Under Sink Vs Bench Top RO

Clean drinking water is something most families value, and more Australians are looking for ways to improve water quality at home. Reverse osmosis has become a popular choice thanks to its high level of filtration, long-term performance and the comfort of knowing you are drinking water that has gone through several purification stages.

If you are exploring RO for your home, two systems usually come up first. You can go for an under sink water purifier, or you can look at a bench top water filter system. Each one is effective, but the right choice depends on your kitchen, your household and how you want to use your system.

This guide walks you through the differences so you can make a confident decision.

What is a reverse osmosis system?

Reverse osmosis is a filtration process that pushes water through a fine membrane to remove impurities. The membrane blocks contaminants such as heavy metals, microplastics, chemicals and excess minerals, leaving you with cleaner, clearer water.

Most RO systems use several stages of filtration. These often include sediment filters, carbon filters, an RO membrane and post filters that help improve taste. The result is water that is fresh and is ideal for drinking, cooking and making tea or coffee.

Many families choose an RO because it provides a high standard of purification without adding chemicals.

Under sink reverse osmosis systems

An under sink RO unit is installed inside your kitchen cabinet. It connects to your cold water line and usually dispenses purified water through a small tap mounted on your sink or bench top. Once installed, it works quietly in the background and produces a steady supply of filtered water.

• Fit and space checklist

Before choosing an under sink water purifier, it helps to check your cabinet layout.

A few things to look at:

• • Cabinet width and depth
  • Space for a tank if the model uses one
  • Room to remove filters during replacement
  • Clearance for hoses and fittings

Many households choose the under sink RO because it stays hidden. It suits families who want purified water without using bench top space or moving parts around.

• Flow rate

Under sink systems are designed to give you a steady and reliable flow of purified water via a pressure tank which stores purified water. Your household water pressure plays a big role, in time taken to re-fill the pressure tank plus size of the tank chosen. A higher flow rate usually means faster recovery, while low pressure can slow the process.

Membrane size also affects output. Larger membranes can process more water at once, which helps maintain a smoother flow during busy times in the kitchen. Some systems include flow restrictors or booster pumps to support performance in homes with older plumbing or lower pressure.

• Filter life and ongoing costs

An under sink water purifier usually has multiple filters that need periodic replacement. Sediment and carbon filters are commonly changed every six to twelve months, while the RO membrane lasts longer. Replacement costs vary based on the system and the number of stages.

Keeping track of filter life helps maintain performance and taste. Pure Water Systems provides a reminder service to alert you when your system is due for cartridge replacement or preventative maintenance. 

• Noise and maintenance

Under sink units are quiet during operation. The only noise you might hear comes from the tank refilling or the flow restrictor during use. Maintenance is mainly filter changes and occasional cleaning. The setup is low effort once installed.

• Installation and warranty

If you plan to learn how to install a water filter under the sink, it is essential to understand the rules for your area first. Installation, servicing and maintenance guidelines vary across states and territories. Always check with your local water authority or your state plumbing regulations so you know what is permitted in your home.

Warranties usually cover the system housing, the tap and the main components. It is helpful to choose a provider that offers long-term support and reliable access to replacement filters. This ensures your system stays in good condition and continues to produce high-quality water year after year.

Bench top reverse osmosis systems

A bench top water filter system sits on your kitchen counter and produces purified water through its internal filtration stages. These systems connect directly to your tap, purifying water on demand and dispensing it straight into a bottle or container. This makes them ideal for renters, students or anyone who wants easy installation.

• Fit and space checklist

Bench top systems have compact footprints but still need enough space to sit securely.

Think about:

• • Available counter space or space available in the laundry for set up
  • Distance to the sink if the system needs drainage

If you have a smaller kitchen, or you move regularly, a bench top RO system can be more flexible.

• Flow rate

Flow rate in bench top systems depends on filtration stages and your home’s water pressure since there is no pressure tank, compared to full under sink setups. This does not affect drinking quality, but it can influence how long it takes to fill a jug or bottle.

Many bench top units also process water in smaller batches, which is normal for their size. The output is still suitable for everyday use, including drinking, making tea or coffee and preparing meals. If you use a lot of purified water at once, it can help to plan ahead and keep your tank topped up so you have enough water ready when you need it.

• Filter life and ongoing costs

Bench top filters also need regular replacement. Since the system may be smaller, filter lifespan can be slightly shorter compared to larger under sink systems. Costs depend on model and usage frequency. Regular maintenance keeps water tasting fresh.

• Noise and maintenance

Bench top systems may produce a soft hum during filtration, spending on the type. Noise levels are light and typically similar to a small appliance. Maintenance is simple. Most tasks involve wiping down surfaces and replacing filters on schedule.

• Installation and warranty

One of the biggest advantages of a bench top system is the easy setup. There is no plumbing work. You place the unit, connect any tubing if required and start using it. Warranties for bench top units cover the main housing and internal components. Always check what replacement parts are available.

How to choose the right system for your home

Choosing between an under sink and bench top RO system comes down to the way you use your kitchen, the space you have and how permanent you want the setup to be.

Choose an under sink system if:

• You want a hidden filtration setup
• You prefer using a dedicated tap
• You have enough cabinet space for the unit
• Your household drinks a lot of water each day
• You want stronger and more consistent flow rates

Choose a bench top system if:

• You are renting your home
• You prefer a setup that needs no plumbing work
• Your under sink area is too small for a full system
• You often move or need something you can take with you
• You want a portable solution that sits neatly on the counter

You should also think about your daily routine at home. If you fill bottles for work and school, cook often or prepare large meals, a system with higher output may suit you better. If you have a small kitchen or prefer something you can set up in minutes, a bench top unit can be a practical choice.

Budget is also something to consider. Under sink systems can cost more at the beginning, but they often support higher long term demand. Bench top units usually have a lower upfront cost and are simple to manage, especially for smaller households.

Explore reverse osmosis systems with Pure Water Systems

Both under sink and bench top RO systems provide excellent water quality. Your choice depends on your space, lifestyle and how permanent you want the setup to be. Once you understand the practical differences, it becomes much easier to choose a system that suits your home.

If you are ready to upgrade your drinking water, explore the range of under sink and bench top RO units available from Pure Water Systems. Review product features, compare filtration stages or reach out to our friendly team if you need help choosing the right system for your kitchen.