Rating of TOP 10 filters - jugs: characteristics, selection criteria, reviews
The quality of tap water in the countries of the former USSR has traditionally been at a rather low level. This is due to several factors at once: outdated cleaning technologies that use liquid chlorine, and old pipes that re-pollute the water with rust particles and other impurities. Water from wells, viewed by many as a panacea, in fact, is also not without its drawbacks and often requires additional purification. Filter jugs are a budget, but quite effective option, suitable for almost any conditions.
Now on the shelves of shops there is a large selection of jugs of domestic and foreign production, which is why the eyes of an ordinary man literally start to "run up". To help readers decide and choose the right model, I have compiled a rating of popular jug-type filters.
RatingTop 10 filter jugs
In this rating, I tried to evaluate the pros and cons of popular models of filter jugs, to determine the main characteristics that directly affect the effectiveness of their use.
Aquaphor Provence
A modern jug designed for a family of 4-5 people. Equipped with an A5 cartridge - developed by Aquaphor specialists specifically for the purification of highly contaminated tap water, and containing aqualene fibers - a patented filtering material created by a Russian company. In addition, the cartridge enriches the water passing through it with magnesium that is beneficial to human health.
The model has an ergonomic handle and a mechanical replacement calendar on the lid. Water filling is carried out through a special hinged hatch, which can be opened with one hand; it is not necessary to remove the entire cover. The spout is protected by a hinged cover that prevents dust and dirt from entering clean water. The pitcher is available in white, black and cherry colors.
Cartridge included | A5 |
Volume | 4.2 liters |
Basic cartridge resource | 350 l |
Basic Cartridge Features | Removes chlorine and hardness salts, mechanical particles, iron, bacteria. |
Replacement calendar | Yes, mechanical |
- Suitable for a large family;
- Comes with a performance cartridge;
- Available in several colors;
- Saturates water with magnesium.
- Care must be taken to ensure that the cartridge is seated tightly to prevent mixing of clean and dirty water.
Extra large jug. The water vessel contains almost two volumes of the upper bowl. This allows you to add water and put the jug on filtration when the filtered water is half used. That is, there is always a supply, never faced with a lack of water. The filtration quality is excellent. After three months of use, no limescale has appeared on the kettle. I also fill the filtered water into the irrigator - and even just drink water from the filter, not boiled - no complaints.
Please note that the total volume of the filter declared by the manufacturer is the capacity of the fresh water tank + the capacity of the funnel into which the liquid is poured before filtration. In this model, the useful volume is about 3 liters.
Aquaphor Orleans
The Orleans model is similar in its characteristics to the Provence filter. It also holds up to 3 liters of clean water and is equipped with a high-performance A5 cartridge. The main difference between the filter is the best design. Its surface is decorated with embossed wavy lines, giving it a more modern and elegant look. In addition, the manufacturer expanded the color gamut: blue is added to the white, cherry and black options.
Cartridge included | A5 |
Volume | 4.2 liters |
Basic cartridge resource | 350 l |
Basic Cartridge Features | Removes chlorine and hardness salts, mechanical particles, iron, bacteria. |
Replacement calendar | Yes, mechanical |
- Large volume;
- Excellent filtration;
- Convenient ergonomics;
- Additional mineralization of purified water;
- The likelihood of water leaks past the cartridge if it is not installed carefully enough.
I took it for a kettle to boil water without foreign tastes and excessive precipitation. Of course, this filter does not turn ordinary water into life-giving, but there is filtration and it is noticeable. For example, you can take a glass of water from the tap and a glass of water from the same tap, but after filtration on an empty stomach. In my case, the obvious chlorine taste disappears completely and the water becomes softer. A very profitable option if you live alone and there is no special sense in a full-fledged water purifier.
The filter resource declared by the manufacturer is in fact highly dependent on the quality of the water. If it is heavily soiled, the cassette will last less.
Aquaphor Real
A compact jug with a funnel of 800 milliliters and a container for clean water with a capacity of 2.1 liters. It is produced in white and green colors, has a "slot" for cassettes with a diameter of 5 cm, compatible with cartridges B15, B16, A100. The model can be placed in the refrigerator door to have not only clean, but also cold water at hand. Water is poured into the funnel through a hatch that can be opened with the thumb - this allows you to operate the filter with one hand. A lid on the spout protects the contents of the jug from contamination.
