🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 43 (from laksa081)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa043.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.seriouseats.com/best-water-filter-pitchers-6749876\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.seriouseats.com/best-water-filter-pitchers-6749876\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/best-water-filter-pitchers-6749876","crawl_time":1776084363,"first_indexed_time":1666198975,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,seriouseats!www,\/best-water-filter-pitchers-6749876 s443","src_root_hash":"3385208949286065243","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"The 4 Best Water Filter Pitchers of 2026, Tested & Reviewed","meta_descriptions":["We tested 12 water filter pitchers by verifying certifications and measuring flow rate. We have four top picks for water pitchers and filtered dispensers."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Straight to the Point\nThe best water filter pitcher is the\nLifeStraw Home Water Filter Pitcher\n.\nIt’s certified to remove lead, and its pleasing design will look right at home on the dinner table. We also like the\nBrita UltraMax Large Water Dispenser\nthat holds up to 27 cups of water.\nIt might surprise non-residents to learn that New York City, a place with an officially appointed rat czar, is blessed with pristine drinking water. It flows in from the Catskills\/Delaware system and arrives with a neutral taste and a silky smooth texture—my local consumer confidence report boasts that it’s “the Champagne of tap water.\n1\n” Unfortunately, the quality of the water source isn’t the only factor that influences what ends up in your glass. Water has to travel through pipes and may be stored in reservoirs before it reaches your home. Enter the water filter pitcher: an easy way to make sure each cup of water you sip is palatable.\nIf you have a full household that drinks a lot of water, you might prefer a filtered dispenser model with a large capacity. Pitchers hold less water but are better suited for placing on the table during meals. I tested 12 at-home water filter pitchers and dispensers to find ones that poured water smoothly.\nThe Tests\nAn unbiased taste test of water helped us determine which pitcher filters were best.\nSerious Eats\nFlow Rate Test:\nI calculated the flow rate of each pitcher and dispenser by timing how long it took to pour out four cups of water. \nFridge Fit Test:\nI placed each pitcher\/dispenser in the fridge, noting how difficult they were to transport and how much storage space they required. \nFiltration Blind Taste Test:\nI conducted a blind taste test to assess the impact of filtration on water flavor. With the help of a friend, I compared the taste profile of the filtered water from each pitcher\/dispenser to tap water and bottled water, noting any differences. \nUsability and Cleaning Tests:\nI used each device to pour one cup of water into two\nglasses\n, noting any splashes or difficulties. After testing, I cleaned each device according to the manufacturer's instructions, checking for any chips or scratches. \nWhat We Learned\nLook for Certifications \nLook for pitchers with filters that have been third-party certified for quality and purity.\nSerious Eats\nIf you’re concerned about water quality, checking your local consumer water supply report is a good place to start. The Environmental Protection Agency requires that water suppliers publish an annual\nConsumer Confidence Report.\nYou can also use a home kit to test your tap water for lead or other contaminants; many cities provide these kits for assessing water quality for free.\nThere are two main reasons to filter your tap water: to remove contaminants or to improve the taste (which\nsome coffee aficionados\nwill tell you makes a real difference when brewing your morning cuppa). Understanding your goal will help you make the best decision when purchasing a water filtration system. If you’re concerned about specific contaminants, you’ll need a filter certified to remove them. You have more options if you’re simply hoping to improve the taste.\nThe LifeStraw pitcher meets the National Sanitation Foundation standards for filtering PFOA and PFOS.\nSerious Eats\nNot all filters are the same, though, and some may capture certain contaminants better than others. If you’re concerned about a specific element, such as lead, look for a pitcher that has been independently tested and certified for lead removal by a trusted agency. The New York State Department of Health recommends the\nNSF\n,\nUL\n, and\nWater Quality Association\nas trusted certifying bodies.\nHow do water filters work?\nAll of the pitchers and dispensers filter water by passing it from a reservoir at the top of the device through a filter and into a basin. (These are called gravity models.) This pitcher style typically uses activated carbon (charcoal) filters that attract chemicals. Carbon filters effectively remove certain elements, such as chlorine, but they cannot remove bacteria. Chlorine, which is commonly added to tap water to kill germs, is often the culprit behind unpleasant flavors. Activated charcoal filters can remove this chemical and help improve the water’s taste. Gravity filters are generally less powerful than pressurized reverse osmosis systems (which are installed under the sink). \nDispensers and Pitchers Should Be Easy to Refill\nThe best water filter pitchers can be refilled without removing their lids.\nSerious Eats\nWater filter pitchers and dispensers see a decent amount of action. They need to be filled, refilled, plopped in the fridge, and repeatedly handled. The right design elements make these otherwise tedious tasks easier. My favorite pitchers and dispensers, namely the\nBrita UltraMax\nand\nLifeStraw\n, can be filled from the sink without removing the lid; instead, they have a slide top that stays open for hands-free filling. Other models, including the\nLARQ 8-Cup Water Filter Pitcher\nand the\nWaterdrop Lucid 10-Cup\n, featured trapdoor-style portals that open under the weight of running water. Although they were easy to use, they required running water over the exterior of the pitcher, which can be a little splashy and may not be sanitary. The\nPUR PLUS 30-Cup Water Filter Dispenser\nand\nAmazonBasics 10-Cup Water Pitcher\nrequire you to remove the entire lid each time you refill. \nMaterial quality also affects the refilling process. Brittle plastic models like the\nBrita Denali Water Pitcher With Elite Filter\nand the\nBrita Tahoe Water Pitcher With Elite Filter\nchipped and scratched easily when handled.  \nStraight Sides Made Storage Easy\nWater filter dispensers with straight sides and right angles were easiest to store.\nSerious Eats\nThe majority of pitchers and dispensers that I tested featured straight walls that fit nicely on a refrigerator shelf next to other items. The\nPur 10-Cup Pitcher\nwas a notable exception—this large, cylindrical pitcher took up more than its fair share of fridge space. The\nZeroWater 10-Cup Ready-Pour 5-Stage Water Filter Pitcher\nalso presented some storage challenges. Although it’s narrow, its ridges and overhangs increased its overall footprint without increasing capacity. In general, the dispenser models made good use of space—these slim, rectangular vessels use tall straight walls to offer maximum capacity, and it’s easy to stack products next to them. Admittedly, the Lifestraw, one of my favorites, is cylindrical. Even though it can’t tessellate neatly with cartons or containers, it has a small base and tall walls that maximize its storage capacity without hogging the shelf. \nWater Dispensers vs. Water Filter Pitchers\nPitchers were faster pourers, but dispensers could be used one-handed.\nSerious Eats\nIf you’re in a hurry, pitchers are the way to go. During the flow rate test, all of the pitcher models poured four cups of water much more quickly than the dispensers. Filter dispensers, on the other hand, provided an easier glass-filling experience. Pouring water from a pitcher is a two-handed process—one to hold the pitcher, one to stabilize the glass. Dispensers don’t need to be held (they’re designed to rest on refrigerator shelves). Except for the\nWaterdrop Slim Water Filter Dispenser\n, all of the dispensers included tabs that could lock into place. This made it possible to fill a glass of water quickly with one hand. \nThe Criteria: What to Look for in a Water Filter Pitcher or Dispenser\nSerious Eats\nThe best water filtration devices are made from durable materials and use independently certified filters. Consider your household hydration needs and look for a pitcher that holds enough water to last a few days. For easy access, choose a model that can be refilled without removing the lid. I also preferred pitchers and dispensers that were quick to pour from. \nOur Favorite Water Filter Pitchers and Dispensers\nWhat we liked:\nThe LifeStraw carbon filter boasts a variety of independent certifications from NSF, as well as WQA and ANSI-accredited laboratories. It’s proven to remove lead, mercury, and chlorine to improve water safety and flavor. The LifeStraw is equipped with two filters—a carbon filter and a membrane microfilter—giving it the power to remove bacteria as well as dissolved solids. This pitcher has a tight-fitting lid and pours water smoothly. It can be refilled through a flap without removing the top. This elegant pitcher doubles as a lovely way to present water on the table. It’s available in several colors and materials, including a glass model. \nWhat we didn’t like:\nThis tall pitcher may be difficult to fit on smaller refrigerator shelves. The dark plastic body sustained a few visible scratches during testing. \nCredit: Serious Eats\nCredit: Serious Eats\nCredit: Serious Eats\nKey Specs\nCapacity:\n7 cups\nDimensions:\n6.44 x 14.44 x 9.44 inches\nReplacement filter cost:\n$14\nFilter capacity:\n40 gallons\nCertifications:\nMeets US EPA & NSF P231 drinking water standards for the removal of bacteria and parasites\nWhat we liked:\nThe LARQ pitcher’s straight sides and rounded edges stack neatly against other items in the fridge. This model is designed with an open handle that is easy to grab and hold for transportation or pouring. The plastic body resisted scratching during testing and feels unlikely to chip. \nWhat we didn’t like:\nWith a subscription price of $26 ($33 without a subscription), these were the most expensive replacement filters I tested.\nCredit: Serious Eats\nCredit: Serious Eats\nCredit: Serious Eats\nKey Specs\nCapacity:\n8 cups\nDimensions:\n9 x 5.5 x 10 inches\nReplacement filter cost\n$26 with a subscription, $33 standard\nFilter capacity:\n60 gallons\nCertifications:\nCertified for the improvement of taste and odor under NSF\/ANSI standards 42, 53, and 401\nWhat we liked:\nThe Brita UltraMax holds up to 27 cups of water—enough to hydrate the whole family. Built-in handles and a hinged top make refilling easier. This dispenser’s narrow design and smooth, straight sides streamline storage and simplify cleanup. The dispenser tap was easy to use and can click into place for hands-free dispensing. I did not observe any unwelcoming dripping from the spigot during testing. \nWhat we didn’t like:\nThe dispenser nozzle is a little short—the entire device needs to be very close to the edge of a shelf to accommodate a glass. The plastic body is slightly brittle and may chip over time.\nCredit: Serious Eats\nCredit: Serious Eats\nCredit: Serious Eats\nKey Specs\nCapacity:\n27 cups\nDimensions:\n14.37 x 5.67 x 10.47 inches\nReplacement filter cost\n$15 \nFilter capacity:\n40 gallons\nCertifications:\nCertified for the improvement of taste and odor under NSF\/ANSI Standard 42\nWhat we liked:\nThe PUR PLUS dispenser delivers maximum capacity without taking up additional fridge space. Its slim body fits neatly onto shelves, leaving plenty of room for\nstorage containers\nor other items to line up next to its straight sides. This was one of the only dishwasher-safe models—an easy solution for an occasional deep clean. The PUR PLUS offers affordable filter replacements with NFS certifications. \nWhat we didn’t like:\nThis is one of the only models that requires completely removing the lid to refill the dispenser, which was slightly annoying but not a dealbreaker. \nCredit: Serious Eats\nCredit: Serious Eats\nCredit: Serious Eats\nKey Specs\nCapacity:\n30 cups\nDimensions:\n15.3 x 5.3 x 10.1 inches\nReplacement filter cost\n$25 for 3 \nFilter capacity:\n40 gallons\nCertifications:\nNSF certified to reduce microplastics found in tap and bottled water.\nThe Competition\nBrita Denali Water Pitcher With Elite Filter\n: This was a solid pitcher with several certifications and space-saving straight sides. However, this model lost points because the lightweight plastic scratched easily.   \nBrita Tahoe Water Pitcher With Elite Filter\n: This pitcher is made from brittle plastic and breaks easily. It arrived chipped and sustained additional scratches during the testing process.\nZeroWater 10-Cup Ready-Pour 5-Stage Water Filter Pitcher\n: This pitcher performed well in the taste test, but its ridged design wasted space and complicated cleanup. \nWaterdrop 200-Gallon Long-Life Lucid 10-Cup Water Filter Pitcher\n: I liked this model’s durable, scratch-resistant material. A slightly splashy pour and expensive filters kept it from claiming a top spot. \nAmazonBasics 10-Cup Water\n. This lightweight, brittle pitcher imparted a faint plasticky taste to filtered water. \nWaterdrop Slim Water Filter Dispenser\nA solid device with a well-designed angled basin that dispenses every last drop of water, this model lost points because the plastic dispensing nozzle felt cheap and brittle. \nZeroWater 22-Cup Water Filter Dispenser\n. During testing, water leaked around the edge of the filter and didn't pass through it. \nPur 10-Cup Pitcher\n: This model pours and filters nicely, but its bulbous design hogs space in the refrigerator compared to straight-sided alternatives.  \nFAQs\nAre water filter pitchers the same as water purifiers?\nA water filter pitcher is a type of water purifier. That said the term \"filter\" is easier to quantify and regulate than \"purify.\" Water can be cleaned by passing through physical filters or by other means, such as UV light.\nHow does a water filter pitcher work?\nWater filter pitchers use gravity to pass tap water through a carbon filtration system that removes certain impurities. They’re typically built with a reservoir at the top, a filter, and a basin. Unfiltered water is poured into the reservoir, gravity pulls it through the filter, and it’s stored in the pitcher basin until it’s consumed. \nHow can I find out what is in my tap water? \nThe EPA requires that local water suppliers publish a\nConsumer Confidence Report\nevery year. Check your local report to learn about the minerals and contaminants found in public drinking water at treatment facilities. Water can sometimes pick up impurities after it leaves a facility if it passes through damaged or lead pipes. You can test your home tap with a\nwater quality kit\nto determine exactly what’s in your H2O.  \nWhich water filter pitcher removes the most contaminants like PFAS?\nA report from the\nMinnesota Department of Health\nshows that carbon filters, like those used in gravity-powered pitchers, can effectively reduce PFAs when used properly. Changing your filter frequently will ensure its efficacy. Compared to carbon filters, pressurized\nreverse osmosis filters\nremove a greater percentage of contaminants.  \nDo water pitchers or dispensers filter out bacteria?\nThe majority of home water filter pitchers use activated carbon filters to remove contaminants. These filters remove dissolved solids and chlorine, but they have not been proven to remove bacteria or germs. Some evidence suggests that eliminating chlorine without removing bacteria creates an environment where the bacteria can breed easily.\nWhat's the best glass water filter pitcher?\nWe didn't test glass water filters in this test. Because glass is breakable, they're not ideal for daily, frequent use. That said, some of our favorite filter pitchers, like the\nLARQ PureVis,\nare made from BPA-free plastic.\nWhat's the best faucet water filter?\nWhen we tested faucet-mounted water filters, we chose two winners: the\nBrita Faucet Mount Water Filtration System\nand the Culligan FM-25 Faucet-Mount Advanced Water Filtration System. You can read our\nfull review here\n.\nWhy We’re the Experts\nMadeline Muzzi\nis a writer, editor, and video producer. She has written many reviews for Serious Eats, including\nwine decanters\n,\nmini mortar and pestles\n, and\ncountertop ice makers\n.\nFor this review, Madeline tested 12 water filter pitchers and dispensers to find ones that were easy to use and third-party certified.","attrs_markdown":"[Skip to Content](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/best-water-filter-pitchers-6749876#skip-to-content)\n\n[My Saves](https:\/\/www.myrecipes.com\/)\n\nbutton\n\nbutton\n\n- [Recipes](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/all-recipes-5117985)\n  - [Recipes by Course](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/recipes-by-course-5117906)\n  - [Recipes by Ingredient](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/recipes-by-ingredient-recipes-5117749)\n  - [Recipes by Cuisine](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/recipes-by-world-cuisine-5117277)\n  - [Recipes by Method](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/recipes-by-method-5117399)\n  - [Recipes by Diet](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/recipes-by-diet-5117779)\n  - [Recipes by Holiday & Season](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/holiday-season-recipes-5117984)\n  - 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[Food Science](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/food-science-5118036)\n  - [Personal Essays](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/personal-essays-5118035)\n  - [View all](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/features-5118040)\n- [About us](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/about-us-5120006)\n- Newsletter\n- [My Saves](https:\/\/www.myrecipes.com\/)\n- Get fresh recipes, cooking tips, deal alerts, and more\\!\n- - [About Us](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/about-us-5120006)\n  - [Contact Us](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/about-us-5120006#toc-contact-us)\n\nWe [independently evaluate](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/commerce-guidelines-and-mission-5120865) all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.\n\n# I Tested 12 Water Filter Pitchers and Dispensers and Found Four Smooth Pourers\nThe best water filter pitcher is from LifeStraw, while the Brita UltraMax was the top water dispenser.\n\nBy\n\n[Madeline Muzzi](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/madeline-muzzi-5193669)\n\n![Madeline Muzzi Headshot]()\n\n![Madeline Muzzi Headshot](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/tTJDHBGgJzngP4KO4Ohj6Qc5pfc=\/200x200\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/IMG_3897-20530d5f68824abbb9917b2de9d30039.jpg)\n\n[Madeline Muzzi](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/madeline-muzzi-5193669)\n\nWriter\n\nMadeline Muzzi is a food writer with more than 10 years of experience covering cooking, restaurants and wine. She is an accomplished cook and certified sommelier.\n\nLearn about Serious Eats' [Editorial Process](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/about-us-5120006#toc-editorial-guidelines)\n\nUpdated February 19, 2026\n\n![the lineup of water filter pitchers on a blue countertop](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/5imF2XzzX4YnOnh6t-w2FWM9i9k=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/water-pitchers-group-shot-AC-resize-804d101ce936406c9d91b510417f0949.jpg)\n\n![the lineup of water filter pitchers on a blue countertop](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/5imF2XzzX4YnOnh6t-w2FWM9i9k=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/water-pitchers-group-shot-AC-resize-804d101ce936406c9d91b510417f0949.jpg)\n\nSerious Eats\n\nIn This Article\n\nExpand\n\n- [Top Picks](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/best-water-filter-pitchers-6749876#toc-top-picks)\n- [The Tests](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/best-water-filter-pitchers-6749876#toc-the-tests)\n- [What We Learned](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/best-water-filter-pitchers-6749876#toc-what-we-learned)\n- [The Criteria](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/best-water-filter-pitchers-6749876#toc-the-criteria-what-to-look-for-in-a-water-filter-pitcher-or-dispenser)\n- [Our Favorite Water Filter Pitchers](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/best-water-filter-pitchers-6749876#toc-our-favorite-water-filter-pitchers-and-dispensers)\n- [The Competition](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/best-water-filter-pitchers-6749876#toc-the-competition)\n- [FAQs](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/best-water-filter-pitchers-6749876#toc-faqs)\n- [Why We’re the Experts](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/best-water-filter-pitchers-6749876#toc-why-were-the-experts)\n\n### Straight to the Point\nThe best water filter pitcher is the [LifeStraw Home Water Filter Pitcher](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/LifeStraw-Home-Water-Filter-Pitcher\/dp\/B0BBSL6P2P?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876)*.* It’s certified to remove lead, and its pleasing design will look right at home on the dinner table. We also like the [Brita UltraMax Large Water Dispenser](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Brita-UltraMax-Filtered-Water-Dispenser\/dp\/B09WBX1WKC?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) that holds up to 27 cups of water.\n\nIt might surprise non-residents to learn that New York City, a place with an officially appointed rat czar, is blessed with pristine drinking water. It flows in from the Catskills\/Delaware system and arrives with a neutral taste and a silky smooth texture—my local consumer confidence report boasts that it’s “the Champagne of tap water.1” Unfortunately, the quality of the water source isn’t the only factor that influences what ends up in your glass. Water has to travel through pipes and may be stored in reservoirs before it reaches your home. Enter the water filter pitcher: an easy way to make sure each cup of water you sip is palatable.\n\nIf you have a full household that drinks a lot of water, you might prefer a filtered dispenser model with a large capacity. Pitchers hold less water but are better suited for placing on the table during meals. I tested 12 at-home water filter pitchers and dispensers to find ones that poured water smoothly.