APEC RO-CTOP
Score: 82/100
Dreo Reverse Osmosis Water Filter
Score: 85/100Rankings
The Dreo RO Water Filter 115 is a compact, plug-and-play countertop RO system featuring real-time TDS monitoring and auto-fill pitchers. While it offers excellent purity and eco-friendly water usage, the slow fill time and operational noise are notable drawbacks. It is ideal for small households and renters who prioritize pure RO water without plumbing.
The APEC RO-CTOP is a portable, countertop reverse osmosis system that produces up to 90 gallons per day of purified water without requiring permanent installation. It features a 4-stage filtration process using US-made components and connects directly to standard kitchen faucets, making it ideal for renters and travelers. The system operates with a 2:1 waste-to-purified water ratio and includes an aluminum carrying case for transport.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
12 monthsbest | 12 monthsbest | |
3.75 gallons per hourbest | — | |
— | 95 %best | |
0 gallons | 1.3 gallonsbest | |
4 stages | 7 stagesbest | |
6.5 inches | 13.27 inchesbest | |
6 inches | 13.78 inchesbest | |
14 inchesbest | 7.87 inches |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Performance & Filtration(4) | ||
Certifications | Food-grade | SGS, NSF/ANSI 58 |
Contaminants Reduced | Arsenic, Lead, Fluoride, 99% Contaminants | 1000+ impurities including heavy metals and PFAS |
Flow Rate (gallons per hour) | 3.75 gallons per hour | Slow gallons per hour |
Filtration Stages (stages) | 4 stages | 7 stages |
Capacity & Dimensions(5) | ||
Water Capacity (gallons) | 0 gallons | 1.3 gallons |
Height (inches) | 6.5 inches | 13.27 inches |
Width (inches) | 6.0 inches | 13.78 inches |
Depth (inches) | 14.0 inches | 7.87 inches |
Product Weight (pounds) | 7.0 pounds | 10.78 pounds |
Design & Installation(3) | ||
Housing Material | Aluminum | ABS Plastic |
Filter Type | RO Membrane | Composite/RO |
Power Requirement | None | Electric |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers emphasize the RO-CTOP's exceptional value for portability and high water output, noting its 90 GPD capacity is among the highest recommended for portable units. The system's water efficiency is praised for outperforming the average fixed installation system's waste ratio. Technical reviewers highlight the high-grade Filmtec membrane and clever faucet adapter design, while consistently flagging faucet compatibility limitations as a key drawback for buyers with non-standard fixtures.
Everyday users frequently praise the ease of setup, portability, and the significant improvement in water taste for coffee and tea. Many appreciate the reliability and the convenience of the quick-connect filter system. Recurring complaints focus on incompatibility with modern pull-out faucets, the ongoing cost of annual filter replacements, and frustration with slow production rates at low water pressures or the lack of a storage tank.
Professional reviewers, including Bob Vila and TWICE, praise the Dreo RO 115 for delivering under-sink level purity in a compact, plug-and-play design. Experts highlight its eco-friendly 3:1 water ratio and premium features like real-time TDS monitoring and self-cleaning. While the filtration performance and taste are highly rated, reviewers note the slow fill time and moderate operational noise as minor drawbacks.
Everyday users appreciate the convenience of the autofill feature and the ease of filter maintenance. Common praise includes the noticeable improvement in water taste and the reduction in plastic bottle usage. Recurring themes indicate satisfaction with the reliability of the auto-fill sensor, with no major complaints beyond the noted speed and noise issues.
