Best Gravity Water Filters: Top Picks, Reviews & Buying Guide

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Shopping for a gravity water filter?

Check out top picks below.

Gravity water filters provide high-quality, purified drinking water in a wide range of settings with a minimum amount of effort. 

Some essential factors that you need to keep in mind when looking at gravity water filters include water and filter capacity, flow rate, price, construction, maintenance, and durability. 

Gravity filters come in a number of types, too. You can find durable countertop gravity water filters to place in your kitchen. Or you can buy a hanging gravity water filter to take on camping trips or sporting events. 

The gravity water filters below remove 99.9999% of harmful bacteria, 97% of fluoride, and 99.9% of protozoa as small as 0.1 microns from your water. 

So, if you want a simple and efficient device that removes harmful contaminants and pollutants from your tap water, a gravity water filter is ideal. 


What’s In This Buying Guide

There are many gravity water filters in the market of several types, making it tough to choose the best one. 

To help you decide which one is right for you, in this guide we recommend and review some of the best gravity water filters sold online today. 

After we list our top picks, we review each for durability, filter life, and purification. 

Then, we discuss the features and issues to consider when choosing a gravity filter.

So lets begin by reviewing our favorite picks this year:


Best Gravity Filters

Disclaimer: All links below go to Amazon.com

  1. Best Construction: Big Berkey Gravity-Fed Water Filter 
  2. Eco-Friendly: Zen Water Systems Countertop Filtration System
  3. Best Value: Propur Big Countertop Gravity Water Filter
  4. Best For Outdoors: Katadyn BeFree 3.0L Water Filter
  5. Most Durable: Big Berkey BK4X2 Countertop Water Filter
  6. Best Multi-Stage: Alexapure Pro Water Filtration System

Title
Big Berkey Gravity-Fed Stainless Steel Countertop Water Filter...
Zen Water - Water Filter System, Portable Water Purification...
Big Berkey Gravity-Fed Stainless Steel Countertop Water Filter...
Zen Water - Water Filter System, Portable Water Purification...
Award
Best Construction
Best Eco-Friendly
Material
Stainless steel
Clear plastic
Capacity
2.25 gallon capacity
4 gallon capacity
Dimensions
8.5 x 8.5 x 19.25 inches
12.5 x 12.5 x 22 inches
Title
Big Berkey Gravity-Fed Stainless Steel Countertop Water Filter...
Big Berkey Gravity-Fed Stainless Steel Countertop Water Filter...
Award
Best Construction
Material
Stainless steel
Capacity
2.25 gallon capacity
Dimensions
8.5 x 8.5 x 19.25 inches
Title
Zen Water - Water Filter System, Portable Water Purification...
Zen Water - Water Filter System, Portable Water Purification...
Award
Best Eco-Friendly
Material
Clear plastic
Capacity
4 gallon capacity
Dimensions
12.5 x 12.5 x 22 inches

Title
Katadyn BeFree 3.0L Water Filter, Fast Flow, 0.1 Micron EZ Clean...
Alexapure Pro Stainless Steel Water Filtration System - 5,000...
Katadyn BeFree 3.0L Water Filter, Fast Flow, 0.1 Micron EZ Clean...
Alexapure Pro Stainless Steel Water Filtration System - 5,000...
Award
Best For Outdoors
Best Multi-Stage
Material
Synthetic materials
Stainless steel
Capacity
3.0 liter capacity
2.25 gallons
Dimensions
9.1 x 3.5 x 15.2 inches
14 x 9 x 9 inches
Title
Katadyn BeFree 3.0L Water Filter, Fast Flow, 0.1 Micron EZ Clean...
Katadyn BeFree 3.0L Water Filter, Fast Flow, 0.1 Micron EZ Clean...
Award
Best For Outdoors
Material
Synthetic materials
Capacity
3.0 liter capacity
Dimensions
9.1 x 3.5 x 15.2 inches
Title
Alexapure Pro Stainless Steel Water Filtration System - 5,000...
Alexapure Pro Stainless Steel Water Filtration System - 5,000...
Award
Best Multi-Stage
Material
Stainless steel
Capacity
2.25 gallons
Dimensions
14 x 9 x 9 inches


1. Premium-Quality Construction: Big Berkey Gravity-Fed Water Filter 

water filters gravity

The Big Berkey gravity-fed water filter features a high-quality purification system that filters more than 200 contaminants, resulting in clean and fresh drinking water. 

