Waterdrop Vs APEC: UnderSink & RO Water Filters

Last updated on February 18th, 2024

If you are familiar with RO filters, then you probably would have heard about waterdrop vs apec companies. These top-tier brands manufacture some of the best yet most affordable RO water filters. However, due to their identical specifications and competitive customer ratings, these two brands are often pinned against each other by analysts. 

Those buying the RO filter for the first time might get confused about choosing between these two brands. If you are also curious regarding which of these brands is better, then analyzing their comparison will help you to make a wise decision. 

In this article, you will find a detailed WaterDrop vs APEC comparison highlighting the differences between the two brands. But before directly heading towards the comparison, it is apt to study both brands’ characteristics individually. 

Customer Reviews About Waterdrop vs Apec

While comparing the features and specifications of the APEC and WaterDrop filters, it is also crucial to weigh their reviews against each other. On notable retailing websites like Amazon, APEC has more positive customer ratings than WaterDrop filters.

The primary reason behind the extreme popularity of APEC filters is their affordability, functionality, and excellent customer service. Though the WaterDrop filters also offer outstanding efficiency and have optimal reviews, they are not as famous as APEC filters among customers.

Below is a WaterDrop vs APEC comparison table that can help you compare the specifications of the two brands distinctly. 

Features	WaterDrop	APEC
Image	Editor Choice
Filtration System	Reverse Osmosis	Reverse Osmosis
Filtration Steps	3 To 7	5 To 7
Remineralization	Available	Available
Flow Rate	40 to 75psi	40 to 75psi
GDP Range	50GPD to 95GPD	50GPD to 100GPD
Tank/Tankless	Both	Both
Portable Filter	Not Available	Available
Removal of Contaminants	99%	99%
TDS Reduction	Yes	No
Removes Microscopic Particles	Larger than 0.1 micrometers	Partially
Affordable	Affordable	More Affordable
Maintenance	Easy/Costlier	Easy/Inexpensive
Water Drainage-to-Delivery Ratio	1:1	3:1
Warranty	1 year	1 year
Price	Check Latest Price	Check Latest Price

WaterDrop Filtration Systems 

WaterDrop offers some of the most advanced yet innovative RO filters compared to traditional purifiers. The aspect that distinguishes WaterDrop from the rest is its large GPD output. In fact, it would be apt to say that it is among the few RO brands that produce such high capacities of water daily.

Moreover, the water drainage-to-delivery ratio of these filters is meager, implying that they don’t produce too much wastewater and are environmental-friendly. Besides these idealistic features, tons of other aspects make WaterDrop filters so highly rated. 

Therefore, to compare this brand aptly with APEC, let’s have a detailed review of the specifications offered by WaterDrop filters. 

Filtration Process WaterDrop

The filtration procedure slightly varies among the WaterDrop filters. Most WaterDrop filters operate on a 7-stepped filtration process that ensures up to 99.99% removal of impurities. However, a few filters in this range purify water in only three steps. Therefore, it would be apt to discuss these two categories separately. 

7-Stepped Filtration Process

Advanced WaterDrop filters feature a 7-step filtration process that combines a variety of filters and membranes to maximize water purification. In the 7-stepped process, untreated water is filtered through carbon filters, composite filters, and an RO membrane. 

All these filters work together to remove harmful contaminants, including lead, sulfur, and VOCs. Even mineral salts like sodium, potassium, and magnesium are not exempted from filtration; and are immediately removed from the water. At the end of the six stages, the remaining water in the tank is tasteless, colorless, and odorless, implying its purified state. 

The best part about these 7-stepped WaterDrop filters is their excellent TDS-reduction ratio. TDS particles are generally hard to remove, predominantly when the filtration system operates on reverse osmosis technology. However, no such thing happens with these WaterDrop filters, as they can efficiently target and reduce TDS from water. 

3-Stepped Filtration Process 

Some WaterDrop purifiers filter water through only three stages instead of seven. These purifiers combine a carbon filter, an RO membrane, and a polypropylene filter to achieve 99% purity in water. During the first stage, the pre-filter targets concrete dust particles and reduce their quantity from water.

Once the water is free of chunk impurities, it is passed onto the carbon filter, which reduces chlorine and VOCs’ taste. During this step, the water is somewhat filtered but not sufficiently purified to be considered safe for consumption. 

The primary filtration process starts from step three, where the water is flushed through an RO membrane. The RO membrane targets every contaminant and filters it thoroughly from water. After this process, the remaining water in the tank is considered filtered and is around 99% pure. 

Performance WaterDrop

The efficiency of WaterDrop filters is overall excellent. The seven-stepped water filters are brilliant in terms of purification, as they simultaneously target several kinds of impurities. 

However, when it comes to three-stepped filters, their operation seems identical to traditional RO filters. Though 3-stepped filters are optimal in their functionality, there is nothing special or advanced about them. 

