality for peace of mind. \nAnother benefit that Ajami points out is that a water filter pitcher can\nsoften hard water\n. “If [people] are cooking or boiling water, [filtered water] would leave less marks in their pots or other kitchen appliances,\" shes says. Additionally, “people like water filter pitchers just because of the taste,” which is a bonus if you\nstruggle with drinking enough water\ndaily. \nTake Our Word for It\nThis article was written by\nJen Woo\n, a design, lifestyle, and culture writer and content strategist with over 10 years of experience. To write this article, we tested 18 water filter pitchers in our lab and evaluated them based on their improvements to the taste and smell of our tap water, ease of use, and overall value.\nWe also got expert advice on shopping for water filter pitchers from\nNewsha Ajami\n, PhD, hydrologist and director of Urban Water Policy at Stanford University, and we had the results analyzed by water consultant\nRick Andrew\n, the principal consultant at Rick Andrew Consulting Services, who has 30 years of experience in preserving and maintaining clean drinking water. ","attrs_markdown":"\n\n[Skip to content](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/best-water-filter-pitchers-6827844#main)\n\n[Real Simple](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/)\n\n- Please fill out this field.\n- Magazine\n  - [Subscribe](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/best-water-filter-pitchers-6827844)\n  - [Manage Your Subscription](https:\/\/w1.buysub.com\/pubs\/MR\/RSP\/Login_No_API.jsp?cds_page_id=226570&cds_mag_code=RSP&id=1658963908658&lsid=22081818286077739&vid=1)\n  - 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Save your favorites on MyRecipes for free.](https:\/\/www.myrecipes.com\/authentication\/login?regSource=cakmue&isMyrecipes=true)\n\nWe [independently evaluate](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/real-simple-commerce-guidelines-and-mission-6281697) all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.\n\n# We Tested Water Filter Pitchers: Here Are the 5 Best Ones\nOut of the 18 options we tested, these are our favorites for removing contaminants, aftertaste, and more.\n\nBy\n\n[Jen Woo](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/author\/jen-woo)\n\n![Jen Woo headshot]()\n\n![Jen Woo headshot](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/FdGGssmsNlEPMpp3qNANHbG--A0=\/200x200\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/Jen-Woo-2000-2d80009e54904bbb8dc0987beb30d9d8.jpg)\n\n[Jen Woo](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/author\/jen-woo)\n\nJen Woo is a writer for Real Simple. She covers design, lifestyle, and culture, and has written about tested products, including bedding, bras, and more.\n\n[Real Simple's Editorial Guidelines](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/about-us-5546943#toc-editorial-guidelines)\n\nUpdated on March 06, 2025\n\n## In This Article\nView All\n\nIn This Article\n\n- [Top Picks](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/best-water-filter-pitchers-6827844#toc-top-picks)\n- [Reviews](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/best-water-filter-pitchers-6827844#toc-reviews)\n- [Final Verdict](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/best-water-filter-pitchers-6827844#toc-final-verdict)\n- [Our Testing Process](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/best-water-filter-pitchers-6827844#toc-our-testing-process)\n- [How to Shop](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/best-water-filter-pitchers-6827844#toc-how-to-shop-for-water-filter-pitchers-like-a-pro)\n- [FAQs](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/best-water-filter-pitchers-6827844#toc-questions-you-might-ask)\n- [Take Our Word for It](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/best-water-filter-pitchers-6827844#toc-take-our-word-for-it)\n\n![A person pours water into a glass from the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/IRBtsny1cmDXizUwj0_u6-zJpN0=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-brita-water-filter-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-006-2-d94e8d98bf2c40a590542854920380b9.jpeg)\n\n![A person pours water into a glass from the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/IRBtsny1cmDXizUwj0_u6-zJpN0=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-brita-water-filter-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-006-2-d94e8d98bf2c40a590542854920380b9.jpeg)\n\nCredit:\n\nReal Simple\n\nA water filter pitcher makes it easier to have great-tasting water on hand—*without* heavy metals and contaminants—and can seriously cut back on your plastic bottle usage. Plus, we all know staying hydrated is essential to your well-being, so having the right water filter pitcher can help you hit your daily water goals in a cinch.\n\nTo help you find the best water filter pitcher for your needs, we tested 18 options in our lab and evaluated them based on their ability to improve the taste and smell of our tap water, their ease of use, and their overall value. We also consulted [Newsha Ajami](https:\/\/waterinthewest.stanford.edu\/about\/people\/newsha-ajami), PhD, hydrologist and director of Urban Water Policy at Stanford University, for water filter pitcher advice from an expert.\n\n## Top Picks\nBest Overall:\n\n[Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher at Amazon \\$50](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Brita-10060258362371-Rapids-Stream-Pitcher\/dp\/B01N3LBPYA?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844)\n\n[Jump to Review](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/best-water-filter-pitchers-6827844#toc-best-overall-brita-rapids-stream-water-pitcher)\n\nBest Small:\n\nSALE\n\n[Hydros Glass Slim Pitcher at Amazon ~~\\$24~~ \\$18](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Hydros-Filter-Powered-Seconds-Filling\/dp\/B08465HMGR?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844)\n\n[Jump to Review](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/best-water-filter-pitchers-6827844#toc-best-small-hydros-glass-slim-pitcher)\n\nBest Large:\n\nSALE\n\n[Pur Plus Dispenser at Amazon ~~\\$43~~ \\$27](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B07CRSK5KX?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844)\n\n[Jump to Review](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/best-water-filter-pitchers-6827844#toc-best-large-pur-plus-30-cup-dispenser)\n\nBest Long-Lasting Filter:\n\n[Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher at Amazon \\$41](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Brita-Drinking-Replacement-Capacity-Christmas\/dp\/B0B3BM3Z94?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844)\n\n[Jump to Review](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/best-water-filter-pitchers-6827844#toc-best-long-lasting-filter-brita-tahoe-water-pitcher-with-elite-filter)\n\nBest for Well Water:\n\n[Epic Water Filters Epic Nano at Amazon \\$79](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Epic-Water-Nanofiltration-Cryptosporidium-Pesticides\/dp\/B079VMK57F?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844)\n\n[Jump to Review](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/best-water-filter-pitchers-6827844#toc-best-for-well-water-epic-water-filters-epic-nano-water-filter-pitcher)\n\n## Best Overall\n[Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Brita-10060258362371-Rapids-Stream-Pitcher\/dp\/B01N3LBPYA?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844)\n\n[![Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/Lw6J1T3WXFn90cgManifkrPWAFM=\/fit-in\/1500x1000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/brita-rapids-stream-water-pitcher-3d933c56c73046749eeca6fece34b2be.jpg) ![Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/Lw6J1T3WXFn90cgManifkrPWAFM=\/fit-in\/1500x1000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/brita-rapids-stream-water-pitcher-3d933c56c73046749eeca6fece34b2be.jpg)](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Brita-10060258362371-Rapids-Stream-Pitcher\/dp\/B01N3LBPYA?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844)\n\nCredit: Amazon\n\n[\\$50 at Amazon](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Brita-10060258362371-Rapids-Stream-Pitcher\/dp\/B01N3LBPYA?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844)   [\\$54 at Home Depot](https:\/\/www.homedepot.com\/p\/Brita-Stream-Rapids-10-Cup-Filter-as-You-Pour-Water-Pitcher-in-Lake-Blue-with-Water-Filter-BPA-Free-6025836219\/308802802)\n\n[\\$69 \\$56 at Walmart](https:\/\/www.walmart.com\/ip\/Brita-Stream-Filter-as-You-Pour-Water-Pitcher-10-Cup-Lake-Blue\/54736200)\n\nWhat Stands Out\n\n- It filters as you pour, so you don't have to wait for the basin to fill up, and it improved the taste of our water.\n\nWhat Could Be Improved\n\n- It only removes chlorine and no other contaminants.\n\nThe Brita 10-Cup Rapids Stream Water Pitcher is our top pick because of its ease of use and performance in our testing. Setting up the pitcher was very straightforward—you just run it under cold water, clean the plastic container, and fill it up.\n\nUnlike its competitors, this pitcher filters water while you pour so you don’t have to wait ages for it to fill up. The filter began working instantly as we poured, and in no time we had a pitcher full of fresh water. It wasn't cumbersome to fill up or pour, and it fit under our sink without any hassle.\n\nWe were also impressed at this pitcher's ability to improve the taste of our water. The control water had a chlorine aftertaste, while the filtered water tasted clean and crisp thanks to Brita's activated-carbon stream filter.\n\nWe also noticed that the filtered water had a slightly clearer appearance than that of the control. However, if water quality is a major concern for you, know that this filter mostly removes chlorine and isn't equipped to filter other contaminants like heavy metals and bacteria.\n\nDuring our testing, we didn't find any drawbacks to this pitcher. Its compact size can easily fit in your refrigerator, and it's lightweight and easy to pour. It also comes with an electronic indicator on top, so you know when it's time to change the filter (around every two months).\n\n**Capacity:** 10 cups \\| **Dimensions:** 11 by 5 by 16 in. \\| **Filter Replacement Frequency:** Every 40 gallons (about 2 months) \\| **Dishwasher Safe:** No\n\n- ![The Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher on a kitchen table](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/SFRTOtTU8y4GN9slzyJWMolx3Os=\/fit-in\/1500x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-product-brita-water-filter-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-006-f022590e9a3e43a5ae4be9c7723bfa17.jpeg)\n  \n  ![The Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher on a kitchen table](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/SFRTOtTU8y4GN9slzyJWMolx3Os=\/fit-in\/1500x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-product-brita-water-filter-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-006-f022590e9a3e43a5ae4be9c7723bfa17.jpeg)\n  Credit: Real Simple\n- ![A closeup of the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher top and filter indicator]()\n  \n  ![A closeup of the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher top and filter indicator](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/Ma-KonHyMQOK6yj7LGhqP5sNpAo=\/fit-in\/1500x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-brita-water-filter-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-006-1-8657ccc8f194426c92473abf0b2f0f50.jpeg)\n  Credit: Real Simple\n- ![A person pours water into a glass from the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher]()\n  \n  ![A person pours water into a glass from the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/Qbn7Ou0VMzp7d-ozOeVYtIA3f6E=\/fit-in\/1500x2666\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-brita-water-filter-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-006-2-d94e8d98bf2c40a590542854920380b9.jpeg)\n  Credit: Real Simple\n- ![A person washes the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher]()\n  \n  ![A person washes the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/0LfDSppbvuuKquHvs2OI9gkWSt4=\/fit-in\/1500x2666\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-water-filters-test-brita-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-155-ccb588ab151c440a97a07bf9fb620bf5.jpeg)\n  Credit: Real Simple\n- ![A person holds up glasses of water filtered in the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher]()\n  \n  ![A person holds up glasses of water filtered in the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/-fAEDEo2G_EMWxjd3Ary0arSTHE=\/fit-in\/1500x2666\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-water-filters-test-brita-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-167-d290389552c6488b9f82c0a8a991e7bc.jpeg)\n  Credit: Real Simple\n\n- ![The Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher on a kitchen table](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/orTVr0tyI_iQiN8clE76qnDAZU0=\/fit-in\/200x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-product-brita-water-filter-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-006-f022590e9a3e43a5ae4be9c7723bfa17.jpeg)\n  \n  ![The Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher on a kitchen table](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/orTVr0tyI_iQiN8clE76qnDAZU0=\/fit-in\/200x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-product-brita-water-filter-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-006-f022590e9a3e43a5ae4be9c7723bfa17.jpeg)\n- ![A closeup of the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher top and filter indicator](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/pTRAZQ1ZMyMci_ecxUZbg2qggfE=\/fit-in\/200x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-brita-water-filter-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-006-1-8657ccc8f194426c92473abf0b2f0f50.jpeg)\n  \n  ![A closeup of the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher top and filter indicator](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/pTRAZQ1ZMyMci_ecxUZbg2qggfE=\/fit-in\/200x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-brita-water-filter-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-006-1-8657ccc8f194426c92473abf0b2f0f50.jpeg)\n- ![A person pours water into a glass from the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/vO6w1X1YIlQtqVgKafXuiQ-7aBA=\/fit-in\/200x2666\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-brita-water-filter-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-006-2-d94e8d98bf2c40a590542854920380b9.jpeg)\n  \n  ![A person pours water into a glass from the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/vO6w1X1YIlQtqVgKafXuiQ-7aBA=\/fit-in\/200x2666\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-brita-water-filter-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-006-2-d94e8d98bf2c40a590542854920380b9.jpeg)\n- ![A person washes the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/iwymodjF2wU-4ePKy1dbIIjIXDE=\/fit-in\/200x2666\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-water-filters-test-brita-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-155-ccb588ab151c440a97a07bf9fb620bf5.jpeg)\n  \n  ![A person washes the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/iwymodjF2wU-4ePKy1dbIIjIXDE=\/fit-in\/200x2666\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-water-filters-test-brita-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-155-ccb588ab151c440a97a07bf9fb620bf5.jpeg)\n- ![A person holds up glasses of water filtered in the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/rxpizdfJ0kTABwfar_oVUSZUfBk=\/fit-in\/200x2666\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-water-filters-test-brita-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-167-d290389552c6488b9f82c0a8a991e7bc.jpeg)\n  \n  ![A person holds up glasses of water filtered in the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/rxpizdfJ0kTABwfar_oVUSZUfBk=\/fit-in\/200x2666\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-water-filters-test-brita-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-167-d290389552c6488b9f82c0a8a991e7bc.jpeg)\n\n## Best Small\n[Hydros Glass Slim Pitcher](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Hydros-Filter-Powered-Seconds-Filling\/dp\/B08465HMGR?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844)\n\n[![Hydros Glass Slim Pitcher](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/Bk3mFGJUvIbS2VXJb0NtYAGKldw=\/fit-in\/1500x1000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/7-9837a27990e84e379ef60bb9ddc7ba47.jpg) ![Hydros Glass Slim Pitcher](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/Bk3mFGJUvIbS2VXJb0NtYAGKldw=\/fit-in\/1500x1000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/7-9837a27990e84e379ef60bb9ddc7ba47.jpg)](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Hydros-Filter-Powered-Seconds-Filling\/dp\/B08465HMGR?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844)\n\nCredit: Amazon\n\n[\\$24 \\$18 at Amazon](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Hydros-Filter-Powered-Seconds-Filling\/dp\/B08465HMGR?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844)\n\n[View on Walmart](https:\/\/www.walmart.com\/ip\/Water-Filter-Slim-Pitcher-40oz\/398951295)   [\\$37 at Hydroslife.com](https:\/\/hydroslife.com\/products\/glass-water-filter-slim-pitcher-40oz)\n\nWhat Stands Out\n\n- Its sleek, compact design saves space in the fridge, and it filters water as soon as it’s filled.\n\nWhat Could Be Improved\n\n- There’s no indicator that tells you when it’s time to replace the filter.\n\nThis small pitcher is unique because it uses a coconut shell carbon filter, which is a new type of filter. Coconut shell carbon has more porosity, which means it's more efficient at removing contaminants, and it's more environmentally friendly to manufacture. Right after we set up this pitcher, we noticed the freshly filtered water had a slight metallic aftertaste compared to our control tap water, but it disappeared after we refiltered it.\n\nThis water filter pitcher is sleek in design. It's slender at less than 5 inches wide, and we were able to fill it up with one hand which was quite convenient. Even though it doesn't have a handle, it wasn’t difficult to grasp and had a smooth pour.\n\nWhile we liked that the pitcher is made entirely out of glass for sustainability and easy cleaning, we wouldn't recommend this filter for someone living with small kids because it could easily break. Additionally, its smaller size means it has to get filled up more frequently, which may become a hassle if you live with others.\n\nWe were especially impressed with the speed at which the filter worked, immediately filling up as our tap water entered its filter. However, there aren't any indicators that let you know when to replace the filter, so you'll need to set up reminders on your own.\n\n**Capacity:** 5 cups \\| **Dimensions:** 4 by 4 by 10.5 in. \\| **Filter Replacement Frequency:** 40 gallons (about two months) \\| **Dishwasher Safe:** Yes\n\n- ![The Hydros Glass Slim Pitcher on a table](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/-_vEnEi0-0pHPWwb_SPP2Mv49rI=\/fit-in\/1500x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-product-hydros-40-oz-water-filter-slim-pitcher-dburreson-008-9cf915275d61483db3a9fe28e1067388.jpeg)\n  \n  ![The Hydros Glass Slim Pitcher on a table](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/-_vEnEi0-0pHPWwb_SPP2Mv49rI=\/fit-in\/1500x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-product-hydros-40-oz-water-filter-slim-pitcher-dburreson-008-9cf915275d61483db3a9fe28e1067388.jpeg)\n  Credit: Real Simple\n- ![Hydros pouring water into a glass]()\n  \n  ![Hydros pouring water into a glass](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/4-PJbIO62iblFGSA_Yvye4f91yU=\/fit-in\/1500x2666\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-hydros-40-oz-water-filter-slim-pitcher-dburreson-008-2-24bef2a89bd54042a0e1081c0a6c977c.jpeg)\n  Credit: Real Simple\n- ![A Hand opening Hydros]()\n  \n  ![A Hand opening Hydros](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/mkH9EvRT_CsN5IDnjDWEExIBqkw=\/fit-in\/1500x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-hydros-40-oz-water-filter-slim-pitcher-dburreson-008-1-8dd7641f13ec42d5a7bd27f23a27e545.jpeg)\n  Credit: Real Simple\n\n- ![The Hydros Glass Slim Pitcher on a table](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/YazPopdUmNULeJEd1EAIf07ijco=\/fit-in\/200x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-product-hydros-40-oz-water-filter-slim-pitcher-dburreson-008-9cf915275d61483db3a9fe28e1067388.jpeg)\n  \n  ![The Hydros Glass Slim Pitcher on a table](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/YazPopdUmNULeJEd1EAIf07ijco=\/fit-in\/200x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-product-hydros-40-oz-water-filter-slim-pitcher-dburreson-008-9cf915275d61483db3a9fe28e1067388.jpeg)\n- ![Hydros pouring water into a glass](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/9W1H-SxTnKo8wJSON1QSBmdKqRI=\/fit-in\/200x2666\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-hydros-40-oz-water-filter-slim-pitcher-dburreson-008-2-24bef2a89bd54042a0e1081c0a6c977c.jpeg)\n  \n  ![Hydros pouring water into a glass](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/9W1H-SxTnKo8wJSON1QSBmdKqRI=\/fit-in\/200x2666\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-hydros-40-oz-water-filter-slim-pitcher-dburreson-008-2-24bef2a89bd54042a0e1081c0a6c977c.jpeg)\n- ![A Hand opening Hydros](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/72fMbMFzB91gY3NOANzb39hrAWs=\/fit-in\/200x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-hydros-40-oz-water-filter-slim-pitcher-dburreson-008-1-8dd7641f13ec42d5a7bd27f23a27e545.jpeg)\n  \n  ![A Hand opening Hydros](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/72fMbMFzB91gY3NOANzb39hrAWs=\/fit-in\/200x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-hydros-40-oz-water-filter-slim-pitcher-dburreson-008-1-8dd7641f13ec42d5a7bd27f23a27e545.jpeg)\n\n## Best Large\n[Pur Plus Dispenser](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B07CRSK5KX?