Pros

  • Durable
  • Strong filter
  • Long filter life
  • Removes chemicals efficiently
  • High-quality stainless steel material

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Limited capacity
  • Emits rubbery smell
  • Does not eliminate fluoride

Our Review

The Big Berkey gravity-fed water filter has a capacity of 2.25 gallons with a flow rate of 0.03 gallons per minute that efficiently purifies water for up to 4 people daily. It includes a pair of Black Berkey purification elements that last for at least 6000 gallons before you need to replace them.

With this gravity water filter, you can also add two more purification elements for an additional 6000 gallons of purified water. This averages out your cost to 2 cents per gallon as opposed to 4 cents. 

Plus, Berkey conducts independent testing on their Black Berkey purification elements to ensure effectiveness and reliability. 

This convenient water filter requires no electricity or plumbing, making it extremely useful for emergencies and daily use. Plus, its sturdy stainless steel construction, 8.5-inch diameter, and 21-inch height make it handy for outdoor use, especially on your camping and fishing trips. 

The Big Berkey gravity-fed water filter comes with upper and lower stainless steel chambers, a stainless steel lid, knob, and screw. 

The box also includes a spigot and rubber gasket for the base, a priming button, two wing nuts, and washers, plus two blocking plugs. 

With this gravity water filter, you can also take advantage of Berkey’s 12-month manufacturer’s warranty if you are not satisfied with your purchase for some reason. 

Specs

  • Dimensions: ‎8.5 (L) x 8.5 (W) x 19.25 (H) inches
  • Weight: 6.82 pounds
  • Capacity: 2.25 gallons
  • Material: Stainless steel
  • Flow rate: 0.03 gallons per minute
  • Batteries required: No

2. Eco-Friendly: Zen Water Systems Countertop Purification System

best gravity water filter

The Zen Water countertop gravity water filter is a safe and eco-friendly filtration and purification system owing to its BPA-free plastic material. 

Pros

  • Budget-friendly
  • Micro-ceramic filter
  • 8-step filtration process
  • Eco-friendly construction
  • Includes a magnetic spigot
  • Efficiently removes contaminants 

Cons

  • Tedious assembly
  • Potential leakage
  • Emits moldy smell

Our Review

The Zen Water gravity water filter has a total capacity of 4 gallons, with a top tank capacity of 1.5 gallons and bottom storage of 2.5 gallons. 

It also has a micro-ceramic filter that lasts up to 1 year or 1,000 gallons. Plus, its cylindrical shape and lightweight structure make it ideal for your kitchen countertop as well as outdoor use. 

The Zen Water Systems countertop filtration and purification system transforms your water into clean, alkaline mineral water. 

It features an advanced 8-stage process that starts with a micro-ceramic filter with pores measuring between 0.2 and 0.9 microns that traps harmful contaminants and reduces chemicals. 

The natural Zeolite removes odors, bad tastes, and metal particles to purify the taste of your water. 

Your water then moves through the far-infrared ceramic balls known to boost metabolism and increase enzyme activity in the body. The silica sand layer then absorbs all remaining impurities, and the water moves to the mineral sand. 

The activated carbon further purifies the water by eliminating unpleasant odors, leaving a refreshing flavor. 

The water then flows through the Maifan mineral stones that permeate the water with minerals and essential micronutrients like zinc, calcium, and potassium. 

This process ends with the magnetic spigot, which converts 1,200 Gauss molecules into small clusters, making it easier for you to absorb the filtered water. 

The Zen Water gravity water filter is lightweight and portable, making it extremely useful for your home, camping trips, office use, and during natural disasters. 