The flow rate of these filters is also average and lies within 40 to 75psi, which makes them similar to other brands regarding pressure range. On average, these filters can deliver 0.60 to 0.75 gallons of water per minute, which indicates their fast filtration and high capacity rate. 

Best Aspect WaterDrop

The best part about these filters is their excellent GDP flow rate and low drainage-to-delivery ratio. Typically, RO filters waste a lot of water per filtration cycle, implying that they are not environment-friendly. 

But WaterDrop features innovative composite technology, producing minimum water waste. The drainage-to-delivery ratio for these filters is merely 1:1, implying that for every gallon of filtered water, these filters only produce one gallon of wastewater. 

Another remarkable aspect of WaterDrop filters is their incredibly compact size. Usually, under-sink filters are large and occupy a lot of space, but WaterDrop filters featuring advanced technology are built smaller and more compact in size. And since they don’t produce much water waste, they don’t need to be placed near the drain. 

Last but not least, the purification quality of WaterDrop filters must not be ignored. Very few RO filter brands target such a comprehensive range of contaminants. Therefore, places that receive heavily contaminated water should opt for one of the WaterDrop filters. 

Worst Aspect WaterDrop

WaterDrop filters also have a few downsides that must not be ignored. Firstly, most WaterDrop filters lack the crucial remineralization feature many brands offer these days. Some WaterDrop filters feature remineralization, but it is inefficient and might not bring you the required alkalinity rate in water. 

Moreover, the price of these filters can be a little higher for people who have bought APEC and HomeMaster filters before. In fact, it would be apt to say that WaterDrop filters lie on the more expensive side of affordable filters. Thus, if you are on a tight budget, then WaterDrop filtration systems might not be for you. 

Installation WaterDrop

When it comes to installation, the WaterDrop filters are probably the easiest purifiers to install. The WaterDrop company claims that you can easily install these filters within three to thirty minutes. 

The filters come pre-assembled, implying that you won’t have to spend time assembling the pipes. Moreover, according to the company, you don’t need to be an expert in the installation process. With the help of DIY skills, you can quickly install WaterDrop filters without help. 

Maintenance WaterDrop

The carbon block filter of WaterDrop filtration systems requires replacement every six months. Similarly, the carbon refiner needs to be changed once a year, and the RO membrane must be replaced after 24 months. The period for these replacements is the same as that of other filter brands. 

However, the replacement cost of WaterDrop parts lies on the costlier side. The reason is that the composition of WaterDrop filters is more advanced, which is why their replacement parts are more expensive than others. 

Pros WaterDrop Filtration System

To have a better understanding of WaterDrop filters, let’s review one of its top-rated water filters. 

WaterDrop UltraFiltration Water Filter System

WaterDrop UltraFiltration is one of the most advanced filtration systems in the entire range. This filter features an advanced UF membrane that can filter out contaminants larger than 0.1 micrometers. 

Unlike other WaterDrop filters, this one features a 4-stepped filtration process, an extension of 3-stage WaterDrop filters, and has an extra UF membrane. The UF membrane ensures the removal of microscopic particles while the rest of the filtration process remains the same. 

This filter’s installation and maintenance procedures are the same as those of other WaterDrop water filters. You can easily install this filter within minutes by employing your DIY skills. Furthermore, the maintenance of these filters is not that hard. 

All you need to ensure is to replace the filters/membranes timely, which is essential for the proper functioning of the purifier. However, compared to other WaterDrop filters, this one is more expensive.

APEC Water Filter Systems

Now that you have reviewed WaterDrop filters, it is time to analyze the characteristics of APEC water filter systems. When it comes to affordability, the APEC undoubtedly manufactures the best RO filters. From optimal functioning to an economical price range, this brand has all the desired characteristics. 

Another aspect distinguishing APEC filters from the rest is their diverse filter range. Usually, a brand features the same type of filters in its entire range. But APEC has outdone them all by introducing different kinds of RO filters under the same brand. Whether you seek a remineralizing filter, a small-capacity filter, a portable filter, or a high-pressure filter, you can find them all within this brand. 

Now let’s have a detailed study of the APEC’s specifications so that you can compare the two brands more effectively. 

Filtration Process 

The filtration process of APEC filters is pretty straightforward. Remineralizing APEC filters feature a 7-stepped filtration process. Whereas other filters that lack remineralization filter water in five comprehensive stages. 

The first five stages of the 7-stepped filter are the same as those of the 5-stepped filter. The only difference is that the 7-stepped filter has two additional steps during which mineral salts are restored in filtered water. 

APEC’s filtration process utilizes a polypropylene filter, a carbon block, an RO membrane, and a carbon refiner to filter the untreated water. Thanks to this extensive filtration process, almost all the contaminants are removed, and the water achieves up to 99% purity. 

