11 Best Gravity Water Filters

Gravity Water Filter Comparison

Gravity Water Filter Review 

1. Big Berkey Water Filter 

If you are looking for a long lasting gravity water filter without sacrificing performance, then Big Berkey may have the answer for you. It’s 6000 gallon capacity with excellent certified filtration performance makes this a great filter worth considering. 

Filter Capability: Big Berkey typically uses a pair (can use up to 4 filters) Black Berkey Filters which claims to be more powerful than other gravity filters. It is capable of removing the following:

• up to 99.9999% of Pathogenic Bacterias and Cysts (E. Coli, Klebsiella, Giardia, Cryptosporidium, etc.), Viruses, Parasites, Heavy Metals and more.
• up to 99.7% of Microcystin & 99.97% of Microcystis.
• up to 95%  of Selenium, Thallium, and Nitrites.
• up to 75% Glyphosate.
• Other VOCS, MTBE, THM, Chlorine and more are removed below detectable limits.

ANSI / NSF Certified: Big Berkey’s included filters have been independently tested to exceed the EPA 7 ANSI / NSF standards which ensures great filtration capability. You can see their independent lab test results as well. 

Storage Capacity: Big Berkey can store up to 2.1 Gallons (or 8.5 Liters) of clean water. 

Maintenance: A pair of Black Berkey filters can produce clean water up to 6000 gallons (or up to 4 years when filtering up to 4 gallons per day) before a replacement is needed. You can also clean these filters during their 6000 gallon lifetime in order to maintain its flow rate. It can be done by scrubbing it with a ScotchBrite pad with water. 

Annual Maintenance Cost: $120 every 4 years.

To learn more, visit our Big Berkey water filter system review today.

2. WaterDrop Water Filter Straw with Water Bag

WaterDrop’s water filter straw is one of the most well sought out backpacking water filters for its compact size and filtration performance. Adding a gravity bag brings it to the next level. 

Filter Capability: WaterDrop Water Filter Straw is a 4-stage filtration system which consists of the pre-filter fabric, hollow fiber membrane, activated carbon fiber, and post polyester membrane. 

• Pre-Filter Fabric – Removes small debris such as dirt, stones, leaves, etc.
• Hollow Fiber Membrane – A 0.1-micron filter that removes up to 99.9% of common bacterias and protozoans. These include Escherichia Coli, Vitriol Cholerae, salmonella typhi and also protozoans.
• Japanese activated Carbon Fiber – Uses high-grade coconut shells which are designed to reduce chlorine thus improving taste and odor.
• Post Polyester Membrane – This is the last stage of the filter that removes rust, sediments, particulates and other types of

Compact and Easy to Carry: WaterDrop’s portable water filters bring compactness to the next level and its gravity filters are no exception to this. The package consists of a  1.5 Gallon capacity gravity-fed water bag (which is foldable into any shape for storage), extension hose, shoulder strap and the water filter straw itself. These are quite compact and do not take up a large amount of space. 

Build Quality: WaterDrop Gravity Filter’s components are manufactured with BPA-free and ultra-durable TPU materials. The water bag itself is made out of durable food-grade plastic that is able to withstand long-term use. 

Maintenance: Each WaterDrop water filter straw has a long lifespan of 100,000 gallons before a replacement is needed. It can also be easily cleaned in order to maintain its performance. No need for a backwashing syringe or other tools. Simply flush through the filter with clean water. 

Annual Maintenance Cost: $15 Yearly

3. Platypus GravityWorks Water Filter

Holding an incredible rating of 4.9 out of 5.0, the Platypus GravityWorks Water filter has been praised by many satisfied customers for its fast water flow and excellent filter performance.  

Filter Capability: Platypus GravityWorks uses its own EPA and NSF tested 0.2 micron proprietary water filters. They are capable of filtering up to 99.9% of bacteria and protozoa including giardia, cryptosporidium, E. Coli, salmonella, and cholera. 

Fast Water Flow: GravityWorks has an incredible fast water flow despite the gravity is doing all the hard work of pushing it into the filters. It can filter and clean water up to 1.75 liters per minute. 

Dual Water Reservoir: Unlike other gravity filters where you only get a water bag for untreated water, Platypus GravityWorks includes two 6.0L water bags (one for untreated, dirty water and the other for storing clean, filtered water). 

Maintenance: Each GravityWorks water filter cartridge has a reasonable lifespan of around 396 gallons before a replacement is needed. The filter cartridge’s microfilter can be easily backflushed in 4 seconds in order to maintain its optimum performance.  Platypus also offers replacement reservoirs, hose, bottle adapter and cleaning kit as well for any maintenance duties. 

