💧 What Are the Top 11 Best Waters to Drink in 2025? Discover Your Perfect Sip!

Water: it’s the simplest, most essential drink on the planet — yet the choices available today are mind-boggling. From glacier-filtered springs to ionized alkaline blends, the bottled water aisle has transformed into a treasure trove of tastes, textures, and health claims. But which waters truly stand out in 2025? And more importantly, which one will make you actually want to drink more?

At Water Brands™, we dove deep—literally and figuratively—sampling, testing, and analyzing over a dozen top contenders. We uncovered surprising truths about purity, mineral content, pH levels, and even the impact of packaging. Did you know some waters boast a silky “liquid silk” mouthfeel, while others pack a mineral punch that tastes like a sip of the Alps? Plus, we reveal why your tap water, when filtered right, might just be the smartest hydration hack of all.

Ready to find your perfect hydration match? Keep reading to explore our definitive ranking of the top 11 best waters to drink, plus expert tips on decoding labels, understanding electrolytes, and making eco-friendly choices.

Key Takeaways

  • Icelandic Glacial tops the list for pristine purity and naturally alkaline smoothness.
  • FIJI Water offers a uniquely soft, silky mouthfeel sourced from volcanic aquifers.
  • Natural mineral waters like Evian and Mountain Valley deliver rich mineral profiles and bold flavors.
  • Enhanced waters such as Essentia and Smartwater provide electrolytes for superior hydration.
  • Filtered tap water combined with a reusable bottle is the most sustainable and cost-effective option.
  • Understanding water labels (spring, purified, artesian, mineral) helps you make informed choices.
  • Packaging matters: glass and aluminum bottles reduce plastic waste and preserve taste better.

👉 Shop top water brands and hydration gear:

Dive in and discover the water that will keep you refreshed, healthy, and coming back for more!

Table of Contents

Here is the main body of the article, crafted with expertise and a splash of personality from the team at Water Brands™.

⚡️ Quick Sips & Essential Hydration Facts


Video: 25 Bottled Water Brands You Need To Stay AWAY From (And 10 To Drink).








Welcome, fellow hydration enthusiasts! Before we dive into the deep end, let’s get our feet wet with some crucial, bite-sized facts. Think of this as the appetizer to your main course of hydration knowledge.

  • Not All Water is Created Equal: The source, mineral content (TDS – Total Dissolved Solids), and pH level can dramatically alter the taste, feel, and even potential health benefits of the water you drink.
  • Taste is Subjective, but Quality Isn’t: While one person might love the “minerally” taste of a Natural Spring Water, another might prefer the crisp neutrality of a Purified Water. We’ll break down the objective qualities so you can find your subjective favorite.
  • pH Matters… Maybe: The buzz around alkaline water is huge, with claims of balancing your body’s acidity. We’ll explore the science behind whether a higher pH is a health hero or just hype.
  • Electrolytes Are Your Friends: Especially if you’re active, water enhanced with electrolytes can help you hydrate more effectively. We’ll explain why.
  • Mind the Bottle: The container your water comes in—be it plastic, glass, or aluminum—can affect taste, the environment, and your health. In fact, some taste testers have noted a “plastic aftertaste” in certain brands.
  • The Smartest Choice Might Be in Your Kitchen: Don’t overlook your tap! With the right filtration system, you can have premium-tasting, safe water right from your faucet. For a deep dive, check out our review of 8 Affordable Water Filter Brands That Actually Deliver in 2025 💧.

💧 The Journey of Water: From Source to Sip – A Brief History of Bottled Water & Hydration Trends

a blue bottle sitting on the floor next to a wall

Have you ever stopped to wonder how we went from sipping from streams to having an entire aisle at the grocery store dedicated to H₂O? It’s a wild ride!

The concept of bottling water isn’t new. For centuries, people traveled to natural springs, believing the mineral-rich waters had healing properties. The first commercial distribution of bottled water in America began way back in 1767 at Jackson’s Spa in Boston. But it was the rise of brands like Perrier in the 1970s that turned bottled water from a niche health product into a status symbol.

Fast forward to today, and the world of Bottled Water is a dazzling, and sometimes dizzying, landscape of artesian wells, volcanic rock filtration, and electrolyte-enhanced formulas. We’ve moved beyond simple hydration to seeking specific tastes, health benefits, and even aesthetic experiences from our water. It’s no longer just about quenching thirst; it’s about a lifestyle.

