Countertop RO vs gravity: which belongs in your kitchen?
These are the two no-plumbing ways to serious filtration, and they could not feel more different to live with.
| Countertop RO | Gravity (Boroux / Berkey style) | |
|---|---|---|
| Removes | Lead, PFAS, fluoride, nitrates, TDS, most dissolved contaminants | Chlorine, many organics and metals per lab data; fluoride only with add-on elements |
| Needs | An outlet; a tank refill rhythm; produces reject water (2.5:1-4:1) | Counter height and patience - about 1-3.5 GPH |
| Certification leaders | AquaTru (42/53/58/401/P473) | Boroux (42/401/372) |
| Running cost | $69-150/yr | $120-149 per element pair |
| Power outage | Stops (batch tanks still pour) | Keeps working |
Verdict
Pick RO for breadth of certified removal on city or well water with dissolved-contaminant concerns. Pick gravity for independence - outages, cabins, wells with good pressure-free living - and accept a narrower certified list.