A Definitive Ranking Of Bottled Water Brands (Because They DO Taste Different)
There is no one that can convince us that bottled water has the same taste. It's nearly impossible to claim that because they have different minerals, electrolytes and pH balances.
For this reason, you likely have a brand that you gravitate to because of even the most subtle differences. We do, and we have strong opinions about it. Ahead, find our definitive ranking of popular bottled water brands.
9. Dasani
Dasani has always had a strange metallic taste to me. After a trip to the dentist, I learned that Dasani is one of the most acidic bottled waters on the shelves. No wonder it tastes so bitter. I'll pass—if I wanted to drink tap water, I'd fetch it from my sink for free.
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8. Aquafina
Much like Dasani, Aquafina has an aftertaste. Instead of bitterness, theirs is sweet. To no surprise, it's also considered one of the acidic waters. I've never reached for a bottle of Aquafina unless it's the only one sold. I only had to drink it in my lunchroom days, and it's an unpleasant reminder of school food.
7. Fiji
Fiji doesn't have a bad taste, but it is grossly overpriced. If you want a luxurious experience while drinking water, it's one of your best options. It has a more robust texture and glides down your throat like cream, which isn't my preference for water.
6. Smartwater
Smartwater is another expensive brand. I refuse to pay that much money for purified water. It has an okay taste, but I can still sense the filtration. That said, I wouldn't be angry if it was the only bottled water available. Hey, at least Zendaya endorses it.
5. Nestlé Pure Life
I'm noticing a pattern here. Most of my lowest-ranking waters—excluding Fiji—are purified. In my eyes, that phrase is synonymous with glorified tap water. Nestlé Pure Life is another one that fits this category but has the most neutral taste.
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4. Core
I enjoy Core. It has that thin texture I love. There's hardly any taste. I imagine this is what the purest form of water is like, probably because its pH is the same as the human body. It's a bit pricey, though.
3. Life Water
Life Water has a nearly identical taste and texture to Core. However, Life Water has cool, limited-edition bottle designs, so it receives extra points. Apparently, it's more basic than Smartwater and Nestlé, so no wonder it ranks high for purified water.
2. Poland Spring, Ice Mountain, Arrowhead and Deer Park
Finally, brands that I actually use in my everyday life. These bottled waters have a different name, depending on your region of the country. I go to the grocery store, and this is the pack I'm picking up. It has the refreshing, natural spring water taste—no frills with too many added minerals. And I might be crazy, but I feel like this water stays cold forever.
1. Evian
I savor Evian for special occasions. It is definitely one of the more costly brands. However, it's hard to resist because it tastes clean. It has that biting, crisp texture when it's ice-cold, and I can never get enough of how light it is. Evian is the most alkaline water on this list, so besides having a great taste, it will help prevent cavities.
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