Waterdrop reverse osmosis (RO) products are innovative and offer superior filtration. Both Waterdrop G3 and G2 models are tankless, loaded with features that save you money, and can cleanse your water of over 1000+ contaminants.
So what makes them different from one another? Some say the G3 creates better-tasting water. The most notable difference between the two is the G3 7-stage filtration versus the G2 5-stage filtration. But does an extra 2 steps makes all that much of a difference?
Below, we dig deep into both models. We’ll breakdown how each one works, how each one filters, and who they are best for, based on consumer reports. We’ve also provided step-by-step installation instructions to assist in getting your new system set up the right way. Let’s take a look.
Special Features of Waterdrop Filters
Both the Waterdrop G2 and G3 use multiple stages of filtration. Their method uses an advanced composite filter technology, that combines multiple filter materials in order to make one centralized filtration system. This means that you get multi-stage layers of filtration, and it prolongs the life of your filters and reduces the frequency of replacements.
The G3 has a dense 3-layer DOW® RO membrane for more efficient contaminant removal. It has a longer filtration life than the MRO filter that the G2 uses. But, the MRO filter does return beneficial mineral ions into the filtered water.
Here is a list of pore sizes.
- The CF Filter has a pore size of 0.8m
- The 3-layer DOW® RO membrane has a pore size of 0.0001m
- The CB Filter has a pore size of 0.5m
- The RO membrane also has a pore size of 0.0001m
For perspective, these pores are about the size of around one-millionth to one 8-millionth of a strand of hair. They will surely remove any contaminants, bacteria, or other impurities in your water.
Quick Comparison and Specifications
Waterdrop WD-G3-W
| Model number | WD-G3-W |
| Certification | NSF 58 & 372 |
| Materials |
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| Product dimensions | 18.1 x 5.7 x 17.8 inches |
| Item weight | 15.44 pounds |
| Flow rate | 0.27 gallon per minute (GPM), 400 gallons per day (GPD) |
| Wall plug | Yes |
| Included components |
|
<h2″ class=”has-text-align-center”>Waterdrop WD-G2
| Model number | WD-G2-B/WD-G2-W |
| Certification | Pending |
| Materials |
|
| Product dimensions | 17.3—5.9—13.9 inches |
| Item weight | 20.94 pounds |
| Flow rate | 0.27 gallon per minute (GPM), 400 gallons per day (GPD) |
| Wall plug | Yes |
| Included components |
|
Waterdrop G2 vs. G3 – Main Features and Benefits
Here are six common features of both the G3 and G2 Waterdrop reverse osmosis systems.
1. 400GPD
Both G2 and G3 can filter up to 400 gallons per day (GPD). That is more than a quarter gallon a minute (GPM) or an average of 12 seconds a cup. This is way faster than most competitors, as most RO filtrations systems can take up to two minutes to filter a single gallon.
2. Drain Ratio of 1:1
The drain ratio is the amount of water a RO filtration system wastes. Both of these models of water purifiers claim to have a 1:1 drain ratio. Typically, at least some water is wasted in the cleaning process, as all reverse osmosis water purifiers produce concentrated water to discharge impurities. However, Waterdrop’s design saves you 300% more water than average RO systems.
3. Easy Installation and Quick Filter Change
Installation typically takes 30 minutes or less, and you don’t need any special tools to set these systems up. Moreover, when it’s time to replace the filter, this only takes about 3 seconds! You just twist-and-pull the old filter, then replace it with a new one. We’ll talk about these steps in more detail a little further down.
4. Filter Life Monitoring
Although slightly different, both the G2 and the G3 models take the guesswork out of filter replacements with easy filter life monitoring.
G3’s Smart Designer Faucet Smart RO System Colors
- Blue – optimum filtration
- Yellow – replace soon
- Red – replace immediately
G2’s Smart Filter has color reminders as well
- Blue – optimum quality
- Purple – replace soon
- Red – replace now
5. Tankless Design
Both feature a no-tank design, which prevents bacteria growth and avoids water re-contamination. However, G3’s tankless build only saves 50% of your under-sink space, while the G2’s body saves 70% of available under-sink space.
6. Safety Features (Sound Reminders)
Both products use superior protection technology, including insulated materials and integrated waterways, so there’s no risk of leakage.
