Katadyn Vario Multi Flow Water Microfilter

it's ok. sometimes it'll leak out from middle if pump too fast, this can be dangerous if you're in cold conditions. Also if using in below freezing temps water will freeze over the ceramic filter allowing no water to pass through and a lot more leakage from sides. This is the only water filter I've ever used so have nothing to compair it to.

I love this filter, it has all the features you could want in a filter and is very user friendly. If you read the instructions and do the maintenence that is required it will last a long time with no issues. The things you need to do to maintain it are simple like lubricating the O rings and disinfecting it when you get home from a hiking trip are common sense stuff. You may have to scrub the ceramic filter when out in the field after heavy use in high sediment water (not rocket science). I bought an extra carbon kit to replace the old carbon when the water starts to taste funny or smell, that cost about $10 dollars. This filter is easy to use and can clean up to 500 gallons of water before replacing the main filter core (about $30 dollars). Another thing to remember is that Katadyn is a great company, if you have any issues with your filter give them a call and they will help you out. Having the versatility to switch from one filter media to two depending on your water quality is a nice option and you get more bang for your buck with this unit at $80 dollars for 500 gallons of purified drinking water!

I ordered the water filter and much to my dismay the little tip that holds the tygon tube was broken. So I tried to get the part from the filer company but they did not have it as its from Switzerland. So I completed the online return and replace form with Amazon and they emailed the link to find the docs to print out and include in return box and I ordered a replacement, no charge, unless I dont return the original within 30 days, which I have since sent. GREAT. The water filter was sent to Malawi, where it is truly needed and reportedly works great. The replacement came VERY quickly, in time to catch its flight with a friend. So thanks the return system works very well.

This pump only worked once. On my second trip the intake connection had broke off. The filter was packed well with no heavy objects around it, but broke anyway. Save your money on this one. Spend the extra cash on something more durable.

Spent 12 days at Philmont and used the Vario several times. It was quick and didn't clog. We had 2 other filters that did not work as well/quickly. The Vario is bullkier than others but it works.