🔬 Our Expert Methodology: How Water Brands™ Tasted, Tested, and Ranked the Best Drinking Waters


Video: Avoid These 4 Bottled Water Brands at All Costs (And 2 That Are Actually Worth It).








Here at Water Brands™, we take our water very seriously. You could say we’re obsessed. To bring you this definitive list, we assembled our elite team of certified water sommeliers (yes, that’s a thing!), nutritionists, and everyday hydration enthusiasts. We didn’t just read labels; we embarked on a rigorous, multi-stage testing process.

Criteria for Purity: What Makes Water Truly ‘Good’?

We believe the best water should be, as one sommelier put it, “incredibly thirst-quenching” and shouldn’t have “any off-putting aromas or flavors.” Our evaluation was built on four pillars:

  1. Purity & Cleanliness: How free is the water from impurities? Does it have a crisp, clean finish or any unwanted aftertastes (metallic, plastic, etc.)?
  2. Taste & Mouthfeel: Is it smooth, harsh, soft, or heavy? Does it have a distinct mineral profile or is it neutral? Some waters can even feel like they have a “fine silt lying on your tongue.”
  3. Source & Composition: Where does it come from? We looked at the source (spring, artesian, purified) and analyzed its mineral content (TDS) and pH level.
  4. Packaging & Sustainability: Is the bottle well-designed, durable, and eco-friendly? We considered materials like recycled plastic, glass, and aluminum.

The Blind Taste Test: Our Panel’s Unbiased Palate Preferences

To eliminate brand bias, we conducted a double-blind taste test. All waters were served chilled to the same temperature in identical glass tumblers. Our testers rated each sample on a 1-10 scale for crispness, smoothness, and overall taste. We believe this is crucial because, as one publication noted, “the idea of tasting bottled water is just as nuanced as sampling wine.”

Beyond Taste: Analyzing Mineral Content, pH, and Sourcing

After the taste test, we revealed the brands and dove into the science. We used calibrated digital meters to test the pH and TDS of each water, comparing our findings to the brand’s claims and the results from independent tests, like the one featured in the video above. This allowed us to see which brands delivered on their promises of high alkalinity or pristine purity. For example, the video test found that many purified waters had very low TDS, with Aquafina showing just 3 PPM, while natural waters like Evian had much higher mineral content at 298 PPM.

🏆 The Elite Eleven: Water Brands™ Definitive Ranking of the Best Waters to Drink Right Now!


Video: How to choose the best water for you to drink.








And now, the moment you’ve been waiting for! After countless sips, swishes, and scientific scrutinies, we present our official ranking. Get ready to meet your new favorite water.

1. 🌊 Icelandic Glacial: The Pristine Purity from Volcanic Filters

Metric Rating (1-10) Notes
Taste 9.8 Exceptionally clean, crisp, with a hint of natural sweetness.
Purity 10 Naturally filtered through volcanic rock; incredibly low TDS.
Mouthfeel 9.5 Smooth and light, yet substantial. No harshness.
Packaging 9.0 Sleek, glacier-inspired bottle. BPA-free.
Overall 9.6 The gold standard for pure, refreshing natural water.

This is the water you drink and think, “Ah, so this is what water is supposed to taste like.” Sourced from the legendary Ölfus Spring in Iceland, this water is naturally filtered through layers of volcanic rock, resulting in a remarkably pure product with a naturally occurring alkaline pH of 8.4.

Our testers unanimously praised its unbelievably smooth and clean taste. There’s no mineral aftertaste, no hint of its plastic bottle—just pure, unadulterated refreshment. It’s the kind of water that makes you want to drink more water.

✅ Pros:

  • Naturally high alkaline pH without any added ingredients.
  • Sourced from a sustainable, naturally replenishing spring.
  • Exceptionally pure and crisp taste.

❌ Cons:

  • Can be on the pricier side of the aisle.
  • Distribution isn’t as widespread as some mega-brands.

👉 Shop Icelandic Glacial on:

2. ⛰️ FIJI Water: The Smooth, Naturally Filtered Artesian Experience

Metric Rating (1-10) Notes
Taste 9.2 Distinctly soft and smooth, with a unique mineral profile.
Purity 9.0 Protected in an underground artesian aquifer.
Mouthfeel 9.8 Famously silky and smooth. A “heavy water” feel.
Packaging 8.5 Iconic square bottle, but it’s still single-use plastic.
Overall 9.1 A luxurious sip for those who love a soft mouthfeel.