\n\n## Top Picks\nThe Best Water Filter Pitcher:\n\n[LifeStraw Home Water Filter Pitcher at Amazon \\$50](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B089QWCT6R?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876)\n\n[Jump to Review](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/best-water-filter-pitchers-6749876#toc-the-best-water-filter-pitcher-lifestraw-home-water-filter-pitcher)\n\nThe Best Splurge Water Filter Pitcher:\n\n[Larq PureVis Water Filter Pitcher at Amazon \\$168](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/LARQ-Pitcher-PureVis-Advanced-Filter\/dp\/B00CWY0CY6?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876)\n\n[Jump to Review](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/best-water-filter-pitchers-6749876#toc-the-best-splurge-water-filter-pitcher-larq-purevis-water-filter-pitcher)\n\nThe Best Water Filter Dispenser:\n\n[Brita XL Water Filter Dispenser at Amazon \\$38](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Brita-UltraMax-Filtered-Water-Dispenser\/dp\/B09WBX1WKC?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876)\n\n[Jump to Review](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/best-water-filter-pitchers-6749876#toc-the-best-water-filter-dispenser-brita-xl-water-filter-dispenser)\n\nThe Best Extra-Large Water Filter Dispenser:\n\nSALE\n\n[Pur Plus Dispenser at Amazon ~~\\$43~~ \\$27](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B07CRSK5KX?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876)\n\n[Jump to Review](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/best-water-filter-pitchers-6749876#toc-the-best-extra-large-water-filter-dispenser-pur-plus-30-cup-dispenser)\n## The Tests\n![a person blind-tasting filtered water ](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/dA9xIsr4Mwi8m6Q1HlE2aCEZfxw=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/sea-water-filter-pitchers-blind-taste-test-madeline-muzzi-a7b0bd24c0fe4b98bb2bf19501c30c5a.jpeg)\n\n![a person blind-tasting filtered water ](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/dA9xIsr4Mwi8m6Q1HlE2aCEZfxw=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/sea-water-filter-pitchers-blind-taste-test-madeline-muzzi-a7b0bd24c0fe4b98bb2bf19501c30c5a.jpeg)\n\nAn unbiased taste test of water helped us determine which pitcher filters were best.\n\nSerious Eats\n\n- **Flow Rate Test:** I calculated the flow rate of each pitcher and dispenser by timing how long it took to pour out four cups of water.\n- **Fridge Fit Test:** I placed each pitcher\/dispenser in the fridge, noting how difficult they were to transport and how much storage space they required.\n- **Filtration Blind Taste Test:** I conducted a blind taste test to assess the impact of filtration on water flavor. With the help of a friend, I compared the taste profile of the filtered water from each pitcher\/dispenser to tap water and bottled water, noting any differences.\n- **Usability and Cleaning Tests:** I used each device to pour one cup of water into two [glasses](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/best-drinking-glasses-7368442), noting any splashes or difficulties. After testing, I cleaned each device according to the manufacturer's instructions, checking for any chips or scratches.\n## What We Learned\n### Look for Certifications\n![a water filter pitcher pouring water into a glass](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/SqI18s6ufRprIXkkWRwNrU6zSOk=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/sea-pur-water-pitcher-filtration-system-7-cup-lifestyle-photo-abigail-clarkin-02.jpg-0883ebbf6c354e0e859ea8998a1b8cd2.jpg)\n\n![a water filter pitcher pouring water into a glass](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/SqI18s6ufRprIXkkWRwNrU6zSOk=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/sea-pur-water-pitcher-filtration-system-7-cup-lifestyle-photo-abigail-clarkin-02.jpg-0883ebbf6c354e0e859ea8998a1b8cd2.jpg)\n\nLook for pitchers with filters that have been third-party certified for quality and purity.\n\nSerious Eats\n\nIf you’re concerned about water quality, checking your local consumer water supply report is a good place to start. The Environmental Protection Agency requires that water suppliers publish an annual [Consumer Confidence Report.](https:\/\/ordspub.epa.gov\/ords\/safewater\/f?p=136:102::::::) You can also use a home kit to test your tap water for lead or other contaminants; many cities provide these kits for assessing water quality for free.\n\nThere are two main reasons to filter your tap water: to remove contaminants or to improve the taste (which [some coffee aficionados](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/make-better-pourover-coffee-how-pourover-works-temperature-timing) will tell you makes a real difference when brewing your morning cuppa). Understanding your goal will help you make the best decision when purchasing a water filtration system. If you’re concerned about specific contaminants, you’ll need a filter certified to remove them. You have more options if you’re simply hoping to improve the taste.\n\n![Water inside the LifeStraw Home Water Filter Pitcher](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/QE5BRndZhVAF-UFf8Fcpqf_mTFM=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/sea-lifestraw-home-10-cup-pitcher-lifestyle-faulty-handle-photo-abigail-clarkin-01-f1cd9c5200e04d5b86736b5b2746a012.jpeg)\n\n![Water inside the LifeStraw Home Water Filter Pitcher](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/QE5BRndZhVAF-UFf8Fcpqf_mTFM=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/sea-lifestraw-home-10-cup-pitcher-lifestyle-faulty-handle-photo-abigail-clarkin-01-f1cd9c5200e04d5b86736b5b2746a012.jpeg)\n\nThe LifeStraw pitcher meets the National Sanitation Foundation standards for filtering PFOA and PFOS.\n\nSerious Eats\n\nNot all filters are the same, though, and some may capture certain contaminants better than others. If you’re concerned about a specific element, such as lead, look for a pitcher that has been independently tested and certified for lead removal by a trusted agency. The New York State Department of Health recommends the [NSF](http:\/\/www.nsf.org\/consumer-resources\/health-and-safety-tips\/water-quality-treatment-tips\/), [UL](https:\/\/ul.com\/code-authorities\/environmental-and-public-health\/drinking-water\/), and [Water Quality Association](https:\/\/wqa.org\/) as trusted certifying bodies.\n\n### How do water filters work?\nAll of the pitchers and dispensers filter water by passing it from a reservoir at the top of the device through a filter and into a basin. (These are called gravity models.) This pitcher style typically uses activated carbon (charcoal) filters that attract chemicals. Carbon filters effectively remove certain elements, such as chlorine, but they cannot remove bacteria. Chlorine, which is commonly added to tap water to kill germs, is often the culprit behind unpleasant flavors. Activated charcoal filters can remove this chemical and help improve the water’s taste. Gravity filters are generally less powerful than pressurized reverse osmosis systems (which are installed under the sink).\n\n### Dispensers and Pitchers Should Be Easy to Refill\n![filling a water dispenser](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/TzGlBIUrbY2-8EeKyh7UCz0Qruc=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/sea-water-filter-pitchers-brita-ultramax-large-dispenser-3-madeline-muzzi-cfed62064d3849cb9f76a6b215b106da.jpeg)\n\n![filling a water dispenser](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/TzGlBIUrbY2-8EeKyh7UCz0Qruc=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/sea-water-filter-pitchers-brita-ultramax-large-dispenser-3-madeline-muzzi-cfed62064d3849cb9f76a6b215b106da.jpeg)\n\nThe best water filter pitchers can be refilled without removing their lids.\n\nSerious Eats\n\nWater filter pitchers and dispensers see a decent amount of action. They need to be filled, refilled, plopped in the fridge, and repeatedly handled. The right design elements make these otherwise tedious tasks easier. My favorite pitchers and dispensers, namely the [Brita UltraMax](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Brita-UltraMax-Filtered-Water-Dispenser\/dp\/B09WBX1WKC?th=1&tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) and [LifeStraw](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/LifeStraw-Home-Water-Filter-Pitcher\/dp\/B0BBSL6P2P?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876), can be filled from the sink without removing the lid; instead, they have a slide top that stays open for hands-free filling. Other models, including the [LARQ 8-Cup Water Filter Pitcher](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/LARQ-Filtered-Drinking-Chlorine-Standards\/dp\/B0CPFSST74?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) and the [Waterdrop Lucid 10-Cup](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Waterdrop-200-Gallon-Long-Life-Replacement-Filtration\/dp\/B09JGB2ZYL?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876), featured trapdoor-style portals that open under the weight of running water. Although they were easy to use, they required running water over the exterior of the pitcher, which can be a little splashy and may not be sanitary. The [PUR PLUS 30-Cup Water Filter Dispenser](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/PUR-Dispenser-Capacity-Filtration-Dishwasher\/dp\/B0C7FL37MG?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) and [AmazonBasics 10-Cup Water Pitcher](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Amazon-Basics-Pitcher-Included-Compatible\/dp\/B07YT18P21?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) require you to remove the entire lid each time you refill.\n\nMaterial quality also affects the refilling process. Brittle plastic models like the [Brita Denali Water Pitcher With Elite Filter](https:\/\/www.brita.com\/products\/denali-pitcher-elite\/) and the [Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher With Elite Filter](https:\/\/www.walmart.com\/ip\/Brita-Large-10-Cup-Black-Tahoe-Water-Filter-Pitcher-with-1-Brita-Elite-Filter-Made-Without-BPA\/1683904748) chipped and scratched easily when handled.\n\n### Straight Sides Made Storage Easy\n![a water dispenser next to a few bottles of wine in the fridge](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/o6rXym6ulLPt_YGeSZ6EiHfaIrU=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/sea-water-filter-pitchers-brita-ultramax-large-dispenser-5-madeline-muzzi-5e82eb2e39744f539c5a959fa10ce63d.jpeg)\n\n![a water dispenser next to a few bottles of wine in the fridge](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/o6rXym6ulLPt_YGeSZ6EiHfaIrU=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/sea-water-filter-pitchers-brita-ultramax-large-dispenser-5-madeline-muzzi-5e82eb2e39744f539c5a959fa10ce63d.jpeg)\n\nWater filter dispensers with straight sides and right angles were easiest to store.\n\nSerious Eats\n\nThe majority of pitchers and dispensers that I tested featured straight walls that fit nicely on a refrigerator shelf next to other items. The [Pur 10-Cup Pitcher](https:\/\/www.pur.com\/shop\/pitchers\/pur-10-cup-pitcher-walmart\/) was a notable exception—this large, cylindrical pitcher took up more than its fair share of fridge space. The [ZeroWater 10-Cup Ready-Pour 5-Stage Water Filter Pitcher](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/ZeroWater-Pitcher-Quality-BPA-Free-Certified\/dp\/B0073PZ6O0?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) also presented some storage challenges. Although it’s narrow, its ridges and overhangs increased its overall footprint without increasing capacity. In general, the dispenser models made good use of space—these slim, rectangular vessels use tall straight walls to offer maximum capacity, and it’s easy to stack products next to them. Admittedly, the Lifestraw, one of my favorites, is cylindrical. Even though it can’t tessellate neatly with cartons or containers, it has a small base and tall walls that maximize its storage capacity without hogging the shelf.\n\n### Water Dispensers vs. Water Filter Pitchers\n![an overhead view of water filter pitchers and dispensers on a wooden surface](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/MfmppV7mfulbEA2jk32zr5z-rcY=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/sea-water-filter-pitchers-group-image-3-madeline-muzzi-56cc3f7f5bd24d9d871a88ed82176875.jpeg)\n\n![an overhead view of water filter pitchers and dispensers on a wooden surface](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/MfmppV7mfulbEA2jk32zr5z-rcY=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/sea-water-filter-pitchers-group-image-3-madeline-muzzi-56cc3f7f5bd24d9d871a88ed82176875.jpeg)\n\nPitchers were faster pourers, but dispensers could be used one-handed.\n\nSerious Eats\n\nIf you’re in a hurry, pitchers are the way to go. During the flow rate test, all of the pitcher models poured four cups of water much more quickly than the dispensers. Filter dispensers, on the other hand, provided an easier glass-filling experience. Pouring water from a pitcher is a two-handed process—one to hold the pitcher, one to stabilize the glass. Dispensers don’t need to be held (they’re designed to rest on refrigerator shelves). Except for the [Waterdrop Slim Water Filter Dispenser](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Waterdrop-Dispenser-200-Gallon-Long-Life-Lifetime\/dp\/B09Q8HDVRZ?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876), all of the dispensers included tabs that could lock into place. This made it possible to fill a glass of water quickly with one hand.\n\n## The Criteria: What to Look for in a Water Filter Pitcher or Dispenser\n![a hand pressing the tab on the Pur water dispenser releasing water into the sink](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/pRJqSgSIRZj39d76xrSfnHCqMk4=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/winners-graphic-resized-water-filter-pitchers-Pur-30-cup-madeline-muzzi-6-20f2727e1a214205a96a10179a24cbed.jpg)\n\n![a hand pressing the tab on the Pur water dispenser releasing water into the sink](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/pRJqSgSIRZj39d76xrSfnHCqMk4=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/winners-graphic-resized-water-filter-pitchers-Pur-30-cup-madeline-muzzi-6-20f2727e1a214205a96a10179a24cbed.jpg)\n\nSerious Eats\n\nThe best water filtration devices are made from durable materials and use independently certified filters. Consider your household hydration needs and look for a pitcher that holds enough water to last a few days. For easy access, choose a model that can be refilled without removing the lid. I also preferred pitchers and dispensers that were quick to pour from.\n\n## Our Favorite Water Filter Pitchers and Dispensers\n## The Best Water Filter Pitcher\n[LifeStraw Home Water Filter Pitcher](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B089QWCT6R?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876)\n\n[![Amazon Lifestraw Water Filter Pitcher ](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/vhQvpQnNkb4PQ8ZOSuVoNV4Tmqo=\/fit-in\/1500x1000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/lifestraw-water-filter-pitcher-ddb33410d3404a4f8e13bb8e4d39de46.jpg) ![Amazon Lifestraw Water Filter Pitcher ](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/vhQvpQnNkb4PQ8ZOSuVoNV4Tmqo=\/fit-in\/1500x1000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/lifestraw-water-filter-pitcher-ddb33410d3404a4f8e13bb8e4d39de46.jpg)](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B089QWCT6R?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876)\n\nCredit: Amazon\n\n[\\$50 at Amazon](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B089QWCT6R?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876)   [\\$65 at Target](https:\/\/www.target.com\/p\/lifestraw-home-water-filter-pitcher-7-cup-silicone-base-glass-white\/-\/A-93996878)   [\\$65 at Crate & Barrel](https:\/\/www.crateandbarrel.com\/lifestraw-home-7-cup-white-glass-water-filter-pitcher\/s107122)\n\n**What we liked:** The LifeStraw carbon filter boasts a variety of independent certifications from NSF, as well as WQA and ANSI-accredited laboratories. It’s proven to remove lead, mercury, and chlorine to improve water safety and flavor. The LifeStraw is equipped with two filters—a carbon filter and a membrane microfilter—giving it the power to remove bacteria as well as dissolved solids. This pitcher has a tight-fitting lid and pours water smoothly. It can be refilled through a flap without removing the top. This elegant pitcher doubles as a lovely way to present water on the table. It’s available in several colors and materials, including a glass model.\n\n**What we didn’t like:** This tall pitcher may be difficult to fit on smaller refrigerator shelves. The dark plastic body sustained a few visible scratches during testing.\n\n- ![the lifestraw water filter pitchers on a marble countertop](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/tsSjqgS_-dKz7ONr-xCmzY01Y1s=\/fit-in\/1500x1000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/sea-water-filter-pitchers-lifestraw-home-2-madeline-muzzi-e9677e6a7bd74b90bf85245c8424de6e.jpeg)\n  \n  ![the lifestraw water filter pitchers on a marble countertop](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/tsSjqgS_-dKz7ONr-xCmzY01Y1s=\/fit-in\/1500x1000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/sea-water-filter-pitchers-lifestraw-home-2-madeline-muzzi-e9677e6a7bd74b90bf85245c8424de6e.jpeg)\n  Credit: Serious Eats\n- ![filling the lifestraw pitcher]()\n  \n  ![filling the lifestraw pitcher](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/g2w73cLEF5dWNAEwXmjJHJuejVw=\/fit-in\/1500x1000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/sea-water-filter-pitchers-lifestraw-home-3-madeline-muzzi-6667f095605d44fb8750e7a011bdcda6.jpeg)\n  Credit: Serious Eats\n- ![pouring water out of the lifestraw pitcher]()\n  \n  ![pouring water out of the lifestraw pitcher](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/AHPfRCgYTNGjzQGvi2vcOFqy500=\/fit-in\/1500x1000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/sea-water-filter-pitchers-lifestraw-home-1-madeline-muzzi-151e9087fcdf421c853bfb3f23fd4c10.jpeg)\n  Credit: Serious Eats\n\n- ![the lifestraw water filter pitchers on a marble countertop](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/6HJ1J_wMD_kC4N-hNgkGN7StOMY=\/fit-in\/200x1000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/sea-water-filter-pitchers-lifestraw-home-2-madeline-muzzi-e9677e6a7bd74b90bf85245c8424de6e.jpeg)\n  \n  ![the lifestraw water filter pitchers on a marble countertop](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/6HJ1J_wMD_kC4N-hNgkGN7StOMY=\/fit-in\/200x1000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/sea-water-filter-pitchers-lifestraw-home-2-madeline-muzzi-e9677e6a7bd74b90bf85245c8424de6e.jpeg)\n- ![filling the lifestraw pitcher](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/ZyL-2rVGmanpEOoxLfuTtcsaYAY=\/fit-in\/200x1000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/sea-water-filter-pitchers-lifestraw-home-3-madeline-muzzi-6667f095605d44fb8750e7a011bdcda6.jpeg)\n  \n  ![filling the lifestraw pitcher](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/ZyL-2rVGmanpEOoxLfuTtcsaYAY=\/fit-in\/200x1000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/sea-water-filter-pitchers-lifestraw-home-3-madeline-muzzi-6667f095605d44fb8750e7a011bdcda6.jpeg)\n- ![pouring water out of the lifestraw pitcher](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/IYVVL-6WlTxsNS6Nw8Y3Dbctgug=\/fit-in\/200x1000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/sea-water-filter-pitchers-lifestraw-home-1-madeline-muzzi-151e9087fcdf421c853bfb3f23fd4c10.jpeg)\n  \n  ![pouring water out of the lifestraw pitcher](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/IYVVL-6WlTxsNS6Nw8Y3Dbctgug=\/fit-in\/200x1000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/sea-water-filter-pitchers-lifestraw-home-1-madeline-muzzi-151e9087fcdf421c853bfb3f23fd4c10.jpeg)\n### Key Specs\n- **Capacity:** 7 cups\n- **Dimensions:** 6\\.44 x 14.44 x 9.44 inches\n- **Replacement filter cost:** \\$14\n- **Filter capacity:** 40 gallons\n- **Certifications:** Meets US EPA & NSF P231 drinking water standards for the removal of bacteria and parasites\n\n## The Best Splurge Water Filter Pitcher\n[Larq PureVis Water Filter Pitcher](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/LARQ-Pitcher-PureVis-Advanced-Filter\/dp\/B00CWY0CY6?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876)\n\n[![Amazon LARQ Pitcher](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/q23fFgxXz7Jbu82CaWkuMQOch0U=\/fit-in\/1500x1000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/larq-pitcher-03890058c0bc4d21a9690f36820c38ea.jpg) ![Amazon LARQ Pitcher](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/q23fFgxXz7Jbu82CaWkuMQOch0U=\/fit-in\/1500x1000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/larq-pitcher-03890058c0bc4d21a9690f36820c38ea.jpg)](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/LARQ-Pitcher-PureVis-Advanced-Filter\/dp\/B00CWY0CY6?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876)\n\nCredit: Amazon\n\n[\\$168 at Amazon](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/LARQ-Pitcher-PureVis-Advanced-Filter\/dp\/B00CWY0CY6?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876)   [\\$168 at Williams Sonoma](https:\/\/www.williams-sonoma.com\/products\/larq-pitcher)\n\n[\\$168 \\$139 at Livelarq.com](https:\/\/www.livelarq.com\/shop\/larq-pitcher-purevis)\n\n**What we liked:** The LARQ pitcher’s straight sides and rounded edges stack neatly against other items in the fridge. This model is designed with an open handle that is easy to grab and hold for transportation or pouring. The plastic body resisted scratching during testing and feels unlikely to chip.\n\n**What we didn’t like:** With a subscription price of \\$26 (\\$33 without a subscription), these were the most expensive replacement filters I tested.