Distilled vs. RO vs. Spring vs. Alkaline Water: What's the Difference?

Not all water is created equal.

If you’re becoming more conscious of your water consumption, you’ve likely seen various labels on bottled water in stores. Then there are water filtration solutions, which add more terms into the mix.

This guide will help you better understand types of water so you can choose the best option for your preferences and use cases. Here is how to get the most bang for your buck when seeking high-quality water.

Water Type Matters: Here’s Why

Distilled vs. reverse osmosis (RO) vs. spring vs. alkaline water. Why does it matter that you choose the right one?

Because these water types differ in source, mineral content, and pH, they are not all intended for the same purpose. For example, if you want the best water for health and hydration purposes, distilled isn’t ideal long-term. Distilled water lacks beneficial minerals and can taste flat. In contrast, distilled or low-ppm RO water is best for many appliances or medical equipment because it prevents mineral buildup.

Comparing Distilled vs. RO vs. Spring vs. Alkaline Water

To help you choose the best water based on your goals and uses, here is how these four water types compare.

Distilled Water

You’ve probably seen jugs of distilled water at the grocery store. Choose this for specific use cases.

• What: Water that is boiled into steam and cooled back into liquid.

• Filtration: Removes almost all impurities, bacteria, and minerals.

• Minerals: None.

• Taste: Plain tasting because it lacks minerals.

• Best uses: Medical devices, steam-generating appliances, and delicate cleaning tasks.

Reverse Osmosis (RO) Water

For those seeking the purest filtered water at home, RO systems are often your best bet. These systems can remove up to 99% of contaminants.

• What: Water forced through a fine microscopic filter.

• Filtration: Removes most contaminants, including microplastics, chemicals, and dissolved minerals.

• Minerals: Very low, although some systems add minerals back (this is known as remineralization).

• Taste: Very clean, but some prefer the taste better when installing remineralization filters.

• Best uses: Everyday drinking water and general home cooking.

Spring Water

For those with bottom-load dispensers or top-load coolers, you can source 5-gallon jugs of spring water if you prefer them.

• What: Water collected directly from an underground natural source.

• Filtration: Minimal filtration to keep natural properties intact.

• Mineral content: High in natural minerals like calcium and magnesium.

• Taste: Fresh, crisp, and distinct depending on the source.

• Best uses: Hydration and drinking for people who prefer a natural mineral taste.

Alkaline Water

Many health trends mention alkaline water, but it hasn't been proven to be better for your health than regular plain water.

• What: Water with a higher pH level above 7 (less acidic).

• Filtration: Usually purified first; then, minerals are added.

• Mineral content: Added minerals like potassium and calcium.

• Taste: Smooth and sometimes slightly sweet or metallic.

• Best uses: Daily drinking, although it is important to be aware of non-proven health claims.

How Does Home Filtration Compare?

When looking at home filtration solutions, you’ll see a wide range of options based on water source, specific contaminants, and installation type. The versatility of these options means you can find a solution that best meets your expectations for space, budget, capacity, etc.

The main difference is that home filtration systems let you replicate or produce these water types right from your tap. If you’re seeking water for everyday drinking, cooking, etc., this option can help you save money long-term. You can access top-quality filtered water on demand, eliminating bottled water costs.

Here are some of your options:

• Reverse osmosis systems: Brio's undersink tankless reverse osmosis systems deliver certified, on-demand RO water filtration without the bulky storage tank. The Brio G20-U RO Undersink Filtration System and the Brio AQUUS Tankless RO Under Sink Filtration System are examples.

• Remineralization filters: Add minerals back into your RO water with no extra effort. Some prefer this step to achieve the best-tasting water possible without any worrisome contaminants. A kit replaces Brio’s Stage 4 Post Carbon filter with a Mineralization filter to provide mineral-rich water and increase pH level.

• Countertop dispensers: Limited space? Brio's countertop dispensers are designed for kitchens, offices, or rentals where a full standup cooler or undersink install isn't an option. Check out the compact Brio Q20 Reverse Osmosis Countertop Water Dispenseror the Brio Q60 4-Stage Reverse Osmosis Sparkling Countertop Water Dispenser for RO-purified sparkling and still water.

Brio Has What You Need

Sometimes you need specific water types. Whether it’s a steam iron or a humidifier, you can keep jugs on hand for those specific uses. For drinking and everyday use, home filtration systems deliver quality water at a fraction of the cost.

Brio can help you choose the right system. Explore our full collection of water filtration solutions today!