Specs

  • Dimensions: 12.5 (L) x 12.5 (W) x 22 (H) inches
  • Weight: 6.5 pounds
  • Capacity: 4 gallons
  • Type: Countertop
  • Material: Plastic
  • Filter pore size: 0.2 to 0.9 microns

3. Best Value: Propur Big Countertop Gravity Water Filter

gravity fed water filter

The Propur Big countertop gravity water filter has a 2.75-gallon capacity and a great low price, making it an ideal affordable choice for a small family searching for a convenient filter for clean drinking water every day.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Easy to clean
  • Long filter life
  • Efficient ProOne G2.0 filters
  • Suitable for indoor and outdoor use

Cons

  • Rusts easily
  • Bitter water taste
  • Poor-quality construction

Our Review

The Propur Big countertop gravity water filter features 2 state-of-the-art ProOne G2.0 filters that remove harmful chemicals from your drinking water. They also reduce fluoride, heavy metals, pesticides, and bacteria, leaving behind calcium and minerals for a healthier taste. 

These ProOne G2.0 filters last up to 12 months and prevent bacteria growth or build-up over time. They are also independently lab-tested and NSF/ANSI -42 component certified. Plus, these all-in-one filters are compatible to use with Berkey systems. 

This gravity water filter provides good value for your money owing to its 304 stainless steel and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene construction, making it durable and extremely easy to clean. Plus, it is corrosion and rust-resistant, making it suitable for outdoor use. 

The Propur Big countertop gravity water filter is pretty simple to use. It has a non-slip, easy-to-lift gripper that allows quick removal and filling and a stainless steel spigot with an adjustable flow rate. It also has a secure tightening on the BPA-free plastic base to prevent leakage. 

Weighing just 1 pound, the Propur big countertop gravity water filter comes in handy during camping, fishing trips, and emergencies. This gravity water filtration system includes one stainless steel spigot, 2 ProOne G2.0 7” filter elements, and one non-slip pad. 

Specs

  • Dimensions: 10 (L) x 10 (W) x 12 (H) inches
  • Weight: 1 pound
  • Capacity: 2.75 gallons
  • Material: Stainless steel & Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene
  • Batteries required: No

4. Best For Outdoor Use: Katadyn BeFree 3.0L Water Filter

best gravity filter

The Katadyn BeFree 3.0L water filter is compact and efficient, making it the perfect companion for all your outdoor sports and expeditions, including hiking, backpacking, soccer practice, or camping trips.

Pros

  • Flexible
  • Affordable
  • Lightweight
  • Easy to clean
  • Good for outdoor adventures
  • A fast flow rate of 2 liters per minute
  • 0.1-micron water filter removes 99.9999% of harmful bacteria 

Cons

  • Potential leakage
  • Clogging issues
  • Fragile construction
  • Develops mold overtime

Our Review

Like all Katadyn products, the BeFree 3.0L water filter promises high quality and performance for home and outdoor use. 

With this gravity filter, you can drink directly from the reservoir or refill a bottle. Plus, the integrated bail handle and carry loop allow you to hang it from a treetop or wall hook for the gravity to start purifying the water. 

The BeFree 3L has a BeFree water filter that removes 99.9999% of harmful bacteria and 99.9% of protozoa as small as 0.1 microns from the water. It filters up to 1,000 liters of contaminated water, and the free flow channels let water flow at a rate of 2 liters per minute. 

The Katadyn BeFree 3.0L water filter features an EZ-Clean Membrane. Simply fill it with water, secure the cover, and swish or shake the filter to remove any debris to get clean water on demand.

This hanging gravity water filter is primarily a collapsible flask made of synthetic material that is extremely easy to put in your backpack, carry-on luggage, and other tight spaces. 

Whether you fill it with cloudy water while on rugged terrain or from a stream in the forest, the Stay-Clean nozzle ensures no dirt accumulates on the top or finds its way inside the flask. 

Even though the Katadyn BeFree 3.0L water filter is rugged and highly durable, we don’t recommend using it in freezing conditions to maintain longevity. 

Specs

  • Dimensions: 9.1 (L) x 3.5 (W) x 15.2 (H) inches
  • Weight: 3.53 oz
  • Capacity: 30 liters
  • Material: Synthetic
  • Flow rate: 2 liters per minute

5. Most Durable: Big Berkey BK4X2 Countertop Water Filter

water filtration gravity

The Big Berkey BK4X2 countertop water filter is an aesthetically pleasing water purification device that fits most classic and modern kitchens. It boasts a high-grade stainless steel finish, making it an overall durable product. 

