7 Best Gravity Water Filters in 2023 – Nature’s Force at Your Service

Water is essential for life. The refreshing taste of pure water is a simple pleasure, without the need for sweeteners or additives.

However, modern life has become more complex. From smartphones to cars, we are surrounded by advanced electronics. These devices make our lives easier, but they can also add complexity. Do you long for a return to simplicity and nature, like the simplicity of water?

If you want to go back to a simpler time, before even our refrigerators were “smart,” a gravity water filter might be for you.

Gravity water filters are appealing because they rely on a fundamental force in the universe: gravity. Since the time of Isaac Newton, gravity has been a key concept in physics. But gravity doesn't have to be complicated. In fact, it's gravity that keeps us grounded.

Gravity water filters are easy to use and don't require electricity. They can be used anywhere, whether it's in a hotel room on the road or on a camping trip in the wilderness.

Now, let's take a look at the best gravity water filters on the market. Get ready to feel the G's.

Top Best Gravity Water Filters in 2023

Gravity water filters are a great addition to your kitchen or camping kit, providing you with clean, great-tasting water in an instant. Here are the best gravity water filters on the market.

The Big Berkey Gravity-Fed Water Filter has a 2.25 gallon capacity and is 19.25 inches by 8.5 inches, making it a convenient size for your countertop. It's also portable, so you can take it on vacations. The filter is made of stainless steel and high-grade rubber to prevent contamination.

The Big Berkey comes with two Black Purification Elements, which are tested by third parties and remove over 200 contaminants, including lead, pesticides, herbicides, viruses, and chlorine. While these filters are not NSF certified, the brand Berkey is trusted in the water filter industry. For additional protection against fluoride and arsenic, you can purchase Berkey's PF-2 filters at an extra cost.

The filter has a flow rate of 0.03 gallons per minute, but the countertop design allows you to fill it in advance. It also has space for two more filters, which can increase the flow rate, capacity, and functionality of the system. Even without extra filters, the Big Berkey has a 6,000 gallon filtering capacity before needing replacement. While it's a higher quality product, the long-lasting filters can save you money in the long run.

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The ProOne Big+ is made of brushed stainless steel, which is durable and easy to clean. It stands 28.75″ tall on a wire-framed stand and is a standout in any kitchen.

The ProOne Big+ comes with two 7″ filters that have been NSF certified after independent testing. These filters can remove over 200 contaminants, including pesticides, chlorine, heavy metals, and fluoride. The filters have a silver-infused ceramic outer shell, which is easy to clean and resistant to bacteria. Each filter should last for six months or up to 1000 gallons and has been recently updated for improved flow rate.

Overall, the ProOne Big+ is a high-capacity water filter with premium materials and fluoride filtering. It is one of the most expensive options on the market.

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The Travel Berkey Gravity-Fed Water Filter is designed for on-the-go use. It has stainless steel upper and lower chambers that combine to a height of 18 inches. The compact size and easy set-up make it convenient to use in any hotel room or holiday home.

The lower chamber holds 1.5 gallons of freshly filtered water. The stainless steel chambers are rust-resistant and easy to clean, while the rubber and metal components are high-grade. The filter comes with two Black range filters from Berkey, a well-known brand in the water filter industry. These long-life filters remove more than 99.99% of viruses and greater than 99.99% of pathogenic bacteria, as well as heavy metals like mercury and lead. However, fluoride filtering is not included and requires additional filters.

The Black range filters have a lifespan of 6,000 gallons and are third-party tested, although they are not NSF certified. The Travel Berkey Gravity-Fed Water Filter may be more expensive than other limited-capacity models, but the long-life filters can save on future costs.

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Zen Water Systems' countertop design is shorter and wider than other brands. The Zen Water Countertop Dispenser is 22 inches tall with its base and fits under wall-mounted cabinets, making it a compact option for your kitchen. Despite its size, it has a large capacity, with the lower chamber holding 2.5 gallons of purified water. It also stands out from other brands with its mostly plastic chassis, which is BPA-free. The clear plastic chambers allow you to see the crystal clear water, but it may not feel as sterile as a stainless steel competitor.

The Zen Water Countertop Dispenser has an 8-stage filtration process that removes contaminants and remineralizes the water to maximize its health benefits. The ceramic, carbon, and infrared layers remove pesticides, herbicides, and microparticles. However, metals such as arsenic and fluoride may remain, so it is important to check your local water supply to see if it is suitable for your area. The system is not NSF certified, so it is important to trust the brand's claims about contaminants. The ceramic filter lasts for a year, while the 5-stage filter needs to be changed every six months. It is important to mark these dates on your calendar as the maintenance schedule can be confusing.

While plastic may not be as durable or easy to clean as stainless steel, the Zen Water Countertop Dispenser is a well-made product. It's also surprisingly affordable, and with additional features like remineralization, it's a great value.

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The LifeStraw Flex is a portable water filtration system that consists of a one-gallon plastic bag, a tube connected to the filter, and nylon straps for hanging. The bag is made of BPA-free plastic and the straps are stitched for durability. The LifeStraw Flex also has buckles and a karabiner for hanging the bag and can be folded for easy carrying.

