Trying to Pick Between the Waterdrop G3P800 and G5P500?
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.
💡 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.
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.
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 →
