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Waterdrop G3P800 vs G5P500: Which One’s Right for You? (And When to Go Bigger)
Trying to Pick Between the Waterdrop G3P800, G5P500, and X12?
You’re not alone, this is one of the most common head-to-head comparisons in the home water filtration space.
Both systems are tankless, space-saving, and give you crisp, clean water without the hassle of bottled delivery. But they’re built for slightly different users, and one comes with a few serious upgrades.
We’ve installed and reviewed both — here’s how they really compare, and when it might make sense to go even bigger.
Heads up: This post contains affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you click and buy at no extra cost to you. We only recommend systems we’ve tested, researched, or would actually install ourselves.
Waterdrop G3P800 vs G5P500: What You’re Actually Getting
| Feature | G3P800 | G5P500 |
|---|---|---|
| Flow Rate | 800 GPD | 500 GPD |
| Drain Ratio | 3:1 | 2:1 |
| Filtration Stages | 10-stage RO | 7-stage RO |
| Faucet | Smart faucet w/ TDS monitor | Smart faucet w/ alerts |
| Certifications | NSF 42, 53, 58, 372 | NSF 372 |
| Price | $$$ | $$ |
| Ideal For | Families, high-use kitchens | Small households, tight budgets |
| Install Level | Moderate DIY | Moderate DIY |
G3P800: More Flow, More Filtration, More Peace of Mind
The Waterdrop G3P800 is our top pick for anyone who wants:
- Faster fill-ups at the sink
- Better waste-to-water ratio (3:1 efficiency)
- More comprehensive filtration, including chlorine, fluoride, heavy metals, and microplastics
- NSF certifications across the board
- A real-time TDS display so you can actually see the results
If you’re serious about water quality and use your kitchen daily, this is the better investment long term.
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10/07/2025 04:12 am GMT
G5P500: Clean Water at a Lower Cost
The G5P500 is perfect for:
- Homeowners on a tighter budget
- Couples or smaller households
- DIYers who want a solid tankless system without paying for premium flow or smart faucet tech
You’ll still get excellent 7-stage filtration and the same sleek, under-sink design — just at a more affordable price point.
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
10/07/2025 05:25 am GMT
Want More Power? Step Up to the Waterdrop X12
If you want the absolute best — high volume, remineralization, and next-gen monitoring — the Waterdrop X12 is in a league of its own.
Here’s what you’re getting:
- 11-stage RO filtration with pH+ remineralization
- 1200 GPD flow rate
- Smart dual-outlet faucet with real-time monitoring
- Built-in booster pump for high performance
- Designed for large families, smart homes, or anyone who wants the top-tier system
It’s more expensive, but for high-demand households, it’s worth every dollar.
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
10/07/2025 05:56 am GMT
Final Take: Which One Should You Buy?
Here’s the bottom line:
- Go with the G5P500 if you want a clean, budget-friendly RO system that gets the job done.
- Choose the G3P800 if you want better flow, smarter monitoring, and next-level efficiency.
- Upgrade to the X12 if you want to future-proof your water setup and don’t mind spending more for the best.
Need help installing it? We’ve got that covered too.
How to Install an Under Sink Water Filter →
If clean water’s on your upgrade list, our deep dive into do reverse osmosis systems actually work? What to know before you buy.
Want to know if Reverse Osmosis or Carbon Filters are the way to go? Our breakdown on reverse osmosis vs carbon filter: which water system is right for you? can help you choose the right system.