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844)\n\n[![Amazon Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/-ovk_V39fmlBFSlhr13xel0yAsw=\/fit-in\/1500x1000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/pur-ds1811z-ultimate-30-cup-water-filter-dispenser-3aa96ee63ca84aa8b9323b432a4db938.jpg) ![Amazon Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/-ovk_V39fmlBFSlhr13xel0yAsw=\/fit-in\/1500x1000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/pur-ds1811z-ultimate-30-cup-water-filter-dispenser-3aa96ee63ca84aa8b9323b432a4db938.jpg)](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B07CRSK5KX?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844)\n\nCredit: Amazon\n\n[\\$43 \\$27 at Amazon](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B07CRSK5KX?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844)\n\n[\\$27 at Target](https:\/\/www.target.com\/p\/pur-ultimate-30-cup-dispenser-with-lead-reduction\/-\/A-53152142)   [\\$27 at Pur.com](https:\/\/www.pur.com\/shop\/dispensers\/pur-plus-30-cup-dispenser)\n\nWhat Stands Out\n\n- Its space-saving design has an impressive 30-cup capacity, and the handles make it easy to carry.\n\nWhat Could Be Improved\n\n- Cleaning can be difficult if you have a smaller sink.\n\nPeople who don't want to refill their pitcher often or share a space with multiple household members may prefer using a water dispenser for its increased capacity and convenient spout. We recommend this filtered dispenser from Pur, which has a 30-cup capacity, a slim build that neatly tucks into your fridge, handles for easier carrying, and a robust filtration system that removes lead among other harmful contaminants.\n\nAfter filling the top portion of this dispenser about three-quarters of the way, it took about half an hour to filter through and filled the bottom tank up halfway. We immediately noticed an improvement in water taste and smell during our blind taste test.\n\nOur control tap water had a strong odor when compared with the filtered water, and the taste difference was like day and night: Our tap water tasted like chlorine while the filtered water tasted crisp and clean. We felt much more comfortable sipping on the glass that was filled by the dispenser.\n\nThe instructions to set up this dispenser were a breeze to follow. We had to soak the filter for 15 minutes and then scrub the pitcher, which can be separated into three sections for easier cleaning. Inserting the filter and activating the indicator light was simple as well, and the inside of the pitcher has instructions to walk you through the process.\n\nWashing the bottom tank was a little more awkward due to its size, so keep that in mind if you have a smaller sink. The only thing that could improve this pitcher is a max fill line, and we enthusiastically recommend it if you're looking for a large-capacity dispenser that's easy to use.\n\n**Capacity:** 30 cups \\| **Dimensions:** 5 by 15 by 10 in. \\| **Filter Replacement Frequency:** Every 40 gallons (about 2 months) \\| **Dishwasher Safe:** Yes\n\n- ![The Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser on a table](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/gY5zEjpijVYDNWcW6az7VDIznow=\/fit-in\/1500x2666\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-product-pur-plus-30-cup-dispenser-dburreson-003-8a9ab4cd4b3f4d0fae6dc9e6cae92a82.jpeg)\n  \n  ![The Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser on a table](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/gY5zEjpijVYDNWcW6az7VDIznow=\/fit-in\/1500x2666\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-product-pur-plus-30-cup-dispenser-dburreson-003-8a9ab4cd4b3f4d0fae6dc9e6cae92a82.jpeg)\n  Credit: Real Simple\n- ![A person presses the dispenser on the Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser]()\n  \n  ![A person presses the dispenser on the Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/dbDJAmV_bf-xrokQcTfNzpYeLKg=\/fit-in\/1500x2666\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-pur-plus-30-cup-dispenser-dburreson-003-2-2b5047ab2e454a3cb64397cdf31c614f.jpeg)\n  Credit: Real Simple\n- ![A person drinks water filtered in the Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser while blindfolded]()\n  \n  ![A person drinks water filtered in the Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser while blindfolded](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/KETmriBazbNBINhFEyyFfVpGLdQ=\/fit-in\/1500x2666\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-water-filters-test-pur-plus-30-cup-dispenser-dburreson-61-3a6a6cc06faa4a5f955a0344b07bb2e0.jpeg)\n  Credit: Real Simple\n\n- ![The Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser on a table](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/CcgczWRSzLOPGT01lKm5N1VIilA=\/fit-in\/200x2666\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-product-pur-plus-30-cup-dispenser-dburreson-003-8a9ab4cd4b3f4d0fae6dc9e6cae92a82.jpeg)\n  \n  ![The Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser on a table](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/CcgczWRSzLOPGT01lKm5N1VIilA=\/fit-in\/200x2666\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-product-pur-plus-30-cup-dispenser-dburreson-003-8a9ab4cd4b3f4d0fae6dc9e6cae92a82.jpeg)\n- ![A person presses the dispenser on the Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/FyAopSV5DycpP6m6J-epBDbO564=\/fit-in\/200x2666\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-pur-plus-30-cup-dispenser-dburreson-003-2-2b5047ab2e454a3cb64397cdf31c614f.jpeg)\n  \n  ![A person presses the dispenser on the Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/FyAopSV5DycpP6m6J-epBDbO564=\/fit-in\/200x2666\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-pur-plus-30-cup-dispenser-dburreson-003-2-2b5047ab2e454a3cb64397cdf31c614f.jpeg)\n- ![A person drinks water filtered in the Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser while blindfolded](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/8nRMoNpoOPLz-HbA8zsf7-NfnW0=\/fit-in\/200x2666\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-water-filters-test-pur-plus-30-cup-dispenser-dburreson-61-3a6a6cc06faa4a5f955a0344b07bb2e0.jpeg)\n  \n  ![A person drinks water filtered in the Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser while blindfolded](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/8nRMoNpoOPLz-HbA8zsf7-NfnW0=\/fit-in\/200x2666\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-water-filters-test-pur-plus-30-cup-dispenser-dburreson-61-3a6a6cc06faa4a5f955a0344b07bb2e0.jpeg)\n\n## Best Long-Lasting Filter\n[Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Brita-Drinking-Replacement-Capacity-Christmas\/dp\/B0B3BM3Z94?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844)\n\n[![Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher With Elite Filter](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/JM8n7Q5RKmr_vmKR7c4HFHOpvgM=\/fit-in\/1500x1000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/brita-tahoe-pitcher-006b0d9605ac47c4b7e7c54eec05c031.jpg) ![Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher With Elite Filter](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/JM8n7Q5RKmr_vmKR7c4HFHOpvgM=\/fit-in\/1500x1000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/brita-tahoe-pitcher-006b0d9605ac47c4b7e7c54eec05c031.jpg)](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Brita-Drinking-Replacement-Capacity-Christmas\/dp\/B0B3BM3Z94?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844)\n\nCredit: Amazon\n\n[\\$41 at Amazon](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Brita-Drinking-Replacement-Capacity-Christmas\/dp\/B0B3BM3Z94?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844)   [\\$41 at Target](https:\/\/www.target.com\/p\/brita-water-filter-10-cup-tahoe-water-pitcher-dispenser-with-elite-water-filter-black\/-\/A-84665989)   [\\$41 at Home Depot](https:\/\/www.homedepot.com\/p\/Brita-Tahoe-10-Cup-Large-Water-Filter-Pitcher-in-White-with-1-Elite-Filter-6025850688\/320327382)\n\nWhat Stands Out\n\n- The filter only has to be replaced twice a year, and it significantly improved the taste of our water.\n\nWhat Could Be Improved\n\n- The top tank is a little small and needs to be filled up several times before you have a full pitcher of water.\n\nThis water filter pitcher uses Brita Elite filters, which only need to be replaced twice a year, compared to [every two months for standard filters](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/home-organizing\/cleaning\/how-long-do-brita-filters-last). In addition to removing chlorine for improved taste and smell, the activated carbon filters can remove other contaminants like cadmium and mercury, and the electronic indicator on top ensures you always know when you're due for a replacement.\n\nThe filtered water was noticeably better in our blind taste test. Our control water had a thicker mouthfeel and a chlorine aftertaste, but the filtered water tasted light, crisp, and refreshing—it made us actually want to [drink more water and stay hydrated](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/how-to-drink-more-water-7495589).\n\nIn addition to improving the taste of our water, this pitcher is effortless to use. It went into our sink with no issue and fits well in the fridge despite its generous 10-cup capacity. The handle has a nice grip on it, and the pitcher is light enough to be lifted with one hand.\n\nAnother big plus is the easy-fill lid which has a convenient tab you can press down to open up the top reservoir, saving you from fumbling around with the lid. The only drawback is that it takes several times to fill it up all the way, but overall, this pitcher is incredibly practical and helps you cut back on the number of filters you buy.\n\n**Capacity:** 10 cups \\| **Dimensions:** 10 by 6 by 10 in. \\| **Filter Replacement Frequency:** Every 120 gallons (about 6 months) \\| **Dishwasher Safe:** No\n\n- ![The Brita Water Pitcher pouring water into a glass](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/U7M_0Y3NcB2-jh4ZuYPbI5UXybA=\/fit-in\/1500x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-brita-tahoe-water-pitcher-elite-filter-dburreson-004-2-a64af522cc1842e6a1ce514f8cf319ed.jpeg)\n  \n  ![The Brita Water Pitcher pouring water into a glass](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/U7M_0Y3NcB2-jh4ZuYPbI5UXybA=\/fit-in\/1500x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-brita-tahoe-water-pitcher-elite-filter-dburreson-004-2-a64af522cc1842e6a1ce514f8cf319ed.jpeg)\n  Credit: Real Simple\n- ![A person places a filter into the Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher with Elite Filter]()\n  \n  ![A person places a filter into the Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher with Elite Filter](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/KXlx6sBOukGbLXtabFxadgWxIzU=\/fit-in\/1500x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-water-filters-test-brita-tahoe-pitcher-elite-dburreson-98-d2c452c2d54349ec8b1be27d2a62eebc.jpeg)\n  Credit: Real Simple\n- ![A person lifts up the Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher with Elite Filter]()\n  \n  ![A person lifts up the Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher with Elite Filter](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/jaPN_y-RsdBS7QTEoJqBX_N-Rrk=\/fit-in\/1500x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-water-filters-test-brita-tahoe-pitcher-elite-dburreson-103-a5144230f2cf4ee083a7f245c85b9604.jpeg)\n  Credit: Real Simple\n- ![A person opens the top on the Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher with Elite Filter]()\n  \n  ![A person opens the top on the Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher with Elite Filter](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/ix5EkYmaLgDfOyp5t2S21eNyv2k=\/fit-in\/1500x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-brita-tahoe-water-pitcher-elite-filter-dburreson-004-1-f86fa66df92b4738a132ca0abcdbb7ac.jpeg)\n  Credit: Real Simple\n\n- ![The Brita Water Pitcher pouring water into a glass](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/y59Ayow9vq2e9WP8QmHkM0sMI3k=\/fit-in\/200x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-brita-tahoe-water-pitcher-elite-filter-dburreson-004-2-a64af522cc1842e6a1ce514f8cf319ed.jpeg)\n  \n  ![The Brita Water Pitcher pouring water into a glass](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/y59Ayow9vq2e9WP8QmHkM0sMI3k=\/fit-in\/200x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-brita-tahoe-water-pitcher-elite-filter-dburreson-004-2-a64af522cc1842e6a1ce514f8cf319ed.jpeg)\n- ![A person places a filter into the Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher with Elite Filter](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/Mgo0IjHlIgP6ZBwT6FH3MVA7BZA=\/fit-in\/200x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-water-filters-test-brita-tahoe-pitcher-elite-dburreson-98-d2c452c2d54349ec8b1be27d2a62eebc.jpeg)\n  \n  ![A person places a filter into the Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher with Elite Filter](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/Mgo0IjHlIgP6ZBwT6FH3MVA7BZA=\/fit-in\/200x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-water-filters-test-brita-tahoe-pitcher-elite-dburreson-98-d2c452c2d54349ec8b1be27d2a62eebc.jpeg)\n- ![A person lifts up the Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher with Elite Filter](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/rLu9Kwj_kn6Iy6IeGMOjzBo2Fgg=\/fit-in\/200x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-water-filters-test-brita-tahoe-pitcher-elite-dburreson-103-a5144230f2cf4ee083a7f245c85b9604.jpeg)\n  \n  ![A person lifts up the Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher with Elite Filter](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/rLu9Kwj_kn6Iy6IeGMOjzBo2Fgg=\/fit-in\/200x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-water-filters-test-brita-tahoe-pitcher-elite-dburreson-103-a5144230f2cf4ee083a7f245c85b9604.jpeg)\n- ![A person opens the top on the Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher with Elite Filter](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/KTttxhBjN8iz_5a_0LmfskNOlxM=\/fit-in\/200x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-brita-tahoe-water-pitcher-elite-filter-dburreson-004-1-f86fa66df92b4738a132ca0abcdbb7ac.jpeg)\n  \n  ![A person opens the top on the Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher with Elite Filter](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/KTttxhBjN8iz_5a_0LmfskNOlxM=\/fit-in\/200x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-brita-tahoe-water-pitcher-elite-filter-dburreson-004-1-f86fa66df92b4738a132ca0abcdbb7ac.jpeg)\n\n## Best for Well Water\n[Epic Water Filters Epic Nano](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Epic-Water-Nanofiltration-Cryptosporidium-Pesticides\/dp\/B079VMK57F?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844)\n\n[![Epic Water Filters Epic Nano Water Filter Pitcher](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/NlGa4P638fOFc65XN-Vb2Z3GaRk=\/fit-in\/1500x1000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/Epic-Nano-Water-Filter-Pitcher-e9ea6bbbcf4c4348932ef0d4b8a4f370.jpg) ![Epic Water Filters Epic Nano Water Filter Pitcher](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/NlGa4P638fOFc65XN-Vb2Z3GaRk=\/fit-in\/1500x1000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/Epic-Nano-Water-Filter-Pitcher-e9ea6bbbcf4c4348932ef0d4b8a4f370.jpg)](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Epic-Water-Nanofiltration-Cryptosporidium-Pesticides\/dp\/B079VMK57F?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844)\n\nCredit: Amazon\n\n[\\$79 at Amazon](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Epic-Water-Nanofiltration-Cryptosporidium-Pesticides\/dp\/B079VMK57F?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844)   [\\$79 at Epicwaterfilters.com](https:\/\/www.epicwaterfilters.com\/products\/epic-nano-water-filter-pitcher-navy-blue-removes-bacteria-virus-cysts)\n\nWhat Stands Out\n\n- The robust filter removes bacteria, pesticides, and heavy metals, and it does a great job of improving water taste.\n\nWhat Could Be Improved\n\n- It’s the most expensive on the list.\n\nThe Epic Nano Water Filter Pitcher is one of the most robust pitchers we tested, making it a great choice for well-water drinkers. It uses an NSF-approved sub-micron filter that combines nanofiber technology and powdered activated carbon to remove 99.9% of contaminants like bacteria, heavy metals, and fluoride.\n\nIt only needs to get replaced every 150 gallons, which is around three to four months of normal use. However, because this filter is very thorough, it did take about 12 minutes for the water in the reservoir to filter through.\n\nAside from its powerful filter, we were impressed with this pitcher's smart design. It boasts a 10-cup capacity yet has a compact build that can easily squeeze onto fridge shelves without cluttering them, and it has a handy LED timer that lets you know when to swap in a new filter. We also liked how light it is, even when full, and it has a nice, smooth pour.\n\nWe were wowed by this pitcher's ability to improve the taste of our water. While our tap tasted slightly metallic, the filtered water was fresh and clean. It improved the clarity of our tap water, removing its slight cloudiness and making it crystal clear. While pricey, we think this pitcher is well worth the cost based on its ease of use, comprehensive filter, and ability to improve water taste.\n\n**Capacity:** 10 cups \\| **Dimensions:** 10 by 10 by 8 in. \\| **Filter Replacement Frequency:** Every 150 gallons (about 3-4 months) \\| **Dishwasher Safe:** No\n\n- ![The Epic Water Filter Pitcher on a table]()\n  \n  ![The Epic Water Filter Pitcher on a table](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/QdL-ZWzqBxMj767UgDzQ80qlfg8=\/fit-in\/1500x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-product-epic-water-nano-filter-dburreson-011-7fc00e0e497d4477916b27e90a27e910.jpeg)\n  Credit: Real Simple\n- ![A person pours water from the Epic Water Filter Pitcher into a glass]()\n  \n  ![A person pours water from the Epic Water Filter Pitcher into a glass](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/SdRKvcnMXlsFfnB7DFSwk1uBNug=\/fit-in\/1500x2666\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-epic-water-nano-filter-dburreson-011-2-ce8e4277d1694e2da0ca6a0d925cf74b.jpeg)\n  Credit: Real Simple\n- ![The Epic Water Filter Pitcher top and indicator]()\n  \n  ![The Epic Water Filter Pitcher top and indicator](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/_8SaLBLrE4P5HrHgveVwX_1KoNk=\/fit-in\/1500x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-epic-water-nano-filter-dburreson-011-1-41b6705f05d048f386698fb33541b408.jpeg)\n  Credit: Real Simple\n- ![A person pours water into the Epic Water Filter Pitcher]()\n  \n  ![A person pours water into the Epic Water Filter Pitcher](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/3sCjZaRgKzLTl0K9A3RbCzHZXDw=\/fit-in\/1500x2666\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-water-filters-test-epic-nano-dburreson-318-54db436c128d4eef9165d3b7705a6dbd.jpeg)\n  Credit: Real Simple\n\n- ![The Epic Water Filter Pitcher on a table]()\n  \n  ![The Epic Water Filter Pitcher on a table](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/R9ELInr1slcKN3wYbS9YMaGDglk=\/fit-in\/200x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-product-epic-water-nano-filter-dburreson-011-7fc00e0e497d4477916b27e90a27e910.jpeg)\n- ![A person pours water from the Epic Water Filter Pitcher into a glass]()\n  \n  ![A person pours water from the Epic Water Filter Pitcher into a glass](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/e6xUBiXRbz7cvX7hKPoCw7QACUE=\/fit-in\/200x2666\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-epic-water-nano-filter-dburreson-011-2-ce8e4277d1694e2da0ca6a0d925cf74b.jpeg)\n- ![The Epic Water Filter Pitcher top and indicator]()\n  \n  ![The Epic Water Filter Pitcher top and indicator](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/7qCFEkuRhXPldOXYZHnVfQh80Rg=\/fit-in\/200x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-epic-water-nano-filter-dburreson-011-1-41b6705f05d048f386698fb33541b408.jpeg)\n- ![A person pours water into the Epic Water Filter Pitcher]()\n  \n  ![A person pours water into the Epic Water Filter Pitcher](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/zy69c8XGmGEmQ7PphvuvgT32fec=\/fit-in\/200x2666\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-water-filters-test-epic-nano-dburreson-318-54db436c128d4eef9165d3b7705a6dbd.jpeg)\n\n## Final Verdict\nOur top pick is the [Brita 10-Cup Rapids Stream Water Pitcher](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Brita-10060258362371-Rapids-Stream-Pitcher\/dp\/B01N3LBPYA?ascsubtag=6827844&tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20) because it's easy to set up, filters water quickly, and does a great job of improving its taste. If you're looking for a pitcher with a more robust filter, we recommend the [Epic Nano Water Filter Pitcher](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Epic-Water-Nanofiltration-Cryptosporidium-Pesticides\/dp\/B079VMK57F?th=1&tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844), which can remove bacteria and heavy metals from well water.\n\n## Our Testing Process\nTo find the best water filter pitchers, we first took water samples from our New York City, Birmingham, and Des Moines offices and sent them off for analysis. We had the results analyzed by [Rick Andrew](https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/rickandrew\/), principal consultant at Rick Andrew Consulting Services, who has 30 years of experience in preserving and maintaining clean drinking water.\n\nThough all the water turned out to be safe to drink, the water in Des Moines was the murkiest, so we tested 18 water filter pitches at that lab. For our initial test, we compared the control water (tap water) to the filtered water poured from the pitchers, taking note of what the different waters tasted and smelled like.