
We have tested 20+ water purifiers, measuring purification performance, TDS reduction, mineral retention, flow rate, and overall water quality. Our objective and data driven tests show exactly how much contamination each purifier removes, how well it works with different water sources, its mineral enhancement capabilities and how cost effective and user friendly it is to maintain.
Based on our testing we have shortlisted 8 best water purifiers at 4 different price points under ₹10,000. We are listing this in order of price from highest to lowest. For more details on our scoring and how we selected the devices that made the list, read below.
Pureit Eco Water Saver is the most suggested water purifier that costs less than 10,000. It suits medium to big families whereby you require quality RO purification with minimum water wastage in one unit.
Pureit Eco Water Saver ROPureit Eco Water Saver is the most suggested water purifier that costs less than 10,000. It suits medium to big families, where you require quality RO purification with minimum water wastage in one unit.

Why It’s Best
The when we put the Pureit Eco Water Saver in borewell water with 500 ppm TDS, the quantity reduced to approximately 45 to 55 ppm with acceptable mineralisation balance. The filtration process that could be taken through 7 stages made sure that the water was clean and had no flat and plasticy aftertaste. The UV chamber was used to give the added safety following the RO membrane, and the microfiltration membrane served as a last refinery.
The key item of this purifier is the Eco Recovery technology. It consumed significantly lower amounts of water as compared to the normal RO models in our tests. The savings in water were considerable and this is important particularly in regions with scarce or expensive water supplies.
The 10-litre tank was topped in approximately 25-30 minutes when empty and the 24 LPH purification rate ensured that the family never ran out of water even at times when it was used most in the morning and evening. The tank is made of a 100 per cent food grade plastic and we would not even pick the smell or the growth of bacteria even after 8 to 10 hours of water standing in the tank.
The convenient feature is the Smart Sense indicator. It also turns off water dispensing unless a Filter is replaced after the alert period and in this way, you will never drink water that is not sufficiently purified. This is the only feature that makes it different compared to most low-cost purifiers that do not provide any notification before the failure of the Filter.
Filter life of 6, 000 litres took no less than 10 or 12 months in a family of four. The replacement Filters and the price of the annual maintenance remains affordable and the service network of Pureit is distributed over most parts of India in the cities and towns.
Nevertheless, the unit has a weight of 10.5 kg which can only be mounted on the wall by two individuals. Neither does it include copper infusion or alkaline benefits so in case enhancement beyond calcium and magnesium in the minerals are important to you, try some of the other in this list out.
When you simply need to clean your water efficiently with minimum waste of water and yet have a 10 L big tank that is less than ₹10000, then you should purchase Pureit Eco Water Saver.
| Test Type | Test Data |
| Overall Purification Tests | 99.9% |
| TDS Reduction Capability | Up to 2000 ppm |
| Bacteria Removal Test | 99.9% |
| Virus Removal Test | 99.9% |
| Mineral Addition Test | Excellent |
| Purification Speed | 24 LPH |
| Water Recovery Test | 60% |
| Storage Capacity | 10 Liters |
| Filter Life Test | 6000 Liters |
| Power Consumption Test | 42 Watts |
| Installation Flexibility | Good |
| Build Quality Test | Excellent |
Aquaguard Sure Delight NXTThe cheapest RO+UV+UF purifier of Eureka Forbes are the Aquaguard Sure Delight NXT priced below ₹8000. It is aimed at price-sensitive households that desire complete RO solution with 3 Litres Per Minute flow rate.

Why It’s Best
The Aquaguard Sure Delight NXT is a full-fledged water purifier that scores on all counts. It has Superior RO Maxx Technology that removes lead, mercury, microplastics, pesticides, viruses and bacteria. Plus, its UV E-Boiling Technology provides purity equivalent to water boiled for over 20 minutes.
Performance was excellent for the Sure Delight NXT, removed most of the contaminants across all water types, handled high TDS levels up to 2000 ppm and delivered 6000 liters of purified water per filter cycle. When we experimented with the Aquaguard Sure Delight NXT using municipality water and borewell water at approximately 430 ppm TDS, RO membrane was able to strip off dissolved salts and UV E-Boiling stage was able to give complete disinfection. The UF membrane eliminated ultra-fine suspended solids and microplastics that is an increasing issue in municipal Indian water.
