Water distillation is the oldest and most thorough water purification method available. The process is simple: heat water to boiling, capture the steam, and condense it back into liquid. Contaminants that can’t evaporate — heavy metals, minerals, salts, bacteria, viruses, PFAS, nitrates, and virtually every dissolved solid — stay behind in the boiling chamber. The condensed steam is as close to pure H2O as you can get outside a laboratory. Distillation removes 99.9%+ of virtually all contaminants, including many that reverse osmosis and carbon filtration miss.
Modern countertop water distillers have made this ancient technology practical for home use. They’re essentially electric kettles with a condensing coil: fill the boiling chamber with tap water, press a button, and collect purified water in a glass or stainless steel carafe. Most models produce 1 gallon every 4-6 hours, which is enough for a household’s daily drinking and cooking needs. The machines are simple, reliable, and have very few parts that can fail.
The trade-offs are real, though. Distillation is slow — you’re waiting hours, not seconds, for purified water. It’s energy-intensive — producing 1 gallon requires approximately 3 kWh of electricity, costing $0.30-$0.50 per gallon depending on your electricity rate. And distilled water tastes flat because it contains zero minerals. Some people love the clean, neutral taste; others find it unpleasant. If you’ve been drinking mineral-rich water your whole life, the transition to distilled water takes adjustment. But for sheer purification thoroughness, nothing matches distillation — not even reverse osmosis.
Megahome MH943SBS Countertop Water Distiller (Stainless Steel with Glass Carafe)<br />
Best Water Distillers for Home Use — 7 Countertop Models Compared
1. Megahome MH943SBS Stainless Steel Distiller with Glass Carafe — Best Overall
Megahome Corporation has been manufacturing countertop water distillers since 1992 — they’re the only product the company makes, and that singular focus shows in the build quality. The MH943SBS is their flagship model: full 304 stainless steel construction inside and out (boiling chamber, upper steam dome, condensing coils, and exterior body), with a 1-gallon borosilicate glass collection carafe. Water only touches stainless steel and glass throughout the entire distillation process — no plastic contact whatsoever.
The distiller produces 1 gallon of distilled water every 5.5 hours at 580 watts. An internal thermostat automatically shuts the unit off when the cycle completes, so you can start it before bed and wake up to a gallon of purified water. Each cycle includes a post-carbon filter (activated charcoal sachet) in the carafe nozzle that captures volatile organic compounds (VOCs) — the one category of contaminants that can evaporate with steam and potentially carry over into the distilled water. Megahome includes 6 carbon filter sachets; replacements cost approximately $8-$12 for a 12-pack.
The MH943SBS retails for $250-$330 depending on the retailer. The stainless steel exterior version costs $30-$50 more than the white enamel version (MH943TWS), but the all-stainless construction is more durable and easier to clean. The glass carafe is a significant advantage over plastic collection containers — no BPA concerns, no plastic taste, and the glass doesn’t absorb odors or stain over time. Megahome distillers are one of the only UL-approved (Underwriters Laboratories) water distillers available, which means they’ve been independently tested for electrical safety.
Maintenance is straightforward: clean the boiling chamber every 1-2 weeks (mineral deposits accumulate and need to be removed with citric acid or white vinegar), replace the carbon filter sachets every 4-6 uses, and occasionally descale the heating element. The boiling chamber residue is actually informative — it shows you exactly what was in your water. The first time you see the brown, crusty residue left behind after distilling tap water, you’ll understand why people invest in distillation.
2. H2o Labs 300SS Best-in-Class Countertop Distiller — Best for VOC Removal
The H2o Labs 300SS is the closest competitor to the Megahome in build quality and performance. It features a 304 stainless steel boiling chamber and condensing coils, a porcelain-lined nozzle insert (which prevents any metal taste in the final drops of each cycle), and a 1-gallon glass carafe. The 300SS designation indicates the stainless steel exterior model — H2o Labs also offers white enamel versions at a lower price point.
What distinguishes the H2o Labs from the Megahome is the emphasis on VOC removal. The 300SS includes an optimized activated carbon post-filter design that H2o Labs claims provides superior VOC capture compared to standard carbon sachets. VOCs (volatile organic compounds) like benzene, toluene, and chloroform have boiling points close to water and can carry over in steam during distillation. The carbon filter catches these compounds as the distilled water passes through on its way to the carafe. H2o Labs provides detailed documentation on their VOC removal testing — a level of transparency that’s uncommon in this product category.