\n\n- ![larq water pitcher on marble countertop](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/t94n0LCcBlc16naDcyqydbrlgqI=\/fit-in\/1500x3000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/resized-Larq-water-filter-pitcher-madeline-muzzi-843194f6c6bd4c249c9dc8a0c0a1e45f.jpg)\n  \n  ![larq water pitcher on marble countertop](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/t94n0LCcBlc16naDcyqydbrlgqI=\/fit-in\/1500x3000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/resized-Larq-water-filter-pitcher-madeline-muzzi-843194f6c6bd4c249c9dc8a0c0a1e45f.jpg)\n  Credit: Serious Eats\n- ![filling the larq pitcher]()\n  \n  ![filling the larq pitcher](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/7g0lNmMYJ2Pj9wLkeV9yYpBCn6A=\/fit-in\/1500x3000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/larq-water-filter-pitcher-madeline-muzzi-02-cc5d7b4070284b3dae25340effa46ab6.jpg)\n  Credit: Serious Eats\n- ![pouring water out of the larq pitcher]()\n  \n  ![pouring water out of the larq pitcher](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/LCBRitqYKjOzvj4i-5wNjPV2Cfo=\/fit-in\/1500x3000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/larq-water-filter-pitcher-madeline-muzzi-03-c65424450d8a4a3fa01615967611f255.jpg)\n  Credit: Serious Eats\n\n- ![larq water pitcher on marble countertop](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/d63LU0mYSW7xHc-okAvfLC25uS4=\/fit-in\/200x3000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/resized-Larq-water-filter-pitcher-madeline-muzzi-843194f6c6bd4c249c9dc8a0c0a1e45f.jpg)\n  \n  ![larq water pitcher on marble countertop](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/d63LU0mYSW7xHc-okAvfLC25uS4=\/fit-in\/200x3000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/resized-Larq-water-filter-pitcher-madeline-muzzi-843194f6c6bd4c249c9dc8a0c0a1e45f.jpg)\n- ![filling the larq pitcher](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/GO-JR7rc7ppoPAbyIw4XwpMdNvw=\/fit-in\/200x3000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/larq-water-filter-pitcher-madeline-muzzi-02-cc5d7b4070284b3dae25340effa46ab6.jpg)\n  \n  ![filling the larq pitcher](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/GO-JR7rc7ppoPAbyIw4XwpMdNvw=\/fit-in\/200x3000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/larq-water-filter-pitcher-madeline-muzzi-02-cc5d7b4070284b3dae25340effa46ab6.jpg)\n- ![pouring water out of the larq pitcher](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/B7wY8mh3BXY6qmyFGkV9HAoOULk=\/fit-in\/200x3000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/larq-water-filter-pitcher-madeline-muzzi-03-c65424450d8a4a3fa01615967611f255.jpg)\n  \n  ![pouring water out of the larq pitcher](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/B7wY8mh3BXY6qmyFGkV9HAoOULk=\/fit-in\/200x3000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/larq-water-filter-pitcher-madeline-muzzi-03-c65424450d8a4a3fa01615967611f255.jpg)\n### Key Specs\n- **Capacity:** 8 cups\n- **Dimensions:** 9 x 5.5 x 10 inches\n- **Replacement filter cost** \\$26 with a subscription, \\$33 standard\n- **Filter capacity:** 60 gallons\n- **Certifications:** Certified for the improvement of taste and odor under NSF\/ANSI standards 42, 53, and 401\n\n## The Best Water Filter Dispenser\n[Brita XL Water Filter Dispenser](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Brita-UltraMax-Filtered-Water-Dispenser\/dp\/B09WBX1WKC?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876)\n\n[![Amazon Brita XL Water Filter Dispenser]() ![Amazon Brita XL Water Filter Dispenser](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/hgsfCHw2ieiaoDWGvtXfShghPwQ=\/fit-in\/1500x1000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/Brita-XL-Water-Filter-Dispenser-af7a59efcada4b14ab157cf197969e2c.jpg)](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Brita-UltraMax-Filtered-Water-Dispenser\/dp\/B09WBX1WKC?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876)\n\nCredit: Amazon\n\n[\\$38 at Amazon](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Brita-UltraMax-Filtered-Water-Dispenser\/dp\/B09WBX1WKC?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876)   [\\$50 at Target](https:\/\/www.target.com\/p\/brita-extra-large-27-cup-ultramax-filtered-water-dispenser-with-filter-jet-black\/-\/A-52677307)   [\\$50 at Home Depot](https:\/\/www.homedepot.com\/p\/Brita-UltraMax-27-Cup-Extra-Large-Filtered-Water-Dispenser-with-Elite-Filter-BPA-Free-6025836261\/319727636?slpfid=3)\n\n**What we liked:** The Brita UltraMax holds up to 27 cups of water—enough to hydrate the whole family. Built-in handles and a hinged top make refilling easier. This dispenser’s narrow design and smooth, straight sides streamline storage and simplify cleanup. The dispenser tap was easy to use and can click into place for hands-free dispensing. I did not observe any unwelcoming dripping from the spigot during testing.\n\n**What we didn’t like:** The dispenser nozzle is a little short—the entire device needs to be very close to the edge of a shelf to accommodate a glass. The plastic body is slightly brittle and may chip over time.\n\n- ![brita dispenser on marble surface]()\n  \n  ![brita dispenser on marble surface](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/E9N58QKJsfoZ6ZMWB82lNzpqLok=\/fit-in\/1500x3000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/resized-water-filter-pitchers-Brita-UltraMax-Large-Water-Dispenser-madeline-muzzi-1-3235d4a423ee45a7a86fa042d65408e3.jpg)\n  Credit: Serious Eats\n- ![filling the brita dispenser]()\n  \n  ![filling the brita dispenser](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/4LvMP_WpSF5q_cCXF6nDi10xzQU=\/fit-in\/1500x3000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/water-filter-pitchers-Brita-UltraMax-Large-Water-Dispenser-madeline-muzzi-3-0ea6fef0c9e34cc584bc5cfe443df5b3.jpg)\n  Credit: Serious Eats\n- ![a water dispenser next to a few bottles of wine in the fridge]()\n  \n  ![a water dispenser next to a few bottles of wine in the fridge](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/wf3593Lbrlm04Ha3bFYLB7GJb8E=\/fit-in\/1500x1000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/sea-water-filter-pitchers-brita-ultramax-large-dispenser-5-madeline-muzzi-5e82eb2e39744f539c5a959fa10ce63d.jpeg)\n  Credit: Serious Eats\n\n- ![brita dispenser on marble surface]()\n  \n  ![brita dispenser on marble surface](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/k20O0dTNhq027wIadQH9hKsT_QE=\/fit-in\/200x3000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/resized-water-filter-pitchers-Brita-UltraMax-Large-Water-Dispenser-madeline-muzzi-1-3235d4a423ee45a7a86fa042d65408e3.jpg)\n- ![filling the brita dispenser]()\n  \n  ![filling the brita dispenser](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/louK8PUC8KqHz9iRDMU5TGf90e4=\/fit-in\/200x3000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/water-filter-pitchers-Brita-UltraMax-Large-Water-Dispenser-madeline-muzzi-3-0ea6fef0c9e34cc584bc5cfe443df5b3.jpg)\n- ![a water dispenser next to a few bottles of wine in the fridge]()\n  \n  ![a water dispenser next to a few bottles of wine in the fridge](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/bMhrUnR2-9iU9T0j_l5WIlDgeGM=\/fit-in\/200x1000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/sea-water-filter-pitchers-brita-ultramax-large-dispenser-5-madeline-muzzi-5e82eb2e39744f539c5a959fa10ce63d.jpeg)\n### Key Specs\n- **Capacity:** 27 cups\n- **Dimensions:** 14\\.37 x 5.67 x 10.47 inches\n- **Replacement filter cost** \\$15\n- **Filter capacity:** 40 gallons\n- **Certifications:** Certified for the improvement of taste and odor under NSF\/ANSI Standard 42\n\n## The Best Extra-Large Water Filter Dispenser\n[Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B07CRSK5KX?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876)\n\n[![Amazon Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser]() ![Amazon Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.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=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876)\n\nCredit: Amazon\n\n[\\$43 \\$27 at Amazon](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B07CRSK5KX?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876)\n\n[\\$27 at Target](https:\/\/www.target.com\/p\/pur-ultimate-30-cup-dispenser-with-lead-reduction\/-\/A-53152142)   [\\$45 at Home Depot](https:\/\/www.homedepot.com\/p\/Plus-30-Cup-Water-Filter-Pitcher-Dispenser-DS1811Z\/320032923)\n\n**What we liked:** The PUR PLUS dispenser delivers maximum capacity without taking up additional fridge space. Its slim body fits neatly onto shelves, leaving plenty of room for [storage containers](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/best-food-storage-containers-6750861) or other items to line up next to its straight sides. This was one of the only dishwasher-safe models—an easy solution for an occasional deep clean. The PUR PLUS offers affordable filter replacements with NFS certifications.\n\n**What we didn’t like:** This is one of the only models that requires completely removing the lid to refill the dispenser, which was slightly annoying but not a dealbreaker.\n\n- ![Pur 30-cup water dispenser on a marble countertop]()\n  \n  ![Pur 30-cup water dispenser on a marble countertop](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/FBZdPIemGu9KCHDxhhiavjoA_P8=\/fit-in\/1500x3000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/reszied-water-filter-pitchers-Pur-30-cup-madeline-muzzi-1-5bfa88bdaf9e433b818e5defb697d857.jpg)\n  Credit: Serious Eats\n- ![a person dispensing water from the Pur dispenser]()\n  \n  ![a person dispensing water from the Pur dispenser](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/pIxeWOb3B6EYHptzHNqVvpUqxE8=\/fit-in\/1500x3000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/water-filter-pitchers-Pur-30-cup-madeline-muzzi-6-48eeb8bf92e24e458f5b9eeb71258292.jpg)\n  Credit: Serious Eats\n- ![the pur dispenser next to the sink]()\n  \n  ![the pur dispenser next to the sink](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/kfI81npmNWy3u7c8gD8j2IZIMCs=\/fit-in\/1500x3000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/water-filter-pitchers-Pur-30-cup-madeline-muzzi-3-9f273959f84342989381e188697d9002.jpg)\n  Credit: Serious Eats\n\n- ![Pur 30-cup water dispenser on a marble countertop]()\n  \n  ![Pur 30-cup water dispenser on a marble countertop](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/59OH0sokPGp36Xsl0fr-GzZ8m7c=\/fit-in\/200x3000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/reszied-water-filter-pitchers-Pur-30-cup-madeline-muzzi-1-5bfa88bdaf9e433b818e5defb697d857.jpg)\n- ![a person dispensing water from the Pur dispenser]()\n  \n  ![a person dispensing water from the Pur dispenser](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/dLIoK_7DBwRIJb8RVHfmaJM7IHw=\/fit-in\/200x3000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/water-filter-pitchers-Pur-30-cup-madeline-muzzi-6-48eeb8bf92e24e458f5b9eeb71258292.jpg)\n- ![the pur dispenser next to the sink]()\n  \n  ![the pur dispenser next to the sink](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/BWHxaSGac1jt9w1A37k1LkQI43o=\/fit-in\/200x3000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/water-filter-pitchers-Pur-30-cup-madeline-muzzi-3-9f273959f84342989381e188697d9002.jpg)\n### Key Specs\n- **Capacity:** 30 cups\n- **Dimensions:** 15\\.3 x 5.3 x 10.1 inches\n- **Replacement filter cost** \\$25 for 3\n- **Filter capacity:** 40 gallons\n- **Certifications:** NSF certified to reduce microplastics found in tap and bottled water.\n## The Competition\n- [Brita Denali Water Pitcher With Elite Filter](https:\/\/www.brita.com\/products\/denali-pitcher-elite\/): This was a solid pitcher with several certifications and space-saving straight sides. However, this model lost points because the lightweight plastic scratched easily.\n- [Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher With Elite Filter](https:\/\/www.walmart.com\/ip\/Brita-Large-10-Cup-Black-Tahoe-Water-Filter-Pitcher-with-1-Brita-Elite-Filter-Made-Without-BPA\/1683904748?clickid=QKo3NSz%3ACxyNUjNVVhy4-XQEUkH3dEzxW3wFR80&irgwc=1&sourceid=imp_QKo3NSz%3ACxyNUjNVVhy4-XQEUkH3dEzxW3wFR80&veh=aff&wmlspartner=imp_392844&affiliates_ad_id=565706&campaign_id=9383&sharedid=65e74b309af1fd0b871b8f9c): This pitcher is made from brittle plastic and breaks easily. It arrived chipped and sustained additional scratches during the testing process.\n- [ZeroWater 10-Cup Ready-Pour 5-Stage Water Filter Pitcher](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/ZeroWater-Pitcher-Quality-BPA-Free-Certified\/dp\/B0073PZ6O0?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876): This pitcher performed well in the taste test, but its ridged design wasted space and complicated cleanup.\n- [Waterdrop 200-Gallon Long-Life Lucid 10-Cup Water Filter Pitcher](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Waterdrop-200-Gallon-Long-Life-Replacement-Filtration\/dp\/B09JGB2ZYL?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876): I liked this model’s durable, scratch-resistant material. A slightly splashy pour and expensive filters kept it from claiming a top spot.\n- [AmazonBasics 10-Cup Water](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Amazon-Basics-Pitcher-Included-Compatible\/dp\/B07YT18P21?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876). This lightweight, brittle pitcher imparted a faint plasticky taste to filtered water.\n- [Waterdrop Slim Water Filter Dispenser](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Waterdrop-Dispenser-200-Gallon-Long-Life-Lifetime\/dp\/B09Q8HDVRZ?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) A solid device with a well-designed angled basin that dispenses every last drop of water, this model lost points because the plastic dispensing nozzle felt cheap and brittle.\n- [ZeroWater 22-Cup Water Filter Dispenser](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/ZeroWater-Ready-Read-5-Stage-Dispenser-Certified\/dp\/B0C1NTYF4Q?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876). During testing, water leaked around the edge of the filter and didn't pass through it.\n- [Pur 10-Cup Pitcher](https:\/\/www.pur.com\/shop\/pitchers\/pur-10-cup-pitcher-walmart\/): This model pours and filters nicely, but its bulbous design hogs space in the refrigerator compared to straight-sided alternatives.\n## FAQs\n### Are water filter pitchers the same as water purifiers?\nA water filter pitcher is a type of water purifier. That said the term \"filter\" is easier to quantify and regulate than \"purify.\" Water can be cleaned by passing through physical filters or by other means, such as UV light.\n\n### How does a water filter pitcher work?\nWater filter pitchers use gravity to pass tap water through a carbon filtration system that removes certain impurities. They’re typically built with a reservoir at the top, a filter, and a basin. Unfiltered water is poured into the reservoir, gravity pulls it through the filter, and it’s stored in the pitcher basin until it’s consumed.\n\n### How can I find out what is in my tap water?\nThe EPA requires that local water suppliers publish a [Consumer Confidence Report](https:\/\/ordspub.epa.gov\/ords\/safewater\/f?p=136:102::::::) every year. Check your local report to learn about the minerals and contaminants found in public drinking water at treatment facilities. Water can sometimes pick up impurities after it leaves a facility if it passes through damaged or lead pipes. You can test your home tap with a [water quality kit](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B076DRBCBX\/?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) to determine exactly what’s in your H2O.\n\n### Which water filter pitcher removes the most contaminants like PFAS?\nA report from the [Minnesota Department of Health](https:\/\/www.health.state.mn.us\/communities\/environment\/hazardous\/topics\/pfashometreat.html#:~:text=If%20you%20have%20concerns%20about,regular%20maintenance%20to%20work%20properly.) shows that carbon filters, like those used in gravity-powered pitchers, can effectively reduce PFAs when used properly. Changing your filter frequently will ensure its efficacy. Compared to carbon filters, pressurized [reverse osmosis filters](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B00CHYLY9I?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) remove a greater percentage of contaminants.\n\n### Do water pitchers or dispensers filter out bacteria?\nThe majority of home water filter pitchers use activated carbon filters to remove contaminants. These filters remove dissolved solids and chlorine, but they have not been proven to remove bacteria or germs. Some evidence suggests that eliminating chlorine without removing bacteria creates an environment where the bacteria can breed easily.\n\n### What's the best glass water filter pitcher?\nWe didn't test glass water filters in this test. Because glass is breakable, they're not ideal for daily, frequent use. That said, some of our favorite filter pitchers, like the [LARQ PureVis,](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/LARQ-Pitcher-PureVis-Advanced-Filter\/dp\/B00CWY0CY6?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) are made from BPA-free plastic.\n\n### What's the best faucet water filter?\nWhen we tested faucet-mounted water filters, we chose two winners: the [Brita Faucet Mount Water Filtration System](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Brita-Filtration-Reminder-Reduces-Standard\/dp\/B004INTGKK?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) and the Culligan FM-25 Faucet-Mount Advanced Water Filtration System. You can read our [full review here](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/the-best-faucet-water-filters-7569426).\n\n## Why We’re the Experts\n- [Madeline Muzzi](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/madeline-muzzi-5193669) is a writer, editor, and video producer. She has written many reviews for Serious Eats, including [wine decanters](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/best-wine-decanters-6889328), [mini mortar and pestles](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/best-mini-mortar-and-pestles-7167627), and [countertop ice makers](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/best-ice-makers-6833617).\n- For this review, Madeline tested 12 water filter pitchers and dispensers to find ones that were easy to use and third-party certified.\n\n[I Tested 22 Sets of Drinking Glasses—7 Made Even Water Look Good](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/best-drinking-glasses-7368442)\n\nArticle Sources\n\nSerious Eats uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our [editorial process](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/about-us-5120006#toc-editorial-guidelines) to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.\n\n1. [https:\/\/www.nyc.gov\/assets\/dep\/downloads\/pdf\/water\/drinking-water\/drinking-water-supply-quality-report\/2023-drinking-water-supply-quality-report.pdf](https:\/\/www.google.com\/url?q=https:\/\/www.nyc.gov\/assets\/dep\/downloads\/pdf\/water\/drinking-water\/drinking-water-supply-quality-report\/2023-drinking-water-supply-quality-report.pdf&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1717525928458817&usg=AOvVaw3_08sxHcVCoujUPMeB9CVh)\n\nExplore more:\n\n- [Equipment](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/equipment-5117081)\n- [Basic Kitchen Equipment](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/kitchen-basics-5118045)\n\n#### More Serious Eats Recipes\n[![a water faucet filter filtering water]() ![a water faucet filter filtering water](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/lDA2O32uwSEbIIxytgT9F-EcMFc=\/375x250\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/sea-product-dupont-premier-faucet-mount-abigail-clarkin-07-472ab424bbbf4896a2fc5d74588ac27e.jpeg) We Tested Faucet Water Filters and Found 2 for Pure-Tasting Water](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/the-best-faucet-water-filters-7569426)\n\n[![bowl scraper lineup on a marble countertop]() ![bowl scraper lineup on a marble countertop](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/AxFOdUfnXN4w6ig0BH3pl0UdvzE=\/375x250\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/sea-group-bowl-scraper-irvin-lin-photo-1-2014.jpg-70d7c7bcb0744280aee570590cc19f87.jpg) We Tested 10 Bowl Scrapers to Find the Best Ones](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/best-bowl-scrapers-6746839)\n\n[![mops leaning against a white tile wall ]() ![mops leaning against a white tile wall ](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/AZpx8cpLww48iUNFHcHOkSMA4DM=\/375x250\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/Moplineup-bdeae02680014a02852c34461a774b5d.jpg) To Find the Best Mops for Cleaning Up Kitchen Messes, I Soaked, Wrung, and Scrubbed for Days](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/best-mops-7693636)\n\n[![four paper towels with post it notes]() ![four paper towels with post it notes](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/DV8x-Rf36WhKhJf5LCfLABApxQE=\/375x250\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/sea-paper-towels-group-zola-gregory-04-a4d53d5730114de4b57250d13560a75c.jpeg) To Find the Best Paper Towels, I Cleaned Countertops, Dried Wine Glasses, and Scrubbed Stuck-On Messes](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/best-paper-towels-11868180)\n\n[![water bottles laying on a green surface]() ![water bottles laying on a green surface](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/Nj4CWKkd8foQ8UMnkNK7iJwhBuY=\/375x250\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/WaterBottleLead3-374d0675cefc47cca5d9b56e0c677493.jpg) Leakproof and Lovely: We Tested 12 Water Bottles to Find the Best Ones for Staying Hydrated](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/best-water-bottles-8557037)\n\n[![Seven stainless steel water bottles on a grey surface]() ![Seven stainless steel water bottles on a grey surface](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/zuECgWZRPcxU5y0jmdICg5vTaPQ=\/375x250\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/waterbottle_lineup_reshoot_1-630ca81c320c48d684f269d82783acb2.jpeg) I Tested 9 Stainless Steel Water Bottles to Find the Best Ones for Everyday Sipping](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/best-stainless-steel-water-bottles-5536831)\n\n[![a variety of kitchen brooms leaning against a wall]() ![a variety of kitchen brooms leaning against a wall](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/NrhdRC9AGuxcZ7CIZhjNkmnYRic=\/375x250\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/kitchen-brooms-grace-kelly-01-cf988a7bde72461ca2f0d06f53a9d640.jpg) I Tested 11 Brooms to Find the Best Ones for Cleaning Up Kitchen Messes](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/best-brooms-11686049)\n\n[![our lineup of offset turners on a marble countertop]() ![our lineup of offset turners on a marble countertop](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/oNgPIVIdyjwL_Pr2JSvXuBOEY_M=\/375x250\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/OffsetTurnersEricKing-3c27385cba694c5f9641c163a8100dd9.jpg) To Find the Best Offset Turners, I Smashed Loads of Burgers and Flipped Pancakes](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/best-offset-turners-6741120)\n\n[![A stack of dishwashing sponges next to a kitchen sink.]