APEC RO-CTOP
Score: 82/100
Waken Electric Countertop RO
Score: 80/100Rankings
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.
The Waken Electric C11 is a countertop reverse osmosis water filtration system featuring an 8-stage filtration process with integrated UV sterilization technology. It operates as a plug-and-play unit requiring no plumbing installation, making it suitable for residential use in homes, apartments, and RVs. The system includes a 200 oz water tank and a digital display for monitoring water quality metrics. While it offers advanced purification and convenience, the need for electricity and wastewater production are notable trade-offs.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
12 monthsbest | 6 months | |
3.75 gallons per hour | 418 gallons per hourbest | |
— | 96 %best | |
0 gallons | 1.56 gallonsbest | |
4 stages | 8 stagesbest | |
6.5 inches | 15.04 inchesbest | |
6 inches | 18.3 inchesbest | |
14 inchesbest | 7.28 inches |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Performance & Filtration(6) | ||
Certifications | Food-grade | NSF 58, 372, EPA 200, FCC |
Contaminants Reduced | Arsenic, Lead, Fluoride, 99% Contaminants | PFAS, Lead, TDS |
Filtration Technology | Reverse Osmosis | RO + UV |
Filter Lifespan (months) | 12 months | 6 months |
Flow Rate (gallons per hour) | 3.75 gallons per hour | 418 gallons per hour |
Filtration Stages (stages) | 4 stages | 8 stages |
Capacity & Dimensions(5) | ||
Water Capacity (gallons) | 0 gallons | 1.56 gallons |
Height (inches) | 6.5 inches | 15.04 inches |
Width (inches) | 6.0 inches | 18.3 inches |
Depth (inches) | 14.0 inches | 7.28 inches |
Product Weight (pounds) | 7.0 pounds | pounds |
Design & Installation(4) | ||
Installation Type | Countertop | Countertop / Plug-in |
Housing Material | Aluminum | Plastic (BPA Free) |
Filter Type | RO Membrane | RO Membrane + Carbon |
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.
“fresh water ready to go”
Users appreciate the straightforward operation, describing the system as producing fresh water ready to go with minimal effort. The digital display providing transparency about water quality metrics is valued by users monitoring their filtration system's performance.
