If you are looking for the best water purifier in India for home, first check your water source and TDS. Municipal water in many cities falls around 50–300 ppm, so a UV UF purifier is enough and you can avoid RO water wastage. Borewell water TDS is commonly above 300 ppm, so an RO purifier is the better choice.
You can quickly check your water’s TDS using a simple TDS meter, but TDS alone doesn’t confirm safety. Your water can have 200 TDS and still have issues like fluoride or heavy metals in small amounts, and a TDS meter won’t tell you that. If you are not sure about the water quality in your area, check local water reports or do a basic lab test.

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Water Purifier Comparison Table (2026)
This table covers the best RO water purifiers for borewell water, ideal for TDS above ~300 ppm.
| Water Purifier Model | Purifier Type | Key Point |
|---|---|---|
| UC Native M1/M2 | RO UV Copper Minerals | AMC ₹5,000 for 2 years (lowest in this list) |
| Atomberg Intellon | RO UV UF Minerals | Low Filter Prices, Manual TDS Setting via App |
| Pureit Revito Prime | RO UV MF Minerals | Better taste + lower water wastage |
| Sure from Aquaguard Delight NXT | RO UV | Best RO Under 8,000 |
| Kent Supreme Alkaline | RO UV UF Alkaline, Copper TDS Controller | Alkaline Water with PH 8 |
| AO Smith Z9 Pro | RO, SCMT Copper Minerals | Steel Tank + Hot water |
| Pureit Wave Pro, Prime, Plus | RO UV UF Minerals | Compact Design, Good water taste, Budget Pricing |
| Aquaguard Ritz Pro | RO UV UF Copper Minerals | Stainless Steel Tank + 2 year filter life |
| Livpure Allura Premia | RO UV UF Copper Minerals | 2.5 Years Free service including filters |
| Aquaguard Blaze Insta Hot | RO UV Copper Minerals | Dual Steel Tank + Hot water |
If the TDS in your water is below 300 ppm, then you don’t need an RO (and your place doesn’t have known fluoride/heavy-metal issues), these UV UF models are worth considering.
Pureit Wave UV UF and Havells Aquas Lite UV UF are simple and reliable picks for municipal water. If you want a stainless-steel tank, Aquaguard Marvel NXT stands out. For a model that’s older but well-tested, Kent Max UV is still a familiar option.
How did we test these models?

We purchased and installed these models in our office and home kitchens and matched them to the water source. We connected RO purifiers to borewell/groundwater lines and used UV/UF models on municipal supply.
We tested each model for one year before reviewing its performance, features, pros, and cons.
Besides testing their performance levels, we checked the longevity of the filters and membranes. That gave us an idea of each model’s maintenance costs and AMC pricing. We also dealt with installations and service visits first-hand, which gave us a clear idea of how each brand handles support after the sale.
Best Water Purifiers in India 2026

1. Urban Company Native M1 and M2
Best RO Water Purifier in India with least AMC in the market. (₹5,000 for 2 Years)
Pros
- Lowest AMC cost in its class — ₹5,000 for 2 years, including filters.
- 2-year product warranty on both models.
- 8L storage tank with 10-stage RO+UV (+copper/alkaline) purification.
- Solid build quality and modern, compact design.
- Tray for holding bottles or glasses while filling.
- Touch dispense presets in M2 for glass or bottle filling.
Cons
- M2 cannot dispense water without electricity.
- Service is excellent in cities and some towns but slower/poor in rural areas with third-party technicians.
- Water wastage is high

This RO is one of the best for low maintenance cost and reliable performance. If you live in an area with frequent power cuts, choose the M1. f your power supply is stable and you want a touch-screen dispensing panel with preset pour modes, choose the M2.
The UC Native series is ideal because the maintenance cost is fixed and predictable. The 2-year AMC (₹5,000) includes all routine filter changes and service visits. In our two years of use, the build quality has remained solid, and the taste has been consistent across seasons.
Read More
The 10-stage purification stack ensures that Borewell and tanker water is handled well. Please note that UC Native models are only suitable for high TDS water above 300 ppm. If the TDS water in your water is low there is no need for an RO unless your water source has flouride, arsenic or lead.

