Waterdrop G3P800 Reverse Osmosis System Review

About the Waterdrop 800 GPD Reverse Osmosis System (G3P800)

• Type: Tankless under-sink reverse osmosis system featuring a 10-stage precision filtration system with an optional dedicated smart faucet
• Dimensions: 18.11 x 5.67 x 17.73
• Certifications: NSF/ANSI 42, 53, 58, and 372
• Contaminants removed: PFAS, fluoride, lead, chromium, and heavy metals
• Filter life: CB is 12 months, CF is 6 months, RO is 24 months
• Replacement cost: $160 per year
• Location: Under-sink unit with optional above-sink smart faucet

The Waterdrop G3P800 is an ultra-capacity under-sink reverse osmosis water filtration system that can dispense up to 800 gallons of filtered water per day. It can produce a 6-ounce cup of water in about five seconds.

As with our testing of the Waterdrop X12-Pro, we needed to call a plumber for installation. While the installation instructions are detailed, unless you have extensive experience in plumbing and construction, it’s best to hire a pro to ensure a proper, complete installation.

A dedicated smart faucet is included with the unit. It is optional, but if you choose to use it, you must add a hole to the counter next to the sink. The smart faucet tracks TDS (total dissolved solids) levels and filter status and displays them on a small screen in real time.

We decided to forgo the separate faucet and connect the filter to the existing one. In this case, the cold water runs through the filter while the hot water bypasses the system. The TDS and filter status are prominently displayed on the front of the unit.

There are three separate filters that fit into the machine and need to be replaced at specific intervals. The Waterdrop G3P800 also features a UV sterilization light that eliminates 99.9% bacteria and viruses.

What we like

On-demand filtered water that tastes great

We immediately noticed a huge difference between regular tap water and reverse osmosis-filtered water. And while it was similar to our fridge-filtered water—and this may sound weird—it has a purer texture.

Reverse osmosis can remove more impurities than other filtration methods, and you can feel the difference in the water's mouthfeel.

Plus, this under-sink solution is far more elegant (aka: invisible) than a faucet water filter, and provides purer water.

It’s the perfect alternative to a fridge dispenser

If you can’t run a water line to a water-dispensing refrigerator, or prefer a model without a water dispenser, this under-sink water filter is a perfect solution. It’s also far less expensive than installing a whole-house reverse osmosis system while still ensuring pure drinking water.

Even if you have a refrigerator with a water dispenser, the reverse osmosis system provides even purer water, making it an excellent companion if you’re concerned about removing impurities that carbon filters can’t catch.

Your coffee maker will thank you

Do you regularly see white residue built up in your coffee maker? That’s scale from the minerals in water. The reduced mineral content in reverse osmosis water prevents scale build-up in coffee makers.

This can improve the taste of your coffee, as can removing chlorine and other impurities, and extend the life of your coffee maker.

The filters are easy to change—and better for the environment

The three separate filters line up directly down the front of the machine, and a dedicated light for each tells you when it’s time to change the filter. A simple twist-and-pull removes each one, and a quick push-and-twist replaces it.

Each filter has a different lifespan, ranging from six months to two years. We found it’s easiest to set the filters to auto-order and set a reminder to check them every 6 months.

If you’re regularly spending money on bottled water today, it’s likely more than the annual cost of the replacement filters. You’ll not only save money on water, but the environmental savings from eliminating chronic plastic bottle use are a major win.

What we don’t like

It’s slower than a standard faucet

There’s a lot going on in the Waterdrop G3P800, so it does produce water at a relatively impressive speed. However, if you’re filling a carafe for making coffee or a pitcher for the table, it takes longer than a standard faucet, and just slightly longer than a typical fridge dispenser.

The water only gets so cold

While the water's purity makes it extremely palatable, it doesn’t get as cold as filtered water from a refrigerator. If you like your water ice cold, we recommend making ice cubes from filtered water so nothing disrupts the pure-water experience.

Installation may be prohibitive

Between the cost of the unit, the potential need for a plumber, and the requirement for an outlet under the sink, there are many considerations before installing this system.

Especially if you’re planning to use the dedicated smart faucet, it’s easiest to install the Waterdrop during a renovation or new construction.

Warranty

The Waterdrop G3P800 is covered by a one-year warranty for manufacturing defects.

Should you buy the Waterdrop 800 Reverse Osmosis System

Yes, it's an investment, but the water is worth it

If your tap water has an off-putting taste or odor, or you’re particularly concerned about improving the quality of your drinking water, the Waterdrop G3P800 (available at Amazon) is an excellent choice for an under-sink reverse osmosis system.

Even with the added cost of professional installation, it’s far less expensive than most whole-house water filtration systems, and can provide up to 800 gallons of pure water per day—an amount well beyond what most households could ever need.

Whether you choose to install the included chrome smart faucet or connect it to your existing faucet, the pure water it produces is a delight to consume. Plus, the peace of mind and potential long-term benefits are more than worth the investment.