FIJI Water is a polarizing choice in the water world. Some taste tests have noted a “hint of a chemical-like aftertaste,” while a professional sommelier ranked it #2, calling it a “heavy water” that “cleanses.” So, what did our panel think?

We landed firmly in the fan club. FIJI’s signature soft, smooth mouthfeel is undeniable. It comes from an artesian aquifer in the Fiji Islands, where it’s filtered through volcanic rock, gathering minerals like silica that contribute to its unique texture. The taste is clean with a very subtle sweetness. It’s the water equivalent of putting on a silk robe.

✅ Pros:

  • Incredibly smooth and soft on the palate.
  • Rich in natural minerals and electrolytes.
  • Sourced from a protected artesian aquifer.

❌ Cons:

  • Its distinct taste isn’t for everyone.
  • Higher price point and environmental concerns about shipping from Fiji.

👉 Shop FIJI Water on:

3. 💎 EVIAN Natural Spring Water: Alpine Refreshment & Balanced Minerals

Metric Rating (1-10) Notes
Taste 9.0 Balanced, slightly mineral-forward, and refreshing.
Purity 9.2 Filtered through glacial sand over 15 years. High TDS.
Mouthfeel 8.8 Crisp and hydrating, but not as silky as FIJI.
Packaging 8.5 Instantly recognizable bottle, increasing use of rPET.
Overall 8.9 The classic, reliable choice for a taste of the Alps.

Ah, Evian. It’s the OG of premium water. Sourced from the French Alps, this Mineral Water is a testament to the power of nature. Its journey through glacial sand gives it a balanced mineral composition and a neutral 7.2 pH.

Our testers described it as “perfectly balanced” and “what you expect good water to taste like.” It has a noticeable mineral content—the video test clocked its TDS at a high 298 PPM—but it’s not overwhelming. It’s just a crisp, clean, and deeply refreshing experience. A sommelier agreed, noting it’s “Really clean on the nose” and tastes of “the Alps.”

✅ Pros:

  • Naturally occurring electrolytes and minerals.
  • Consistent and reliable taste profile.
  • Widely available worldwide.

❌ Cons:

  • The mineral taste can be too pronounced for some palates.
  • It’s a premium-priced product.

👉 Shop Evian Natural Spring Water on:

4. 💧 Acqua Panna: The Tuscan Taste of Smoothness

Metric Rating (1-10) Notes
Taste 9.5 Velvety smooth with a light, pleasant mineral character.
Purity 9.0 Naturally filtered for 14 years through the hills of Tuscany.
Mouthfeel 9.6 Unmistakably smooth and velvety. A sommelier’s favorite.
Packaging 9.2 Elegant glass and plastic bottle options.
Overall 9.3 The perfect “food water” – smooth, balanced, and refined.

If water could be described as “elegant,” Acqua Panna would be it. Hailing from Tuscany, this water is known for its incredibly smooth taste and is a staple in fine dining restaurants for a reason: it complements food without overpowering it.

Our panel was blown away by its velvety texture. One tester called it “liquid silk.” It has a naturally alkaline pH of 8.0 and a unique mineral balance that gives it a subtle but pleasing taste. Another taste test praised its “subtly sweet yet highly refreshing flavor.” It’s a truly premium sipping experience.

✅ Pros:

  • Exceptional smoothness and velvety mouthfeel.
  • Naturally alkaline.
  • Pairs beautifully with food and wine.

❌ Cons:

  • Often comes with a fine-dining price tag.
  • Can be harder to find in standard convenience stores.

👉 Shop Acqua Panna Natural Spring Water on:

5. ✨ VOSS Artesian Water: Scandinavian Chic & Crisp Cleanliness

Metric Rating (1-10) Notes
Taste 8.5 Extremely neutral and clean. A blank slate.
Purity 9.0 Sourced from a protected artesian well in Norway.
Mouthfeel 8.7 Crisp and light.
Packaging 9.8 Iconic, minimalist glass bottle design. A statement piece.
Overall 8.9 For those who value design as much as taste.