The 300SS retails for $200-$280 on Amazon and H2o Labs’ direct website. Production rate is 1 gallon per approximately 5-6 hours at 580 watts — essentially identical to the Megahome. The porcelain nozzle insert is a thoughtful detail: at the end of each distillation cycle, the last few drops of water pass through the nozzle at high temperature, and porcelain ensures no metallic taste from heated stainless steel. Replacement carbon filters cost approximately $10-$15 for a 12-pack.
The H2o Labs and Megahome are so similar in performance that the choice often comes down to availability and price. Both use 304 stainless steel interiors, both produce 1 gallon per cycle, both include glass carafes and carbon post-filters. The H2o Labs’ porcelain nozzle and VOC-focused marketing give it a slight edge for users specifically concerned about volatile organic compounds. The Megahome’s UL approval gives it an edge for users who prioritize third-party safety certification. Either is an excellent choice.
3. CO-Z 1750W 1.1-Gallon Water Distiller — Best Value
The CO-Z 1750W model is the best-selling water distiller on Amazon, and the reason is simple: it produces distilled water faster than any other countertop model at a competitive price. The 1750-watt heating element cuts distillation time to approximately 2.5-3 hours per gallon — roughly half the time of the 580W Megahome and H2o Labs models. For households that go through 2-3 gallons of distilled water per day, that speed difference is significant.
The CO-Z features a 304 stainless steel boiling chamber and condensing coils, a 1.1-gallon (4-liter) glass collection container, dual temperature displays (showing both boiling chamber and outlet temperatures), and a programmable timer (0-99 hours). The timer is a useful feature that the Megahome and H2o Labs lack — you can set it to run for a specific duration rather than relying solely on the automatic shutoff. The dual temperature display lets you monitor the distillation process in real time.
The CO-Z 1750W retails for $128-$160 on Amazon — significantly less than the Megahome or H2o Labs. The trade-off for the faster distillation is higher electricity consumption: at 1750W, each gallon costs approximately $0.50-$0.85 in electricity (depending on your rate), compared to $0.35-$0.50 for the 580W models. Over a year of daily use, the electricity difference adds up to $50-$130 more. But the time savings — getting a gallon in 2.5 hours instead of 5.5 — may be worth the extra electricity cost for many users.
Build quality is good but not quite at the Megahome/H2o Labs level. The exterior is stainless steel, but some users report that the fit and finish isn’t as refined. The glass container is functional but thinner than the Megahome’s borosilicate carafe. The carbon post-filter is included but uses a simpler design. For the price, the CO-Z 1750W delivers excellent performance — it’s the distiller I recommend for users who prioritize speed and value over premium build quality.
4. VEVOR 1.1-Gallon Water Distiller — Best Budget Option
VEVOR has built a reputation for offering functional equipment at aggressive price points, and their water distiller follows that pattern. At $90-$120 on Amazon, the VEVOR is the most affordable distiller on this list that still uses 304 stainless steel internals and a glass collection container. The 750W heating element produces 1 gallon in approximately 4 hours — faster than the Megahome’s 5.5 hours but slower than the CO-Z 1750W’s 2.5 hours.
The VEVOR includes a dual temperature display, a timer function, and activated carbon post-filters. The 304 stainless steel boiling chamber and condensing coils are standard for this price range. The glass carafe holds 1.1 gallons (4 liters). The unit automatically shuts off when the cycle completes or when the boiling chamber runs dry. VEVOR includes 3 carbon filter packs in the box, with replacements available for approximately $8-$12 per 12-pack.
At $90-$120, the VEVOR removes the cost barrier for anyone curious about water distillation. The electricity cost per gallon is approximately $0.25-$0.40 at 750W — the lowest on this list. For someone who wants to try distilled water without committing $250+ to a premium model, the VEVOR is a sensible starting point. If you discover that distilled water fits your lifestyle, you can always upgrade to a Megahome or H2o Labs later.
The trade-off is build quality and longevity. VEVOR products are manufactured to a price point, and while the stainless steel internals are adequate, the overall fit, finish, and durability don’t match the Megahome or H2o Labs. Some users report issues with the seal between the boiling chamber and the condensing unit after 6-12 months of heavy use. The VEVOR also lacks UL approval. For occasional use or as an entry-level distiller, it’s a solid value. For daily, long-term use, the premium models justify their higher price.
5. Megahome MH943TWS White Enamel Distiller with Glass Carafe — Best Mid-Range
The MH943TWS is the same distiller as our top pick (MH943SBS) with one difference: the exterior body is white baked enamel over metal instead of stainless steel. The interior — boiling chamber, steam dome, condensing coils — is identical 304 stainless steel. The glass carafe, carbon post-filter, automatic shutoff, and 5.5-hour production cycle are all the same. The only functional difference is cosmetic, and it saves you $30-$60.
