10 Best Portable Water Filters of 2021 [Reviews & Buying Guide]
Portable water filters do a great job of transforming water from the lakes, streams, spring, and rivers into safe and clean drinking water. They get rid of protozoan cysts, bacteria, micro-plastics, particulates, and chemicals. Since they are portable, these water filters are perfect for life on the go. They make a decent purchase for backpackers, hikers, camping enthusiasts, etc. Portable water filters are also ideal for emergency preparedness. In the following reviews, we have put together information about the best-selling brands for a sweat-free purchase.
Table of Contents
- A List of 10 Best Portable Water Filter Reviews
- 1. Sawyer Products Squeeze Water Filtration System
- 2. Sawyer Products Gravity Water Filtration System (One-Gallon)
- 3. Katadyn Vario Water Filter, Dual Technology Microfilter
- 4. Survivor Filter PRO 0.01 Micron Water Filter
- 5. GRAYL Ultralight Water Purifier [+ Filter] Bottle
- 6. Purewell Water Purifier Pump with Replaceable Carbon Water Filter
- 7. LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottles
- 8. LifeStraw Family 1.0 Portable Gravity Water Purifier
- 9. joypur 0.01 Micron 3-Stage Portable & Outdoor Water Filter
- 10. Katadyn Hiker Pro Water Filter, Transparent
- Factors to Consider When Buying Portable Water Filters
A List of 10 Best Portable Water Filter Reviews
1. Sawyer Products Squeeze Water Filtration System
This portable water filter makes it easy to access clean water when you are far away from home. It is perfect for traveling abroad, camping, fishing, hiking, and emergency prep. It is rated to 0.1-micron absolute filtration, and this means it can remove up to 99.99999-percent of all bacteria. In simpler terms, when you have this water filtration system with you while on the go, e.Coli, Salmonella, leptospirosis, etc. will be the least of your concern.
This water filtration system also gets rid of up to 99.9999-percent of all protozoa, including cryptosporidium and giardia. Plus, it gets rid of 100-percent of microplastics. It is effortless to use, as all you need to do is fill up the included water pouch (reusable) at any water source and then screw the filter onto the pouch. Once you have done that, you can squeeze water into a water bottle or drink directly from the filter.
- Comes with a manufacturer’s limited lifetime warranty
- Hollow fiber membranes allow water to enter into the core
- Thicker fiber walls combine with smaller inner diameter to make fibers 75-percent stronger
2. Sawyer Products Gravity Water Filtration System (One-Gallon)
All the crucial accessories are included in this portable water filter. They include a 1-gallon bladder, MINI water filter, cleaning coupling, cleaning plunger, and gravity hose with adapters. All these make it easy to create a gravity-based water filtering system. The 0.1 Micron absolute inline filter fits perfectly in the palm of your hand. It is incredibly lightweight, as it weighs just 2 ounces. This system also features dual-threaded MINI that lets you screw the pull/push cap onto the filter to allow for easy on/off functionality. Furthermore, this water filtration system is versatile and great for emergency prepping, disaster kits, backcountry treks, and camping.
- Lightweight, wide-mouth bladder fills quickly and easily
- Carry handle further improves convenience when you are on the go
- 100-percent of MINI units are individually tested 3X to performance standards by Sawyer
- Dual-Threaded MINI can be cleaned and reused almost indefinitely with no costly cartridges to replace
3. Katadyn Vario Water Filter, Dual Technology Microfilter
The Katadyn Vario Water Filter also comes with everything you need to drink clean, healthy water. These include a deluxe carry bag, cleaning pad, and prefilter. It is a high-performance portable water filter that is very simple to handle and incredibly efficient. It will make your on-the-go life much more convenient than ever before by eliminating the need to carry gallons of water. Also, it is suitable for backpacking, and it is equipped with activated carbon that reduces chemicals. This microfilter also gets rid of particles to make further water clear and very drinkable. Dual piston technology is another reason why you should get this water filter. It requires minimum effort, yet it gives out maximum output.
- Produces up to 2qt per minute in the faster flow mode and 1qt per minute in more extended life mode
- Adapter base attaches directly to water bottles
- Output hose can be used to fill larger containers or hydration systems
4. Survivor Filter PRO 0.01 Micron Water Filter
One reason why this portable water filter is here is that it is very safe to use. It is tested at several USA labs to give you peace of mind knowing that you are getting something that delivers. It removes 99.999-percent of Protozoa, i.e., Parasites, Giardia, and Cryptosporidium. Besides, it also removes 99.999-percent of tested VIRUS (Phi X-174), BACTERIA, and STAPH; 93-percent of lead, and 99.5-percent mercury. This water filter works so effectively it can go toe to toe with most home systems. Also, this water filter is a dual hollow fiber membrane that works with carbon filtration to deliver 20X more efficient results than water filters in the same class.
- Covered by a lifetime warranty for a hassle-free buying experience
- Shell is made of ABS material – the same material used on car bumpers
- Comes with a detachable drinking cup, detailed instructions, all internal filters and tubing, travel bag, and how to use manual
5. GRAYL Ultralight Water Purifier [+ Filter] Bottle
This water purifier filter and bottle are compact means you can easily carry it with you during international travel or outdoor adventure and use it to transform virtually any freshwater source into safe and clean drinking water. The GRAYL Ultralight Water Purifier Bottle is also great for emergency preparedness. It is 16 ounces and holds enough water to keep you going during an outdoor adventure. Moreover, this portable water filter is available in many different colors, including Coyote Amber, Camo Black, and Alpine White. Whether you are a hiker, an international traveler, or only looking to make your emergency kit complete, this water purifier bottle is for you.
