Whirlpool WHES40 vs Berkey Travel Berkey
Different approaches to water treatment compared side by side. Best for various water quality situations.
Whirlpool WHES40
Salt-Based Water Softener
$550
VS
Berkey Travel Berkey
Gravity Filter
$284
Whirlpool WHES40 and Berkey Travel Berkey are different types of water treatment systems. The Whirlpool WHES40 costs $266 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: $266
The Whirlpool WHES40 costs $266 more. The question is whether the differences justify the cost for your situation.
Full Spec Comparison
| Specification | Whirlpool WHES40 | Berkey Travel Berkey |
|---|---|---|
| Grain Capacity | 40,000 | — |
| Flow Rate (GPM) | 8 | — |
| Bathrooms Supported | 1–4 | — |
| Regeneration Type | Demand-initiated (metered) | — |
| Resin Crosslink | 8% | — |
| Valve Type | Digital demand | — |
| Salt Usage | Sixth Sense technology optimizes salt use | — |
| Warranty | 1 year (parts), limited | — |
| Certifications | NSF/ANSI 44, 372 | None (third-party tested) |
| Dimensions | 21.3" x 15" x 47.5" | — |
| Installation | DIY-friendly | None required |
| Water Source | City & Well | — |
| Hardness Removal | Up to 125 GPG | — |
| Iron Removal | Up to 10 PPM | — |
| Filter Type | — | Black Berkey purification elements |
| Capacity | — | 1.5 gallons |
| Flow Rate | — | ~1.5 gallons/hour |
| Filter Life | — | 6,000 gallons (2+ years) |
| Chlorine Removal | — | 99.9% |
| Lead Removal | — | 99.9% |
| Bacteria Removal | — | 99.9999% |
| PFAS Removal | — | Claimed but not NSF certified |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Whirlpool WHES40 or Berkey Travel Berkey better?
It depends on your situation. Berkey Travel Berkey ($284) is the better value for most homes. Whirlpool WHES40 ($550) 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
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