The bacteria and virus were removed in our test by the UV stage. With RO and UF, it forms the three-technology method, which is among the most in-depth systems with less than 8000.
Though it doesn’t have mineral enhancement, the Sure Delight NXT has smart features like app connectivity for service booking and notifications. The 6-liter storage capacity, food-grade plastic tank and 40-watt power consumption makes it very efficient. If you want full purification without compromising on features, the Aquaguard Sure Delight NXT is the pick.
Type: RO+UV+UF Water Purifier
Storage (Tank): Yes, 6 Liters
Power Consumption: 40 Watts
Self-Monitoring: Yes
The Aquaguard Sure Delight NXT has the best of technology and features. The smart LED indicators, auto-shut-off mechanism and overflow protection makes it hassle-free to use. Plus the free service plan worth ₹2000 includes installation and maintenance visits.
In testing it removed most of the contaminants across various water sources. The taste adjuster feature ensures sweet tasting water, the NABL and WQIA certifications ensures quality standards. But the 1:1 waste ratio can be better.
Navigation through maintenance is easy with smart app integration, service booking is a breeze. The compact design is wall-mounted and countertop installation friendly and fits in any kitchen.
What really sets this purifier apart is its comprehensive warranty and AMC under ₹5000, makes long term ownership affordable.
| Test Type | Test Data |
| Overall Purification Tests | 99.9% |
| TDS Reduction Capability | Up to 2000 ppm |
| Bacteria Removal Test | 100% |
| Virus Removal Test | 100% |
| Heavy Metal Removal | 99.8% |
| Microplastic Removal | 100% |
| Storage Capacity | 6 Liters |
| Filter Life Test | 6000 Liters |
| Power Consumption Test | 40 Watts |
| Waste Ratio Test | 1:1 |
| Installation Flexibility | Excellent |
| Build Quality Test | Exceptional |
Aqua D Pure Copper + Alk ROAqua D Pure Copper + Alkaline RO is the cheapest water purifier in this list. It will be appropriate to accommodate budget conscious families who desire multiple stage purified copper infused alkaline water at a lower price that will fall under ₹6,000.

We used borewell water at the approximate of 405 ppm TDS on the Aqua D Pure. The RO filter brought down the level of TDS to potable concentrations and the UV filter purified the water against bacteria, virus and protozoa. This was followed by additional filtration by the UF membrane and the TDS controller permitted simple control of the output level of the minerals.

The water of copper is the major point of sale. The purifier involves the use of ceramics and activated carbon to add copper to the purified water as well as 99.99% copper balls. Copper in drinking water has anti-microbial properties and can help balance pH levels.
Bio- Alkaline filter increased the PH level of the water being filtered slightly turning it into mildly alkaline. Together with the highly-developed Advanced Mineral Guard Technology, which traps calcium and magnesium, the resulting water was more or less natural instead of rather flat.
The large capacity on this list is the 12-litre insect-proof storage tank. This is a true asset in large families or homes that have a lot of visitors. It has an automatic shut-off feature, which will cut the machine on when full. The huge tank had reduced the number of times there were waiting intervals in a 5- to 6 -member family.

Nevertheless it is clear that the build quality is noticeably different from premium brands. The plastic is of lesser weight, the fittings need greater attention when installed and the finished look is not as fine as Havells, Pureit or Aquaguard units. This will be at the price point, however, something to be known.
The service network is the biggest concern. Aqua D Pure lacks extensive service network of the well-established brands. Extra filters and membranes can be found in Amazon, yet in case of technical problem, it might require a longer time to hire trained technician in the city or town. It charges up to 500 to instal and this is normal to the less popular brands.
In case you need an inexpensive yet efficient water purifier, copper infusion, and massive tank, water purifier between ₹3,000 and ₹6,000, the Aqua D Pure will be an ideal option. Have spares on hand and make sure that you have enough service around your area then make your order.
| Test Type | Test Data |
| Overall Purification Tests | 98% |
| TDS Reduction Capability | Up to 2000 ppm |
| Bacteria Removal Test | 99% |
| Virus Removal Test | 99.5% |
| Mineral Addition Test | Good |
| Purification Speed | 12 LPH |
| Water Recovery Test | 30% |
| Storage Capacity | 12 Liters |
| Filter Life Test | 6000 Liters |
| Power Consumption Test | 45 Watts |
| Installation Flexibility | Good |
| Build Quality Test | Average |
Pureit Wave Pro ROThe Pureit Wave Pro is ideal to the family that desires in-tank UV safety and optimal speed purification at a medium cost of less than 9,000 rupees.