There’s a “booster pump overworked” warning that beeps for three minutes when the unit works continuously for 30 minutes. This also stops water filtering and turns the power off.
Additionally, it will beep five times if the booster pump frequently starts and stops within a 20-minute session. This results in both the filtering indicator light and power indicator lights turning off.
G2 vs. G3 – Differences
Here we list the 4 main differences between both units.
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G3 – Self-Maintenance with Automatic Flushing and Holiday Mode
The Automatic Flushing Mode maintains and extends the life of its filters. The filtration system triggers this mode after two hours of use, in order to clean and remove any clogs.
Additionally, the G3 features a Holiday Mode that automatically flushes the unit after 24 hours of non-usage.
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FCC & NSF Certified vs. Certifications Pending
The G3 is tested and certified under NSF/ANSI standard 58, which deals with the effective removal of various contaminants. Additionally, this product eliminates 94% of total dissolved solids (TDS), including lead.
The G3 and G2 have over 400 chemical lab tests showing the filtered water from both is free from chemicals including cadmium, bisphenol A, benzene, formaldehyde, and more. However, G2 is Federal Communications Commission (FCC) compliant but still awaits NSF certification.
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7-Stage Filtration vs. 5-Stage Filtration
G3 uses seven stages of filtration to produce clear and great-tasting potable water.
This includes:
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- 2-layers of PP cotton
- 2-layers of premium carbon block
- 3-layers of Dow® reverse osmosis membrane
Waterdrop engineered G2 5-stage filtration with the same layers as G3 but offers only one layer of a ‘Toray’ reverse osmosis membrane, instead of three layers of Dow.
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Additional G3 Features
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- A water shortage reminder
- A water leak detector
- A TDS display that shows the quality of your water in real-time
- Rubber anti-vibration pads for more stability and noise reduction
Waterdrop G3 RO Process
The G3 RO filtration system uses 3 composite filters for a 7-stage deep filtration.
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Stage 1
Sediment PP Membrane removes rust, sand, particulates, nematodes, and suspended substances.
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Stage 2
Premium Carbon block filter removes taste, chlorine, odor, limescale, fluoride, and lead.
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Stages 3-5
Three Layers of Dow® RO membrane removes 99.99% of bacteria, heavy metals (mercury, arsenic, cadmium), and TDS.
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Stages 6-7
Two layers of post-activate carbon block layering filter your tap water for safer, more palatable drinkable water. The activated carbon block granules are made from natural, Sri Lankan coconut shells, which improve the water flavor and infuse beneficial minerals back into the filtered water.
Waterdrop G2 RO Process
The G2 RO filtration system uses 2 composite filters for a 5-stage deep filtration:
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Stage 1
The first Sediment PP Membrane removes rust, sand, particulates, nematodes, and suspended substances.
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Stage 2
The activated carbon block composite filter removes residual chlorine, large particles, and colloids.
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Stage 3
Water passes through a second Sediment PP membrane.
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Stage 4
The RO membrane removes over 1,000 contaminants, heavy metals, organics, and bacteria, and improves the taste of water.
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Stage 5
Water passes through a second activated carbon block composite filter.
Installing a Waterdrop System
You don’t need to hire plumbing help to install Waterdrop filters like the G2 or G3, as both are relatively simple to install. The steps for installing both Waterdrop G2 and G3 are mostly the same, the G2 just has fewer parts and connections to deal with.
Here is a list of nine important steps to install your Waterdrop system.
#1. Gather Your Tools
If your kitchen countertop already has a hole provision, you will not need to drill one. Otherwise, you need to make one. Waterdrop provides a sticker template for reference if you need to drill your own.
- Do not use a hammer drill on granite, ceramic, or glass countertops. You will need a diamond core bit for granite countertops, or a carbide bit for stainless steel.
- Place the 1 ⅜ ” round sticker template where you want the hole to be.
- When drilling through stainless steel, first make an indent in the center of the circle to help guide the bit.
- Firmly apply enough pressure to break through the surface without damaging the counter by slowly adding speed. Do not start full speed.
- Once through, slightly swirl the drill to maintain an even circle.
