When it comes to the health of your family, clean drinking water should never be a compromise. With so many contaminants found in tap water today—like lead, chlorine, PFAS, and microplastics—it’s no wonder more people are turning to home filtration systems. But not all filters are made the same.
Two of the most trusted names in countertop water purification are AquaTru and Berkey. Each system offers unique benefits, from high-powered reverse osmosis to reliable gravity-fed filtration. But how do you decide which one fits your needs better?
In this guide, we’ll compare AquaTru vs Berkey based on real performance, features, pros and cons, and what actual users are saying. Whether you want the latest technology or a dependable non-electric solution, this side-by-side review will help you make a smart, informed decision for your home and your health.
Let’s dive into how these systems work, what they remove, and which one gives you the most value in 2025.
How to Choose Between AquaTru and Berkey
To decide between AquaTru and Berkey, consider several key factors: filtration technology, ease of use, maintenance, price, and water taste. You’ll want to know how each system removes contaminants, how much effort is involved in setup and upkeep, and whether the cost aligns with your budget. Additionally, think about your water source and specific needs, such as removing PFAS chemicals or ensuring mineral retention. These criteria will guide you toward the system that fits your lifestyle best.
AquaTru Classic
When you’re caught in the Aquatru vs Berkey debate, AquaTru Classic stands out as a countertop water purifier that’s easy to set up and use without any plumbing hassle. It uses a 4-stage reverse osmosis system that’s certified to remove a wide range of contaminants, including those pesky PFAS chemicals. Whether you’re filling up your glass for daily hydration or prepping water for cooking and special occasions, it delivers clean, crisp water that tastes noticeably better than tap. Plus, it’s compact enough to fit on your kitchen counter without taking over the space. If you want a reliable purifier that’s straightforward and effective, AquaTru is definitely worth considering.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✓ Highly effective at removing a wide range of contaminants | ✗ Filtered water dispenser button can be tricky to control the flow |
| ✓ Simple setup with no plumbing needed | ✗ Some users experienced issues with pump cycling due to sensor sensitivity (fixed in newer models) |
| ✓ Compact and countertop-friendly | ✗ Requires periodic descaling depending on water hardness |
| ✓ Filters are affordable and last a long time | ✗ A few reports of parts failing after extended use |
| ✓ Automatic water tank sensor for convenience |
What People Say
People appreciate how AquaTru balances effective filtration with ease of use. The quick filter changes and the automatic sensor for the water tank get a lot of praise, making it a hands-off experience once set up. Some users have noted the compact size fits well in smaller spaces, and the water taste improvement is noticeable. Customer service responsiveness also comes up as a positive point.
- We’ve been using AquaTru daily for over six years now, and the water quality has been consistently amazing. The filters are easy to replace and last a good amount of time, which makes maintenance pretty manageable. One feature I really like is the filtered water tank sensor that stops filtering when full and starts again as you use water, so you don’t have to babysit it. The water tastes great, and the system is quieter and faster than some older models we had. Customer service was also helpful when we had a broken power switch, sending a replacement base quickly. Overall, it’s become a staple in our home routine.– RussBear
- After doing some research, I found AquaTru to have multiple certifications and it’s been working great for me. It’s easy to use and the water tastes clean and fresh. I’ve been happy with the performance and feel confident about the quality of water it provides.– shriram
Health Benefits At A Glance
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Removes harmful chemicals | Effectively filters out lead, arsenic, chlorine, fluoride, nitrates, and PFAS, reducing your exposure to toxins. |
| Improves taste and odor | By removing chlorine and other contaminants, your water tastes fresher and cleaner. |
| Supports digestive health | Cleaner water can help reduce stomach discomfort linked to impurities in tap water. |
| Reduces microplastics | Unlike bottled water, AquaTru’s filtration helps you avoid ingesting microplastics. |
Versatility
AquaTru works well for everyday drinking water, cooking, and even for pets. Its compact size makes it a good fit for apartments, RVs, or offices. You can easily keep extra filtered water tanks in the fridge for quick access, which is handy for entertaining or busy days.
Maintenance
You’ll need to replace filters every 6 months to 2 years depending on usage, and occasionally descale the system if you have hard water. Cleaning the tanks and dispenser is straightforward but worth scheduling regularly to keep everything fresh.