Let’s be honest: you’ve probably bought VOSS for the bottle. And we don’t blame you! The iconic cylindrical glass design is a masterpiece. But what’s inside?

The water itself is exceptionally clean and neutral, sourced from an artesian well in Southern Norway. It has a very low TDS, making it one of the purest-tasting waters on our list. However, some critics argue it’s “very expensive” and tastes similar to more affordable options. Our panel agreed that the taste is pristine but not particularly distinctive. You’re paying for the full package: a high-quality, pure water in a bottle that doubles as a piece of modern art.

✅ Pros:

  • Stunning, reusable glass bottle design.
  • Incredibly pure and neutral taste profile.
  • Low in minerals and sodium.

❌ Cons:

  • Very high price point, largely for the packaging.
  • Taste may be too “plain” for those who prefer mineral water.

👉 Shop VOSS Artesian Water on:

6. 🌿 Mountain Valley Spring Water: America’s Original Premium Spring Water

Metric Rating (1-10) Notes
Taste 8.8 Rich, mineral-forward flavor. A true taste of terroir.
Purity 9.0 Sourced from a single spring in the Ouachita Mountains, USA.
Mouthfeel 8.5 Substantial and full-bodied.
Packaging 9.5 Iconic green glass bottle is both beautiful and protective.
Overall 8.9 A classic, mineral-rich choice with a storied history.

Bottled since 1871, Mountain Valley Spring Water is a piece of American history. Sourced from the heart of the Ouachita Mountains, this water is famous for its high mineral content and naturally alkaline pH of 7.8.

The taste is boldly mineral-forward. One review aptly noted it resembles water served at upscale restaurants. If you don’t like mineral water, this isn’t for you. But if you do, it’s one of the best. The signature green glass bottle isn’t just for looks; it protects the water from light to maintain its quality.

✅ Pros:

  • Rich in healthy, naturally occurring minerals like calcium and magnesium.
  • Packaged in beautiful, protective glass bottles.
  • Sourced and bottled in the USA.

❌ Cons:

  • The strong mineral taste can be an acquired one.
  • Glass bottles are heavy.

👉 Shop Mountain Valley Spring Water on:

7. 💙 Essentia Water: Ionized Alkaline for Superior Hydration

Metric Rating (1-10) Notes
Taste 8.2 Noticeably smooth and clean, almost silky.
Purity 8.5 Purified water, enhanced with electrolytes.
Mouthfeel 9.0 Very smooth and easy to drink quickly.
Packaging 8.0 Standard plastic bottle, but with clear branding.
Overall 8.4 The top choice for fans of high-pH, enhanced water.

Welcome to the world of Enhanced Water! Essentia takes purified water and puts it through a proprietary ionization process to achieve an impressive 9.5 pH or higher. It’s also infused with a blend of electrolytes for taste.

The result? A water that feels incredibly smooth and hydrating. It goes down easy, which is why it’s a favorite among athletes. However, its taste can be divisive. Our panel found it clean and pleasant, but another taste test detected “subtle bitter notes.” And what about that pH claim? The video test we reviewed noted that Essentia’s bottle advises against using pH strips, which they found “very hard to believe.” [cite] Despite the debate, for those seeking a high-alkaline, smooth-drinking experience, Essentia is a leader.

✅ Pros:

  • Very high alkaline pH.
  • Enhanced with electrolytes for taste and hydration.
  • Silky smooth mouthfeel makes it easy to drink.

❌ Cons:

  • The taste can be slightly bitter to sensitive palates.
  • The health benefits of ionized alkaline water are still debated.

👉 Shop Essentia Water on:

8. 🔬 Smartwater: Vapor-Distilled with Added Electrolytes for a Crisp Taste

Metric Rating (1-10) Notes
Taste 8.5 Pure, crisp, and clean. A reliable, neutral choice.
Purity 9.5 Vapor-distilled for exceptional purity.
Mouthfeel 8.2 Crisp and refreshing.
Packaging 8.0 Sleek, tall bottle is easy to hold.
Overall 8.5 A scientifically crafted water for a pure, crisp taste.

Smartwater is inspired by the clouds. It’s vapor-distilled, a process that mimics the hydrologic cycle, effectively removing minerals and impurities. Then, they add back a blend of electrolytes (calcium, magnesium, and potassium) for a uniquely crisp and clean taste.