All impurities, including mineral salts, are removed from the water during filtration. APEC’s remineralizing filter features an extra process that restores healthy quantities of essential mineral salts in water. In the end, the water is free of harmful contaminants but contains beneficial levels of healthy mineral salts (sodium, potassium, magnesium, etc.)

Thanks to this remineralization, the pH of the water rises, and it becomes alkaline. Contrary to some common misconceptions, alkaline water is not only advantageous for health and promotes the storage tank’s longevity. 

Actually, the tank’s insider is sensitive to the pH level of the water. A low pH level adversely affects it, whereas a high pH level increases its effectiveness. And since alkaline water produced by remineralization has a high pH; therefore, it protects the tank and ensures its long-term use. 

Performance APEC Water Filter System

As stated earlier, APEC filters can remove 99% of contaminants from water. These contaminants may be VOCs, chlorine, lead, sulfur, arsenic, etc. In fact, the APEC company claims that their RO filters can remove up to 1000 different contaminants simultaneously. 

The flow rate of APEC filters is also pretty appreciable and lies between 40-75psi. However, this flow rate depends upon the backend pressure of the water. If the backend pressure is slow, these filters may have difficulty uplifting the water pressure. 

The water waste ratio for APEC filters is around 3:1. According to this ratio, APEC filters produce three gallons of water waste for every gallon of filtered water. However, this wastewater is still being filtered to some extent; thus, it is safe enough to be used for washing and cleaning. 

Best Aspect APEC Water Filter System

The best aspect of APEC is its diverse filter range, optimal functionality, and affordable prices. Finding a functionality-wise optimal and price-wise affordable RO filter is hugely challenging these days. But APEC filters have made the hunt easier by introducing a bunch of inexpensive yet quality-wise efficient reverse osmosis (RO) filters. 

Another appreciable aspect of these filters is their economical maintenance and easy installation. Maintaining RO filters can be tricky, but no such rule applies to APEC filters, as their replacement parts are cheaper and more accessible. 

Similarly, the customer support of this brand is excellent. No matter what the day or time is, their customer support service is always ready to provide you with immediate assistance. Owing to such brilliant service, APEC has such a high rating on significant retailing websites like Amazon. 

Worst Aspect APEC Water Filter System

Seemingly, the APEC brand seems full of advantages; but if you scrutinize intensely, you may also notice a few drawbacks of their filters. The foremost aspect that analysts dislike about these filters is their dependency on the backend pressure of the water.

Advanced RO filters have built-in mechanisms to cope with backend pressure problems and elevate the flow rate. But unfortunately, no such technology is present in APEC filters. If your place receives a water supply with poor pressure, it is advised to use a pressurizer with this filter to avoid any drop in the flow rate.

Though the filter range offered by APEC is pretty diverse, there are very few remineralizing filtration systems in their field. Thus, if you want to buy a remineralizing filter from APEC, you are restricted to choosing between a few options. 

Installation APEC Water Filter System

The installation process for APEC filters is straightforward and hassle-free. APEC filters come almost pre-assembled. Thus, all you must do is connect a few pipes and install the filter. Besides, you won’t need to buy additional accessories to install this filter; everything necessary comes with the filter kit. 

If you have DIY skills, you can quickly install an APEC filter without the help of a plumber. However, if you are new to DIY tasks, it is better to call for a professional technician because mishandling can potentially damage the filter system. 

Maintenance APEC Water Filter System

The maintenance of APEC filters comprises regular cleaning sessions and filter replacement after a certain period. As far as cleaning sessions are concerned, you must de-assemble the filter once every three months and thoroughly clean it. If you fail to do so, the filter may encounter serious operational issues. 

The polypropylene filter requires replacement once in 8 months, whereas the carbon block needs changing after 12 months. Similarly, the lifetime of the RO membrane is only 1.5 to 2 years. After this period, you must change the filter/membrane; otherwise, the filter’s functionality might get affected. 

Pros And Cons WaterDrop Under-Sink

For further understanding, let’s have a detailed review of an APEC filter similar to the one we discussed earlier from the WaterDrop range. 

APEC Water Systems CS-2500 Ultra High Capacity Water Filter

CS-2500 is one of the most advanced filtration systems in the APEC range. This filter features a seven-step process, during which 99% of contaminants are removed from the water. 

However, thanks to the remineralizing membrane, essential mineral salts like sodium, calcium, and potassium are restored in the filtered water. As a result, the water you receive from this filter is purified and alkaline. 

Compared to other APEC filters, this one is more compact and smaller. This means you won’t have to install this filter in a large place; a small under-sink space will be more than sufficient to accommodate this filter. 

However, one aspect you must consider is that CS-2500 is a tankless filter. A tankless filter does not come with a storage tank. Instead of storing filtered water for future use, the tankless filters purify water on-spot and deliver it to the outlet. 