() ![A stack of dishwashing sponges next to a kitchen sink.](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/5hGUMiEtv8klMmkI5uByHzEJxUM=\/375x250\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/sea-dishwashing-sponges-lead-image-rochelle-bilow-00cc9f154b5c4c9f91053c093a0c93b1.jpeg) These 7 Winning Dishwashing Sponges Will Make Cleanup (Kinda?) 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We also like the [Brita UltraMax Large Water Dispenser](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Brita-UltraMax-Filtered-Water-Dispenser\/dp\/B09WBX1WKC?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) that holds up to 27 cups of water.\n\nIt might surprise non-residents to learn that New York City, a place with an officially appointed rat czar, is blessed with pristine drinking water. It flows in from the Catskills\/Delaware system and arrives with a neutral taste and a silky smooth texture—my local consumer confidence report boasts that it’s “the Champagne of tap water.1” Unfortunately, the quality of the water source isn’t the only factor that influences what ends up in your glass. Water has to travel through pipes and may be stored in reservoirs before it reaches your home. Enter the water filter pitcher: an easy way to make sure each cup of water you sip is palatable.\n\nIf you have a full household that drinks a lot of water, you might prefer a filtered dispenser model with a large capacity. Pitchers hold less water but are better suited for placing on the table during meals. I tested 12 at-home water filter pitchers and dispensers to find ones that poured water smoothly.\n\n## The Tests\nAn unbiased taste test of water helped us determine which pitcher filters were best.\n\nSerious Eats\n\n- **Flow Rate Test:** I calculated the flow rate of each pitcher and dispenser by timing how long it took to pour out four cups of water.\n- **Fridge Fit Test:** I placed each pitcher\/dispenser in the fridge, noting how difficult they were to transport and how much storage space they required.\n- **Filtration Blind Taste Test:** I conducted a blind taste test to assess the impact of filtration on water flavor. With the help of a friend, I compared the taste profile of the filtered water from each pitcher\/dispenser to tap water and bottled water, noting any differences.\n- **Usability and Cleaning Tests:** I used each device to pour one cup of water into two [glasses](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/best-drinking-glasses-7368442), noting any splashes or difficulties. After testing, I cleaned each device according to the manufacturer's instructions, checking for any chips or scratches.\n## What We Learned\n### Look for Certifications\nLook for pitchers with filters that have been third-party certified for quality and purity.\n\nSerious Eats\n\nIf you’re concerned about water quality, checking your local consumer water supply report is a good place to start. The Environmental Protection Agency requires that water suppliers publish an annual [Consumer Confidence Report.](https:\/\/ordspub.epa.gov\/ords\/safewater\/f?p=136:102::::::) You can also use a home kit to test your tap water for lead or other contaminants; many cities provide these kits for assessing water quality for free.\n\nThere are two main reasons to filter your tap water: to remove contaminants or to improve the taste (which [some coffee aficionados](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/make-better-pourover-coffee-how-pourover-works-temperature-timing) will tell you makes a real difference when brewing your morning cuppa). Understanding your goal will help you make the best decision when purchasing a water filtration system. If you’re concerned about specific contaminants, you’ll need a filter certified to remove them. You have more options if you’re simply hoping to improve the taste.\n\nThe LifeStraw pitcher meets the National Sanitation Foundation standards for filtering PFOA and PFOS.\n\nSerious Eats\n\nNot all filters are the same, though, and some may capture certain contaminants better than others. If you’re concerned about a specific element, such as lead, look for a pitcher that has been independently tested and certified for lead removal by a trusted agency. The New York State Department of Health recommends the [NSF](http:\/\/www.nsf.org\/consumer-resources\/health-and-safety-tips\/water-quality-treatment-tips\/), [UL](https:\/\/ul.com\/code-authorities\/environmental-and-public-health\/drinking-water\/), and [Water Quality Association](https:\/\/wqa.org\/) as trusted certifying bodies.\n\n### How do water filters work?\nAll of the pitchers and dispensers filter water by passing it from a reservoir at the top of the device through a filter and into a basin. (These are called gravity models.) This pitcher style typically uses activated carbon (charcoal) filters that attract chemicals. Carbon filters effectively remove certain elements, such as chlorine, but they cannot remove bacteria. Chlorine, which is commonly added to tap water to kill germs, is often the culprit behind unpleasant flavors. Activated charcoal filters can remove this chemical and help improve the water’s taste. Gravity filters are generally less powerful than pressurized reverse osmosis systems (which are installed under the sink).\n\n### Dispensers and Pitchers Should Be Easy to Refill\nThe best water filter pitchers can be refilled without removing their lids.\n\nSerious Eats\n\nWater filter pitchers and dispensers see a decent amount of action. They need to be filled, refilled, plopped in the fridge, and repeatedly handled. The right design elements make these otherwise tedious tasks easier. My favorite pitchers and dispensers, namely the [Brita UltraMax](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Brita-UltraMax-Filtered-Water-Dispenser\/dp\/B09WBX1WKC?th=1&tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) and [LifeStraw](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/LifeStraw-Home-Water-Filter-Pitcher\/dp\/B0BBSL6P2P?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876), can be filled from the sink without removing the lid; instead, they have a slide top that stays open for hands-free filling. Other models, including the [LARQ 8-Cup Water Filter Pitcher](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/LARQ-Filtered-Drinking-Chlorine-Standards\/dp\/B0CPFSST74?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) and the [Waterdrop Lucid 10-Cup](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Waterdrop-200-Gallon-Long-Life-Replacement-Filtration\/dp\/B09JGB2ZYL?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876), featured trapdoor-style portals that open under the weight of running water. Although they were easy to use, they required running water over the exterior of the pitcher, which can be a little splashy and may not be sanitary. The [PUR PLUS 30-Cup Water Filter Dispenser](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/PUR-Dispenser-Capacity-Filtration-Dishwasher\/dp\/B0C7FL37MG?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) and [AmazonBasics 10-Cup Water Pitcher](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Amazon-Basics-Pitcher-Included-Compatible\/dp\/B07YT18P21?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) require you to remove the entire lid each time you refill.\n\nMaterial quality also affects the refilling process. Brittle plastic models like the [Brita Denali Water Pitcher With Elite Filter](https:\/\/www.brita.com\/products\/denali-pitcher-elite\/) and the [Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher With Elite Filter](https:\/\/www.walmart.com\/ip\/Brita-Large-10-Cup-Black-Tahoe-Water-Filter-Pitcher-with-1-Brita-Elite-Filter-Made-Without-BPA\/1683904748) chipped and scratched easily when handled.\n\n### Straight Sides Made Storage Easy\nWater filter dispensers with straight sides and right angles were easiest to store.\n\nSerious Eats\n\nThe majority of pitchers and dispensers that I tested featured straight walls that fit nicely on a refrigerator shelf next to other items. The [Pur 10-Cup Pitcher](https:\/\/www.pur.com\/shop\/pitchers\/pur-10-cup-pitcher-walmart\/) was a notable exception—this large, cylindrical pitcher took up more than its fair share of fridge space. The [ZeroWater 10-Cup Ready-Pour 5-Stage Water Filter Pitcher](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/ZeroWater-Pitcher-Quality-BPA-Free-Certified\/dp\/B0073PZ6O0?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) also presented some storage challenges. Although it’s narrow, its ridges and overhangs increased its overall footprint without increasing capacity. In general, the dispenser models made good use of space—these slim, rectangular vessels use tall straight walls to offer maximum capacity, and it’s easy to stack products next to them. Admittedly, the Lifestraw, one of my favorites, is cylindrical. Even though it can’t tessellate neatly with cartons or containers, it has a small base and tall walls that maximize its storage capacity without hogging the shelf.\n\n### Water Dispensers vs. Water Filter Pitchers\nPitchers were faster pourers, but dispensers could be used one-handed.\n\nSerious Eats\n\nIf you’re in a hurry, pitchers are the way to go. During the flow rate test, all of the pitcher models poured four cups of water much more quickly than the dispensers. Filter dispensers, on the other hand, provided an easier glass-filling experience. Pouring water from a pitcher is a two-handed process—one to hold the pitcher, one to stabilize the glass. Dispensers don’t need to be held (they’re designed to rest on refrigerator shelves). Except for the [Waterdrop Slim Water Filter Dispenser](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Waterdrop-Dispenser-200-Gallon-Long-Life-Lifetime\/dp\/B09Q8HDVRZ?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876), all of the dispensers included tabs that could lock into place. This made it possible to fill a glass of water quickly with one hand.\n\n## The Criteria: What to Look for in a Water Filter Pitcher or Dispenser\nSerious Eats\n\nThe best water filtration devices are made from durable materials and use independently certified filters. Consider your household hydration needs and look for a pitcher that holds enough water to last a few days. For easy access, choose a model that can be refilled without removing the lid. I also preferred pitchers and dispensers that were quick to pour from.\n\n## Our Favorite Water Filter Pitchers and Dispensers\n**What we liked:** The LifeStraw carbon filter boasts a variety of independent certifications from NSF, as well as WQA and ANSI-accredited laboratories. It’s proven to remove lead, mercury, and chlorine to improve water safety and flavor. The LifeStraw is equipped with two filters—a carbon filter and a membrane microfilter—giving it the power to remove bacteria as well as dissolved solids. This pitcher has a tight-fitting lid and pours water smoothly. It can be refilled through a flap without removing the top. This elegant pitcher doubles as a lovely way to present water on the table. It’s available in several colors and materials, including a glass model.\n\n**What we didn’t like:** This tall pitcher may be difficult to fit on smaller refrigerator shelves. The dark plastic body sustained a few visible scratches during testing.\n\n- ![the lifestraw water filter pitchers on a marble countertop](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/tsSjqgS_-dKz7ONr-xCmzY01Y1s=\/fit-in\/1500x1000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/sea-water-filter-pitchers-lifestraw-home-2-madeline-muzzi-e9677e6a7bd74b90bf85245c8424de6e.jpeg)\n  Credit: Serious Eats\n- ![filling the lifestraw pitcher](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/g2w73cLEF5dWNAEwXmjJHJuejVw=\/fit-in\/1500x1000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/sea-water-filter-pitchers-lifestraw-home-3-madeline-muzzi-6667f095605d44fb8750e7a011bdcda6.jpeg)\n  Credit: Serious Eats\n- ![pouring water out of the lifestraw pitcher](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/AHPfRCgYTNGjzQGvi2vcOFqy500=\/fit-in\/1500x1000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/sea-water-filter-pitchers-lifestraw-home-1-madeline-muzzi-151e9087fcdf421c853bfb3f23fd4c10.jpeg)\n  Credit: Serious Eats\n\n- ![the lifestraw water filter pitchers on a marble countertop](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/6HJ1J_wMD_kC4N-hNgkGN7StOMY=\/fit-in\/200x1000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/sea-water-filter-pitchers-lifestraw-home-2-madeline-muzzi-e9677e6a7bd74b90bf85245c8424de6e.jpeg)\n- ![filling the lifestraw pitcher](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/ZyL-2rVGmanpEOoxLfuTtcsaYAY=\/fit-in\/200x1000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/sea-water-filter-pitchers-lifestraw-home-3-madeline-muzzi-6667f095605d44fb8750e7a011bdcda6.jpeg)\n- ![pouring water out of the lifestraw pitcher](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/IYVVL-6WlTxsNS6Nw8Y3Dbctgug=\/fit-in\/200x1000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/sea-water-filter-pitchers-lifestraw-home-1-madeline-muzzi-151e9087fcdf421c853bfb3f23fd4c10.jpeg)\n### Key Specs\n- **Capacity:** 7 cups\n- **Dimensions:** 6\\.44 x 14.44 x 9.44 inches\n- **Replacement filter cost:** \\$14\n- **Filter capacity:** 40 gallons\n- **Certifications:** Meets US EPA & NSF P231 drinking water standards for the removal of bacteria and parasites\n\n**What we liked:** The LARQ pitcher’s straight sides and rounded edges stack neatly against other items in the fridge. This model is designed with an open handle that is easy to grab and hold for transportation or pouring. The plastic body resisted scratching during testing and feels unlikely to chip.\n\n**What we didn’t like:** With a subscription price of \\$26 (\\$33 without a subscription), these were the most expensive replacement filters I tested.\n\n- ![larq water pitcher on marble countertop](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/t94n0LCcBlc16naDcyqydbrlgqI=\/fit-in\/1500x3000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/resized-Larq-water-filter-pitcher-madeline-muzzi-843194f6c6bd4c249c9dc8a0c0a1e45f.jpg)\n  Credit: Serious Eats\n- ![filling the larq pitcher](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/7g0lNmMYJ2Pj9wLkeV9yYpBCn6A=\/fit-in\/1500x3000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/larq-water-filter-pitcher-madeline-muzzi-02-cc5d7b4070284b3dae25340effa46ab6.jpg)\n  Credit: Serious Eats\n- ![pouring water out of the larq pitcher](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/LCBRitqYKjOzvj4i-5wNjPV2Cfo=\/fit-in\/1500x3000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/larq-water-filter-pitcher-madeline-muzzi-03-c65424450d8a4a3fa01615967611f255.jpg)\n  Credit: Serious Eats\n\n- ![larq water pitcher on marble countertop](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/d63LU0mYSW7xHc-okAvfLC25uS4=\/fit-in\/200x3000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/resized-Larq-water-filter-pitcher-madeline-muzzi-843194f6c6bd4c249c9dc8a0c0a1e45f.jpg)\n- ![filling the larq pitcher](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/GO-JR7rc7ppoPAbyIw4XwpMdNvw=\/fit-in\/200x3000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/larq-water-filter-pitcher-madeline-muzzi-02-cc5d7b4070284b3dae25340effa46ab6.jpg)\n- ![pouring water out of the larq pitcher](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/B7wY8mh3BXY6qmyFGkV9HAoOULk=\/fit-in\/200x3000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/larq-water-filter-pitcher-madeline-muzzi-03-c65424450d8a4a3fa01615967611f255.jpg)\n### Key Specs\n- **Capacity:** 8 cups\n- **Dimensions:** 9 x 5.5 x 10 inches\n- **Replacement filter cost** \\$26 with a subscription, \\$33 standard\n- **Filter capacity:** 60 gallons\n- **Certifications:** Certified for the improvement of taste and odor under NSF\/ANSI standards 42, 53, and 401\n\n**What we liked:** The Brita UltraMax holds up to 27 cups of water—enough to hydrate the whole family. Built-in handles and a hinged top make refilling easier. This dispenser’s narrow design and smooth, straight sides streamline storage and simplify cleanup. The dispenser tap was easy to use and can click into place for hands-free dispensing. I did not observe any unwelcoming dripping from the spigot during testing.\n\n**What we didn’t like:** The dispenser nozzle is a little short—the entire device needs to be very close to the edge of a shelf to accommodate a glass. The plastic body is slightly brittle and may chip over time.\n\n- ![brita dispenser on marble surface](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/E9N58QKJsfoZ6ZMWB82lNzpqLok=\/fit-in\/1500x3000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/resized-water-filter-pitchers-Brita-UltraMax-Large-Water-Dispenser-madeline-muzzi-1-3235d4a423ee45a7a86fa042d65408e3.jpg)\n  Credit: Serious Eats\n- ![filling the brita dispenser](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/4LvMP_WpSF5q_cCXF6nDi10xzQU=\/fit-in\/1500x3000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/water-filter-pitchers-Brita-UltraMax-Large-Water-Dispenser-madeline-muzzi-3-0ea6fef0c9e34cc584bc5cfe443df5b3.jpg)\n  Credit: Serious Eats\n- ![a water dispenser next to a few bottles of wine in the fridge](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/wf3593Lbrlm04Ha3bFYLB7GJb8E=\/fit-in\/1500x1000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/sea-water-filter-pitchers-brita-ultramax-large-dispenser-5-madeline-muzzi-5e82eb2e39744f539c5a959fa10ce63d.jpeg)\n  Credit: Serious Eats\n\n- ![brita dispenser on marble surface](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/k20O0dTNhq027wIadQH9hKsT_QE=\/fit-in\/200x3000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/resized-water-filter-pitchers-Brita-UltraMax-Large-Water-Dispenser-madeline-muzzi-1-3235d4a423ee45a7a86fa042d65408e3.jpg)\n- ![filling the brita dispenser](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/louK8PUC8KqHz9iRDMU5TGf90e4=\/fit-in\/200x3000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/water-filter-pitchers-Brita-UltraMax-Large-Water-Dispenser-madeline-muzzi-3-0ea6fef0c9e34cc584bc5cfe443df5b3.jpg)\n- ![a water dispenser next to a few bottles of wine in the fridge](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/bMhrUnR2-9iU9T0j_l5WIlDgeGM=\/fit-in\/200x1000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/sea-water-filter-pitchers-brita-ultramax-large-dispenser-5-madeline-muzzi-5e82eb2e39744f539c5a959fa10ce63d.jpeg)\n### Key Specs\n- **Capacity:** 27 cups\n- **Dimensions:** 14\\.37 x 5.67 x 10.47 inches\n- **Replacement filter cost** \\$15\n- **Filter capacity:** 40 gallons\n- **Certifications:** Certified for the improvement of taste and odor under NSF\/ANSI Standard 42\n\n**What we liked:** The PUR PLUS dispenser delivers maximum capacity without taking up additional fridge space. Its slim body fits neatly onto shelves, leaving plenty of room for [storage containers](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/best-food-storage-containers-6750861) or other items to line up next to its straight sides. This was one of the only dishwasher-safe models—an easy solution for an occasional deep clean. The PUR PLUS offers affordable filter replacements with NFS certifications.\n\n**What we didn’t like:** This is one of the only models that requires completely removing the lid to refill the dispenser, which was slightly annoying but not a dealbreaker.\n\n- ![Pur 30-cup water dispenser on a marble countertop](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/FBZdPIemGu9KCHDxhhiavjoA_P8=\/fit-in\/1500x3000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/reszied-water-filter-pitchers-Pur-30-cup-madeline-muzzi-1-5bfa88bdaf9e433b818e5defb697d857.jpg)\n  Credit: Serious Eats\n- ![a person dispensing water from the Pur dispenser](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/pIxeWOb3B6EYHptzHNqVvpUqxE8=\/fit-in\/1500x3000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/water-filter-pitchers-Pur-30-cup-madeline-muzzi-6-48eeb8bf92e24e458f5b9eeb71258292.jpg)\n  Credit: Serious Eats\n- ![the pur dispenser next to the sink](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/kfI81npmNWy3u7c8gD8j2IZIMCs=\/fit-in\/1500x3000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/water-filter-pitchers-Pur-30-cup-madeline-muzzi-3-9f273959f84342989381e188697d9002.jpg)\n  Credit: Serious Eats\n\n- ![Pur 30-cup water dispenser on a marble countertop](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/59OH0sokPGp36Xsl0fr-GzZ8m7c=\/fit-in\/200x3000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/reszied-water-filter-pitchers-Pur-30-cup-madeline-muzzi-1-5bfa88bdaf9e433b818e5defb697d857.jpg)\n- ![a person dispensing water from the Pur dispenser](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/dLIoK_7DBwRIJb8RVHfmaJM7IHw=\/fit-in\/200x3000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/water-filter-pitchers-Pur-30-cup-madeline-muzzi-6-48eeb8bf92e24e458f5b9eeb71258292.jpg)\n- ![the pur dispenser next to the sink](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/thmb\/BWHxaSGac1jt9w1A37k1LkQI43o=\/fit-in\/200x3000\/filters:no_upscale\$\$:max_bytes\$150000\$:strip_icc\$\$\/water-filter-pitchers-Pur-30-cup-madeline-muzzi-3-9f273959f84342989381e188697d9002.jpg)\n### Key Specs\n- **Capacity:** 30 cups\n- **Dimensions:** 15\\.3 x 5.3 x 10.1 inches\n- **Replacement filter cost** \\$25 for 3\n- **Filter capacity:** 40 gallons\n- **Certifications:** NSF certified to reduce microplastics found in tap and bottled water.\n## The Competition\n- [Brita Denali Water Pitcher With Elite Filter](https:\/\/www.brita.com\/products\/denali-pitcher-elite\/): This was a solid pitcher with several certifications and space-saving straight sides. However, this model lost points because the lightweight plastic scratched easily.\n- [Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher With Elite Filter](https:\/\/www.walmart.com\/ip\/Brita-Large-10-Cup-Black-Tahoe-Water-Filter-Pitcher-with-1-Brita-Elite-Filter-Made-Without-BPA\/1683904748?clickid=QKo3NSz%3ACxyNUjNVVhy4-XQEUkH3dEzxW3wFR80&irgwc=1&sourceid=imp_QKo3NSz%3ACxyNUjNVVhy4-XQEUkH3dEzxW3wFR80&veh=aff&wmlspartner=imp_392844&affiliates_ad_id=565706&campaign_id=9383&sharedid=65e74b309af1fd0b871b8f9c): This pitcher is made from brittle plastic and breaks easily. It arrived chipped and sustained additional scratches during the testing process.\n- [ZeroWater 10-Cup Ready-Pour 5-Stage Water Filter Pitcher](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/ZeroWater-Pitcher-Quality-BPA-Free-Certified\/dp\/B0073PZ6O0?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876): This pitcher performed well in the taste test, but its ridged design wasted space and complicated cleanup.\n- [Waterdrop 200-Gallon Long-Life Lucid 10-Cup Water Filter Pitcher](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Waterdrop-200-Gallon-Long-Life-Replacement-Filtration\/dp\/B09JGB2ZYL?