\n\nAfter that, we used these pitchers for two weeks, filling them and drinking the filtered water every day. Throughout our testing period, we paid close attention to whether the pitcher made our water taste better, how easy it was to set up and use, and if the filter is worth the cost.\n\n![hand holds the Pur Classic 11-Cup Water Filter Pitcher to fill with tap water]()\n\n![hand holds the Pur Classic 11-Cup Water Filter Pitcher to fill with tap water](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/XP0GucTIeAC5qWutsHcpa-5ShMY=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-water-filters-test-pur-classic-11-cup-dburreson-38-5f9d4064c51a412faa998e68d4fe5ebe.jpeg)\n\nCredit:\n\nReal Simple\n## How to Shop for Water Filter Pitchers Like a Pro\n### Materials\nThe most common materials for water filter pitchers are glass and plastic. They both have pros and cons, so the material you choose depends on your lifestyle. Plastic weighs less than glass and is more durable, so it’s ideal for people who live with small children and don’t want their pitcher to fall and shatter. On the other hand, glass is more sustainable than plastic. If you don’t mind the extra weight and fragility, a glass pitcher is a sleek and functional addition to your fridge.\n\n### Capacity\nWater filter pitchers come in various sizes, and there isn’t one capacity necessarily better than the other. According to Ajami, “It's just a matter of how much time you have and how much water you need.”\n\nThe smallest pitchers have a 5- to 6-cup capacity and are ideal for those who live solo or in tight quarters. Standard pitchers will fall within the 7- to 10-cup range. But if you need to filter a lot of water, opt for a filtered dispenser that can hold up to 30 cups of water.\n\n### Filter\nDespite the number of water filters available, Ajami says that there are more similarities between them than differences. Most water filter pitchers use activated carbon to remove contaminants.\n\nThe most effective type of filter is a carbon block filter, which contains activated carbon shaped into bricks. These filters have more surface area that comes in contact with the water, making them more adept at removing harmful substances, but they’re generally more expensive and can get clogged with debris.\n\nGranulated activated carbon filters are the most common filter type, though they are less effective because they offer less surface area. While they don’t clog as easily as a carbon block filter, they often let water trickle through after they’ve lost effectiveness. If you purchase a granulated activated carbon filter, you want to stay on top of regularly swapping out the filter.\n\nThe effectiveness of carbon block and granulated activated carbon filters can vary based on how slowly water trickles through each filter. While some filters only improve the taste of water and remove chlorine, others can remove VOCs, asbestos, and other substances.\n\nA growing number of water filter pitchers, such as the [Hydros Glass Slim Pitcher](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Hydros-Pitcher-Powered-Fill-Up-Capacity\/dp\/B09J1RL7V8\/?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844), use coconut shelter carbon filters. This type of filter has a larger surface area than activated carbon, so they’re more efficient at removing contaminants from water. Coconut shell carbon is a renewable resource so it’s better for the environment, and it doesn’t leave black flecks in your water either.\n\nIf you’re concerned about a specific contaminant, Ajami recommends using a resource like [SimpleLab](https:\/\/www.gosimplelab.com\/data\/water) (she discloses that since it’s new, its database is limited) or the [EWG](https:\/\/www.ewg.org\/tapwater\/).\n\nThese tools can help you find the potential contaminants in your water, so you can choose a filter that addresses your needs. Ajami cautions: “If there is a serious issue with the water source, pitchers cannot necessarily clean that up. Just because you’re using a pitcher does not mean you’ll be able to take all the lead.”\n\n![A person smells water filtered in the ZeroWater 12-Cup Ready-Pour 5-Stage Water Filter Pitcher]()\n\n![A person smells water filtered in the ZeroWater 12-Cup Ready-Pour 5-Stage Water Filter Pitcher](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/Axx942d7qryEAqQVUkH9XkqoBwI=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-water-filters-test-zerowater-12-cup-ready-pour-pitcher-dburreson-265-66930db2dc094dce8fdc7b34870623b0.jpeg)\n\nCredit:\n\nReal Simple\n## Questions You Might Ask\n### Do all water filter pitchers remove bacteria?\nWhile most water filter pitchers can remove contaminants such as lead, copper, and chlorine, not all possess the materials to remove bacteria. Your tap water should be treated for bacteria already, but if it’s a concern for you, you’ll want to research filters that specify bacterial removal in their products.\n\nMost filter companies will include testing reports on their website, so you can check how efficient they are at removing certain kinds of bacteria before purchasing. For bacteria removal, we recommend the [Epic Nano Water Filter Pitcher](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Epic-Water-Pitchers-Drinking-Bacteria\/dp\/B08NLBYZPY?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844), which has been tested to remove bacteria, giardia, cryptosporidium, and viruses.\n\n### Who should use a water filter pitcher?\nContrary to what you may think, water filter pitchers can benefit everyone, not just those with concerns about the quality of their tap water. Ajami emphasizes that “the water that comes out of your tap is highly tested and treated,” but mentions that your filtration needs can vary “depending on which location people are in.” If your water supply has an elevated level of contaminants, using a water filter pitcher can improve its quality for peace of mind.\n\nAnother benefit that Ajami points out is that a water filter pitcher can [soften hard water](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/beauty-fashion\/skincare\/hard-water-skin). “If \\[people\\] are cooking or boiling water, \\[filtered water\\] would leave less marks in their pots or other kitchen appliances,\" shes says. Additionally, “people like water filter pitchers just because of the taste,” which is a bonus if you [struggle with drinking enough water](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/health\/how-much-water-to-drink-day) daily.\n\n## Take Our Word for It\nThis article was written by [Jen Woo](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/author\/jen-woo), a design, lifestyle, and culture writer and content strategist with over 10 years of experience. To write this article, we tested 18 water filter pitchers in our lab and evaluated them based on their improvements to the taste and smell of our tap water, ease of use, and overall value.\n\nWe also got expert advice on shopping for water filter pitchers from [Newsha Ajami](https:\/\/waterinthewest.stanford.edu\/about\/people\/newsha-ajami), PhD, hydrologist and director of Urban Water Policy at Stanford University, and we had the results analyzed by water consultant [Rick Andrew](https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/rickandrew\/), the principal consultant at Rick Andrew Consulting Services, who has 30 years of experience in preserving and maintaining clean drinking water.\n\n[How Much Water Should You Drink a Day? Plus Signs You're Hydrated](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/health\/how-much-water-to-drink-day)\n\nExplore more:\n\n- [Shopping](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/shopping-6375141)\n- [Kitchen Products](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/food-product-reviews-8648459)\n- [Tabletop Products](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/tabletop-product-reviews-8648468)\n\nWas this page helpful?\n\nThanks for your feedback\\!\n\nTell us why\\!\n\nOther\n\n## Related Articles\n[![Hands stacking DOWAN Pasta Bowls on a green table]() ![Hands stacking DOWAN Pasta Bowls on a green table](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/Fi4EYfYC3evRvuZNXMQN0zSZQf4=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rs-shallow-pasta-bowls-tout-8270353a954140c39270166f4c8265ba.jpg) I Wanted Le Creuset Bowls, but Found These Blates With 3,000 5-Star Ratings for Half the Price](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/dowan-blate-set-amazon-deal-october-2025-11820081)\n\n[![Stanley Early Black Friday Sale]() ![Stanley Early Black 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Us](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/about-us-5546943#toc-contacts)\n\nReal Simple is part of the [People Inc.](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/) publishing family.\n\nMyrecipes Dialog\n\nNewsletter Sign Up\n\nNewsletter Sign Up\n\n![]()","attrs_readable_markdown":"A water filter pitcher makes it easier to have great-tasting water on hand—*without* heavy metals and contaminants—and can seriously cut back on your plastic bottle usage. Plus, we all know staying hydrated is essential to your well-being, so having the right water filter pitcher can help you hit your daily water goals in a cinch.\n\nTo help you find the best water filter pitcher for your needs, we tested 18 options in our lab and evaluated them based on their ability to improve the taste and smell of our tap water, their ease of use, and their overall value. We also consulted [Newsha Ajami](https:\/\/waterinthewest.stanford.edu\/about\/people\/newsha-ajami), PhD, hydrologist and director of Urban Water Policy at Stanford University, for water filter pitcher advice from an expert.\n\nWhat Stands Out\n\n- It filters as you pour, so you don't have to wait for the basin to fill up, and it improved the taste of our water.\n\nWhat Could Be Improved\n\n- It only removes chlorine and no other contaminants.\n\nThe Brita 10-Cup Rapids Stream Water Pitcher is our top pick because of its ease of use and performance in our testing. Setting up the pitcher was very straightforward—you just run it under cold water, clean the plastic container, and fill it up.\n\nUnlike its competitors, this pitcher filters water while you pour so you don’t have to wait ages for it to fill up. The filter began working instantly as we poured, and in no time we had a pitcher full of fresh water. It wasn't cumbersome to fill up or pour, and it fit under our sink without any hassle.\n\nWe were also impressed at this pitcher's ability to improve the taste of our water. The control water had a chlorine aftertaste, while the filtered water tasted clean and crisp thanks to Brita's activated-carbon stream filter.\n\nWe also noticed that the filtered water had a slightly clearer appearance than that of the control. However, if water quality is a major concern for you, know that this filter mostly removes chlorine and isn't equipped to filter other contaminants like heavy metals and bacteria.\n\nDuring our testing, we didn't find any drawbacks to this pitcher. Its compact size can easily fit in your refrigerator, and it's lightweight and easy to pour. It also comes with an electronic indicator on top, so you know when it's time to change the filter (around every two months).\n\n**Capacity:** 10 cups \\| **Dimensions:** 11 by 5 by 16 in. \\| **Filter Replacement Frequency:** Every 40 gallons (about 2 months) \\| **Dishwasher Safe:** No\n\n- ![The Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher on a kitchen table](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/SFRTOtTU8y4GN9slzyJWMolx3Os=\/fit-in\/1500x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-product-brita-water-filter-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-006-f022590e9a3e43a5ae4be9c7723bfa17.jpeg)\n  Credit: Real Simple\n- ![A closeup of the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher top and filter indicator](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/Ma-KonHyMQOK6yj7LGhqP5sNpAo=\/fit-in\/1500x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-brita-water-filter-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-006-1-8657ccc8f194426c92473abf0b2f0f50.jpeg)\n  Credit: Real Simple\n- ![A person pours water into a glass from the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/Qbn7Ou0VMzp7d-ozOeVYtIA3f6E=\/fit-in\/1500x2666\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-brita-water-filter-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-006-2-d94e8d98bf2c40a590542854920380b9.jpeg)\n  Credit: Real Simple\n- ![A person washes the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/0LfDSppbvuuKquHvs2OI9gkWSt4=\/fit-in\/1500x2666\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-water-filters-test-brita-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-155-ccb588ab151c440a97a07bf9fb620bf5.jpeg)\n  Credit: Real Simple\n- ![A person holds up glasses of water filtered in the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/-fAEDEo2G_EMWxjd3Ary0arSTHE=\/fit-in\/1500x2666\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-water-filters-test-brita-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-167-d290389552c6488b9f82c0a8a991e7bc.jpeg)\n  Credit: Real Simple\n\n- ![The Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher on a kitchen table](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/orTVr0tyI_iQiN8clE76qnDAZU0=\/fit-in\/200x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-product-brita-water-filter-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-006-f022590e9a3e43a5ae4be9c7723bfa17.jpeg)\n- ![A closeup of the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher top and filter indicator](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/pTRAZQ1ZMyMci_ecxUZbg2qggfE=\/fit-in\/200x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-brita-water-filter-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-006-1-8657ccc8f194426c92473abf0b2f0f50.jpeg)\n- ![A person pours water into a glass from the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/vO6w1X1YIlQtqVgKafXuiQ-7aBA=\/fit-in\/200x2666\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-brita-water-filter-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-006-2-d94e8d98bf2c40a590542854920380b9.jpeg)\n- ![A person washes the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/iwymodjF2wU-4ePKy1dbIIjIXDE=\/fit-in\/200x2666\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-water-filters-test-brita-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-155-ccb588ab151c440a97a07bf9fb620bf5.jpeg)\n- ![A person holds up glasses of water filtered in the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/rxpizdfJ0kTABwfar_oVUSZUfBk=\/fit-in\/200x2666\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-water-filters-test-brita-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-167-d290389552c6488b9f82c0a8a991e7bc.jpeg)\n\nWhat Stands Out\n\n- Its sleek, compact design saves space in the fridge, and it filters water as soon as it’s filled.\n\nWhat Could Be Improved\n\n- There’s no indicator that tells you when it’s time to replace the filter.\n\nThis small pitcher is unique because it uses a coconut shell carbon filter, which is a new type of filter. Coconut shell carbon has more porosity, which means it's more efficient at removing contaminants, and it's more environmentally friendly to manufacture. Right after we set up this pitcher, we noticed the freshly filtered water had a slight metallic aftertaste compared to our control tap water, but it disappeared after we refiltered it.\n\nThis water filter pitcher is sleek in design. It's slender at less than 5 inches wide, and we were able to fill it up with one hand which was quite convenient. Even though it doesn't have a handle, it wasn’t difficult to grasp and had a smooth pour.\n\nWhile we liked that the pitcher is made entirely out of glass for sustainability and easy cleaning, we wouldn't recommend this filter for someone living with small kids because it could easily break. Additionally, its smaller size means it has to get filled up more frequently, which may become a hassle if you live with others.\n\nWe were especially impressed with the speed at which the filter worked, immediately filling up as our tap water entered its filter. However, there aren't any indicators that let you know when to replace the filter, so you'll need to set up reminders on your own.\n\n**Capacity:** 5 cups \\| **Dimensions:** 4 by 4 by 10.5 in. \\| **Filter Replacement Frequency:** 40 gallons (about two months) \\| **Dishwasher Safe:** Yes\n\n- ![The Hydros Glass Slim Pitcher on a table](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/-_vEnEi0-0pHPWwb_SPP2Mv49rI=\/fit-in\/1500x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-product-hydros-40-oz-water-filter-slim-pitcher-dburreson-008-9cf915275d61483db3a9fe28e1067388.jpeg)\n  Credit: Real Simple\n- ![Hydros pouring water into a glass](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/4-PJbIO62iblFGSA_Yvye4f91yU=\/fit-in\/1500x2666\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-hydros-40-oz-water-filter-slim-pitcher-dburreson-008-2-24bef2a89bd54042a0e1081c0a6c977c.jpeg)\n  Credit: Real Simple\n- ![A Hand opening Hydros](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/mkH9EvRT_CsN5IDnjDWEExIBqkw=\/fit-in\/1500x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-hydros-40-oz-water-filter-slim-pitcher-dburreson-008-1-8dd7641f13ec42d5a7bd27f23a27e545.jpeg)\n  Credit: Real Simple\n\n- ![The Hydros Glass Slim Pitcher on a table](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/YazPopdUmNULeJEd1EAIf07ijco=\/fit-in\/200x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-product-hydros-40-oz-water-filter-slim-pitcher-dburreson-008-9cf915275d61483db3a9fe28e1067388.jpeg)\n- ![Hydros pouring water into a glass](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/9W1H-SxTnKo8wJSON1QSBmdKqRI=\/fit-in\/200x2666\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-hydros-40-oz-water-filter-slim-pitcher-dburreson-008-2-24bef2a89bd54042a0e1081c0a6c977c.jpeg)\n- ![A Hand opening Hydros](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/72fMbMFzB91gY3NOANzb39hrAWs=\/fit-in\/200x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-hydros-40-oz-water-filter-slim-pitcher-dburreson-008-1-8dd7641f13ec42d5a7bd27f23a27e545.jpeg)\n\nWhat Stands Out\n\n- Its space-saving design has an impressive 30-cup capacity, and the handles make it easy to carry.\n\nWhat Could Be Improved\n\n- Cleaning can be difficult if you have a smaller sink.\n\nPeople who don't want to refill their pitcher often or share a space with multiple household members may prefer using a water dispenser for its increased capacity and convenient spout. We recommend this filtered dispenser from Pur, which has a 30-cup capacity, a slim build that neatly tucks into your fridge, handles for easier carrying, and a robust filtration system that removes lead among other harmful contaminants.\n\nAfter filling the top portion of this dispenser about three-quarters of the way, it took about half an hour to filter through and filled the bottom tank up halfway. We immediately noticed an improvement in water taste and smell during our blind taste test.\n\nOur control tap water had a strong odor when compared with the filtered water, and the taste difference was like day and night: Our tap water tasted like chlorine while the filtered water tasted crisp and clean. We felt much more comfortable sipping on the glass that was filled by the dispenser.\n\nThe instructions to set up this dispenser were a breeze to follow. We had to soak the filter for 15 minutes and then scrub the pitcher, which can be separated into three sections for easier cleaning. Inserting the filter and activating the indicator light was simple as well, and the inside of the pitcher has instructions to walk you through the process.\n\nWashing the bottom tank was a little more awkward due to its size, so keep that in mind if you have a smaller sink. The only thing that could improve this pitcher is a max fill line, and we enthusiastically recommend it if you're looking for a large-capacity dispenser that's easy to use.\n\n**Capacity:** 30 cups \\| **Dimensions:** 5 by 15 by 10 in. \\| **Filter Replacement Frequency:** Every 40 gallons (about 2 months) \\| **Dishwasher Safe:** Yes\n\n- ![The Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser on a table](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/gY5zEjpijVYDNWcW6az7VDIznow=\/fit-in\/1500x2666\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-product-pur-plus-30-cup-dispenser-dburreson-003-8a9ab4cd4b3f4d0fae6dc9e6cae92a82.jpeg)\n  Credit: Real Simple\n- ![A person presses the dispenser on the Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/dbDJAmV_bf-xrokQcTfNzpYeLKg=\/fit-in\/1500x2666\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-pur-plus-30-cup-dispenser-dburreson-003-2-2b5047ab2e454a3cb64397cdf31c614f.jpeg)\n  Credit: Real Simple\n- ![A person drinks water filtered in the Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser while blindfolded](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/KETmriBazbNBINhFEyyFfVpGLdQ=\/fit-in\/1500x2666\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-water-filters-test-pur-plus-30-cup-dispenser-dburreson-61-3a6a6cc06faa4a5f955a0344b07bb2e0.jpeg)\n  Credit: Real Simple\n\n- ![The Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser on a table](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/CcgczWRSzLOPGT01lKm5N1VIilA=\/fit-in\/200x2666\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-product-pur-plus-30-cup-dispenser-dburreson-003-8a9ab4cd4b3f4d0fae6dc9e6cae92a82.jpeg)\n- ![A person presses the dispenser on the Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/FyAopSV5DycpP6m6J-epBDbO564=\/fit-in\/200x2666\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-pur-plus-30-cup-dispenser-dburreson-003-2-2b5047ab2e454a3cb64397cdf31c614f.jpeg)\n- ![A person drinks water filtered in the Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser while blindfolded](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/8nRMoNpoOPLz-HbA8zsf7-NfnW0=\/fit-in\/200x2666\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-water-filters-test-pur-plus-30-cup-dispenser-dburreson-61-3a6a6cc06faa4a5f955a0344b07bb2e0.jpeg)\n\nWhat Stands Out\n\n- The filter only has to be replaced twice a year, and it significantly improved the taste of our water.