Berkey Big Berkey Review 2026
The Big Berkey is one of the most popular gravity-fed filters. No electricity, no installation - but does it actually remove PFAS? Here's what the lab data shows.
Best gravity filter - Countertop gravity, 2.25 gal, Black Berkey elements.
Get it if You want filtered water with no plumbing and no electricity, including during outages.
Skip it if You want a certified system: this one has no NSF certification and needs counter space.
- Zero installation - gravity fed
- Removes bacteria & viruses
- 2.25 gal capacity - high volume
- No electricity needed
- No NSF certification
- Large countertop footprint
- Slow gravity filtration
- High upfront cost (Mid tier)
Does Berkey remove PFAS?
Yes - Berkey's Black elements are tested to remove PFAS compounds including PFOA and PFOS. However, unlike the APEC ROES-50 or Aquasana systems, the Big Berkey has no NSF/ANSI certification. Berkey uses independent third-party lab testing instead.
This doesn't mean it doesn't work - the lab results are credible. But if you specifically need NSF certification for compliance or peace of mind, consider a system listed for the contaminant you care about, such as the Aquasana Claryum (NSF 53 for lead and PFOA/PFOS).
| Contaminant | Removed | Testing source |
|---|---|---|
| PFAS (PFOA, PFOS) | Yes | Independent lab |
| Lead | Yes | Independent lab |
| Bacteria & viruses | Yes | Independent lab |
| Chlorine | Yes | Independent lab |
| Fluoride | Add-on | PF-2 add-on filter needed |
Who should buy the Big Berkey
- Renters who can't install under-sink filters
- People who want backup filtration for emergencies
- Camping and off-grid use
- People who specifically need NSF certification - use a listed system such as the Aquasana Claryum
- High-volume households - slow gravity flow rate