5 Best Water Test Kits in 2021 – Reviews & Buying Guide
By Anna A. MadsenLast Updated on HoneForest Water Quality Tester
- It features backlit LCD for easy reading
- It is equipped with Automatic Temperature Compensation (ATC)
- Auto-Lock Function for easy reading and recording of the results
Safe Home Premium Drinking Water Test Kit
- It can test up to 50 contaminants (32 Toxic Metals, 12 Physical Properties, and 6 Inorganics)
- It is extremely safe and easy to use
- No additional charges to ship the water samples to the laboratory
Health Metric Drinking Water Test Kit
- It comes with all-in-one drinking water test kit
- It is highly accurate and affordable
- This water kit meets the safety standard set by the US EPA
Most people assume that water from any source is acceptable to drink unless it looks cloudy or has a foul taste and smell. Unfortunately, it is not always the case. Even crystal-clear water may be contaminated with microorganisms, harmful chemicals, lead, and bacteria.
These contaminants can seriously affect your health. So, it is important to test your water every once in a while to make sure you’re consuming safe and drinkable water.
That’s where the water test kits come in handy!
Basically, the water test kit is a convenient home appliance that detects the contaminants in your water and helps you take the necessary measures to ensure safety. This tiny tool can effectively detect contaminants, such as lead, iron, nitrites, nitrates, pesticides, hardness, bacteria, and alkalinity.
Well, you may expect the price of these testing kits to be excessively high. But the fact is these handy equipment costs relatively cheaper and provide a precise reading of water quality.
For your convenience, we have reviewed some of the best water test kits available in the market along with their features. Regardless of which one you prefer to buy, these test kits are highly accurate, efficient, and easy to use.
To help you even further, along with the comprehensive review, we have compiled a 30 seconds summary, quick summary, comparison chart, detailed buyer’s guide, and FAQs regarding the best water test kits.
So, let’s get into it!
Safe Home PREMIUM Drinking Water Test Kit
If you’re looking for a premium quality water test kit, we advise you go for Safe Home PREMIUM Drinking Water Test Kit. This tiny tool is capable of testing over 50 contaminants in your water, which is exceptionally high for a water test kit. Additionally, this model is much faster and reliable compared to other water test kits.
Quick Summary of Best Water Test Kits
| Product Image | Product Name | |
|---|---|---|
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Top Pick for Excellent Performance
Safe Home Premium Drinking Water Test Kit
This water test kit is a top-notch product that has the ability to test up to 50 water contaminants. With its advanced technology, this water kit provides highly reliable and accurate results regarding water quality. |
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Top Pick for Multifunctional Water Test Kit
HoneForest Water Quality Tester
With its Advanced Microprocessor Technology, this water test kit is one of the most reliable names in the market. Its effortless design combines TDS Meter, EC Meter, and Temperature Meter in a single system for your convenience and efficiency. |
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Budget-Friendly Water Test Kit
Health Metric Drinking Water Test Kit
Budget-friendly, simple, and accurate! Health Metric Drinking Water Test Kit is a highly effective appliance that monitors the harmful contaminants in your water with its 9-in-1 indicator. This model is probably the best choice for people who are short on budget but still do not want to compromise on the quality of the product. |
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Top Pick for Affordability and Efficiency
HM Digital TDS-EZ
HM Digital TDS-EZ is an inexpensive water test kit that takes care of business effortlessly. This digital tool tests the water purity level with its Advanced Microprocessor Technology and delivers precise as well as instant results. |
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Water Test Kit with 10 in 1 Tests
Test Assured Drinking Water Kit
Test Assured Drinking Water Test Kit is actually 10 tests wrapped up in a single package. With this handy system, you do not need to mail the samples to the laboratory. You can simply test your water quality and get instant results in less than 10 minutes! |
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Best Water Test Kits of 2021 - Reviewed
Safe Home Premium Drinking Water Test Kit
Features Highlights
- It can test up to 50 contaminants (32 Toxic Metals, 12 Physical Properties, and 6 Inorganics)
- It is extremely safe and easy to use
- No additional charges to ship the water samples to the laboratory
- EPA-Certified Laboratory Testing exceeds the Federal Maximum Contamination Limits set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
- Includes Do-It-Yourself Bacteria in water test
- It has excellent accuracy and dependability for drinking water safety
Product Specification
-
Dimensions:
8 x 2 x 6 inches
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Weight:
3.2 ounces
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Material:
Plastic
-
Warranty:
N/A
Safe Home Premium Drinking Water Test Kit features advanced technology that most of the water test kits available in the market do not offer. Combining a set of water quality test vessels, this water kit allows you to test over 50 contaminants in your drinking water. The optimum technology of this water kit also helps in providing faster and reliable results. The test vials of this product use premium media and include a special tamper-evident seal for additional protection.
