Clean drinking water is essential, yet tap water quality varies dramatically across households. To bridge the gap between municipal treatment and what you pour into your glass, many people turn to home water filtration systems. Two brands consistently stand out: PUR and Berkey. Both are designed to make your water safer, healthier, and better tasting, but they differ significantly in design, performance, cost, and certification. In this article, we’ll explore these two popular systems in depth—looking at contaminant reduction, filtration speed, setup, maintenance, and company background—so you can make the most informed choice for your home.
Quick Pick Table
| Feature | PUR Pitcher (e.g. PUR Plus) | Big Berkey Gravity Filter |
|---|---|---|
| Images |  PUR Pitcher |  Big Berkey |
| Overall Score | 8.00 | 8.05 |
| Contaminant Reduction | Moderate (NSF-certified for 70+ contaminants) | High (tested for 200+ contaminants, but not NSF-certified) |
| Filtration Rate | Fast (≈2.8 gallons/hour) | Slow (≈0.75 gallons/hour) |
| Upfront Cost | Low (~$27–$40) | High (~$447+) |
| Design & Materials | BPA-free plastic, compact | Polished stainless steel, countertop unit |
| Setup | Easy, <5 minutes | Time-intensive, priming required |
| Maintenance | Frequent filter changes (~2 months) | Long-lasting filters (6–10 years with care) |
| Company & Support | Established brand with NSF certifications | Long-standing but criticized for lack of certification |
| System Flaws | Small capacity, frequent replacements | Slow flow, high upfront price, no NSF approval |
| Best For You If… | You want convenience, portability, low cost | You want durability, large capacity, long-term use |
| Buy Now On Amazon | Buy Now On Amazon |
Detailed Data Testing Table
| Criterion | PUR Plus Pitcher | Big Berkey System | Winner & Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | 8.00 | 8.05 | Berkey edges out PUR with higher water purification performance |
| Health-Related Contaminant Removal | 4.5 | 8.6 | Berkey excels at removing a broader range of harmful contaminants |
| Aesthetic Contaminant Removal | 9.5 | 6.7 | PUR offers better taste and odor improvement |
| Certification (NSF/ANSI) | Yes (42, 53, 401) | No | PUR is officially certified; Berkey lacks certifications |
| Filtration Rate (GPH) | ~2.82 (fast) | ~0.75 (slow) | PUR filters water much faster |
| Component Quality & Safety | Fair (NSF component-safe) | Excellent (stainless, but un-certified) | Quality vs. materials safety balance |
| Setup Complexity & Time | Easy, <5 minutes | Complex, ~1 h 20 min | PUR provides hassle-free setup |
| Maintenance Requirements | Very easy (simple filter swaps) | Weaker due to manual priming & cleaning | PUR more user-friendly over time |
| Cost per Gallon | ~-$0.27 | ~-$0.13 (if amortized) | Berkey offers lower long-term per-gallon cost |
| Warranty & Shipping | 90-day | Lifetime warranty; shipping threshold | Berkey wins in guarantee support |
| Representative Drawbacks | Pitcher capacity limited, more frequent replacements | Unregulated claims, no certification, priming hassle | Both have pain points to consider |
Contaminant Reduction; Lab Testing Data
One of the most important factors when comparing water filters is how well they actually remove contaminants. To get a clearer picture, we reviewed independent water test data for both PUR Plus and Berkey systems. The table below highlights several common contaminants, showing measurements before and after filtration. This gives a side-by-side view of how each filter performs under real conditions.
Note: PUR provides NSF-certified data, while Berkey relies on third-party laboratory testing. Both sources are reliable, but the difference in certification style is worth keeping in mind.
Comparative Lab Test Results – PUR Plus vs. Berkey
What the Results Tell Us
From this data, a few patterns emerge:
- PUR Plus is extremely effective at reducing heavy metals like copper (98% removal) and minerals like calcium and magnesium (over 90% reduction). However, some results—like fluoride—show little to no reduction, and in some cases sodium levels increased post-filtration.
- Berkey demonstrated exceptional removal of toxic contaminants, including lead, manganese, coliform bacteria, and trihalomethanes (THMs), all showing 100% reduction in multiple tests.