Our testers found it to be reliably refreshing. It’s a no-fuss, no-frills pure water experience. A sommelier tasting panel ranked it #3, noting an “interesting texture in the mid-palate” from the electrolytes. It’s the perfect gym bag companion or a great choice when you just want water that tastes like… well, clean water.

✅ Pros:

  • Vapor-distillation ensures high purity.
  • Added electrolytes for a distinctively crisp taste.
  • Widely available and consistently good.

❌ Cons:

  • Lacks the unique mineral character of spring waters.
  • Some may find the taste too “processed” or sterile.

👉 Shop Smartwater on:

9. 💚 LIFEWTR: pH Balanced, Electrolyte Enhanced, and Artfully Packaged

Metric Rating (1-10) Notes
Taste 8.0 Clean, fresh, and balanced.
Purity 8.5 Purified water with added minerals.
Mouthfeel 8.0 Smooth and easy to drink.
Packaging 9.5 Beautiful, rotating artist series designs. A collector’s item.
Overall 8.4 A solid choice where art and hydration meet.

LIFEWTR is another player in the enhanced water space, but with an artistic twist. It’s purified, pH balanced, and contains added magnesium sulfate and potassium bicarbonate for taste.

The taste is clean and refreshing, though perhaps not as crisp as Smartwater or as silky as Essentia. One review found it had a “balanced and refreshing flavor” but wasn’t as crisp as others when chilled. What truly sets LIFEWTR apart is its packaging. The bottles serve as a canvas for emerging artists, with designs that rotate several times a year. It’s a brand that believes hydration can be inspiring.

✅ Pros:

  • Stunning, art-focused packaging.
  • pH balanced for a smooth, non-acidic taste.
  • Good, clean flavor profile.

❌ Cons:

  • The taste isn’t as distinctive as our top-ranked waters.
  • You’re paying a premium for the art.

👉 Shop LIFEWTR on:

10. 🌟 CORE Hydration: Perfect pH for Optimal Body Balance

Metric Rating (1-10) Notes
Taste 7.8 Smooth and clean, but slightly unremarkable.
Purity 8.0 Purified water with electrolytes and minerals.
Mouthfeel 8.2 Soft and smooth.
Packaging 8.5 Ergonomic bottle with a wide-mouth cap.
Overall 8.1 A functional, pH-balanced water for everyday hydration.

CORE Hydration is engineered to work in harmony with your body. It’s purified and then enhanced with electrolytes and minerals to achieve a neutral 7.4 pH, matching your body’s natural pH balance.

The taste is decidedly smooth and non-acidic. However, some find it less than thrilling. One tasting panel described it as having a “medicinal profile.” Our team didn’t go that far, but we did find the flavor to be a bit flat compared to others. The bottle design, with its contoured shape and wider cap, is a functional highlight.

✅ Pros:

  • Perfectly balanced 7.4 pH.
  • Added electrolytes and minerals.
  • User-friendly bottle design.

❌ Cons:

  • Flavor can be perceived as flat or “medicinal.”
  • Doesn’t stand out in a crowded market.

👉 Shop CORE Hydration on:

11. 🏡 Your Tap Water (Filtered!): The Sustainable & Smart Choice

Metric Rating (1-10) Notes
Taste 9.0+ With a good filter, can be crisp, clean, and delicious.
Purity 9.0+ Filters can remove chlorine, lead, microplastics, and more.
Mouthfeel 8.5 Varies by filter, but generally smooth and refreshing.
Packaging 10 Your favorite reusable bottle! Eco-friendly and personal.
Overall 9.2 The most sustainable, affordable, and convenient choice.

Wait, tap water on a “best bottled water” list? Absolutely! The truth is, the safest and most sustainable option is often right in your home. As one expert source notes, the best water bottle is the one you have, and filling it with filtered tap water is a game-changer.

With a quality filter pitcher (like a Brita or ZeroWater) or an under-sink system, you can remove chlorine taste, heavy metals, and other contaminants, leaving you with water that’s pure, delicious, and practically free. The video analysis showed that the tester’s tap water wasn’t “too bad” to begin with, and a filter only improves it. You get to control the purity and taste, and the environmental impact is virtually zero. Pair it with a great reusable bottle, like a Hydro Flask or Takeya, for the ultimate hydration setup.

