Filtering water just got a heck of a lot smarter.
Our editors and experts handpick every product we feature. We may earn a commission from your purchases.
Learn more.
I Tried the High-Tech Larq Pitcher, and Water Has Never Tasted Cleaner
Updated on Oct. 03, 2024
When I moved into my current apartment, one of the first things I noticed was the water. It didn’t taste bad, per se, but it had a faint chlorine smell and lacked a crisp, refreshing taste.
As a renter, my pursuit of clean, tasty water was limited. I couldn’t order a fancy water-dispensing fridge or install a reverse osmosis faucet, so I settled on a water filter pitcher—specifically, the Larq pitcher.
What is the Larq pitcher?
The 64-ounce Larq pitcher looks like a traditional water filtration device—except it’s much smarter. You start by inserting a filter. Larq has two options: Essential, for removing chlorine, heavy metals and VOCs; and Advanced, for further nixing lead, PFAs and pharmaceuticals. When you fill the pitcher, water travels through the filter and begins to purify. Pretty standard stuff.
But then, Larq’s PureVis wand takes purification to the next level. The glowing UV light kills any remaining contaminants, and you’re left with fresh, clean water.
On Sale
We Tried It
Larq Pitcher
This pitcher filters up to 60 gallons of water with just one filter.
Larq Pitcher Features
The Larq pitcher offers great accessories and features that make setup and use simple. It includes a 64-ounce pitcher, USB charger, filter and quick-start guide.
The standout feature is its two-stage filtration with PureVis™ UV-C purification, capable of filtering up to 60 gallons and removing bacteria for pure-tasting water. The UV light lasts up to four weeks on a single charge, ideal for frequent use. Users can choose between Advanced or Essential filters based on their needs.
Larq’s self-cleaning function keeps the system fresh. It tracks water intake and filter life and can be paired with the Larq smartphone app for easy monitoring.
Compliant with NSF/ANSI 42, 53 and 401 standards, the Larq pitcher is safe for children and pets. Available in Monaco blue and pure white, it offers a stylish design with customization options. For added convenience, the brand also provides automatic filter renewals every two or six months and a 12-month warranty.
How We Tested It
When my Larq pitcher arrived, there were a few prep steps to take before I could start filtering. First, I unwrapped and washed the pitcher. Then, I charged the PureVis wand. I was a little skeptical of bringing another item I need to charge into my home, but luckily, the Larq battery lasts for weeks at a time. Finally, I placed the filter in a bowl of water for 10 minutes to remove any residual dust.
Once all of the pieces were ready to use, I assembled the pitcher and filled it up with water. Putting liquid so close to the high-tech PureVis wand made me a little nervous—water and tech don’t mix, right? But no need to stress, the wand is completely waterproof.
As water enters the pitcher, the PureVis mode automatically activates and, I’ll admit, it’s pretty impressive. The pulsing blue light breathes throughout the entire filtration process to ensure each drop is perfectly purified.
Per the Larq instructions, I poured out the first batch of water. After round two, though, it was finally time to taste. Right away I noticed that the chlorine smell was gone. And even better? My water tasted like, well, nothing. It was smooth, crisp and lacked that slightly metallic tap water aftertaste.
I was also pleasantly surprised by how efficient the Larq pitcher is at filtering water. The traditional pitchers I’ve used in the past seem to trickle water through the filter, drop by drop. Larq provides a steady stream, and the entire process takes less than five minutes.
Plus, for users who want to get even more technical, Larq has its own app. You can track the health of your filter, review water consumption and even activate the PureVis feature with the touch of a button.
Looking for more smart water hacks? First, pick up our editor-favorite bottle, the Stanley tumbler. Then, learn how to clean with Bottle Bright tablets and organize with water bottle storage ideas. Genius!
Pros
- Two-step purification process makes water clean and crisp
- Plant-based filters use less plastic and are more sustainable
- Technology tells you when it’s time to change the filter
- Surprisingly fast filtering process
- Sleek design
- Integrated app
Cons
- On the pricier side
- Only works with Larq-brand filters
- Pitcher capacity may not be suitable for large families
Why You Should Trust Us
Katie Bandurski, senior shopping editor at Taste Recipes, has over eight years of expertise in reviewing kitchen, food and lifestyle products. A pioneer of the Taste Recipes shopping team, she has contributed to over 2,000 product reviews. With her extensive knowledge in selecting household items, she is an ideal candidate to review the Larq pitcher.
Alexandra Mantella, Content Updates Editor at Taste Recipes, updated and contributed research to this piece. She has over five years of experience in product testing, research and commerce writing. Previously, she served as a commerce content update editor at Bob Vila.
FAQ
Does the Larq pitcher actually work?
Yes, the Larq pitcher features a two-stage filtration process that removes bacteria and harsh chemicals, making it highly effective. It also has a self-cleaning function that keeps the internal components fresh and in working order.
How long does the Larq pitcher filter last?
The Larq pitcher filter is designed to last over three months and filters around 60 gallons of water. While the filters are priced higher, their longevity and effectiveness offer reliability and peace of mind, making the cost worthwhile.
How much water does the Larq pitcher hold?
The Larq pitcher holds up to 64 ounces of water and tracks usage, which is great for those monitoring their water intake with a health or wellness app.
What Other Reviewers Had to Say
We’re not the only ones turning to the Larq pitcher for cleaner, fresher water. The PureVis has over 800 reviews and a 4.7 out of five-star average rating.
Though Larq is an excellent water filter pitcher, many other options on the market claim to do a good job. We compared the Larq with some top water filter pitchers to see how each measured up.
First, we looked at the Brita Metro Water Pitcher. Both pitchers effectively filter impurities and harsh chemicals, include filter tracking and are made with BPA-free materials. However, Larq surpasses Brita in filtration with its bacteria-removing filters and self-cleaning function that enhances water taste, whereas Brita must be washed by hand.
Brita, however, has an advantage in filter longevity, as its elite cartridge lasts up to six months before needing replacement.
Next, we examined the Hydros Pitcher. Both Larq and Hydros have 64-ounce capacities, modern designs and BPA-free construction, but there are key differences.
Hydros wins on speed, filtering water instantly, which is ideal for those who exercise frequently or need water for multiple users. It also offers more color options to match kitchen aesthetics.
When it comes to filtration, Larq once again takes the lead. Hydros meets NSF 42/Class 1 standards, but Larq complies with NSF/ANSI 42, 53, and 401 standards, offering superior filtration.
In the end, each pitcher offers unique and useful features for different preferences, but Larq stands out for having the best filtration.
Final Verdict
First, let’s talk about the elephant in the room: There’s no denying that the Larq pitcher is expensive. At $168, it’s nearly five times the price of comparably sized traditional pitchers. If you have clean well water or high-quality tap water, there’s likely no need for a Larq.
But for everyone else, I appreciate the peace of mind the Larq pitcher provides. There’s no denying that it makes my eight glasses a day taste cleaner and more refined. Plus, I can drink easy knowing it’s removing chlorine, heavy metals and mold—and the PureVis wand technology is keeping those pollutants at bay.
Where to Buy the Larq Pitcher
On Sale
We Tried It
Larq Pitcher
This pitcher filters up to 60 gallons of water with just one filter.
You can pick up the Larq pitcher on Amazon, Williams Sonoma and the brand’s website for $168. This way to fresh, clean water!