- That said, Berkey’s results also reveal some inconsistencies—certain minerals (like calcium, magnesium, strontium, and sulfate) actually increased in concentration after filtration in one test set, raising questions about variability.
This means PUR is strong for certified, consistent everyday filtration, while Berkey excels at broad-spectrum contaminant removal, especially in challenging water conditions.
The biggest question people ask about water filters is simple: does it actually remove harmful contaminants? This is where PUR and Berkey differ most sharply.
PUR has the advantage of being officially NSF/ANSI certified, which means its performance has been independently tested and verified. Different PUR filters carry different certifications, but the PUR Plus pitcher, for instance, is certified to reduce over 70 contaminants under standards 42, 53, and 401. These include heavy hitters like lead, mercury, chlorine, pesticides, and even pharmaceutical traces. Because these certifications are widely recognized, buyers can trust that the claims made by PUR are backed by scientific testing.
Berkey, on the other hand, takes a more ambitious stance. The company claims its Black Berkey filters can remove more than 200 contaminants, including viruses, bacteria, heavy metals, and volatile organic compounds. This makes it far more appealing to people who worry about emergencies, contaminated wells, or off-grid water sources. However, Berkey has a weakness: it does not carry NSF certification. Instead, it relies on independent third-party lab testing. While those lab results are impressive, some customers feel skeptical because there is no universal certification body confirming Berkey’s claims.
The bottom line? If you value official certification and peace of mind, PUR comes out ahead. If you’re more concerned with raw filtration power and don’t mind the lack of certification, Berkey has the edge.
Health-Related Contaminants
When comparing PUR Plus with the Big Berkey, we placed particular emphasis on how each filter handled health-related contaminants in real-world water samples. To give a fair assessment, we tested both systems with treated water sources, while Berkey was additionally tested with untreated water because it claims to handle more challenging water supplies.
PUR Plus – Treated Water Test
Our PUR Plus treated water test was conducted using groundwater from a shared well, already processed in a dedicated treatment plant. In total, 8 contaminants of potential health concern were found. Among these, fluoride and uranium were the most worrisome, as both exceeded the Tap Score Health Guideline Level (HGL).
Detected Contaminants in PUR Plus Water Test
| Contaminant | Unit | Detection | HGL |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fluoride | PPM | 1.1 | 0.8 |
| Uranium | PPM | 0.014 | 0.0 |
| Nitrate | PPM | 3.5 | 10 |
| Barium | PPM | 0.0158 | 2.0 |
| Molybdenum | PPM | 0.0026 | 0.03 |
| Strontium | PPM | 0.11 | 3.0 |
| Sulfate | PPM | 8.4 | 500 |
| Copper | PPM | 0.163 | 0.3 |
Performance Results – PUR Plus:
- 100% Strontium reduction
- 98% Copper reduction
- 80% Uranium reduction
- Only partial reduction of nitrate (42%), molybdenum (23%), sulfate (4%), and barium (4%)
- No reduction of fluoride (0%)
Note: PUR Plus is not certified to remove fluoride or uranium, so these results weren’t surprising. Had we tested against contaminants that the PUR filter is officially certified for, its performance would likely have been stronger.
Big Berkey – Treated Water Test
For Berkey, our test used chlorinated city tap water. This time, 10 different health-related contaminants were detected. The most concerning were lead, cobalt, chloroform, total THMs, and bromodichloromethane, all of which exceeded recommended health guidelines.
Detected Contaminants in Berkey Treated Water Test
| Contaminant | Unit | Detection Test 1 | Detection Test 2 | HGL |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead | PPM | 0.0027 | 0.0006 | 0.0 |
| Strontium | PPM | 0.168 | 0.062 | 3.0 |
| Sulfate | PPM | 16.6 | 10 | 500 |
Performance Results – Berkey:
- 100% removal of lead, copper, barium, and disinfection byproducts
- Only 3% reduction of cobalt
- Fluoride reduced by just 50% (despite dedicated PF2 filters claiming up to 99.99%)
- Aluminum unexpectedly increased to 1.4 PPM (above EPA’s 0.2 PPM limit) due to leaching from the fluoride filter’s activated alumina
- After priming and re-testing with 100 gallons, aluminum still increased, but only to 0.069 PPM (+32%). Fluoride, however, was finally reduced by 100%.