\n\nWhat Could Be Improved\n\n- The top tank is a little small and needs to be filled up several times before you have a full pitcher of water.\n\nThis water filter pitcher uses Brita Elite filters, which only need to be replaced twice a year, compared to [every two months for standard filters](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/home-organizing\/cleaning\/how-long-do-brita-filters-last). In addition to removing chlorine for improved taste and smell, the activated carbon filters can remove other contaminants like cadmium and mercury, and the electronic indicator on top ensures you always know when you're due for a replacement.\n\nThe filtered water was noticeably better in our blind taste test. Our control water had a thicker mouthfeel and a chlorine aftertaste, but the filtered water tasted light, crisp, and refreshing—it made us actually want to [drink more water and stay hydrated](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/how-to-drink-more-water-7495589).\n\nIn addition to improving the taste of our water, this pitcher is effortless to use. It went into our sink with no issue and fits well in the fridge despite its generous 10-cup capacity. The handle has a nice grip on it, and the pitcher is light enough to be lifted with one hand.\n\nAnother big plus is the easy-fill lid which has a convenient tab you can press down to open up the top reservoir, saving you from fumbling around with the lid. The only drawback is that it takes several times to fill it up all the way, but overall, this pitcher is incredibly practical and helps you cut back on the number of filters you buy.\n\n**Capacity:** 10 cups \\| **Dimensions:** 10 by 6 by 10 in. \\| **Filter Replacement Frequency:** Every 120 gallons (about 6 months) \\| **Dishwasher Safe:** No\n\n- ![The Brita Water Pitcher pouring water into a glass](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/U7M_0Y3NcB2-jh4ZuYPbI5UXybA=\/fit-in\/1500x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-brita-tahoe-water-pitcher-elite-filter-dburreson-004-2-a64af522cc1842e6a1ce514f8cf319ed.jpeg)\n  Credit: Real Simple\n- ![A person places a filter into the Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher with Elite Filter](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/KXlx6sBOukGbLXtabFxadgWxIzU=\/fit-in\/1500x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-water-filters-test-brita-tahoe-pitcher-elite-dburreson-98-d2c452c2d54349ec8b1be27d2a62eebc.jpeg)\n  Credit: Real Simple\n- ![A person lifts up the Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher with Elite Filter](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/jaPN_y-RsdBS7QTEoJqBX_N-Rrk=\/fit-in\/1500x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-water-filters-test-brita-tahoe-pitcher-elite-dburreson-103-a5144230f2cf4ee083a7f245c85b9604.jpeg)\n  Credit: Real Simple\n- ![A person opens the top on the Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher with Elite Filter](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/ix5EkYmaLgDfOyp5t2S21eNyv2k=\/fit-in\/1500x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-brita-tahoe-water-pitcher-elite-filter-dburreson-004-1-f86fa66df92b4738a132ca0abcdbb7ac.jpeg)\n  Credit: Real Simple\n\n- ![The Brita Water Pitcher pouring water into a glass](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/y59Ayow9vq2e9WP8QmHkM0sMI3k=\/fit-in\/200x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-brita-tahoe-water-pitcher-elite-filter-dburreson-004-2-a64af522cc1842e6a1ce514f8cf319ed.jpeg)\n- ![A person places a filter into the Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher with Elite Filter](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/Mgo0IjHlIgP6ZBwT6FH3MVA7BZA=\/fit-in\/200x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-water-filters-test-brita-tahoe-pitcher-elite-dburreson-98-d2c452c2d54349ec8b1be27d2a62eebc.jpeg)\n- ![A person lifts up the Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher with Elite Filter](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/rLu9Kwj_kn6Iy6IeGMOjzBo2Fgg=\/fit-in\/200x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-water-filters-test-brita-tahoe-pitcher-elite-dburreson-103-a5144230f2cf4ee083a7f245c85b9604.jpeg)\n- ![A person opens the top on the Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher with Elite Filter](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/KTttxhBjN8iz_5a_0LmfskNOlxM=\/fit-in\/200x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-brita-tahoe-water-pitcher-elite-filter-dburreson-004-1-f86fa66df92b4738a132ca0abcdbb7ac.jpeg)\n\nWhat Stands Out\n\n- The robust filter removes bacteria, pesticides, and heavy metals, and it does a great job of improving water taste.\n\nWhat Could Be Improved\n\n- It’s the most expensive on the list.\n\nThe Epic Nano Water Filter Pitcher is one of the most robust pitchers we tested, making it a great choice for well-water drinkers. It uses an NSF-approved sub-micron filter that combines nanofiber technology and powdered activated carbon to remove 99.9% of contaminants like bacteria, heavy metals, and fluoride.\n\nIt only needs to get replaced every 150 gallons, which is around three to four months of normal use. However, because this filter is very thorough, it did take about 12 minutes for the water in the reservoir to filter through.\n\nAside from its powerful filter, we were impressed with this pitcher's smart design. It boasts a 10-cup capacity yet has a compact build that can easily squeeze onto fridge shelves without cluttering them, and it has a handy LED timer that lets you know when to swap in a new filter. We also liked how light it is, even when full, and it has a nice, smooth pour.\n\nWe were wowed by this pitcher's ability to improve the taste of our water. While our tap tasted slightly metallic, the filtered water was fresh and clean. It improved the clarity of our tap water, removing its slight cloudiness and making it crystal clear. While pricey, we think this pitcher is well worth the cost based on its ease of use, comprehensive filter, and ability to improve water taste.\n\n**Capacity:** 10 cups \\| **Dimensions:** 10 by 10 by 8 in. \\| **Filter Replacement Frequency:** Every 150 gallons (about 3-4 months) \\| **Dishwasher Safe:** No\n\n- ![The Epic Water Filter Pitcher on a table](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/QdL-ZWzqBxMj767UgDzQ80qlfg8=\/fit-in\/1500x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-product-epic-water-nano-filter-dburreson-011-7fc00e0e497d4477916b27e90a27e910.jpeg)\n  Credit: Real Simple\n- ![A person pours water from the Epic Water Filter Pitcher into a glass](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/SdRKvcnMXlsFfnB7DFSwk1uBNug=\/fit-in\/1500x2666\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-epic-water-nano-filter-dburreson-011-2-ce8e4277d1694e2da0ca6a0d925cf74b.jpeg)\n  Credit: Real Simple\n- ![The Epic Water Filter Pitcher top and indicator](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/_8SaLBLrE4P5HrHgveVwX_1KoNk=\/fit-in\/1500x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-epic-water-nano-filter-dburreson-011-1-41b6705f05d048f386698fb33541b408.jpeg)\n  Credit: Real Simple\n- ![A person pours water into the Epic Water Filter Pitcher](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/3sCjZaRgKzLTl0K9A3RbCzHZXDw=\/fit-in\/1500x2666\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-water-filters-test-epic-nano-dburreson-318-54db436c128d4eef9165d3b7705a6dbd.jpeg)\n  Credit: Real Simple\n\n- ![The Epic Water Filter Pitcher on a table](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/R9ELInr1slcKN3wYbS9YMaGDglk=\/fit-in\/200x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-product-epic-water-nano-filter-dburreson-011-7fc00e0e497d4477916b27e90a27e910.jpeg)\n- ![A person pours water from the Epic Water Filter Pitcher into a glass](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/e6xUBiXRbz7cvX7hKPoCw7QACUE=\/fit-in\/200x2666\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-epic-water-nano-filter-dburreson-011-2-ce8e4277d1694e2da0ca6a0d925cf74b.jpeg)\n- ![The Epic Water Filter Pitcher top and indicator](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/7qCFEkuRhXPldOXYZHnVfQh80Rg=\/fit-in\/200x2667\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-detail-epic-water-nano-filter-dburreson-011-1-41b6705f05d048f386698fb33541b408.jpeg)\n- ![A person pours water into the Epic Water Filter Pitcher](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/thmb\/zy69c8XGmGEmQ7PphvuvgT32fec=\/fit-in\/200x2666\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/rsp-water-filters-test-epic-nano-dburreson-318-54db436c128d4eef9165d3b7705a6dbd.jpeg)\n\n## Final Verdict\nOur top pick is the [Brita 10-Cup Rapids Stream Water Pitcher](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Brita-10060258362371-Rapids-Stream-Pitcher\/dp\/B01N3LBPYA?ascsubtag=6827844&tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20) because it's easy to set up, filters water quickly, and does a great job of improving its taste. If you're looking for a pitcher with a more robust filter, we recommend the [Epic Nano Water Filter Pitcher](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Epic-Water-Nanofiltration-Cryptosporidium-Pesticides\/dp\/B079VMK57F?th=1&tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844), which can remove bacteria and heavy metals from well water.\n\n## Our Testing Process\nTo find the best water filter pitchers, we first took water samples from our New York City, Birmingham, and Des Moines offices and sent them off for analysis. We had the results analyzed by [Rick Andrew](https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/rickandrew\/), principal consultant at Rick Andrew Consulting Services, who has 30 years of experience in preserving and maintaining clean drinking water.\n\nThough all the water turned out to be safe to drink, the water in Des Moines was the murkiest, so we tested 18 water filter pitches at that lab. For our initial test, we compared the control water (tap water) to the filtered water poured from the pitchers, taking note of what the different waters tasted and smelled like.\n\nAfter that, we used these pitchers for two weeks, filling them and drinking the filtered water every day. Throughout our testing period, we paid close attention to whether the pitcher made our water taste better, how easy it was to set up and use, and if the filter is worth the cost.\n\nCredit:\n\nReal Simple\n## How to Shop for Water Filter Pitchers Like a Pro\n### Materials\nThe most common materials for water filter pitchers are glass and plastic. They both have pros and cons, so the material you choose depends on your lifestyle. Plastic weighs less than glass and is more durable, so it’s ideal for people who live with small children and don’t want their pitcher to fall and shatter. On the other hand, glass is more sustainable than plastic. If you don’t mind the extra weight and fragility, a glass pitcher is a sleek and functional addition to your fridge.\n\n### Capacity\nWater filter pitchers come in various sizes, and there isn’t one capacity necessarily better than the other. According to Ajami, “It's just a matter of how much time you have and how much water you need.”\n\nThe smallest pitchers have a 5- to 6-cup capacity and are ideal for those who live solo or in tight quarters. Standard pitchers will fall within the 7- to 10-cup range. But if you need to filter a lot of water, opt for a filtered dispenser that can hold up to 30 cups of water.\n\n### Filter\nDespite the number of water filters available, Ajami says that there are more similarities between them than differences. Most water filter pitchers use activated carbon to remove contaminants.\n\nThe most effective type of filter is a carbon block filter, which contains activated carbon shaped into bricks. These filters have more surface area that comes in contact with the water, making them more adept at removing harmful substances, but they’re generally more expensive and can get clogged with debris.\n\nGranulated activated carbon filters are the most common filter type, though they are less effective because they offer less surface area. While they don’t clog as easily as a carbon block filter, they often let water trickle through after they’ve lost effectiveness. If you purchase a granulated activated carbon filter, you want to stay on top of regularly swapping out the filter.\n\nThe effectiveness of carbon block and granulated activated carbon filters can vary based on how slowly water trickles through each filter. While some filters only improve the taste of water and remove chlorine, others can remove VOCs, asbestos, and other substances.\n\nA growing number of water filter pitchers, such as the [Hydros Glass Slim Pitcher](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Hydros-Pitcher-Powered-Fill-Up-Capacity\/dp\/B09J1RL7V8\/?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844), use coconut shelter carbon filters. This type of filter has a larger surface area than activated carbon, so they’re more efficient at removing contaminants from water. Coconut shell carbon is a renewable resource so it’s better for the environment, and it doesn’t leave black flecks in your water either.\n\nIf you’re concerned about a specific contaminant, Ajami recommends using a resource like [SimpleLab](https:\/\/www.gosimplelab.com\/data\/water) (she discloses that since it’s new, its database is limited) or the [EWG](https:\/\/www.ewg.org\/tapwater\/).\n\nThese tools can help you find the potential contaminants in your water, so you can choose a filter that addresses your needs. Ajami cautions: “If there is a serious issue with the water source, pitchers cannot necessarily clean that up. Just because you’re using a pitcher does not mean you’ll be able to take all the lead.”\n\nCredit:\n\nReal Simple\n## Questions You Might Ask\n### Do all water filter pitchers remove bacteria?\nWhile most water filter pitchers can remove contaminants such as lead, copper, and chlorine, not all possess the materials to remove bacteria. Your tap water should be treated for bacteria already, but if it’s a concern for you, you’ll want to research filters that specify bacterial removal in their products.\n\nMost filter companies will include testing reports on their website, so you can check how efficient they are at removing certain kinds of bacteria before purchasing. For bacteria removal, we recommend the [Epic Nano Water Filter Pitcher](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Epic-Water-Pitchers-Drinking-Bacteria\/dp\/B08NLBYZPY?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844), which has been tested to remove bacteria, giardia, cryptosporidium, and viruses.\n\n### Who should use a water filter pitcher?\nContrary to what you may think, water filter pitchers can benefit everyone, not just those with concerns about the quality of their tap water. Ajami emphasizes that “the water that comes out of your tap is highly tested and treated,” but mentions that your filtration needs can vary “depending on which location people are in.” If your water supply has an elevated level of contaminants, using a water filter pitcher can improve its quality for peace of mind.\n\nAnother benefit that Ajami points out is that a water filter pitcher can [soften hard water](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/beauty-fashion\/skincare\/hard-water-skin). “If \\[people\\] are cooking or boiling water, \\[filtered water\\] would leave less marks in their pots or other kitchen appliances,\" shes says. Additionally, “people like water filter pitchers just because of the taste,” which is a bonus if you [struggle with drinking enough water](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/health\/how-much-water-to-drink-day) daily.\n\n## Take Our Word for It\nThis article was written by [Jen Woo](https:\/\/www.realsimple.com\/author\/jen-woo), a design, lifestyle, and culture writer and content strategist with over 10 years of experience. To write this article, we tested 18 water filter pitchers in our lab and evaluated them based on their improvements to the taste and smell of our tap water, ease of use, and overall value.\n\nWe also got expert advice on shopping for water filter pitchers from [Newsha Ajami](https:\/\/waterinthewest.stanford.edu\/about\/people\/newsha-ajami), PhD, hydrologist and director of Urban Water Policy at Stanford University, and we had the results analyzed by water consultant [Rick Andrew](https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/rickandrew\/), the principal consultant at Rick Andrew Consulting Services, who has 30 years of experience in preserving and maintaining clean drinking water.","meta_canonical":null}

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Meta Title	We Tested Water Filter Pitchers: Here Are the Best Ones
Meta Description	We tested 18 of the best water filter pitchers in our lab and evaluated them based on their ability to improve the taste and smell of our tap water, ease of use, and overall value. We also consulted an expert for advice on how to shop for water filter pitchers.
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Boilerpipe Text	A water filter pitcher makes it easier to have great-tasting water on hand— without heavy metals and contaminants—and can seriously cut back on your plastic bottle usage. Plus, we all know staying hydrated is essential to your well-being, so having the right water filter pitcher can help you hit your daily water goals in a cinch. To help you find the best water filter pitcher for your needs, we tested 18 options in our lab and evaluated them based on their ability to improve the taste and smell of our tap water, their ease of use, and their overall value. We also consulted Newsha Ajami , PhD, hydrologist and director of Urban Water Policy at Stanford University, for water filter pitcher advice from an expert. What Stands Out It filters as you pour, so you don't have to wait for the basin to fill up, and it improved the taste of our water. What Could Be Improved It only removes chlorine and no other contaminants. The Brita 10-Cup Rapids Stream Water Pitcher is our top pick because of its ease of use and performance in our testing. Setting up the pitcher was very straightforward—you just run it under cold water, clean the plastic container, and fill it up. Unlike its competitors, this pitcher filters water while you pour so you don’t have to wait ages for it to fill up. The filter began working instantly as we poured, and in no time we had a pitcher full of fresh water. It wasn't cumbersome to fill up or pour, and it fit under our sink without any hassle. We were also impressed at this pitcher's ability to improve the taste of our water. The control water had a chlorine aftertaste, while the filtered water tasted clean and crisp thanks to Brita's activated-carbon stream filter. We also noticed that the filtered water had a slightly clearer appearance than that of the control. However, if water quality is a major concern for you, know that this filter mostly removes chlorine and isn't equipped to filter other contaminants like heavy metals and bacteria. During our testing, we didn't find any drawbacks to this pitcher. Its compact size can easily fit in your refrigerator, and it's lightweight and easy to pour. It also comes with an electronic indicator on top, so you know when it's time to change the filter (around every two months). Capacity: 10 cups \| Dimensions: 11 by 5 by 16 in. \| Filter Replacement Frequency: Every 40 gallons (about 2 months) \| Dishwasher Safe: No Credit: Real Simple Credit: Real Simple Credit: Real Simple Credit: Real Simple Credit: Real Simple What Stands Out Its sleek, compact design saves space in the fridge, and it filters water as soon as it’s filled. What Could Be Improved There’s no indicator that tells you when it’s time to replace the filter. This small pitcher is unique because it uses a coconut shell carbon filter, which is a new type of filter. Coconut shell carbon has more porosity, which means it's more efficient at removing contaminants, and it's more environmentally friendly to manufacture. Right after we set up this pitcher, we noticed the freshly filtered water had a slight metallic aftertaste compared to our control tap water, but it disappeared after we refiltered it. This water filter pitcher is sleek in design. It's slender at less than 5 inches wide, and we were able to fill it up with one hand which was quite convenient. Even though it doesn't have a handle, it wasn’t difficult to grasp and had a smooth pour. While we liked that the pitcher is made entirely out of glass for sustainability and easy cleaning, we wouldn't recommend this filter for someone living with small kids because it could easily break. Additionally, its smaller size means it has to get filled up more frequently, which may become a hassle if you live with others. We were especially impressed with the speed at which the filter worked, immediately filling up as our tap water entered its filter. However, there aren't any indicators that let you know when to replace the filter, so you'll need to set up reminders on your own. Capacity: 5 cups \| Dimensions: 4 by 4 by 10.5 in. \| Filter Replacement Frequency: 40 gallons (about two months) \| Dishwasher Safe: Yes Credit: Real Simple Credit: Real Simple Credit: Real Simple What Stands Out Its space-saving design has an impressive 30-cup capacity, and the handles make it easy to carry. What Could Be Improved Cleaning can be difficult if you have a smaller sink. People who don't want to refill their pitcher often or share a space with multiple household members may prefer using a water dispenser for its increased capacity and convenient spout. We recommend this filtered dispenser from Pur, which has a 30-cup capacity, a slim build that neatly tucks into your fridge, handles for easier carrying, and a robust filtration system that removes lead among other harmful contaminants. After filling the top portion of this dispenser about three-quarters of the way, it took about half an hour to filter through and filled the bottom tank up halfway. We immediately noticed an improvement in water taste and smell during our blind taste test. Our control tap water had a strong odor when compared with the filtered