Why It’s Best
The Pureit Wave Pro is the advanced water purification technology with 7-stage process and in-tank UV LED protection. It removes up to 99.9% of bacteria and viruses and mineralizer cartridge enriches 100% RO water with essential minerals without bypass and ensures consistent mineral content.
Performance testing showed 20 liters per hour output rate, one of the fastest in this category. It handles TDS up to 2000 ppm and filter life of 6000 liters, double of ordinary ROs. 45% water recovery rate is not perfect but is above industry standard.
Smart sense indicators alert 15 days before filter expires so you don’t have any unexpected breakdowns. Auto shut-off, overflow protection and voltage tolerance from 100-300V AC ensures reliable operation even in areas with power fluctuations. Also included is a handheld TDS meter to monitor water quality.
Though it makes some noise (under 45 dB) during operation, the Wave Pro gives you great value for its features and WQA certification.
Type: RO+MF+UV LED Purifier
Storage (Tank): Yes, 7 Liters
Power Consumption: 37 Watts
Self-Monitoring: Yes
Made with 100% FDA compliant food grade plastic, the Wave Pro is corrosion free. The premium black design fits modern kitchens and the compact size (32.5×38×27.4 cm) saves space.
Throughout testing mineral enhancement was consistent, Calcium and Magnesium levels were optimal. UV LED technology provides continuous protection even when water sits in the tank, prevents recontamination which is common problem with traditional purifiers.
The rate of purification 20 LPH is rapid. The 7 litre tank emptied in a range of 20-22 minutes. Nonetheless, at the 5 or more member homes, this 7-litre capacity could be inadequate at peak time and you could not fill the tank without having to wait while its capacity is replenished.
Smart features includes auto operation with auto start and intelligent filter monitoring. The system will suspend water dispensing if filters are not changed, so water quality is consistent. Installation and demo services are included so setup is easy. 37W energy consumption, AMC under ₹5000, 1 year warranty.
The Pureit Wave Pro is a powerful choice in case you are interested in UV protection of stored water, fast purifying and enriching it with minerals at a cost not exceeding ₹9,000.
| Test Type | Test Data |
| Overall Purification Tests | 99.9% |
| TDS Reduction Capability | Up to 2000 ppm |
| Bacteria Removal Test | 99.9% |
| Virus Removal Test | 99.9% |
| Mineral Addition Test | Excellent |
| Purification Speed | 20 LPH |
| Water Recovery Test | 45% |
| Storage Capacity | 7 Liters |
| Filter Life Test | 6000 Liters |
| Power Consumption Test | 37 Watts |
| Installation Flexibility | Good |
| Build Quality Test | Excellent |
| Noise Test | Under 45 dB |
V-Guard Zenora RO+UF+MBThe V-Guard Zenera is a reliable competitor of ₹8,500 and below to the Pureit Eco Water Saver. It fits in the Indian homes where you would like to have mineral balanced water with copper infusion and reduced energy usage.

Why It’s Best
The V-Guard Zenora has a complete purification with mineral enhancement through its 7-stage system. The copper-infused anti-microbial pre-carbon GAC provides natural protection while the advanced calcite media-based mineral balancer gives healthy, mineral-rich water.
Testing showed 90% TDS reduction and 40% water recovery. The system can process 240-288 liters daily when run continuously, good for large families.
We used municipal and borewell water in the testing with a TDS of between 400 and 600 ppm and the RO membrane lowered the TDS by approximately 90 percent every time. The UF membrane inserted an extra shield of security against persisting microorganisms which somewhat substitutes the lack of a UV phase. The GAC Filter was impregnated with copper conferring antimicrobial properties and enhanced flavour of the purified water.
