Reverse Osmosis vs. Carbon Filters
The two main filter technologies compared on removal, cost and upkeep.
How carbon works
Activated carbon grabs chlorine, bad tastes and many chemicals as water passes through. It's cheap, fast and keeps healthy minerals.
How reverse osmosis works
RO pushes water through a membrane with tiny pores, removing up to 99% of dissolved solids — including lead, fluoride, PFAS and nitrates.
Trade-offs
RO costs more, usually needs under-sink space and sends some water down the drain. Carbon is simpler but removes less. Many RO systems include carbon stages too.
Which to pick
Good city water with taste issues: carbon. Known lead, PFAS, fluoride or high TDS: RO. Renters wanting RO: countertop units need no plumbing.
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