Quick Take
Score: 9.0/10 | The AquaTru makes reverse osmosis accessible to everyone, regardless of living situation. Zero installation, countertop operation, and the most comprehensive NSF certifications of any portable system. Founded by a water safety advocate endorsed by Erin Brockovich, this is serious purification in a portable package.
What We Evaluated
This review uses R3's Water Filter Methodology v1.0.0.
Safety Analysis (40% weight) - Score: 9.4/10
Five NSF Certifications
The AquaTru holds more NSF certifications than any other countertop system:
- NSF 42: Chlorine, taste, odor
- NSF 53: Health contaminants (lead, mercury, VOCs)
- NSF 58: Reverse osmosis performance
- NSF 401: Emerging contaminants (pharmaceuticals)
- NSF P473: PFAS/PFOA removal
This comprehensive verification exceeds most under-sink systems.
83 Contaminants Removed
Verified removal of:
- Lead: 99.1%
- PFAS: 99%
- Chromium-6: 97.2%
- Arsenic: 99.4%
- Fluoride: 93.5%
- Pharmaceuticals: 95%+
BPA-Free Construction
All water-contact surfaces are BPA-free. Important for a countertop appliance handling drinking water.
Advocacy Origins
Founded by water safety researcher who worked with Erin Brockovich on contamination cases. The company's mission is genuinely consumer-focused.
Efficacy Analysis (30% weight) - Score: 9.0/10
True 4-Stage RO
- Mechanical Pre-Filter: Sediment and particulates
- Activated Carbon: Chlorine and organics
- RO Membrane: 0.0001 micron filtration
- Activated Carbon VOC: Final polish
Production Capacity
Produces approximately 1 gallon in 12-15 minutes. The 3-quart clean water tank holds enough for immediate needs while producing more.
No Installation Required
Fill the top reservoir with tap water, press the button, RO water fills the bottom tank. Truly plug-and-play operation.
Filter Life
- Pre-Filter: 6 months (~600 gallons)
- RO Membrane: 24 months (~1,200 gallons)
- VOC Filter: 6 months (~600 gallons)
Annual filter cost approximately $100-120.
Value Analysis (15% weight) - Score: 7.8/10
Upfront Cost: $449
Premium for a countertop unit, but delivers genuine RO purification without installation costs.
Installation Savings
Under-sink RO installation runs $150-400. The AquaTru's zero-install design saves that immediately.
Portability Value
For renters moving frequently, the AquaTru moves with you. Under-sink systems stay behind.
Cost Comparison
| System | Purchase | Install | 5-Year Filters | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AquaTru | $449 | $0 | $500 | $949 |
| Under-Sink RO | $230 | $200 | $300 | $730 |
Costs more long-term, but the portability and zero-install justify the premium for many households.
Usability
Setup: Instant
Unbox, fill reservoir, plug in, press button. Operational in under 5 minutes.
Daily Use
Fill the top tank (1 gallon capacity), water automatically filters to the bottom tank. Dispense from the bottom tank via push-button or pour.
Counter Space
Approximately 14" x 14" footprint. Requires counter space but frees all cabinet space.
Cleaning
Removable tanks are dishwasher-safe (top rack). Monthly cleaning recommended.
The Bottom Line
The AquaTru is the best option for anyone who cannot or prefers not to modify plumbing. Five NSF certifications verify performance that matches under-sink systems, while portable design enables RO purification in any living situation. Worth the premium for renters and those prioritizing flexibility.
