Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

Brita's basic pitcher works reasonably well. but is more awkward to use than their nicer pitchers. I've pictured this Everyday Pitcher alongside the more expensive Monterey model (both are 10-cup capacity). As far as the awkward goes: The handle is a little uncomfortable. The water pours kind of slowly (glugging out, instead of pouring smoothly). Pouring out the last couple of cups requires upending the pitcher. If you've just filled the top of the pitcher, you'll have to wait for it to filter through, because otherwise unfiltered water leaks substantially from the top when you try to pour. The wide-open top (when filling) can more easily allow contamination (splashes, drips, clumsy kids) than a smaller opening. There's nothing fancy about this model. No hinges or joints, no filter-change indicator. Simple also means nothing to break, and mine has lasted through heavy use for nearly three years. I take it apart every few months and scrub everything (bleaching if there's any algae growth). The only noteworthy sign of aging is a build up of dark gunk under the clear sticker on the outside/bottom of the pitcher. That sticker is hard to remove, but has separated enough to allow water/etc to enter the gap (aesthetic issue only). Brita filters work well, the water tastes great even if you have decent tap water already-- I won't reiterate what others have said. Particularly for drinking plain, or making coffee, it's well worth using filtered water (and cheaper than bottled water). These filters also remove a noteworthy amount of various metals that might be present in your water supply. (I bought mine at a local B&M store, but Amazon is priced competitively) Recommended over their fancier pitchers, if you're trying to save a few dollars.