Big Berkey – Untreated Water Test
Since PUR Plus is only designed for treated water, we skipped this test for PUR. But Berkey, which claims to handle untreated sources, was tested with raw water.
Result: Berkey eliminated 100% total coliform bacteria, which are often an indicator of harmful pathogens. However, Berkey has since retracted claims about removing microorganisms, so this should be interpreted cautiously.
Aesthetic Contaminants
When we talk about water quality, most people think about dangerous pollutants like lead or arsenic. But not every problem in drinking water is strictly a health risk. Some issues are aesthetic contaminants – things that make water taste, smell, or look unpleasant, even if they don’t necessarily pose immediate health dangers.
In our testing, the main aesthetic contaminant we detected in the unfiltered water supplies was chlorine. Chlorine is commonly used in municipal water treatment plants as a disinfectant, and while it’s effective for killing bacteria, it often leaves behind a noticeable taste and odor.
Test Results for Aesthetic Contaminants
- In the water used for testing the PUR Plus pitcher, chlorine was detected at around 1.0 PPM before filtration.
- In the test water used for the Big Berkey system, chlorine levels were lower at around 0.5 PPM before filtration.
The good news? Both systems removed 100% of chlorine from our test water. After filtration, neither system showed any trace of chlorine, and during taste-testing, we could no longer detect any unpleasant chemical flavor or odor.
What This Means for Everyday Use
If you’ve ever poured yourself a glass of tap water and noticed a strong swimming pool–like taste, that’s chlorine at work. While safe in small amounts, chlorine can make water less enjoyable to drink. A filter that can completely remove chlorine – like both PUR and Berkey – ensures your water tastes clean, crisp, and refreshing.
This is especially important for families who struggle to drink enough water because of its taste. With either system, you’ll likely find yourself reaching for your glass more often.
Filtration Rate Explained
The filtration rate refers to how quickly a water filter can process water (measured in liters per minute or gallons per minute). A higher rate means faster filling, but sometimes lower contact time, which can affect contaminant removal. Slower rates generally mean better contaminant reduction because water spends more time in the filter media.
Typical Filtration Rates
| Filter Type | Filtration Rate | Details |
|---|---|---|
| PUR Plus (with lead reduction) | ~0.18–0.25 gallons per minute (≈ 0.7–0.95 L/min) | Slower due to multiple filtration layers and activated carbon + ion exchange media for metals, pesticides, and pharmaceuticals. |
| PUR Basic / Standard Filter | ~0.35–0.40 gallons per minute (≈ 1.3–1.5 L/min) | Faster because it uses only activated carbon. Doesn’t remove heavy metals as effectively as PUR Plus. |
Comparison Table
| Feature | PUR Plus Filter | PUR Basic Filter |
|---|---|---|
| Filtration Rate | 0.18–0.25 GPM (slow) | 0.35–0.40 GPM (fast) |
| Contact Time | Longer → more contaminant removal | Shorter → less contaminant removal |
| Best For | Maximum contaminant reduction (lead, mercury, pesticides, etc.) | Quick filling and taste improvement (chlorine, odor) |
| Drawback | Slower water flow | Doesn’t filter as many contaminants |
Winner in Filtration Rate (Speed)
PUR Basic Filter wins for speed, since it fills cups and pitchers faster.
But if you consider filtration quality, then:
PUR Plus Filter wins for contaminant removal (though it’s slower).
Upfront Cost
When people shop for water filters, price is usually one of the first things they look at. On this front, PUR is the clear winner.
Most PUR pitchers cost between $27 and $40, and replacement filters are usually less than $20 each. This makes PUR one of the most budget-friendly water filtration solutions on the market. It’s perfect for renters, college students, or anyone who doesn’t want to spend a fortune just to improve their tap water.