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876): I liked this model’s durable, scratch-resistant material. A slightly splashy pour and expensive filters kept it from claiming a top spot.\n- [AmazonBasics 10-Cup Water](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Amazon-Basics-Pitcher-Included-Compatible\/dp\/B07YT18P21?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876). This lightweight, brittle pitcher imparted a faint plasticky taste to filtered water.\n- [Waterdrop Slim Water Filter Dispenser](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Waterdrop-Dispenser-200-Gallon-Long-Life-Lifetime\/dp\/B09Q8HDVRZ?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) A solid device with a well-designed angled basin that dispenses every last drop of water, this model lost points because the plastic dispensing nozzle felt cheap and brittle.\n- [ZeroWater 22-Cup Water Filter Dispenser](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/ZeroWater-Ready-Read-5-Stage-Dispenser-Certified\/dp\/B0C1NTYF4Q?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876). During testing, water leaked around the edge of the filter and didn't pass through it.\n- [Pur 10-Cup Pitcher](https:\/\/www.pur.com\/shop\/pitchers\/pur-10-cup-pitcher-walmart\/): This model pours and filters nicely, but its bulbous design hogs space in the refrigerator compared to straight-sided alternatives.\n## FAQs\n### Are water filter pitchers the same as water purifiers?\nA water filter pitcher is a type of water purifier. That said the term \"filter\" is easier to quantify and regulate than \"purify.\" Water can be cleaned by passing through physical filters or by other means, such as UV light.\n\n### How does a water filter pitcher work?\nWater filter pitchers use gravity to pass tap water through a carbon filtration system that removes certain impurities. They’re typically built with a reservoir at the top, a filter, and a basin. Unfiltered water is poured into the reservoir, gravity pulls it through the filter, and it’s stored in the pitcher basin until it’s consumed.\n\n### How can I find out what is in my tap water?\nThe EPA requires that local water suppliers publish a [Consumer Confidence Report](https:\/\/ordspub.epa.gov\/ords\/safewater\/f?p=136:102::::::) every year. Check your local report to learn about the minerals and contaminants found in public drinking water at treatment facilities. Water can sometimes pick up impurities after it leaves a facility if it passes through damaged or lead pipes. You can test your home tap with a [water quality kit](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B076DRBCBX\/?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) to determine exactly what’s in your H2O.\n\n### Which water filter pitcher removes the most contaminants like PFAS?\nA report from the [Minnesota Department of Health](https:\/\/www.health.state.mn.us\/communities\/environment\/hazardous\/topics\/pfashometreat.html#:~:text=If%20you%20have%20concerns%20about,regular%20maintenance%20to%20work%20properly.) shows that carbon filters, like those used in gravity-powered pitchers, can effectively reduce PFAs when used properly. Changing your filter frequently will ensure its efficacy. Compared to carbon filters, pressurized [reverse osmosis filters](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B00CHYLY9I?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) remove a greater percentage of contaminants.\n\n### Do water pitchers or dispensers filter out bacteria?\nThe majority of home water filter pitchers use activated carbon filters to remove contaminants. These filters remove dissolved solids and chlorine, but they have not been proven to remove bacteria or germs. Some evidence suggests that eliminating chlorine without removing bacteria creates an environment where the bacteria can breed easily.\n\n### What's the best glass water filter pitcher?\nWe didn't test glass water filters in this test. Because glass is breakable, they're not ideal for daily, frequent use. That said, some of our favorite filter pitchers, like the [LARQ PureVis,](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/LARQ-Pitcher-PureVis-Advanced-Filter\/dp\/B00CWY0CY6?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) are made from BPA-free plastic.\n\n### What's the best faucet water filter?\nWhen we tested faucet-mounted water filters, we chose two winners: the [Brita Faucet Mount Water Filtration System](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Brita-Filtration-Reminder-Reduces-Standard\/dp\/B004INTGKK?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) and the Culligan FM-25 Faucet-Mount Advanced Water Filtration System. You can read our [full review here](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/the-best-faucet-water-filters-7569426).\n\n## Why We’re the Experts\n- [Madeline Muzzi](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/madeline-muzzi-5193669) is a writer, editor, and video producer. She has written many reviews for Serious Eats, including [wine decanters](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/best-wine-decanters-6889328), [mini mortar and pestles](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/best-mini-mortar-and-pestles-7167627), and [countertop ice makers](https:\/\/www.seriouseats.com\/best-ice-makers-6833617).\n- For this review, Madeline tested 12 water filter pitchers and dispensers to find ones that were easy to use and third-party certified.","meta_canonical":null}

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Boilerpipe Text	Straight to the Point The best water filter pitcher is the LifeStraw Home Water Filter Pitcher . It’s certified to remove lead, and its pleasing design will look right at home on the dinner table. We also like the Brita UltraMax Large Water Dispenser that holds up to 27 cups of water. It might surprise non-residents to learn that New York City, a place with an officially appointed rat czar, is blessed with pristine drinking water. It flows in from the Catskills/Delaware system and arrives with a neutral taste and a silky smooth texture—my local consumer confidence report boasts that it’s “the Champagne of tap water. 1 ” Unfortunately, the quality of the water source isn’t the only factor that influences what ends up in your glass. Water has to travel through pipes and may be stored in reservoirs before it reaches your home. Enter the water filter pitcher: an easy way to make sure each cup of water you sip is palatable. If you have a full household that drinks a lot of water, you might prefer a filtered dispenser model with a large capacity. Pitchers hold less water but are better suited for placing on the table during meals. I tested 12 at-home water filter pitchers and dispensers to find ones that poured water smoothly. The Tests An unbiased taste test of water helped us determine which pitcher filters were best. Serious Eats Flow Rate Test: I calculated the flow rate of each pitcher and dispenser by timing how long it took to pour out four cups of water. Fridge Fit Test: I placed each pitcher/dispenser in the fridge, noting how difficult they were to transport and how much storage space they required. Filtration Blind Taste Test: I conducted a blind taste test to assess the impact of filtration on water flavor. With the help of a friend, I compared the taste profile of the filtered water from each pitcher/dispenser to tap water and bottled water, noting any differences. Usability and Cleaning Tests: I used each device to pour one cup of water into two glasses , noting any splashes or difficulties. After testing, I cleaned each device according to the manufacturer's instructions, checking for any chips or scratches. What We Learned Look for Certifications Look for pitchers with filters that have been third-party certified for quality and purity. Serious Eats If you’re concerned about water quality, checking your local consumer water supply report is a good place to start. The Environmental Protection Agency requires that water suppliers publish an annual Consumer Confidence Report. You can also use a home kit to test your tap water for lead or other contaminants; many cities provide these kits for assessing water quality for free. There are two main reasons to filter your tap water: to remove contaminants or to improve the taste (which some coffee aficionados will tell you makes a real difference when brewing your morning cuppa). Understanding your goal will help you make the best decision when purchasing a water filtration system. If you’re concerned about specific contaminants, you’ll need a filter certified to remove them. You have more options if you’re simply hoping to improve the taste. The LifeStraw pitcher meets the National Sanitation Foundation standards for filtering PFOA and PFOS. Serious Eats Not all filters are the same, though, and some may capture certain contaminants better than others. If you’re concerned about a specific element, such as lead, look for a pitcher that has been independently tested and certified for lead removal by a trusted agency. The New York State Department of Health recommends the NSF , UL , and Water Quality Association as trusted certifying bodies. How do water filters work? All of the pitchers and dispensers filter water by passing it from a reservoir at the top of the device through a filter and into a basin. (These are called gravity models.) This pitcher style typically uses activated carbon (charcoal) filters that attract chemicals. Carbon filters effectively remove certain elements, such as chlorine, but they cannot remove bacteria. Chlorine, which is commonly added to tap water to kill germs, is often the culprit behind unpleasant flavors. Activated charcoal filters can remove this chemical and help improve the water’s taste. Gravity filters are generally less powerful than pressurized reverse osmosis systems (which are installed under the sink). Dispensers and Pitchers Should Be Easy to Refill The best water filter pitchers can be refilled without removing their lids. Serious Eats Water filter pitchers and dispensers see a decent amount of action. They need to be filled, refilled, plopped in the fridge, and repeatedly handled. The right design elements make these otherwise tedious tasks easier. My favorite pitchers and dispensers, namely the Brita UltraMax and LifeStraw , can be filled from the sink without removing the lid; instead, they have a slide top that stays open for hands-free filling. Other models, including the LARQ 8-Cup Water Filter Pitcher and the Waterdrop Lucid 10-Cup , featured trapdoor-style portals that open under the weight of running water. Although they were easy to use, they required running water over the exterior of the pitcher, which can be a little splashy and may not be sanitary. The PUR PLUS 30-Cup Water Filter Dispenser and AmazonBasics 10-Cup Water Pitcher require you to remove the entire lid each time you refill. Material quality also affects the refilling process. Brittle plastic models like the Brita Denali Water Pitcher With Elite Filter and the Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher With Elite Filter chipped and scratched easily when handled. Straight Sides Made Storage Easy Water filter dispensers with straight sides and right angles were easiest to store. Serious Eats The majority of pitchers and dispensers that I tested featured straight walls that fit nicely on a refrigerator shelf next to other items. The Pur 10-Cup Pitcher was a notable exception—this large, cylindrical pitcher took up more than its fair share of fridge space. The ZeroWater 10-Cup Ready-Pour 5-Stage Water Filter Pitcher also presented some storage challenges. Although it’s narrow, its ridges and overhangs increased its overall footprint without increasing capacity. In general, the dispenser models made good use of space—these slim, rectangular vessels use tall straight walls to offer maximum capacity, and it’s easy to stack products next to them. Admittedly, the Lifestraw, one of my favorites, is cylindrical. Even though it can’t tessellate neatly with cartons or containers, it has a small base and tall walls that maximize its storage capacity without hogging the shelf. Water Dispensers vs. Water Filter Pitchers Pitchers were faster pourers, but dispensers could be used one-handed. Serious Eats If you’re in a hurry, pitchers are the way to go. During the flow rate test, all of the pitcher models poured four cups of water much more quickly than the dispensers. Filter dispensers, on the other hand, provided an easier glass-filling experience. Pouring water from a pitcher is a two-handed process—one to hold the pitcher, one to stabilize the glass. Dispensers don’t need to be held (they’re designed to rest on refrigerator shelves). Except for the Waterdrop Slim Water Filter Dispenser , all of the dispensers included tabs that could lock into place. This made it possible to fill a glass of water quickly with one hand. The Criteria: What to Look for in a Water Filter Pitcher or Dispenser Serious Eats The best water filtration devices are made from durable materials and use independently certified filters. Consider your household hydration needs and look for a pitcher that holds enough water to last a few days. For easy access, choose a model that can be refilled without removing the lid. I also preferred pitchers and dispensers that were quick to pour from. Our Favorite Water Filter Pitchers and Dispensers What we liked: The LifeStraw carbon filter boasts a variety of independent certifications from NSF, as well as WQA and ANSI-accredited laboratories. It’s proven to remove lead, mercury, and chlorine to improve water safety and flavor. The LifeStraw is equipped with two filters—a carbon filter and a membrane microfilter—giving it the power to remove bacteria as well as dissolved solids. This pitcher has a tight-fitting lid and pours water smoothly. It can be refilled through a flap without removing the top. This elegant pitcher doubles as a lovely way to present water on the table. It’s available in several colors and materials, including a glass model. What we didn’t like: This tall pitcher may be difficult to fit on smaller refrigerator shelves. The dark plastic body sustained a few visible scratches during testing. Credit: Serious Eats Credit: Serious Eats Credit: Serious Eats Key Specs Capacity: 7 cups Dimensions: 6.44 x 14.44 x 9.44 inches Replacement filter cost: $14 Filter capacity: 40 gallons Certifications: Meets US EPA & NSF P231 drinking water standards for the removal of bacteria and parasites What we liked: The LARQ pitcher’s straight sides and rounded edges stack neatly against other items in the fridge. This model is designed with an open handle that is easy to grab and hold for transportation or pouring. The plastic body resisted scratching during testing and feels unlikely to chip. What we didn’t like: With a subscription price of $26 ($33 without a subscription), these were the most expensive replacement filters I tested. Credit: Serious Eats Credit: Serious Eats Credit: Serious Eats Key Specs Capacity: 8 cups Dimensions: 9 x 5.5 x 10 inches Replacement filter cost $26 with a subscription, $33 standard Filter capacity: 60 gallons Certifications: Certified for the improvement of taste and odor under NSF/ANSI standards 42, 53, and 401 What we liked: The Brita UltraMax holds up to 27 cups of water—enough to hydrate the whole family. Built-in handles and a hinged top make refilling easier. This dispenser’s narrow design and smooth, straight sides streamline storage and simplify cleanup. The dispenser tap was easy to use and can click into place for hands-free dispensing. I did not observe any unwelcoming dripping from the spigot during testing. What we didn’t like: The dispenser nozzle is a little short—the entire device needs to be very close to the edge of a shelf to accommodate a glass. The plastic body is slightly brittle and may chip over time. Credit: Serious Eats Credit: Serious Eats Credit: Serious Eats Key Specs Capacity: 27 cups Dimensions: 14.37 x 5.67 x 10.47 inches Replacement filter cost $15 Filter capacity: 40 gallons Certifications: Certified for the improvement of taste and odor under NSF/ANSI Standard 42 What we liked: The PUR PLUS dispenser delivers maximum capacity without taking up additional fridge space. Its slim body fits neatly onto shelves, leaving plenty of room for storage containers or other items to line up next to its straight sides. This was one of the only dishwasher-safe models—an easy solution for an occasional deep clean. The PUR PLUS offers affordable filter replacements with NFS certifications. What we didn’t like: This is one of the only models that requires completely removing the lid to refill the dispenser, which was slightly annoying but not a dealbreaker. Credit: Serious Eats Credit: Serious Eats Credit: Serious Eats Key Specs Capacity: 30 cups Dimensions: 15.3 x 5.3 x 10.1 inches Replacement filter cost $25 for 3 Filter capacity: 40 gallons Certifications: NSF certified to reduce microplastics found in tap and bottled water. The Competition Brita Denali Water Pitcher With Elite Filter : This was a solid pitcher with several certifications and space-saving straight sides. However, this model lost points because the lightweight plastic scratched easily. Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher With Elite Filter : This pitcher is made from brittle plastic and breaks easily. It arrived chipped and sustained additional scratches during the testing process. ZeroWater 10-Cup Ready-Pour 5-Stage Water Filter Pitcher : This pitcher performed well in the taste test, but its ridged design wasted space and complicated cleanup. Waterdrop 200-Gallon Long-Life Lucid 10-Cup Water Filter Pitcher : I liked this model’s durable, scratch-resistant material. A slightly splashy pour and expensive filters kept it from claiming a top spot. AmazonBasics 10-Cup Water . This lightweight, brittle pitcher imparted a faint plasticky taste to filtered water. Waterdrop Slim Water Filter Dispenser A solid device with a well-designed angled basin that dispenses every last drop of water, this model lost points because the plastic dispensing nozzle felt cheap and brittle. ZeroWater 22-Cup Water Filter Dispenser . During testing, water leaked around the edge of the filter and didn't pass through it. Pur 10-Cup Pitcher : This model pours and filters nicely, but its bulbous design hogs space in the refrigerator compared to straight-sided alternatives. FAQs Are water filter pitchers the same as water purifiers? A water filter pitcher is a type of water purifier. That said the term "filter" is easier to quantify and regulate than "purify." Water can be cleaned by passing through physical filters or by other means, such as UV light. How does a water filter pitcher work? Water filter pitchers use gravity to pass tap water through a carbon filtration system that removes certain impurities. They’re typically built with a reservoir at the top, a filter, and a basin. Unfiltered water is poured into the reservoir, gravity pulls it through the filter, and it’s stored in the pitcher basin until it’s consumed. How can I find out what is in my tap water? The EPA requires that local water suppliers publish a Consumer Confidence Report every year. Check your local report to learn about the minerals and contaminants found in public drinking water at treatment facilities. Water can sometimes pick up impurities after it leaves a facility if it passes through damaged or lead pipes. You can test your home tap with a water quality kit to determine exactly what’s in your H2O. Which water filter pitcher removes the most contaminants like PFAS? A report from the Minnesota Department of Health shows that carbon filters, like those used in gravity-powered pitchers, can effectively reduce PFAs when used properly. Changing your filter frequently will ensure its efficacy. Compared to carbon filters, pressurized reverse osmosis filters remove a greater percentage of contaminants. Do water pitchers or dispensers filter out bacteria? The majority of home water filter pitchers use activated carbon filters to remove contaminants. These filters remove dissolved solids and chlorine, but they have not been proven to remove bacteria or germs. Some evidence suggests that eliminating chlorine without removing bacteria creates an environment where the bacteria can breed easily. What's the best glass water filter pitcher? We didn't test glass water filters in this test. Because glass is breakable, they're not ideal for daily, frequent use. That said, some of our favorite filter pitchers, like the LARQ PureVis, are made from BPA-free plastic. What's the best faucet water filter? When we tested faucet-mounted water filters, we chose two winners: the Brita Faucet Mount Water Filtration System and the Culligan FM-25 Faucet-Mount Advanced Water Filtration System. You can read our full review here . Why We’re the Experts Madeline Muzzi is a writer, editor, and video producer. She has written many reviews for Serious Eats, including wine decanters , mini mortar and pestles , and countertop ice makers . For this review, Madeline tested 12 water filter pitchers and dispensers to find ones that were easy to use and third-party certified.
