When it comes to the safety of your household’s drinking water, lead contamination is a serious concern that can’t be ignored. Old pipes, fixtures, and even municipal service lines can leach this harmful heavy metal into your water supply, posing significant health risks, especially to children. I’ve spent a lot of time researching how to effectively tackle this problem, and I’ve found that dedicated water filtration is the most reliable solution for peace of mind right at your tap.
For 2025, the market is filled with excellent under sink and countertop models specifically designed for lead removal. These systems use advanced filtration technologies, like activated carbon blocks and specialized media, to effectively reduce lead levels far below the EPA’s action level. In this guide, I’ll walk you through my top picks for the best under sink & countertop water filters for lead removal, breaking down their features, performance, and value to help you choose the perfect one for your home.
Our Top Picks for the Best Under Sink & Countertop Water Filters for Lead Removal
- APEC Water Systems ESSENCE Reverse Osmosis System
- Express Water Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration System
- Waterdrop G3 Reverse Osmosis System
- iSpring 6-Stage Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration System
- Aquasana Claryum 3-Stage Under Sink Water Filter
- Culligan US-EZ-4 Under Sink Water Filtration System
- Frizzlife Under Sink Water Filter System
APEC Water Systems ESSENCE Reverse Osmosis System
If you’re looking for top-tier performance and reliability, the APEC Water Systems ESSENCE is a fantastic choice. This is a 5-stage reverse osmosis system that’s built right here in the USA, and it’s certified to remove up to 99% of lead and other contaminants. What I really like about this model is its compact design, which makes it easier to fit under most kitchen sinks compared to bulkier RO systems. The filtration process includes a sediment filter, two carbon block filters, and the high-rejection RO membrane, ensuring your water is as pure as it can be. The system also features a fast-flow faucet and a large-capacity storage tank, so you don’t have to wait long for a glass of clean water.
Installation is straightforward if you’re moderately handy, and APEC provides excellent customer support to guide you through the process. The filters are long-lasting, typically needing replacement only once a year, which helps keep long-term maintenance costs low. The water quality it produces is noticeably better—crisp and without any odd tastes or odors. While it does produce wastewater like all RO systems, its efficiency is respectable for the category. I consider this a premium investment for anyone serious about removing lead and achieving truly high-purity water for drinking and cooking.
Pros
- Excellent lead removal certification (99%)
- Compact and space-saving design
- Long-lasting filters reduce maintenance frequency
Cons
- Higher upfront cost than basic filters
- Produces wastewater, like all RO systems
Express Water Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration System
The Express Water RO system stands out for its user-friendly features and clear filtration status indicators. This 10-stage system goes beyond just lead removal, addressing a wide spectrum of contaminants including fluoride and arsenic. I appreciate the digital display on the faucet that shows the TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) level and sends alerts when it’s time to change a filter. This takes the guesswork out of maintenance. The system is also NSF certified, giving you confidence in its performance claims for lead reduction and overall water safety.
Setup is designed to be DIY-friendly, with color-coded lines and push-to-connect fittings that make the process much less intimidating. It includes an alkaline remineralization stage, which adds beneficial minerals like calcium and magnesium back into the water after the RO process, improving the taste and making it less acidic. The flow rate is good, and the system operates quietly. While it has more stages than some models, which means more filter replacements over time, the convenience of the smart alerts and the comprehensive filtration make it a great value for families wanting a full-featured solution.
Pros
- Smart faucet with filter change alerts and TDS meter
- 10-stage filtration including alkaline remineralization
- Straightforward DIY installation with color-coded parts
Cons
- More filter stages can mean higher long-term cost
- The unit is relatively large under the sink
Waterdrop G3 Reverse Osmosis System
The Waterdrop G3 is a modern take on reverse osmosis, featuring a tankless design that saves a significant amount of space under your sink. Unlike traditional RO systems with a storage tank, this one produces water on demand, which means fresher water and no risk of tank contamination. Its integrated water faucet has a smart LED light that changes color to indicate filter life—blue for good, orange for time to change, and red for expired. This is a sleek and compact system that looks great and performs even better.
One of its biggest advantages is the high filtration speed; it can fill a cup much faster than tank-based systems. The filters are also designed to be changed in seconds without needing to turn off the water supply, which is a huge convenience. It uses a combination of a PP sediment filter, a carbon block filter, and an advanced RO membrane to achieve a high lead removal rate. The main thing to consider is that it requires an electrical outlet for the internal pump, but for me, the benefits of space savings, instant fresh water, and easy maintenance make it a top contender.
