Top 2 Gravity Water Filters Compared: British Berkefeld vs Berkey (Honest 2025 Review)

When it comes to choosing a reliable water filtration system, you want to make sure you pick one that fits your needs and lifestyle. The debate between British Berkefeld vs Berkey is common among those looking for high-quality, gravity-fed countertop water filters. Understanding the differences and benefits of each can help you make an informed decision that ensures you and your family have access to clean, great-tasting water. This topic is important because water quality directly affects your health and well-being, and investing in the right filter can save you money and hassle in the long run.

Top Picks

• Best Value: British Berkefeld Doulton W9361136 Countertop Water Filter System
• Best Overall: Big Berkey Gravity-Fed Stainless Steel Countertop Water Filter System

How We Compared British Berkefeld vs Berkey

To help you decide between British Berkefeld vs Berkey, we looked at several key factors. These include filtration effectiveness, build quality, ease of use, filter lifespan, and price. We also considered customer feedback to understand real-world performance and any common issues. Both systems use gravity-fed filtration, which means no electricity is required, making them portable and convenient. Price is an important consideration, but so is the quality of materials and how well the filters remove contaminants while preserving beneficial minerals.

British Berkefeld Doulton W9361136

 

If you’re weighing British Berkefeld vs Berkey, the British Berkefeld Doulton W9361136 countertop water filter system is definitely worth a look. It’s a compact, stainless steel gravity-fed filter that fits nicely on your countertop, making it super convenient whether you’re at home, in the office, or even in an RV. What I like about it is how it delivers clean, great-tasting water without the fuss of bottled water or complicated setups. It’s perfect for everyday hydration but also handy when you want to impress guests with fresh, pure water. Plus, it’s been around for nearly 200 years, so you’re getting a product with a solid heritage and proven reliability.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
✓ Excellent water purification with great taste	✗ Filtering process can be a bit slow
✓ Easy to clean and maintain filters	✗ Plastic spout feels cheap to some users
✓ Compact size fits most countertops	✗ Might be small for larger households
✓ Durable stainless steel body
✓ Trusted brand with long history

What People Say

People appreciate how easy it is to use and maintain, with many noting the noticeably better taste of their water. The stainless steel design also gets praise for looking sleek and feeling sturdy, though some wish the tap was metal instead of plastic.

• I’ve used the British Berkey for about 20 years, this is my 2nd one, lost the first in a divorce. Very easy to use and clean the filters! Purifies water excellently! Always taste great!– Kindle Customer
• This has become a very useful asset in my kitchen you can really taste the water difference, but wished I had bought a bigger one as now everybody is suddenly drinking water and I have to keep topping it up, because of course nobody else does it lol. Very well made, I did order the stand and the silver tap for it as it looks nicer.– Linda T.

Long-Term Cost Benefits

While the upfront investment might feel significant, the long-term savings come from cutting out bottled water and reducing plastic waste. The ceramic filters last a long time and are easy to replace, so you’re set for years of clean water without ongoing hassle.

Return on Investment

You get a solid return on investment by having fresh, filtered water on demand that tastes better and is healthier. Plus, the durability of the stainless steel and the longevity of the filters mean fewer replacements and less waste over time.

Situational Benefits

Situation	How It Helps
Living in an apartment without under-sink plumbing	You can still enjoy filtered water without complicated installations since it sits right on your countertop.
Camping or RV trips	Its portability and gravity-fed design mean no electricity needed, perfect for off-grid hydration.
Reducing plastic bottle use	Provides a sustainable alternative to bottled water with easy refill and filter replacement.
Households with sensitive taste buds	Removes chlorine and other contaminants that affect water taste, making drinking water more enjoyable.

Health Benefits

Benefit	Description
Removes bacteria and cysts	Helps protect you from waterborne illnesses by filtering out harmful microorganisms.
Reduces chlorine taste and odor	Improves water flavor by eliminating chlorine and related chemicals.
Filters heavy metals	Removes contaminants like lead and mercury for safer drinking water.
Sediment reduction	Keeps water clear and free from particles that can affect taste and appearance.