Pros

  • Durable
  • Good water capacity
  • Includes 2 fluoride filters
  • High-grade stainless steel finish

Cons

  • Bulky
  • Expensive
  • Difficult assembly

Our Review

As with all Berkey products, the Big Berkey BK4X2 countertop water filter provides fresh-tasting purified water for your entire household. It boasts a high-grade 304 stainless steel housing which includes the upper chamber, lower chamber, spigot, and lid. 

This gravity water filter has a capacity of 2.25 gallons, which is adequate for daily home use and small gatherings in your backyard or patio. 

It includes 2 Black Berkey filter elements that reduce heavy metals and other harmful contaminants from your tap water. Each of these elements has a 3,000-gallon lifespan which translates into 6,000 gallons for a two-filter system. 

With the Big Berkey BK4X2 countertop water filter, you also get 2 fluoride elements that you can attach to the stem of each Black Berkey filter element to filter an additional 1,000 gallons of water.

The Big Berkey BK4X2 countertop water filter is expensive, but it is a worthy investment due to its corrosion-resistant stainless steel construction. 

Specs

  • Dimensions: 8.5 (L) x 8.5 (W) x 19.25 (H) inches
  • Weight: 8.8 pounds
  • Capacity: 8.5 liters
  • Material: Stainless steel
  • Batteries required: No

6. Best Multi-Stage Filtration: Alexapure Pro Stainless Steel Water Filtration System

gravity fed water filter

The Alexapure Pro water filtration system delivers revolutionary filtration technology for your home, office use, or in case of emergency. 

It has a raw and filtered 2.25-gallon water capacity, making it ideal for everyday use both indoors and outdoors.       

Pros

Easy assembly

  • Low maintenance
  • Extended filter life
  • Adjustable flow rate 
  • Includes a revolutionary ceramic shell gravity block core filter

100% made in the USA

  • Adjustable filter capacity of up to 4 total filters
  • Removes up to 99.9999% of water impurities

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Develops rust
  • Slower than advertised

Our Review

The Alexapure Pro water filtration system features an advanced gravity block core filter with a hybrid ceramic shell that removes 99.9999% of more than 200 water impurities like lead, chlorine, bacteria, and 97% of fluoride. 

The Alexapure Pro also has an adjustable filter capacity, which allows you to add up to 3 additional filters for a faster flow rate. Plus, the replacement filters do not require any priming and are extremely easy to install. 

With the Alexapure Pro water filtration system, you get one stainless steel upper chamber, a lower chamber, and a lid. It also includes one spigot, a knob, three rubber plugs, and a non-slip black rubber base ring. 

Plus, Alexapure has added all the necessary installation hardware and a simple instruction manual to ensure easy assembly. 

The Alexapure Pro gravity water filter is 100% made in the USA and boasts a sleek stainless steel construction that complements any home decor. 

However, keep in mind that the filter performance may vary under seasonal water conditions.

Specs

  • Dimensions: 14 (L) x 9 (W) x 9 (H) inches
  • Weight: 3.1 kilograms
  • Capacity: 2.25 gallons
  • Material: Stainless steel
  • Batteries required: No

Gravity Water Filter Buying Guide

gravity water purifier

What are Gravity Water Filters and How Do They Work? 

A gravity water filter is an efficient device that filters and purifies contaminated water with the help of gravity. Gravity water filters are highly convenient because they do not require any plumbing or electricity to operate. 

Plus, they are suitable for home use and come in handy during outdoor adventures and sporting events

Gravity water filters consist of an upper and lower chamber. Once you pour contaminated water into the upper chamber, the filter elements remove harmful bacteria and other pollutants. Using the force of gravity, the water goes through to the lower chamber. 

Once this process is complete, you can pour yourself a glass of clean drinking water. 

Types of Gravity Water Filters

There are different types of gravity water filters that you can choose from depending on your budget and filtered water requirements. These include:

Countertop

Countertop gravity water filters are the most common type available in the market. They come in different shapes, sizes and materials. 

If you opt for a high-grade stainless steel countertop filter, you can easily place it on your kitchen countertop, office coffee table, or patio furniture without compromising on space. 

Countertop filters are also usually lightweight, making it easy to transport them from one area to another if needed. 