Both UC Native models have a convenient tray to hold bottles while filling, but the M2’s touch presets make it easier to fill a measured glass or bottle with a single press.

The difference between them is in dispensing. M1’s tap works without power, which is a big advantage in outage-prone areas. M2’s touch panel needs electricity even for dispensing, so it is best suited to homes with stable power. Apart from this, the filtration performance and storage are identical.

Service quality depends heavily on location. In cities and larger towns, Urban Company’s own technicians handle installations and maintenance. In rural areas, service is passed to third-party providers, which can mean slower response times and variable quality. If your pincode is directly serviced by Urban Company, these models are among the most cost-effective choices in the market.

2. Atomberg Intellon
Best water purifier in India, suitable for all water sources, with low filter prices and manual TDS setting via app
Pros
- Output-TDS can be adjusted from the app to control taste and quality.
- Four modes — Adaptive Flow, RO-UV, Taste Tune, and Vacay — for different needs.
- Filter life tracking in the app for accurate maintenance planning.
- No compulsory AMC; replace filters only when required.
- Water taste is clean and consistent.
Cons
- low inlet pressure will require a booster pump.
- Service availability varies by city.
- Water wastage exsits if the TDS in your water is high

Atomberg RO is the most versatile model we have tested because it lets you set the output TDS to match your source. It is suitable for homes that switch between borewell, tanker, and municipal water during the year.
The Intellon is ideal because it gives full control over water taste without relying on a technician. Adaptive Flow mode works for everyday use, while RO-UV mode provides full RO treatment when needed. Taste Tune lets you make small adjustments if the taste changes with a new water source, and Vacay mode reduces wear when usage is low.
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In our testing, we switched between municipal water at 150 ppm TDS and borewell water above 600 ppm. Adjusting the output-TDS from the app kept the taste consistent in both cases, without needing any hardware changes. This is a clear advantage over fixed-TDS systems, where taste can swing noticeably when the source changes.

The filter-life tracker is reliable and removes the guesswork from maintenance. There is no forced AMC, so you pay only when a filter actually needs replacing. As of now, Atomberg has been including a booster pump at no extra cost for homes with low inlet pressure, making it easier to install in apartments.




Compared to most ROs in this price range, Intellon stands out for its customisation and transparent upkeep. If you have stable service access and want control over taste and TDS, it is one of the most practical choices in the market today. You can find Filter charges and indpeth details about this water purifier here Atomberg Intellon Review

3. HUL Pureit ECO Water Saver
This RO is the best water-saving model in India suitable for a Large family. If budget is not your criteria, you can go with this model
Pros
- The water purifying performance is excellent.
- This machine reduces water wastage considerably.
- The filter change indicator is handy.
- The HUL Pureit machine consumes less power than other RO water purifiers.
- Excellent design and good storage capacity
Cons
- It needs a pressure-enhancing attachment if water pressure is below 10psi.
- Customer service needs improvements.

The HUL Pureit Eco Water Saver appliance is ideal because the manufacturers claim this machine reduces water wastage by 60%. However, the water wastage percentage depends on the TDS levels. The lower the TDS levels, the lesser the wastage.
Note: If you are looking for the best budget RO Models around ₹6000 and ₹7000, you can opt for Pureit Wave Pro, Plus or Prime Models.
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Comparing it with other RO water purifiers, we found the HUL Pureit Eco Water Saver to be better. Otherwise, the water purification technology is the same as other RO water purifying appliances.