Certified Lab Testing for 50 contaminants
Each package of Safe Home Premium Drinking Water Test Kit includes a set of water quality test vials that can test up to 50 contaminants. The testing lab of Safe Home is EPA Certified for Well Water and City Water. The certified lab testing provides the required accuracy to ensure if the water exceeds the Federal Maximum Contamination Limits.
Free Shipping Return
This product also provides Return Mailer to the EPA Certified Lab without any additional charges. And it is extremely easy to use. All you need to do is fill the testing vial, then fill out the paperwork. Place the items in the Return Mailer and drop it in the mailbox. You’ll then receive the report by email within 7 to 10 days. Simple as that!
FREE Do-It-Yourself Bacteria in Water Test Vial
The package of this product also includes FREE Do-It-Yourself Bacteria in Water Test Vial. This DIY test vial allows you to conduct the test by yourself at your home. It is easy and safe to use and provides accurate results within 24 hours. However, the time of the result may vary depending on the test.
Pros
- Tests up to 50 contaminants
- EPA-Certified Lab Testing
- Easy to use
- Free Return Mailer
- Provides a comprehensive report on the quality of water
Cons
- The turnaround time is relatively longer
- Water may contain contaminants that may not be identified by the kit
Our Verdict
If you’re looking for a high-performing water test kit, Safe Home Premium Drinking Water Test Kit should make it to your purchase-list. This tool is capable of detecting 50 different contaminants in your water. As the water samples are tested in a laboratory, the results are highly accurate and reliable. However, this test kit is slightly expensive than others on the list. If you’re looking for quality over money, investing in this premium product will be the right choice.
HoneForest Water Quality Tester
Features Highlights
- It features backlit LCD for easy reading
- It is equipped with Automatic Temperature Compensation (ATC)
- Auto-Lock Function for easy reading and recording of the results
- Auto-Off Function to preserve battery life
- It includes a colorful TDS chart that explains the ppm readings
Product Specification
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Dimensions:
6.3 x 1.1 x 0.6 inches
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Weight:
1.6 ounces
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Material:
Plastic
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Warranty:
3 Years Warranty
HoneForest Water Quality Tester is a must-have tool for every household. Powered by Advanced Microprocessor Technology, this handy water kit combines 3 in 1 pen with TDS Meter, EC Meter, and Temperature Meter. This water kit can be useful to test water from all sources, including filtered water and distilled water.
Accurate and Reliable
This water test kit is equipped with a high-quality titanium alloy probe that provides highly accurate results. Additionally, this water test kit also features Automatic Temperature Compensation (ATC) that makes the reading extremely easy and accurate, even at different temperatures.
Multifunctional and Upgraded
This handy appliance serves as one of the most versatile water test kits with its 3-in-1 pen. This kit includes professional TDS Meter, EC Meter, as well as Temperature Meter for higher efficiency. This system is also upgraded with backlit LCD that allows you to read the results like never before.
Easy and Instantaneous
This water kit is ridiculously easy to use. Simply turn the TDS meter on and gently stir the water. Within seconds, the stabilized readings will be auto-locked on the LCD monitor with accurate results. If the system does not operate for 2 minutes, the TDS ppm meter will turn off automatically to preserve the battery.
Multipurpose TDS Tester
Not only does this appliance come handy for testing the quality of the water, but the TDS tester of this system also monitors if your Reverse Osmosis Systems is working properly. It also indicates if the system requires filter replacement. Additionally, it also helps to maintain the water quality of your aquarium and swimming pool.