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If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. # I Tested 12 Water Filter Pitchers and Dispensers and Found Four Smooth Pourers The best water filter pitcher is from LifeStraw, while the Brita UltraMax was the top water dispenser. By [Madeline Muzzi](https://www.seriouseats.com/madeline-muzzi-5193669) ![Madeline Muzzi Headshot]() ![Madeline Muzzi Headshot](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/tTJDHBGgJzngP4KO4Ohj6Qc5pfc=/200x200/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/IMG_3897-20530d5f68824abbb9917b2de9d30039.jpg) [Madeline Muzzi](https://www.seriouseats.com/madeline-muzzi-5193669) Writer Madeline Muzzi is a food writer with more than 10 years of experience covering cooking, restaurants and wine. She is an accomplished cook and certified sommelier. Learn about Serious Eats' [Editorial Process](https://www.seriouseats.com/about-us-5120006#toc-editorial-guidelines) Updated February 19, 2026 ![the lineup of water filter pitchers on a blue countertop](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/5imF2XzzX4YnOnh6t-w2FWM9i9k=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/water-pitchers-group-shot-AC-resize-804d101ce936406c9d91b510417f0949.jpg) ![the lineup of water filter pitchers on a blue countertop](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/5imF2XzzX4YnOnh6t-w2FWM9i9k=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/water-pitchers-group-shot-AC-resize-804d101ce936406c9d91b510417f0949.jpg) Serious Eats In This Article Expand - [Top Picks](https://www.seriouseats.com/best-water-filter-pitchers-6749876#toc-top-picks) - [The Tests](https://www.seriouseats.com/best-water-filter-pitchers-6749876#toc-the-tests) - [What We Learned](https://www.seriouseats.com/best-water-filter-pitchers-6749876#toc-what-we-learned) - [The Criteria](https://www.seriouseats.com/best-water-filter-pitchers-6749876#toc-the-criteria-what-to-look-for-in-a-water-filter-pitcher-or-dispenser) - [Our Favorite Water Filter Pitchers](https://www.seriouseats.com/best-water-filter-pitchers-6749876#toc-our-favorite-water-filter-pitchers-and-dispensers) - [The Competition](https://www.seriouseats.com/best-water-filter-pitchers-6749876#toc-the-competition) - [FAQs](https://www.seriouseats.com/best-water-filter-pitchers-6749876#toc-faqs) - [Why We’re the Experts](https://www.seriouseats.com/best-water-filter-pitchers-6749876#toc-why-were-the-experts) ### Straight to the Point The best water filter pitcher is the [LifeStraw Home Water Filter Pitcher](https://www.amazon.com/LifeStraw-Home-Water-Filter-Pitcher/dp/B0BBSL6P2P?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876). It’s certified to remove lead, and its pleasing design will look right at home on the dinner table. We also like the [Brita UltraMax Large Water Dispenser](https://www.amazon.com/Brita-UltraMax-Filtered-Water-Dispenser/dp/B09WBX1WKC?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) that holds up to 27 cups of water. It might surprise non-residents to learn that New York City, a place with an officially appointed rat czar, is blessed with pristine drinking water. It flows in from the Catskills/Delaware system and arrives with a neutral taste and a silky smooth texture—my local consumer confidence report boasts that it’s “the Champagne of tap water.1” Unfortunately, the quality of the water source isn’t the only factor that influences what ends up in your glass. Water has to travel through pipes and may be stored in reservoirs before it reaches your home. Enter the water filter pitcher: an easy way to make sure each cup of water you sip is palatable. If you have a full household that drinks a lot of water, you might prefer a filtered dispenser model with a large capacity. Pitchers hold less water but are better suited for placing on the table during meals. I tested 12 at-home water filter pitchers and dispensers to find ones that poured water smoothly. ## Top Picks The Best Water Filter Pitcher: [LifeStraw Home Water Filter Pitcher at Amazon \$50](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B089QWCT6R?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) [Jump to Review](https://www.seriouseats.com/best-water-filter-pitchers-6749876#toc-the-best-water-filter-pitcher-lifestraw-home-water-filter-pitcher) The Best Splurge Water Filter Pitcher: [Larq PureVis Water Filter Pitcher at Amazon \$168](https://www.amazon.com/LARQ-Pitcher-PureVis-Advanced-Filter/dp/B00CWY0CY6?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) [Jump to Review](https://www.seriouseats.com/best-water-filter-pitchers-6749876#toc-the-best-splurge-water-filter-pitcher-larq-purevis-water-filter-pitcher) The Best Water Filter Dispenser: [Brita XL Water Filter Dispenser at Amazon \$38](https://www.amazon.com/Brita-UltraMax-Filtered-Water-Dispenser/dp/B09WBX1WKC?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) [Jump to Review](https://www.seriouseats.com/best-water-filter-pitchers-6749876#toc-the-best-water-filter-dispenser-brita-xl-water-filter-dispenser) The Best Extra-Large Water Filter Dispenser: SALE [Pur Plus Dispenser at Amazon ~~\$43~~ \$27](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07CRSK5KX?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) [Jump to Review](https://www.seriouseats.com/best-water-filter-pitchers-6749876#toc-the-best-extra-large-water-filter-dispenser-pur-plus-30-cup-dispenser) ## The Tests ![a person blind-tasting filtered water ](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/dA9xIsr4Mwi8m6Q1HlE2aCEZfxw=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/sea-water-filter-pitchers-blind-taste-test-madeline-muzzi-a7b0bd24c0fe4b98bb2bf19501c30c5a.jpeg) ![a person blind-tasting filtered water ](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/dA9xIsr4Mwi8m6Q1HlE2aCEZfxw=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/sea-water-filter-pitchers-blind-taste-test-madeline-muzzi-a7b0bd24c0fe4b98bb2bf19501c30c5a.jpeg) An unbiased taste test of water helped us determine which pitcher filters were best. Serious Eats - Flow Rate Test: I calculated the flow rate of each pitcher and dispenser by timing how long it took to pour out four cups of water. - Fridge Fit Test: I placed each pitcher/dispenser in the fridge, noting how difficult they were to transport and how much storage space they required. - Filtration Blind Taste Test: I conducted a blind taste test to assess the impact of filtration on water flavor. With the help of a friend, I compared the taste profile of the filtered water from each pitcher/dispenser to tap water and bottled water, noting any differences. - Usability and Cleaning Tests: I used each device to pour one cup of water into two [glasses](https://www.seriouseats.com/best-drinking-glasses-7368442), noting any splashes or difficulties. After testing, I cleaned each device according to the manufacturer's instructions, checking for any chips or scratches. ## What We Learned ### Look for Certifications ![a water filter pitcher pouring water into a glass](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/SqI18s6ufRprIXkkWRwNrU6zSOk=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/sea-pur-water-pitcher-filtration-system-7-cup-lifestyle-photo-abigail-clarkin-02.jpg-0883ebbf6c354e0e859ea8998a1b8cd2.jpg) ![a water filter pitcher pouring water into a glass](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/SqI18s6ufRprIXkkWRwNrU6zSOk=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/sea-pur-water-pitcher-filtration-system-7-cup-lifestyle-photo-abigail-clarkin-02.jpg-0883ebbf6c354e0e859ea8998a1b8cd2.jpg) Look for pitchers with filters that have been third-party certified for quality and purity. Serious Eats If you’re concerned about water quality, checking your local consumer water supply report is a good place to start. The Environmental Protection Agency requires that water suppliers publish an annual [Consumer Confidence Report.](https://ordspub.epa.gov/ords/safewater/f?p=136:102::::::) You can also use a home kit to test your tap water for lead or other contaminants; many cities provide these kits for assessing water quality for free. There are two main reasons to filter your tap water: to remove contaminants or to improve the taste (which [some coffee aficionados](https://www.seriouseats.com/make-better-pourover-coffee-how-pourover-works-temperature-timing) will tell you makes a real difference when brewing your morning cuppa). Understanding your goal will help you make the best decision when purchasing a water filtration system. If you’re concerned about specific contaminants, you’ll need a filter certified to remove them. You have more options if you’re simply hoping to improve the taste. ![Water inside the LifeStraw Home Water Filter Pitcher](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/QE5BRndZhVAF-UFf8Fcpqf_mTFM=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/sea-lifestraw-home-10-cup-pitcher-lifestyle-faulty-handle-photo-abigail-clarkin-01-f1cd9c5200e04d5b86736b5b2746a012.jpeg) ![Water inside the LifeStraw Home Water Filter Pitcher](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/QE5BRndZhVAF-UFf8Fcpqf_mTFM=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/sea-lifestraw-home-10-cup-pitcher-lifestyle-faulty-handle-photo-abigail-clarkin-01-f1cd9c5200e04d5b86736b5b2746a012.jpeg) The LifeStraw pitcher meets the National Sanitation Foundation standards for filtering PFOA and PFOS. Serious Eats Not all filters are the same, though, and some may capture certain contaminants better than others. If you’re concerned about a specific element, such as lead, look for a pitcher that has been independently tested and certified for lead removal by a trusted agency. The New York State Department of Health recommends the [NSF](http://www.nsf.org/consumer-resources/health-and-safety-tips/water-quality-treatment-tips/), [UL](https://ul.com/code-authorities/environmental-and-public-health/drinking-water/), and [Water Quality Association](https://wqa.org/) as trusted certifying bodies. ### How do water filters work? All of the pitchers and dispensers filter water by passing it from a reservoir at the top of the device through a filter and into a basin. (These are called gravity models.) This pitcher style typically uses activated carbon (charcoal) filters that attract chemicals. Carbon filters effectively remove certain elements, such as chlorine, but they cannot remove bacteria. Chlorine, which is commonly added to tap water to kill germs, is often the culprit behind unpleasant flavors. Activated charcoal filters can remove this chemical and help improve the water’s taste. Gravity filters are generally less powerful than pressurized reverse osmosis systems (which are installed under the sink). ### Dispensers and Pitchers Should Be Easy to Refill ![filling a water dispenser](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/TzGlBIUrbY2-8EeKyh7UCz0Qruc=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/sea-water-filter-pitchers-brita-ultramax-large-dispenser-3-madeline-muzzi-cfed62064d3849cb9f76a6b215b106da.jpeg) ![filling a water dispenser](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/TzGlBIUrbY2-8EeKyh7UCz0Qruc=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/sea-water-filter-pitchers-brita-ultramax-large-dispenser-3-madeline-muzzi-cfed62064d3849cb9f76a6b215b106da.jpeg) The best water filter pitchers can be refilled without removing their lids. Serious Eats Water filter pitchers and dispensers see a decent amount of action. They need to be filled, refilled, plopped in the fridge, and repeatedly handled. The right design elements make these otherwise tedious tasks easier. My favorite pitchers and dispensers, namely the [Brita UltraMax](https://www.amazon.com/Brita-UltraMax-Filtered-Water-Dispenser/dp/B09WBX1WKC?th=1&tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) and [LifeStraw](https://www.amazon.com/LifeStraw-Home-Water-Filter-Pitcher/dp/B0BBSL6P2P?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876), can be filled from the sink without removing the lid; instead, they have a slide top that stays open for hands-free filling. Other models, including the [LARQ 8-Cup Water Filter Pitcher](https://www.amazon.com/LARQ-Filtered-Drinking-Chlorine-Standards/dp/B0CPFSST74?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) and the [Waterdrop Lucid 10-Cup](https://www.amazon.com/Waterdrop-200-Gallon-Long-Life-Replacement-Filtration/dp/B09JGB2ZYL?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876), featured trapdoor-style portals that open under the weight of running water. Although they were easy to use, they required running water over the exterior of the pitcher, which can be a little splashy and may not be sanitary. The [PUR PLUS 30-Cup Water Filter Dispenser](https://www.amazon.com/PUR-Dispenser-Capacity-Filtration-Dishwasher/dp/B0C7FL37MG?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) and [AmazonBasics 10-Cup Water Pitcher](https://www.amazon.com/Amazon-Basics-Pitcher-Included-Compatible/dp/B07YT18P21?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) require you to remove the entire lid each time you refill. Material quality also affects the refilling process. Brittle plastic models like the [Brita Denali Water Pitcher With Elite Filter](https://www.brita.com/products/denali-pitcher-elite/) and the [Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher With Elite Filter](https://www.walmart.com/ip/Brita-Large-10-Cup-Black-Tahoe-Water-Filter-Pitcher-with-1-Brita-Elite-Filter-Made-Without-BPA/1683904748) chipped and scratched easily when handled. ### Straight Sides Made Storage Easy ![a water dispenser next to a few bottles of wine in the fridge](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/o6rXym6ulLPt_YGeSZ6EiHfaIrU=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/sea-water-filter-pitchers-brita-ultramax-large-dispenser-5-madeline-muzzi-5e82eb2e39744f539c5a959fa10ce63d.jpeg) ![a water dispenser next to a few bottles of wine in the fridge](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/o6rXym6ulLPt_YGeSZ6EiHfaIrU=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/sea-water-filter-pitchers-brita-ultramax-large-dispenser-5-madeline-muzzi-5e82eb2e39744f539c5a959fa10ce63d.jpeg) Water filter dispensers with straight sides and right angles were easiest to store. Serious Eats The majority of pitchers and dispensers that I tested featured straight walls that fit nicely on a refrigerator shelf next to other items. The [Pur 10-Cup Pitcher](https://www.pur.com/shop/pitchers/pur-10-cup-pitcher-walmart/) was a notable exception—this large, cylindrical pitcher took up more than its fair share of fridge space. The [ZeroWater 10-Cup Ready-Pour 5-Stage Water Filter Pitcher](https://www.amazon.com/ZeroWater-Pitcher-Quality-BPA-Free-Certified/dp/B0073PZ6O0?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) also presented some storage challenges. Although it’s narrow, its ridges and overhangs increased its overall footprint without increasing capacity. In general, the dispenser models made good use of space—these slim, rectangular vessels use tall straight walls to offer maximum capacity, and it’s easy to stack products next to them. Admittedly, the Lifestraw, one of my favorites, is cylindrical. Even though it can’t tessellate neatly with cartons or containers, it has a small base and tall walls that maximize its storage capacity without hogging the shelf. ### Water Dispensers vs. Water Filter Pitchers ![an overhead view of water filter pitchers and dispensers on a wooden surface](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/MfmppV7mfulbEA2jk32zr5z-rcY=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/sea-water-filter-pitchers-group-image-3-madeline-muzzi-56cc3f7f5bd24d9d871a88ed82176875.jpeg) ![an overhead view of water filter pitchers and dispensers on a wooden surface](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/MfmppV7mfulbEA2jk32zr5z-rcY=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/sea-water-filter-pitchers-group-image-3-madeline-muzzi-56cc3f7f5bd24d9d871a88ed82176875.jpeg) Pitchers were faster pourers, but dispensers could be used one-handed. Serious Eats If you’re in a hurry, pitchers are the way to go. During the flow rate test, all of the pitcher models poured four cups of water much more quickly than the dispensers. Filter dispensers, on the other hand, provided an easier glass-filling experience. Pouring water from a pitcher is a two-handed process—one to hold the pitcher, one to stabilize the glass. Dispensers don’t need to be held (they’re designed to rest on refrigerator shelves). Except for the [Waterdrop Slim Water Filter Dispenser](https://www.amazon.com/Waterdrop-Dispenser-200-Gallon-Long-Life-Lifetime/dp/B09Q8HDVRZ?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876), all of the dispensers included tabs that could lock into place. This made it possible to fill a glass of water quickly with one hand. ## The Criteria: What to Look for in a Water Filter Pitcher or Dispenser ![a hand pressing the tab on the Pur water dispenser releasing water into the sink](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/pRJqSgSIRZj39d76xrSfnHCqMk4=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/winners-graphic-resized-water-filter-pitchers-Pur-30-cup-madeline-muzzi-6-20f2727e1a214205a96a10179a24cbed.jpg) ![a hand pressing the tab on the Pur water dispenser releasing water into the sink](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/pRJqSgSIRZj39d76xrSfnHCqMk4=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/winners-graphic-resized-water-filter-pitchers-Pur-30-cup-madeline-muzzi-6-20f2727e1a214205a96a10179a24cbed.jpg) Serious Eats The best water filtration devices are made from durable materials and use independently certified filters. Consider your household hydration needs and look for a pitcher that holds enough water to last a few days. For easy access, choose a model that can be refilled without removing the lid. I also preferred pitchers and dispensers that were quick to pour from. ## Our Favorite Water Filter Pitchers and Dispensers ## The Best Water Filter Pitcher [LifeStraw Home Water Filter Pitcher](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B089QWCT6R?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) [![Amazon Lifestraw Water Filter Pitcher ](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/vhQvpQnNkb4PQ8ZOSuVoNV4Tmqo=/fit-in/1500x1000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/lifestraw-water-filter-pitcher-ddb33410d3404a4f8e13bb8e4d39de46.jpg) ![Amazon Lifestraw Water Filter Pitcher ](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/vhQvpQnNkb4PQ8ZOSuVoNV4Tmqo=/fit-in/1500x1000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/lifestraw-water-filter-pitcher-ddb33410d3404a4f8e13bb8e4d39de46.jpg)](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B089QWCT6R?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) Credit: Amazon [\$50 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B089QWCT6R?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) [\$65 at Target](https://www.target.com/p/lifestraw-home-water-filter-pitcher-7-cup-silicone-base-glass-white/-/A-93996878) [\$65 at Crate & Barrel](https://www.crateandbarrel.com/lifestraw-home-7-cup-white-glass-water-filter-pitcher/s107122) What we liked: The LifeStraw carbon filter boasts a variety of independent certifications from NSF, as well as WQA and ANSI-accredited laboratories. It’s proven to remove lead, mercury, and chlorine to improve water safety and flavor. The LifeStraw is equipped with two filters—a carbon filter and a membrane microfilter—giving it the power to remove bacteria as well as dissolved solids. This pitcher has a tight-fitting lid and pours water smoothly. It can be refilled through a flap without removing the top. This elegant pitcher doubles as a lovely way to present water on the table. It’s available in several colors and materials, including a glass model. What we didn’t like: This tall pitcher may be difficult to fit on smaller refrigerator shelves. The dark plastic body sustained a few visible scratches during testing. - ![the lifestraw water filter pitchers on a marble countertop](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/tsSjqgS_-dKz7ONr-xCmzY01Y1s=/fit-in/1500x1000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/sea-water-filter-pitchers-lifestraw-home-2-madeline-muzzi-e9677e6a7bd74b90bf85245c8424de6e.jpeg) ![the lifestraw water filter pitchers on a marble countertop](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/tsSjqgS_-dKz7ONr-xCmzY01Y1s=/fit-in/1500x1000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/sea-water-filter-pitchers-lifestraw-home-2-madeline-muzzi-e9677e6a7bd74b90bf85245c8424de6e.jpeg) Credit: Serious Eats - ![filling the lifestraw pitcher]() ![filling the lifestraw pitcher](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/g2w73cLEF5dWNAEwXmjJHJuejVw=/fit-in/1500x1000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/sea-water-filter-pitchers-lifestraw-home-3-madeline-muzzi-6667f095605d44fb8750e7a011bdcda6.jpeg) Credit: Serious Eats - ![pouring water out of the lifestraw pitcher]() ![pouring water out of the lifestraw pitcher](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/AHPfRCgYTNGjzQGvi2vcOFqy500=/fit-in/1500x1000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/sea-water-filter-pitchers-lifestraw-home-1-madeline-muzzi-151e9087fcdf421c853bfb3f23fd4c10.jpeg) Credit: Serious Eats - ![the lifestraw water filter pitchers on a marble countertop](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/6HJ1J_wMD_kC4N-hNgkGN7StOMY=/fit-in/200x1000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/sea-water-filter-pitchers-lifestraw-home-2-madeline-muzzi-e9677e6a7bd74b90bf85245c8424de6e.jpeg) ![the lifestraw water filter pitchers on a marble countertop](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/6HJ1J_wMD_kC4N-hNgkGN7StOMY=/fit-in/200x1000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/sea-water-filter-pitchers-lifestraw-home-2-madeline-muzzi-e9677e6a7bd74b90bf85245c8424de6e.jpeg) - ![filling the lifestraw pitcher](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/ZyL-2rVGmanpEOoxLfuTtcsaYAY=/fit-in/200x1000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/sea-water-filter-pitchers-lifestraw-home-3-madeline-muzzi-6667f095605d44fb8750e7a011bdcda6.jpeg) ![filling the lifestraw pitcher](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/ZyL-2rVGmanpEOoxLfuTtcsaYAY=/fit-in/200x1000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/sea-water-filter-pitchers-lifestraw-home-3-madeline-muzzi-6667f095605d44fb8750e7a011bdcda6.jpeg) - ![pouring water out of the lifestraw pitcher](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/IYVVL-6WlTxsNS6Nw8Y3Dbctgug=/fit-in/200x1000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/sea-water-filter-pitchers-lifestraw-home-1-madeline-muzzi-151e9087fcdf421c853bfb3f23fd4c10.jpeg) ![pouring water out of the lifestraw pitcher](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/IYVVL-6WlTxsNS6Nw8Y3Dbctgug=/fit-in/200x1000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/sea-water-filter-pitchers-lifestraw-home-1-madeline-muzzi-151e9087fcdf421c853bfb3f23fd4c10.jpeg) ### Key Specs - Capacity: 7 cups - Dimensions: 6\.44 x 14.44 x 9.44 inches - Replacement filter cost: \$14 - Filter capacity: 40 gallons - Certifications: Meets US EPA & NSF P231 drinking water standards for the removal of bacteria and parasites ## The Best Splurge Water Filter Pitcher [Larq PureVis Water Filter Pitcher](https://www.amazon.com/LARQ-Pitcher-PureVis-Advanced-Filter/dp/B00CWY0CY6?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) [![Amazon LARQ Pitcher](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/q23fFgxXz7Jbu82CaWkuMQOch0U=/fit-in/1500x1000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/larq-pitcher-03890058c0bc4d21a9690f36820c38ea.jpg) ![Amazon LARQ Pitcher](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/q23fFgxXz7Jbu82CaWkuMQOch0U=/fit-in/1500x1000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/larq-pitcher-03890058c0bc4d21a9690f36820c38ea.jpg)](https://www.amazon.com/LARQ-Pitcher-PureVis-Advanced-Filter/dp/B00CWY0CY6?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) Credit: Amazon [\$168 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/LARQ-Pitcher-PureVis-Advanced-Filter/dp/B00CWY0CY6?