Since it is a compact filter, it is much easier to install and maintain than other APEC filter systems. Places with low water demand should opt for this filter as it produces enough water to meet the required demand. However, for large families, this water filter might not be able to fulfill the requirements. 

WaterDrop vs APEC: Which is Better?

Now that you have reviewed the features of both brands detailedly, it is time for WaterDrop vs APEC comparison. Since the features and specifications of both brands are identical, customers can get confused about choosing between them. However, with the help of the following WaterDrop vs APEC comparison, you can choose the one which suits your requirements better. 

Also Read: Waterdrop Reverse Osmosis

Performance Waterdrop Vs APEC 

In terms of performance and efficiency, both WaterDrop and APEC give each other a tough time to take the lead. The purification rate of both brands is almost the same, i.e., 99%. WaterDrop takes a slight lead in terms of contaminant removal, as it even targets microscopic bacteria and TDS particles. 

Regarding remineralization, APEC filters are undoubtedly better because they produce more optimal-quality water than WaterDrop filter systems. But when it comes to flow rate, WaterDrop filters are superior because, unlike APEC filters, their flow rate does not depend upon the backend pressure of the water. 

The filtration procedures for both filters are similar because they feature RO membranes, polypropylene filters, and carbon block filters. However, WaterDrop being slightly advanced, also feature composite filters in their seven-stepped filtration systems.

Thus, if you want a filter with better filtration performance, opt for a 7-stepped WaterDrop filter. But if you want the filtered water to be mineralized and slightly alkaline, then nothing can be better than APEC filtration systems. 

Installation waterdrop vs APEC

The ease offered by WaterDrop filter systems is unmatchable in terms of installation. APEC filter systems are also easy to install, but since the WaterDrop filters come pre-assembled and are more compact, they get installed quicker than the former-mentioned purifiers.

The WaterDrop company claims you can install any of their filters within thirty minutes without professional help. On the other hand, installing APEC filters can take up to two hours. 

However, you won’t need to call for a plumber to install these filter systems. Instead, you can install them yourself with the help of DIY skills. All the essential accessories required for installation are included in their kits, implying that you won’t have to purchase the tools separately. 

Maintenance waterdrop vs APEC

When it comes to maintenance, both APEC and WaterDrop filter systems can give you a hard time. The filter and membrane replacement period for their filters is almost the same. However, the difference exists in their maintenance costs. 

APEC filters being generally inexpensive, have low maintenance costs than WaterDrop filters. Thus, if you are on a tight budget and seeking an economical filter, APEC filters are a better choice because their purchase cost is low. Ultimately, their maintenance expenditures will also be affordable in the future. 

Price waterdrop vs apec

From the above discussion, it is evident that APEC filters are a more economical choice than WaterDrop filtration systems. The WaterDrop filters also belong to the affordable category of RO purifiers. But when compared to APEC, they certainly lose the comparison as their prices are higher than the filters offered by the latter one. 

Customer Reviews About waterdrop vs APEC

While comparing the features and specifications of the APEC and WaterDrop filters, it is also crucial to weigh their reviews against each other. On notable retailing websites like Amazon, APEC has more positive customer ratings than WaterDrop filters.

The primary reason behind the extreme popularity of APEC filters is their affordability, functionality, and excellent customer service. Though the WaterDrop filters also offer outstanding efficiency and have optimal reviews, they are not as famous as APEC filters among customers.

Below is a WaterDrop vs APEC comparison table that can help you compare the specifications of the two brands distinctly. 

FAQs: Waterdrop vs APEC

1. Which is more highly rated; APEC or WaterDrop

When it comes to being the favorite of customers and having a higher rating, APEC filters ultimately lead the chart. In fact, it would be apt to say that APEC water systems are among the top RO filter brands on Amazon.

2. Is it difficult to install a WaterDrop filter?

Installing a WaterDrop filter is easier than most RO filters. Thanks to its compactness and pre-assembled state, you can install this filter easily within thirty minutes. 

3. Do WaterDrop feature tankless filters?

Yes, WaterDrop features both tank and tankless RO filters. The quality of these tankless filters is as good as traditional tank systems and can provide you with up to 400 gallons of water per day.

Conclusion: Waterdrop vs APEC

The winner of this WaterDrop vs APEC comparison is the one that fulfills your requirements better. If you live in a place that receives highly contaminated water full of TDS, opt for a WaterDrop filter system. But if you are short on budget, APEC offers more affordability than WaterDriop filters. 

But when you compare the filtration technology of the two brands, WaterDrop filters emerge to be the winner. However, the case is quite the opposite when you compare the customer reviews of APEC and WaterDrop. Overall, customers seem to love APEC filters more than WaterDrop.