Cartridge included | B15 |
Volume | 2.9 liters |
Basic cartridge resource | 170 l |
Basic Cartridge Features | Removal of chlorine, hardness salts, mechanical impurities. |
Replacement calendar | No |
- Compact;
- Fits in the refrigerator door;
- Large selection of cartridges;
- Convenience and ergonomics.
- Low resource of the basic cartridge.
This filter suits me in everything, from color (I have light green) and volume to the quality of the water passed through it. Of course, you can't say whether it cleans water well or not, only analysis can show it. It is enough for me that it removes the tap taste from the water, at least it is not disgusting to drink tea.
BARRIER Grand NEO
Large jug with a total capacity of 4.2 liters. In this case, the volume of the compartment for clean water is 2 liters. Available in 5 colors: Amber, Ruby, Ultramarine, Jade and Anthracite. It is completed with a standard Barrier cartridge, the resource of which is up to 350 liters. If necessary, any cassettes from the "Barrier" can be installed in the jug. The cartridges are not simply inserted, but screwed in, so leaks of dirty water into the clean container are excluded. The filter spout is protected by a hinged cover.
Cartridge included | Barrier Standard |
Volume | 4.2 liters |
Basic cartridge resource | 350 l |
Basic Cartridge Features | Removal of chlorine, hardness salts, organic matter, oil products. |
Replacement calendar | Yes, mechanical |
- Large selection of cartridges;
- Screw-in cassettes;
- Allows you to filter up to 2 liters of water at a time;
- Replacement calendar on the cover.
- To fill in water, the lid must be opened completely.
I always pour water into a jug to the eyeballs (the family is large), so I always choose a strong handle, like in this jug (there are plenty of stories with a sad result on the Internet). Filters water perfectly, simpler cassettes can be bought just for drinking (the water becomes pleasant and clean in taste), for cooking and boiling it is good to take cassettes for hard water, then there will be no scale in the kettle. I'm happy with the jug.
Geyser Matisse Chrome
Elegant cylindrical filter, decorated with a decorative stainless steel ring and available in several colors. Holds 2.6 liters of clean water, and 1.4 liters of untreated water. In the lid of the model there is a shutter door for water intake, on the bottom there are rubberized legs that do not scratch the table and prevent the jug from sliding. The delivery set includes a Geyser 501 cartridge with catalon substance and silver ions, which removes chlorine, heavy metals and other impurities.The jug is compatible with cassettes no. 502, designed for extra hard water, and no. 505, with a reinforced antibacterial component.
Cartridge included | 501 with catalon |
Volume4 liters | 4 liters |
Basic cartridge resource | 350 l |
Basic Cartridge Features | Removal of organic compounds, chlorine, iron, heavy metals |
Replacement calendar | No |
- Capacity;
- Elegant design;
- Good selection of cartridges;
- Convenient sliding hatch on the lid.
- Lack of a calendar.
For a large family just right. The water is quickly filtered. If you boil filtered water, scale and suspensions are not formed, the purest. Especially important when consuming untreated groundwater
Xiaomi Viomi Filter Kettle L1 Standard Edition
High-tech filter from a subsidiary of Xiaomi. The volume of the funnel for dirty water is 1.4 liters, containers for clean water - 2.1 The main feature of the model is the presence of a built-in bactericidal lamp, which prevents contamination of clean water with bacteria. The lamp is charged via a micro-usb port, one charge is enough for 40 cleaning sessions. Uses Yunmi branded cartridges, removes hardness salts, chlorine, and other harmful impurities. Electronic indicators on the lid help you track cartridge life and alert you when you need to replace it.
Cartridge included | Yunmi |
Volume | 3.5 liters |
Basic cartridge resource | Not specified, determined by the jug automatics |
Basic Cartridge Features | Removal of chlorine, hardness salts, bacteria |
Replacement calendar | Yes, electronic |
- Germicidal UV lamp;
- Seven-stage cartridge;
- Electronic replacement calendar;
- Original design.
- High price;
- The need to charge the jug.
I liked the filter. comfortable in using. it performs its main function perfectly: after filtration, the water has no foreign odors and taste, there is almost no scale in the kettle for 3 weeks !!! and the water in our region is hard. maybe a little pricey, but I think it's worth it! I like the life indicator on the lid, but I think you can't focus too much on it. the cartridge is easy to change. I definitely recommend buying!