Hanging

Hanging gravity water filters are extremely popular among people engaging in regular outdoor sports and other activities. They are mostly lightweight and compact, making them easy to store in your backpack or luggage. 

Hanging gravity water filters are as efficient at purifying contaminated water as any other type of gravity water filter. Plus, they include an integrated carry loop and a bail handle for you to hang them from an elevated source wherever you are. 

Ceramic

Ceramic gravity water filters are known to remove harmful bacteria and protozoa from tap water adequately. They are especially recommended for people who are sensitive to chemicals and suffer from allergies as they use fewer chemicals than some other filters. 

Sediment

Sediment gravity water filters are designed to eliminate suspended solids, also referred to as sediments or turbidity. They function pretty much like a net that traps dust particles or harmful pollutants to deliver a flow of clean water. 

Why Buy a Gravity Water Filter Vs. Other Options?

gravity water system

Gravity water filters are better than most regular water filters because they use gravity to filter contaminated water. The water flows naturally from top to bottom, and the end result is clean and fresh water. 

Other water filters use potent chemical filters made out of granular activated carbon or other materials that remove impurities like chlorine and pesticide but can prove harmful over time. They also require electricity to operate, unlike gravity water filters. 

Plus, gravity water filters are available in various sizes, are primarily portable, and do not take much space as opposed to some other options. 

You also have the option of physically filtering your water by straining it through a sieve or a very fine cloth. However, this process proves to be quite tedious and does not guarantee the elimination of contaminants from your water. 

Overall, gravity water filters are safer and more efficient than other options owing to their portable nature and natural gravity filtration process. 

Key Features To Look For

You need to consider a few things before investing in a gravity water filter for your home or outdoor use. These include:

Portability

Portability isn’t the most crucial factor if you want a gravity water filter for everyday use in the kitchen. However, if you want a gravity water filter to take along on road trips or to quench your thirst while playing outdoor sports, you must invest in a lightweight and compact device. 

You can find highly efficient and portable gravity water filters that are durable and deliver freshly purified water on the go.

Flow Rate

A gravity water filter’s flow rate is measured in gallons per minute or GPM. You should invest in a gravity water filter with a higher flow rate if you require abundant drinking water throughout the day. 

Remember that a gravity water filter’s flow rate can decrease over time if the filter is dirty or has not been replaced when needed. 

Filter Capacity

A gravity water filter’s filter capacity is essential because it determines your water’s flow rate. 

A device that can accommodate up to 4 filters is best for large families or big gatherings because it increases the water flow rate. 

Anything less than that is suitable for small families and short outdoor trips. 

Filter Life and Replacement Frequency

Most gravity water filters have a lifespan of 6 to 12 months. The filters of most countertop devices are crucial when it comes to efficient performance and durability. 

Activated carbon filters and ceramic pre-filters are extremely popular due to their extended lifespan of 12 months. You can also find fluoride filters and 5-stage filters that last between 4 and 6 months. 

On the other hand, hanging gravity filters have a shorter lifespan of roughly 1 to 2 months, depending on the frequency of usage. 

The filter cartridge’s life expectancy is also essential and can be calculated by how much water it can filter over time. When exactly you need to replace the filter cartridge also depends on the water turbidity, which reduces cartridge life after each use. 

Materials Used

Gravity water filters are constructed of varying materials, including stainless steel, plastic, and synthetic fibers. 

High-grade 304 stainless steel filters are considered the most durable but may develop rust after extended use. Gravity water filters made of plastic are lightweight and easy to clean but are also prone to wear and tear.

Synthetic gravity water filters are flexible and suitable for outdoor use but may tear or present leakage over time. 

All these materials have their pros and cons, so choose wisely when making your final decision.  

Pros and Cons of Gravity Water Filters

Gravity water filters are now increasingly popular due to their efficient water purification qualities. While they have numerous advantages, there are also a few drawbacks to buying one. 

Pros

  • Low maintenance
  • Filter water efficiently
  • Available in various sizes
  • Mostly portable 
  • Do not take up much space
  • Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
  • Do not require electricity to operate
  • Remove bacteria and chlorine from tap water

Cons

  • Expensive 
  • Require filter replacements
  • May produce bitter-tasting water
  • Might result in rust and corrosion over time
  • May take longer to filter water than other water filters

Cleaning and Maintenance

gravity water filtration system

Cleaning your gravity water filter ensures a good flow rate of purified water and results in extended life.

