APEC Essence ROES-50
Score: 88/100
Aquasana SmartFlow RO
Score: 92/100Rankings
The Aquasana SmartFlow® Reverse Osmosis System is a high-efficiency under-sink unit that removes 99.99% of 90 contaminants while restoring beneficial minerals. Its SmartFlow technology addresses common RO drawbacks like water waste and short filter life. It is best for homeowners prioritizing water quality and health who want remineralized, alkaline water.
The APEC ROES-50 Essence Series is a 5-stage, WQA-certified under-sink reverse osmosis system designed to remove up to 99% of over 1,000 contaminants. It offers exceptional filtration performance comparable to systems costing four times as much, making it a high-value choice for households seeking pure drinking water. However, the slow faucet flow rate and high wastewater generation are notable trade-offs for users prioritizing speed and conservation.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
0.03 GPM | 0.75 GPMbest | |
9 months | 12 monthsbest | |
5 stagesbest | 4 stages | |
99 %best | 96.4 % | |
| ↓ lower better | 40 PSIbest | 40 PSIbest |
| ↓ lower better | 2.31 ratio | 1.5 ratiobest |
— | 2 yearsbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 17.5 inches | 12.93 inchesbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Health & Safety(2) | ||
Certifications | WQA Gold Seal | NSF/ANSI 42, 53, 58, 401; WQA |
Remineralization | false | true |
Installation & Compatibility(1) | ||
Installation Type | Under-sink | Under Sink |
Filtration & Performance(4) | ||
Flow Rate (GPM) | 0.03 GPM | 0.75 GPM |
Filtration Stages (stages) | 5 stages | 4 stages |
TDS Reduction (%) | 99 % | 96.4 % |
Pure to Drain Ratio (ratio) | 2.31 ratio | 1.5 ratio |
Maintenance & Warranty(2) | ||
Filter Lifespan (months) | 9 months | 12 months |
Warranty (years) | Lifetime years | 2 years |
Dimensions & Build(3) | ||
Height (inches) | 17.5 inches | 12.93 inches |
Width (inches) | 5.25 inches | 4.5 inches |
Depth (inches) | 16.0 inches | 15.0 inches |
Professional reviewers and independent labs describe the APEC ROES-50 as a classic reverse osmosis system that consistently punches above its price point. It is rated as one of the most reliable performers for eliminating critical contaminants like lead, arsenic, and PFAS, achieving perfect marks in testing.
Everyday users consistently praise the system for its crisp, refreshing water taste and reliable, trouble-free operation. Many customers express high satisfaction with the value for money, noting the affordable filters and sturdy build quality justify the investment.
“Crisp, refreshing taste superior to bottled water”
“Trouble-free and noise-free operation”
“Solid build quality for the price”
Professional reviewers highlight the Aquasana SmartFlow® as a top-tier reverse osmosis system due to its exceptional contaminant removal capabilities and patented SmartFlow® technology. Experts emphasize that the system effectively mitigates common RO drawbacks like water waste and short filter life.
Users consistently praise the system for its high contaminant removal effectiveness, specifically noting the reduction of PFAS, lead, and fluoride. The compact design and easy, tool-free maintenance are frequently cited as major advantages for everyday use.