Pros
- Equipped with premium titanium alloy probe
- Includes TDS Meter, EC Meter, and Temperature Meter in a single pen
- Easy to use
- Also serves as multipurpose TDS tester
- The system is backed by 3-years warranty
Cons
- At times, the switch modes button may not function
Our Verdict
Along with being accurate and reliable, HoneForest Water Quality Tester is also user-oriented. With the combination of TDS Meter, EC Meter, and Temperature Meter in a single pen, this test kit is highly effective and instantaneous. The system is equipped with Advanced Microprocessor Technology that works its magic to detect the harmful chemicals and water contaminants within a few seconds.
Health Metric Drinking Water Test Kit
Features Highlights
- It comes with all-in-one drinking water test kit
- It is highly accurate and affordable
- This water kit meets the safety standard set by the US EPA
- It is easy to operate and requires no professional knowledge
- This system provides immediate results
Product Specification
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Dimensions:
2.5 x 5.8 x 4.3 inches
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Weight:
3.2 ounces
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Material:
Plastic
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Warranty:
N/A
Health Metric Drinking Water Test Kit is a straightforward water testing kit for anyone, even for those with zero knowledge about the equipment. This appliance is made in the USA within the limits of the Environmental Protection Agency. The results of the system are highly reliable and accurate to single out water contaminants that can cause serious health issues.
Meets EPA Standards
Health Metric Drinking Water Test Kit is a premium quality water kit that is made in the United States within the standards of the Environmental Protection Agency. This means you can compare the test results with EPA guidelines and recommendations for water quality.
Comprehensive and Accurate
This drinking water test kit includes 9 water tests at an extremely affordable price. This high-quality water kit is designed to detect even the tiniest amounts of copper and lead in the water. And it does not stop there, this handy kit also tests bacteria and other contaminants that can cause serious health problems, including alkalinity, nitrates, hardness, and chlorine.
Easy Operations
This water testing appliance is extremely easy to operate and provides immediate results. Even if you have zero knowledge regarding this system, you will have no complications using it! This system does not require laboratory testing. All you need to do is follow the step-by-step instruction manual and compare the result with the color chart.
Pros
- The package includes nine water tests
- It meets the standard of US EPA
- Easy to use with step-by-step manual
- It provides immediate results
- It comes with an affordable price
Cons
- Sometimes, it gives dramatically different results for the same water
Our Verdict
If you’re looking for a relatively inexpensive water test kit that does not compromise in quality and performance, you should consider buying Health Metric Drinking Water Test Kit. It has a pretty straightforward design that requires absolutely no skills to use. This product also meets the safety standards of the United States EPA.
HM Digital TDS-EZ
Features Highlights
- Affordable water kit ideal for all kinds of end-users.
- Extremely accurate and efficient due to its Advanced Microprocessor Technology.
- It includes an auto-off function that shuts off automatically within 10 minutes to conserve batteries
- It includes a large and easy-to-read LCD screen
- It features ‘Hold Function’ that saves test measurements for easy reading and recording
Product Specification
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Dimensions:
6.1 x 1.25 x 1 inches
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Weight:
2 Ounces
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Material:
Plastic
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Warranty:
2 Years Warranty
HM Digital TDS-EZ is a great tool for testing the water purity level to ensure that the water you’re consuming is clean and safe. It is equipped with Advanced Microprocessor Technology that provides accurate results within a few seconds. This inexpensive model is ideal for those who are looking for cheaper alternatives to premium quality water test kits.
Accurate and Reliable
This water test kit features the Advanced Microprocessor Technology that ensures accurate as well as efficient results. The readings are exceptionally precise with measurement capacity from 0-999 ppm. Additionally, this water test kit also includes an LCD screen for easy reading.
Built Quality
HM Digital TDS-EZ is built with high-quality plastic, and the manufacturing process is carefully monitored to ensure the quality of the product is top-class. This product also includes carbon that is certified under the National Safety Foundation. Additionally, all the components used in this model is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Advanced Features
This appliance also has some handy features for your convenience. It includes a ‘Hold Function’ that allows you to record the test reading. It is also equipped with Auto-Off Technology that turns the system off automatically when not in use to preserve battery.
