MSR Sweetwater

This water purifier comes with an extensive suite of parts, and it is these that nudged it into first place in our test. The details of the kit mean you get a pre-filter and float. But you also get an adapter that allows you to attach the outflow pipe to various water bottles. The pump itself works very effectively with an impressive 1 litre per minute flow rate. An added bonus is a pressure valve to prevent someone from forcing water through the unit, which prevents bursting the seals. The basic filter removes bacteria and parasites, but the system comes with a purifier to kill viruses. The MSR costs just £70, but you are getting a few extra features compared to some others, including a 2 litre Platypus water bottle. If you want one unit to provide efficient levels of performance anywhere in the world coupled with reasonable running costs, reasonable weight and a reasonable price this is the best option. You also get a few extra features that are very worthwhile in the field. But while the Sweetwater has a service life of 750 litres (which is far better than many units), others have a service life of 7000 litres, so the MSR is not the best unit for long distance travellers. The Sweetwater”s running costs are 9.3p per litre so again regular users should look at the alternatives. If weight is important the MSR may lose out to lighter rivals.

Filter type: 0.0002mm filter, carbon
+ purifier solution
Replacement cartridge: £60
Effectiveness: bacteria, parasites, viruses
Flow rate: 1 litre per minute
Service life: 750 litres
Packed size: 19x10x8cm
Running costs:
1 litre = 9.3p up to 750 litres;
1 litre = 8.0p over 750 litres
Weight: 320g
Made in USA
Stores in UK: no info provided