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) [\$168 at Williams Sonoma](https://www.williams-sonoma.com/products/larq-pitcher) [\$168 \$139 at Livelarq.com](https://www.livelarq.com/shop/larq-pitcher-purevis) What we liked: The LARQ pitcher’s straight sides and rounded edges stack neatly against other items in the fridge. This model is designed with an open handle that is easy to grab and hold for transportation or pouring. The plastic body resisted scratching during testing and feels unlikely to chip. What we didn’t like: With a subscription price of \$26 (\$33 without a subscription), these were the most expensive replacement filters I tested. - ![larq water pitcher on marble countertop](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/t94n0LCcBlc16naDcyqydbrlgqI=/fit-in/1500x3000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/resized-Larq-water-filter-pitcher-madeline-muzzi-843194f6c6bd4c249c9dc8a0c0a1e45f.jpg) ![larq water pitcher on marble countertop](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/t94n0LCcBlc16naDcyqydbrlgqI=/fit-in/1500x3000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/resized-Larq-water-filter-pitcher-madeline-muzzi-843194f6c6bd4c249c9dc8a0c0a1e45f.jpg) Credit: Serious Eats - ![filling the larq pitcher]() ![filling the larq pitcher](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/7g0lNmMYJ2Pj9wLkeV9yYpBCn6A=/fit-in/1500x3000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/larq-water-filter-pitcher-madeline-muzzi-02-cc5d7b4070284b3dae25340effa46ab6.jpg) Credit: Serious Eats - ![pouring water out of the larq pitcher]() ![pouring water out of the larq pitcher](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/LCBRitqYKjOzvj4i-5wNjPV2Cfo=/fit-in/1500x3000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/larq-water-filter-pitcher-madeline-muzzi-03-c65424450d8a4a3fa01615967611f255.jpg) Credit: Serious Eats - ![larq water pitcher on marble countertop](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/d63LU0mYSW7xHc-okAvfLC25uS4=/fit-in/200x3000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/resized-Larq-water-filter-pitcher-madeline-muzzi-843194f6c6bd4c249c9dc8a0c0a1e45f.jpg) ![larq water pitcher on marble countertop](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/d63LU0mYSW7xHc-okAvfLC25uS4=/fit-in/200x3000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/resized-Larq-water-filter-pitcher-madeline-muzzi-843194f6c6bd4c249c9dc8a0c0a1e45f.jpg) - ![filling the larq pitcher](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/GO-JR7rc7ppoPAbyIw4XwpMdNvw=/fit-in/200x3000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/larq-water-filter-pitcher-madeline-muzzi-02-cc5d7b4070284b3dae25340effa46ab6.jpg) ![filling the larq pitcher](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/GO-JR7rc7ppoPAbyIw4XwpMdNvw=/fit-in/200x3000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/larq-water-filter-pitcher-madeline-muzzi-02-cc5d7b4070284b3dae25340effa46ab6.jpg) - ![pouring water out of the larq pitcher](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/B7wY8mh3BXY6qmyFGkV9HAoOULk=/fit-in/200x3000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/larq-water-filter-pitcher-madeline-muzzi-03-c65424450d8a4a3fa01615967611f255.jpg) ![pouring water out of the larq pitcher](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/B7wY8mh3BXY6qmyFGkV9HAoOULk=/fit-in/200x3000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/larq-water-filter-pitcher-madeline-muzzi-03-c65424450d8a4a3fa01615967611f255.jpg) ### Key Specs - Capacity: 8 cups - Dimensions: 9 x 5.5 x 10 inches - Replacement filter cost \$26 with a subscription, \$33 standard - Filter capacity: 60 gallons - Certifications: Certified for the improvement of taste and odor under NSF/ANSI standards 42, 53, and 401 ## The Best Water Filter Dispenser [Brita XL Water Filter Dispenser](https://www.amazon.com/Brita-UltraMax-Filtered-Water-Dispenser/dp/B09WBX1WKC?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) [![Amazon Brita XL Water Filter Dispenser]() ![Amazon Brita XL Water Filter Dispenser](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/hgsfCHw2ieiaoDWGvtXfShghPwQ=/fit-in/1500x1000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/Brita-XL-Water-Filter-Dispenser-af7a59efcada4b14ab157cf197969e2c.jpg)](https://www.amazon.com/Brita-UltraMax-Filtered-Water-Dispenser/dp/B09WBX1WKC?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) Credit: Amazon [\$38 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/Brita-UltraMax-Filtered-Water-Dispenser/dp/B09WBX1WKC?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) [\$50 at Target](https://www.target.com/p/brita-extra-large-27-cup-ultramax-filtered-water-dispenser-with-filter-jet-black/-/A-52677307) [\$50 at Home Depot](https://www.homedepot.com/p/Brita-UltraMax-27-Cup-Extra-Large-Filtered-Water-Dispenser-with-Elite-Filter-BPA-Free-6025836261/319727636?slpfid=3) What we liked: The Brita UltraMax holds up to 27 cups of water—enough to hydrate the whole family. Built-in handles and a hinged top make refilling easier. This dispenser’s narrow design and smooth, straight sides streamline storage and simplify cleanup. The dispenser tap was easy to use and can click into place for hands-free dispensing. I did not observe any unwelcoming dripping from the spigot during testing. What we didn’t like: The dispenser nozzle is a little short—the entire device needs to be very close to the edge of a shelf to accommodate a glass. The plastic body is slightly brittle and may chip over time. - ![brita dispenser on marble surface]() ![brita dispenser on marble surface](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/E9N58QKJsfoZ6ZMWB82lNzpqLok=/fit-in/1500x3000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/resized-water-filter-pitchers-Brita-UltraMax-Large-Water-Dispenser-madeline-muzzi-1-3235d4a423ee45a7a86fa042d65408e3.jpg) Credit: Serious Eats - ![filling the brita dispenser]() ![filling the brita dispenser](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/4LvMP_WpSF5q_cCXF6nDi10xzQU=/fit-in/1500x3000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/water-filter-pitchers-Brita-UltraMax-Large-Water-Dispenser-madeline-muzzi-3-0ea6fef0c9e34cc584bc5cfe443df5b3.jpg) Credit: Serious Eats - ![a water dispenser next to a few bottles of wine in the fridge]() ![a water dispenser next to a few bottles of wine in the fridge](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/wf3593Lbrlm04Ha3bFYLB7GJb8E=/fit-in/1500x1000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/sea-water-filter-pitchers-brita-ultramax-large-dispenser-5-madeline-muzzi-5e82eb2e39744f539c5a959fa10ce63d.jpeg) Credit: Serious Eats - ![brita dispenser on marble surface]() ![brita dispenser on marble surface](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/k20O0dTNhq027wIadQH9hKsT_QE=/fit-in/200x3000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/resized-water-filter-pitchers-Brita-UltraMax-Large-Water-Dispenser-madeline-muzzi-1-3235d4a423ee45a7a86fa042d65408e3.jpg) - ![filling the brita dispenser]() ![filling the brita dispenser](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/louK8PUC8KqHz9iRDMU5TGf90e4=/fit-in/200x3000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/water-filter-pitchers-Brita-UltraMax-Large-Water-Dispenser-madeline-muzzi-3-0ea6fef0c9e34cc584bc5cfe443df5b3.jpg) - ![a water dispenser next to a few bottles of wine in the fridge]() ![a water dispenser next to a few bottles of wine in the fridge](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/bMhrUnR2-9iU9T0j_l5WIlDgeGM=/fit-in/200x1000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/sea-water-filter-pitchers-brita-ultramax-large-dispenser-5-madeline-muzzi-5e82eb2e39744f539c5a959fa10ce63d.jpeg) ### Key Specs - Capacity: 27 cups - Dimensions: 14\.37 x 5.67 x 10.47 inches - Replacement filter cost \$15 - Filter capacity: 40 gallons - Certifications: Certified for the improvement of taste and odor under NSF/ANSI Standard 42 ## The Best Extra-Large Water Filter Dispenser [Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07CRSK5KX?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) [![Amazon Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser]() ![Amazon Pur Plus 30-Cup Dispenser](https://www.seriouseats.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=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) Credit: Amazon [\$43 \$27 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07CRSK5KX?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) [\$27 at Target](https://www.target.com/p/pur-ultimate-30-cup-dispenser-with-lead-reduction/-/A-53152142) [\$45 at Home Depot](https://www.homedepot.com/p/Plus-30-Cup-Water-Filter-Pitcher-Dispenser-DS1811Z/320032923) What we liked: The PUR PLUS dispenser delivers maximum capacity without taking up additional fridge space. Its slim body fits neatly onto shelves, leaving plenty of room for [storage containers](https://www.seriouseats.com/best-food-storage-containers-6750861) or other items to line up next to its straight sides. This was one of the only dishwasher-safe models—an easy solution for an occasional deep clean. The PUR PLUS offers affordable filter replacements with NFS certifications. What we didn’t like: This is one of the only models that requires completely removing the lid to refill the dispenser, which was slightly annoying but not a dealbreaker. - ![Pur 30-cup water dispenser on a marble countertop]() ![Pur 30-cup water dispenser on a marble countertop](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/FBZdPIemGu9KCHDxhhiavjoA_P8=/fit-in/1500x3000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/reszied-water-filter-pitchers-Pur-30-cup-madeline-muzzi-1-5bfa88bdaf9e433b818e5defb697d857.jpg) Credit: Serious Eats - ![a person dispensing water from the Pur dispenser]() ![a person dispensing water from the Pur dispenser](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/pIxeWOb3B6EYHptzHNqVvpUqxE8=/fit-in/1500x3000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/water-filter-pitchers-Pur-30-cup-madeline-muzzi-6-48eeb8bf92e24e458f5b9eeb71258292.jpg) Credit: Serious Eats - ![the pur dispenser next to the sink]() ![the pur dispenser next to the sink](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/kfI81npmNWy3u7c8gD8j2IZIMCs=/fit-in/1500x3000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/water-filter-pitchers-Pur-30-cup-madeline-muzzi-3-9f273959f84342989381e188697d9002.jpg) Credit: Serious Eats - ![Pur 30-cup water dispenser on a marble countertop]() ![Pur 30-cup water dispenser on a marble countertop](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/59OH0sokPGp36Xsl0fr-GzZ8m7c=/fit-in/200x3000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/reszied-water-filter-pitchers-Pur-30-cup-madeline-muzzi-1-5bfa88bdaf9e433b818e5defb697d857.jpg) - ![a person dispensing water from the Pur dispenser]() ![a person dispensing water from the Pur dispenser](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/dLIoK_7DBwRIJb8RVHfmaJM7IHw=/fit-in/200x3000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/water-filter-pitchers-Pur-30-cup-madeline-muzzi-6-48eeb8bf92e24e458f5b9eeb71258292.jpg) - ![the pur dispenser next to the sink]() ![the pur dispenser next to the sink](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/BWHxaSGac1jt9w1A37k1LkQI43o=/fit-in/200x3000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/water-filter-pitchers-Pur-30-cup-madeline-muzzi-3-9f273959f84342989381e188697d9002.jpg) ### Key Specs - Capacity: 30 cups - Dimensions: 15\.3 x 5.3 x 10.1 inches - Replacement filter cost \$25 for 3 - Filter capacity: 40 gallons - Certifications: NSF certified to reduce microplastics found in tap and bottled water. ## The Competition - [Brita Denali Water Pitcher With Elite Filter](https://www.brita.com/products/denali-pitcher-elite/): This was a solid pitcher with several certifications and space-saving straight sides. However, this model lost points because the lightweight plastic scratched easily. - [Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher With Elite Filter](https://www.walmart.com/ip/Brita-Large-10-Cup-Black-Tahoe-Water-Filter-Pitcher-with-1-Brita-Elite-Filter-Made-Without-BPA/1683904748?clickid=QKo3NSz%3ACxyNUjNVVhy4-XQEUkH3dEzxW3wFR80&irgwc=1&sourceid=imp_QKo3NSz%3ACxyNUjNVVhy4-XQEUkH3dEzxW3wFR80&veh=aff&wmlspartner=imp_392844&affiliates_ad_id=565706&campaign_id=9383&sharedid=65e74b309af1fd0b871b8f9c): This pitcher is made from brittle plastic and breaks easily. It arrived chipped and sustained additional scratches during the testing process. - [ZeroWater 10-Cup Ready-Pour 5-Stage Water Filter Pitcher](https://www.amazon.com/ZeroWater-Pitcher-Quality-BPA-Free-Certified/dp/B0073PZ6O0?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876): This pitcher performed well in the taste test, but its ridged design wasted space and complicated cleanup. - [Waterdrop 200-Gallon Long-Life Lucid 10-Cup Water Filter Pitcher](https://www.amazon.com/Waterdrop-200-Gallon-Long-Life-Replacement-Filtration/dp/B09JGB2ZYL?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876): I liked this model’s durable, scratch-resistant material. A slightly splashy pour and expensive filters kept it from claiming a top spot. - [AmazonBasics 10-Cup Water](https://www.amazon.com/Amazon-Basics-Pitcher-Included-Compatible/dp/B07YT18P21?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876). This lightweight, brittle pitcher imparted a faint plasticky taste to filtered water. - [Waterdrop Slim Water Filter Dispenser](https://www.amazon.com/Waterdrop-Dispenser-200-Gallon-Long-Life-Lifetime/dp/B09Q8HDVRZ?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) A solid device with a well-designed angled basin that dispenses every last drop of water, this model lost points because the plastic dispensing nozzle felt cheap and brittle. - [ZeroWater 22-Cup Water Filter Dispenser](https://www.amazon.com/ZeroWater-Ready-Read-5-Stage-Dispenser-Certified/dp/B0C1NTYF4Q?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876). During testing, water leaked around the edge of the filter and didn't pass through it. - [Pur 10-Cup Pitcher](https://www.pur.com/shop/pitchers/pur-10-cup-pitcher-walmart/): This model pours and filters nicely, but its bulbous design hogs space in the refrigerator compared to straight-sided alternatives. ## FAQs ### Are water filter pitchers the same as water purifiers? A water filter pitcher is a type of water purifier. That said the term "filter" is easier to quantify and regulate than "purify." Water can be cleaned by passing through physical filters or by other means, such as UV light. ### How does a water filter pitcher work? Water filter pitchers use gravity to pass tap water through a carbon filtration system that removes certain impurities. They’re typically built with a reservoir at the top, a filter, and a basin. Unfiltered water is poured into the reservoir, gravity pulls it through the filter, and it’s stored in the pitcher basin until it’s consumed. ### How can I find out what is in my tap water? The EPA requires that local water suppliers publish a [Consumer Confidence Report](https://ordspub.epa.gov/ords/safewater/f?p=136:102::::::) every year. Check your local report to learn about the minerals and contaminants found in public drinking water at treatment facilities. Water can sometimes pick up impurities after it leaves a facility if it passes through damaged or lead pipes. You can test your home tap with a [water quality kit](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B076DRBCBX/?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) to determine exactly what’s in your H2O. ### Which water filter pitcher removes the most contaminants like PFAS? A report from the [Minnesota Department of Health](https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/environment/hazardous/topics/pfashometreat.html#:~:text=If%20you%20have%20concerns%20about,regular%20maintenance%20to%20work%20properly.) shows that carbon filters, like those used in gravity-powered pitchers, can effectively reduce PFAs when used properly. Changing your filter frequently will ensure its efficacy. Compared to carbon filters, pressurized [reverse osmosis filters](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CHYLY9I?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) remove a greater percentage of contaminants. ### Do water pitchers or dispensers filter out bacteria? The majority of home water filter pitchers use activated carbon filters to remove contaminants. These filters remove dissolved solids and chlorine, but they have not been proven to remove bacteria or germs. Some evidence suggests that eliminating chlorine without removing bacteria creates an environment where the bacteria can breed easily. ### What's the best glass water filter pitcher? We didn't test glass water filters in this test. Because glass is breakable, they're not ideal for daily, frequent use. That said, some of our favorite filter pitchers, like the [LARQ PureVis,](https://www.amazon.com/LARQ-Pitcher-PureVis-Advanced-Filter/dp/B00CWY0CY6?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) are made from BPA-free plastic. ### What's the best faucet water filter? When we tested faucet-mounted water filters, we chose two winners: the [Brita Faucet Mount Water Filtration System](https://www.amazon.com/Brita-Filtration-Reminder-Reduces-Standard/dp/B004INTGKK?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) and the Culligan FM-25 Faucet-Mount Advanced Water Filtration System. You can read our [full review here](https://www.seriouseats.com/the-best-faucet-water-filters-7569426). ## Why We’re the Experts - [Madeline Muzzi](https://www.seriouseats.com/madeline-muzzi-5193669) is a writer, editor, and video producer. She has written many reviews for Serious Eats, including [wine decanters](https://www.seriouseats.com/best-wine-decanters-6889328), [mini mortar and pestles](https://www.seriouseats.com/best-mini-mortar-and-pestles-7167627), and [countertop ice makers](https://www.seriouseats.com/best-ice-makers-6833617). - For this review, Madeline tested 12 water filter pitchers and dispensers to find ones that were easy to use and third-party certified. [I Tested 22 Sets of Drinking Glasses—7 Made Even Water Look Good](https://www.seriouseats.com/best-drinking-glasses-7368442) Article Sources Serious Eats uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our [editorial process](https://www.seriouseats.com/about-us-5120006#toc-editorial-guidelines) to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. 1. 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Myrecipes Dialog ![]()
Readable Markdown	### Straight to the Point The best water filter pitcher is the [LifeStraw Home Water Filter Pitcher](https://www.amazon.com/LifeStraw-Home-Water-Filter-Pitcher/dp/B0BBSL6P2P?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876). It’s certified to remove lead, and its pleasing design will look right at home on the dinner table. We also like the [Brita UltraMax Large Water Dispenser](https://www.amazon.com/Brita-UltraMax-Filtered-Water-Dispenser/dp/B09WBX1WKC?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) that holds up to 27 cups of water. It might surprise non-residents to learn that New York City, a place with an officially appointed rat czar, is blessed with pristine drinking water. It flows in from the Catskills/Delaware system and arrives with a neutral taste and a silky smooth texture—my local consumer confidence report boasts that it’s “the Champagne of tap water.1” Unfortunately, the quality of the water source isn’t the only factor that influences what ends up in your glass. Water has to travel through pipes and may be stored in reservoirs before it reaches your home. Enter the water filter pitcher: an easy way to make sure each cup of water you sip is palatable. If you have a full household that drinks a lot of water, you might prefer a filtered dispenser model with a large capacity. Pitchers hold less water but are better suited for placing on the table during meals. I tested 12 at-home water filter pitchers and dispensers to find ones that poured water smoothly. ## The Tests An unbiased taste test of water helped us determine which pitcher filters were best. Serious Eats - Flow Rate Test: I calculated the flow rate of each pitcher and dispenser by timing how long it took to pour out four cups of water. - Fridge Fit Test: I placed each pitcher/dispenser in the fridge, noting how difficult they were to transport and how much storage space they required. - Filtration Blind Taste Test: I conducted a blind taste test to assess the impact of filtration on water flavor. With the help of a friend, I compared the taste profile of the filtered water from each pitcher/dispenser to tap water and bottled water, noting any differences. - Usability and Cleaning Tests: I used each device to pour one cup of water into two [glasses](https://www.seriouseats.com/best-drinking-glasses-7368442), noting any splashes or difficulties. After testing, I cleaned each device according to the manufacturer's instructions, checking for any chips or scratches. ## What We Learned ### Look for Certifications Look for pitchers with filters that have been third-party certified for quality and purity. Serious Eats If you’re concerned about water quality, checking your local consumer water supply report is a good place to start. The Environmental Protection Agency requires that water suppliers publish an annual [Consumer Confidence Report.](https://ordspub.epa.gov/ords/safewater/f?p=136:102::::::) You can also use a home kit to test your tap water for lead or other contaminants; many cities provide these kits for assessing water quality for free. There are two main reasons to filter your tap water: to remove contaminants or to improve the taste (which [some coffee aficionados](https://www.seriouseats.com/make-better-pourover-coffee-how-pourover-works-temperature-timing) will tell you makes a real difference when brewing your morning cuppa). Understanding your goal will help you make the best decision when purchasing a water filtration system. If you’re concerned about specific contaminants, you’ll need a filter certified to remove them. You have more options if you’re simply hoping to improve the taste. The LifeStraw pitcher meets the National Sanitation Foundation standards for filtering PFOA and PFOS. Serious Eats Not all filters are the same, though, and some may capture certain contaminants better than others. If you’re concerned about a specific element, such as lead, look for a pitcher that has been independently tested and certified for lead removal by a trusted agency. The New York State Department of Health recommends the [NSF](http://www.nsf.org/consumer-resources/health-and-safety-tips/water-quality-treatment-tips/), [UL](https://ul.com/code-authorities/environmental-and-public-health/drinking-water/), and [Water Quality Association](https://wqa.org/) as trusted certifying bodies. ### How do water filters work? All of the pitchers and dispensers filter water by passing it from a reservoir at the top of the device through a filter and into a basin. (These are called gravity models.) This pitcher style typically uses activated carbon (charcoal) filters that attract chemicals. Carbon filters effectively remove certain elements, such as chlorine, but they cannot remove bacteria. Chlorine, which is commonly added to tap water to kill germs, is often the culprit behind unpleasant flavors. Activated charcoal filters can remove this chemical and help improve the water’s taste. Gravity filters are generally less powerful than pressurized reverse osmosis systems (which are installed under the sink). ### Dispensers and Pitchers Should Be Easy to Refill The best water filter pitchers can be refilled without removing their lids. Serious Eats Water filter pitchers and dispensers see a decent amount of action. They need to be filled, refilled, plopped in the fridge, and repeatedly handled. The right design elements make these otherwise tedious tasks easier. My favorite pitchers and dispensers, namely the [Brita UltraMax](https://www.amazon.com/Brita-UltraMax-Filtered-Water-Dispenser/dp/B09WBX1WKC?th=1&tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) and [LifeStraw](https://www.amazon.com/LifeStraw-Home-Water-Filter-Pitcher/dp/B0BBSL6P2P?