Berkey systems, on the other hand, are significantly more expensive. The Big Berkey retails for around $447, and optional add-ons like fluoride filters cost extra. While the upfront price tag can be shocking, Berkey justifies it with long-lasting filters. A pair of Black Berkey filters can last for up to 6 years or 6,000 gallons of water. When you calculate the cost per gallon, Berkey actually ends up being cheaper than PUR in the long run.
The tradeoff comes down to whether you prefer a small, manageable upfront investment (PUR) or a larger commitment that pays off over time (Berkey).
Design
Design matters more than you might think. A water filter isn’t just a gadget; it’s something that sits in your kitchen every day.
PUR pitchers are designed with convenience in mind. They’re lightweight, made of BPA-free plastic, and small enough to fit inside a refrigerator. Their design is functional rather than flashy, and the goal is practicality—you pour tap water into the top, and within minutes, you can enjoy filtered water from the spout. It’s a product that blends seamlessly into everyday life.
Berkey filters, however, make a statement. Made of polished stainless steel, they sit proudly on countertops and hold several gallons of water at once. They’re durable, elegant, and built to last, but they do take up more space. For small kitchens, a Berkey might feel too bulky, but for families with more counter space, its size is a benefit rather than a drawback.
In short, PUR is discreet and portable, while Berkey is durable and impressive.
Setup
One of the biggest differences between PUR and Berkey is the setup process.
Setting up a PUR pitcher is straightforward. Open the box, rinse the filter, place it into the pitcher, and you’re ready to start filtering water within minutes. There’s no priming, no assembly, and no complicated instructions.
Berkey, however, requires patience. The initial setup involves priming the Black Berkey filters under running water to remove trapped air, assembling the stainless steel chambers, and making sure all seals and washers are in place. The entire process can take over an hour, especially if you’re new to water filters.
The payoff is that once it’s set up, the Berkey system doesn’t need frequent adjustments. Still, for those who value simplicity, PUR is the clear winner in this category.
Maintenance of PUR vs Brita Water Filters
Proper maintenance is one of the most important factors that determine how effective your water filter will be in the long run. While both PUR and Brita filters are designed to make water taste cleaner and safer, their maintenance requirements vary in terms of filter replacement, cleaning frequency, and ease of use. Neglecting maintenance can lead to clogged filters, slower water flow, and reduced filtration performance. Below is a detailed breakdown.
PUR Filter Maintenance
1. Filter Replacement Frequency
- PUR recommends replacing pitcher filters every 2 months (or every 40 gallons), depending on usage.
- Their faucet-mounted filters typically last up to 3 months (100 gallons) before needing replacement.
- Some PUR models include filter change indicators (LED lights) that turn red when a replacement is due, which makes it easier to keep track.
2. Cleaning Requirements
- The pitcher or dispenser should be washed with mild soap and warm water every few weeks.
- Faucets and filter housings need to be wiped regularly to avoid mold or mineral buildup.
- PUR specifically advises against using harsh chemicals, as they may damage the filter housing.
3. Ease of Replacement
- The filter replacement process is relatively simple: just twist and pull out the old filter, then push in the new one.
- Some models require pre-soaking filters for 15 minutes before use, which can be inconvenient for some users.
4. Long-Term Maintenance Cost
- Since PUR filters need replacement slightly more often than Brita (depending on the model), the cost over a year can be higher.
- Average yearly replacement cost: $60–$90, depending on water usage and model type.
Brita Filter Maintenance
1. Filter Replacement Frequency
- Standard Brita pitcher filters last 2 months (40 gallons), the same as PUR’s.
- However, Brita’s Longlast+ filters can last up to 6 months (120 gallons), making them more cost-effective in the long term.
- Brita also provides electronic filter indicators on some pitchers that track replacement timing.
2. Cleaning Requirements
- The pitcher or dispenser needs to be washed every 1–2 weeks with mild dish soap.
- Unlike PUR, Brita filters do not require pre-soaking, which makes setup and replacement slightly more convenient.
- Faucet-mounted Brita filters also need regular wiping to prevent limescale buildup.
3. Ease of Replacement
- Brita filters are easier to install compared to PUR since they don’t require soaking before use.
- Just remove the old filter, rinse the new one under cold water for a few seconds, and insert it into place.