- Removes waterborne pathogens such as Bacteria, Protozoan Cysts, etc
- Filter particulates such as silt, sediment, heavy metals, and many chemicals
- Light and compact for optimum portability
- The award-winning one-press design makes the bottle easy to use
6. Purewell Water Purifier Pump with Replaceable Carbon Water Filter
You should get the Purewell Water Purifier Pump because it is portable and lightweight. This means it is easy to carry and simple to use. Better yet, the small, compact capacity does not make this portable water filter less effective. It still boasts a high filter capacity that enables it to filter up to 3000 liters (793 gallons). Furthermore, this water purifier pump boasts an incredibly fast flow rate of up to 58 ounces (1400 milliliters) per minute. The detailed instruction manual means you will know right away how to use this water filter. A carry bag is also included to make this water purifier easy to carry from place to place.
- Unique anti-skid rubber on the bottom and sides of the pump helps maintain a sturdy and firm surface while the pump is in use
- The pump can filter up to 793 gallons (3000 liters) before replacing its reusable carbon filter
- 3-month money-back/replacement guarantee ensures 100-percent satisfaction
7. LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottles
This BPA-free water filter bottle makes a decent purchase for any outdoor enthusiast on a budget. It is perfect for camping, travel, backpacking, and emergency kits. It gets rid of 99.99 percent of waterborne bacteria and protozoan parasites without batteries, iodine, and chemicals. Moreover, this water filter bottle features a 2-stage activated carbon filter that reduces chlorine, odor, and ensures zero aftertastes. The bottle also features an award-winning hollow fiber membrane that further improves its performance. It is durable and will never leak. Expect no messy drips when you carry it with you to an outdoor adventure.
- The capacity of the water filter bottle is 22 ounces
- The bottle weighs 6 ounces and measures 9 inches long by 3 inches wide
- BPA-free Tritan material is durable and safe to use
- 2-stage activated carbon filter reduces chlorine, odor, and leaves zero aftertaste
8. LifeStraw Family 1.0 Portable Gravity Water Purifier
Over 13.2M people across the globe are using this portable water filter. This is solid proof that the portable gravity water purifier is a top-notch product that serves its purpose. It boasts a flow rate of roughly 9 – 12 liters per hour, which significantly promotes convenience. Moreover, this gravity water purifier is extremely easy to use. All you need to do is pour water in the top and get clean water from the bottom. It purifies 4755 gallons (18,000 liters) without chlorine, iodine, or other chemicals. That being said, this water purifier can supply four with clean drinking water for three years.
- Comes in a sealed bag for optimum portability
- Ideal for emergencies
- Gets rid of 99.99-percent bacteria and protozoan cysts, and 99.99-percent viruses to 0.02 microns.
- Surpasses EPA standards for water purifiers
- The flow rate is 9 – 12 liters per hour.
9. joypur 0.01 Micron 3-Stage Portable & Outdoor Water Filter
We are happy to note that this portable water filter is BPA-free and made of 100-percent Tritan. Tritan is a food-grade material that does not produce any bad smell or harmful substances. Expect this water filter to be safe for drinking. The water filter is also portable, and, therefore, ideal for camping, backpacking, and hiking. With it, you will be able to effectively turn water from lakes, rivers, spring, and streams into drinking water. The next time you are going on hiking, fishing, hunting, or camping trip, this portable water filter is what you should consider. It is also great for emergency preparedness.
- The water purifier weighs 254 grams (8.9 ounces) and measures 3.15 by 1.97 by 6.69 inches.
- Compact enough to carry anywhere and use anytime
- Lifetime warranty gives peace of mind during the purchase
- Incredibly fast flow rate up to 47.8 ounces (1400ml) per minute
10. Katadyn Hiker Pro Water Filter, Transparent
The transparent design is no doubt the selling point of this water filter. It makes it easy to see filtration working. In other words, the transparent design of this water filter promotes excellent convenience. Another feature we must mention is an activated carbon in the filter’s core. It improves the taste of drinking water as well as reducing chemicals. Furthermore, this portable water filter features a filter protector screen that is field-cleanable and helps extend the cartridge life, especially in tricky conditions. This water filter is proven to remove protozoan cysts and bacteria down to 0.2 microns; thanks to the pleated glass-fiber filter media. Backpackers love this water filter because it does what it is designed to do. We are, therefore, sure you will love it as well.
- Transparent design lets you see the filtration working without straining
- Water filter weighs 11 ounces only and is compactly sized for optimum portability
- Activated carbon in the core improves the taste of the water and reduces chemicals
Factors to Consider When Buying Portable Water Filters
Portable water filters are nice. However, you will enjoy the performance of yours if it is one of the best. So, what do you do to get nothing but a premium portable water filter? Well, of course, by reading the factors below before purchase.
Effectiveness & Accuracy
Ensure your portable water filter is proven to remove bacteria and protozoan cysts down to 0.2 or 0.1 microns. Such water filters are very competent and capable of making water safe for drinking in no time.
Type
Water filters are available in many different designs and models. There are water filter bottles that filter water as you drink and water filter pumps that filter water first and then pump it into a container. For personal use, we advise that you go for a water filter bottle. But if you plan to use your water filter with your family or a group of friends, a water filter pump is the best bet.
Reusability
If possible, you should buy a water filter that comes with reusable accessories. For instance, a water filter system with reusable carbon filters and a water bottle is highly recommended because it will save you some money in the long run. It is also convenient in the sense that it will spare you the hassle of replacing the parts every time you want to use it.
Conclusion
We all know the importance of drinking clean water. However, situations such as outdoor adventures and emergencies can make safe drinking water very difficult to access. And this is where a portable water filter comes in handy. It transforms potentially harmful water into safe, drinking water, making sure you stay hydrated and healthy while on the go.