Pros
- Hold Function to save the measurement for easy reading
- It provides over 1,000 hours of usage
- Includes large LCD screen
- Auto-Off Function
- Measurement capacity from 0-999 ppm
Cons
- At times, the readings may not be consistent in back-to-back testing
- Water temperature highly impacts the readings
- The calibration is slightly complicated
Our Verdict
If you’re looking for an affordable alternative to a high-quality water test kit, HM Digital TDS-EZ is your best bet! Powered by Advanced Microprocessor Technology, this tool is super efficient and provides the test results on the spot!
Test Assured Drinking Water Kit
Features Highlights
- It contains 10 different tests in a single package
- The test result is instantaneous and requires no lab testing
- It is made with high-quality materials in the United States
- It is backed by a 100% money-back guarantee
- This tool meets the EPA standards
Product Specification
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Dimensions:
8.1 x 1.7 x 5 inches
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Weight:
1.6 ounces
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Material:
Plastic
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Warranty:
100% Money Back Guarantee
With ten tests wrapped up in a single package, Test Assured Drinking Water Kit is a highly effective tool to determine the water purity level. This product is effortless to use and the test can be done in your home. Like all other Test Assured products, this test kit is also calibrated to EPA standards. Additionally, this model comes with a 100% money-back guarantee. This means if you’re not satisfied with the performance of the product after purchase, the manufacturer’s will refund your money without any question.
10 Tests in One
The package of the Test Assured Drinking Water Kit comes with a comprehensive 10-in-1 test that helps to identify harmful elements in your water. It includes tests for Bacteria, Pesticide, Lead, Copper, Alkalinity, Iron, pH, Chlorine, Nitrates, Hardness, and Nitrites.
Instant Result
This water test kit comes with a digital TDS screen that indicates the test results. The samples do not need to be tested in the laboratory to find out the water quality. With this handy tool, you can get the result within seconds. All you need to do is compare the test strip with the color chart and get the results.
Built Quality
This water test kit does not compromise when it comes to the built quality. This appliance is made in the United States under the standards of the Environmental Protection Agency. This means you can also compare your test results with EPA guidelines and recommendations for water quality limits.
Money-Back Guarantee
Test Assured Drinking Water Test Kit is backed by a 100% money-back guarantee. If you’re not satisfied with this water testing kit, the manufacturer’s will refund you with every penny you’ve paid.
Pros
- It contains 10 tests in a single product
- Easy operation and instant result
- 100% money-back guarantee
- Does not require lab testing
Cons
- The instructions in the user manual are slightly complicated
Our Verdict
Test Assured Drinking Water Kit is a great tool to test your water quality as it comprises 10 different tests in a single pack. It does not require laboratory testing. With this kit, you can simply test the water purity level directly from your home. Not just that, the manufacturer also provides a 100% money-back guarantee. So, if you’re not satisfied with the product, simply send it back and get refunds!
Comparison Table
| Best Water Test Kits | Dimension (in inches) | Weight (Ounce) | Materials | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safe Home PREMIUM Drinking Water Test Kit | 8 x 2 x 6 | 3.2 | Plastic | N/A |
| HoneForest Water Quality Tester | 6.3 x 1.1 x 0.6 | 1.6 | Plastic | 3 Years |
| Health Metric Drinking Water Test Kit | 2.5 x 5.8 x 4.3 | 3.2 | Plastic | N/A |
| HM Digital TDS-EZ Water Quality TDS Tester | 6.1 x 1.25 x 1 | 2 | Plastic | 2 Years |
| Test Assured Drinking Water Kit | 8.1 x 1.7 x 5 | 1.6 | Plastic | 100% Money-Back Guarantee |
What is a Water Test Kit?
If the term water test kit is new to you and you’re not aware of how it actually operates, have no worries! It is a simple tool designed to detect contaminants present in the water. Well, you may think that you have to spend a hefty amount to test your water quality. Thankfully, that’s not true with the water test kits. Not only is this handy tool quick and easy to operate, but it is exceptionally affordable.
In general, these water kits monitor whether the water you’re consuming contains contaminants or not. It can effectively check contaminants such as bacteria, iron, chlorine, pesticides, lead, hardness, alkalinity, pH and so on.
Types of Water Test Kits
Color Disk Kits
Color disk kits are available for testing a wide range of chemicals in the water. These water test kits work by adding a few drops of water or a powder packet to a sample in a reusable plastic tube. Later, the tubes need to be placed in a small viewing box.
