10 Best Under Sink Water Filter Picks | Reviews & Recommendations

Your search for a quality under the sink water filter is over!

Check out our reviews of the top best under sink water filter models for every budget!

best-under-sink-water-filter-reviews-title

An under sink water filter is a great option for many people, because they are of great value, effective, and remain hidden from sight.

In today’s post, we review 7 of the best under sink water filter systems available on the market right now, while recommending you three more. We’ve chosen the models that represent the best option for every budget. Keep in mind that while it may boast some excellent water filtering abilities, an under sink water filter only purifies the water your drink from the tap, whereas whole house water filters clean the water coming from the pipes outside.

What You Need to Know about the Best Under Sink Water Filter Options of 2020

There’s a handy comparison table where you can compare the key features and more detailed reviews that give the low-down on the things that matter. At the end of this best under sink water filter system reviews guide, you will also find a short buying guide to help you pick the best make and model for your needs!

HOW DO THE TOP 7 UNDER SINK WATER FILTERS COMPARE?

​Compare the key features of these best under sink water filter models in the table below. The more detailed descriptions and all the reviews follow the table.

IMAGE PRODUCT DETAILS
is-wfa2-table__image Woder 10K-Gen II
  • Price: $$
  • Filter Stage: 1
  • Filter life: 10,000 gallons/3 years
  • Rating: 4.5
CHECK PRICE
is-wfa2-table__image OUR TOP PICKOUR TOP PICKAPEC WFS-1000
  • Price: $$
  • Filter Stage: 3
  • Filter life: 3,000gallons/12 months
  • Rating: 4.6
CHECK PRICE
is-wfa2-table__image iSpring CU-4-Stage
  • Price: $$
  • Filter Stage: 4
  • Filter life: 1 year
  • Rating: 4.3
CHECK PRICE
is-wfa2-table__image AMAZING VALUEAMAZING VALUECulligan US-EZ-1
  • Price: $
  • Filter Stage: 1
  • Filter life: 3000 gallons/12 months
  • Rating: 4.2
CHECK PRICE
is-wfa2-table__image Frizzlife
  • Price: $
  • Filter Stage: 1
  • Filter life: 10,000 gallons/3 years
  • Rating: 4.5
CHECK PRICE
is-wfa2-table__image AMAZING VALUEAMAZING VALUE3M Aqua-Pure Under Sink
  • Price: $$$
  • Filter Stage: 1
  • Filter life: 6,000 gallons/ 2 years
  • Rating: 4.3
CHECK PRICE
is-wfa2-table__image CuZn UC-200
  • Price: $$
  • Filter Stage: 3
  • Filter life: 50,000 gallons
  • Rating: 4.8
CHECK PRICE

BEST UNDER SINK WATER FILTER REVIEWS

Here’s where you can read about all the under the sink water filters that we recommend in a bit more detail. Find out which common water contaminants they remove, how long the filters last, and more.

apec-wfs-1000

APEC WFS-1000 3-Stage

Rating: 4.6
Price: $$
Key Features: 3 filter stages, long-life filters, 1-year satisfaction guarantee, lifetime support

APEC Water filters and products are well known for their fantastic reverse osmosis systems, and this under sink unit is another of real quality.

Unusual for an under-sink unit, it features three stages of filtration. This makes it a highly effective water filter that is capable of removing a wide range of harmful contaminants.

The filters last longer than reverse osmosis systems and allow an impressive water flow rate too. They should last around 12 months before needing to be replaced. Be aware that this figure will vary depending on how much they are used and also the quality of water they have to filter. Let’s take a closer look at what each of the three filter stages does.

  • Stage 1 – This is a 10″ polypropylene sediment filter. It gets rid of the larger particles like sand, sediment, rust, dust, and dirt.

  • Stage 2 – A 10″ carbon block filter. Carbon media is particularly effective at removing chlorine but also tackles VOCs.

  • Stage 3 – A further 10″ carbon block filter. This second carbon filter works to refine the taste, color, and odor of the water. It also acts as a final fine layer of filtration for common contaminants.