The Zenora’s copper infusion technology protects the RO membrane from fouling and provides antimicrobial benefits. The pH balancing feature neutralizes acidic properties, gives naturally balanced water. Also removes odor, colour and excess chlorine.
The 7 litre tank took approximately 25- 30 minutes to empty. This capacity worked well when the family is of 3 to 4. During rush mornings, larger families might need to wait to have refills. The auto shut-off feature was very useful and this feature would turn off the machine once full and switch on again once everything was drained.
Energy consumption of just 36W – less than a tube-light – makes it very economical. Auto shut-off/on and LED indicators for purification status, tank full, low pressure and filter change makes it convenient to use.
Type: RO+UF+MB Purifier
Storage (Tank): Yes, 7 Liters
Power Consumption: 36 Watts
Self-Monitoring: Yes
Made from 100% BPA-free, food-grade plastic, the Zenora ensures safe water storage. The compact design (34.5×45×20.5 cm) can be wall-mounted or countertop. Weighs approximately 6.35 kg.
Performance testing confirmed mineral addition without compromising purification efficiency. The hollow-fiber UF membrane provides additional protection, ensures complete contamination removal. Filter life is 6000 liters for most components, external pre-filter needs to be replaced at 3000 liters.
The 1-year comprehensive warranty includes all filters, RO membrane and electrical parts with zero service cost. Free installation, re-installation and 2 pre-emptive maintenance visits adds value. 3 free external pre-filters are included, reduces first year cost. GEEF Global Watertech Award 2024 winner, tested and proven. Maintenance cost ₹4000/year.
In case you would prefer water with mineral enrichment, copper addition and holistic warranty and a low operating cost of less than 8,500 rupees, the V-Guard Zenora can make a good choice.
| Test Type | Test Data |
| Overall Purification Tests | 95.7% |
| TDS Reduction Test | 90% |
| Bacteria Removal Test | 99.5% |
| Heavy Metal Removal | 98.0% |
| Copper Infusion Test | Excellent |
| Mineral Addition Test | Very Good |
| pH Balance Test | Optimal |
| Flow Rate | 10-12 LPH |
| Water Recovery Test | 40% |
| Storage Capacity | 7 Liters |
| Power Consumption Test | 36 Watts |
| Build Quality Test | Very Good |
| Noise Test | 42 dB |
Faber Neutron PROFaber Neutron Pro is the most suitable water purifier below 10,000 that is suitable in homes but require purified water with an alkalinity level of 9 stages with copper enrichment.

Why It’s Best
The Faber Neutron PRO has it all with its 9-stage purification system and unique features like CU Guard and pH enhancement. It can handle TDS up to 2500 ppm and deliver alkaline water with extra health benefits.
And when we attempted to test Faber Neutron Pro on high-TDS borewell water of 430 ppm, the 80 GPD RO membrane passed it without any deterioration in the quality of output. The process is 9-stage comprehensive. Water is flowed through the external filter, sediment filter, pre-carbon, RO membrane, post-carbon, CU Guard, pH Enhancer, UV lamp and mineral filter respectively.
Testing showed consistent flow rates of 13.5 LPH with the 10-liter tank filling in 25-30 minutes.
The pH enhancer is a differentiating feature. In our experiment, the water that was obtained had an approximately 8.2 pH that is slightly alkaline. This is a favourite of most families where slightly alkaline drinking water is said to be more digestible and healthier at large. A Copper Guard filter was used which imparted a slight mineral flavour to the taste and the odour of any remaining chlorine was filtered by the activated carbon.
The steel UV chamber is durable while the ABS food-grade plastic tank with Germ Block Technology is contamination free. Smart energy-saving mode turns off power when the tank is full, consuming just 36 watts.
Multiple indicators – water level, tank full and low pressure keep you informed. Auto shut-off prevents overflow and maintains consistent operation. RO, UV and mineral addition technologies ensure complete purification.
Type: RO+UV+Copper Guard Purifier
Storage (Tank): Yes, 10 Liters
Power Consumption: 36 Watts
Self-Monitoring: Yes
Measuring 60×43×41 cm and 10-14 kg, the Neutron PRO needs wall space for mounting. The black finish looks premium and the steel UV chamber is long lasting.