You should clean the housing of your countertop gravity filter periodically. We recommend that you wash your hands before and after doing so or wear rubber gloves. 

Start by removing the filters, rinsing the upper chamber, the lower chamber, and the lid with the help of warm soapy water. 

Make sure that the housing and all its parts are dry before re-assembling. You can also mix bleach or other chemical additives with water to clean your gravity water filter to reduce potential mold and bacteria growth. 

Cleaning your gravity water filter’s filters is also vital to restoring the water flow after extended use. 

Remove the filter elements from the upper chamber by unscrewing the wing nuts and holding them under running water. Using a soft bristle brush, gently clean the filter lengthwise. 

Once clean, simply replace the filter elements, fill the upper chamber, and put the lid back on. Remember not to use any soap, detergent, or harsh solvents on your filter elements to avoid damage. 

The cleaning and maintenance for hanging water filters may be slightly different. You can simply clean your filter by using the backflushing method by collecting filtered water in a clean water bottle or reservoir. 

Attach the bottle or reservoir to the end of the nozzle and remove the connection of the unfiltered water to let the water flow in the opposite direction right above the filter cartridge. End this process by allowing clean water to flow back into your filter, after which you can use it right away. 

Installing a Gravity Water Filter

Installing a gravity water filter takes little time and effort because it does not require any plumbing or electricity to operate. 

All you need to do is put together all the components mentioned in its instruction manual to form the filtration system. 

However, some filters require priming before use. To do so, simply run them through water for a few minutes before setting up the system. 


Frequently Asked Questions

gravity water filtration

Are gravity water filters worth investing in?

Gravity water filters are worth investing in, owing to their excellent benefits and abilities. Their simple and effective filtration makes them convenient for daily use at home or the office. You can easily keep them on your kitchen countertop, office coffee table, or patio table. 

You can choose a gravity filter ranging from a capacity of 2.5 gallons up to 8 gallons depending on your specific needs. 

Gravity water filters are also ideal for outdoor adventures like hiking, camping, and long road trips. You can find affordable and portable gravity water filters that are easy to use and provide clean and fresh drinking water on the go.

Gravity water filters are handy if you live in an area with poor-quality tap water as they filter harmful contaminants and purify water. Plus, they do not require electricity to operate, making them extremely handy in emergencies or natural disasters. 

However, remember that gravity water filters have a long-term cost of filter replacement, so choose one that not only caters to your specific drinking water requirements but fits your budget as well. 

Are gravity water filters durable? 

Most gravity water filters have a lifespan of 6 to 12 months, which depends on a few key factors. 

The construction of a gravity water filter plays a significant role in the overall durability of the device. 

A solid stainless steel housing that is rust and corrosion-resistant ensures longevity because it prevents wear and tear. 

On the other hand, plastic and synthetic gravity water filters are susceptible to leakage, rust, and potential damage with each use. 

Can gravity water filters remove bacteria efficiently? 

Most gravity water filters remove chlorine, bacteria, and water protozoa from drinking water, but how efficiently this is done depends on the type of filter it includes. 

Gravity block core filters with ceramic shells remove 99.9999% of more than 200 water impurities like chlorine, lead, salmonella, and other bacteria from the water. You can also find activated carbon filters that reduce unpleasant odors, harmful bacteria, and 97% fluoride. 

In addition to removing bacteria from your drinking water, some gravity water filters also soften the water and add healthy minerals and essential micronutrients like calcium, zinc, and potassium to it. 


Final Verdict: What is the best gravity water filter sold today? 

To write this guide, we looked at dozens of gravity filters sold online and selected 6 as our top picks. 

To us, the best gravity water filter for indoor and outdoor use is the Alexapure Pro gravity water filter. 

It boasts a durable gravity block core filter with a ceramic shell that removes 99.9999% of bacteria and other pollutants and 97% of fluoride from your tap water. 

The Alexapure Pro water filtration system has a water capacity of 2.25 gallons, making it suitable for home and outdoor use. 

Finally, it requires minimal maintenance and is 100% made in the USA. 

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