When it comes to ensuring clean, pure drinking water, a reverse osmosis (RO) system is one of the most reliable solutions available. It effectively removes up to 99% of contaminants, including lead, chlorine, fluoride, arsenic, and bacteria, giving you safe, great-tasting water. After years of installing and working with various models, I’ve found that the best RO systems are not only efficient but also easy to maintain and produce minimal water waste.
Here are the best reverse osmosis systems for drinking water, based on filtration performance, durability, and user-friendly features.
1. Home Master TMAFC-ERP Full Contact RO System
Key Features:
- Stages: 7-stage filtration system.
- Flow Rate: 75 gallons per day (GPD).
- Filtration: Removes up to 99% of contaminants like chlorine, fluoride, lead, arsenic, and sediment.
- Permeate Pump: Reduces water waste by up to 80% and increases water production.
- Remineralization: Adds calcium and magnesium twice (before and after storage) to improve taste and balance pH.
Why It Stands Out:
The Home Master TMAFC-ERP is one of the best RO systems because of its advanced remineralization and efficiency. The system adds minerals back into the water, improving the taste and making it more alkaline, which many people prefer. Additionally, the built-in permeate pump reduces water waste, making it more environmentally friendly.
Pros:
- Excellent taste: The remineralization process improves water taste and reduces acidity.
- Low water waste: The permeate pump minimizes water waste.
- High flow rate: Delivers faster water production compared to other systems.
- Easy filter changes: Modular filters are easy to replace, and they last longer than standard filters (annual replacement).
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost: More expensive than basic RO systems, but worth it for the added features.
- Requires more space: Due to the permeate pump and extra filtration stages.
Best For:
- Households that want better-tasting, pH-balanced water with minimal waste.
2. iSpring RCC7AK 6-Stage Alkaline Reverse Osmosis System
Key Features:
- Stages: 6-stage filtration with alkaline remineralization.
- Flow Rate: 75 GPD.
- Filtration: Removes over 1,000 contaminants, including lead, fluoride, chlorine, and bacteria.
- Remineralization: Alkaline filter adds back calcium and magnesium for improved taste and pH balance.
Why It Stands Out:
The iSpring RCC7AK offers great value by combining robust filtration with alkaline remineralization, providing excellent-tasting water at an affordable price. It’s especially popular for households that prefer alkaline water, which is believed to offer additional health benefits.
Pros:
- Affordable: Excellent filtration and remineralization at a lower price point.
- Simple installation: Many users can install it themselves.
- Great taste: The remineralization filter balances pH and enhances flavor.
- Clear housing: Easy to monitor the condition of the filters.
Cons:
- Moderate water waste: As with most traditional RO systems, it produces about 2-3 gallons of wastewater for every gallon of purified water.
- More frequent filter changes: Filters need to be replaced every 6-12 months.
Best For:
- Households seeking alkaline water and an affordable RO system without compromising on filtration quality.
3. APEC ROES-50 5-Stage Reverse Osmosis System
Key Features:
- Stages: 5-stage filtration system.
- Flow Rate: 50 GPD.
- Filtration: Removes 99% of contaminants, including arsenic, lead, chlorine, fluoride, and heavy metals.
- NSF Certified: Certified for contaminant reduction, ensuring safe drinking water.
Why It Stands Out:
The APEC ROES-50 is a reliable, high-performance RO system that offers exceptional value for money. It’s built with premium components to provide long-lasting filtration and is one of the most popular systems due to its consistent performance and durability.
Pros:
- Highly affordable: Offers top-quality filtration at a budget-friendly price.
- Durable filters: Filters last up to 12 months, reducing maintenance costs.
- Easy installation: Most homeowners can set it up with basic tools.
- Certified performance: NSF certification ensures it meets water safety standards.
Cons:
- No remineralization: Does not add minerals back into the water, so the taste may be more neutral.
- Moderate water waste: Produces around 3 gallons of wastewater per 1 gallon of filtered water.
Best For:
- Those looking for a basic, budget-friendly RO system with great filtration and no need for remineralization.
4. Express Water RO5DX 5-Stage Reverse Osmosis System
Key Features:
- Stages: 5-stage filtration.
- Flow Rate: 50 GPD.
- Filtration: Removes 99.99% of contaminants, including lead, chlorine, fluoride, bacteria, and arsenic.
- Leak Stop Valve: Automatic shut-off if a leak is detected.
Why It Stands Out:
The Express Water RO5DX is a cost-effective and easy-to-install reverse osmosis system that delivers high-quality drinking water. It stands out for its fast filter changes and built-in leak detection, adding an extra layer of safety.
Pros:
- Affordable: A great entry-level RO system for clean drinking water.
- Easy filter changes: Quick-connect filters are simple to replace.
- Leak detection: Automatic shut-off prevents water damage if a leak occurs.
- High-quality filtration: Removes nearly all contaminants from your water.
Cons:
- No remineralization: The water is purified but may taste flat without added minerals.
- Water waste: Produces about 3 gallons of wastewater per 1 gallon of purified water.
Best For:
- Households looking for an inexpensive, easy-to-maintain RO system for clean drinking water.
5. NU Aqua Platinum Series 6-Stage RO System
Key Features:
- Stages: 6-stage filtration, including UV light sterilization and remineralization.
- Flow Rate: 100 GPD.
- Filtration: Removes 99% of contaminants like lead, fluoride, chlorine, and heavy metals.
- UV Sterilization: Built-in UV light kills bacteria, viruses, and microorganisms.
Why It Stands Out:
The NU Aqua Platinum Series is a high-capacity RO system with UV light sterilization and remineralization, making it one of the most comprehensive systems on the market. It provides ultra-pure water with added minerals for taste, plus the UV filter ensures your water is free from bacteria and viruses—perfect for homes on well water.
Pros:
- UV light: Sterilizes water and eliminates bacteria and viruses.
- Remineralization: Improves taste and balances pH by adding back essential minerals.
- High flow rate: Produces more water than standard systems, ideal for large households.
- Easy maintenance: Quick filter replacements and clear instructions.
Cons:
- Higher cost: More expensive due to the additional UV and remineralization features.
- More space needed: Requires more room under the sink for the extra filtration stages.
Best For:
- Households that need extra protection from bacteria or viruses and want high-quality drinking water with added minerals.
Final Thoughts
When choosing the best reverse osmosis system for drinking water, consider your needs in terms of water quality, taste, and budget. If you want the best all-around system, the Home Master TMAFC-ERP is a top pick for its remineralization and efficiency. For a more affordable option, the iSpring RCC7AK provides great filtration with the added bonus of remineralization, while the APEC ROES-50 offers solid performance at a budget-friendly price.
No matter which system you choose, an RO system will ensure your drinking water is free from harmful contaminants and tastes great!