The filter itself is made up of a carbon fibre capsule and a hollow fibre membrane. The carbon fibre capsule targets contaminants such as chlorine, lead, and pesticides, but has a lifespan of only 25 gallons. The hollow fibre membrane targets pathogens and bacteria, and can filter 500 gallons. When the hollow fibre membrane is in use, the LifeStraw Flex removes 99.99% of bacteria, 99.99% of protozoa, and 99.99% of microplastics.

The LifeStraw Flex can be used as a straw or attached to a water bottle, and has a flow rate of 0.125 gallons per minute (roughly 500ml/min). However, the upper chamber, which consists of a bag rather than a stainless steel or plastic container, can be harder to clean and must be sterilized to prevent algae and mould growth.

Overall, the LifeStraw Flex is a functional and budget-friendly option for backpackers, and replacement filters are also reasonably priced. Just remember to bring your own cup or canteen to fill with the purified water and to keep extra replacement filters on hand for multi-day trips.

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The Platypus GravityWorks water filter is available in 4 and 6 litre models and has a flow rate of 1.75 litres per minute. It includes a lower reservoir for clean water, so you can have fresh water on tap while the filter works in the background.

The filter uses a hollow fibre membrane to remove 99.99% of bacteria and 99.99% of protozoa, including giardia, cryptosporidium, E. coli, and salmonella. However, it is not designed to filter out urban contaminants such as heavy metals and fluoride.

The Platypus GravityWorks's filters have a lifespan of 1,500 gallons, and the hard-wearing straps and buckles allow you to attach the reservoirs to a tree branch for gravity-fed filtering. Both chambers should be flushed regularly to prevent algae or mould growth.

While the Platypus GravityWorks is pricier than some other options, its long filter lifespan helps justify the cost. It is ideal for camping, but not suitable for city use.

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The Katadyn Gravity BeFree Water Filter has a dirty water reservoir that holds 3 litres, or about two-thirds of a gallon. This may not be enough for groups or for cooking and cleaning, requiring frequent refills from a nearby river. There is no clean water reservoir, so a separate container is needed to store the filtered water.

Despite its small size, weighing just 6.8oz, the Katadyn Gravity BeFree Water Filter has an impressive flow rate of 2 litres per minute, allowing you to quickly fill up an average water bottle in just 15 seconds. The reservoir and output tube are made of plastic, but they are BPA-free and made of durable thermoplastic polyurethane.

The reservoir is also lined with the Katadyn Gravity BeFree Water Filter's EZ-clean membrane, which makes maintenance quick and easy and prevents contaminants such as mould from building up. The filter media is a 0.1-micron hollow fibre membrane that is effective at removing dangerous contaminants, including giardia, cryptosporidium, and bacteria, from backwoods water. However, it does not remove chemical contaminants or heavy metals.

The Katadyn company recommends replacing the filter after about 250 gallons of use, which should be enough for several camping trips. However, this lifespan may not be as long as some other options on the market. Despite this, the Katadyn Gravity BeFree Water Filter is an affordable system that won't break the bank, even when considering the cost of replacement filters.

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The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Perfect Gravity Water Filter for Your Needs

Gravity water filters are simple. However, choosing the right water filter system can be overwhelming. There are different structures, various filter media, and numerous contaminants to consider.

Don't worry, we're here to assist you. In this article, we'll provide all the information you need to know about gravity water filters. Take a load off and let us help you out!

What is a Gravity Water Filter?

A gravity water filter is a type of water filtration system that uses gravity to move water through the filter media. Unlike other water filters that rely on water pressure or electricity, gravity water filters are easy to use and often more affordable. Additionally, the water is in contact with the filter for a longer period of time as it is drawn down, resulting in a cleaner, crisp drinking water.

How Does a Gravity Water Filter Work?

A gravity water filter consists of an upper chamber for storing dirty water and a lower chamber for collecting purified water. The filter media is placed between the two chambers. To use the filter, you fill the upper chamber with dirty water. The water then flows through the filter media and into the lower chamber, where it can be accessed through a spigot. Some gravity water filters designed for camping and backcountry use do not have a lower reservoir. Instead, you control the flow of water through the filter and catch it in a canteen or cup.

Gravity water filters are easy to set up and don't require professional installation.

Gravity Water Filters: The Upsides

Whether for your RV, backcountry camp or just to get pure water on demand at home, gravity water filters are a great choice. Here’s why you might consider opting for this water filter system.

Easy Set-Up: Gravity water filters can be easily installed at home without the need for special expertise. Simply construct the filter system and prime the filter to get started.

Affordability: Gravity water filters also come in a range of sizes, making it easy to find one that fits your needs. These systems are often a good value, though it's important to consider the cost of replacement filters.

Good in an Emergency: Gravity water filters are also a good option in emergency situations. They don't require electricity to function, making them a reliable source of fresh drinking water during natural disasters or power outages.

Gravity Water Filters: The Drawbacks

As with everything, there’s a trade-off. Here are the limitations of these fantastic filtering systems.

