The 7 models reduce to 3 real choices
| What you're buying | Models | Key distinction |
|---|---|---|
| 8-stage UV countertop (no bundle) | Glacier, Obsidian, Sapphire | Color only — pick your finish. Platinum adds NSF/ANSI 58 & 61 certification. |
| Same countertop + spare filters | PAC+CF, PAC+RO+CF bundle | Identical system + replacement cartridges in the box. Convenient, not cheaper. |
| Under-sink + auto-fill pitcher | Under-Sink (B0GHY6MMY4) | Different product — 4-stage, under-sink install, auto-fill pitcher, fridge/ice maker compatible |
The 4 countertop color variants — what's the same and what differs
Glacier (white), Platinum (grey), Obsidian (black), and Sapphire (blue) are all 8-stage RO + UV countertop systems with a built-in TDS monitor, filter-change indicator, and plug-and-play no-plumb setup. Flow rate is 0.9 L/min across all four. The one functional distinction: the Platinum specifically carries NSF/ANSI 58 and 61 certification. If independently verified certification documentation matters to you, that's the model to choose. Otherwise pick by colour.
| Model | Colour | NSF certified | Stages | Flow | ASIN |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Glacier | White | Not specified | 8 + UV | 0.9 L/min | B0H5QMSXNH |
| Platinum ⭐ | Grey | NSF/ANSI 58 & 61 | 8 + UV | 0.9 L/min | B0GSY7JBNK |
| Obsidian | Black | References NSF/ANSI | 8 + UV | 0.9 L/min | B0GQKWK6HW |
| Sapphire | Blue | Not specified | 8 + UV | 0.9 L/min | B0GSY7VD54 |
Waken Platinum — the pick if certification matters
The Platinum is the only Waken countertop model with explicit NSF/ANSI 58 and 61 certification documented in its listing. NSF 58 covers RO contaminant reduction (PFAS, lead, TDS, nitrates, arsenic, etc.). NSF 61 covers drinking water system components and materials safety. For buyers who want independently verified claims rather than manufacturer-stated performance, the Platinum is the correct choice within the Waken lineup. All other specifications — 8-stage RO + UV, 0.9 L/min, TDS monitor, plug-and-play — are identical to the other colour variants.
Waken Platinum on Amazon →All colour variants — same system, pick your finish
Countertop model specifications (all 4 colour variants)
| Waken Countertop RO — all colour variants | |
|---|---|
| Filtration stages | 8-stage RO + UV sterilization |
| Flow rate | 0.9 litres per minute |
| Contaminants targeted | PFAS, chlorine, chloramine, heavy metals, dissolved solids, bacteria (UV stage) |
| TDS monitor | Built-in, real-time display |
| Filter change indicator | Yes — alerts when filters are due |
| Installation | Countertop, plug-and-play — no plumbing required |
| Power | Required (pump and UV) |
| Best for | Renters, small kitchens, apartments, dorms |
| Situations | Renting, hard water areas, small kitchens, entertaining, baby formula |
Pros
- 8-stage RO + UV — broad contaminant reduction
- Built-in TDS monitor and filter-change indicator
- No plumbing — true plug-and-play
- Portable for renters and movers
- Positive reviewer sentiment on taste and setup
Cons
- Countertop footprint — takes counter space
- 0.9 L/min flow is modest for large households
- Power outlet required
- Not ideal for fridge/ice maker supply
PAC+CF and PAC+RO+CF bundles — same system with spare filters
The two bundle ASINs (B0GL1RRDYJ and B0GL1S4DJK) are the same countertop unit packaged with replacement filter sets. The PAC+CF bundle includes PAC (Powdered Activated Carbon) and CF (Carbon Filter) replacement cartridges. The PAC+RO+CF bundle adds an RO membrane cartridge to that. Neither bundle changes the system itself — this is purely about including spare filters at purchase.
PAC+CF Bundle
System + PAC and CF replacement filters. Pre-carbon and post-carbon covered. Good starting point if you want the first annual replacement set ready to go.
Check Price →PAC+RO+CF Bundle
System + PAC, RO membrane, and CF replacement filters. All three filter types covered. Most comprehensive starting package if you want to avoid early reorders.
Check Price →Waken Under-Sink — best for families and continuous supply
The Under-Sink model is a fundamentally different product from the countertop variants. It installs under the sink with standard plumbing connections, uses 4-stage RO at 0.0001 micron, and pairs with a countertop auto-fill pitcher that refills automatically. The pitcher keeps filtered water continuously available without manual refilling cycles. Compatible with refrigerators and ice makers for broader household use.
The auto-fill pitcher is the key differentiator — reviewers specifically praise the combination of under-sink filtration with the countertop pitcher that stays full for family use without the manual cycle of a countertop-only system. Suitable for family kitchens, small offices, and anyone feeding a fridge or ice maker alongside a drinking water faucet. Installation is moderate complexity compared to the plug-and-play countertop models.
| Under-Sink specs | |
|---|---|
| Filtration | 4-stage RO at 0.0001 micron |
| Pitcher | Countertop auto-fill pitcher included |
| Fridge/ice maker | Compatible |
| Installation | Moderate — under-sink plumbing required |
| Best for | Families, offices, continuous supply, fridge hookup |
Common questions
What is the difference between Glacier, Platinum, Obsidian, and Sapphire?
Colour only — white, grey, black, and blue respectively. All four are the same 8-stage RO + UV countertop system at 0.9 L/min. The Platinum specifically carries NSF/ANSI 58 and 61 certification documented in its listing. If certification matters, choose Platinum. Otherwise choose by colour.
What do the PAC+CF and PAC+RO+CF bundles include?
Both are the same countertop unit packaged with replacement filter sets. PAC+CF includes pre- and post-carbon cartridges. PAC+RO+CF adds the RO membrane. Convenient if you want spare filters from day one, but the underlying system is identical to the individual models.
How does the Under-Sink differ from the countertop models?
It's a different product — 4-stage RO under-sink install with a countertop auto-fill pitcher that keeps filtered water continuously available. Compatible with fridges and ice makers. Moderate installation complexity. Best for families, higher-volume use, or fridge supply where a countertop model's flow rate would be limiting.
Does Waken RO require plumbing?
The four countertop colour variants and two bundles are all plug-and-play — no plumbing changes needed. The Under-Sink model requires under-sink installation with cold water supply and drain connections.