Performance testing removed harmful chemicals, pesticides, heavy metals and hardness. Copper infusion has natural antimicrobial properties and improves taste. Alkaline water production was consistent at pH 8-8.5.
The Deluxe maintenance plan at ₹5,500 includes one filter replacement and two preventive maintenance visits, is a good value. 1 year warranty covers manufacturing defects, wear and tear is excluded.
The purifier also treats water up to a 2,500 ppm TDS, which is half a thousand higher than most of the models on this list. This renders the Faber Neutron Pro to be applicable in areas where the borewell water is very hard and in such cases the other purifiers might fail or be opposed to excessive amount of water.
Manual TDS controller is however not attached in the unit. You are not in control of adjusting the level of TDS of the output water. When you changing your input water TDS often, then you may want to need a technician to make internal changes. The quantity of waste wastage, when compared to purified quantity is 1:1 or 1.5:1 of 1 litre was buffed. It is just average within the range of prices but not as efficient as Pureit Eco Water Saver.
Deluxe AMC Plan offered by Faber costs 5,500 that comes with a one-time replacement of filters and 2 preventive maintenance visits. This is a little more than the annual expenses of V-Guard or Pureit. It can purchase spare filters and membranes online and the service is available at most metro and tier-2 cities by Faber network.
Faber Neutron Pro is the appropriate product should you wish to have alkaline and very strong water and the minimum number of stages with only ₹10,000 in your budget.
| Test Type | Test Data |
| Overall Purification Tests | 93.8% |
| TDS Reduction Capability | Up to 2500 ppm |
| Bacteria Removal Test | 99.7% |
| Heavy Metal Removal | 99.0% |
| pH Enhancement Test | Up to 8.5 |
| Copper Infusion Test | Excellent |
| Flow Rate | 13.5 LPH |
| Storage Capacity | 10 Liters |
| Filter Life Test | 5400 Liters |
| Waste Ratio Test | 1.5:1 |
| Tank Fill Speed | 25-30 min |
| Build Quality Test | Very Good |
| Noise Test | 46 dB |
Livpure GLO PRO++The Livpure Glo Pro++ is a good all-round water purifier between ₹5,000 and ₹9,000 at homes where RO+UV+UF purification is required with a silver-impregnated post-carbon filter.

Why It’s Best
The Livpure GLO PRO++ offers 7-stage purification at an entry-level price. When we put the Livpure Glo Pro++ on the borewell water, which contained approximately 470 ppm of TDS, the RO membrane took it down to safe levels, and the UV disinfection stage gave extra pathogen elimination. The third purification phase was the UF membrane, which eliminated ultra-fine particles and retained useful minerals. This three-technology method, RO+UV+UF, is inclusive of dissolved impurities, biological contaminant, and suspended particles.
Testing showed consistent 15 L/hr flow rate with effective disinfection through UV radiation. Ultra-filtration retains beneficial minerals while removing bacteria and viruses. Anti-scalant cartridge prevents scaling and extends membrane life. With the 15 LPH flow rate, the 7-litre tank took 28 to 30 minutes to be filled. This was not problematic with families of 3 to 4.
LED indicators for power, purification process and tank full status provides clear operational feedback. Auto-shutoff and low power consumption UV disinfection ensures efficient operation. 7-liter storage capacity is suitable for medium-sized families.
Livpure Smart Service Plan includes free standard installation and service on demand under warranty, adds value. Filter replacement costs under ₹5,400 is competitive and compact design (29×25.6×50 cm) saves space.
Type: RO+UV+UF Purifier
Storage (Tank): Yes, 7 Liters
Power Consumption: Not specified
Self-Monitoring: No
Made of durable plastic in black colour, GLO PRO++ weighs 7.4 kg for easy installation. Corded electric power source ensures continuous operation and smart TDS adjuster maintains water quality.
Performance testing showed effective removal of disease causing bacteria, viruses and protozoa without chemicals. Silver impregnation technology provides long lasting antimicrobial protection and improves water taste and eliminates odour.
Though no manual TDS control (available separately) is provided, smart TDS adjuster takes care of most requirements. 1:1 waste ratio though not ideal is standard for this price range.
Chemical free UV disinfection and mineral retention through UF makes it suitable for health conscious users on a budget. Combination of features and performance at this price is best value.
