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I’ve installed several under-sink reverse osmosis systems over the years, and I just replaced one I liked with the Waterdrop X16, wondering whether I’d notice much difference. I did. The X16 takes up less under-sink space because there’s no separate holding tank, the filters are much easier to change, and—most noticeably—it produces purified water faster than tank-style RO systems. It even measures the dispensed amount in ounces.
Ahead, I’ll cover what makes this unit special, how it earned high marks in my review, and the one minor change I’d ask Waterdrop to make.
Best High-Flow RO System
Photo: Glenda Taylor for BobVila.com
What We Like
- Exceptionally fast water flow
- Precise automatic dispensing
- Individual twist-out filters
What We Don’t Like
- Faucet display sits high
Specs
- Capacity: 1,600 GPD (gallons per day)
- Filtration: 11 stages
- Pure-to-drain ratio: 3:1
- Dimensions: 18.2 x 6.25 x 16.72 inches
How Easy Is the Waterdrop X16 to Install?
Installation was easier than I expected for a system this advanced. The tubing uses plug-in connections, and the three main filters slide behind the front cover, where each can be twisted out and replaced independently. I added a line to feed purified water to my refrigerator ice maker, and the X16 supplied it without the pressure problems I’ve encountered with conventional RO systems.
Waterdrop takes the initial flushing seriously. Once installation was complete, the system automatically ran through a 35-minute flush while the faucet display counted down. There was no temptation to shorten the process or wonder whether I’d flushed it long enough.
Fast Water Flow Without a Storage Tank
This is where the X16 really impressed me. Waterdrop rates it at 1,600 gallons per day, and in everyday use the difference between this and my previous RO systems was evident. I filled a 2-gallon jug and immediately filled a large cooking pot afterward without the flow weakening.
That matters to anyone who uses a lot of water for cooking or drinking. Conventional RO systems start slowing down once their small storage tanks are depleted. The X16, on the other hand, dispenses huge volumes of water on demand. I found it far more convenient for cooking and filling pitchers with purified water. It occasionally runs an automatic cycle that I can hear if I’m standing near the sink, but the sound is subdued. It never bothered me.
The Smart Faucet Is More Useful Than I Expected
I initially thought the digital faucet might be more gadget than necessity. Then I started using the measured-dispensing feature.
The dial lets me select an amount (in ounces), press the control, and walk away while the faucet dispenses exactly that amount before stopping. I checked its accuracy with several measuring cups, and it was spot-on every time. When a bread recipe called for 1½ cups of water, I simply placed the bread-machine pan beneath the faucet, selected 12 ounces, and pressed the button—no measuring cup and no splashing.
The faucet also displays information for the three filters so I can see when each needs attention rather than replacing everything at once. My only complaint is placement: the display and dial sit on top of the relatively tall faucet. At 5 feet 8 inches tall, I still have to stretch slightly to read it. Shorter users may find that annoying.
Who Is the Waterdrop X16 Best For?
The X16 makes the most sense for households that use substantial amounts of purified water and are tired of waiting for a traditional RO tank to refill. It’s also appealing for cooks because of the measured dispensing, and its strong flow makes connecting an ice maker much more practical.
The water itself was excellent in my testing: crystal clear, clean-tasting, and perfect for making clear iced tea. Waterdrop also lists NSF/ANSI 42, 58, and 372 certifications and a 3:1 pure-to-drain ratio, meaning its safety standards and wastewater production are independently verified.
This is a premium RO system, and smaller households that only fill a few drinking glasses each day probably don’t need its capacity. But for busy kitchens, larger families, or anyone frustrated by slow RO flow, the X16’s successful combination of speed, excellent water quality, and genuinely useful smart features in one well-designed system makes it a winner.
Where to Buy
Photo: Glenda Taylor for BobVila.com