Innovation
AquaTru’s patented Ultra Reverse Osmosis technology miniaturizes commercial-grade filtration into a countertop unit. The automatic sensor that stops filtering when the tank is full is a neat feature that saves water and energy, and the twist-and-seal filters make replacements quick and mess-free.
Brand Trust
AquaTru has built a solid reputation over the years, backed by certifications and positive long-term user feedback. Their customer service has been responsive in handling issues, which adds peace of mind when you invest in their system.
Eco Friendliness
By cutting down on bottled water use, AquaTru helps reduce plastic waste. The filters last a long time, replacing thousands of plastic bottles, and the system itself is designed to be energy efficient with its automatic filtering stop feature.
Why You’ll Like It
- Certified to remove 83 contaminants including PFAS
- No installation or plumbing required
- Compact countertop design fits easily in most kitchens
- Filters last from 6 months to 2 years with easy twist-and-seal replacements
- Automatic filtering stops when tank is full and resumes as needed
Rating: 4.1 (total: 1090+)
Big Berkey
If you’re caught in the Aquatru vs Berkey debate, the Big Berkey is a solid choice when you want a gravity-fed water filter that’s simple but effective. It’s designed to sit right on your countertop and doesn’t need any plumbing or electricity, which means you can just fill it up and let it do its thing. Whether you’re grabbing a glass of water throughout the day or using it to prep meals, it delivers clean, great-tasting water that many users say rivals bottled brands. The stainless steel build feels sturdy and looks sleek, so it fits nicely in most kitchens without feeling bulky. It’s especially handy if you want a reliable system that can handle a family’s daily needs and even be ready for emergency situations.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✓ Effective at removing a wide range of contaminants | ✗ Priming filters can be tricky initially |
| ✓ No electricity or plumbing needed | ✗ Plastic spigot may feel less durable (some upgrade to stainless steel) |
| ✓ Long-lasting filters reduce maintenance frequency | ✗ Water flow rate is slower compared to some electric systems |
| ✓ Sturdy and attractive stainless steel design | ✗ Not ideal if you want instant filtered water on demand |
| ✓ Simple operation suitable for everyday use |
What People Say
People often mention how the Big Berkey makes water taste noticeably better than tap, with many saying it rivals premium bottled water. Users appreciate the long filter life and the fact that it doesn’t need electricity or complicated installation. Some note that priming the filters can be a bit challenging at first, but once set up, it’s a breeze to use daily. The sturdy stainless steel build and sleek look also get positive mentions.
- My husband and I decided to purchase a water filter after the East Palestine, Ohio train derailment. We didn’t want the usual Brita or faucet filters since those need frequent changes. The Berkey filters out forever chemicals, including those spilled during the derailment, plus over 200 contaminants. Setup was fairly easy, though priming the filters was a bit tricky with our faucet adapter. The filters last a long time — up to 11,000 gallons before needing replacement. Using it is straightforward: just pour water in, put the lid on, and you’re set. The water tastes amazing, almost like Fiji bottled water. Our family was skeptical at first but now they want one too. I wasn’t a big water drinker before, but now I find myself drinking a lot more. Definitely worth trying.– Sarah Albondante
- I’m very happy with this product. It’s easy to dispense water and the taste is great. I added fluoride/arsenic filters to make sure the water is really pure. I like that it still keeps important trace minerals, unlike reverse osmosis systems. Overall, it’s simple to use and gives me confidence in the water quality.– Caprice Rose
Health Benefits At A Glance
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Removes harmful contaminants | Filters out bacteria, viruses, heavy metals, chlorine, and over 250 other contaminants, helping you drink safer water. |
| Preserves beneficial minerals | Unlike reverse osmosis, it keeps essential trace minerals in your water for better taste and health. |
| Improves water taste and odor | Eliminates chlorine and other chemicals that cause unpleasant taste or smell. |
| Supports immune health | By reducing exposure to harmful pathogens and chemicals, it helps protect your body’s natural defenses. |
Versatility
The Big Berkey works well for daily drinking water, cooking, and even for pets. Its countertop design means you can move it around easily or take it with you during trips or emergencies. It’s a great all-around system if you want a reliable, no-fuss filter that doesn’t rely on power or plumbing.
Maintenance
You’ll need to prime the filters before first use, which can take a little patience. After that, the filters last a long time—up to 6,000 gallons each—so replacements are infrequent. Cleaning the stainless steel chambers occasionally keeps everything looking fresh. Some users upgrade the plastic spigot to stainless steel for durability.