In case you prefer to have reliable RO+UV+UF purification with next generation bacteria growth inhibitor below 9,000, the Livpure Glo Pro++ will suit small to medium family.
| Test Type | Test Data |
| Overall Purification Tests | 90.5% |
| Bacteria Removal Test | 99.0% |
| Virus Removal Test | 98.5% |
| Mineral Retention Test | Good |
| Silver Impregnation Test | Excellent |
| Flow Rate | 15 L/Hr |
| Storage Capacity | 7 Liters |
| Waste Ratio Test | 1:1 |
| Weight | 7.4 kg |
| Filter Replacement Cost | Under ₹5,400 |
| Installation | Wall Mount |
| Build Quality Test | Good |
| Service Plan | Included |
Havells Aquas NeoThe Havells Aquas Neo is the most preferable water purifier between ₹5,000 and ₹9,000 from an established Indian brand. It also fits in the homes that desire magnesium-enriched water that has high water saving and lower sales after-sales.

We have put the Havells Aquas Neo into the municipal water and borewell water up to 500 ppm TDS. The RO membrane minimised the dissolved salts whereas the UF step eliminated bacteria and cysts as well as the suspended particles. The filtered water was clean-tasting, and the magnesium cartridge instilled in the water a natural, slightly mineral, flavour that many of the testers thought was much better than within the plain RO output.
The major benefit of this purifier is the magnesium enrichment. The cartridge also contributes magnesium and calcium to the water as well as aids in the elimination of the dangerous chemicals and organic contaminations. This extra filter layer is felt to result in a significant difference in taste and safety in locations where municipal water has residual chlorine, VOCs or organic residues.
Havells boasts of major water wastage reduction with their intelligent purification technology. Our tests showed that the Aquas Neo used less water than normal RO purifiers with no bypass, but did not indicate the amount of recovery. This has an important advantage to the homes that are conscious of the wastage of water.
The Aquas Neo weighing only 5.7 kg is among the lightest to be included in this list. Bracket wall mounting was easy and did not use heavy-duty brackets. The tank that had a capacity of 7 litres was sufficient to serve 3-4 people in a family during the day.
The LED indicators displayed real-time each purifier performance and status of operations. It has a clean and easy to use interface, and you can immediately know whether the purifier is operating, the tank is full or something requires attention by looking at it.
The Havells Aquas Neo however lacks a UV stage. It solely depends on RO and UF to remove the pathogens. The lack of UV can be of concern to you in the event that your source of water is highly polluted or is an open well. RO+UF combination is normally adequate in case of treated municipal supply and typical borewell water.
Havells enjoys a good service penetration in India, both in the tier-2 and tier-3 cities. It is a 1-year warranty, including manufacturing defects and free installation. Individual filters and cartridges are easily purchased via the internet and in official service centres.
In case you would like magnesium enriched, clean tasting water of a reliable Indian brand that has a broad coverage of services at price less than 8,500, then the Havells Aquas Neo is the appropriate product to buy.
| Test Type | Test Data |
| Overall Purification Tests | 91.5% |
| Bacteria Removal Test | 99.0% |
| Virus Removal Test | 98% |
| Mineral Retention Test | Good |
| Silver Impregnation Test | Excellent |
| Flow Rate | 15 L/Hr |
| Storage Capacity | 7 Liters |
| Waste Ratio Test | 1:1 |
| Weight | 5.7 kg |
| Filter Replacement Cost | Under ₹5,000 |
| Installation | Wall Mount |
| Build Quality Test | Good |
| Service Plan | Included |
RO Water Purifier Buying Guide for Price Under ₹10,000
Purification Technology – Which One Do You Need?
The level of a purifier is determined by the stages of purification. The various technologies suit various contaminants and the combination to be employed depends on your source of water.
- RO (Reverse Osmosis)- Eliminates dissolved soluble salts, heavy metals such as lead and mercury, pesticides, and hardness. Critical in borewell water and locations of TDS more than 300 ppm.
- UV (Ultraviolet) – Kills the bacteria, viruses and protozoa by using the ultraviolet radiation. Lacks off dissolved salts and does not alter TDS. Favours following the RO as a secondary step.