The MH943TWS retails for $200-$270 — a meaningful savings over the all-stainless MH943SBS. It carries the same UL approval, uses the same Megahome-exclusive components, and produces identical water quality. The white enamel exterior is durable and easy to clean, though it can show scuffs and stains more readily than stainless steel over years of use. For users who keep their distiller on a countertop, the white finish blends well with most kitchen appliances.
This is the model I recommend for most people. The stainless steel interior is what matters for water quality — the exterior is purely aesthetic. Saving $30-$60 for a white enamel exterior instead of stainless steel, while getting identical UL-approved internals and the same Megahome build quality, is a smart trade-off. The MH943TWS has been in production for over two decades with minimal design changes — a testament to the “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” philosophy that Megahome applies to their products.
6. CO-Z 750W 1.1-Gallon Water Distiller (Original Model) — Best for Quiet Operation
The CO-Z 750W is the original, lower-wattage version of the CO-Z distiller line. While the 1750W model prioritizes speed, the 750W model prioritizes quieter operation and lower electricity consumption. At 750 watts, it produces 1 gallon in approximately 3.5-4 hours — slower than the 1750W model but faster than the Megahome. The lower wattage means less heat generation, less fan noise, and a lower risk of tripping circuit breakers on shared electrical circuits.
The 750W model features the same 304 stainless steel boiling chamber and condensing coils, a 1.1-gallon glass collection container, and activated carbon post-filters. It lacks the dual temperature display and timer of the 1750W model — it’s a simpler, single-button operation with automatic shutoff. The streamlined design means fewer electronic components that could fail, which some users prefer for long-term reliability.
At $90-$110 on Amazon, the CO-Z 750W is priced similarly to the VEVOR but with a slightly better reputation for build quality and customer support. Electricity cost per gallon is approximately $0.25-$0.40 — identical to the VEVOR and significantly less than the 1750W CO-Z model. For users who run their distiller overnight or during work hours (when noise and speed don’t matter), the 750W model offers the best balance of price, quality, and operating cost.
The CO-Z 750W is available in multiple colors (white, red, gold, black) — a cosmetic option that no other distiller on this list offers. The color options don’t affect performance but allow you to match your kitchen decor. It’s a small detail that shows CO-Z understands their consumer market. For a budget-friendly distiller that runs quietly and efficiently, the 750W CO-Z is a solid choice.
7. PUREPLUS 750W Countertop Water Distiller — Best Compact Design
The PUREPLUS distiller is the most compact model on this list, designed for kitchens where counter space is at a premium. The unit is slightly smaller in footprint than the Megahome and CO-Z models while still producing a full 1-gallon batch per cycle. The 304 stainless steel boiling chamber and condensing coils are standard, and the glass collection container is included. At 750 watts, it produces 1 gallon in approximately 4 hours.
PUREPLUS positions their distiller as a straightforward, no-frills option. Single-button operation, automatic shutoff, activated carbon post-filter — the essentials without the dual temperature displays or timers of the CO-Z 1750W. The compact design and lighter weight (approximately 8 lbs) make it the most portable option on this list — useful if you want to move the distiller between kitchen and storage, or take it to a vacation home.
At $100-$130 on Amazon, the PUREPLUS sits in the mid-budget range. Build quality is comparable to the CO-Z 750W — functional and adequate for regular use, but not at the Megahome level. The glass container is standard thickness. Carbon post-filters are included (typically 3 packs) with replacements available for $8-$12 per 12-pack. For small kitchens, apartments, or anyone who values a smaller footprint, the PUREPLUS delivers standard distillation performance in a more compact package.
Quick Comparison: All 7 Water Distillers
Water Distillation: What You Need to Know
What Does Distillation Remove?
Distillation removes virtually everything that can’t evaporate at water’s boiling point (212°F / 100°C). This includes: heavy metals (lead, mercury, arsenic, cadmium), minerals (calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium), bacteria and viruses (killed by boiling, left behind in residue), nitrates and nitrites, fluoride, PFAS/PFOA/PFOS, pharmaceuticals, microplastics, and dissolved solids. The one category that requires additional treatment is VOCs — volatile organic compounds with boiling points near or below water’s. That’s why quality distillers include activated carbon post-filters to catch VOCs that carry over in steam.
