Whirlpool WHES40 vs Waterdrop G3P800
Different approaches to water treatment compared side by side. Best for various water quality situations.
Whirlpool WHES40
Salt-Based Water Softener
$550
VS
Waterdrop G3P800
Reverse Osmosis System
$999
Whirlpool WHES40 and Waterdrop G3P800 are different types of water treatment systems. The Waterdrop G3P800 costs $449 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: $449
The Waterdrop G3P800 costs $449 more. The question is whether the differences justify the cost for your situation.
Full Spec Comparison
| Specification | Whirlpool WHES40 | Waterdrop G3P800 |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | 1 year |
| Certifications | NSF/ANSI 44, 372 | NSF/ANSI 42, 53, 58, 401 |
| Dimensions | 21.3" x 15" x 47.5" | 17.72" x 5.67" x 17.72" (tankless) |
| Installation | DIY-friendly | Under-sink, DIY-friendly |
| Water Source | City & Well | City & Well |
| Hardness Removal | Up to 125 GPG | — |
| Iron Removal | Up to 10 PPM | — |
| Filtration Stages | — | 7-stage + UV sterilizer |
| Technology | — | Reverse Osmosis + UV |
| Flow Rate (GPD) | — | 800 |
| TDS Removal | — | Up to 99.9% |
| Contaminants Removed | — | TDS, PFAS, lead, fluoride, chlorine, bacteria, viruses |
| Filter Life | — | 6–24 months (depending on stage) |
| Waste Ratio | — | 3:1 (pure:drain) |
| Smart Features | — | TDS monitoring, filter life indicator |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Whirlpool WHES40 or Waterdrop G3P800 better?
It depends on your situation. Whirlpool WHES40 ($550) is the better value for most homes. Waterdrop G3P800 ($999) offers premium features that may justify the cost for larger households or those wanting maximum convenience.
Is the Whirlpool WHES40 worth it at $550?
Whirlpool WHES40 is one of the most popular water treatment systems on the market. At $550, it offers strong performance for the price. Budget shoppers who want a certified softener available at a retail store
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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