On-the-counter filtration options like Brita water filters are found in stores nationwide and are arguably the most recognizable household name. Still, are they as effective at purifying water as a more advanced setup like Berkey water filter systems?
While the U.S. has safe water generally, over 21 million Americans drink contaminated water that violates nationwide health standards. Over 60% of Americans are concerned about the safety of what they are drinking, and many make efforts to purify tap water for safe consumption using filters like Berkey systems and Brita pitchers.
Comparing Filtering Capacity
When it boils down to the capacity of a Brita filter compared to that of the potential capacity of Berkey filters, there is a clear winner. The largest Brita pitcher can only handle 1.125 gallons at a time, while the smallest of the Berkey line—the travel system—can handle up to 1.5 gallons at a time. Berkey has several sizes available for consumers, with the largest—the Crown Berkey—offering up to a six-gallon filtration capacity.
Comparing Filter Replacement Cost
Berkey has a higher replacement cost than Brita, but they last up to 6000 gallons and are effective between 2 and 5 years. That’s a lot more output compared to the 40-gallon lifespan of a Brita filter.
Families that use an estimated 3 gallons per day will pay less than 3¢ per gallon over the lifespan of Berkey water filters. Doing the math, the most cost-effective option is Berkey.
A Side-By-Side of Filtering Capabilities & Performance
When choosing a water gravity water filtration system, the most important thing to know is what contaminants they will remove.
Berkey Pros
- Removes 99.9% of all toxic herbicides and pesticides.
- Reduces petroleum pollutants like crude oil, mineral spirits, diesel, gasoline, refined oil, and kerosene by more than 99.99%.
- Tested to remove over 99.9% of Perfluorochemicals.
- Can purify tanked rainwater.
Berkey Cons
- Has to be refilled regularly.
Brita Pros
- Can remove certain pharmaceuticals like Progesterone, Acetaminophen, and Naproxen.
- Can reduce heavy metals like copper, mercury, copper, and chlorine.
Brita Cons
- Does not entirely eliminate other common contaminants or all heavy metal contents.
- Only reduce the amount of lead, herbicides, pesticides, and chlorine, but can’t fully eliminate them.
- Has to be refilled regularly.
The Verdict is In
Brita systems are widely popular and affordable initially, but they will cost you more than Berkey due to filter replacements in the long run. Considering capacity, lifetime costs, and Berkey systems removing more contaminants, it is clear that the Berkey is the better filtration system.
Ready to Buy?
If you’ve decided to go with a Berkey water filtration system, browse our collection of online water filters and systems at USA Berkey Filters to experience the cleanest drinking water you can get anywhere.