A great feature of these types of under sink filters is that they don’t remove any healthy minerals from the water. Minerals like magnesium, calcium, and potassium (which are good for our bodies) are removed from water by some methods of filtration, but not this one. Aside from being beneficial to our health, these minerals also make the water taste great too. The APEC WFS-1000 also uses two carbon filtration layers that help to refine the taste and odor of the water.

This system comes with an amazing one-year satisfaction guarantee, and also lifetime support from a team of WQA certified water specialists. An APEC product isn’t always the cheapest, but the manufacturer offers great support and builds quality.

What Else Should You Know about the APEC WFS-1000 Under Sink Water Filter?

  • Designed, engineered and assembled in the USA;
  • Premium long-lasting filters used to treat both city tap water and well water;
  • This under sink water filter system comes with a 100% Lead-Free chrome faucet plus an FDA-certified JG food grade tubing.

Bottom Line

As a water filter for city/municipal water supplies, this is a great option. It’s low maintenance, and really effective at filtering chlorinated water. It also makes a big difference in the taste of city water.

APEC WFS-1000 Super Capacity Premium Quality 3 Stage Under-Sink Water…

  • High quality, designed, engineered, and assembled in the USA system with…
  • Super capacity filters guaranteeing to remove chemicals, taste and…
  • Premium long-lasting filter used to treat tap water, well water….
Woder-10K-GenII

Woder 10K-Gen II

Rating: 4.5
Price: $$
Key Features: 3-year filter lifespan, really low maintenance, money-back satisfaction guarantee

The Woder 10K is a really popular water filter due to its simplicity, and also its effectiveness at treating common water contaminants like lead. The huge lifespan of the filter makes this unit extremely good value too.

It is really compact and takes up little room under the sink. It comes with everything you need for installation and requires no expert skills to install in very little time.

The simplicity that we mentioned comes from the fact that once installed, it can be left to work for itself for 10,00 gallons of use or around 3 years in time. That’s pretty incredible and we’re not aware of many water filters that are this low maintenance.

Woder states that it is capable of reducing up to 99.9% of chlorine, lead, and heavy metals from water. It has been independently tested to NSF/ANSI 42 standards which means it will effectively remove chlorine from water and improve the taste and odor. This means it is also structurally sound and is durable and long-lasting. Importantly, it doesn’t remove healthy minerals from the water, and you can be assured of clean, healthy faucet water.

The Woder 10K also comes with an amazing money-back satisfaction guarantee. This under sink water filter reviews really well on sites like Amazon too.

What Else Should You Know about the Woder WD-S-8K-DC Water Filtration System?

  • For the longest life, use this under sink water filter only with municipal treated cold water only, as it does not work with well water;
  • The filter eliminates lead (99.9%), heavy metals, chlorine (99.9%), chromium 6, mercury, volatile organic compounds, carcinogens, and other contaminants, as well as water turbidity, odors, and bad tastes;
  • The unit comes with ‘Direct Connect’ hoses that fit standard 3/8” water valves under U.S. kitchen and bathroom sinks.

Bottom Line

This under sink water filter gives amazing value for money due to the 3-year lifespan of the filter. It’s also about as low maintenance a water filter as you can get. It’s a great choice for city (treated) water.

You May Also Be Interested in the Woder WD-S-8K-DC Water Filtration System

Woder WD-S-8K-DC Water Filtration System – WQA Certified – USA Made…

  • ULTRA HIGH CAPACITY – LASTS FOR A MINIMUM OF 3 YEARS OR 8,480 GALLONS…
  • USA MADE – NO PLUMBING REQUIRED – Comes with ‘Direct Connect’…
  • WQA GOLD SEAL CERTIFIED to NSF/ANSI 42 for Chlorine, taste, odor and…
iSpring-CU-A4-4-Stage

iSpring CU-A4 4-Stage

Rating: 4.3
Price: $$$
Key Features: Effective water filtration, multiple installation options, easy change filters, 1-year money-back guarantee

Next on our list of best under sink water filter reviews is an iSpring product. As you probably know by now, iSpring makes some of the best reverse osmosis water filters on the market, also entering successfully the domain of whole house water filters.

