Berkey Big Berkey Review 2026 — Best Gravity Filter?

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By Alex Capitan · Updated May 2026 · 10 min read

Berkey Big Berkey Review 2026 — Best Gravity Filter?

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.

OUR VERDICT
Berkey Big Berkey
Countertop gravity · 2.25 gal · Black Berkey elements
4.5/5
Best gravity filter
Berkey Big Berkey gravity water filter stainless steel 2.25 gallon
PFAS removal
✓ Yes
Bacteria removal
✓ Yes
Capacity
2.25 gallons
Annual cost
~$50
Check price on Amazon ↗
✓ Pros
No electricity needed
No installation required
Removes PFAS, lead, bacteria
Lowest annual cost (~$50)
Works during power outages
Great for camping & travel
✗ Cons
Slow flow rate — gravity fed
Fluoride requires add-on filter
Not NSF certified (proprietary testing)
Large countertop footprint

Does Berkey remove PFAS?

Yes — Berkey’s Black elements are tested to remove PFAS compounds including PFOA and PFOS. However, unlike SpringWell or APEC, the Big Berkey is not NSF certified. 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 the APEC ROES-50 (NSF 58) instead.

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

Photo gallery

Berkey Big Berkey filter close up
Berkey Big Berkey black filter elements
Berkey Big Berkey stainless steel body

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 APEC ROES-50
✗High-volume households — slow gravity flow rate
Ready to buy?

The Big Berkey is available on Amazon. Check current price below.

Check price on Amazon ↗

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