PUR Vs. Brita Faucet Filter: My Take On Clean Water Choices

I’ve always been picky about my drinking water. Growing up, I’d wince at the faint chlorine taste in tap water, so when I moved into my own place, finding a reliable faucet filter became a mission. PUR and Brita dominate the market, and for good reason—they’re affordable, effective, and easy to install.

In this article, I’ll share my hands-on experience comparing PUR and Brita faucet filters, breaking down their pros, cons, and key features to help you decide which one deserves a spot on your kitchen sink.

A Brief Comparison Table

My Journey With Faucet Filters

I’ll be honest—when I first started looking for a faucet filter, I was overwhelmed. The idea of attaching a device to my sink to clean my water sounded simple, but the sheer number of options made it feel like a puzzle. PUR and Brita kept popping up as the heavyweights, so I decided to try both.

Over the past year, I’ve used the PUR FM-3700 and the Brita On Tap Faucet Filtration System in my kitchen, switching between them to get a real sense of how they perform. My goal? Clean, great-tasting water without breaking the bank or complicating my life.

Why Faucet Filters Matter?

Before I get into the specifics, let’s talk about why faucet filters are a game-changer. Unlike pitcher filters, which require constant refilling, faucet filters give you instant access to filtered water right from the tap.

They’re perfect for drinking, cooking, or even filling a pet’s water bowl. Both PUR and Brita promise to tackle common tap water issues like chlorine taste, lead, and other contaminants.

But they’re not identical, and the differences can make or break your experience depending on what you value most—whether it’s contaminant removal, ease of use, or aesthetics.

PUR Faucet Filter: My Experience

I started with the PUR FM-3700, drawn in by its sleek design and promise to remove over 70 contaminants. Installing it was a breeze—no tools needed, just a quick twist onto my standard kitchen faucet. Within minutes, I was sipping water that tasted noticeably cleaner, without that chemical tang I’d grown to dread.

Pros of PUR Faucet Filter

The PUR filter’s biggest strength is its contaminant removal. It’s certified to NSF/ANSI standards 42, 53, and 401, which means it’s been rigorously tested to reduce things like lead (99%), mercury (96%), and even pesticides.

I was impressed by the three-stage filtration technology, which uses activated carbon and ion exchange resin to trap impurities while letting water flow smoothly. The MineralClear filter option, which adds a touch of mineral enhancement for taste, was a nice bonus, though I didn’t notice a huge difference in flavor compared to the standard filter.

Another win is the variety of finishes—Black, Chrome, Metallic Grey, and Stainless Steel. My kitchen has a modern vibe, so the Chrome model blended in perfectly. The 360-degree swivel feature was a lifesaver, letting me move the filter out of the way when washing dishes.

The CleanSensor Monitor, a small light that changes color to signal when the filter needs replacing, was intuitive and kept me from guessing about maintenance.

PUR’s two-year warranty also gave me peace of mind. Knowing I could reach out if something went wrong felt reassuring, especially since I’m not exactly gentle with kitchen gadgets.

Cons of PUR Faucet Filter

But it’s not all smooth sailing. The PUR filter’s lifespan is slightly shorter than Brita’s—100 gallons or about three months. If you’re a heavy user (like me, with my constant coffee-making and cooking), you’ll be replacing filters more often.

At $15–$20 per replacement, those costs add up. I also noticed that PUR doesn’t explicitly mention using BPA-free materials, which raised an eyebrow. In a world where health-conscious consumers are hyper-aware of chemicals, this omission feels like a misstep.

The filter’s bulkier design was another downside. While it’s not massive, it took up more space under my faucet than I’d hoped, occasionally getting in the way when I needed to fill a large pot.

And while the installation was easy for my standard faucet, it’s not compatible with pull-out or handheld faucets, which could be a dealbreaker for some.

Brita On Tap Faucet Filtration System: My Experience

Next, I switched to the Brita On Tap system. Like PUR, it was a snap to install—no plumber required. The first thing I noticed was its compact size, which felt less intrusive than the PUR model.

The water tasted crisp and clean, and I appreciated the simplicity of switching between filtered and unfiltered water with a quick lever flip.

Pros of Brita Faucet Filter

Brita’s filter removes 60 contaminants, which is slightly less than PUR but still impressive. It’s also certified to NSF/ANSI 42, 53, and 401, tackling lead, chlorine, asbestos, and even tiny cryptosporidium cysts.

The filter media—activated carbon and ion exchange resin—matches PUR’s, ensuring solid performance. What stood out was the explicit BPA-free claim, which made me feel better about using it daily.

The filter life is a big win: 100 gallons or up to four months. That extra month compared to PUR’s three-month lifespan means fewer replacements and lower long-term costs. At $12–$18 per filter, Brita’s replacements are also a bit cheaper.

The electronic filter life indicator was straightforward, blinking green when all was well and red when it was time for a change.