water, and the taste difference was like day and night: Our tap water tasted like chlorine while the filtered water tasted crisp and clean. We felt much more comfortable sipping on the glass that was filled by the dispenser. The instructions to set up this dispenser were a breeze to follow. We had to soak the filter for 15 minutes and then scrub the pitcher, which can be separated into three sections for easier cleaning. Inserting the filter and activating the indicator light was simple as well, and the inside of the pitcher has instructions to walk you through the process. Washing the bottom tank was a little more awkward due to its size, so keep that in mind if you have a smaller sink. The only thing that could improve this pitcher is a max fill line, and we enthusiastically recommend it if you're looking for a large-capacity dispenser that's easy to use. Capacity: 30 cups \| Dimensions: 5 by 15 by 10 in. \| Filter Replacement Frequency: Every 40 gallons (about 2 months) \| Dishwasher Safe: Yes Credit: Real Simple Credit: Real Simple Credit: Real Simple What Stands Out The filter only has to be replaced twice a year, and it significantly improved the taste of our water. What Could Be Improved The top tank is a little small and needs to be filled up several times before you have a full pitcher of water. This water filter pitcher uses Brita Elite filters, which only need to be replaced twice a year, compared to every two months for standard filters . In addition to removing chlorine for improved taste and smell, the activated carbon filters can remove other contaminants like cadmium and mercury, and the electronic indicator on top ensures you always know when you're due for a replacement. The filtered water was noticeably better in our blind taste test. Our control water had a thicker mouthfeel and a chlorine aftertaste, but the filtered water tasted light, crisp, and refreshing—it made us actually want to drink more water and stay hydrated . In addition to improving the taste of our water, this pitcher is effortless to use. It went into our sink with no issue and fits well in the fridge despite its generous 10-cup capacity. The handle has a nice grip on it, and the pitcher is light enough to be lifted with one hand. Another big plus is the easy-fill lid which has a convenient tab you can press down to open up the top reservoir, saving you from fumbling around with the lid. The only drawback is that it takes several times to fill it up all the way, but overall, this pitcher is incredibly practical and helps you cut back on the number of filters you buy. Capacity: 10 cups \| Dimensions: 10 by 6 by 10 in. \| Filter Replacement Frequency: Every 120 gallons (about 6 months) \| Dishwasher Safe: No Credit: Real Simple Credit: Real Simple Credit: Real Simple Credit: Real Simple What Stands Out The robust filter removes bacteria, pesticides, and heavy metals, and it does a great job of improving water taste. What Could Be Improved It’s the most expensive on the list. The Epic Nano Water Filter Pitcher is one of the most robust pitchers we tested, making it a great choice for well-water drinkers. It uses an NSF-approved sub-micron filter that combines nanofiber technology and powdered activated carbon to remove 99.9% of contaminants like bacteria, heavy metals, and fluoride. It only needs to get replaced every 150 gallons, which is around three to four months of normal use. However, because this filter is very thorough, it did take about 12 minutes for the water in the reservoir to filter through. Aside from its powerful filter, we were impressed with this pitcher's smart design. It boasts a 10-cup capacity yet has a compact build that can easily squeeze onto fridge shelves without cluttering them, and it has a handy LED timer that lets you know when to swap in a new filter. We also liked how light it is, even when full, and it has a nice, smooth pour. We were wowed by this pitcher's ability to improve the taste of our water. While our tap tasted slightly metallic, the filtered water was fresh and clean. It improved the clarity of our tap water, removing its slight cloudiness and making it crystal clear. While pricey, we think this pitcher is well worth the cost based on its ease of use, comprehensive filter, and ability to improve water taste. Capacity: 10 cups \| Dimensions: 10 by 10 by 8 in. \| Filter Replacement Frequency: Every 150 gallons (about 3-4 months) \| Dishwasher Safe: No Credit: Real Simple Credit: Real Simple Credit: Real Simple Credit: Real Simple Final Verdict Our top pick is the Brita 10-Cup Rapids Stream Water Pitcher because it's easy to set up, filters water quickly, and does a great job of improving its taste. If you're looking for a pitcher with a more robust filter, we recommend the Epic Nano Water Filter Pitcher , which can remove bacteria and heavy metals from well water. Our Testing Process To find the best water filter pitchers, we first took water samples from our New York City, Birmingham, and Des Moines offices and sent them off for analysis. We had the results analyzed by Rick Andrew , principal consultant at Rick Andrew Consulting Services, who has 30 years of experience in preserving and maintaining clean drinking water. Though all the water turned out to be safe to drink, the water in Des Moines was the murkiest, so we tested 18 water filter pitches at that lab. For our initial test, we compared the control water (tap water) to the filtered water poured from the pitchers, taking note of what the different waters tasted and smelled like. After that, we used these pitchers for two weeks, filling them and drinking the filtered water every day. Throughout our testing period, we paid close attention to whether the pitcher made our water taste better, how easy it was to set up and use, and if the filter is worth the cost. Credit: Real Simple How to Shop for Water Filter Pitchers Like a Pro Materials The most common materials for water filter pitchers are glass and plastic. They both have pros and cons, so the material you choose depends on your lifestyle. Plastic weighs less than glass and is more durable, so it’s ideal for people who live with small children and don’t want their pitcher to fall and shatter. On the other hand, glass is more sustainable than plastic. If you don’t mind the extra weight and fragility, a glass pitcher is a sleek and functional addition to your fridge. Capacity Water filter pitchers come in various sizes, and there isn’t one capacity necessarily better than the other. According to Ajami, “It's just a matter of how much time you have and how much water you need.” The smallest pitchers have a 5- to 6-cup capacity and are ideal for those who live solo or in tight quarters. Standard pitchers will fall within the 7- to 10-cup range. But if you need to filter a lot of water, opt for a filtered dispenser that can hold up to 30 cups of water. Filter Despite the number of water filters available, Ajami says that there are more similarities between them than differences. Most water filter pitchers use activated carbon to remove contaminants. The most effective type of filter is a carbon block filter, which contains activated carbon shaped into bricks. These filters have more surface area that comes in contact with the water, making them more adept at removing harmful substances, but they’re generally more expensive and can get clogged with debris. Granulated activated carbon filters are the most common filter type, though they are less effective because they offer less surface area. While they don’t clog as easily as a carbon block filter, they often let water trickle through after they’ve lost effectiveness. If you purchase a granulated activated carbon filter, you want to stay on top of regularly swapping out the filter. The effectiveness of carbon block and granulated activated carbon filters can vary based on how slowly water trickles through each filter. While some filters only improve the taste of water and remove chlorine, others can remove VOCs, asbestos, and other substances. A growing number of water filter pitchers, such as the Hydros Glass Slim Pitcher , use coconut shelter carbon filters. This type of filter has a larger surface area than activated carbon, so they’re more efficient at removing contaminants from water. Coconut shell carbon is a renewable resource so it’s better for the environment, and it doesn’t leave black flecks in your water either. If you’re concerned about a specific contaminant, Ajami recommends using a resource like SimpleLab (she discloses that since it’s new, its database is limited) or the EWG . These tools can help you find the potential contaminants in your water, so you can choose a filter that addresses your needs. Ajami cautions: “If there is a serious issue with the water source, pitchers cannot necessarily clean that up. Just because you’re using a pitcher does not mean you’ll be able to take all the lead.” Credit: Real Simple Questions You Might Ask Do all water filter pitchers remove bacteria? While most water filter pitchers can remove contaminants such as lead, copper, and chlorine, not all possess the materials to remove bacteria. Your tap water should be treated for bacteria already, but if it’s a concern for you, you’ll want to research filters that specify bacterial removal in their products. Most filter companies will include testing reports on their website, so you can check how efficient they are at removing certain kinds of bacteria before purchasing. For bacteria removal, we recommend the Epic Nano Water Filter Pitcher , which has been tested to remove bacteria, giardia, cryptosporidium, and viruses. Who should use a water filter pitcher? Contrary to what you may think, water filter pitchers can benefit everyone, not just those with concerns about the quality of their tap water. Ajami emphasizes that “the water that comes out of your tap is highly tested and treated,” but mentions that your filtration needs can vary “depending on which location people are in.” If your water supply has an elevated level of contaminants, using a water filter pitcher can improve its quality for peace of mind. Another benefit that Ajami points out is that a water filter pitcher can soften hard water . “If [people] are cooking or boiling water, [filtered water] would leave less marks in their pots or other kitchen appliances," shes says. Additionally, “people like water filter pitchers just because of the taste,” which is a bonus if you struggle with drinking enough water daily. Take Our Word for It This article was written by Jen Woo , a design, lifestyle, and culture writer and content strategist with over 10 years of experience. To write this article, we tested 18 water filter pitchers in our lab and evaluated them based on their improvements to the taste and smell of our tap water, ease of use, and overall value. We also got expert advice on shopping for water filter pitchers from Newsha Ajami , PhD, hydrologist and director of Urban Water Policy at Stanford University, and we had the results analyzed by water consultant Rick Andrew , the principal consultant at Rick Andrew Consulting Services, who has 30 years of experience in preserving and maintaining clean drinking water.
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Save your favorites on MyRecipes for free.](https://www.myrecipes.com/authentication/login?regSource=cakmue&isMyrecipes=true) We [independently evaluate](https://www.realsimple.com/real-simple-commerce-guidelines-and-mission-6281697) all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. # We Tested Water Filter Pitchers: Here Are the 5 Best Ones Out of the 18 options we tested, these are our favorites for removing contaminants, aftertaste, and more. By [Jen Woo](https://www.realsimple.com/author/jen-woo) ![Jen Woo headshot]() ![Jen Woo headshot](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/FdGGssmsNlEPMpp3qNANHbG--A0=/200x200/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/Jen-Woo-2000-2d80009e54904bbb8dc0987beb30d9d8.jpg) [Jen Woo](https://www.realsimple.com/author/jen-woo) Jen Woo is a writer for Real Simple. She covers design, lifestyle, and culture, and has written about tested products, including bedding, bras, and more. [Real Simple's Editorial Guidelines](https://www.realsimple.com/about-us-5546943#toc-editorial-guidelines) Updated on March 06, 2025 ## In This Article View All In This Article - [Top Picks](https://www.realsimple.com/best-water-filter-pitchers-6827844#toc-top-picks) - [Reviews](https://www.realsimple.com/best-water-filter-pitchers-6827844#toc-reviews) - [Final Verdict](https://www.realsimple.com/best-water-filter-pitchers-6827844#toc-final-verdict) - [Our Testing Process](https://www.realsimple.com/best-water-filter-pitchers-6827844#toc-our-testing-process) - [How to Shop](https://www.realsimple.com/best-water-filter-pitchers-6827844#toc-how-to-shop-for-water-filter-pitchers-like-a-pro) - [FAQs](https://www.realsimple.com/best-water-filter-pitchers-6827844#toc-questions-you-might-ask) - [Take Our Word for It](https://www.realsimple.com/best-water-filter-pitchers-6827844#toc-take-our-word-for-it) ![A person pours water into a glass from the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/IRBtsny1cmDXizUwj0_u6-zJpN0=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-brita-water-filter-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-006-2-d94e8d98bf2c40a590542854920380b9.jpeg) ![A person pours water into a glass from the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/IRBtsny1cmDXizUwj0_u6-zJpN0=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-brita-water-filter-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-006-2-d94e8d98bf2c40a590542854920380b9.jpeg) Credit: Real Simple A water filter pitcher makes it easier to have great-tasting water on hand—without heavy metals and contaminants—and can seriously cut back on your plastic bottle usage. Plus, we all know staying hydrated is essential to your well-being, so having the right water filter pitcher can help you hit your daily water goals in a cinch. To help you find the best water filter pitcher for your needs, we tested 18 options in our lab and evaluated them based on their ability to improve the taste and smell of our tap water, their ease of use, and their overall value. We also consulted [Newsha Ajami](https://waterinthewest.stanford.edu/about/people/newsha-ajami), PhD, hydrologist and director of Urban Water Policy at Stanford University, for water filter pitcher advice from an expert. ## Top Picks Best Overall: [Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher at Amazon \$50](https://www.amazon.com/Brita-10060258362371-Rapids-Stream-Pitcher/dp/B01N3LBPYA?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844) [Jump to Review](https://www.realsimple.com/best-water-filter-pitchers-6827844#toc-best-overall-brita-rapids-stream-water-pitcher) Best Small: SALE [Hydros Glass Slim Pitcher at Amazon ~~\$24~~ \$18](https://www.amazon.com/Hydros-Filter-Powered-Seconds-Filling/dp/B08465HMGR?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844) [Jump to Review](https://www.realsimple.com/best-water-filter-pitchers-6827844#toc-best-small-hydros-glass-slim-pitcher) Best Large: SALE [Pur Plus Dispenser at Amazon ~~\$43~~ \$27](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07CRSK5KX?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844) [Jump to Review](https://www.realsimple.com/best-water-filter-pitchers-6827844#toc-best-large-pur-plus-30-cup-dispenser) Best Long-Lasting Filter: [Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher at Amazon \$41](https://www.amazon.com/Brita-Drinking-Replacement-Capacity-Christmas/dp/B0B3BM3Z94?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844) [Jump to Review](https://www.realsimple.com/best-water-filter-pitchers-6827844#toc-best-long-lasting-filter-brita-tahoe-water-pitcher-with-elite-filter) Best for Well Water: [Epic Water Filters Epic Nano at Amazon \$79](https://www.amazon.com/Epic-Water-Nanofiltration-Cryptosporidium-Pesticides/dp/B079VMK57F?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844) [Jump to Review](https://www.realsimple.com/best-water-filter-pitchers-6827844#toc-best-for-well-water-epic-water-filters-epic-nano-water-filter-pitcher) ## Best Overall [Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher](https://www.amazon.com/Brita-10060258362371-Rapids-Stream-Pitcher/dp/B01N3LBPYA?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844) [![Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/Lw6J1T3WXFn90cgManifkrPWAFM=/fit-in/1500x1000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/brita-rapids-stream-water-pitcher-3d933c56c73046749eeca6fece34b2be.jpg) ![Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/Lw6J1T3WXFn90cgManifkrPWAFM=/fit-in/1500x1000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/brita-rapids-stream-water-pitcher-3d933c56c73046749eeca6fece34b2be.jpg)](https://www.amazon.com/Brita-10060258362371-Rapids-Stream-Pitcher/dp/B01N3LBPYA?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844) Credit: Amazon [\$50 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/Brita-10060258362371-Rapids-Stream-Pitcher/dp/B01N3LBPYA?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844) [\$54 at Home Depot](https://www.homedepot.com/p/Brita-Stream-Rapids-10-Cup-Filter-as-You-Pour-Water-Pitcher-in-Lake-Blue-with-Water-Filter-BPA-Free-6025836219/308802802) [\$69 \$56 at Walmart](https://www.walmart.com/ip/Brita-Stream-Filter-as-You-Pour-Water-Pitcher-10-Cup-Lake-Blue/54736200) What Stands Out - It filters as you pour, so you don't have to wait for the basin to fill up, and it improved the taste of our water. What Could Be Improved - It only removes chlorine and no other contaminants. The Brita 10-Cup Rapids Stream Water Pitcher is our top pick because of its ease of use and performance in our testing. Setting up the pitcher was very straightforward—you just run it under cold water, clean the plastic container, and fill it up. Unlike its competitors, this pitcher filters water while you pour so you don’t have to wait ages for it to fill up. The filter began working instantly as we poured, and in no time we had a pitcher full of fresh water. It wasn't cumbersome to fill up or pour, and it fit under our sink without any hassle. We were also impressed at this pitcher's ability to improve the taste of our water. The control water had a chlorine aftertaste, while the filtered water tasted clean and crisp thanks to Brita's activated-carbon stream filter. We also noticed that the filtered water had a slightly clearer appearance than that of the control. However, if water quality is a major concern for you, know that this filter mostly removes chlorine and isn't equipped to filter other contaminants like heavy metals and bacteria. During our testing, we didn't find any drawbacks to this pitcher. Its compact size can easily fit in your refrigerator, and it's lightweight and easy to pour. It also comes with an electronic indicator on top, so you know when it's time to change the filter (around every two months). Capacity: 10 cups \\| Dimensions: 11 by 5 by 16 in. \\| Filter Replacement Frequency: Every 40 gallons (about 2 months) \\| Dishwasher Safe: No - ![The Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher on a kitchen table](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/SFRTOtTU8y4GN9slzyJWMolx3Os=/fit-in/1500x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-product-brita-water-filter-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-006-f022590e9a3e43a5ae4be9c7723bfa17.jpeg) ![The Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher on a kitchen table](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/SFRTOtTU8y4GN9slzyJWMolx3Os=/fit-in/1500x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-product-brita-water-filter-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-006-f022590e9a3e43a5ae4be9c7723bfa17.jpeg) Credit: Real Simple - ![A closeup of the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher top and filter indicator]() ![A closeup of the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher top and filter indicator](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/Ma-KonHyMQOK6yj7LGhqP5sNpAo=/fit-in/1500x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-brita-water-filter-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-006-1-8657ccc8f194426c92473abf0b2f0f50.jpeg) Credit: Real Simple - ![A person pours water into a glass from the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher]() ![A person pours water into a glass from the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/Qbn7Ou0VMzp7d-ozOeVYtIA3f6E=/fit-in/1500x2666/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-brita-water-filter-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-006-2-d94e8d98bf2c40a590542854920380b9.jpeg) Credit: Real Simple - ![A person washes the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher]() ![A person washes the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/0LfDSppbvuuKquHvs2OI9gkWSt4=/fit-in/1500x2666/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-water-filters-test-brita-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-155-ccb588ab151c440a97a07bf9fb620bf5.jpeg) Credit: Real Simple - ![A person holds up glasses of water filtered in the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher]() ![A person holds up glasses of water filtered in the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/-fAEDEo2G_EMWxjd3Ary0arSTHE=/fit-in/1500x2666/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-water-filters-test-brita-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-167-d290389552c6488b9f82c0a8a991e7bc.jpeg) Credit: Real Simple - ![The Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher on a kitchen table](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/orTVr0tyI_iQiN8clE76qnDAZU0=/fit-in/200x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-product-brita-water-filter-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-006-f022590e9a3e43a5ae4be9c7723bfa17.jpeg) ![The Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher on a kitchen table](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/orTVr0tyI_iQiN8clE76qnDAZU0=/fit-in/200x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-product-brita-water-filter-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-006-f022590e9a3e43a5ae4be9c7723bfa17.jpeg) - ![A closeup of the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher top and filter indicator](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/pTRAZQ1ZMyMci_ecxUZbg2qggfE=/fit-in/200x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-brita-water-filter-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-006-1-8657ccc8f194426c92473abf0b2f0f50.jpeg) ![A closeup of the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher top and filter indicator](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/pTRAZQ1ZMyMci_ecxUZbg2qggfE=/fit-in/200x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-brita-water-filter-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-006-1-8657ccc8f194426c92473abf0b2f0f50.jpeg) - ![A person pours water into a glass from the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/vO6w1X1YIlQtqVgKafXuiQ-7aBA=/fit-in/200x2666/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-brita-water-filter-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-006-2-d94e8d98bf2c40a590542854920380b9.jpeg) ![A person pours water into a glass from the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/vO6w1X1YIlQtqVgKafXuiQ-7aBA=/fit-in/200x2666/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-brita-water-filter-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-006-2-d94e8d98bf2c40a590542854920380b9.jpeg) - ![A person washes the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/iwymodjF2wU-4ePKy1dbIIjIXDE=/fit-in/200x2666/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-water-filters-test-brita-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-155-ccb588ab151c440a97a07bf9fb620bf5.jpeg) ![A person washes the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/iwymodjF2wU-4ePKy1dbIIjIXDE=/fit-in/200x2666/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-water-filters-test-brita-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-155-ccb588ab151c440a97a07bf9fb620bf5.jpeg) - ![A person holds up glasses of water filtered in the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/rxpizdfJ0kTABwfar_oVUSZUfBk=/fit-in/200x2666/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-water-filters-test-brita-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-167-d290389552c6488b9f82c0a8a991e7bc.jpeg) ![A person holds up glasses of water filtered in the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/rxpizdfJ0kTABwfar_oVUSZUfBk=/fit-in/200x2666/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-water-filters-test-brita-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-167-d290389552c6488b9f82c0a8a991e7bc.jpeg) ## Best Small [Hydros Glass Slim Pitcher](https://www.amazon.com/Hydros-Filter-Powered-Seconds-Filling/dp/B08465HMGR?