Waterdrop vs. Aquatru Countertop Reverse Osmosis Filters

When it comes to ensuring the water you drink is pure and free of contaminants, reverse osmosis (RO) systems are among the most popular and effective solutions available. 

In this article, we compare two notable countertop RO filters: the Waterdrop N1 and the AquaTru system. 

We’ll delve into their features, performance, and what users have to say, helping you make an informed decision on which system might be best for your home.

Keep Reading: Top Rated Reverse Osmosis Systems Review + Buying Guide

Waterdrop N1  vs. AquaTru RO System

To begin, let’s look at the basic specifications and offerings of both the Waterdrop N1 and the AquaTru RO systems, as presented on their official websites.

Here’s a snapshot of what it brings to the table:

Filtration Comparison

The heart of any reverse osmosis water filter is its filtration process. It’s where the magic happens, transforming tap water into a clean and safe beverage. Both Waterdrop and AquaTru have their unique approaches to this process, employing different stages of filtration to achieve the desired purity levels. 

Let’s take a closer look at how these systems work to remove contaminants and improve the taste and quality of your water.

Waterdrop 

The Waterdrop N1 system is designed with a compact and sleek form, but it’s the internal multi-stage filtration process that truly defines its capabilities. This system uses a combination of pre-filters, reverse osmosis membranes, and post-filters to deliver water that not only tastes great but is also free from harmful substances.

The 2-stage filtration system is equipped with a 0.0001 micron RO membrane that eliminates harmful impurities. It also features a UV light that can be utilized to kill bacteria and viruses on an hourly basis.

See Our Full Review Of the Waterdrop N1

AquaTru

On the flip side, the AquaTru system takes pride in its certified reverse osmosis technology. 

With a similar multi-stage process that includes a pre-carbon filter and a specialized VOC filter, AquaTru aims to reduce a wide spectrum of chemical and physical contaminants, ensuring that every sip is as pure as nature intended.

Filter Lifespan

A crucial aspect of any reverse osmosis system is the longevity of its filters. Not only does this affect the quality of the water over time, but it also plays a significant role in the overall maintenance cost and effort. A longer filter lifespan means fewer replacements, less hassle, and more cost savings in the long run.

Let’s examine how the Waterdrop N1 and AquaTru systems measure up in terms of filter lifespan.

Waterdrop 

The Waterdrop N1 boasts a sophisticated design that promises efficient filtration. Typically, reverse osmosis filters require periodic replacement to maintain optimal performance, so it’s important for potential users to consider this when choosing a system. 

Replacing the carbon filter every 6 months and the RO membrane filter every 18 months is ideal to maintain optimal performance and purity in this system.

AquaTru

AquaTru, on the other hand, offers transparent information about the lifespan of its filters. 

With a pre-carbon filter that needs changing every 6 months or after 600 gallons, and a reverse osmosis membrane good for 24 months or 1200 gallons, users can plan their maintenance schedule with precision. 

The VOC filter, which lasts for 12 months or 360 gallons, ensures that the water remains free from volatile organic compounds for a year.

Contaminants Removed

A top-tier RO system should not only reduce these contaminants but do so to a degree that meets or exceeds industry standards. 

In this section, we’ll compare the Waterdrop N1 and AquaTru systems to see how they fare in purifying your water and safeguarding your health.

Waterdrop N1

AquaTru

The entire list of contaminants can be found here

Installation and Maintenance

The ease of setting up a water filtration system and maintaining it over time is a significant consideration for any homeowner. A system that is cumbersome to install or requires frequent and complicated maintenance can be a major deterrent. 

In this section, we will explore the installation process and ongoing maintenance requirements for the Waterdrop N1 and AquaTru systems, providing clarity on what users can expect in terms of effort and time investment. 

Waterdrop

The Waterdrop N1 is designed with user convenience in mind. Its countertop design means no complex plumbing alterations are necessary, and the installation process is touted to be straightforward and quick. 

Maintenance, primarily consisting of regular filter changes, is also designed to be a simple procedure that homeowners can perform without professional assistance.

AquaTru

Similarly, the AquaTru system emphasizes ease of installation with a design that requires no plumbing or permanent changes to your kitchen layout. The clear instructions and quick-connect filters aim to make both the initial setup and ongoing maintenance as user-friendly as possible. 

Regular filter replacements are made easy, with no tools required and a clear indication of when it’s time to change each filter.

General Performance Comparison 

When it comes to choosing a countertop reverse osmosis system, performance is more than just a list of features; it’s about the real-world experience of using the system day in and day out. 

Users are rightly concerned about not just the quality of the water but also the longevity of the system, the taste of the filtered water, its efficiency in terms of water and energy use, and the speed at which they can fill a glass or a pitcher. 

In this section, we’ll dive deep into the performance of the Waterdrop N1 and AquaTru systems, addressing these concerns directly.

Waterdrop

Longevity

The Waterdrop N1 is built with durability in mind. The longevity of any RO system is closely tied to the maintenance of its filters, and the Waterdrop N1’s design facilitates easy access and replacement, which is crucial for maintaining the system’s performance.

As long as users are on top of replacing the carbon filter every 6 months and the RO membrane filter every 18 months, there should be no issues in terms of longevity.