The viewing box contains a plastic color disk that has a certain color gradient on it. Then, you will have to rotate the plastic disk to find the portion that matches the color of the sample. Once you find a match, all you have to do is read the concentration of the chemical from the disk to find out the quality of your water.
Color disk kits are usually pricier than other water test kits. However, they tend to provide more accurate results when it comes to water purity levels.
Test Strips
Test strips are the most affordable method to test water quality. This method offers instant results, but it may not be as accurate as other methods. Basically, test strips are tiny, single-use strips that alter the color according to the contaminants present in the water. These strips have the ability to indicate the concentration of a specific chemical through color transformation.
While it depends on the specific tests, but most of the time, you will have to activate the plastic strip. To active the strip, you need to dip it into the water sample and move it around. In other tests, you have to hold the strip in the water, wait for a while, and then compare it to the color chart featured on the test kit.
Hand-Held Digital Instruments
Out of all the other kits, the hand-held digital instrument is the most accurate and reliable type of water test kit. With this extremely lightweight and portable kit, you simply can not go wrong. However, they require calibration and need batteries to operate. And, these kits also tend to be more expensive than other water testing kits.
Benefits of Water Test Kits
If you’re planning to purchase a water test kit, you need to be aware of the benefits that comes along with it. So, here are a few benefits of water test kits that’ll make this product worth a buy:
You can test water quality in your home
One best thing about water test kits is that you do not need to hire any experts to check your water quality. You can simply do it yourself at your home. Depending upon the type of test kit, you may have to use different methods to test the water. The final report will indicate if the water you’re consuming is safe or not.
You do not need to worry about contamination
Water contaminants can have a massive impact on your health and cause serious problems. Water test kits measure the water quality and indicate if the water is safe or not. Thus, if the test report is negative, you can take the necessary safety measures to stop the contamination and make the water drinkable.
Cost-effective
Well, it may be hard to believe, but the water test kits are extremely affordable and they come at a very low price. It saves you a lot of money as you do not need to buy expensive appliances to get rid of the contamination.
Important Things to Consider Before Buying a Water Test Kit
While all the water test kits are effective tools to detect contaminants in water, the system differs from one another in several factors. Stroll around the market and you’ll come across plenty of options. At times, it might be difficult to choose the right system that matches your preference. So, here are a few important things you need to consider before buying a water test kit:
Contaminants
Depending upon the test kits, their ability to detect the variety of contaminants differ. While some tests can identify a variety of contaminants, others can detect only a few. The latter ones are slightly less expensive. However, the kits that can detect a wide range of water contaminants are more useful. Although relatively expensive, this kit is more accurate and reliable to determine the type of contaminants in your water.
Water Source
Before you buy a water test kit, you need to think about the water source you use. If you’re using this tool to check the water quality of tap water, a low-priced product will do the job. However, if you’re using the tool to test water from a public water supply, well water, or a pool, you need to invest in a high-quality test kit.
Testing Procedure
As you already know, different test kits use different testing procedures to test the water. Some are more instant than others. These kits do not require laboratory testing and can be done by yourself at home. However, if you’re okay with waiting a week or two, you should consider sending the sample to the laboratory, as it is more accurate than others.
FAQs
Well, it actually depends! The US EPA recommends that you test the water at least once a year. This will help you find every microorganism in the water you’re consuming. Additionally, every two to three years, you should test the water for harmful chemicals and elemental contaminants.
In case of emergencies like flooding or earthquake, you should test your water quality as soon as possible.
It depends on the water test kit you use. Depending on the kit you’re using, you will be able to identify the contaminants by sending it directly to the laboratory or by using different methods such as color test strips, water test strips, and hand-held digital instruments.
Definitely! Testing your water every once in a while can prevent you from serious health issues. It is the only way to find out if the water you’re consuming contains contaminants or not.
Conclusion
Well, there you go! That’s our say on the best water test kits available in the market. Each of these products is highly effective for testing the quality of water. While the methods of testing and price may differ from one product to another, their performance is top-notch and the results are exceptionally precise. Therefore, it's up to you to decide which product to buy according to your needs and budget. Cheers!