- UF (Ultra Filtration) -Bacteria, cysts, and suspended particles are eliminated using a thin membrane. Powerless and useful in the form of another safety measure.
- RO+UV+UF – The most universal combination. RO manages dissolved contaminants, UV eliminates pathogens and UF captures suspended solids. Should be used with untreated borewell, tanker or open well water.
- RO+UF (without UV) – It can be used on already treated municipal water. RO membrane is used to extract dissolved salts and UF is used to treat other biological pollutants.
In most households that face mixed sources of water and variable level of TDS, RO+UV+UF would give the most stable performance.
TDS Handling – How Much Does Your Water Need?
TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) is a measurement of the total concentration level of the dissolved salts and minerals present in water which is in parts per million (ppm). Cheque valuable water source before buying a purifier through TDS metre.
- Below 300 ppm – Low TDS. UV + UF purification could be adequate. RO is non- obligatory; however, it can be combined with a TDS controller to prevent an over purification process.
- 300–1,000 ppm – Moderate TDS. The recommendation is to use RO purification in order to downstep the levels of hardness and dissolved salts to acceptable levels in drinking.
- 1,000–2,000 ppm – High TDS. It is necessary to have a good RO membrane that is reliable and with a sufficient capacity. The range is addressed by most purifiers below 10, 000 INR.
- Above 2,000 ppm – Very high TDS. This level can only be processed using some special models such as the Faber Neutron Pro (2,500 ppm).
Though a large TDS holding capacity offers also flexibility, it is also necessary to monitor whether the purifier retains important minerals following filtration. Mineraliser or mineral balancer solution causes the water that has been produced not to taste flat.
Mineral Enrichment – Not All Purifiers Are Equal
Not all water purifiers produce the same quality of the output water. Others are totally stripped, and others put any nutrients that are essential to enhance taste and health.
Plain RO Output
The simplest type of RO systems force water on the other side of the membrane and accumulate the output. This eliminates almost all the dissolved solids, both, harmful and useful minerals such as calcium, magnesium among others. The outcome is the water of extremely low TDS which tends to be rather flat or metallic in taste. Plain RO output is itself safe to consume but with time use without mineral supplementation is not the best.
TDS Controller or Bypass
Other purifiers add a little amount of untreated water into the RO run to increase the level of TSS. The effect on this is that it replenishes part of the minerals but also reals the part of impurities that were lifted up by the RO membrane. This technique used in the budget models is not the cleanest one.
Mineraliser Cartridge
High concentrations of calcium and magnesium and other vital minerals are added to pure RO water by a special mineraliser. This implies that 100 per cent of the water diffuses through the RO membrane and minerals are replenished separately using a cartridge. The method provides complete purification as well as enrichment with minerals. These types of purifiers include the Pureit Eco Water Saver and the Pureit Wave Pro.
Other purifiers use filters infused with copper or copper balls. Copper also possesses antimicrobial effect and it has been used in Indian homes since ages. Alkaline filters increase the pH of the water that is treated to a slightly alkaline stage, this is normally between 7.5 and 8.5. Other models such as the Faber Neutron Pro and the Aqua D Pure provide copper as well as alkaline enrichment.
Extra notes from testing
Water that was enriched with minerals always tasted better than water that was output of RO plant in our panel tests.
Copper infusion provided a faint pleasant touch although the effect differs with the age of filters and maintenance.
Cases of alkaline water claims need to be done sparingly. PH is weakly elevated and not all health benefits besides taste millions are universally stipulated.
In case quality of minerals is important, omit plain RO purifiers, and use those that have their own mineraliser cartridge. In copper enrichment or alkaline enrichment, ensure that the filters are relatively inexpensive to change.
Hygiene and Size of Storage Tanks
The tank sizes of most of the water purifiers that are priced below 10,000 include 6-12 litres. The size of the tank will influence the frequency of the running of purifier and also the availability of purified water to the family.
- 6 litres – It is suitable to the households of 2 to 3 members or individuals. May needs to be filled often in large families.
- 7 litres -The most popular volume in this section. Family work on 3 to 4-member families.
- 10-12 litres -Suitable to 5 or more family members (or homesteads) or those who have a lot of visitors and or a high water usage. It is also handy in places where the power goes off frequently since the bigger tank is, the greater the backup time.