Versatility

This system works well in a variety of settings — from your kitchen counter to office desks or even in your RV. Its gravity-fed design means no power source is needed, making it flexible for many lifestyles and locations.

Maintenance Requirements

Cleaning the ceramic filters is straightforward and only needs to be done occasionally to keep flow rates steady. Replacement filters are easy to swap out when needed, and the stainless steel body wipes clean with minimal effort.

Durability

Built with stainless steel and high-quality ceramic filters, this system is designed to last. Users report it holding up well over years of use, making it a dependable choice for long-term water filtration.

Brand Trustworthiness

Doulton has been making water filters since the 1820s, so you’re dealing with a brand that’s stood the test of time. Their British Berkefeld line is known worldwide for quality and reliability, which gives you confidence in your purchase.

Key Benefits

• Countertop Convenience: Compact, stainless steel unit ideal for homes, offices, and RVs.

• No Electricity Needed: Gravity-fed system allows for operation anywhere, without power.

• High-Quality Filtration: Removes bacteria, chlorine, sediment, and heavy metals.

• Large Capacity: Holds up to 1.58 gallons (6 liters) – perfect for daily use.

• Long-Standing Legacy: Utilizes nearly 200 years of ceramic water filtration experience.

• Eco-Friendly: Eliminates the need for bottled water, reducing plastic waste.

• Sleek and Durable: Made in Britain with a premium stainless steel finish.

• Better Taste: Provides pure and great-tasting drinking water.

• Portable Design: Easily movable and fits on most countertops.

• Minimal Maintenance: Easy-to-clean ceramic filters and body.

Rating: 4.4 (total: 130+)

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Big Berkey Gravity-Fed Water Filter

 

When you’re comparing British Berkefeld vs Berkey, the Big Berkey Gravity-Fed Water Filter stands out as a solid choice if you want something that’s easy to use and reliable. It’s a countertop system that doesn’t need electricity or plumbing, so you just pour water in the top and let gravity do the work. What’s cool is that it filters out over 250 contaminants, including chlorine, bacteria, and even some chemicals you might not think about. It’s great for everyday drinking water, cooking, or even when you want to have clean water ready for guests. The stainless steel design looks sleek on your counter and feels sturdy, so it’s not just practical but also nice to have around. Plus, the filters last a long time, so you won’t be fussing with replacements too often.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
✓ Excellent filtration removing a wide range of contaminants	✗ Priming the filters can be a bit tricky at first
✓ No need for electricity or complicated installation	✗ Plastic spigot feels less premium compared to the rest of the unit
✓ Filters last a long time, reducing frequent replacements	✗ Filtering speed is moderate, so it’s not instant
✓ Sleek and durable stainless steel construction
✓ Easy to use—just fill and let gravity do the work

What People Say

Users love how the Big Berkey makes water taste fresh and clean, often comparing it to premium bottled water. Many appreciate the sturdy stainless steel design and the convenience of a gravity-fed system that’s simple to use and maintain.

• My husband and I decided to purchase a water filter after the East Palestine, Ohio train derailment. We didn’t want to go with the typical, mainstream Brita water filter or the one that connects to a faucet. We have had those before and the filter has to be changed frequently. We liked that the Berkey filters out forever chemicals, specifically the chemicals spilled during the derailment. It also filters out over 200 contaminants, chemicals and bacteria. Setup was fairly easy, however priming the elements was challenging due to the adapter that fit onto our faucet which was a struggle. The life span of the filters is amazing, as they only need to be changed every 11,000 gallons. Using the filter is easy. Once set up, just pour water in the top, put the lid back on and you’re good to go. Quality of the materials is unmatched. Lastly, I have to say the water tastes AMAZING. Like water should taste. It rivals the taste of Fiji, our preferred bottled water. Our family initially made fun of us for spending so much money on a water filter, but once they tasted it they plan on purchasing one. I was never a big water drinker before, but now I find myself drinking lots of it. We fill up multiple containers of it whenever we leave the house.– Sarah Albondante
• I am very pleased with this product. It is easy to dispense water and the water tastes great. I added the fluoride/arsenic filters to ensure really pure water. I like the fact that I am still getting important trace minerals as opposed to an RO filter.– Caprice Rose

Long-Term Cost Benefits

Even though the filters might seem like an investment upfront, they last for thousands of gallons, which means you’re saving money over time by avoiding bottled water and frequent filter changes. It’s a cost-effective way to have clean water at home or on the go.