Annual Maintenance Cost: $55 Yearly

Learn more at our Platypus GravityWorks review today.

4. Zen Water Rejuvenate 

Gravity Water Filters are not primarily made for outdoor use, there are some that are great for indoor use as well. Zen Water Rejuvenate is a countertop water filter that features an excellent filtration system, great tasting water and more. 

Filter Capability: The Rejuvenate 7-stage filtration system consists of a Micro Ceramic Filter cartridge, 5-Stage Mineral Filter Cartridge and Maifan Mineral Stones. 

• Micro-Ceramic Filter Dome: Sits on top of the tank. It is the first stage in filtering and cleaning water. It simply traps dirt and gunk that would usually accumulate on the surface. 
• Granulated Activated Carbon: Effective at removing chlorine, radon, solvents, pesticides and other volatile organic chemicals. It also improves taste and odor. 
• Ionic Exchange Resin (Mineral Sand): The stage used to soften water by replacing the cations with sodium ions. 
• Far Infrared Ceramic Balls: Helps activate healthy minerals that are quite beneficial to humans.
• Natural Zeolite: It filters and removes viruses and contaminants down to 4 microns. 
• Magnetic Tap: reduces the effects of hard water by passing the water through a magnetic field. 
• Maifan Mineral Stones: The last stage of the filtration process that specializes in removing heavy metals and other impurities. It also releases healthy minerals. 

Large Water Reservoir: Rejuvenate has an excellent water capacity of around 6-gallons (2-gallons for the top tank and 4-gallons for the bottom tank) which is nice to have where you can store your clean water. 

Maintenance: In terms of maintenance, each water filter cartridge has its own water filter capacity before a replacement is needed in order to maintain its optimal performance. Kindly refer below for each individual lifespan:

• Micro Ceramic Filter – Lifespan of 1,000 gallons or 1-Year and cost $18.00 per year.
• 5-Stage Mineral Filter – Lifespan of 500 gallons or 6-Months and cost $32.00 per year for 2 pieces.
• Maifan Mineral Stones – Lifespan of 3-Years and cost $18.00.

Annual Maintenance Cost: $68 Yearly

Please visit our Zen water systems review to learn more.

5. Propur Traveler Gravity Water Filter

If you are looking for a gravity water filter that can withstand everyday use whether that is indoors or outdoors, Propur Traveler got you back. It’s great stainless steel build quality and long lasting filter makes this worth considering for daily use. 

Filter Capability: Propur Traveler uses ProOne G2.0 filter that comprises of a Porous ceramic material that allows water to be effectively absorbed by the filter and a Granulated Activated Carbon (GAC) which is used for reducing and removing contaminants like pesticides, fluoride, herbicides, chloramines, bacterias and heavy metals. 

Another feature to note about the ProOne G2,0 is that it is also silver infused with help which helps prevent any future growth of bacteria on the water. The filters are also certified NSF/ANSI-42 and are independent lab tested to ensure great tasting water is produced. 

High Quality 304 Stainless Steel: When it comes to build quality and design, Propur Traveler is primarily made from durable 304 stainless steel material. It is resistant to corrosion and rust plus it is also easy to clean. 

Maintenance: The ProOne G2.0 filter cartridge can last up to 6 months of daily use before a replacement is needed. Each water filter cartridge costs around $70 which is kind of pricey but works well nonetheless. 

Annual Maintenance Cost: $140 Yearly

6. Doulton SS-2 Gravity Water Filter

The Doulton SS-2 is another good gravity water filter that is super effective when it comes to filtration performance, self sterilizing plus its excellent stainless steel build quality. 

Filter Capability: Doulton SS-2 uses their 3-stage Doulton Super Sterasyl 7” filtration system. This filter is NSF certified to standards 42 and 53 as well. It comprises of the following stages in order of filtration process and their functions:

1. Super Sterasyl Ceramic Layer: The first layer that provides sub 0.2 micron filtration. It is capable of reducing up to 99.99% of bacteria and Cysts. It is able to remove up to 98% of 98% of turbidity as well. 
2. Silver with Ceramic Layer: Contains oligodynamic silver for disinfection, this layer is capable of eliminating further bacteria that is trapped in the ceramic’s pores. This prevents any future bacteria growth. 
3. Granular Activated Carbon (GAC): Acting as the post filter, this layer filters and reduces up to 95% of chlorine and removes VOC’s and industrial solvents. 