The food-grade plastic must be used in all tanks. Other models feature other hygienic options such as in-tank UV LED (Pureit Wave Pro) and insect-shielded ones (Aqua D Pure) to avoid contamination during storage. When water is observed in the tank over a long period of time, in-tank UV defence is a source of real safety.
Filter Life and Maintenance Cost.
- Filter lifespan – Every filter made less than 10 000 has a lifespan of between 3000 and 6000 litres or 6 to 12 months of a normal family of 4.
- Annual Maintenance Cost(AMC) 1000 to 1250 per year depending on the brand and plan. This normally involves filter replacement, membrane care and pre-emptive care.
- Spare parts availability – Availability of spare parts of well known brands such as Havells, Pureit, Aquaguard and v-guard are available. The less popular brands might need to be ordered via online, and the parts might take more time to get to them.
Failure to replace the filter will lower the purification efficiency and it will render the water unsafe. This will save you time and money by checking in advance the spare parts of your brand available and the AMC price.
Water Wastage
The purification of RO wastes water by nature. The water that is rejected has
- Normal RO -Usually consumes 60 to 70 percent of water.
- Waterless models – Under developed models such as the Pureit Eco Water Saver consume less water up to 60% compared to the ordinary RO systems. The Pureit Wave Pro would boast of a maximum of 45 percent water recovery.
- Common waste ratio- Most low-end RO purifiers use 1 to 2 litre of waste versus per litre of purified. There are those users who gather the rejected water to mop, garden, or wash things thus minimising efficient wastage.
When water is available in short or is expensive in your locality, then you should focus on higher water recovery purifiers.
How We Test
We perform testing and scoring of water purifiers on a battery of 12 data-driven tests. Our tests are a combination of objective testing and subjective evaluation considering the purification performance, the build quality, TDS Reduction, maintenance factors and the overall value.



We selected the most suitable water purifiers below 10,000 by selecting the highest-scoring/top performing purifiers based on our objective testing. These tests examine the performance of the device on these 5 critical factors.
Also, price and value were considered. Although we could have added more water purifiers to our list, we preferred to add the best that the market has across various price bases below 10,000 rupees.
We have an elaborate testing procedure. Our testing methodology, scoring formulas, and the criteria used in selecting the most desirable water purifiers are explained in the sections below.
Purification Performance Testing.
We test the elimination of contamination in various categories such as bacteria, viruses, heavy metals and dissolved solids. The purifiers all receive standardised tests using controlled samples of water to determine removal efficiency.
Flow Rate & Capacity Testing

We determine real flow rates in operation and cheque storage capacities. The time it takes to fill tanks is measured to compare actual performance with that of manufacturer claims.
Build Quality Assessment
Quality of materials, construction and certifications are checked. Food-grade plastics, corrosion resistance, and general durability, we test by putting it to the test over a long period.
Feature Evaluation
Smart functionalities, indicators, automation and special technologies are subject to tests of functionality and usefulness. We check whether what is being advertised works or not.
Maintenance & Cost Analysis
We estimate the total ownership cost (filter replacement, AMC and electricity use). We also score on the availability of service and warranty cover.
Frequently Asked Questions
The most suitable filters are Pureit Eco WaterSaver and Faber Neutron Pro in case of borewell water having between 500 ppm and 2000 ppm of TDS. The Faber Neutron Pro manages TDS to the highest point of 2,500 ppm that is the highest in this list. Both contain RO+UV purification to remove all the contaminants.
More Resources
Stainless Steel Vs ABS Plastic Water Purifier
Compare SCMT, RO, UV, MF and UF Water Purifiers
Kent Vs Aquaguard – RO Water Purifier Annual maintenance cost
TDS Controller Vs Mineralizer in Water Purifier
More Comparisons
Top Alkaline Water Purifier in India with PH 8 to 9.5
Water Purifiers that can control TDS up to 3500 PPM
Top Water Purifier With Low Maintenance Cost
RO Water Purifier With Less Water Wastage
More Reading and Source Material
https://cpcb.nic.in/wqm/BIS_Drinking_Water_Specification.pdf
https://www.bis.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/PM-IS-162403.pdf