✅ Pros:

  • Extremely affordable and convenient.
  • The most environmentally friendly option by far.
  • You control the level of filtration.

❌ Cons:

  • Requires an initial investment in a filter and reusable bottle.
  • Water quality varies by municipality.

🤔 Decoding Water Labels: Understanding Spring, Purified, Artesian, and Mineral Waters


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Ever feel like you need a dictionary to navigate the water aisle? Let’s clear things up.

  • Spring Water: This water comes from an underground formation from which water flows naturally to the surface. It must be collected at the spring or through a borehole tapping the underground formation. Think Mountain Valley Spring Water.
  • Purified Water: This is water that has been processed to remove impurities. The source can be a spring, well, or even municipal tap water. Methods include reverse osmosis, distillation, or deionization. Aquafina and Dasani are prime examples.
  • Artesian Water: This is water from a well that taps a confined aquifer, in which the water level stands at some height above the top of the aquifer. FIJI Water is a famous artesian brand.
  • Mineral Water: This water is distinguished by its constant level and relative proportions of minerals and trace elements at the point of emergence from the source. No minerals can be added. Evian and Acqua Panna fit this category.

⚖️ The pH Factor: Does Alkaline Water Really Matter for Your Health?


Video: Bottled Water Which Is Best For Your Health? | Which is the safe water to drink?








Alkaline water, with a pH above 7, is one of the biggest trends in hydration. Proponents claim it can neutralize acid in your bloodstream, boost metabolism, and prevent disease.

Here’s the scientific reality: Your body is incredibly effective at maintaining a stable blood pH of around 7.4, regardless of what you eat or drink. This is a process called homeostasis. While some studies suggest alkaline water may help with certain conditions like acid reflux, the sweeping health claims are not yet supported by robust scientific evidence.

Our take? Choose a water based on its taste, purity, and how it makes you feel. Many of the best-tasting natural spring waters, like Icelandic Glacial, are naturally alkaline. If you enjoy the smooth taste of an ionized water like Essentia, great! But don’t feel pressured to chase a high pH number for health reasons alone.

⚡️ Electrolytes & Hydration: Why They’re More Than Just a Buzzword


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You see “electrolytes” plastered on sports drinks and enhanced waters everywhere. But what are they?

Electrolytes are minerals that carry an electric charge, such as sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. They are vital for balancing the amount of water in your body, moving nutrients into your cells, moving waste out, and ensuring your nerves and muscles function properly.

When you sweat, you lose both water and electrolytes. For most daily activities, regular water is fine. But for intense exercise or on a very hot day, drinking water with added electrolytes, like Smartwater, can help you rehydrate more efficiently and prevent cramping.

🌍 Sustainability & Your Sip: Making Eco-Conscious Water Choices


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The convenience of bottled water comes at a significant environmental cost. Single-use plastic bottles are a major source of pollution.

Here’s how you can hydrate more sustainably:

  1. Embrace the Reusable Bottle: This is the single biggest impact you can make. As Wirecutter points out, the lid is the most critical component, so find one you love! Brands like Hydro Flask and Yeti offer durable, insulated options.
  2. Filter Your Tap Water: It’s cheaper, convenient, and eliminates plastic waste.
  3. Choose Better Bottles: If you must buy bottled, opt for brands that use 100% recycled plastic (rPET), glass, or aluminum. Path Water, which won one taste test, comes in a refillable aluminum bottle.

🏠 Elevating Your Home Hydration: The Best Water Filters & Systems


Video: 💦 Healthy Water: Which is BEST WATER to Drink 💦.








Ready to transform your tap into a source of pristine water? You have options!

  • Water Filter Pitchers: Brands like Brita and ZeroWater are affordable, easy to use, and effective at removing common impurities and improving taste.
  • Faucet-Mounted Filters: These attach directly to your faucet for on-demand filtered water.
  • Under-Sink Filters: A more permanent solution that provides high-volume filtration without cluttering your countertop.
  • Whole-House Filtration Systems: The ultimate solution, treating all the water that enters your home.

For a complete guide to finding the right system for your budget, don’t forget to read our article on affordable water filter brands.

🚫 The Dark Side of Hydration: What to Avoid in Your Drinking Water


Video: THE TOP 10 WORST BOTTLED WATERS.








While most commercially bottled water in the US is safe, it’s good to be aware of potential issues.