Pros
- Tankless design saves space and provides fresh water on demand
- Very fast water flow rate compared to tank systems
- Extremely easy and quick filter replacement process
Cons
- Requires an electrical outlet for operation
- Higher initial investment than some traditional RO systems
iSpring 6-Stage Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration System
The iSpring RCC7AK is one of the most popular and well-reviewed RO systems on the market, and for good reason. It offers a robust 6-stage filtration process that ends with an alkaline remineralization filter. This final stage is a key feature; it restores healthy minerals that are stripped away during the reverse osmosis process, resulting in water that not only is free from lead and other impurities but also tastes better and has a more balanced pH. The system is UL and NSF certified, so you can trust its performance claims.
I found the installation to be manageable with the comprehensive instructions provided. The system comes with a solid chrome faucet and a 3.2-gallon storage tank, which provides a good reserve of purified water. The filters are effective and affordable to replace, which keeps ongoing costs reasonable. While it does produce wastewater, its ratio is standard for this type of system. If you’re looking for a reliable, proven system that improves the taste and health profile of your water through remineralization, the iSpring RCC7AK is an excellent choice.
Pros
- Includes an alkaline remineralization filter for better-tasting water
- Strong certifications and proven reliability
- Affordable and widely available replacement filters
Cons
- Standard RO wastewater production
- The storage tank takes up under-sink space
Aquasana Claryum 3-Stage Under Sink Water Filter
For those who want highly effective lead removal without the complexity and wastewater of a reverse osmosis system, the Aquasana Claryum is a brilliant option. This system uses a sophisticated 3-stage filtration process with activated carbon, catalytic carbon, and a proprietary ion exchange technology. It’s certified to remove 99% of lead, along with chlorine, chloramines, and herbicides. A major benefit is that it does not remove healthy minerals like calcium and magnesium, so your water retains its nutritional value.
Installation is a breeze because there’s no need to drill an additional hole in your countertop; it connects directly to your existing faucet. The system is also non-electric and doesn’t produce any wastewater, making it an environmentally friendly choice. The flow rate is excellent, providing filtered water instantly without the pressure drop you get with some systems. The main filter needs replacing about every six months, which is a relatively short interval, but the cost per gallon of filtered water is still very competitive. It’s a perfect balance of performance, convenience, and eco-consciousness.
Pros
- Excellent lead removal without wasting water
- Retains beneficial minerals in the water
- Easy installation that uses your existing faucet
Cons
- Filter lifespan is shorter than some RO systems (6 months)
- Does not reduce Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) like an RO system
Culligan US-EZ-4 Under Sink Water Filtration System
The Culligan US-EZ-4 is a great example of a simple, effective, and affordable under sink filter. If you’re not ready for a full RO system but still want certified lead reduction, this is a fantastic starting point. It’s NSF certified to reduce lead, cysts, and chlorine, making a big difference in taste and safety. The design is streamlined, with a single filter housing that’s incredibly easy to change—you just twist the old one off and the new one on in seconds.
I like that it installs easily and doesn’t take up much space under the sink. The filtered water tastes clean and fresh, free from the chlorine taste common in tap water. The filter has a decent lifespan, usually around 500 gallons or six months, which is standard for this type of unit. It’s a no-frills workhorse that does its job reliably. While it won’t remove as many contaminants as a multi-stage RO system, it targets the most common concerns like lead and chlorine effectively, offering great value for money.
Pros
- Very affordable upfront cost
- Extremely easy and quick filter changes
- NSF certified for lead, cyst, and chlorine reduction
Cons
- Limited contaminant reduction compared to RO systems
- Basic model without additional features like a dedicated faucet
Frizzlife Under Sink Water Filter System
The Frizzlife system is another excellent point-of-use filter that offers a great balance of performance and convenience. Its standout feature is the “push-button” filter change technology. Instead of twisting the filter housing, you just press a button to release the old filter and click the new one into place. This is not only easy but also prevents potential leaks from cross-threading. The system is certified to reduce lead, chlorine, cysts, and other contaminants.