Innovation
Berkey’s filtration elements use a proprietary blend of media that’s been independently tested to remove a wide range of contaminants without electricity or plumbing. The gravity-fed design is simple but effective, making it a classic choice for those who want dependable water purification without complexity.
Brand Trust
Berkey has been a trusted name in gravity-fed water filtration for years, with a strong reputation backed by thousands of positive reviews worldwide. Their filters are known for quality and longevity, and the company offers solid warranties and customer support.
Eco Friendliness
By filtering tap water at home, the Big Berkey helps reduce reliance on bottled water, cutting down plastic waste. The long-lasting filters mean fewer replacements and less environmental impact over time compared to disposable filter cartridges.
Why You’ll Like It
- Removes over 250 contaminants including chemicals and bacteria
- Gravity-fed system requires no electricity or plumbing
- Stainless steel design is durable and kitchen-friendly
- Filters last up to 6,000 gallons each before replacement
- Easy to use: just fill, wait, and pour fresh water
Rating: 4.5 (total: 2940+)
FAQ
What Are The Main Differences Between Aquatru And Berkey Systems?
When comparing Aquatru vs Berkey, you’ll notice that Aquatru uses a patented Ultra Reverse Osmosis technology that actively filters water using electricity, while Berkey relies on a gravity-fed system with its Black Berkey Elements. Aquatru is a countertop unit that plugs in and produces purified water fairly quickly, removing a wide range of contaminants including PFAS, lead, and fluoride. Berkey, on the other hand, doesn’t require power and filters water more slowly but retains beneficial minerals. If you want a system that’s more automated and removes nearly all dissolved solids, Aquatru might suit you. If you prefer a simpler, power-free option that’s portable and keeps some minerals in your water, Berkey could be the better fit.
How Easy Are These Systems To Use And Maintain In Daily Life?
With Aquatru vs Berkey, your experience will differ. Aquatru is plug-and-play with a compact design similar to a coffee machine, so you just fill the tanks and let it run. It does require occasional filter replacements and descaling, especially if you have hard water, but the filters are easy to swap out and the system alerts you when maintenance is needed. Berkey is very straightforward — you pour water into the top chamber and gravity does the rest. It doesn’t need electricity or plumbing, which is great for flexibility, but priming the filters initially can be a bit tricky. Berkey filters last a long time, but you’ll want to clean the chambers regularly to avoid buildup. Both systems need some upkeep, but Aquatru’s digital features can make it easier to track.
Are There Any Practical Considerations I Should Know Before Choosing Between Aquatru And Berkey?
Definitely. When deciding between Aquatru vs Berkey, consider your countertop space and water needs. Aquatru takes up more space and requires a power outlet, so it’s best if you have a dedicated spot near your kitchen. It produces purified water faster but also generates wastewater during filtration, so you’ll need to manage that. Berkey is more compact vertically and doesn’t need power, making it ideal for camping, emergencies, or places without electricity. However, it filters water more slowly and requires manual refilling. Also, if you want to test your Berkey filters’ effectiveness, be aware that you might need a specific red dye to check filter performance, which can be tricky to find in some regions. Both systems have strong reputations, so your choice depends on how you want to balance convenience, portability, and filtration style.
Wrapping Up
Both AquaTru and Berkey provide excellent water filtration solutions with distinct advantages. AquaTru’s advanced reverse osmosis technology offers comprehensive contaminant removal and convenience, while Berkey’s gravity-fed system delivers durability and ease of use without electricity. By evaluating your specific needs and preferences, you can confidently choose the water filter that best supports your health and hydration.
| AquaTru Classic | Big Berkey | |
|---|---|---|
 |
|
|
| Rating | 4.1/5 (1000+ reviews) | 4.5/5 (2,940 ratings) |
| Highlights | 4-stage reverse osmosis system, removes 83 contaminants including lead and PFAS. | Gravity-fed system, filters out over 200 contaminants, including chlorine. |
| Pros | Compact design, easy to use, effective at removing contaminants. | Long-lasting filters, no electricity required, easy to use. |
| Cons | Higher upfront cost, some maintenance required. | Initial setup can be tricky, filters are pricey. |
| Buy Now | Buy Now |
This Roundup is reader-supported. When you click through links we may earn a referral commission on qualifying purchases.