Brita’s design is sleek and compact, available in Chrome and White finishes. It didn’t clash with my kitchen’s look, and its smaller footprint made it easier to maneuver around the sink. The one-year warranty is solid, though not as generous as PUR’s.

Cons of Brita Faucet Filter

On the flip side, Brita’s contaminant removal isn’t as extensive as PUR’s. If you’re in an area with heavily contaminated water, those extra 10+ contaminants PUR tackles might matter.

The finish options are also limited—Chrome and White are fine, but PUR’s variety feels more stylish. Like PUR, Brita doesn’t work with pull-out or handheld faucets, which could frustrate some users.

I also found the flow rate a tad slower than PUR’s, especially as the filter neared the end of its life. It wasn’t a dealbreaker, but waiting an extra second or two for my glass to fill got annoying during busy mornings.

Head-to-Head Comparison of PUR And Brita Faucet Filters

Now that I’ve lived with both filters, let’s break down the key features that matter most.

• Contaminant Removal: PUR takes the lead here, removing over 70 contaminants compared to Brita’s 60. Both handle the big hitters—lead, chlorine, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs)—but PUR’s edge in tackling pesticides and mercury makes it a stronger choice if water quality is your top concern. That said, Brita’s performance is still robust, and for most households, the difference might not be noticeable in day-to-day use.
• Filter Life and Cost: Brita wins on filter longevity and cost. Four months versus PUR’s three months means you’re spending less time and money on replacements. A single Brita filter costs about $12–$18, while PUR’s runs $15–$20. Over a year, Brita’s lower cost and longer lifespan could save you $10–$20, which adds up if you’re budget-conscious.
• Design and Aesthetics: This one’s subjective, but PUR’s variety of finishes gives it a slight edge for style-conscious folks like me. The 360-degree swivel is a practical touch, making it easier to use the sink for non-drinking tasks. Brita’s compact design, however, is a godsend for smaller kitchens or anyone who hates bulky gadgets. Both are user-friendly, but Brita feels less obtrusive.
• Ease of Installation: Both filters are a tie here. I had each one up and running in under five minutes, no tools required. They fit standard faucets perfectly, but neither works with pull-out or handheld models, so check your faucet type before buying.
• Maintenance: Maintenance is simple for both. Swap out the filter every few months, and you’re good to go. PUR’s CleanSensor Monitor and Brita’s electronic indicator make it impossible to miss when it’s time for a change. The only difference is Brita’s slightly longer filter life, which means less frequent maintenance.
• Warranty and Support: PUR’s two-year warranty outshines Brita’s one-year offering. I didn’t need to use either, but knowing PUR has my back for an extra year feels reassuring. Both brands have decent customer support, but PUR’s longer warranty tips the scale.

Also Read: Is pHountain Water Worth It?

Real-World Performance: My Daily Use

To give you a sense of how these filters hold up, let me walk you through a typical day. Mornings start with filling my coffee maker—both filters delivered clean water fast enough to keep my caffeine routine on track.

For cooking, I used filtered water for pasta and soups, and both PUR and Brita eliminated the slight metallic taste I’d noticed in my tap water. My dog’s water bowl? Always filled with filtered water, and I never worried about contaminants.

One difference I noticed was flow rate. PUR’s water came out a bit faster, which was great for filling pots quickly. Brita’s slower flow wasn’t a huge issue, but it felt noticeable when I was in a rush. Taste-wise, both were excellent—crisp, clean, and free of any chemical aftertaste.

Who Should Choose PUR?

PUR is your pick if you prioritize maximum contaminant removal and stylish design. It’s ideal for:

• Households in areas with poor water quality, where removing every possible contaminant matters.
• People who love options—those extra finishes and the MineralClear filter add flair.
• Anyone who values a longer warranty for peace of mind.

But be ready to spend a bit more on replacements and deal with a slightly bulkier design.

Who Should Choose Brita?

Brita’s your go-to if you want a budget-friendly, low-maintenance option. It’s perfect for:

• Cost-conscious buyers who want cheaper filters and longer lifespans.
• Small kitchens where a compact filter is a must.
• Anyone prioritizing BPA-free materials for health reasons.

Just know you’re sacrificing a few contaminants and finish options compared to PUR.

Which One To Pick?

After months of testing, I lean toward Brita for its affordability and compact design. The longer filter life and lower replacement costs make it a practical choice for my busy life.

But if I lived in an area with questionable water quality, PUR’s superior contaminant removal would probably sway me. It’s a close call, and your priorities—whether cost, style, or filtration power—will tip the scales.

Also Read: Comparison of Frizzlife And Waterdrop.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Wrapping Up

You can’t go wrong with either PUR or Brita faucet filters—they both deliver clean, tasty water with minimal hassle. I’ve shared my journey to help you weigh their pros and cons, from PUR’s robust contaminant removal to Brita’s budget-friendly edge.

Think about what matters most to you: Is it cost, style, or filtration power? Pick the one that fits your kitchen and lifestyle, and you’ll be sipping worry-free water in no time.