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Berkey VS Clearbrook: The Top Two Gravity Fed Water Filters Compared
If you’ve ever wondered whether you could trust your water without relying on a tap, you’re not alone. For off-grid homes, travelers, and emergency preppers, a Gravity Fed Water Filter is one of the most useful tools you can own.
And when it comes to the best, two names always rise to the top — Berkey and Clearbrook.
Both make high-quality systems that remove everything from bacteria to heavy metals, giving you water that’s as clean as it tastes fresh.
So, which is the better buy? Let’s break it down
Key Takeaways
- Both Berkey and Clearbrook remove over 99.9% of major contaminants.
- CB9 filters fit directly into Berkey systems.
- Berkey: premium build, consistent flow, trusted name.
- Clearbrook: faster flow, lower cost, same great results.
- Both are ideal for off-grid living, RVs, and emergency water prep.
Table of Contents
- Why So Many People Are Switching to Gravity Fed Water Filters
- Meet the Contenders: Berkey and Clearbrook
- Filter Showdown: Black Berkey BB9 vs Clearbrook CB9
- Built to Last: Comparing Materials and Quality
- Ease of Use: Set It and Forget It
- Filter Life and Replacement Costs
- How the Water Tastes
- Compatibility: Mix and Match Like a Pro
- The Price-to-Performance Verdict
- So, Which Gravity Fed Water Filter Wins?
- Frequently Asked Questions
Why So Many People Are Switching to Gravity Fed Water Filters
No power, no plumbing, no problem.
That’s the beauty of a gravity fed water filter. You just pour water into the top, and gravity does the rest.
The water passes through powerful carbon-based filters that trap harmful contaminants and leave only clean, safe water in the lower chamber.
Whether you’re living off-grid, camping, or preparing for an emergency, these systems deliver reliable water filtration without cords, pipes, or maintenance headaches.
Meet the Contenders: Berkey and Clearbrook
Berkey — The Trusted Name in Clean Water
For decades, Berkey has been the go-to brand for portable water filtration. Their sleek stainless-steel systems, from the compact Travel Berkey (1.5 gal) to the massive Crown Berkey (6 gal), have earned loyal fans across the world.
Each unit uses the powerful Black Berkey (BB9) Filters, which can last up to 6,000 gallons and remove more than 200 contaminants. Add optional fluoride filters, and you’re covered for everything from chlorine to arsenic.
They’re durable, reliable, and built for serious use whether you're in a cabin, an RV, or right at home.
Clearbrook — The Affordable Challenger
Clearbrook has quickly made a name for itself as the smart alternative to Berkey. Their systems are affordable, sturdy, and most importantly, fully compatible with Berkey filters and parts.
That means their CB9 and CB5 filters fit directly into Berkey units. You can swap them in anytime without adapters or adjustments.
Models like the Clearbrook Stainless Countertop Filter (1.5–3.25 gal) and 5-Gallon Portable Filter offer options for both everyday kitchens and off-grid setups.
If you love Berkey-level performance but want to save a few bucks, Clearbrook delivers big.
Filter Showdown: Black Berkey BB9 vs Clearbrook CB9
Both filters tackle the same job: removing harmful contaminants while keeping beneficial minerals intact. Let’s look at what each one does best.
What the Black Berkey (BB9) Filters Can Do
The Black Berkey Filters are famous for their powerful purification. They work through a complex carbon-based system that traps particles at a microscopic level.
- 99.9999% of bacteria
- 99.999% of viruses
- Chlorine and chloramine
- Heavy metals like lead, mercury, and chromium
- Pharmaceuticals and chemical residues
- Pesticides and herbicides
- Sediment, rust, and silt
- Microplastics
- Improves taste and odor
- Optional fluoride and arsenic removal with PF2 post-filters
What the Clearbrook CB9 Filters Bring to the Table
The Clearbrook CB9 Filters mirror the BB9’s performance but at a friendlier price. And yes, they fit perfectly in Berkey and other popular gravity filters.
- 99.9999% of bacteria
- 99.999% of viruses
- Chlorine and chloramine
- Heavy metals like lead, mercury, and copper
- Pharmaceuticals, pesticides, and herbicides
- Sediment, rust, and cloudiness
- Microplastics
- Improves taste and odor
- Optional fluoride and arsenic reduction with PF2 post-filters
Built to Last: Comparing Materials and Quality
Both brands use stainless steel for their main systems, which means you’re getting something that won’t rust or crack over time. They’re easy to clean, look great on a counter, and last for years.
If portability matters, both offer lightweight BPA-free plastic models, like the Berkey Light and the Clearbrook 5-Gallon Portable Filter, that are perfect for camping, RVs, or backup setups.
Ease of Use: Set It and Forget It
Both Berkey and Clearbrook keep things simple. Fill the top, let gravity do its work, and enjoy clean water from the bottom chamber.
Clearbrook filters prime a bit faster and tend to have a quicker flow rate, while Berkey’s filters start slower but stay consistent longer between cleanings. Maintenance is also easy. Just scrub the filters every couple of months and rinse the chambers regularly.
Filter Life and Replacement Costs
Here’s where things get interesting.
Both BB9 and CB9 filters last up to 6,000 gallons per pair. That's roughly 3–5 years for most households.
The difference? Price. Clearbrook’s replacement filters are typically cheaper, which makes long-term maintenance easier on your budget, especially for families or full-time off-grid use.
How the Water Tastes
Both systems produce incredibly clean, crisp water often described as “spring-fresh.” Berkey’s filters tend to have a slightly denser composition, giving a slower but steady flow, while Clearbrook’s filters push water through a little faster.
Taste-wise, it’s a tie. Both remove that unpleasant “city water” flavor and leave behind natural minerals your body needs.
Compatibility: Mix and Match Like a Pro
This is where Clearbrook really shines.
Its filters are 100% compatible with Berkey systems, meaning you can use them interchangeably.
The CB9 and CB5 filters fit perfectly in the Big Berkey, Royal Berkey, Imperial Berkey, and even the Crown Berkey. No adapters needed! You can also add Clearbrook PF2 Fluoride Filters for extra protection.
If you already own a Berkey, Clearbrook gives you flexibility and cost savings without sacrificing quality.
The Price-to-Performance Verdict
Berkey is the long-trusted premium brand with decades of proof behind it.
Clearbrook, on the other hand, gives you nearly identical filtration performance at a lower price.
Both deliver excellent value — Berkey for brand recognition and proven track record, and Clearbrook for affordability and smart compatibility.
If you’re just starting out, Berkey is a timeless choice. If you’re replacing filters or expanding your setup, Clearbrook might be your new favorite.
So, Which Gravity Fed Water Filter Wins?
Honestly? Both.
Berkey wins for heritage, stainless quality, and name recognition.
Clearbrook wins for compatibility, price, and accessibility.
They’re two sides of the same coin. Dependable, powerful, and built to give you safe water anywhere, anytime.
Either way, you’ll be investing in clean, worry-free hydration for years to come.
Have any questions or would like to place an order? We'd love to help! Chat with our friendly customer service team by calling 1-844-945-3625, chatting in on our website or email us at customersupport@wildoaktrail.com. We look forward to hearing from you!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a better filter than Berkey?
Clearbrook filters match Berkey’s purification power and are compatible at a lower cost.
What is the lifespan of a Berkey filter?
Up to 6,000 gallons per pair — roughly 3–5 years with care.
What do Berkey filters not remove?
They leave in healthy minerals like calcium and magnesium.
How long can water sit in Berkey?
Replace the water every 3–4 days and clean the chambers weekly.
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