BARRIER Nova
Compact jug suitable for a family of 2. Equipped with a Barrier Light cartridge with a standard thread for the company's cassettes for installation. Available in blue or green, fits in the refrigerator door. Reliable, provides high-quality filtration. Due to its small size, it is ideal for small kitchens.
Cartridge included | Barrier light |
Volume | 2.5 liters |
Basic cartridge resource | 200 l |
Basic Cartridge Features | Removal of chlorine, hardness salts, organic matter, oil products. |
Replacement calendar | No |
- Screw-in cartridge to prevent leaks;
- Fits in the refrigerator;
- Sturdy handle;
- Nice design.
- Low resource of the basic cartridge;
- There is no replacement calendar.
It performs the function of water purification perfectly. The water is soft, pleasant, in general, the same as it should be after filtration. The jug is easy to clean, easy to operate, convenient. The quality of the filter - Barrier pitchers suits me completely.
Brita Aluna MX +
A modern jug from a well-known German company. Uses new version of Brita Maxtra + cartridges specially designed for hard water, not compatible with old series cassettes. Holds 2.4 liters of filtered water. The jug is ergonomic, made of high-quality plastic, equipped with a cassette replacement calendar with an LED sensor. The spout of the jug is covered with a lid that keeps dust and dirt out.
Cartridge included | Maxtra + |
Volume | 3.6 liters |
Basic cartridge resource | 300 l |
Basic Cartridge Features | Removal of chlorine, hardness salts, heavy metals |
Replacement calendar | Yes, electronic |
The filter is nice and beautiful, with a glowing sensor that signals when water is drained from it about the level of its pollution (green, yellow and red) when it is time to change. One cartridge is designed for 350 liters of water, with regular use it asks to be changed once a month.Filters are oblong with an index +, old filters will not fit this model, only with an index +
BARRIER FIT 2.5 l
Another compact model of the filter jug from the Barrier company, which holds about a liter of clean water and is suitable for one or two people. The filter fits into the refrigerator door and has a modern sporty design. It is equipped with a mechanical replacement calendar (there is a variation with the Opti-Light electronic sensor). Supplied with a cassette Barrier "Standard", compatible with other cartridges of the manufacturer. The filter element should be replaced every 1-2 months.
Cartridge included | Barrier standard |
Volume | 2.5 liters |
Basic cartridge resource | 350 l |
Basic Cartridge Features | Removal of chlorine, hardness salts, heavy metals |
Replacement calendar | Yes, mechanical |
- Compact;
- Stylish;
- Suitable for refrigerator;
- Great resource;
- Filters well;
- High quality plastic;
- Screw-in cartridge.
- Not found.
A compact filter jug that fits easily in the refrigerator door. bright design. easy to use. took to filter baby water for a child. filters well)
Brita Marella XL 3.5 l
Medium sized German pitcher, suitable for families of 2-3 people. Holds up to 2 liters of pure water, is equipped with a proprietary Maxtra + cartridge. The lid is tight, equipped with a convenient hatch for topping up clean water, it does not need to be removed every time. Thanks to the clever design, dirty water does not mix with clean water when using the jug. A mechanical replacement calendar is provided on the lid.
Cartridge included | Maxtra + |
Volume | 3.5 liters |
Basic cartridge resource | 300 l |
Basic Cartridge Features | Removal of chlorine, hardness salts, heavy metals, oil products |
Replacement calendar | Yes, mechanical |
- Sturdy and reliable;
- High quality filtration;
- Excellent ergonomics.
- Expensive cartridges.
We have been using it since 2007 - 8 years. I liked the quality of the filtering. After filtering, no scale builds up on the kettle. A very good thing is a mechanical calendar, you will never forget when you need to change. Still, German quality. True, Maxtra cartridges are made in Britain, but I think they are not worse.
comparison table
For the convenience of readers, I have summarized the main characteristics of all filters presented in the rating into a single table that allows you to quickly compare the model you like.