Instead of a TDS controller, this machine uses a mineral enrichment cartridge to replenish lost minerals like magnesium and calcium. This appliance can handle up to 2000 ppm TDS levels to purify all water sources.
The 10L water storage tank is sufficiently large to cater to the requirements of large-sized Indian families. The water purification rate depends on the TDS levels. During our testing with 800ppm TDS levels, the tank was filled in 30 minutes.
The wastage was around 8.5L for every 10L of water purified. The reject water had around 1100ppm TDS, whereas the RO-purified water had 150ppm.

The Germkill kit replacement indicator is handy because it alerts us beforehand to change the cartridge. Besides, the machine stops working when the filtering power is exhausted.
The storage tank does not have a transparent window to ascertain its water levels. Instead, it has an LED indicator that flashes only when the tank gets filled up. Otherwise, you cannot estimate the water levels in the tank.
Maintenance costs are high, especially with the Germkill kit costing around Rs 3,000. Another drawback is that the machine cannot purify water when the source pressure is less than 10psi or above 30psi. So it would be best to have a pressure-enhancing pump or a pressure-reducing valve.

Drawbacks will be present in every RO water purifier. However, this HUL Pureit Eco Water Saver RO water purifier is one of the best for under Rs 15,000.

4. Sure from Aquaguard Delight NXT
Aquaguard Sure RO is the best budget model but it wastes water and comes with a TDS Controller
Pros
- Adequate storage tank capacity of 6 liters
- 8-stage water purification and excellent performance
- Budget-friendly appliances and stylish looks
- Sensors and LED indicators are handy features.
- Free AMC for the first year
Cons
- Water wastage is usually observed in all RO water purifiers.
- High maintenance costs
- Ordinary after-sales services

Sure from Aquaguard Delight NXT is the best budget RO water purifier as it is available for under Rs 9000 in e-commerce retail stores like Amazon. This budget-friendly water purifier is ideal for small and medium Indian families.
Note: Other Good Aquaguard Models inlcude Aquaguard Blaze Insta Hot, Aquaguard Ritz Pro and Aquaguard Marvel. All these models have a Stainless Steel tank option.
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We advise checking TDS levels in the source water before finalizing your water purifier because TDS levels below 350 ppm do not require RO water purification. But this product from Eureka Forbes is an ideal choice on a low budget because it offers multiple water purification technologies like RO, UF, UV, and carbon filtration.

Besides, the I-filter removes suspended impurities, and the Chemi-Block filtration arrangement removes chlorine and other VOCs to enhance the water taste.
Water wastage is a recurring problem with all RO water purifiers. Still, the product manual of the Sure from Aquaguard Delight NXT says that it uses advanced water purification techniques to reduce water wastage by 60%. However, we tested the machine and found it is more of a marketing gimmick. Nevertheless, water wastage depends on the TDS levels in the input water source.

Besides the regular RO, UF, and UV water purification, this machine offers a Taste Adjuster feature, MTDS, to adjust the water taste depending on the water source. It is like the TDS controller feature offered by Kent and other machines.
Reintroducing raw water to the RO-purified water can re-contaminate it, but it replenishes the lost minerals like calcium and magnesium. However, tweaking the MTDS feature requires technical expertise, and consumers cannot change the setting after they fix it. Instead, the technician must reopen the machine and adjust the levels.

This machine does not occupy much space in the kitchen as you can mount it near the water source. It is beneficial because the water purifier cannot work if the pressure is lower than 5 psi. LED alerts are excellent features because you know when the filters and membrane need replacement.
The maintenance costs are high at around Rs 4,500. Depending on the water source quality, the filters, and RO membrane require frequent replacements. A free AMC is available for the first year.
Despite the drawbacks, the Sure from Aquaguard Delight NXT is a popular water purifier available at a reasonable price. So it is the best water purifier available at budget prices in India.

5. Kent Supreme Alkaline Water Purifier
Good RO Water purifier and gives water a taste that is similar to Mineral water because of the Alkaline booster.
Pros
- The purification performance is excellent but is better suited for water with moderate TDS levels.
- The attractive design adds to your kitchen’s ambiance.
- The in-tank UV-LED feature is innovative.
- The silent operation and 8L storage capacity make it an excellent choice for medium-sized Indian families.
Cons
- The maintenance and AMC costs are high.
- Zero water wastage is a misleading claim.
- The sediment filter is not part of the package.