Return on Investment

You get a great return on investment by having fresh, filtered water that tastes better and is safer to drink. The durability of the stainless steel and the long filter lifespan mean fewer replacements and less hassle down the road.

Situational Benefits

Situation	How It Helps
Living in a place without under-sink plumbing	You can still enjoy clean, filtered water without any complicated setup since it sits right on your countertop.
Preparing for emergencies or outdoor adventures	Its gravity-fed design means no power needed, so it’s perfect for camping, RVs, or emergency water supply.
Wanting to reduce plastic bottle waste	Provides a sustainable alternative to bottled water with easy refills and long-lasting filters.
Families with kids sensitive to water taste	Removes chlorine and other chemicals that can affect flavor, encouraging everyone to drink more water.

Health Benefits

Benefit	Description
Removes bacteria and cysts	Protects you from waterborne illnesses by filtering out harmful microorganisms.
Reduces chlorine taste and odor	Improves water flavor by eliminating chlorine and related chemicals.
Filters heavy metals	Removes contaminants like lead and mercury for safer drinking water.
Removes chemical contaminants	Targets over 250 contaminants including pesticides and pharmaceuticals.

Versatility

This filter works well in many settings — from your kitchen counter to outdoor trips or emergency preparedness. Since it doesn’t need power or plumbing, you can take it almost anywhere and still have great-tasting water.

Maintenance Requirements

Priming the filters takes a bit of effort at first, but after that, maintenance is pretty simple. Just clean the filters occasionally to keep the flow steady, and replace them when they reach their lifespan. The stainless steel body is easy to wipe down and keep looking sharp.

Durability

Made with high-quality stainless steel and robust filter elements, the Big Berkey is built to last. Many users report years of reliable use without issues, making it a dependable choice for long-term water filtration.

Brand Trustworthiness

Berkey has built a strong reputation for quality and performance in gravity-fed water filtration. Their filters are independently tested and trusted by many for both everyday use and emergency preparedness.

Key Benefits

• Large Capacity: 2.25-gallon (8.5 liters) capacity – ideal for families.

• Top-Tier Filtration: Removes or reduces over 250 contaminants (e.g., chlorine, bacteria, pesticides).

• Proprietary Black Berkey Filters: Independently tested, long-lasting filters (6,000 gallons/pair).

• No Installation Needed: Simple setup with no plumbing or tools required.

• Portable and Versatile: Great for kitchen, office, camping, or emergencies.

• Cost-Effective: Provides filtered water for just pennies per gallon.

• High-Performance Design: Known as the gold standard in gravity-fed water filtration.

• No Power Required: Operates off-grid using gravity.

• Stainless Steel Construction: Durable, sleek, and easy to clean.

• Long-Term Investment: Reduced need for frequent filter changes saves money over time.

Rating: 4.5 (total: 2940+)

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FAQ

What Are The Main Differences Between British Berkefeld And Berkey Water Filters?

When comparing British Berkefeld vs Berkey, you’ll notice that both are gravity-fed countertop water filters designed to provide clean, great-tasting water without electricity. The British Berkefeld, made by Doulton, often features ceramic filters and a stainless steel dispenser, focusing on portability and ease of use. Berkey systems, on the other hand, are known for their robust filtration capabilities, including the ability to reduce over 200 contaminants like PFAS and chlorine, and they come with Black Berkey purification elements that last up to 11,000 gallons. Berkey units tend to be larger and may filter water faster, while the British Berkefeld is more compact but sometimes slower in processing. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize portability and simplicity or maximum filtration power and capacity.