Self Sterilizing: Doulton claims that all of their filter elements are self sterilizing thus it is bacteriologically safe for cleaning and handling. 

High Grade Polished Stainless Steel: Like the Propur Traveler, the Doulton SS-2 is made from high-quality portable stainless steel material. This is not just durable but also it will look good on the shelf due to its polished design. 

Maintenance: Doulton recommends cleaning the water filter every 3 months or when the water flow is noticeably slower. The Doulton Super Sterasyl filter cartridge has a good lifespan of around 6-months before a replacement is needed. Each 7” filter cartridge cost around $36.00.

Annual Maintenance Cost: $72 Yearly

7. MSR Trail Base Gravity Water Filter

Featured in 2018 as the Best Buy for Outdoor Gear Lab, the MSR Trail Base not only comes from a well known brand since 1969, but excels in filtration performance, fast water flow and versatility for outdoor use. 

Filter Capability: The MSR Trail Base uses the same 0.2 micron filtration system with their smaller brother, the TrailShot which is effective at filtering and removing up to 99.9% of bacteria, protozoa and particulate. 

It also features Hollow Fiber Technology that traps other harmful contaminants such as giardia, cryptosporidium and salmonella. It removes iodine and chlorine as well for improving taste and odor. 

Versatile Water Filter System: Due to its modular components, this allows the MSR Trail Base to be fitted with either a 2L or 4L water reservoir bag. This applies to both clean and dirty water bags. 

Fast Water Flow: What stands out with MSR Trail Base is its strong water flow. It is able to filter up to 1 liters per min which is incredibly fast.

Maintenance: Each MSR Trail Base’s water filter cartridge has an impressive lifespan of around 528 Gallons (2000 Liters) before a replacement is needed. It also comes with a limited warranty. 

Annual Maintenance Cost: $35 Yearly

8. Sawyer One Gallon

Sawyer’s gravity water filter is another great product to consider when it comes to excellent 0.1 micron filter, long lasting filters and versatility. 

Filter Capability:  Sawyer Gravity Water Filter uses the 0.1 micron Sawyer Dual-Threaded Mini water filter cartridge that comprises Hollow Fiber Membrane Technology which allows water to flow through the tiny micro-pores. It is also 75% stronger which gives you fast water flow but also allows backwashing without losing 98% of the original flow rate.

In terms of filtration performance, the Dual-Threaded Mini is capable of filtering and removing up to 99.9% of bacterias (such as salmonella, cholera and E.Coli) and protozoa (such as giardia and cryptosporidium). It can remove up to 100% of microplastics as well. 

Ensuring its filtration quality, it has been independently tested by many laboratories including Laboratory Hydrieon, LCC, and Aquadiagnostics Laboratories. 

Versatile Water Bags: Like the MSR Trail Base, the Sawyer Gravity Water Filter can be configured with either a dual 1-gallon bladder (one for clean and dirty water reservoir) or with only a single 1-gallon bladder (dirty water reservoir only). This can be very versatile depending on the needs of the user. 

Maintenance: One of the most prominent features of the Sawyer Mini cartridge is that it is rated to filter water up to 100,000 gallons which is very impressive overall. Adding the backwashing feature may also help out in not just extending the life of the filter but also maintaining the filtration performance.

Annual Maintenance Cost: $20 Yearly

9. ZeroWater 40-Cup Gravity Water Filter

Another gravity water filter with a high performing 5-stage filter, sleek and modern design plus a feature not found in most water filters makes this worth considering on your list. 

Filter Capability:  ZeroWater uses the ZeroWater high performance 5-stage filter system. It is capable of removing up to 99.6% of harmful contaminants including heavy metals like lead, copper, iron, manganese and more. For more filter performance results, you can check their official website. Listed down each of the 5 stages in order and their individual functions:

1. Coarse Filter Screen: Functions similar to a sediment filter which filters and removes fine particles such as dirt and debris.
2. Foam Distributor: This functions by dispersing water across the entire width of the water filter. This makes it more effective at using the filters.
3. Multi-Layer Activated Carbon & Oxidation Reduction Alloy: Starting with the Carbon layer which filters contaminants and improves taste while the Oxidation Reduction Alloy removes chlorine and other metals. It also keeps mold from forming.
4. Dual Comprehensive Ion Exchange Resin: This transforms the filtered water into its pure state by utilizing negative and positive ion exchange.
5. Ultra-Fine Screen & Non-Woven Membrane Layers: The last stage which removes ultra-fine particles.