Kent Supreme Alkaline water purifier differs from its contemporaries because it claims to increase alkaline content in water to make it taste better.
RO water purifiers are excellent for removing TDS and heavy metal impurities. Besides, they can also eliminate bacteria and viruses. However, removing the TDS entails removing essential salts, as well. So, the RO-purified water has pH levels bordering 7, which is neither acidic nor alkaline. So, the water does not taste good.
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Kent Supreme Alkaline water purifier sets this anomaly right by introducing alkaline content into RO-purified water and making the water slightly alkaline and taste better.

This water purifier has similar components to any other Kent RO water purifier, save for the Alkaline booster. It contains mineral balls that leech essential minerals like silica, calcium, copper, etc., to RO-purified water to increase its pH value and make it alkaline.
Performance-wise, this water purifier is like other Kent RO water purifiers because it uses the TDS controller mechanism to replenish the essential minerals lost during the RO water purification process.

The process is fine if the source water does not contain heavy metal impurities and contaminants like arsenic, lead, and mercury.
Another common problem with this Kent Supreme Alkaline water purifier is water wastage. Like all RO water purifiers, this model also wastes much water. But Kent has introduced a solution to reuse the rejected water by pumping it back to the overhead tank for recirculation.
This zero-water wastage claim is more of a misnomer because the machine does not eliminate water wastage.
A better solution would have been to collect the rejected water in 10/20L water cans and use the water for watering plants, washing bathroom floors, etc.

After RO purification, we checked the TDS levels and found them to be around 150 ppm. That should be ideal by WHO and BIS recommendations.
One excellent feature observed in this water purifier is the in-tank UV-LED purification to ensure that the RO water retains its purity until the consumption stage by eliminating recontamination of purified water by bacteria and viruses.

While the performance is excellent, the maintenance costs are high at around Rs 5000 to Rs 5500 annually. The AMC costs somewhere in this price range. Therefore, We recommend users take an AMC because it includes the cost of replacing filters and membranes.
The pricing is reasonable compared to similarly equipped RO water purifiers on the market. However, Kent could have included the sediment filter and pipe fittings in the original package.

6. HUL Pureit Vital
Good and Compact RO that comes with a Modern Design and is suitable for all kinds of water sources.
Pros
- Good water purification performance
- Sleek looks and compact appearance
- Smartsense indicators are handy.
- The machine wastes less water than other RO water purifiers.
Cons
- Maintenance costs are on the higher side

Installing Pureit Vital does not require any elaborate process. The company offers free installation, with the technician demonstrating its operations after the installation. The machine has a compact design and appearance that suits your kitchen ambiance. Depending on your customized preferences, you can wall-mount it or place it on the counter.
Note: Pureit Revito Prime is also an excellent model with best filter quality, compact design and excellent water savings.
Read More
Performance-wise, it is good and compares with other RO water purifiers. HUL claims that its FiltraPower technology kills bacteria and removes toxic chemicals, but it is not innovative because all UV lamp-equipped water purifiers perform similarly.

HUL also claims that its Eco Recovery technology saves water wastage by 60%. It is partially true because we have tested this machine, and the water wastage percentage is less than contemporary water purifiers.

This water purifier can handle TDS levels up to 2000 ppm. So, it is ideal for purifying all types of domestic water sources like Borewell water, overhead tanks, and tap water. Besides, this appliance features a Mineralizer attachment to replenish the lost minerals in RO-purified water. This feature is better than the TDS controller offered by Kent RO.
HUL claims that this machine requires less maintenance, but much depends on the TDS levels in the water source. The RO membrane and filters require replacement every 18 to 24 months. These components are expensive. Besides, the mineralizer cartridge needs regular replacement. So the maintenance costs are like any other RO water purifier.