How Do I Maintain And Use These Filters Effectively In Daily Life?

With either British Berkefeld or Berkey, you’ll want to prime the filters before first use to ensure optimal performance. Priming can be a bit tricky, especially with Berkey’s Black Elements, but following the instructions carefully or watching tutorial videos can help. You’ll fill the upper chamber with water and let gravity do the work, so no power source is needed. Cleaning the ceramic filters on the British Berkefeld is straightforward—just a gentle scrub when flow slows down. For Berkey, you might want to invest in a stand to elevate the unit for easier dispensing. Also, consider upgrading the plastic spigot to a stainless steel one if you want a more durable and aesthetically pleasing setup. Remember, both systems retain beneficial minerals unlike reverse osmosis filters, so your water tastes natural and fresh.

Are There Any Common Concerns I Should Be Aware Of When Choosing Between British Berkefeld And Berkey?

One common concern when looking at British Berkefeld vs Berkey is filter testing and replacement. For example, the British Berkefeld system sometimes doesn’t include the specific red dye needed to test filter effectiveness, which can be frustrating if you want to verify your filters are working properly. Also, some users find the plastic taps on both units less durable and prefer to upgrade to metal versions. Another thing to keep in mind is flow rate; the British Berkefeld can be slower, so if you need faster filtered water, Berkey might suit you better. Lastly, while both systems filter many contaminants, no filter is perfect—some users note that certain chemicals like PFAS might not be fully removed by the British Berkefeld, so consider your water source and filtration needs carefully.

Wrapping Up

Choosing between the British Berkefeld and Berkey water filter systems depends on what matters most to you. The British Berkefeld offers a more affordable option with solid filtration and portability, priced at $250.00 USD. It is praised for its ease of use and water taste, though some users note the plastic tap as a downside. On the other hand, the Big Berkey system, priced at $367.00 USD, is highly regarded for its robust build quality, extensive contaminant removal, and long-lasting filters. While it comes at a higher price, many users find the investment worthwhile for the superior water quality and durability. By understanding these differences, you can select the system that best fits your lifestyle and ensures you have access to clean, refreshing water every day.

	British Berkefeld Doulton W9361136 Countertop Water Filter System	Big Berkey Gravity-Fed Stainless Steel Countertop Water Filter System
Rating	4.4/5 (1000+ reviews)	4.5/5 (2940 ratings)
Highlights	Portable countertop system, stainless steel dispenser, filters up to 500 PPM TDS.	Gravity-fed system, filters over 200 contaminants, includes 2 Black Berkey elements.
Pros	Easy to use and clean, excellent water taste, portable design.	High filter lifespan, easy setup, great water taste.
Cons	Slow water processing, plastic tap, doesn’t filter all PFAS.	Initial filter priming can be challenging, higher price point.
	Buy Now	Buy Now

 

🔍 British Berkefeld vs Berkey Water Filter Comparison

 

✅ Final Verdict: British Berkefeld vs Berkey

When deciding between the British Berkefeld Doulton W9361136 and the Big Berkey Gravity-Fed Water Filter, your choice ultimately hinges on your specific needs, lifestyle, and filtration priorities.

If you’re looking for a compact, portable, and heritage-rich system that’s easy to use and perfect for smaller households, apartments, or mobile setups like RVs, the British Berkefeld is a superb option. It delivers great-tasting water, reduces key contaminants, and embodies nearly two centuries of trusted ceramic filtration.

On the other hand, if your focus is on maximum contaminant removal, larger water capacity, and longer filter life, the Big Berkey stands tall as the top-tier choice. Its ability to reduce over 250+ contaminants, its cost-effectiveness per gallon, and independent lab testing make it a powerful investment—especially for families or those preparing for emergency scenarios.

🏆 Winner: Big Berkey — for those needing comprehensive filtration and long-term value.

🥈 Runner-Up: British Berkefeld — perfect for portability, simplicity, and everyday use.

Both are outstanding products with strong reputations. Choose the one that aligns with your lifestyle, and you’ll enjoy fresh, clean, and safe water every day. 💧