Modern Design: One thing that sets this apart from the best of gravity water filters is the modern design. It is made out of a sleek glass container with polished steel on both the top and bottom parts. This brings it more of a modern look and will fit very well on a kitchen countertop.

TDS Meter: A bonus feature of the ZeroWater is they include a water quality meter or TDS test kit which can be used to measure total dissolved solids. This is a nice feature to have especially for people who are first starting out on using a water pitcher filter.

Maintenance: In terms of maintenance, the ZeroWater’s filter cartridge has a lifespan of around 3-5 months or 40 gallons before a replacement is needed. Each ZeroWater replacement cartridge cost around $15.00.

Annual Maintenance Cost: $60 Yearly

10. Outback Plus Gravity Water Filter

Used by the International Red Cross and Peace Corps, the Outback Plus OB-25NF is a gravity water filter made for harsh outdoor use due to its rugged build but also does not sacrifice its filtration performance So, If you are looking for a utilitarian type of water filter that is meant for outdoor use, then this may be the right choice.

Filter Capability: Used by many disaster relief organizations for over 25+ years, the Outback Plus uses a 4-stage filtration system which is capable of filtering and removing up to 99.9% of bacteria (such as E.Coli, Giardia, and Cryptosporidium), cysts, viruses, pesticides, herbicides and more. 

The filter has also been tested and meets the EPA Standards for virus reduction. Furthermore, It can produce up to 6-12 gallons per day and works well on fresh water.

Rugged and Durable: Designed originally for disaster preparedness and survival, the Outback Plus’ rugged and durable build quality is superb. It is great to use in either daily use or for travelling in harsh conditioned places. 

Large Capacity: Outback Plus includes a large 5 gallon bucket for storing clean and filtered water. Outback Plus also included a 2 gallon bucket for untreated water as well. 

Maintenance: In terms of maintaining the water filter, the Outback water filter cartridge has a good lifespan of around 1,800 gallons before a replacement is needed. Furthermore, the filters can last for about 12 months. 

Annual Maintenance Cost: $130 Yearly

11. Santevia Gravity Water Filter

If you happen to discover your drinking water contains fluoride, then the Santevia Gravity Water Filter may be worth considering. Specializing in fluoride removal, it features an excellent 7-stage filtration performance. 

Filter Capability: Featuring a 7-stage filtration process, the Santevia’s filtration system comprises 2 components which are the Ceramic Pre-Filter and Fluoride Filter. The 0.3 micron Ceramic Pre-Filter acts as the first stage that is capable of removing microplastics, rusts, bacteria and sediment. 

Next is the Fluoride Filter that features a 6-stage filtration process that primarily specializes in removing up to 100% of fluoride. Furthermore, it is capable of removing contaminants such as heavy metals, herbicides and up to 99% of chlorine for taste and odor. Listed down each of the stages in order and their individual functions:

1. NSF Certified Activated Alumina: It filters and remove up 100% of fluoride
2. NSF Certified Granular Activated Coconut Carbon: filters and removes herbicides, industrial chemicals, herbicides and heavy metals. It also improves taste and odor by eliminating chlorine. 
3. Kinetic Degradation Fluxion: Further reduces chlorine and prevents bacteria and mold growth. 
4. pH Mineral Balls: Increases pH and adds important minerals like calcium and magnesium. 
5. Mineral Stone Infusion: Helps oxygenate water and restore alkalinity.
6. Natural Silica Sand: polishes the water and initiates optimal pH balance. 

Mineral Stones: Aside from its specialization on removing fluoride, Santevia features a set of mineral stones that comprises maifan stones and bio-ceramic energy balls. These are quite beneficial as it releases healthy minerals and maintains the alkalinity of the water. 

Santevia claims that it also improves the taste of the water and that it mimics the water from fresh mountain streams. 

Maintenance: In terms of maintenance, each component of the Santevia features its own water filtration capacity before a replacement is required in order to maintain its performance. Kindly refer to the table below for each individual lifespan:

• Ceramic Pre-Filter – Lifespan of 1-Year and cost $43.00 per year.
• Fluoride Filter – Lifespan of 317 gallons or 4-Months and cost $135.00 ($45.00 each)
• Mineral Stones – Lifespan of 2-Years and cost $40.00 per year.

Annual Maintenance Cost: $218 Yearly

Conclusion

Selecting the right gravity water filter can greatly enhance your access to clean water, whether you’re in a remote location or preparing for emergencies. The models highlighted in this article are chosen for their effective filtration, ease of operation, and durability.

Choose the best gravity water filter to ensure you always have access to purified water with minimal effort.