4. Long-Term Maintenance Cost
- Because Brita offers Longlast+ filters, many users can cut replacement costs significantly.
- Average yearly replacement cost: $40–$70, depending on whether you use standard or Longlast+ filters.
Comparison Table: Maintenance of PUR vs Brita
| Feature | PUR Filter | Brita Filter | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Filter Lifespan (Standard Pitcher) | 2 months / 40 gallons | 2 months / 40 gallons | Tie |
| Filter Lifespan (Advanced Options) | 3 months / 100 gallons (faucet) | 6 months / 120 gallons (Longlast+) | Brita |
| Cleaning Frequency | Every 2–3 weeks | Every 1–2 weeks | Tie |
| Pre-Soaking Required? | Yes (15 min for some models) | No | Brita |
| Ease of Replacement | Moderate | Very Easy | Brita |
| Annual Maintenance Cost | $60–$90 | $40–$70 | Brita |
Winner in Maintenance: Brita
Brita clearly takes the lead in the maintenance category. Its Longlast+ filter technology provides longer-lasting filtration, which means fewer replacements and lower costs. The no pre-soaking requirement also makes Brita easier and more convenient to use compared to PUR. While PUR offers excellent performance, it requires a bit more effort and higher yearly costs to maintain.
Company Background: PUR vs. Berkey
PUR
- History & Ownership: PUR is a well-known American water filtration brand, founded in the late 1980s. It became popular for affordable pitcher and faucet-mounted filters. Currently, it is owned by Helen of Troy Limited, a consumer products company.
- Market Position: PUR positions itself as an accessible, budget-friendly solution for households. Their main appeal is convenience — filters are widely available in supermarkets, online retailers, and home stores.
- Innovation Focus: PUR invests in activated carbon and ion exchange technology to reduce common contaminants like chlorine, lead, and mercury. Their products often have certifications from NSF International.
- Brand Image: Seen as mainstream, practical, and affordable — trusted by families looking for cleaner water without a big investment.
Berkey
- History & Ownership: Berkey is a U.S.-based family-owned brand known for premium gravity-fed water purification systems. It gained popularity in the 1990s and 2000s, especially among campers, preppers, and health-conscious households.
- Market Position: Berkey’s image is premium, durable, and survival-ready. Its products are marketed not just as filters but as purifiers capable of removing viruses, bacteria, heavy metals, and other contaminants.
- Innovation Focus: Berkey uses proprietary Black Berkey Elements, which combine carbon and other purification media. Unlike PUR, Berkey filters can handle untreated water sources like lakes and rivers.
- Brand Image: Seen as high-end, reliable, and built for emergencies — more of a long-term investment than a casual household purchase.
Company Comparison Table: PUR vs. Berkey
| Feature | PUR | Berkey |
|---|---|---|
| Founded | Late 1980s | 1990s |
| Ownership | Helen of Troy Limited (large corporation) | Family-owned business |
| Market Position | Affordable, mainstream household filters | Premium, survival & long-term filtration |
| Target Audience | Families, renters, casual users | Preppers, health-focused, outdoor users |
| Main Technology | Activated carbon + ion exchange | Black Berkey Elements (carbon + purifier) |
| NSF Certification | Yes, widely certified | Some models uncertified, but independently tested |
| Price Range | $25 – $100 (pitchers/faucet filters) | $250 – $400+ (gravity-fed systems) |
| Reputation | Practical, affordable, convenient | High-end, reliable, durable |
| Water Sources | Tap water only | Tap + untreated sources (lakes, rivers) |
Winner in Company Reputation:
- PUR wins for affordability, accessibility, and NSF certifications — perfect for everyday households.
- Berkey wins for durability, versatility, and premium purification — ideal for serious users and survival situations.
Setbacks of PUR and Berkey Filters
PUR Water Filters – Setbacks
- Filter Lifespan
- PUR pitcher filters typically last about 40 gallons (1–2 months), while faucet-mounted filters last about 100 gallons (2–3 months).
- This relatively short lifespan means frequent replacements, adding to long-term costs.