The A4 combines four filtration methods into a powerful little package. It may be the most expensive of our best under sink water filter selections, but it’s also the most thorough in rejecting multiple contaminants. Let’s take a look at these 4 filter stages:

  • Stage 1: 5-micron sediment filter that rejects the larger particles like dirt, sand, and rust.

  • Stage 2: Ultrafiltration membrane. This layer has a rating of 0.1 microns (or 0.00001 cm). It rejects anything larger than this size from passing.

  • Stage 3: A hybrid layer of KDF and activated carbon. KDF is a really effective substance that can remove heavy metals like lead, mercury, arsenic, and iron. It will also remove pesticides. Activated carbon is really good at targeting chlorine.

  • Stage 4: Coconut shell activated carbon. This final stage enhances the taste and improves the color and odor of the water.

The 4 stages work together to create a pretty effective water protection unit, that comes second only to reverse osmosis. However, there are a few reasons to go with this over an RO unit:

1. It produces clean drinking water on demand.

2. It doesn’t waste any water in the filtration process.

3. It doesn’t use a bulky water storage tank.

The downside here is that 4 filters need replacing. This running cost must be considered. A year’s supply (5 filters) can be purchased in bulk, with the sediment filter needs to be changed every 6 months as opposed to yearly for the others. The actual filter change procedure is really easy and they just twist off and on.

What Else Should You Know about the iSpring CU-A4 4-Stage High Capacity Premium Under Sink Drinking Water System?

  • No storage water tank required and no wastewater to worry about;
  • It comes with a beautiful brushed nickel drinking water faucet;
  • The Twist On / Twist Off filter cartridges makes the changing filters a breeze.

Bottom Line

This iSpring model is the most expensive under sink water filter on our recommendations’ list and it requires the most filter changes. However, it’s also the most refined and effective.

You May Also Be Interested in the iSpring US31 3-Stage Under Sink High Capacity Tankless Drinking Water Filtration System

iSpring US31 3-Stage Under Sink High Capacity Tankless Drinking Water…

  • [High-efficiency filtration system]: The water flows through PP…
  • [Fresh Healthy Water Supplier]: The on-demand fast flow rate of the…
  • [Excellent Quality and Design]: Features beautiful European-designed…
3m-aqua-pure-3mff100

3M Aqua-Pure 3MFF100

Rating: 4.3
Price: $$$
Key Features: Powerful filtration, easy filter changes, long-life filter, low maintenance

This is one of the most expensive picks on our best under the sink water filter reviews, but it is also one of the most effective.

The 3MFF100 is NSF Standard 42 and 53 certified to reduce contaminants such as chlorine, lead, cysts, and VOCs. The filter is actually rated at 0.2 microns. This means that it will remove all particles larger than 0.2 microns in size.

This filter rating is better than most whole house water filters, and most other methods of filtration. It is only topped by reverse osmosis water filters.

However, there are some reasons to choose this over a reverse osmosis system:

  1. It doesn’t waste any water.
  2. The filter lasts for 2 years.
  3. It doesn’t remove healthy minerals from the water.

The filter is a combination of the pleated sub-micron filter and a carbon block. The carbon block is really effective at treating chlorine, and also improves the taste and odor of the water.

The filter media lasts for a massive 6,000 gallons or 2 years of use. The filter is then very easily replaced with the help of the built-in shut-off valve. This means you don’t have to shut-off and drain the whole water supply. The filter cartridges are easily twisted off to be replaced.

What Else Should You Know about the 3M Aqua-Pure Under Sink Full Flow Drinking Water Filter System?

  • The installation of this under sink water filter does not require a separate faucet or any holes to be drilled into your countertop;
  • The head assembly includes a built-in shut-off valve that allows for changing the SQC filters without shutting off the water supply;
  • Tested to reduce sediment, chlorine taste and odor, cysts, lead, and select VOCs.

Bottom Line

We love this under sink water filter. It’s a really effective unit and very low maintenance. I would recommend this for city water supplies only. It might clog up quickly with dirty well water supplies. As far as effectiveness in reducing a wide range of water contaminants goes, this is one of the best under counter water filters.