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876), can be filled from the sink without removing the lid; instead, they have a slide top that stays open for hands-free filling. Other models, including the [LARQ 8-Cup Water Filter Pitcher](https://www.amazon.com/LARQ-Filtered-Drinking-Chlorine-Standards/dp/B0CPFSST74?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) and the [Waterdrop Lucid 10-Cup](https://www.amazon.com/Waterdrop-200-Gallon-Long-Life-Replacement-Filtration/dp/B09JGB2ZYL?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876), featured trapdoor-style portals that open under the weight of running water. Although they were easy to use, they required running water over the exterior of the pitcher, which can be a little splashy and may not be sanitary. The [PUR PLUS 30-Cup Water Filter Dispenser](https://www.amazon.com/PUR-Dispenser-Capacity-Filtration-Dishwasher/dp/B0C7FL37MG?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) and [AmazonBasics 10-Cup Water Pitcher](https://www.amazon.com/Amazon-Basics-Pitcher-Included-Compatible/dp/B07YT18P21?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) require you to remove the entire lid each time you refill. Material quality also affects the refilling process. Brittle plastic models like the [Brita Denali Water Pitcher With Elite Filter](https://www.brita.com/products/denali-pitcher-elite/) and the [Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher With Elite Filter](https://www.walmart.com/ip/Brita-Large-10-Cup-Black-Tahoe-Water-Filter-Pitcher-with-1-Brita-Elite-Filter-Made-Without-BPA/1683904748) chipped and scratched easily when handled. ### Straight Sides Made Storage Easy Water filter dispensers with straight sides and right angles were easiest to store. Serious Eats The majority of pitchers and dispensers that I tested featured straight walls that fit nicely on a refrigerator shelf next to other items. The [Pur 10-Cup Pitcher](https://www.pur.com/shop/pitchers/pur-10-cup-pitcher-walmart/) was a notable exception—this large, cylindrical pitcher took up more than its fair share of fridge space. The [ZeroWater 10-Cup Ready-Pour 5-Stage Water Filter Pitcher](https://www.amazon.com/ZeroWater-Pitcher-Quality-BPA-Free-Certified/dp/B0073PZ6O0?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) also presented some storage challenges. Although it’s narrow, its ridges and overhangs increased its overall footprint without increasing capacity. In general, the dispenser models made good use of space—these slim, rectangular vessels use tall straight walls to offer maximum capacity, and it’s easy to stack products next to them. Admittedly, the Lifestraw, one of my favorites, is cylindrical. Even though it can’t tessellate neatly with cartons or containers, it has a small base and tall walls that maximize its storage capacity without hogging the shelf. ### Water Dispensers vs. Water Filter Pitchers Pitchers were faster pourers, but dispensers could be used one-handed. Serious Eats If you’re in a hurry, pitchers are the way to go. During the flow rate test, all of the pitcher models poured four cups of water much more quickly than the dispensers. Filter dispensers, on the other hand, provided an easier glass-filling experience. Pouring water from a pitcher is a two-handed process—one to hold the pitcher, one to stabilize the glass. Dispensers don’t need to be held (they’re designed to rest on refrigerator shelves). Except for the [Waterdrop Slim Water Filter Dispenser](https://www.amazon.com/Waterdrop-Dispenser-200-Gallon-Long-Life-Lifetime/dp/B09Q8HDVRZ?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876), all of the dispensers included tabs that could lock into place. This made it possible to fill a glass of water quickly with one hand. ## The Criteria: What to Look for in a Water Filter Pitcher or Dispenser Serious Eats The best water filtration devices are made from durable materials and use independently certified filters. Consider your household hydration needs and look for a pitcher that holds enough water to last a few days. For easy access, choose a model that can be refilled without removing the lid. I also preferred pitchers and dispensers that were quick to pour from. ## Our Favorite Water Filter Pitchers and Dispensers What we liked: The LifeStraw carbon filter boasts a variety of independent certifications from NSF, as well as WQA and ANSI-accredited laboratories. It’s proven to remove lead, mercury, and chlorine to improve water safety and flavor. The LifeStraw is equipped with two filters—a carbon filter and a membrane microfilter—giving it the power to remove bacteria as well as dissolved solids. This pitcher has a tight-fitting lid and pours water smoothly. It can be refilled through a flap without removing the top. This elegant pitcher doubles as a lovely way to present water on the table. It’s available in several colors and materials, including a glass model. What we didn’t like: This tall pitcher may be difficult to fit on smaller refrigerator shelves. The dark plastic body sustained a few visible scratches during testing. - ![the lifestraw water filter pitchers on a marble countertop](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/tsSjqgS_-dKz7ONr-xCmzY01Y1s=/fit-in/1500x1000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/sea-water-filter-pitchers-lifestraw-home-2-madeline-muzzi-e9677e6a7bd74b90bf85245c8424de6e.jpeg) Credit: Serious Eats - ![filling the lifestraw pitcher](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/g2w73cLEF5dWNAEwXmjJHJuejVw=/fit-in/1500x1000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/sea-water-filter-pitchers-lifestraw-home-3-madeline-muzzi-6667f095605d44fb8750e7a011bdcda6.jpeg) Credit: Serious Eats - ![pouring water out of the lifestraw pitcher](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/AHPfRCgYTNGjzQGvi2vcOFqy500=/fit-in/1500x1000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/sea-water-filter-pitchers-lifestraw-home-1-madeline-muzzi-151e9087fcdf421c853bfb3f23fd4c10.jpeg) Credit: Serious Eats - ![the lifestraw water filter pitchers on a marble countertop](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/6HJ1J_wMD_kC4N-hNgkGN7StOMY=/fit-in/200x1000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/sea-water-filter-pitchers-lifestraw-home-2-madeline-muzzi-e9677e6a7bd74b90bf85245c8424de6e.jpeg) - ![filling the lifestraw pitcher](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/ZyL-2rVGmanpEOoxLfuTtcsaYAY=/fit-in/200x1000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/sea-water-filter-pitchers-lifestraw-home-3-madeline-muzzi-6667f095605d44fb8750e7a011bdcda6.jpeg) - ![pouring water out of the lifestraw pitcher](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/IYVVL-6WlTxsNS6Nw8Y3Dbctgug=/fit-in/200x1000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/sea-water-filter-pitchers-lifestraw-home-1-madeline-muzzi-151e9087fcdf421c853bfb3f23fd4c10.jpeg) ### Key Specs - Capacity: 7 cups - Dimensions: 6\.44 x 14.44 x 9.44 inches - Replacement filter cost: \$14 - Filter capacity: 40 gallons - Certifications: Meets US EPA & NSF P231 drinking water standards for the removal of bacteria and parasites What we liked: The LARQ pitcher’s straight sides and rounded edges stack neatly against other items in the fridge. This model is designed with an open handle that is easy to grab and hold for transportation or pouring. The plastic body resisted scratching during testing and feels unlikely to chip. What we didn’t like: With a subscription price of \$26 (\$33 without a subscription), these were the most expensive replacement filters I tested. - ![larq water pitcher on marble countertop](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/t94n0LCcBlc16naDcyqydbrlgqI=/fit-in/1500x3000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/resized-Larq-water-filter-pitcher-madeline-muzzi-843194f6c6bd4c249c9dc8a0c0a1e45f.jpg) Credit: Serious Eats - ![filling the larq pitcher](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/7g0lNmMYJ2Pj9wLkeV9yYpBCn6A=/fit-in/1500x3000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/larq-water-filter-pitcher-madeline-muzzi-02-cc5d7b4070284b3dae25340effa46ab6.jpg) Credit: Serious Eats - ![pouring water out of the larq pitcher](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/LCBRitqYKjOzvj4i-5wNjPV2Cfo=/fit-in/1500x3000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/larq-water-filter-pitcher-madeline-muzzi-03-c65424450d8a4a3fa01615967611f255.jpg) Credit: Serious Eats - ![larq water pitcher on marble countertop](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/d63LU0mYSW7xHc-okAvfLC25uS4=/fit-in/200x3000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/resized-Larq-water-filter-pitcher-madeline-muzzi-843194f6c6bd4c249c9dc8a0c0a1e45f.jpg) - ![filling the larq pitcher](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/GO-JR7rc7ppoPAbyIw4XwpMdNvw=/fit-in/200x3000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/larq-water-filter-pitcher-madeline-muzzi-02-cc5d7b4070284b3dae25340effa46ab6.jpg) - ![pouring water out of the larq pitcher](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/B7wY8mh3BXY6qmyFGkV9HAoOULk=/fit-in/200x3000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/larq-water-filter-pitcher-madeline-muzzi-03-c65424450d8a4a3fa01615967611f255.jpg) ### Key Specs - Capacity: 8 cups - Dimensions: 9 x 5.5 x 10 inches - Replacement filter cost \$26 with a subscription, \$33 standard - Filter capacity: 60 gallons - Certifications: Certified for the improvement of taste and odor under NSF/ANSI standards 42, 53, and 401 What we liked: The Brita UltraMax holds up to 27 cups of water—enough to hydrate the whole family. Built-in handles and a hinged top make refilling easier. This dispenser’s narrow design and smooth, straight sides streamline storage and simplify cleanup. The dispenser tap was easy to use and can click into place for hands-free dispensing. I did not observe any unwelcoming dripping from the spigot during testing. What we didn’t like: The dispenser nozzle is a little short—the entire device needs to be very close to the edge of a shelf to accommodate a glass. The plastic body is slightly brittle and may chip over time. - ![brita dispenser on marble surface](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/E9N58QKJsfoZ6ZMWB82lNzpqLok=/fit-in/1500x3000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/resized-water-filter-pitchers-Brita-UltraMax-Large-Water-Dispenser-madeline-muzzi-1-3235d4a423ee45a7a86fa042d65408e3.jpg) Credit: Serious Eats - ![filling the brita dispenser](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/4LvMP_WpSF5q_cCXF6nDi10xzQU=/fit-in/1500x3000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/water-filter-pitchers-Brita-UltraMax-Large-Water-Dispenser-madeline-muzzi-3-0ea6fef0c9e34cc584bc5cfe443df5b3.jpg) Credit: Serious Eats - ![a water dispenser next to a few bottles of wine in the fridge](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/wf3593Lbrlm04Ha3bFYLB7GJb8E=/fit-in/1500x1000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/sea-water-filter-pitchers-brita-ultramax-large-dispenser-5-madeline-muzzi-5e82eb2e39744f539c5a959fa10ce63d.jpeg) Credit: Serious Eats - ![brita dispenser on marble surface](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/k20O0dTNhq027wIadQH9hKsT_QE=/fit-in/200x3000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/resized-water-filter-pitchers-Brita-UltraMax-Large-Water-Dispenser-madeline-muzzi-1-3235d4a423ee45a7a86fa042d65408e3.jpg) - ![filling the brita dispenser](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/louK8PUC8KqHz9iRDMU5TGf90e4=/fit-in/200x3000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/water-filter-pitchers-Brita-UltraMax-Large-Water-Dispenser-madeline-muzzi-3-0ea6fef0c9e34cc584bc5cfe443df5b3.jpg) - ![a water dispenser next to a few bottles of wine in the fridge](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/bMhrUnR2-9iU9T0j_l5WIlDgeGM=/fit-in/200x1000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/sea-water-filter-pitchers-brita-ultramax-large-dispenser-5-madeline-muzzi-5e82eb2e39744f539c5a959fa10ce63d.jpeg) ### Key Specs - Capacity: 27 cups - Dimensions: 14\.37 x 5.67 x 10.47 inches - Replacement filter cost \$15 - Filter capacity: 40 gallons - Certifications: Certified for the improvement of taste and odor under NSF/ANSI Standard 42 What we liked: The PUR PLUS dispenser delivers maximum capacity without taking up additional fridge space. Its slim body fits neatly onto shelves, leaving plenty of room for [storage containers](https://www.seriouseats.com/best-food-storage-containers-6750861) or other items to line up next to its straight sides. This was one of the only dishwasher-safe models—an easy solution for an occasional deep clean. The PUR PLUS offers affordable filter replacements with NFS certifications. What we didn’t like: This is one of the only models that requires completely removing the lid to refill the dispenser, which was slightly annoying but not a dealbreaker. - ![Pur 30-cup water dispenser on a marble countertop](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/FBZdPIemGu9KCHDxhhiavjoA_P8=/fit-in/1500x3000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/reszied-water-filter-pitchers-Pur-30-cup-madeline-muzzi-1-5bfa88bdaf9e433b818e5defb697d857.jpg) Credit: Serious Eats - ![a person dispensing water from the Pur dispenser](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/pIxeWOb3B6EYHptzHNqVvpUqxE8=/fit-in/1500x3000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/water-filter-pitchers-Pur-30-cup-madeline-muzzi-6-48eeb8bf92e24e458f5b9eeb71258292.jpg) Credit: Serious Eats - ![the pur dispenser next to the sink](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/kfI81npmNWy3u7c8gD8j2IZIMCs=/fit-in/1500x3000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/water-filter-pitchers-Pur-30-cup-madeline-muzzi-3-9f273959f84342989381e188697d9002.jpg) Credit: Serious Eats - ![Pur 30-cup water dispenser on a marble countertop](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/59OH0sokPGp36Xsl0fr-GzZ8m7c=/fit-in/200x3000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/reszied-water-filter-pitchers-Pur-30-cup-madeline-muzzi-1-5bfa88bdaf9e433b818e5defb697d857.jpg) - ![a person dispensing water from the Pur dispenser](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/dLIoK_7DBwRIJb8RVHfmaJM7IHw=/fit-in/200x3000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/water-filter-pitchers-Pur-30-cup-madeline-muzzi-6-48eeb8bf92e24e458f5b9eeb71258292.jpg) - ![the pur dispenser next to the sink](https://www.seriouseats.com/thmb/BWHxaSGac1jt9w1A37k1LkQI43o=/fit-in/200x3000/filters:no_upscale:max_bytes$150000$:strip_icc/water-filter-pitchers-Pur-30-cup-madeline-muzzi-3-9f273959f84342989381e188697d9002.jpg) ### Key Specs - Capacity: 30 cups - Dimensions: 15\.3 x 5.3 x 10.1 inches - Replacement filter cost \$25 for 3 - Filter capacity: 40 gallons - Certifications: NSF certified to reduce microplastics found in tap and bottled water. ## The Competition - [Brita Denali Water Pitcher With Elite Filter](https://www.brita.com/products/denali-pitcher-elite/): This was a solid pitcher with several certifications and space-saving straight sides. However, this model lost points because the lightweight plastic scratched easily. - [Brita Tahoe Water Pitcher With Elite Filter](https://www.walmart.com/ip/Brita-Large-10-Cup-Black-Tahoe-Water-Filter-Pitcher-with-1-Brita-Elite-Filter-Made-Without-BPA/1683904748?clickid=QKo3NSz%3ACxyNUjNVVhy4-XQEUkH3dEzxW3wFR80&irgwc=1&sourceid=imp_QKo3NSz%3ACxyNUjNVVhy4-XQEUkH3dEzxW3wFR80&veh=aff&wmlspartner=imp_392844&affiliates_ad_id=565706&campaign_id=9383&sharedid=65e74b309af1fd0b871b8f9c): This pitcher is made from brittle plastic and breaks easily. It arrived chipped and sustained additional scratches during the testing process. - [ZeroWater 10-Cup Ready-Pour 5-Stage Water Filter Pitcher](https://www.amazon.com/ZeroWater-Pitcher-Quality-BPA-Free-Certified/dp/B0073PZ6O0?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876): This pitcher performed well in the taste test, but its ridged design wasted space and complicated cleanup. - [Waterdrop 200-Gallon Long-Life Lucid 10-Cup Water Filter Pitcher](https://www.amazon.com/Waterdrop-200-Gallon-Long-Life-Replacement-Filtration/dp/B09JGB2ZYL?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876): I liked this model’s durable, scratch-resistant material. A slightly splashy pour and expensive filters kept it from claiming a top spot. - [AmazonBasics 10-Cup Water](https://www.amazon.com/Amazon-Basics-Pitcher-Included-Compatible/dp/B07YT18P21?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876). This lightweight, brittle pitcher imparted a faint plasticky taste to filtered water. - [Waterdrop Slim Water Filter Dispenser](https://www.amazon.com/Waterdrop-Dispenser-200-Gallon-Long-Life-Lifetime/dp/B09Q8HDVRZ?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) A solid device with a well-designed angled basin that dispenses every last drop of water, this model lost points because the plastic dispensing nozzle felt cheap and brittle. - [ZeroWater 22-Cup Water Filter Dispenser](https://www.amazon.com/ZeroWater-Ready-Read-5-Stage-Dispenser-Certified/dp/B0C1NTYF4Q?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876). During testing, water leaked around the edge of the filter and didn't pass through it. - [Pur 10-Cup Pitcher](https://www.pur.com/shop/pitchers/pur-10-cup-pitcher-walmart/): This model pours and filters nicely, but its bulbous design hogs space in the refrigerator compared to straight-sided alternatives. ## FAQs ### Are water filter pitchers the same as water purifiers? A water filter pitcher is a type of water purifier. That said the term "filter" is easier to quantify and regulate than "purify." Water can be cleaned by passing through physical filters or by other means, such as UV light. ### How does a water filter pitcher work? Water filter pitchers use gravity to pass tap water through a carbon filtration system that removes certain impurities. They’re typically built with a reservoir at the top, a filter, and a basin. Unfiltered water is poured into the reservoir, gravity pulls it through the filter, and it’s stored in the pitcher basin until it’s consumed. ### How can I find out what is in my tap water? The EPA requires that local water suppliers publish a [Consumer Confidence Report](https://ordspub.epa.gov/ords/safewater/f?p=136:102::::::) every year. Check your local report to learn about the minerals and contaminants found in public drinking water at treatment facilities. Water can sometimes pick up impurities after it leaves a facility if it passes through damaged or lead pipes. You can test your home tap with a [water quality kit](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B076DRBCBX/?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) to determine exactly what’s in your H2O. ### Which water filter pitcher removes the most contaminants like PFAS? A report from the [Minnesota Department of Health](https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/environment/hazardous/topics/pfashometreat.html#:~:text=If%20you%20have%20concerns%20about,regular%20maintenance%20to%20work%20properly.) shows that carbon filters, like those used in gravity-powered pitchers, can effectively reduce PFAs when used properly. Changing your filter frequently will ensure its efficacy. Compared to carbon filters, pressurized [reverse osmosis filters](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CHYLY9I?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) remove a greater percentage of contaminants. ### Do water pitchers or dispensers filter out bacteria? The majority of home water filter pitchers use activated carbon filters to remove contaminants. These filters remove dissolved solids and chlorine, but they have not been proven to remove bacteria or germs. Some evidence suggests that eliminating chlorine without removing bacteria creates an environment where the bacteria can breed easily. ### What's the best glass water filter pitcher? We didn't test glass water filters in this test. Because glass is breakable, they're not ideal for daily, frequent use. That said, some of our favorite filter pitchers, like the [LARQ PureVis,](https://www.amazon.com/LARQ-Pitcher-PureVis-Advanced-Filter/dp/B00CWY0CY6?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) are made from BPA-free plastic. ### What's the best faucet water filter? When we tested faucet-mounted water filters, we chose two winners: the [Brita Faucet Mount Water Filtration System](https://www.amazon.com/Brita-Filtration-Reminder-Reduces-Standard/dp/B004INTGKK?tag=seriouseats-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=6749876) and the Culligan FM-25 Faucet-Mount Advanced Water Filtration System. You can read our [full review here](https://www.seriouseats.com/the-best-faucet-water-filters-7569426). ## Why We’re the Experts - [Madeline Muzzi](https://www.seriouseats.com/madeline-muzzi-5193669) is a writer, editor, and video producer. She has written many reviews for Serious Eats, including [wine decanters](https://www.seriouseats.com/best-wine-decanters-6889328), [mini mortar and pestles](https://www.seriouseats.com/best-mini-mortar-and-pestles-7167627), and [countertop ice makers](https://www.seriouseats.com/best-ice-makers-6833617). - For this review, Madeline tested 12 water filter pitchers and dispensers to find ones that were easy to use and third-party certified.
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