Slower Filtering: Compared to units that push water through a filter through pressure, you’re going to have to let nature take its course. They have slower flow rates than other systems, which means it may take longer to filter water.

Labour Intensive: Gravity water filters aren’t quite clean water on tap. They also require manual labour to fill the upper chamber. Often, that means carrying jugs of water across the kitchen which, for some, is a recipe for disaster.

Required Maintenance: Gravity water filters require regular maintenance, including changing the filter and cleaning the water reservoirs. Add it to the list of chores.

Key Factors to Consider When Buying Gravity Water Filter

Gravity water filters do not require a faucet or electrical socket and can be placed anywhere. If you're someone who stays at home or enjoys camping, here are some tips on how to select the best gravity water filter for your needs.

Design: Countertop vs Hanging Bags

Gravity water filters all work in the same way due to the constant force of gravity. However, there are two main design options available.

Countertop Design

Countertop water filters have two chambers: an upper dirty chamber and a lower clean water reservoir with a filter in between. They also have a spigot on the lower chamber for access to purified water. These filters are designed for use in kitchens, hotel rooms, and RVs. They are larger and heavier, so they are not suitable for carrying in a backpack. However, they have a larger capacity and provide easier access to clean water.

Hanging Bag Design

Hanging bag water filters are simple in design. The dirty water chamber is made of high tech thermoplastic polyurethane plastic. The output tube leads to the filter and then to a lower reservoir bag or spigot for access to purified water.

These filters are intended for camping use. They can be hung from trees using straps and used to filter river water.

Hanging bag filters have a rustic appearance and may not fit in with modern kitchen appliances.

When choosing a gravity water filter, consider where it will be used. Gravity filters work in any location, but the right one for you depends on your intended use.

Also Read: 10 Best Portable Water Filters – Reviews and Buying Guide

Capacity

Gravity water filter capacity varies among different systems. It's important to choose a system with a large enough upper chamber to reduce the need for frequent refilling. A capacity of 2-3 gallons is common for a family of four, as recommended by the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. For individuals, smaller units may be sufficient. For outdoor use, hanging bag filter systems typically have a capacity of 0.5-1.5 gallons. It is important to stay hydrated, and having access to purified water on demand can help you maintain good health.

Materials

The materials used in the construction of a gravity water filter are important. Cheap rubber and plastic components can degrade faster, decreasing the lifespan of the filter system and potentially leaking chemicals into the water supply.

Gravity water filters can be made from either stainless steel or plastic. While stainless steel may have a more commercial appearance, it is easier to clean and more hygienic. It can also provide purified water with a cleaner taste and feel.

Transparent plastic reservoirs allow you to see the clear water, which can be appealing. It is important to ensure that all plastic components are BPA-free. BPA (bisphenol A) is an industrial chemical that can contaminate water even after it has been filtered, diminishing the effectiveness of the unit.

Contaminants

There are various contaminants found in water today, which can come from different sources. City water can contain arsenic, lead, microplastics, and pesticides, while rivers and lakes can be contaminated with bacteria and parasites like Giardia.

To choose the best gravity water filter, it's important to identify the contaminants that are of most concern to you. Many hanging bag systems are designed to filter out bacteria and parasites, but may not provide protection against heavy metals, pesticides, and other urban contaminants. To filter out the wide range of contaminants from your water supply, you'll be needing a advanced technology whole house water filter or multi-stage well water filtration system if you get water from private well.

Fluoride

Fluoride is a controversial topic because it is often added to city water supplies, but some people are concerned about its potential negative effects on bones and brain health. While it may benefit teeth, common filter media often can't remove fluoride from water. If you want to filter fluoride from your water supply, check if it is an optional feature or if it comes standard with your gravity water filter system.

Also Read: 10 Best Fluoride Water Filters – Say Goodbye to Fluoride

Filters

Filters are an important part of any water filter system, and it's important to understand the filters in your gravity water filter. Common components include activated carbon, ceramic, and hollow fibre membranes. Each element has a different lifespan, with most filters lasting six to nine months. Keep in mind that the lifespan of your filter may vary based on the quality of your water.

Flow Rate

The flow rate of a gravity water filter is the time it takes for the water to be filtered. Gravity is the only force at work in this type of filter.

Countertop designs tend to have slower flow rates, with a rate of around 0.03 gallons per minute. This means it can take about 5 minutes to fill a standard water bottle. It is a good idea to plan ahead if you will be using a countertop gravity water filter. Faster models have a flow rate of 0.125 gallons per minute.

Conclusion

Our urban water supplies have been contaminated by pesticides, herbicides, and microplastics, a complex mixture of modern chemicals. Gravity water filters offer a simple solution to this problem by purifying water on your kitchen counter using gravity.

In the backcountry, parasites and pests can be found in seemingly pure streams and rivers. When travelling light, it makes sense to use a gravity water filter that utilizes the principles of gravity, as discovered by Isaac Newton in 1665. His theory of gravity has influenced centuries of science and can provide you with purified drinking water.