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844) [![Hydros Glass Slim Pitcher](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/Bk3mFGJUvIbS2VXJb0NtYAGKldw=/fit-in/1500x1000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/7-9837a27990e84e379ef60bb9ddc7ba47.jpg) ![Hydros Glass Slim Pitcher](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/Bk3mFGJUvIbS2VXJb0NtYAGKldw=/fit-in/1500x1000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/7-9837a27990e84e379ef60bb9ddc7ba47.jpg)](https://www.amazon.com/Hydros-Filter-Powered-Seconds-Filling/dp/B08465HMGR?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844) Credit: Amazon [\$24 \$18 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/Hydros-Filter-Powered-Seconds-Filling/dp/B08465HMGR?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844) [View on Walmart](https://www.walmart.com/ip/Water-Filter-Slim-Pitcher-40oz/398951295) [\$37 at Hydroslife.com](https://hydroslife.com/products/glass-water-filter-slim-pitcher-40oz) What Stands Out - Its sleek, compact design saves space in the fridge, and it filters water as soon as it’s filled. What Could Be Improved - There’s no indicator that tells you when it’s time to replace the filter. This small pitcher is unique because it uses a coconut shell carbon filter, which is a new type of filter. Coconut shell carbon has more porosity, which means it's more efficient at removing contaminants, and it's more environmentally friendly to manufacture. Right after we set up this pitcher, we noticed the freshly filtered water had a slight metallic aftertaste compared to our control tap water, but it disappeared after we refiltered it. This water filter pitcher is sleek in design. It's slender at less than 5 inches wide, and we were able to fill it up with one hand which was quite convenient. Even though it doesn't have a handle, it wasn’t difficult to grasp and had a smooth pour. While we liked that the pitcher is made entirely out of glass for sustainability and easy cleaning, we wouldn't recommend this filter for someone living with small kids because it could easily break. Additionally, its smaller size means it has to get filled up more frequently, which may become a hassle if you live with others. We were especially impressed with the speed at which the filter worked, immediately filling up as our tap water entered its filter. However, there aren't any indicators that let you know when to replace the filter, so you'll need to set up reminders on your own. Capacity: 5 cups \\| Dimensions: 4 by 4 by 10.5 in. \\| Filter Replacement Frequency: 40 gallons (about two months) \\| Dishwasher Safe: Yes - ![The Hydros Glass Slim Pitcher on a table](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/-_vEnEi0-0pHPWwb_SPP2Mv49rI=/fit-in/1500x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-product-hydros-40-oz-water-filter-slim-pitcher-dburreson-008-9cf915275d61483db3a9fe28e1067388.jpeg) ![The Hydros Glass Slim Pitcher on a table](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/-_vEnEi0-0pHPWwb_SPP2Mv49rI=/fit-in/1500x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-product-hydros-40-oz-water-filter-slim-pitcher-dburreson-008-9cf915275d61483db3a9fe28e1067388.jpeg) Credit: Real Simple - ![Hydros pouring water into a glass]() ![Hydros pouring water into a glass](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/4-PJbIO62iblFGSA_Yvye4f91yU=/fit-in/1500x2666/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-hydros-40-oz-water-filter-slim-pitcher-dburreson-008-2-24bef2a89bd54042a0e1081c0a6c977c.jpeg) Credit: Real Simple - ![A Hand opening Hydros]() ![A Hand opening Hydros](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/mkH9EvRT_CsN5IDnjDWEExIBqkw=/fit-in/1500x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-hydros-40-oz-water-filter-slim-pitcher-dburreson-008-1-8dd7641f13ec42d5a7bd27f23a27e545.jpeg) Credit: Real Simple - ![The Hydros Glass Slim Pitcher on a table](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/YazPopdUmNULeJEd1EAIf07ijco=/fit-in/200x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-product-hydros-40-oz-water-filter-slim-pitcher-dburreson-008-9cf915275d61483db3a9fe28e1067388.jpeg) ![The Hydros Glass Slim Pitcher on a table](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/YazPopdUmNULeJEd1EAIf07ijco=/fit-in/200x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-product-hydros-40-oz-water-filter-slim-pitcher-dburreson-008-9cf915275d61483db3a9fe28e1067388.jpeg) - ![Hydros pouring water into a glass](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/9W1H-SxTnKo8wJSON1QSBmdKqRI=/fit-in/200x2666/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-hydros-40-oz-water-filter-slim-pitcher-dburreson-008-2-24bef2a89bd54042a0e1081c0a6c977c.jpeg) ![Hydros pouring water into a glass](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/9W1H-SxTnKo8wJSON1QSBmdKqRI=/fit-in/200x2666/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-hydros-40-oz-water-filter-slim-pitcher-dburreson-008-2-24bef2a89bd54042a0e1081c0a6c977c.jpeg) - ![A Hand opening Hydros](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/72fMbMFzB91gY3NOANzb39hrAWs=/fit-in/200x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-hydros-40-oz-water-filter-slim-pitcher-dburreson-008-1-8dd7641f13ec42d5a7bd27f23a27e545.jpeg) ![A Hand opening Hydros](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/72fMbMFzB91gY3NOANzb39hrAWs=/fit-in/200x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-hydros-40-oz-water-filter-slim-pitcher-dburreson-008-1-8dd7641f13ec42d5a7bd27f23a27e545.jpeg) ## Best Large [Pur Plus Dispenser](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07CRSK5KX?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844) [![Amazon Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/-ovk_V39fmlBFSlhr13xel0yAsw=/fit-in/1500x1000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/pur-ds1811z-ultimate-30-cup-water-filter-dispenser-3aa96ee63ca84aa8b9323b432a4db938.jpg) ![Amazon Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/-ovk_V39fmlBFSlhr13xel0yAsw=/fit-in/1500x1000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/pur-ds1811z-ultimate-30-cup-water-filter-dispenser-3aa96ee63ca84aa8b9323b432a4db938.jpg)](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07CRSK5KX?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844) Credit: Amazon [\$43 \$27 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07CRSK5KX?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844) [\$27 at Target](https://www.target.com/p/pur-ultimate-30-cup-dispenser-with-lead-reduction/-/A-53152142) [\$27 at Pur.com](https://www.pur.com/shop/dispensers/pur-plus-30-cup-dispenser) What Stands Out - Its space-saving design has an impressive 30-cup capacity, and the handles make it easy to carry. What Could Be Improved - Cleaning can be difficult if you have a smaller sink. People who don't want to refill their pitcher often or share a space with multiple household members may prefer using a water dispenser for its increased capacity and convenient spout. We recommend this filtered dispenser from Pur, which has a 30-cup capacity, a slim build that neatly tucks into your fridge, handles for easier carrying, and a robust filtration system that removes lead among other harmful contaminants. After filling the top portion of this dispenser about three-quarters of the way, it took about half an hour to filter through and filled the bottom tank up halfway. We immediately noticed an improvement in water taste and smell during our blind taste test. Our control tap water had a strong odor when compared with the filtered water, and the taste difference was like day and night: Our tap water tasted like chlorine while the filtered water tasted crisp and clean. We felt much more comfortable sipping on the glass that was filled by the dispenser. The instructions to set up this dispenser were a breeze to follow. We had to soak the filter for 15 minutes and then scrub the pitcher, which can be separated into three sections for easier cleaning. Inserting the filter and activating the indicator light was simple as well, and the inside of the pitcher has instructions to walk you through the process. Washing the bottom tank was a little more awkward due to its size, so keep that in mind if you have a smaller sink. The only thing that could improve this pitcher is a max fill line, and we enthusiastically recommend it if you're looking for a large-capacity dispenser that's easy to use. Capacity: 30 cups \\| Dimensions: 5 by 15 by 10 in. \\| Filter Replacement Frequency: Every 40 gallons (about 2 months) \\| Dishwasher Safe: Yes - ![The Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser on a table](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/gY5zEjpijVYDNWcW6az7VDIznow=/fit-in/1500x2666/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-product-pur-plus-30-cup-dispenser-dburreson-003-8a9ab4cd4b3f4d0fae6dc9e6cae92a82.jpeg) ![The Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser on a table](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/gY5zEjpijVYDNWcW6az7VDIznow=/fit-in/1500x2666/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-product-pur-plus-30-cup-dispenser-dburreson-003-8a9ab4cd4b3f4d0fae6dc9e6cae92a82.jpeg) Credit: Real Simple - ![A person presses the dispenser on the Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser]() ![A person presses the dispenser on the Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/dbDJAmV_bf-xrokQcTfNzpYeLKg=/fit-in/1500x2666/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-pur-plus-30-cup-dispenser-dburreson-003-2-2b5047ab2e454a3cb64397cdf31c614f.jpeg) Credit: Real Simple - ![A person drinks water filtered in the Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser while blindfolded]() ![A person drinks water filtered in the Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser while blindfolded](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/KETmriBazbNBINhFEyyFfVpGLdQ=/fit-in/1500x2666/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-water-filters-test-pur-plus-30-cup-dispenser-dburreson-61-3a6a6cc06faa4a5f955a0344b07bb2e0.jpeg) Credit: Real Simple - ![The Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser on a table](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/CcgczWRSzLOPGT01lKm5N1VIilA=/fit-in/200x2666/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-product-pur-plus-30-cup-dispenser-dburreson-003-8a9ab4cd4b3f4d0fae6dc9e6cae92a82.jpeg) ![The Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser on a table](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/CcgczWRSzLOPGT01lKm5N1VIilA=/fit-in/200x2666/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-product-pur-plus-30-cup-dispenser-dburreson-003-8a9ab4cd4b3f4d0fae6dc9e6cae92a82.jpeg) - ![A person presses the dispenser on the Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/FyAopSV5DycpP6m6J-epBDbO564=/fit-in/200x2666/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-pur-plus-30-cup-dispenser-dburreson-003-2-2b5047ab2e454a3cb64397cdf31c614f.jpeg) ![A person presses the dispenser on the Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/FyAopSV5DycpP6m6J-epBDbO564=/fit-in/200x2666/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-pur-plus-30-cup-dispenser-dburreson-003-2-2b5047ab2e454a3cb64397cdf31c614f.jpeg) - ![A person drinks water filtered in the Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser while blindfolded](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/8nRMoNpoOPLz-HbA8zsf7-NfnW0=/fit-in/200x2666/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-water-filters-test-pur-plus-30-cup-dispenser-dburreson-61-3a6a6cc06faa4a5f955a0344b07bb2e0.jpeg) ![A person drinks water filtered in the Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser while blindfolded](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/8nRMoNpoOPLz-HbA8zsf7-NfnW0=/fit-in/200x2666/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-water-filters-test-pur-plus-30-cup-dispenser-dburreson-61-3a6a6cc06faa4a5f955a0344b07bb2e0.jpeg) ## Best Long-Lasting Filter [Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher](https://www.amazon.com/Brita-Drinking-Replacement-Capacity-Christmas/dp/B0B3BM3Z94?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844) [![Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher With Elite Filter](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/JM8n7Q5RKmr_vmKR7c4HFHOpvgM=/fit-in/1500x1000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/brita-tahoe-pitcher-006b0d9605ac47c4b7e7c54eec05c031.jpg) ![Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher With Elite Filter](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/JM8n7Q5RKmr_vmKR7c4HFHOpvgM=/fit-in/1500x1000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/brita-tahoe-pitcher-006b0d9605ac47c4b7e7c54eec05c031.jpg)](https://www.amazon.com/Brita-Drinking-Replacement-Capacity-Christmas/dp/B0B3BM3Z94?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844) Credit: Amazon [\$41 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/Brita-Drinking-Replacement-Capacity-Christmas/dp/B0B3BM3Z94?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844) [\$41 at Target](https://www.target.com/p/brita-water-filter-10-cup-tahoe-water-pitcher-dispenser-with-elite-water-filter-black/-/A-84665989) [\$41 at Home Depot](https://www.homedepot.com/p/Brita-Tahoe-10-Cup-Large-Water-Filter-Pitcher-in-White-with-1-Elite-Filter-6025850688/320327382) What Stands Out - The filter only has to be replaced twice a year, and it significantly improved the taste of our water. What Could Be Improved - The top tank is a little small and needs to be filled up several times before you have a full pitcher of water. This water filter pitcher uses Brita Elite filters, which only need to be replaced twice a year, compared to [every two months for standard filters](https://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/cleaning/how-long-do-brita-filters-last). In addition to removing chlorine for improved taste and smell, the activated carbon filters can remove other contaminants like cadmium and mercury, and the electronic indicator on top ensures you always know when you're due for a replacement. The filtered water was noticeably better in our blind taste test. Our control water had a thicker mouthfeel and a chlorine aftertaste, but the filtered water tasted light, crisp, and refreshing—it made us actually want to [drink more water and stay hydrated](https://www.realsimple.com/how-to-drink-more-water-7495589). In addition to improving the taste of our water, this pitcher is effortless to use. It went into our sink with no issue and fits well in the fridge despite its generous 10-cup capacity. The handle has a nice grip on it, and the pitcher is light enough to be lifted with one hand. Another big plus is the easy-fill lid which has a convenient tab you can press down to open up the top reservoir, saving you from fumbling around with the lid. The only drawback is that it takes several times to fill it up all the way, but overall, this pitcher is incredibly practical and helps you cut back on the number of filters you buy. Capacity: 10 cups \\| Dimensions: 10 by 6 by 10 in. \\| Filter Replacement Frequency: Every 120 gallons (about 6 months) \\| Dishwasher Safe: No - ![The Brita Water Pitcher pouring water into a glass](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/U7M_0Y3NcB2-jh4ZuYPbI5UXybA=/fit-in/1500x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-brita-tahoe-water-pitcher-elite-filter-dburreson-004-2-a64af522cc1842e6a1ce514f8cf319ed.jpeg) ![The Brita Water Pitcher pouring water into a glass](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/U7M_0Y3NcB2-jh4ZuYPbI5UXybA=/fit-in/1500x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-brita-tahoe-water-pitcher-elite-filter-dburreson-004-2-a64af522cc1842e6a1ce514f8cf319ed.jpeg) Credit: Real Simple - ![A person places a filter into the Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher with Elite Filter]() ![A person places a filter into the Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher with Elite Filter](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/KXlx6sBOukGbLXtabFxadgWxIzU=/fit-in/1500x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-water-filters-test-brita-tahoe-pitcher-elite-dburreson-98-d2c452c2d54349ec8b1be27d2a62eebc.jpeg) Credit: Real Simple - ![A person lifts up the Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher with Elite Filter]() ![A person lifts up the Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher with Elite Filter](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/jaPN_y-RsdBS7QTEoJqBX_N-Rrk=/fit-in/1500x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-water-filters-test-brita-tahoe-pitcher-elite-dburreson-103-a5144230f2cf4ee083a7f245c85b9604.jpeg) Credit: Real Simple - ![A person opens the top on the Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher with Elite Filter]() ![A person opens the top on the Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher with Elite Filter](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/ix5EkYmaLgDfOyp5t2S21eNyv2k=/fit-in/1500x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-brita-tahoe-water-pitcher-elite-filter-dburreson-004-1-f86fa66df92b4738a132ca0abcdbb7ac.jpeg) Credit: Real Simple - ![The Brita Water Pitcher pouring water into a glass](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/y59Ayow9vq2e9WP8QmHkM0sMI3k=/fit-in/200x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-brita-tahoe-water-pitcher-elite-filter-dburreson-004-2-a64af522cc1842e6a1ce514f8cf319ed.jpeg) ![The Brita Water Pitcher pouring water into a glass](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/y59Ayow9vq2e9WP8QmHkM0sMI3k=/fit-in/200x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-brita-tahoe-water-pitcher-elite-filter-dburreson-004-2-a64af522cc1842e6a1ce514f8cf319ed.jpeg) - ![A person places a filter into the Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher with Elite Filter](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/Mgo0IjHlIgP6ZBwT6FH3MVA7BZA=/fit-in/200x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-water-filters-test-brita-tahoe-pitcher-elite-dburreson-98-d2c452c2d54349ec8b1be27d2a62eebc.jpeg) ![A person places a filter into the Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher with Elite Filter](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/Mgo0IjHlIgP6ZBwT6FH3MVA7BZA=/fit-in/200x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-water-filters-test-brita-tahoe-pitcher-elite-dburreson-98-d2c452c2d54349ec8b1be27d2a62eebc.jpeg) - ![A person lifts up the Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher with Elite Filter](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/rLu9Kwj_kn6Iy6IeGMOjzBo2Fgg=/fit-in/200x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-water-filters-test-brita-tahoe-pitcher-elite-dburreson-103-a5144230f2cf4ee083a7f245c85b9604.jpeg) ![A person lifts up the Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher with Elite Filter](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/rLu9Kwj_kn6Iy6IeGMOjzBo2Fgg=/fit-in/200x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-water-filters-test-brita-tahoe-pitcher-elite-dburreson-103-a5144230f2cf4ee083a7f245c85b9604.jpeg) - ![A person opens the top on the Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher with Elite Filter](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/KTttxhBjN8iz_5a_0LmfskNOlxM=/fit-in/200x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-brita-tahoe-water-pitcher-elite-filter-dburreson-004-1-f86fa66df92b4738a132ca0abcdbb7ac.jpeg) ![A person opens the top on the Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher with Elite Filter](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/KTttxhBjN8iz_5a_0LmfskNOlxM=/fit-in/200x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-brita-tahoe-water-pitcher-elite-filter-dburreson-004-1-f86fa66df92b4738a132ca0abcdbb7ac.jpeg) ## Best for Well Water [Epic Water Filters Epic Nano](https://www.amazon.com/Epic-Water-Nanofiltration-Cryptosporidium-Pesticides/dp/B079VMK57F?