Features like Smartsense indicators are useful because they alert users about replacing the filters a fortnight in advance. Secondly, the machine stops functioning after the filters lose their potency. So it caters to the hygiene factor well. Finally, the mineralizer and RO membrane can function up to 6000L of water purification.
The 7L storage tank is sufficient to satisfy the requirements of the average Indian family. The water purification rate is excellent at 24L per hour on average. However, much depends on the TDS levels present in the water source. The water storage tank is made of engineering-grade, non-toxic plastic. Hence, it lasts long.

7. Livpure Glo Pro++
This Livpure RO gives a better taste to water as it comes with a Mineralizer instead of a TDS Controller
Pros
- It can handle all water types, even with TDS levels up to 2000 ppm.
- Exciting design with excellent operational indicators
- The Taste Enhancer feature improves water taste after RO purification.
- This machine is priced reasonably.
Cons
- Water wastage is a common drawback of all RO water purifiers.
- The after-sales services need improvement.
- No pre-filter with the package

Homes depending on groundwater, Borewell or other resources deal with high TDS levels reaching 2000 ppm. This Livpure Glo Pro++ water purifier can handle all water types and deliver pure water for daily consumption.
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The versatility of the Livpure Glo Pro++ design makes it the most convenient to install. You can place the machine on the kitchen counter or mount it on the wall according to your preferences.

While Livpure does not offer the best after-sales services, especially for installation, the company offers a decent warranty and AMC facilities.
In addition, Livpure does not offer a pre-filter with the package. But We advise people to purchase one separately because it traps suspended impurities and protects the RO membrane.

Features-wise, this machine is no different from other RO water purifiers concerning RO water purification. However, it features a unique Taste Enhancer facility to improve water taste after RO purification.
Besides, the UV disinfection feature destroys bacteria and ensures 100% purified water. Furthermore, silver-impregnated membranes ensure high-quality water purification.

The 7L water storage tank is a handy feature and ideal for small Indian families. In addition, this water purifier takes around 15 to 20 minutes to fill the water tank. Exciting features include Power-On, tank-full, and water purification indicators.
Maintenance costs are high because the RO membrane is expensive. Replacement is necessary every 12 to 24 months, depending on the input water source TDS levels.

While the Livpure Glo Pro++ functioning and performance is not different from other water purifiers, the Taste Enhancer feature is better than the TDS controller Kent RO offers. This feature does not re-contaminate the purified RO water but adds essential minerals. Hence, this kitchen appliance is the best water purifier for Rs 10,000.

8. Kent Grand Plus
Good RO Water purifier and gives water a taste that is similar to Mineral water because of the Alkaline booster.
Pros
- The overall water purification performance is of the highest quality.
- The 9L water storage tank is sufficient for the average Indian household.
- The in-tank UV-LED purification feature is a well-thought-out idea to retain water purity until the final consumption stage.
- This machine has an excellent purification capacity of 20L/hour.
Cons
- Zero water wastage claim by Kent is a dampener.
- The package does not include a sediment filter.
- High maintenance costs

Kent Grand Plus is like the Kent Supreme Alkaline water purifier in many respects but without the capacity to make the water alkaline.
Water wastage is inevitable in the RO water purification process. There is no way for the machine to drain harmful TDS from the source water without wasting water.
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Performance-wise, there is little to choose between the Grand Plus and other Kent RO water purifier models. The purification stages are the same. The only addition is the introduction of UV-LED water purification in the storage tank. The latest Kent RO water purifiers, like the Kent Supreme Alkaline, also have this feature.

The TDS controller mechanism is Kent’s USP to enhance the output water’s taste. It is okay if the TDS in the original water source does not contain heavy metal impurities. Otherwise, it can be risky because the TDS controller introduces the source water after the RO water purification process. This water retains all the minerals (good or toxic) to mix with RO-purified water, enhance its TDS levels, and improve its taste.
So, this machine is a big NO if you live near industrial areas where metal impurities can be critically high. But it is a good measure if you live in areas with source water having moderate TDS levels.