3M Aqua-Pure Under Sink Full Flow Drinking Water Filter System…

  • Cleaner water: Reduces particulate, chlorine taste and odor, lead,…
  • Full flow: Designed to flow at the rate of your faucet, up to 2.5…
  • Easy to install: Easier to install than dedicated faucet under counter…
3m-aqua-pure-3mff100

CuZn UC-200 50K

Rating: 4.8
Price: $$
Key Features: Huge filter lifespan, 3-stage filtration, very low maintenance, great value

This system from CuZn Water Systems is unique because of how long the filter lasts. Many brands boast of long-lasting filters, but none match the enormous 50,000 gallons or 5 years of use that this system offers. Considering the cost of the unit, that’s quite a remarkable achievement.

The three-stage filter contains three different methods of water filtration to give a well-rounded performance. It’s able to target a wide range of contaminants because of this. Let’s take a closer look at how it filters the water.

  • Stage 1: A micro sediment membrane. This stage removes the larger particles from the water. Things like dirt, rust, sediment, and sand are removed.

  • Stage 2: A layer of KDF-55. This material is especially good at removing chlorine, heavy metals (like lead and mercury), and bacteria from water.

  • Stage 3: A layer of coconut shell carbon media. This layer refines the taste and odor of the water. It also removes chlorine, herbicides, and pesticides.

The installation is really simple and takes a matter of minutes rather than hours. Once installed, the system is pretty much maintenance free for its life cycle. A bonus with this system, when compared to some other water filter systems, is that it doesn’t require a new faucet. It connects directly to the waterline.

Bottom Line: This system is really hard to beat for value. The filter lifespan is exceptional, and the 3-stage filter media is really effective too.

CuZn UC-200 Under Counter Water Filter – 50K Ultra High Capacity -…

  • INCREDIBLE CAPACITY/LIFETIME: 50,000g or 5 years! CuZn Backs The…
  • NO THIRD FAUCET HASSLE & SIMPLE TO INSTALL: Connects Directly to your…
  • 3 STAGE FILTRATION PROCESS: Micro Sediment Membranes, KDF-55 & Coconut…
Nahla Pure Premium Under Sink Direct Connect Inline Filter

Nahla Pure

Rating: 4.5
Price: $
Key Features: Great value, effective at removing chlorine

This model from Nahla Pure is one of the cheaper systems that we have included.

It uses activated carbon media to provide a good level of chlorine filtration. The filter has really long lifespan of 3 years, which when combined with the fact that the unit is relatively cheap, makes this a really attractive purchase.

It is connected directly inline and therefore doesn’t require a new faucet. The fittings connect to the standard 3/8″ cold water line.

It is suited to city water only and treats chlorinated water.

It comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee and is very well regarded by customers on sites like Amazon.

What Else Should You Know about the Nahla Pure Ultra High Capacity Premium Under Sink Water Filter?

  • This under the sink wall mounted filter system frees space from your fridge and counter;
  • Made in the U.S.A and great supporters of the Water School U.S.A. project;
  • The Nahla Pure’s DC Sink Filter MAX removes 99.99% of all contaminants – volatile organic compounds (VOCs), chlorine, lead, and other heavy metals, bad odor, and taste.

Bottom Line

If you seek a low price solution to chlorine in your drinking water then you won’t do much better.

You May Also Be Interested in the Frizzlife Under Sink Water Filter System

Frizzlife Under Sink Water Filter System-High Capacity Direct Connect…

  • TWO-STAGE ADVANCED WATER PURIFIER WITH 0.5 MICRON: The Frizzlife MK99…
  • FITS BOTH 1/2″ AND 3/8″ COLD WATER LINE: Super EASY Installation. Come…
  • BEST AUTO SHUT OFF DESIGN: Utilizing quick-change twist-in…
3m-aqua-pure-3mff100

Culligan US-EZ-1

Rating: 4.2
Price: $
Key Features: NSF certified, amazing value, great for chlorine reduction

This is the cheapest of the under-sink units that we have included in our top 6. But don’t be fooled into thinking it’s not an effective system, because it is.