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844) [![Epic Water Filters Epic Nano Water Filter Pitcher](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/NlGa4P638fOFc65XN-Vb2Z3GaRk=/fit-in/1500x1000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/Epic-Nano-Water-Filter-Pitcher-e9ea6bbbcf4c4348932ef0d4b8a4f370.jpg) ![Epic Water Filters Epic Nano Water Filter Pitcher](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/NlGa4P638fOFc65XN-Vb2Z3GaRk=/fit-in/1500x1000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/Epic-Nano-Water-Filter-Pitcher-e9ea6bbbcf4c4348932ef0d4b8a4f370.jpg)](https://www.amazon.com/Epic-Water-Nanofiltration-Cryptosporidium-Pesticides/dp/B079VMK57F?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844) Credit: Amazon [\$79 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/Epic-Water-Nanofiltration-Cryptosporidium-Pesticides/dp/B079VMK57F?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844) [\$79 at Epicwaterfilters.com](https://www.epicwaterfilters.com/products/epic-nano-water-filter-pitcher-navy-blue-removes-bacteria-virus-cysts) What Stands Out - The robust filter removes bacteria, pesticides, and heavy metals, and it does a great job of improving water taste. What Could Be Improved - It’s the most expensive on the list. The Epic Nano Water Filter Pitcher is one of the most robust pitchers we tested, making it a great choice for well-water drinkers. It uses an NSF-approved sub-micron filter that combines nanofiber technology and powdered activated carbon to remove 99.9% of contaminants like bacteria, heavy metals, and fluoride. It only needs to get replaced every 150 gallons, which is around three to four months of normal use. However, because this filter is very thorough, it did take about 12 minutes for the water in the reservoir to filter through. Aside from its powerful filter, we were impressed with this pitcher's smart design. It boasts a 10-cup capacity yet has a compact build that can easily squeeze onto fridge shelves without cluttering them, and it has a handy LED timer that lets you know when to swap in a new filter. We also liked how light it is, even when full, and it has a nice, smooth pour. We were wowed by this pitcher's ability to improve the taste of our water. While our tap tasted slightly metallic, the filtered water was fresh and clean. It improved the clarity of our tap water, removing its slight cloudiness and making it crystal clear. While pricey, we think this pitcher is well worth the cost based on its ease of use, comprehensive filter, and ability to improve water taste. Capacity: 10 cups \\| Dimensions: 10 by 10 by 8 in. \\| Filter Replacement Frequency: Every 150 gallons (about 3-4 months) \\| Dishwasher Safe: No - ![The Epic Water Filter Pitcher on a table]() ![The Epic Water Filter Pitcher on a table](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/QdL-ZWzqBxMj767UgDzQ80qlfg8=/fit-in/1500x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-product-epic-water-nano-filter-dburreson-011-7fc00e0e497d4477916b27e90a27e910.jpeg) Credit: Real Simple - ![A person pours water from the Epic Water Filter Pitcher into a glass]() ![A person pours water from the Epic Water Filter Pitcher into a glass](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/SdRKvcnMXlsFfnB7DFSwk1uBNug=/fit-in/1500x2666/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-epic-water-nano-filter-dburreson-011-2-ce8e4277d1694e2da0ca6a0d925cf74b.jpeg) Credit: Real Simple - ![The Epic Water Filter Pitcher top and indicator]() ![The Epic Water Filter Pitcher top and indicator](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/_8SaLBLrE4P5HrHgveVwX_1KoNk=/fit-in/1500x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-epic-water-nano-filter-dburreson-011-1-41b6705f05d048f386698fb33541b408.jpeg) Credit: Real Simple - ![A person pours water into the Epic Water Filter Pitcher]() ![A person pours water into the Epic Water Filter Pitcher](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/3sCjZaRgKzLTl0K9A3RbCzHZXDw=/fit-in/1500x2666/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-water-filters-test-epic-nano-dburreson-318-54db436c128d4eef9165d3b7705a6dbd.jpeg) Credit: Real Simple - ![The Epic Water Filter Pitcher on a table]() ![The Epic Water Filter Pitcher on a table](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/R9ELInr1slcKN3wYbS9YMaGDglk=/fit-in/200x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-product-epic-water-nano-filter-dburreson-011-7fc00e0e497d4477916b27e90a27e910.jpeg) - ![A person pours water from the Epic Water Filter Pitcher into a glass]() ![A person pours water from the Epic Water Filter Pitcher into a glass](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/e6xUBiXRbz7cvX7hKPoCw7QACUE=/fit-in/200x2666/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-epic-water-nano-filter-dburreson-011-2-ce8e4277d1694e2da0ca6a0d925cf74b.jpeg) - ![The Epic Water Filter Pitcher top and indicator]() ![The Epic Water Filter Pitcher top and indicator](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/7qCFEkuRhXPldOXYZHnVfQh80Rg=/fit-in/200x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-epic-water-nano-filter-dburreson-011-1-41b6705f05d048f386698fb33541b408.jpeg) - ![A person pours water into the Epic Water Filter Pitcher]() ![A person pours water into the Epic Water Filter Pitcher](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/zy69c8XGmGEmQ7PphvuvgT32fec=/fit-in/200x2666/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-water-filters-test-epic-nano-dburreson-318-54db436c128d4eef9165d3b7705a6dbd.jpeg) ## Final Verdict Our top pick is the [Brita 10-Cup Rapids Stream Water Pitcher](https://www.amazon.com/Brita-10060258362371-Rapids-Stream-Pitcher/dp/B01N3LBPYA?ascsubtag=6827844&tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20) because it's easy to set up, filters water quickly, and does a great job of improving its taste. If you're looking for a pitcher with a more robust filter, we recommend the [Epic Nano Water Filter Pitcher](https://www.amazon.com/Epic-Water-Nanofiltration-Cryptosporidium-Pesticides/dp/B079VMK57F?th=1&tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844), which can remove bacteria and heavy metals from well water. ## Our Testing Process To find the best water filter pitchers, we first took water samples from our New York City, Birmingham, and Des Moines offices and sent them off for analysis. We had the results analyzed by [Rick Andrew](https://www.linkedin.com/in/rickandrew/), principal consultant at Rick Andrew Consulting Services, who has 30 years of experience in preserving and maintaining clean drinking water. Though all the water turned out to be safe to drink, the water in Des Moines was the murkiest, so we tested 18 water filter pitches at that lab. For our initial test, we compared the control water (tap water) to the filtered water poured from the pitchers, taking note of what the different waters tasted and smelled like. After that, we used these pitchers for two weeks, filling them and drinking the filtered water every day. Throughout our testing period, we paid close attention to whether the pitcher made our water taste better, how easy it was to set up and use, and if the filter is worth the cost. ![hand holds the Pur Classic 11-Cup Water Filter Pitcher to fill with tap water]() ![hand holds the Pur Classic 11-Cup Water Filter Pitcher to fill with tap water](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/XP0GucTIeAC5qWutsHcpa-5ShMY=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-water-filters-test-pur-classic-11-cup-dburreson-38-5f9d4064c51a412faa998e68d4fe5ebe.jpeg) Credit: Real Simple ## How to Shop for Water Filter Pitchers Like a Pro ### Materials The most common materials for water filter pitchers are glass and plastic. They both have pros and cons, so the material you choose depends on your lifestyle. Plastic weighs less than glass and is more durable, so it’s ideal for people who live with small children and don’t want their pitcher to fall and shatter. On the other hand, glass is more sustainable than plastic. If you don’t mind the extra weight and fragility, a glass pitcher is a sleek and functional addition to your fridge. ### Capacity Water filter pitchers come in various sizes, and there isn’t one capacity necessarily better than the other. According to Ajami, “It's just a matter of how much time you have and how much water you need.” The smallest pitchers have a 5- to 6-cup capacity and are ideal for those who live solo or in tight quarters. Standard pitchers will fall within the 7- to 10-cup range. But if you need to filter a lot of water, opt for a filtered dispenser that can hold up to 30 cups of water. ### Filter Despite the number of water filters available, Ajami says that there are more similarities between them than differences. Most water filter pitchers use activated carbon to remove contaminants. The most effective type of filter is a carbon block filter, which contains activated carbon shaped into bricks. These filters have more surface area that comes in contact with the water, making them more adept at removing harmful substances, but they’re generally more expensive and can get clogged with debris. Granulated activated carbon filters are the most common filter type, though they are less effective because they offer less surface area. While they don’t clog as easily as a carbon block filter, they often let water trickle through after they’ve lost effectiveness. If you purchase a granulated activated carbon filter, you want to stay on top of regularly swapping out the filter. The effectiveness of carbon block and granulated activated carbon filters can vary based on how slowly water trickles through each filter. While some filters only improve the taste of water and remove chlorine, others can remove VOCs, asbestos, and other substances. A growing number of water filter pitchers, such as the [Hydros Glass Slim Pitcher](https://www.amazon.com/Hydros-Pitcher-Powered-Fill-Up-Capacity/dp/B09J1RL7V8/?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844), use coconut shelter carbon filters. This type of filter has a larger surface area than activated carbon, so they’re more efficient at removing contaminants from water. Coconut shell carbon is a renewable resource so it’s better for the environment, and it doesn’t leave black flecks in your water either. If you’re concerned about a specific contaminant, Ajami recommends using a resource like [SimpleLab](https://www.gosimplelab.com/data/water) (she discloses that since it’s new, its database is limited) or the [EWG](https://www.ewg.org/tapwater/). These tools can help you find the potential contaminants in your water, so you can choose a filter that addresses your needs. Ajami cautions: “If there is a serious issue with the water source, pitchers cannot necessarily clean that up. Just because you’re using a pitcher does not mean you’ll be able to take all the lead.” ![A person smells water filtered in the ZeroWater 12-Cup Ready-Pour 5-Stage Water Filter Pitcher]() ![A person smells water filtered in the ZeroWater 12-Cup Ready-Pour 5-Stage Water Filter Pitcher](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/Axx942d7qryEAqQVUkH9XkqoBwI=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-water-filters-test-zerowater-12-cup-ready-pour-pitcher-dburreson-265-66930db2dc094dce8fdc7b34870623b0.jpeg) Credit: Real Simple ## Questions You Might Ask ### Do all water filter pitchers remove bacteria? While most water filter pitchers can remove contaminants such as lead, copper, and chlorine, not all possess the materials to remove bacteria. Your tap water should be treated for bacteria already, but if it’s a concern for you, you’ll want to research filters that specify bacterial removal in their products. Most filter companies will include testing reports on their website, so you can check how efficient they are at removing certain kinds of bacteria before purchasing. For bacteria removal, we recommend the [Epic Nano Water Filter Pitcher](https://www.amazon.com/Epic-Water-Pitchers-Drinking-Bacteria/dp/B08NLBYZPY?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844), which has been tested to remove bacteria, giardia, cryptosporidium, and viruses. ### Who should use a water filter pitcher? Contrary to what you may think, water filter pitchers can benefit everyone, not just those with concerns about the quality of their tap water. Ajami emphasizes that “the water that comes out of your tap is highly tested and treated,” but mentions that your filtration needs can vary “depending on which location people are in.” If your water supply has an elevated level of contaminants, using a water filter pitcher can improve its quality for peace of mind. Another benefit that Ajami points out is that a water filter pitcher can [soften hard water](https://www.realsimple.com/beauty-fashion/skincare/hard-water-skin). “If \[people\] are cooking or boiling water, \[filtered water\] would leave less marks in their pots or other kitchen appliances," shes says. Additionally, “people like water filter pitchers just because of the taste,” which is a bonus if you [struggle with drinking enough water](https://www.realsimple.com/health/how-much-water-to-drink-day) daily. ## Take Our Word for It This article was written by [Jen Woo](https://www.realsimple.com/author/jen-woo), a design, lifestyle, and culture writer and content strategist with over 10 years of experience. To write this article, we tested 18 water filter pitchers in our lab and evaluated them based on their improvements to the taste and smell of our tap water, ease of use, and overall value. We also got expert advice on shopping for water filter pitchers from [Newsha Ajami](https://waterinthewest.stanford.edu/about/people/newsha-ajami), PhD, hydrologist and director of Urban Water Policy at Stanford University, and we had the results analyzed by water consultant [Rick Andrew](https://www.linkedin.com/in/rickandrew/), the principal consultant at Rick Andrew Consulting Services, who has 30 years of experience in preserving and maintaining clean drinking water. [How Much Water Should You Drink a Day? Plus Signs You're Hydrated](https://www.realsimple.com/health/how-much-water-to-drink-day) Explore more: - [Shopping](https://www.realsimple.com/shopping-6375141) - [Kitchen Products](https://www.realsimple.com/food-product-reviews-8648459) - [Tabletop Products](https://www.realsimple.com/tabletop-product-reviews-8648468) Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback\! Tell us why\! 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Readable Markdown	A water filter pitcher makes it easier to have great-tasting water on hand—without heavy metals and contaminants—and can seriously cut back on your plastic bottle usage. Plus, we all know staying hydrated is essential to your well-being, so having the right water filter pitcher can help you hit your daily water goals in a cinch. To help you find the best water filter pitcher for your needs, we tested 18 options in our lab and evaluated them based on their ability to improve the taste and smell of our tap water, their ease of use, and their overall value. We also consulted [Newsha Ajami](https://waterinthewest.stanford.edu/about/people/newsha-ajami), PhD, hydrologist and director of Urban Water Policy at Stanford University, for water filter pitcher advice from an expert. What Stands Out - It filters as you pour, so you don't have to wait for the basin to fill up, and it improved the taste of our water. What Could Be Improved - It only removes chlorine and no other contaminants. The Brita 10-Cup Rapids Stream Water Pitcher is our top pick because of its ease of use and performance in our testing. Setting up the pitcher was very straightforward—you just run it under cold water, clean the plastic container, and fill it up. Unlike its competitors, this pitcher filters water while you pour so you don’t have to wait ages for it to fill up. The filter began working instantly as we poured, and in no time we had a pitcher full of fresh water. It wasn't cumbersome to fill up or pour, and it fit under our sink without any hassle. We were also impressed at this pitcher's ability to improve the taste of our water. The control water had a chlorine aftertaste, while the filtered water tasted clean and crisp thanks to Brita's activated-carbon stream filter. We also noticed that the filtered water had a slightly clearer appearance than that of the control. However, if water quality is a major concern for you, know that this filter mostly removes chlorine and isn't equipped to filter other contaminants like heavy metals and bacteria. During our testing, we didn't find any drawbacks to this pitcher. Its compact size can easily fit in your refrigerator, and it's lightweight and easy to pour. It also comes with an electronic indicator on top, so you know when it's time to change the filter (around every two months). Capacity: 10 cups \\| Dimensions: 11 by 5 by 16 in. \\| Filter Replacement Frequency: Every 40 gallons (about 2 months) \\| Dishwasher Safe: No - ![The Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher on a kitchen table](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/SFRTOtTU8y4GN9slzyJWMolx3Os=/fit-in/1500x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-product-brita-water-filter-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-006-f022590e9a3e43a5ae4be9c7723bfa17.jpeg) Credit: Real Simple - ![A closeup of the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher top and filter indicator](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/Ma-KonHyMQOK6yj7LGhqP5sNpAo=/fit-in/1500x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-brita-water-filter-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-006-1-8657ccc8f194426c92473abf0b2f0f50.jpeg) Credit: Real Simple - ![A person pours water into a glass from the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/Qbn7Ou0VMzp7d-ozOeVYtIA3f6E=/fit-in/1500x2666/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-brita-water-filter-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-006-2-d94e8d98bf2c40a590542854920380b9.jpeg) Credit: Real Simple - ![A person washes the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/0LfDSppbvuuKquHvs2OI9gkWSt4=/fit-in/1500x2666/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-water-filters-test-brita-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-155-ccb588ab151c440a97a07bf9fb620bf5.jpeg) Credit: Real Simple - ![A person holds up glasses of water filtered in the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/-fAEDEo2G_EMWxjd3Ary0arSTHE=/fit-in/1500x2666/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-water-filters-test-brita-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-167-d290389552c6488b9f82c0a8a991e7bc.jpeg) Credit: Real Simple - ![The Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher on a kitchen table](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/orTVr0tyI_iQiN8clE76qnDAZU0=/fit-in/200x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-product-brita-water-filter-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-006-f022590e9a3e43a5ae4be9c7723bfa17.jpeg) - ![A closeup of the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher top and filter indicator](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/pTRAZQ1ZMyMci_ecxUZbg2qggfE=/fit-in/200x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-brita-water-filter-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-006-1-8657ccc8f194426c92473abf0b2f0f50.jpeg) - ![A person pours water into a glass from the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/vO6w1X1YIlQtqVgKafXuiQ-7aBA=/fit-in/200x2666/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-brita-water-filter-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-006-2-d94e8d98bf2c40a590542854920380b9.jpeg) - ![A person washes the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/iwymodjF2wU-4ePKy1dbIIjIXDE=/fit-in/200x2666/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-water-filters-test-brita-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-155-ccb588ab151c440a97a07bf9fb620bf5.jpeg) - ![A person holds up glasses of water filtered in the Brita Rapids Stream Water Pitcher](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/rxpizdfJ0kTABwfar_oVUSZUfBk=/fit-in/200x2666/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-water-filters-test-brita-10-cup-stream-rapids-pitcher-dispenser-dburreson-167-d290389552c6488b9f82c0a8a991e7bc.jpeg) What Stands Out - Its sleek, compact design saves space in the fridge, and it filters water as soon as it’s filled. What Could Be Improved - There’s no indicator that tells you when it’s time to replace the filter. This small pitcher is unique because it uses a coconut shell carbon filter, which is a new type of filter. Coconut shell carbon has more porosity, which means it's more efficient at removing contaminants, and it's more environmentally friendly to manufacture. Right after we set up this pitcher, we noticed the freshly filtered water had a slight metallic aftertaste compared to our control tap water, but it disappeared after we refiltered it. This water filter pitcher is sleek in design. It's slender at less than 5 inches wide, and we were able to fill it up with one hand which was quite convenient. Even though it doesn't have a handle, it wasn’t difficult to grasp and had a smooth pour. While we liked that the pitcher is made entirely out of glass for sustainability and easy cleaning, we wouldn't recommend this filter for someone living with small kids because it could easily break. Additionally, its smaller size means it has to get filled up more frequently, which may become a hassle if you live with others. We were especially impressed with the speed at which the filter