While the Kent Supreme Alkaline features an Alkaline Booster, the Grand Plus model has a post-RO activated carbon filter to remove residual organic impurities and improve the water taste.
We have tested the water purification performance and found it excellent at 20 liters per hour. However, this value depends on the TDS levels in the original water source.

The maintenance costs are high, as you observe in almost all RO water purifiers. But We recommend you take an AMC costing around Rs 4000 to Rs 5000. It is a better option in the long run. Replacing the filters and membranes is equally expensive, but an AMC ensures proper servicing of the machine and replacement by genuine spare parts, RO membranes, and other filters.

9. AO Smith Z9 Pro
If you are looking for an RO Water Purifier with a Hot water dispenser, AO Smith Z9 Pro is the best option.
Pros
- Ability to dispense hot water at varying temperatures
- Patented side-stream RO membrane to enhance performance and membrane lifespan
- Silver Charged Membrane Technology to prevent microbial contamination.
- ZX dual filter for enhanced purification
- Night Assist feature
Cons
- Water Wastage
- Service needs improvement
Water purifier technologies keep improving, with the latest models like AO Smith Z9 Pro offering hot water dispensing facilities for added convenience. This machine can deliver normal and hot water in the 45 to 80 degrees Celsius temperature range. This feature enables the AO Smith Z9 Pro to qualify as one of the best water purifiers in India.
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Performance-wise, the AO Smith Z9 Pro ranks at the top because of its exciting additional purification facilities like SCMT and ART Max filters. In addition, the side-stream RO membrane is a unique feature where the source water enters the RO membrane from the sides. It improves the water purification process by preventing the accumulation of salts in a single place. Otherwise, the RO purification is the same as in other similarly equipped appliances.

Water wastage is unavoidable, but AO Smith claims its Advanced Recovery Technology saves more water than other RO machines. We have tested it and found it valid to a certain extent. However, water wastage depends on the water source quality. Nevertheless, this claim by AO Smith is better than the marketing gimmick, Zero Water Wastage, by Kent RO.

Other exciting features include the Advance Alert System, where the machine alerts you to replace the filters and RO membrane. Besides, the Auto Cleaning feature is innovative. Installing the machine is simple because of its versatility. But this machine occupies more space than other water purifiers.
AO Smith has a one-year warranty on the product, with the option of continuing with an AMC. However, the maintenance costs of the AO Smith Z9 are high, averaging around Rs 5,000 per month. In addition, the appliance is the most expensive water purifier on this list.
While the AO Smith Z9 Pro is expensive, it delivers excellent performance to qualify as India’s best water purifier under Rs 25,000.

10. V-Guard Zenora
Quality RO Water Purifier with No fancy features. Suitable for High TDS Water.
Pros
- Ideal for water with TDS levels up to 2000 ppm
- Excellent flow rate and adequate water storage
- 8-stage water purification plus Mineral Balancer feature
- LED indicators
- Easy to mount and good faucet arrangement,
Cons
- High water wastage
- High maintenance costs
- It cannot work under low water pressure.

Installing the V-Guard Zenora is simple because you can comfortably mount it on the wall or place it on the counter. Besides, the machine has an exquisite design that matches your kitchen ambiance. Moreover, the flashing LED indicators and the ergonomic faucet arrangement make it look sleek.Read More
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The LED indicators enhance user convenience levels. The flashing blue lights indicate that the purification process is active, whereas the red lights denote a lack of water supply or absence of purification. The 7L storage capacity should be ideal for the average Indian family.
Performance-wise, the 8-stage water purification includes RO and UV, this machine ranks among the best water purifiers in India for Borewell water under Rs 10,000. It can handle TDS levels up to 2000 ppm and purify all types of water.