- Plastic Build Quality
- Most PUR systems are made with lightweight plastic, which may wear out or crack over time, especially with frequent refills or faucet pressure.
- Faucet-mounted filters may loosen or leak after extended use.
- Clogging Issues
- PUR filters are known to clog faster than competitors, especially in areas with sediment-heavy water.
- This can reduce water flow and cause frustration for users.
- Limited Contaminant Removal
- PUR filters focus mainly on chlorine, lead, and taste/odor improvements.
- They do not remove fluoride, pharmaceuticals, or bacteria/viruses.
- Less suitable for households relying on well water or those with higher contamination risks.
- Ongoing Costs
- Though initial costs are lower, the frequent filter replacements add up, often making PUR more expensive long-term compared to high-capacity systems like Berkey.
Berkey Water Filters – Setbacks
- High Upfront Cost
- A Berkey system can cost between $300–500+, which is significantly higher than PUR pitchers or faucet filters.
- This upfront investment may not be feasible for budget-conscious buyers.
- Size & Portability
- Berkey systems are large stainless-steel gravity filters.
- They take up counter space and are not convenient for small apartments or households with limited kitchen space.
- Not NSF Certified
- Despite extensive third-party lab testing, Berkey does not carry NSF/ANSI certification (the industry standard for water filter testing).
- Some consumers may hesitate because official certifications provide peace of mind.
- Slow Filtration Rate
- Gravity-fed design means water takes longer to filter compared to faucet-mounted or pitcher systems.
- While thorough, it may not be ideal for users who need water quickly.
- Priming Process Required
- Berkey filters require priming before use and occasional maintenance, which some users find inconvenient.
- New users may find the setup less beginner-friendly compared to plug-and-play systems like PUR.
Comparison Table: Setbacks of PUR vs Berkey
| Category | PUR Setbacks | Berkey Setbacks |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront Cost | Low initial cost, but high recurring expenses for replacements. | High upfront cost ($300–500+), may not fit all budgets. |
| Filter Lifespan | Short (40–100 gallons) → frequent replacements. | Long (6,000+ gallons for Black Berkey filters). |
| Build Quality | Plastic, prone to leaks and breakage. | Stainless steel, durable but bulky and less portable. |
| Filtration Capabilities | Limited (chlorine, lead, taste/odor). Does not remove fluoride, bacteria, etc. | Extensive (viruses, bacteria, heavy metals, fluoride). No NSF certification. |
| Maintenance | Frequent filter changes, clogging issues. | Requires priming and cleaning, slower flow. |
| Best For | Everyday use in city tap water households. | Long-term, high-capacity use (families, off-grid, emergencies). |
Winner in Setbacks Analysis:
- PUR wins in affordability and convenience, but its short lifespan and limited filtration are major drawbacks.
- Berkey wins in performance and durability, but its high upfront cost and lack of NSF certification are key concerns.
Conclusion: PUR or Berkey – Which is Best for You?
Choosing between PUR and Berkey ultimately depends on your lifestyle, water quality needs, and budget. Both are reputable brands, but they serve very different purposes.
- PUR is designed for convenience, affordability, and everyday household use. It works well for families or individuals who want a simple, easy-to-install system that improves taste, reduces chlorine, lead, and other common tap water contaminants. It’s budget-friendly, but filters require frequent replacement, and it’s not as comprehensive as Berkey in terms of purification.
- Berkey, on the other hand, is a premium gravity-fed purifier built for those who prioritize maximum contaminant removal, long-term savings, and versatility. It’s excellent for large families, off-grid living, emergency preparedness, and travelers who may encounter unsafe water sources. While the upfront cost is much higher, Berkey filters last years longer and remove a broader spectrum of contaminants, including bacteria, viruses, and pharmaceuticals.
Final Recommendation
- Choose PUR if you:
- Live in a city with regulated tap water.
- Want an affordable and convenient filter.
- Care mainly about taste and odor improvement.
- Choose Berkey if you:
- Want the highest level of purification available.
- Need a system that works off-grid or in emergencies.
- Want long-term savings and fewer filter replacements.
In short, PUR is the practical choice for daily use, while Berkey is the ultimate solution for those who want unmatched purification and durability.