Model | Set of cart-ridge | Volume | Basic cartridge resource | Basic Cartridge Features | Replacement calendar |
Aquaphor Provence A5 | A5 | 4.2 liters | 350 l | Removes chlorine and hardness salts, mechanical particles, iron, bacteria. | Yes, mechanical |
Aquaphor Orleans | A5 | 4.2 liters | 350 l | Removes chlorine and hardness salts, mechanical particles, iron, bacteria. | Yes, mechanical |
Aquaphor Real | B15 | 2.9 liters | 170 l | Removal of chlorine, hardness salts, mechanical impurities. | No |
BARRIER Grand NEO | Barrier Standard | 4.2 liters | 350 l | Removal of chlorine, hardness salts, organic matter, oil products. | Yes, mechanical |
Geyser Matisse Chrome | 501 with catalon | 4 liters | 350 l | removal of organic compounds, chlorine, iron, heavy metals | No |
Xiaomi Viomi Filter Kettle L1 Standard Edition | Yunmi | 3.5 liters | Not specified, determined by the jug automatics | Removal of chlorine, hardness salts, bacteria | Yes, electronic |
BARRIER Nova | Barrier light | 2.5 liters | 200 l | Removal of chlorine, hardness salts, organic matter, oil products. | No |
Brita Aluna MX + | Maxtra + | 3.6 liters | 300 l | Removal of chlorine, hardness salts, heavy metals | Yes, electronic |
BARRIER FIT 2.5 l | Barrier standard | 2.5 liters | 350 l | Removal of chlorine, hardness salts, heavy metals | Yes, mechanical |
Brita Marella XL 3.5 l | Maxtra + | 3.5 liters | 300 l | Removal of chlorine, hardness salts, heavy metals, oil products | Yes, mechanical |
The device and features of filter jugs
All jug type filters have a similar design and consist of 3 main elements:
- funnels for unfiltered water with a lid;
- drinking water tanks;
- removable cartridge.
Water flows from one container to another through the cartridge under the influence of gravity, while the filter bed will absorb the main contaminants such as chlorine, hardness salts, heavy metal ions.
Jug filters have a number of advantages. They:
- compact;
- mobile;
- do not require connection to the water supply;
- affordable price;
- easy replacement of filter elements.
Due to their small size, such filters will be a good choice for a rented apartment, a trip to the country. At the same time, one cannot but take into account that the pitchers also have certain disadvantages, such as:
- low filtration rate;
- small cartridge resource;
- small volume of containers for clean water;
- lower efficiency compared to flow systems and reverse osmosis filters.
Filter jugs most often cannot cope with heavily contaminated water, at least when using the standard cartridge that comes with the kit.
How to choose a filter jug
When buying any filter, you cannot focus only on its appearance and first impression, since with this approach there is a great chance of not getting what you want and being disappointed in the purchased product. I have compiled a list of tips to help you determine if a filter is right for you.
Plastic quality
All filter jugs are made of plastic, so they come out quite light and comfortable in everyday life. Unfortunately, plastic is not the most durable material, so before buying, be sure to pay attention to the fact that the walls of the jug are thick enough and the handle is reliable. Any squeaks and play should alert you as they increase the risk of the handle cracking or falling off under the weight of the water.
In addition, there must be an icon on the surface of the jug, confirming the use of food-grade plastic by the manufacturer that does not emit harmful substances into the water. All major manufacturers use quality materials, but if you have any doubts, do not hesitate to ask the seller for copies of certificates.
Volume
The size of the jug should be selected depending on the number of people in the family and the daily consumption of drinking water. The largest filter is not always the best, because the filtered water container is leaking. Bacteria can get into it, which will begin to multiply intensively, so it is better to use the filtered liquid within a few hours.
In general, for a family of 3 people, there are enough models with a total volume of 2-3 liters. It makes sense to buy more capacious jugs only if 4-5 consumers live in the house.
Cartridges
Keep in mind that every major manufacturer of jug filters makes their own cartridges of a unique shape for them, and Aquaphor cassettes are not compatible, for example, with Geyser. Before buying a model you like, make sure that there will be no problems with finding consumables in your region. In addition, it makes sense to find out in advance how diverse the line of cartridges from a given manufacturer is, and whether they can solve your problems.
Water quality
The chemical composition of tap water can vary greatly in different cities of Russia, and given the fact that many consumers use wells and wells, the variety of conditions increases even more. Before choosing a filter, I would advise you to make a chemical analysis of the water that needs to be purified in advance, and build on the results obtained. Perhaps, along with the jug, you will have to purchase a more efficient cartridge, or pay attention to more powerful flow systems.
Replacement calendar
It is recommended to change filter cassettes in jugs at least once every one and a half months, as their effectiveness decreases over time, and bacteria can begin to multiply in the backfill.In order not to remember or write down the date of installation of a new cartridge every time - take a model with a replacement calendar on the lid - so the necessary information will always be before your eyes.