Depending on the water source quality, this machine can achieve a water purification rate of 15 liters per hour. However, the machine cannot function when the water pressure is lower than 4 psi. Therefore, you need to install an additional water pump that costs extra.
V-Guard Zenora does not have a TDS controller. Instead, it features a novel arrangement, Calcite Mineral Balancer, equivalent to the Mineral Enhancer cartridge used in other machines. It balances the pH levels and replenishes the lost minerals in the RO-purified water to make it taste like Bisleri mineral water.

This water purifier has a unique UV lamp arrangement enclosed in a glass chamber, whereby the RO-purified water does not touch the UV lamp. Thus, it prolongs the lamp’s lifespan. Besides, pre and post-carbon filters remove VOCs and foul odor from water to enhance its taste.
Maintenance costs are expensive because the filters and membranes require regular replacement. Generally, it costs around Rs 4,000.

The machine has a comprehensive one-year warranty covering all filters, electrical parts, and RO membranes. V-Guard also offers one free re-installation facility, free replacement of two pre-filters, and two pre-emptive maintenance services.
These features make the V-Guard Zenora a favorite, with consumers living in areas with water sources containing more than 400 ppm TDS levels. In addition, its reasonable pricing qualifies the V-Guard Zenora as the best water purifier under 10,000.
Best UV UF Water Purifiers
All the models listed earlier work best only when the TDS (total dissolved solids) in your water is above 300 ppm. If your water source is like municipal supply (has TDS below 300 ppm) and is free from harmful metals such as arsenic, lead, or fluoride, you can go for a UV UF water purifier instead.
UV UF models are easier to maintain and do not waste any water. They are ideal for apartments or homes with clean, low-TDS water.
Good UV UF options
- Pureit Wave UV
- Havells Aquas Lite UV UF
- Aquaguard Sure Delight NXT UV UF
- Kent Ultra UV UF
- Kent Max UV UF
- Livpure Glo Star UV UF
- V-Guard Rejive UV UF
- AO Smith Z1 (for hot water in UV UF)
- Aquaguard Marvel NXT (with stainless steel tank in UV UF)
Water Purifier Buying Guide

The water that is available in our taps is not exactly the best one to drink directly. This water contains all kinds of contaminants one can imagine. It explains why many people boil water before drinking it.
Boiling kills the germs, viruses, and bacteria from the water. At the same time, it kills the taste and flavour, as well but does not remove the salts from the water.
Therefore, one can resort to using water purifiers that can deliver high-quality drinking water that surprisingly, tastes good, as well.
Test the tap water
Water that smells and tastes good is not necessarily the healthiest to drink.
Tap water contains soluble and insoluble impurities. Despite the municipalities purifying groundwater, the water can pick up contaminants on its way to your home.
It has to pass through pipes and tanks. Pipelines and tanks can be corroded. They can also have a mineral build-up. Both of these factors affect the quality of water.
Secondly, groundwater can have impurities like arsenic, antimony, lead, and so on. It can also contain Dissolved Solids.
TDS can comprise organic and inorganic salts including calcium, magnesium, potassium, chlorides, bicarbonates, and sulfates. Thus, it is good to use a TDS meter to determine the extent of TDS.
How do you use the TDS meter?

