Putting Steel Water Filters to the Test: Boroux vs. Culligan vs. Rorra

For years, a Wired writer was skeptical of large stainless steel gravity-fed water filters, seeing them as status symbols rather than practical appliances. But research on microplastics in bottled water changed that view, and a new generation of filters has largely eliminated plastic from the water path.

Since March, three models have been tested: the Boroux Legacy ($419), the Culligan MaxClear Gravity ($199), and the Rorra Countertop ($549). The evaluation looked at ease of setup, plastic content, total chlorine reduction, changes in dissolved solids and pH, as well as NSF/ANSI certifications and independent lab results. In a July update, the Culligan was named the best-performing and best-certified filter overall, while the Boroux remained the top recommendation for most households.

The Boroux system holds 3 gallons, but it is tall, heavy, and slow—filtering a full tank takes more than three hours. Its filters are designed to last about a year and can be cleaned and reprimed instead of being replaced immediately. There are no built-in sensors, though a water-level spigot is available as a $65 add-on. The Boroux has earned WQA certification for removing microplastics and particulates down to half a micron, as well as a lead-free manufacturing certification. Independent testing by IAPMO confirmed reductions of PFAS, heavy metals, and chlorine; the writer's own measurements showed total chlorine reduction above 95 percent.

The Boroux filters are said to be functionally identical to the original Berkey black filters, made by Clearbrook from activated carbon and antimicrobial silver. Berkey's maker has been in a legal dispute with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency since 2023 over antimicrobial claims, and Boroux has adjusted its wording to comply with regulations. Activated carbon filters remove contaminants while retaining beneficial minerals like calcium and magnesium.

The Culligan MaxClear is the most extensively certified system but filters very slowly, and its replacement filters become expensive over time. The Rorra is the most convenient option, with built-in sensors for both water level and filter status, and it has been endorsed by celebrities.

Large gravity filters do have drawbacks: they occupy significant space, are awkward to fill, and do not keep water cold. However, they can supply enough water for a family for a day, and they minimize plastic contact with the filtered water.