It comes with its own dedicated faucet, which is a nice upgrade over models that rely on your existing tap. The water flow is strong and consistent, and the filtration effectively improves the taste and odor of the water. The filter lifespan is a solid 12 months or 1,600 gallons, which is longer than many competitors, helping to reduce maintenance frequency and cost. For renters or anyone who needs a capable filter without
Buying Guide: 10 Best Under Sink & Countertop Water Filters for Lead Removal | 2025
When I started looking for a water filter to handle lead, I quickly realized it’s not as simple as picking the shiniest model. Lead is a serious contaminant, and you need a filter that’s specifically certified to remove it. The most important thing to check for is the NSF/ANSI standard. For lead, you want to see certifications for NSF/ANSI 53 or NSF/ANSI 58. The number 53 covers filtration systems that reduce health-related contaminants, including lead, while standard 58 is specific to reverse osmosis systems, which are exceptionally good at removing lead.
Next, think about the installation type. Under-sink filters are my go-to for a permanent, out-of-sight solution. They usually offer higher capacity and more thorough filtration, like multi-stage reverse osmosis systems. The trade-off is that you often need to drill a hole in your countertop for a dedicated faucet and the installation can be a bit more hands-on. Countertop models, on the other hand, are perfect for renters or anyone who wants a zero-installation option. You just screw them onto your existing faucet or use a diverter valve. They’re portable, but they do take up valuable counter space.
You also can’t ignore the long-term costs. The initial price of the unit is just the beginning. You have to factor in the cost and frequency of filter replacements. A reverse osmosis system, for example, might have multiple filters and a membrane that need changing on different schedules. I always calculate the cost per gallon to get a true sense of the investment. Also, pay attention to the filter’s capacity—how many gallons it can process before a change is needed. A higher capacity means less frequent changes and more consistent water quality.
Finally, consider the flow rate. Some filters, especially certain reverse osmosis models, have a slower flow rate because the water has to pass through a membrane. This is fine for filling a glass or a pot, but can be frustrating if you’re trying to fill a large pot quickly. Look for a system with a flow rate that matches your household’s daily water usage habits. By focusing on certification, installation type, ongoing costs, and performance, you can find the right water filter for lead removal that fits your home and gives you peace of mind.
FAQ
How do I know if my water filter is actually removing lead?
The only way to be sure is to check for an independent certification. Look for a seal from NSF International or the Water Quality Association that specifies NSF/ANSI Standard 53 or 58 for lead reduction. Don’t just trust manufacturer claims; the certification means the product has been rigorously tested to meet the standard. You can find this information on the product’s packaging or on the certifying body’s website.
What’s the difference between an under-sink and a countertop filter for lead removal?
Both types can be effective, but they serve different needs. Under-sink filters are installed permanently under your counter, often with a separate faucet. They typically house larger, more complex systems like multi-stage carbon blocks or reverse osmosis, which are highly effective for lead removal. Countertop filters are simpler to install (usually no tools required) and sit on your counter, connecting to the main faucet. They are great for portability and rentals but may have a smaller filter capacity and can clutter your counter space.
Are reverse osmosis filters the best option for removing lead?
Reverse osmosis (RO) systems are generally considered the gold standard for removing lead from water. They use a semi-permeable membrane that filters out a very wide range of contaminants, including lead, often achieving a removal rate of 95% or higher. However, they are more expensive, produce wastewater, and can have a slower flow rate. A high-quality carbon block filter certified for lead reduction can also be a very effective and more affordable alternative.
How often do I need to replace the filters in my lead removal system?
It completely depends on the model and your water usage. Replacement schedules can range from every 3 months for a simple carbon filter to every 6-12 months for an RO membrane. The best practice is to follow the manufacturer’s recommendation based on your household’s gallon usage. Many modern systems have a filter change indicator light, which is a helpful feature. Ignoring filter changes can render the system ineffective, allowing lead and other contaminants to pass through.
Do these filters remove other contaminants besides lead?
Yes, absolutely. Most water filters designed for lead removal are multi-taskers. A system certified to NSF/ANSI 53 will also typically reduce contaminants like chlorine, cysts, and volatile organic chemicals (VOCs). Reverse osmosis systems (NSF/ANSI 58) are even more comprehensive, often reducing a long list of contaminants including fluoride, arsenic, and total dissolved solids (TDS). Always check the specific certification details to see what other impurities the filter targets. This makes a system for the 10 Best Under Sink & Countertop Water Filters for Lead Removal | 2025 a great investment for overall water quality.