A digital TDS meter should not cost more than a few hundred rupees. Invest in one, as it will prove useful to you for life. Here is how you use the TDS meter.
- Just Remove the protective cap of the TDS meter and turn the TDS meter on.
- Immerse the TDS meter in the glass of water up to the maximum immersion level marked on the device.
- Wait for about 10 seconds and allow the reading to stabilize.
- Press the HOLD option and remove the device to note down the TDS reading.
Now, you have the reading. What should you do now? This table will give you a good idea about what the reading conveys.
| TDS Level | Reasons for acceptability or Non-acceptance |
|---|---|
| Less than 50 | Water with such a low level of TDS does not contain any essential minerals. It will be tasteless. It is not an acceptable range. |
| 50 to 150 | WHO States that TDS is mainly a taste/palatability factor (not a safety test). Most people find lower TDS more pleasant |
| 150 to 200 | This level is acceptable. |
| 250 to 350 | Most of the Indian homes have tap water in this range. It is an acceptable range |
| 350 to 500 | BIS (IS 10500) States that TDS 500 ppm is Acceptable. |
| 500 to 900 | As this level is not acceptable, use an RO water purifier with a TDS controller/mineralizer. |
| 900 to 1200 | It is better to use an RO water purifier of good quality with a TDS controller. |
| 1200 to 2000 | It is a highly unacceptable range. You will need an excellent RO water purifier that can handle water with TDS levels up to 2000. |
| Above 2000 | Most of the RO water purifiers in the market cannot handle such a high level of TDS. |
Now, you know the TDS level as well as the water quality. Let us now find the difference between RO, UV, and UF Purifiers.
RO vs UV vs UF
| RO Water Purifier | UV Water Purifier | UF Water Purifier |
|---|---|---|
| Requires electricity to operate | Requires electricity to operate | No Electricity required |
| Kills and Removes all the Bacteria and Viruses from the Water. | Kills all Bacteria and Viruses but their Dead Bodies remain in the Water. | Kills and Removes all the Bacteria and Viruses from the Water. |
| Requires Electricity to Boost the Tap Water Pressure | UV Water Purifiers can work with Normal Tap Water Pressure. | UF Water Purifiers can work with Normal Tap Water Pressure. |
| Removes the Dissolved Salts | Cannot remove Dissolved Salts | Cannot remove Dissolved Salts |
| RO Purifiers has a Prefiltration system to work with Dirty Water. | Water should be clear for UV to work. | Works with Dirty Turbid Water. |
Frequently Asked Questions
In this era of customer service, all water purifier brands offer good after-sales services. However, it depends on various factors such as the availability of service centers in your city, accessibility to spare parts, and so on.
Most of the top water purifier brands offer regular AMC services. The rates depend on various factors. Usually, it is in the range of around Rs 4,000 per annum. This AMC includes the cost of replacement of the various filters like RO membrane, UV and UF filters, activated carbon filters, and sediment filters.
TDS Controller allows the mixing of tap water with RO-purified water to maintain the TDS levels in Drinking water.
RO Water purifier brands include an extra filter that ensures the addition of essential minerals to the water. This helps in maintaining the pH balance as well.
The biggest drawback of RO water purifiers is that it wastes water a lot. For every liter of pure water it produces, the machines waste 2 liters of water. The wastage of water depends on the quality of the input water. The higher the TDS of input water, the higher the wastage
ABS Plastic is a food-grade and non-toxic lightweight material. Steel is comparatively heavier and Durable than ABS plastic. Both are Good.
It is never advisable to buy a non-branded water purifier. Invest in a reputed brand that provides prompt service at your place.
Final Words
You have just gone through the Water purifier buying guide. This guide should help you make an easy decision about opting for the right water purifier for your home.
If you have any queries reading the selection of water purifiers, post them in the comments section below, and we will be glad to answer them.

6 Comments
Is blue shell water purifier good to buy
No idea about this one.. better to go for the brand that provides good service at your place.
Thank you Srinivasa for the detailed review.
Could you please share your personal favourite, M1 or atomberg.
For TDS Above 300 PPM, I will consider Native M1.. AMC Cost is fixed 5000 for 2 Years and service is good (but make sure if they provide service at your place, install UC App and try to book something and you will know..) Atomberg is also good and it is suitable for multiple water sources including low TDS water.
Hi chiatanya garu,
Thank you for your detailed explanation of water purification and models. We need your suggestion.
We are in bangalore and our water source is both muncipal and bore. In summer it will be more of bore water due to shortage of municipal water. Which model would be good?
Currently municipal water tds is showing 200.
In Banglore Atomberg Service is available, Atomberg Intellon model is suitable for both high and low TDS water.. Maintenance cost is also low compared to other brands. Don’t buy RO as your municipal water TDS is already good.