The filter cartridge is carbon-based and therefore is particularly effective at removing chlorine. It is actually NSF certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 42 for chlorine reduction. The filter cartridge lasts for around 12 months, which is a really good return for such a well-priced unit. The cartridges themselves are also very competitively priced.

The filter changes are really easily done and are just a matter of twisting and pulling. There’s even a water shut-off valve included. It’s very easily installed too and comes with quick-connect fittings.

What Else Should You Know about the Culligan US 1 EZ-Change Under-Sink Drinking Water Filtration System?

  • It is compatible with Culligan RC-EZ-1, RC-EZ-3, and RC-EZ-4 replacement cartridges;
  • The quick-connect fittings with twist-on/off function make installation and maintenance a walk in the park;
  • Two-year limited warranty.

Bottom Line

As you know, Culligan makes some of the best inline water filters on the market and also some of the best water softeners available today. This product does not fall far from the family tree either and few other under-sink water filters can beat this model on value and ease of installation.

Culligan US 1 EZ-Change Undersink Drinking Water Filtration System…

  • Undersink water filtration system that includes a dedicated faucet…
  • EZ change replacement filter cartridge with quick-connect fittings,…
  • The included RC-EZ-1 filter cartridge reduces particulates class III,…

Before You Buy the Best Under-Sink Water Filter on the Market: Checklist

Even though these water filters are all labeled as being “under sink” systems, they go about their jobs in different ways. Take a look at the key features that you should be looking at in our buyer’s guide.

  • Water Flow Rate

In doing their job, water filter systems restrict the water flow. Some affect the water flow much more than others, so it’s important that you check out the water flow rate before you buy it. Something like the Woder model that we reviewed above has a flow rate of 5 gallons per minute, which is more than enough for a kitchen sink. However, not all models are as generous as this.

The best under sink water filtration systems will offer a generous water flow rate.

  • Contaminant Reduction

Not all water filters were created equally, and some are more effective at removing harmful water contaminants than others.

Most under sink water filters contain some form of carbon media. This makes them especially good at removing chlorine. However, the best under sink water filter systems use more than one stage of filtration and combine carbon with another kind of filter media. These multi-stage water filters remove a larger number of contaminants. But, the filters that they use tend to be more expensive.

drinking-water

Look out for water filter certification to (NSF and WQA) to see just how effective a system is.

Our under sink water filter reviews detail which contaminants that a unit will protect against.

  • Installation

The installation of these under-sink models tends to be pretty straight forward, but it’s considerably easier depending on which type you choose.

There are two types of under sink water filter. Those that are installed directly in-line and use your current faucet, and those that require a new faucet to be installed. Those that don’t require a faucet are easier to install.

Some units are so easy to install that they just require a wrench to tighten the fixings.

  • Size

Not all of these models are as small as they might look. Make sure you check out the dimensions, and ensure you have enough space to accommodate it. Some will require mounting with brackets too.

  • Filter Cost and Lifespan

This is a big consideration as it decides how much money you spend over the life of the water filter system. The initial cost of the water filter system is just a fraction of what you pay in the long term. Since you have to consider the initial cost and both the cost and the lifespan of the filer, I find working out a 10-year cost estimation works really well when pricing a system.

  • ​Example

Water filter A costs $50 and uses filters that cost $20 and need to be replaced every 6 months. Over 10 years this costs $450.

Water filter B costs $150 and uses filters that cost $100 but last 3 years. Over 10 years this costs $450.

Despite costing much more and having much more expensive filters, water filter B costs around the same over the course of its life. The example shows that cheaper systems don’t always work out as being the cheapest in the long term. Cheaper units tend to use filters that don’t last as long, which can impact the long term running cost.

  • Certification

The NSF and WQA offer certification to water filters that meet certain standards of effectiveness. Look out for these certificates when choosing a system for your home. Models that have NSF or WQA certification have been proven to remove contaminants to exactly the level they claim. Furthermore, the components used and the build quality of the water filter will be first class.

The best under counter water filters will be certified by the WQA or NSF. Check out our under counter water filter reviews to see which models feature certification.

Why Get an Under Sink Water Filter?

