CuZn Under Sink Water Filter
Score: 88/100
APEC Essence ROES-50
Score: 85/100Rankings
The CuZn UC-200 is a high-performance under-sink filter featuring a 5-year lifespan and KDF-55 technology for effective contaminant removal without sacrificing flow rate. Its primary limitation is its large physical size, which may not fit in all under-sink cabinets, and its inability to reduce TDS. It is best suited for households with municipal water seeking low-maintenance, high-flow filtration.
The APEC ROES-50 is a 5-stage reverse osmosis system that delivers high-purity water by removing 99.99% of contaminants, including lead and PFAS. It offers excellent value and performance but produces significant wastewater and requires adequate water pressure. It is best suited for budget-conscious homeowners needing comprehensive purification from tap or well water.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
2 gallons per minutebest | 0.35 gallons per minute | |
60 monthsbest | 12 months | |
3 | 5best | |
50,000 gallonsbest | 50 gallons | |
5 yearsbest | 1 years | |
| ↓ lower better | 15 inchesbest | 19 inches |
| ↓ lower better | 4.5 inchesbest | 18 inches |
| ↓ lower better | 4.5 inchesbest | 27 inches |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Value & Warranty(1) | ||
Warranty (years) | 5 years | 1 years |
Dimensions & Fit(3) | ||
Height (inches) | 15.0 inches | 19.0 inches |
Width (inches) | 4.5 inches | 18.0 inches |
Depth (inches) | 4.5 inches | 27.0 inches |
Performance & Filtration(8) | ||
Certifications | NSF/ANSI 42, 372, 61 | WQA |
Contaminants Removed | Lead, Mercury, Chlorine, PFAs | Lead, Arsenic, PFAS, Chlorine |
Flow Rate (gallons per minute) | 2.0 gallons per minute | 0.35 gallons per minute |
Filter Life (months) | 60 months | 12 months |
Filtration Stages | 3 | 5 |
Filter Capacity (gallons) | 50000 gallons | 50 gallons |
Filtration Technology | Carbon/KDF | Reverse Osmosis |
TDS Reduction (percent) | 0 percent | 99.99 percent |
Features & Accessories(2) | ||
Included Faucet | false | true |
Remineralization | true | false |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers and editors praise the CuZn UC-200 for its industry-leading flow rate and exceptional longevity, positioning it as a superior alternative to standard under-sink filters.
Everyday users consistently report significant improvements in water taste and clarity, with many noting that the high flow rate remains unaffected even after years of use.
“Effortless install (under 30 minutes DIY) and longevity beyond 3-5 years in low-use homes.”
“Noticeable improvement in taste, clarity, and odor removal, with many reporting no flow reduction after years of use.”
“Great-tasting water, easy install, reliable for years.”
Professional reviewers praise the APEC ROES-50 as a top pick for filtration performance relative to its price. It is described as a proven workhorse that punches above its weight class in removing critical contaminants like lead, chlorine, and PFAS.
Everyday consumers generally express high satisfaction with the water quality, noting that it tastes better than bottled water and effectively removes city water odors. Users appreciate the affordability of filters and the ease of DIY installation.
