In my review article on the best reverse osmosis system for 2015, I mainly compared apec vs home master. What is not included is comparison between the iSpring rcc7 vs apec roes-50, which is what I will be reviewing today. For readers interested to know what are their differences, the comparison chart and the write up below should help you in your purchase consideration.
iSpring RCC7 vs Apec comparison chart
To make things easier, I did this comparison chart so that you can understand their difference with a simple glance.
| Brand | TDS | Waste Water Ratio | Price | Made in |
iSpring RCC7 |
12 ppm | 2:1 | Under $300 | China |
APEC ROES-50 |
5 ppm | 3:1 | Under 300 | USA |
Water Quality
Both iSpring and APEC has similar water quality when measured in terms of TDS. On average, APEC can achieve around 5 ppm while iSpring is about 10-12ppm. At this level, the difference isn’t too significant for me to say APEC has a better filtration system. For normal uses, I would say both systems can show improvements in removing TDS from your water.
Price
Given the water quality is about equal, the next important thing is the price and that is where iSpring has the advantage. Again, it is a slight one as the difference is around USD30+. The iSpring also comes with a brushed nickel faucet that is worth around USD40. So, your total saving from buying the iSpring is about USD70-80.
Water wastage
One of the biggest difference between the two reverse osmosis system is the amount of water needed to get 1 galleon of filtered water. In APEC’s case, it is around 3:1 ratio. For iSpring RCC7, the ratio is smaller: around 2:1. Relative to each other, APEC’s system uses more water and is more wasteful.
Country of manufacture
I know some readers have a preference for buying things made in America. Frankly, I don’t blame them. Having been to China a couple of times during business triips, it is hard to ignore the kind of business practices that are being engaged in the name of cost cutting. You never know what goes on beyond the making of these reverse osmosis system and whether any material or processes has been short changed. I am not saying iSpring RCC7 is an inferior product because current reviews show otherwise. However, if you want a peace of mind, then at least you know that the APEC is made in USA while iSpring is in China.
Conclusion
Both iSpring RCC7 and APEC are great reverse osmosis systems. In terms of water quality, APEC comes out slightly ahead but costs more and has more water wastage. However, do note the iSpring is made in China so that might be a turn off for some. Unfortunately, both RO systems do not have remineralization built into their flow so you probably need to buy a remineralizer cartridge