Taste

One of the most immediate indicators of a system’s performance is the taste of the water it produces. 

Users of the Waterdrop N1 report a significant improvement in the taste of their water, indicating that the system effectively removes the contaminants that can cause unpleasant flavors.

Efficiency

Efficiency in reverse osmosis systems can refer to both water and energy usage. The Waterdrop N1 is designed to minimize waste, with a 3:1 pure-to-drain ratio that reduces the amount of water discarded during the filtration process. 

Energy efficiency is also a consideration, and the system operates with a mind toward conserving electricity, making it both environmentally and economically friendly.

Speed

The 75 GPD rate at which the Waterdrop N1 filters water is competitive, ensuring that users don’t have to wait long to enjoy clean water. 

The system’s design balances thorough filtration with the convenience of quick access, a balance that is well-received by users.

AquaTru

Longevity

AquaTru systems are known for their robust construction and reliable performance over time. 

The clear maintenance guidelines and filter replacement indicators contribute to the system’s longevity, as they help ensure that the system is always operating at peak efficiency.

Taste

The AquaTru system also scores highly on taste, with many users noting that the water tastes fresh and clean. This is a testament to the system’s ability to remove a wide range of taste-affecting substances from the water.

Efficiency

AquaTru takes pride in its efficient use of water, boasting a high ratio of pure water to wastewater. This is an important factor for environmentally conscious consumers who are concerned about the ecological impact of their water usage. 

The system is also energy efficient, which can contribute to lower utility bills.

Speed

The speed of filtration is another strong point for the AquaTru system. It is designed to quickly process water without sacrificing the quality of filtration, which means less waiting time for a glass of water and more time enjoying it.

Cost Comparison

The decision to invest in a countertop reverse osmosis system often comes down to cost. However, the true cost of such a system isn’t just the price you pay at checkout; it includes the long-term expenses of filter replacements, energy consumption, and potential maintenance. 

	Waterdrop N1	AquaTru RO
Initial Cost	$299.00	$449.00
Filter Replacement	$49.99/every 18 months; $35.99/every 6 months	$80.00/every 12 months

Pros and Cons Waterdrop vs. AquaTru

When weighing the options between two leading countertop reverse osmosis systems, it’s essential to consider the advantages and drawbacks of each. 

This comparison will help highlight the strengths and potential limitations of the Waterdrop N1 and AquaTru systems, providing a balanced view to inform your decision.

Pros

To provide a clear and concise overview, we’ve distilled the advantages of each system into a straightforward chart. 

Here’s a snapshot of the pros for the Waterdrop and AquaTru systems, showcasing what sets each apart in the realm of water purification.

Waterdrop N1 Pros	AquaTru RO Pros
Compact Design: The Waterdrop N1 boasts a sleek and modern design that takes up minimal counter space.	Certified Performance: AquaTru’s filtration system is certified to remove a wide range of contaminants, giving users confidence in the quality of their water.
Ease of Installation: With a simple setup process, the Waterdrop system can be up and running quickly without the need for professional installation.	Filter Change Indicator: The system includes an indicator for filter changes, taking the guesswork out of maintenance.
Water-Saving Technology: The system is designed to reduce water waste, which is a common issue with traditional RO systems.	Quick Filtration: AquaTru provides water quickly, without a long wait time, which is convenient for busy households.
Taste Improvement: Users report a noticeable improvement in water taste, indicating effective removal of contaminants that affect flavor.	No Plumbing Required: Like the Waterdrop, AquaTru also requires no plumbing alterations, making it an easy addition to any kitchen.

Cons

Understanding the potential drawbacks of a product is just as important as knowing its benefits. 

The following chart outlines the cons associated with the Waterdrop and AquaTru systems, helping you to consider any possible downsides in your decision-making process.

Waterdrop N1 Cons	AquaTru RO Cons
Filter Replacement Frequency: One of the filters, the carbon filter, needs to be replaced every 6 months.	Size: While still a countertop model, the AquaTru system may be bulkier than the Waterdrop, which could be a consideration for those with limited space.
Initial Cost: The upfront cost might be higher compared to other systems, which could be a barrier for some households.	Price of Filters: The cost of proprietary filters over time can add up, potentially making the system more expensive in the long run.

Customer Reviews and Concerns 

Waterdrop N1

AquaTru

Waterdrop Vs. AquaTru: Which Should You Choose?

Choosing between the Waterdrop N1 and AquaTru countertop reverse osmosis systems comes down to individual needs and preferences. 

If you prioritize sleek design and water-saving features, the Waterdrop N1 may be the ideal choice for your home. 

On the other hand, if you value certified performance and a user-friendly maintenance indicator, AquaTru could be the system that best aligns with your requirements. 

Other Notable Waterdrop Models:

Waterdrop K6 For Hot Water

Both systems offer high-quality filtration capabilities and ease of use, but they cater to different concerns and budgets. Those who are environmentally conscious may lean towards the Waterdrop for its efficiency, while users looking for a tried and tested product with a broad contaminant removal spectrum might prefer AquaTru. 

Ultimately, the decision should be based on which system’s strengths align most closely with what is most important for you and your household’s water consumption needs.