#2. The Materials
For G3
For G2
#3. Installing Water Feed Adaptor
- Shut off the water supply.
- Turn on the kitchen faucet to release water pressure and drain whatever water remains.
- Disconnect the cold water pipe from the water supply valve.
- Connect the feed adapter to your cold water supply pipe.
#4. Install the RO Faucet
- Slide the RO faucet stand and power cord into the hole on your countertop.
- Install the mounting washer and nut.
- Insert the quick-connect fitting.
- Connect the ¼” white tubing.
#5. Installing Drain Saddle
- Drill a ¼” hole into the drain pipe.
- Get the front plate. Insert the wastewater tubing through the plate and into the drainpipe hole. Fix the backplate accordingly. You will want to make sure to tighten your screws properly.
#6. Place Your Unit Under the Sink and Connect Tubings
- Remove plugs from the water ports. Remember to press and hold the lock sleeve before pulling the plugs out.
- Insert each type of tubings accordingly. Then, put the lock clips in place.
#7. Inserting Power Cords
- Insert the faucet power cord and connect the power adapter.
#8. Installing Filters
- Remove shrink wraps and protective caps.
- Insert the filters and align arrows with the empty circles.
- Rotate filters clockwise till you hear a click sound.
#9. Power the Unit
- Turn on the water supply valve and feed water valve. Check for leaks.
- Turn the unit on.
- It will do an automatic flush for some minutes. It is important to keep the faucet off at this time.
- If you’ve installed a G3: After the 5-minute automatic flush finishes, turn on the faucet and run the water for 30 minutes. When the TDS reading shows up, turn the faucet off.
- If you’ve installed a G2: After the 10-minute automatic flush finishes, your unit is now ready to produce its first cup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Waterdrop Filtration Systems Use Power?
Yes. Waterdrop RO systems have a pump that is powered by electricity. This is what maintains a fast water flow rate.
Does the Waterdrop Unit Make a lot of Noise?
The unit makes less than 65 dB of sound during operation.
What If My Waterdrop Filter Starts Making Loud Noises?
Your RO filter should not be making loud sounds. If it does, there might be a problem.
Reasons it may be making loud sounds:
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The surface is not flat or level. Place the unit on a smooth and level surface to avoid shaking and possibly damaging the unit.
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The unit is leaning against a wall or cabinet. The unit may vibrate during operation, so place it somewhere else where it doesn’t come into contact with other objects.
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Unstable water pressure can cause your filtration system to make loud noises. Check water pressure levels. Operate the unit under conditions of 14.5psi to 87 psi.
How Often Will I Need to Replace the Filters?
G3 Replacement Schedule
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The CF filter is good for 6 months.
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The CB filter is good for 1 year.
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The RO filter is good for 2 years.
Hard water conditions may change these timeframes. Refer to Waterdrop G3 Reverse Osmosis System’s smart faucet and filter life indicators to remind you when to replace the filters.
You can buy these G3 filters on Amazon.
G3 3-Piece Filter Combo
G2 Replacement Schedule
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The CF filter is good for 1 year.
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The MRO filter is good for 2 years.
Hard water conditions may change these timeframes. Refer to Waterdrop G2 Reverse Osmosis System’s filter life indicators to remind you when to exactly replace the filters.
You can buy these G2 replacements on Amazon.
Do Waterdrop G2 and G3 Run On 110V or 220 Volts?
Both models can run on a power supply of 110 to 240 voltage. However, you may need a power adapter to suit your local power sockets. G2 and G3 both use 2-prong electrical plugs.
Can You Lay the Units Sideways?
Waterdrop RO machines are designed for upright placement. Laying it flat may affect the performance and cause loud noises.
Are the Waterdrop System Faucets Threaded?
No.
How Do You Store Spare Filters?
Keep your spare replacement filters in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated place. Keep them away from direct sunlight.
Wrap Up
Which of these two Waterdrop Reverse Osmosis models should you choose? They both offer incredible value and water. But, there are two things to consider: space and price. If you are on a budget and have a smaller under-sink setup, the G2 is an obvious choice.
However, if those variables aren’t applicable for your situation, although the difference isn’t substantial, it all boils down to taste. More filtration never hurts and if you can afford it, we say go for the G3.