Berkey Travel Berkey vs AquaTru Classic
Different approaches to water treatment compared side by side. Best for various water quality situations.
Berkey Travel Berkey
Gravity Filter
$284
VS
AquaTru Classic
Countertop RO System
$450
Berkey Travel Berkey and AquaTru Classic are different types of water treatment systems. The AquaTru Classic costs $166 more. The right choice depends on your water data, household size, and which features matter most to you. Check your city's water quality first to understand what you are treating.
Price Difference: $166
The AquaTru Classic costs $166 more. The question is whether the differences justify the cost for your situation.
Full Spec Comparison
| Specification | Berkey Travel Berkey | AquaTru Classic |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Type | Black Berkey purification elements | — |
| Capacity | 1.5 gallons | 3-quart pitcher |
| Flow Rate | ~1.5 gallons/hour | ~10 min per batch |
| Filter Life | 6,000 gallons (2+ years) | — |
| Chlorine Removal | 99.9% | — |
| Lead Removal | 99.9% | NSF 53 certified |
| Bacteria Removal | 99.9999% | — |
| PFAS Removal | Claimed but not NSF certified | NSF P473 certified |
| Certifications | None (third-party tested) | NSF 42, 53, 58, 401, P473 |
| Installation | None required | None (countertop) |
| Stages | — | 4-stage reverse osmosis |
| TDS Removal | — | 99% |
| Waste Ratio | — | 4:1 |
| Filter Replacement | — | 0/year |
When Each System Makes Sense
Choose Berkey Travel Berkey if:
You need portable water purification. You live off-grid or want emergency preparedness. You prefer gravity-fed systems with no electricity.
Choose AquaTru Classic if:
You rent and cannot modify plumbing. You want RO-quality water without installation. You move frequently and need a portable system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Berkey Travel Berkey or AquaTru Classic better?
It depends on your situation. Berkey Travel Berkey ($284) is the better value for most homes. AquaTru Classic ($450) offers premium features that may justify the cost for larger households or those wanting maximum convenience.
Is the Berkey Travel Berkey worth it at $284?
Berkey Travel Berkey is one of the most popular water treatment systems on the market. At $284, it offers strong performance for the price. Off-grid, emergency preparedness, and travel. No electricity or plumbing needed.
What is the difference between a water softener and a water filter?
A water softener removes hardness minerals (calcium, magnesium) that cause scale. A filter removes contaminants (chlorine, PFAS, lead). They solve different problems. Many homes need both. See our detailed guide. Read our full guide →
Related Guides
Affiliate disclosure: CheckMyTap earns a commission if you purchase through our links. This does not affect our analysis. We compare systems based on water data and household needs, not commission rates. Full disclosure →