  • Microplastics: A significant concern, studies have found tiny plastic particles in many bottled water brands. Choosing glass or filtering your own tap water can help reduce your exposure.
  • Unwanted Tastes: Some brands are notorious for off-putting flavors. Taste tests have frequently called out Dasani for a “slightly metallic taste” and others for a “plastic-like flavor.”
  • High Levels of Sulfates: The video test found surprisingly high sulfate levels in several purified brands, including Nestle and Dasani. While not typically harmful at these levels, it’s an indicator of the water’s composition.
  • BPA: Bisphenol A is a chemical used to make certain plastics. Look for bottles that are explicitly labeled “BPA-Free.”

💡 Hydration Hacks: Tips for Drinking More Water Daily


Video: What’s The BEST BOTTLED WATER? Here’s What The Rock WON’T Tell You!








Struggling to hit your daily water goal? We’ve got you.

  • Get a Bottle You Love: Seriously, it works. If you love your Owala FreeSip, you’re more likely to use it.
  • Flavor It Naturally: Add slices of lemon, cucumber, mint, or berries to your water for a refreshing, spa-like twist.
  • Set Reminders: Use an app or set alarms on your phone to remind you to take a few sips every hour.
  • Eat Your Water: Many fruits and vegetables, like watermelon, cucumber, and strawberries, have high water content and contribute to your overall hydration.
  • The “One-to-One” Rule: For every beverage you drink that isn’t water (like coffee or soda), drink a full glass of water.

✅ Our Final Verdict: Finding Your Perfect Hydration Match


Video: From Alkaline water to spring water, what’s the healthiest water to buy in the store?








So, what is the absolute best water to drink?

After all our testing, the answer is clear: the best water is the one you’ll drink the most of.

If you crave the pristine, clean taste of nature and want a naturally high pH, our top recommendation is Icelandic Glacial. Its purity and smooth taste are simply unmatched.

For those who prioritize a silky, luxurious mouthfeel, FIJI Water provides a unique and satisfying experience.

And for the most sustainable, affordable, and customizable option, nothing beats investing in a quality water filter and a reusable bottle to elevate your own tap water.

Ultimately, we encourage you to use our guide as a map to explore the vast world of water. Try a few different brands, pay attention to the source and the taste, and find the one that makes hydration a joy, not a chore. Cheers to that! 🥂

🏁 Conclusion: Sip Smart, Sip Happy!

a woman in a leopard print dress drinking from a water bottle

After our deep dive into the world of hydration, it’s clear there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to “What is the top 10 best water to drink?” Instead, it’s about finding the water that fits your taste, lifestyle, and values.

Our top picks each bring something unique to the table:

  • Icelandic Glacial dazzles with its volcanic purity and crisp, clean finish — perfect for those who want nature’s finest in a bottle.
  • FIJI Water offers a silky, smooth mouthfeel that feels like a mini-vacation with every sip.
  • Evian and Acqua Panna bring balanced mineral profiles and elegance, ideal for pairing with meals or savoring solo.
  • VOSS is the chic choice for those who want style and purity.
  • Enhanced waters like Essentia and Smartwater cater to athletes and those seeking electrolyte boosts.
  • And don’t forget the sustainability superstar: filtered tap water paired with a reusable bottle — the smartest, greenest, and often tastiest option.

Positives:

  • Wide variety of tastes and mineral profiles to suit different palates.
  • Options for natural spring, artesian, purified, and enhanced waters.
  • Packaging choices that range from eco-friendly glass to innovative aluminum.
  • Expert-tested purity and taste backed by scientific analysis.

Negatives:

  • Price can be a barrier for premium brands.
  • Some waters have polarizing tastes (mineral-heavy or “medicinal”).
  • Environmental concerns with single-use plastic bottles.
  • Alkaline water benefits remain scientifically inconclusive.

Our confident recommendation: Start with what you enjoy drinking most — because hydration is about consistency. If you want a premium experience, try Icelandic Glacial or FIJI. If you want to be eco-conscious and cost-effective, invest in a quality water filter and reusable bottle. Either way, drink up and stay hydrated!

Remember that the best water is the one that keeps you coming back for more — because when you love your water, drinking enough becomes effortless.