There are so many different types of water filters available, and it’s really important that you make the right choice. There are whole-house water filter systems that filter both the drinking water and bathing water, pitcher filters that are cheap and need to be filled, and many, many other types.

An under sink water filter can be the right choice for a variety of reasons. Let’s look at those reasons, and see if it’s the right choice for your home.

1. They’re installed under the kitchen sink

There are two reasons why this is a positive characteristic of these types of filters.

Firstly, it saves valuable counter space in the kitchen. If you have a small kitchen or don’t have much counter space to devote to a water filter, then an under-sink unit is the perfect fit for your home.

The second reason is that water filters can be quite unsightly devices. They’re designed to be effective and not to look attractive. Having it installed under the sink, keeps it out of sight.

2.  They are very low maintenance

Under-sink units require the least frequent filter changes that we have encountered. In our reviews, the Culligan US 1 EZ requires a filter change once a year. The CuZn UC-200 system doesn’t need a filter change for 5 years. Compare this with most other water filtration methods needing filter changes every 6 months.

3. They can feature multi-stage filters

This doesn’t apply to all systems, but some units offer up to 3-stages of water filtration. This makes them particularly effective at removing a wide range of harmful contaminants from water.

4. They can allow a strong water flow rate

A negative aspect of some water filters is that they can throttle the water pressure. Under-sink units tend to avoid this, and allow a pretty good water flow rate at the kitchen faucet. Always check the water flow rate of a system before you buy it.

5. They offer a really good value

Initially, they’re not as cheap as pitcher, faucet, or countertop filters, but in the long-term, they offer very reasonable running costs. As they don’t require filter changes for such long periods of time, you don’t have to buy as many filters. This makes them one of the cheaper types of water filters to run over a long period of time.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Under Sink Water Filters

​If you have still not made up your mind if an under sink water filter system is right for you, then take a look at the pros and cons to getting a balanced view.

Advantages

  • They’re installed out of sight.

  • ​They save precious counter space.

  • ​The filters last a really long time.

  • ​They’re particularly good at removing chlorine.

  • ​Multi-stage filters can target large numbers of contaminants.

  • ​They don’t remove healthy minerals from the water.

  • ​They provide great tasting water.

Disadvantages

  • ​Some models require you to use their faucet.

  • ​This method of water filtration wouldn’t be my first choice for well water supplies (great for city water though).

That brings us to the end of our post including the best under sink water filter system reviews of the year. We’re pretty happy with the models that we’ve chosen, but we’d love to hear of any models that we’ve missed.

If you’re still unsure about which type of water filter you need then check out the rest of our guides on how to size a water filter for your home and how to choose the best whole house water filter!

Best Under Sink Water Filters: FAQs

Before we conclude this guide, let’s answer some of the most frequently asked questions regarding the best under sink water filters on the market!

Are under sink water filters worth it?

Under sink water filters are worth it because they bring the best of multiple worlds: they are compact and small – unlike some whole house water filters. They employ the latest water filtration technologies (reverse osmosis included), and they are more affordable than most other water filter systems on the market. Moreover, they do a wonderful job of cleaning your water from impurities and contaminants.

How long do under sink water filters last?

Under-sink water filters’ lifespan ranges from 1,000 gallons to 50,000 gallons. All you have to do is pick the product that best serves your needs.

What is the best under the sink water filtration system?

As you can see from our reviews above, we favor the iSpring under sink water filter models, the Culligan models, and many other units that pass their tests with flying colors. However, before you buy a product just because the company making it is famous, don’t forget to check out its tech specs and features!

Bottom Line

As ever, if you have any questions then drop us a line and we’ll help in any way we can.

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Hi I'm Jamie, teacher and owner/chief contributor at waterfilteranswers.com. We strive to bring you the most informative water filter reviews in the most intuitive and user friendly way. Besides offering advice on the water filter to suit your needs, we also post topical articles on water pollution and the environment. Stay connected and follow us on, Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and more!

1 Comment
  1. We are looking for an under sink water filter that we can use our own faucet with. We don’t prefer the reverse osmosis. We have well water. What are the best options?

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