Distillation vs. Reverse Osmosis
Both distillation and RO produce very pure water, but through different mechanisms. RO pushes water through a membrane that blocks contaminants; distillation evaporates water and leaves contaminants behind. Distillation is more thorough — it removes virtually 100% of dissolved solids, while RO typically removes 95-99%. Distillation also kills all biological contaminants through boiling, while RO relies on membrane pore size. However, RO is faster (on-demand water), produces less heat, uses less electricity per gallon, and can be plumbed into your water line for convenience. Distillation is a batch process that requires planning ahead.
Is Distilled Water Safe to Drink?
Yes. Distilled water is safe for drinking. The concern sometimes raised is that distilled water lacks minerals, but the minerals in drinking water contribute only a small fraction of your daily mineral intake — the vast majority comes from food. The WHO has noted that very low-mineral water may be less satisfying to drink and could theoretically affect mineral balance in people with poor diets, but for anyone eating a reasonably balanced diet, distilled water poses no health risk. Many people prefer to add a pinch of mineral drops or Himalayan salt to their distilled water for taste — this is a personal preference, not a health necessity.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to run a water distiller?
Electricity cost depends on your local rate and the distiller’s wattage. At the US average of $0.16/kWh: a 580W distiller costs approximately $0.51 per gallon (5.5 hours × 0.58 kW × $0.16). A 750W distiller costs approximately $0.48 per gallon (4 hours × 0.75 kW × $0.16). A 1750W distiller costs approximately $0.70 per gallon (2.5 hours × 1.75 kW × $0.16). For a household using 1 gallon per day, annual electricity cost ranges from $175 to $255. That’s more expensive than filtered water but far less than buying bottled distilled water ($1-$2 per gallon at the store).
How often do I need to clean a water distiller?
Clean the boiling chamber every 1-2 weeks, or after every 5-7 cycles. Mineral deposits (scale) accumulate on the heating element and chamber walls — the harder your water, the faster scale builds up. Cleaning is simple: fill the chamber with a mixture of water and white vinegar or citric acid, let it soak for several hours, then wipe clean. Replace the activated carbon post-filter sachets every 4-6 cycles (approximately every 1-2 weeks with daily use). Carbon filters cost $8-$15 for a 12-pack.
Can I distill well water?
Yes — distillation is one of the most effective treatments for well water because it removes virtually all contaminants regardless of type. Heavy metals, bacteria, nitrates, arsenic, iron, manganese, and dissolved solids are all left behind in the boiling chamber. However, if your well water has very high mineral content, you’ll need to clean the boiling chamber more frequently due to faster scale buildup. For well water with biological contamination, distillation provides both purification and disinfection in a single process.
Does distilled water leach minerals from your body?
This is a persistent myth with no scientific support. Distilled water does not “leach” minerals from your body. Your body’s mineral balance is regulated by your kidneys and hormones, not by the mineral content of your drinking water. The minerals in tap water (typically 100-500 ppm TDS) contribute a negligible fraction of your daily mineral needs compared to food. Drinking distilled water is no different from drinking very soft water or rainwater — both of which humans have consumed safely throughout history.
What’s the best way to store distilled water?
Store distilled water in glass containers whenever possible. Distilled water is slightly acidic (pH ~5.8) due to dissolved CO2 from the atmosphere, and acidic water can leach chemicals from plastic containers over time. Glass is inert and won’t affect water quality. If you must use plastic, choose food-grade BPA-free containers and don’t store for extended periods. Distilled water stored in glass at room temperature stays pure indefinitely — there are no contaminants or organisms to cause degradation.
The Bottom Line
The Megahome MH943SBS (or the more affordable MH943TWS white enamel version) is the distiller I recommend for anyone serious about water distillation. The UL approval, all-stainless-steel construction, glass carafe, and 30+ year manufacturing track record provide confidence that no other brand matches. For budget-conscious buyers, the CO-Z 750W or VEVOR at $90-$120 deliver functional distillation at a fraction of the premium price. And for speed-focused users, the CO-Z 1750W cuts production time nearly in half.
Distillation isn’t for everyone — it’s slow, energy-intensive, and produces flat-tasting water. But for users who want the most thorough purification available, who have specific contaminant concerns that other methods can’t fully address, or who simply want the peace of mind that comes from knowing their water contains nothing but H2O, a quality distiller is a worthwhile investment.
Related articles you might find helpful:
- Best Reverse Osmosis Systems — RO as an alternative to distillation
- Best Countertop Water Filters — countertop options that don’t require distillation
- Best Water Filters for Well Water — well water treatment alternatives
- Best Water Filters for PFAS Removal — if PFAS is your primary concern
- Best Water Filters for Fluoride Removal — fluoride-specific solutions