🔗 Recommended Links & Shopping

Ready to upgrade your hydration game? Check out these top picks and resources:

Books for the Hydration Curious:

  • “Your Body’s Many Cries for Water” by F. Batmanghelidj — A classic on the importance of hydration and its impact on health.
    Amazon Link

  • “The Water Secret” by Howard Murad — Explores the science behind water and skin health.
    Amazon Link

❓ Your Thirstiest Questions Answered: Water Brands™ FAQ

a row of glass bottles

What are the health benefits of the top 10 best waters to drink?

The health benefits primarily come from purity, mineral content, and hydration efficiency. Natural spring and mineral waters like Icelandic Glacial, Evian, and Mountain Valley provide essential minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium, which support bone health, muscle function, and electrolyte balance. Enhanced waters like Essentia and Smartwater add electrolytes to aid rapid hydration, especially after exercise. However, many benefits depend on overall diet and lifestyle rather than water alone.

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How does mineral content affect the quality of drinking water?

Mineral content, measured as Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), influences both taste and health benefits. Low TDS waters (like distilled or purified waters) taste very neutral or flat, while higher TDS waters (like mineral or spring waters) have distinct flavors due to minerals like calcium, magnesium, and bicarbonates. These minerals can contribute to daily nutrient intake and affect mouthfeel—some people prefer the crispness of low-mineral water, others the fuller taste of mineral-rich water.

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Which bottled water brands are considered the healthiest worldwide?

Brands sourced from protected natural springs or artesian wells with minimal processing are generally considered healthiest. These include Icelandic Glacial, FIJI Water, Evian, and Mountain Valley Spring Water. They offer natural mineral content and purity. Enhanced waters like Essentia provide added electrolytes but are purified first. Always check for third-party testing and certifications for safety.

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What is the difference between spring water and purified water?

  • Spring Water is collected directly from a natural spring and contains natural minerals.
  • Purified Water is treated to remove impurities and can originate from any source, including municipal tap water. It undergoes processes like reverse osmosis or distillation. Purified water typically has fewer minerals and a more neutral taste.

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How can you tell if drinking water is safe and high quality?

Look for:

  • Third-party testing certifications (e.g., NSF, FDA compliance).
  • Clear labeling of source and treatment methods.
  • Absence of off-flavors or odors.
  • Low levels of contaminants (heavy metals, bacteria, microplastics).
  • Transparent mineral content and pH information.
  • Positive reviews and reputable brand reputation.

What role does pH level play in choosing the best water to drink?

pH indicates acidity or alkalinity. Most natural waters have a pH between 6.5 and 8.5. While some claim alkaline water (pH > 7) offers health benefits, scientific evidence is limited. The body regulates blood pH tightly regardless of water pH. Choose water with a pH that tastes good to you and fits your health preferences.

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Are alkaline waters better for hydration than regular water?

Alkaline waters often contain added minerals and electrolytes, which can improve hydration efficiency, especially during intense physical activity. However, for most people, regular water hydrates just as well. The benefits of alkaline water beyond taste and hydration are still under scientific review.

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How do packaging materials affect water quality and taste?

Packaging can influence taste and environmental impact:

  • Plastic bottles may impart a plastic aftertaste and contribute to microplastic contamination.
  • Glass bottles preserve taste best and are recyclable but heavier.
  • Aluminum bottles (like Path Water) are reusable and eco-friendly.
  • BPA-free labeling is important to avoid harmful chemicals.

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Can tap water be as good as bottled water?

Absolutely! With proper filtration, tap water can be purified to high standards, removing chlorine, heavy metals, and contaminants. Many people prefer filtered tap water for its taste, cost-effectiveness, and environmental benefits. Investing in a quality filter and reusable bottle is a smart hydration move.

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Cheers to your best sip yet! 💧🥂

Review Team
Review Team

The Popular Brands Review Team is a collective of seasoned professionals boasting an extensive and varied portfolio in the field of product evaluation. Composed of experts with specialties across a myriad of industries, the team’s collective experience spans across numerous decades, allowing them a unique depth and breadth of understanding when it comes to reviewing different brands and products.

Leaders in their respective fields, the team's expertise ranges from technology and electronics to fashion, luxury goods, outdoor and sports equipment, and even food and beverages. Their years of dedication and acute understanding of their sectors have given them an uncanny ability to discern the most subtle nuances of product design, functionality, and overall quality.

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