worked, immediately filling up as our tap water entered its filter. However, there aren't any indicators that let you know when to replace the filter, so you'll need to set up reminders on your own. Capacity: 5 cups \\| Dimensions: 4 by 4 by 10.5 in. \\| Filter Replacement Frequency: 40 gallons (about two months) \\| Dishwasher Safe: Yes - ![The Hydros Glass Slim Pitcher on a table](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/-_vEnEi0-0pHPWwb_SPP2Mv49rI=/fit-in/1500x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-product-hydros-40-oz-water-filter-slim-pitcher-dburreson-008-9cf915275d61483db3a9fe28e1067388.jpeg) Credit: Real Simple - ![Hydros pouring water into a glass](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/4-PJbIO62iblFGSA_Yvye4f91yU=/fit-in/1500x2666/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-hydros-40-oz-water-filter-slim-pitcher-dburreson-008-2-24bef2a89bd54042a0e1081c0a6c977c.jpeg) Credit: Real Simple - ![A Hand opening Hydros](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/mkH9EvRT_CsN5IDnjDWEExIBqkw=/fit-in/1500x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-hydros-40-oz-water-filter-slim-pitcher-dburreson-008-1-8dd7641f13ec42d5a7bd27f23a27e545.jpeg) Credit: Real Simple - ![The Hydros Glass Slim Pitcher on a table](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/YazPopdUmNULeJEd1EAIf07ijco=/fit-in/200x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-product-hydros-40-oz-water-filter-slim-pitcher-dburreson-008-9cf915275d61483db3a9fe28e1067388.jpeg) - ![Hydros pouring water into a glass](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/9W1H-SxTnKo8wJSON1QSBmdKqRI=/fit-in/200x2666/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-hydros-40-oz-water-filter-slim-pitcher-dburreson-008-2-24bef2a89bd54042a0e1081c0a6c977c.jpeg) - ![A Hand opening Hydros](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/72fMbMFzB91gY3NOANzb39hrAWs=/fit-in/200x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-hydros-40-oz-water-filter-slim-pitcher-dburreson-008-1-8dd7641f13ec42d5a7bd27f23a27e545.jpeg) What Stands Out - Its space-saving design has an impressive 30-cup capacity, and the handles make it easy to carry. What Could Be Improved - Cleaning can be difficult if you have a smaller sink. People who don't want to refill their pitcher often or share a space with multiple household members may prefer using a water dispenser for its increased capacity and convenient spout. We recommend this filtered dispenser from Pur, which has a 30-cup capacity, a slim build that neatly tucks into your fridge, handles for easier carrying, and a robust filtration system that removes lead among other harmful contaminants. After filling the top portion of this dispenser about three-quarters of the way, it took about half an hour to filter through and filled the bottom tank up halfway. We immediately noticed an improvement in water taste and smell during our blind taste test. Our control tap water had a strong odor when compared with the filtered water, and the taste difference was like day and night: Our tap water tasted like chlorine while the filtered water tasted crisp and clean. We felt much more comfortable sipping on the glass that was filled by the dispenser. The instructions to set up this dispenser were a breeze to follow. We had to soak the filter for 15 minutes and then scrub the pitcher, which can be separated into three sections for easier cleaning. Inserting the filter and activating the indicator light was simple as well, and the inside of the pitcher has instructions to walk you through the process. Washing the bottom tank was a little more awkward due to its size, so keep that in mind if you have a smaller sink. The only thing that could improve this pitcher is a max fill line, and we enthusiastically recommend it if you're looking for a large-capacity dispenser that's easy to use. Capacity: 30 cups \\| Dimensions: 5 by 15 by 10 in. \\| Filter Replacement Frequency: Every 40 gallons (about 2 months) \\| Dishwasher Safe: Yes - ![The Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser on a table](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/gY5zEjpijVYDNWcW6az7VDIznow=/fit-in/1500x2666/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-product-pur-plus-30-cup-dispenser-dburreson-003-8a9ab4cd4b3f4d0fae6dc9e6cae92a82.jpeg) Credit: Real Simple - ![A person presses the dispenser on the Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/dbDJAmV_bf-xrokQcTfNzpYeLKg=/fit-in/1500x2666/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-pur-plus-30-cup-dispenser-dburreson-003-2-2b5047ab2e454a3cb64397cdf31c614f.jpeg) Credit: Real Simple - ![A person drinks water filtered in the Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser while blindfolded](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/KETmriBazbNBINhFEyyFfVpGLdQ=/fit-in/1500x2666/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-water-filters-test-pur-plus-30-cup-dispenser-dburreson-61-3a6a6cc06faa4a5f955a0344b07bb2e0.jpeg) Credit: Real Simple - ![The Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser on a table](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/CcgczWRSzLOPGT01lKm5N1VIilA=/fit-in/200x2666/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-product-pur-plus-30-cup-dispenser-dburreson-003-8a9ab4cd4b3f4d0fae6dc9e6cae92a82.jpeg) - ![A person presses the dispenser on the Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/FyAopSV5DycpP6m6J-epBDbO564=/fit-in/200x2666/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-pur-plus-30-cup-dispenser-dburreson-003-2-2b5047ab2e454a3cb64397cdf31c614f.jpeg) - ![A person drinks water filtered in the Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser while blindfolded](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/8nRMoNpoOPLz-HbA8zsf7-NfnW0=/fit-in/200x2666/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-water-filters-test-pur-plus-30-cup-dispenser-dburreson-61-3a6a6cc06faa4a5f955a0344b07bb2e0.jpeg) What Stands Out - The filter only has to be replaced twice a year, and it significantly improved the taste of our water. What Could Be Improved - The top tank is a little small and needs to be filled up several times before you have a full pitcher of water. This water filter pitcher uses Brita Elite filters, which only need to be replaced twice a year, compared to [every two months for standard filters](https://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/cleaning/how-long-do-brita-filters-last). In addition to removing chlorine for improved taste and smell, the activated carbon filters can remove other contaminants like cadmium and mercury, and the electronic indicator on top ensures you always know when you're due for a replacement. The filtered water was noticeably better in our blind taste test. Our control water had a thicker mouthfeel and a chlorine aftertaste, but the filtered water tasted light, crisp, and refreshing—it made us actually want to [drink more water and stay hydrated](https://www.realsimple.com/how-to-drink-more-water-7495589). In addition to improving the taste of our water, this pitcher is effortless to use. It went into our sink with no issue and fits well in the fridge despite its generous 10-cup capacity. The handle has a nice grip on it, and the pitcher is light enough to be lifted with one hand. Another big plus is the easy-fill lid which has a convenient tab you can press down to open up the top reservoir, saving you from fumbling around with the lid. The only drawback is that it takes several times to fill it up all the way, but overall, this pitcher is incredibly practical and helps you cut back on the number of filters you buy. Capacity: 10 cups \\| Dimensions: 10 by 6 by 10 in. \\| Filter Replacement Frequency: Every 120 gallons (about 6 months) \\| Dishwasher Safe: No - ![The Brita Water Pitcher pouring water into a glass](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/U7M_0Y3NcB2-jh4ZuYPbI5UXybA=/fit-in/1500x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-brita-tahoe-water-pitcher-elite-filter-dburreson-004-2-a64af522cc1842e6a1ce514f8cf319ed.jpeg) Credit: Real Simple - ![A person places a filter into the Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher with Elite Filter](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/KXlx6sBOukGbLXtabFxadgWxIzU=/fit-in/1500x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-water-filters-test-brita-tahoe-pitcher-elite-dburreson-98-d2c452c2d54349ec8b1be27d2a62eebc.jpeg) Credit: Real Simple - ![A person lifts up the Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher with Elite Filter](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/jaPN_y-RsdBS7QTEoJqBX_N-Rrk=/fit-in/1500x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-water-filters-test-brita-tahoe-pitcher-elite-dburreson-103-a5144230f2cf4ee083a7f245c85b9604.jpeg) Credit: Real Simple - ![A person opens the top on the Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher with Elite Filter](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/ix5EkYmaLgDfOyp5t2S21eNyv2k=/fit-in/1500x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-brita-tahoe-water-pitcher-elite-filter-dburreson-004-1-f86fa66df92b4738a132ca0abcdbb7ac.jpeg) Credit: Real Simple - ![The Brita Water Pitcher pouring water into a glass](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/y59Ayow9vq2e9WP8QmHkM0sMI3k=/fit-in/200x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-brita-tahoe-water-pitcher-elite-filter-dburreson-004-2-a64af522cc1842e6a1ce514f8cf319ed.jpeg) - ![A person places a filter into the Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher with Elite Filter](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/Mgo0IjHlIgP6ZBwT6FH3MVA7BZA=/fit-in/200x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-water-filters-test-brita-tahoe-pitcher-elite-dburreson-98-d2c452c2d54349ec8b1be27d2a62eebc.jpeg) - ![A person lifts up the Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher with Elite Filter](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/rLu9Kwj_kn6Iy6IeGMOjzBo2Fgg=/fit-in/200x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-water-filters-test-brita-tahoe-pitcher-elite-dburreson-103-a5144230f2cf4ee083a7f245c85b9604.jpeg) - ![A person opens the top on the Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher with Elite Filter](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/KTttxhBjN8iz_5a_0LmfskNOlxM=/fit-in/200x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-brita-tahoe-water-pitcher-elite-filter-dburreson-004-1-f86fa66df92b4738a132ca0abcdbb7ac.jpeg) What Stands Out - The robust filter removes bacteria, pesticides, and heavy metals, and it does a great job of improving water taste. What Could Be Improved - It’s the most expensive on the list. The Epic Nano Water Filter Pitcher is one of the most robust pitchers we tested, making it a great choice for well-water drinkers. It uses an NSF-approved sub-micron filter that combines nanofiber technology and powdered activated carbon to remove 99.9% of contaminants like bacteria, heavy metals, and fluoride. It only needs to get replaced every 150 gallons, which is around three to four months of normal use. However, because this filter is very thorough, it did take about 12 minutes for the water in the reservoir to filter through. Aside from its powerful filter, we were impressed with this pitcher's smart design. It boasts a 10-cup capacity yet has a compact build that can easily squeeze onto fridge shelves without cluttering them, and it has a handy LED timer that lets you know when to swap in a new filter. We also liked how light it is, even when full, and it has a nice, smooth pour. We were wowed by this pitcher's ability to improve the taste of our water. While our tap tasted slightly metallic, the filtered water was fresh and clean. It improved the clarity of our tap water, removing its slight cloudiness and making it crystal clear. While pricey, we think this pitcher is well worth the cost based on its ease of use, comprehensive filter, and ability to improve water taste. Capacity: 10 cups \\| Dimensions: 10 by 10 by 8 in. \\| Filter Replacement Frequency: Every 150 gallons (about 3-4 months) \\| Dishwasher Safe: No - ![The Epic Water Filter Pitcher on a table](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/QdL-ZWzqBxMj767UgDzQ80qlfg8=/fit-in/1500x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-product-epic-water-nano-filter-dburreson-011-7fc00e0e497d4477916b27e90a27e910.jpeg) Credit: Real Simple - ![A person pours water from the Epic Water Filter Pitcher into a glass](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/SdRKvcnMXlsFfnB7DFSwk1uBNug=/fit-in/1500x2666/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-epic-water-nano-filter-dburreson-011-2-ce8e4277d1694e2da0ca6a0d925cf74b.jpeg) Credit: Real Simple - ![The Epic Water Filter Pitcher top and indicator](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/_8SaLBLrE4P5HrHgveVwX_1KoNk=/fit-in/1500x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-epic-water-nano-filter-dburreson-011-1-41b6705f05d048f386698fb33541b408.jpeg) Credit: Real Simple - ![A person pours water into the Epic Water Filter Pitcher](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/3sCjZaRgKzLTl0K9A3RbCzHZXDw=/fit-in/1500x2666/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-water-filters-test-epic-nano-dburreson-318-54db436c128d4eef9165d3b7705a6dbd.jpeg) Credit: Real Simple - ![The Epic Water Filter Pitcher on a table](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/R9ELInr1slcKN3wYbS9YMaGDglk=/fit-in/200x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-product-epic-water-nano-filter-dburreson-011-7fc00e0e497d4477916b27e90a27e910.jpeg) - ![A person pours water from the Epic Water Filter Pitcher into a glass](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/e6xUBiXRbz7cvX7hKPoCw7QACUE=/fit-in/200x2666/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-epic-water-nano-filter-dburreson-011-2-ce8e4277d1694e2da0ca6a0d925cf74b.jpeg) - ![The Epic Water Filter Pitcher top and indicator](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/7qCFEkuRhXPldOXYZHnVfQh80Rg=/fit-in/200x2667/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-detail-epic-water-nano-filter-dburreson-011-1-41b6705f05d048f386698fb33541b408.jpeg) - ![A person pours water into the Epic Water Filter Pitcher](https://www.realsimple.com/thmb/zy69c8XGmGEmQ7PphvuvgT32fec=/fit-in/200x2666/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/rsp-water-filters-test-epic-nano-dburreson-318-54db436c128d4eef9165d3b7705a6dbd.jpeg) ## Final Verdict Our top pick is the [Brita 10-Cup Rapids Stream Water Pitcher](https://www.amazon.com/Brita-10060258362371-Rapids-Stream-Pitcher/dp/B01N3LBPYA?ascsubtag=6827844&tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20) because it's easy to set up, filters water quickly, and does a great job of improving its taste. If you're looking for a pitcher with a more robust filter, we recommend the [Epic Nano Water Filter Pitcher](https://www.amazon.com/Epic-Water-Nanofiltration-Cryptosporidium-Pesticides/dp/B079VMK57F?th=1&tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844), which can remove bacteria and heavy metals from well water. ## Our Testing Process To find the best water filter pitchers, we first took water samples from our New York City, Birmingham, and Des Moines offices and sent them off for analysis. We had the results analyzed by [Rick Andrew](https://www.linkedin.com/in/rickandrew/), principal consultant at Rick Andrew Consulting Services, who has 30 years of experience in preserving and maintaining clean drinking water. Though all the water turned out to be safe to drink, the water in Des Moines was the murkiest, so we tested 18 water filter pitches at that lab. For our initial test, we compared the control water (tap water) to the filtered water poured from the pitchers, taking note of what the different waters tasted and smelled like. After that, we used these pitchers for two weeks, filling them and drinking the filtered water every day. Throughout our testing period, we paid close attention to whether the pitcher made our water taste better, how easy it was to set up and use, and if the filter is worth the cost. Credit: Real Simple ## How to Shop for Water Filter Pitchers Like a Pro ### Materials The most common materials for water filter pitchers are glass and plastic. They both have pros and cons, so the material you choose depends on your lifestyle. Plastic weighs less than glass and is more durable, so it’s ideal for people who live with small children and don’t want their pitcher to fall and shatter. On the other hand, glass is more sustainable than plastic. If you don’t mind the extra weight and fragility, a glass pitcher is a sleek and functional addition to your fridge. ### Capacity Water filter pitchers come in various sizes, and there isn’t one capacity necessarily better than the other. According to Ajami, “It's just a matter of how much time you have and how much water you need.” The smallest pitchers have a 5- to 6-cup capacity and are ideal for those who live solo or in tight quarters. Standard pitchers will fall within the 7- to 10-cup range. But if you need to filter a lot of water, opt for a filtered dispenser that can hold up to 30 cups of water. ### Filter Despite the number of water filters available, Ajami says that there are more similarities between them than differences. Most water filter pitchers use activated carbon to remove contaminants. The most effective type of filter is a carbon block filter, which contains activated carbon shaped into bricks. These filters have more surface area that comes in contact with the water, making them more adept at removing harmful substances, but they’re generally more expensive and can get clogged with debris. Granulated activated carbon filters are the most common filter type, though they are less effective because they offer less surface area. While they don’t clog as easily as a carbon block filter, they often let water trickle through after they’ve lost effectiveness. If you purchase a granulated activated carbon filter, you want to stay on top of regularly swapping out the filter. The effectiveness of carbon block and granulated activated carbon filters can vary based on how slowly water trickles through each filter. While some filters only improve the taste of water and remove chlorine, others can remove VOCs, asbestos, and other substances. A growing number of water filter pitchers, such as the [Hydros Glass Slim Pitcher](https://www.amazon.com/Hydros-Pitcher-Powered-Fill-Up-Capacity/dp/B09J1RL7V8/?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844), use coconut shelter carbon filters. This type of filter has a larger surface area than activated carbon, so they’re more efficient at removing contaminants from water. Coconut shell carbon is a renewable resource so it’s better for the environment, and it doesn’t leave black flecks in your water either. If you’re concerned about a specific contaminant, Ajami recommends using a resource like [SimpleLab](https://www.gosimplelab.com/data/water) (she discloses that since it’s new, its database is limited) or the [EWG](https://www.ewg.org/tapwater/). These tools can help you find the potential contaminants in your water, so you can choose a filter that addresses your needs. Ajami cautions: “If there is a serious issue with the water source, pitchers cannot necessarily clean that up. Just because you’re using a pitcher does not mean you’ll be able to take all the lead.” Credit: Real Simple ## Questions You Might Ask ### Do all water filter pitchers remove bacteria? While most water filter pitchers can remove contaminants such as lead, copper, and chlorine, not all possess the materials to remove bacteria. Your tap water should be treated for bacteria already, but if it’s a concern for you, you’ll want to research filters that specify bacterial removal in their products. Most filter companies will include testing reports on their website, so you can check how efficient they are at removing certain kinds of bacteria before purchasing. For bacteria removal, we recommend the [Epic Nano Water Filter Pitcher](https://www.amazon.com/Epic-Water-Pitchers-Drinking-Bacteria/dp/B08NLBYZPY?tag=realsimple-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6827844), which has been tested to remove bacteria, giardia, cryptosporidium, and viruses. ### Who should use a water filter pitcher? Contrary to what you may think, water filter pitchers can benefit everyone, not just those with concerns about the quality of their tap water. Ajami emphasizes that “the water that comes out of your tap is highly tested and treated,” but mentions that your filtration needs can vary “depending on which location people are in.” If your water supply has an elevated level of contaminants, using a water filter pitcher can improve its quality for peace of mind. Another benefit that Ajami points out is that a water filter pitcher can [soften hard water](https://www.realsimple.com/beauty-fashion/skincare/hard-water-skin). “If \[people\] are cooking or boiling water, \[filtered water\] would leave less marks in their pots or other kitchen appliances," shes says. Additionally, “people like water filter pitchers just because of the taste,” which is a bonus if you [struggle with drinking enough water](https://www.realsimple.com/health/how-much-water-to-drink-day) daily. ## Take Our Word for It This article was written by [Jen Woo](https://www.realsimple.com/author/jen-woo), a design, lifestyle, and culture writer and content strategist with over 10 years of experience. To write this article, we tested 18 water filter pitchers in our lab and evaluated them based on their improvements to the taste and smell of our tap water, ease of use, and overall value. We also got expert advice on shopping for water filter pitchers from [Newsha Ajami](https://waterinthewest.stanford.edu/about/people/newsha-ajami), PhD, hydrologist and director of Urban Water Policy at Stanford University, and we had the results analyzed by water consultant [Rick Andrew](https://www.linkedin.com/in/rickandrew/), the principal consultant at Rick Andrew Consulting Services, who has 30 years of experience in preserving and maintaining clean drinking water.
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