Aquasana AQ-5300+ Max Flow vs Express Water RO5 — Which Should You Buy?

Side-by-side comparison of Aquasana AQ-5300+ Max Flow and Express Water RO5. We compare specs, performance, and value to help you decide.

Updated 2026-03-09 Independently reviewed
Aquasana AQ-5300+ Max Flow

Aquasana AQ-5300+ Max Flow

8.8/10
$149 /one-time
VS
Express Water RO5

Express Water RO5

8.6/10
$249 /one-time

Feature Comparison

Feature Aquasana AQ-5300+ Max Flow Express Water RO5
Type Carbon + prefilter 5-stage RO
Capacity 800 gallons 75 GPD
Flow Rate 0.72 GPM —
Prefilter Sediment —
Removes Lead, PFOA, chlorine Lead, arsenic, fluoride
Certification NSF —
Filter Life 6 months —
Warranty 1 year 1 year
Stages — 5 (+ UV/alkaline options)
Tank — 3.2 gallon
UV — Optional
Alkaline — Optional

Aquasana AQ-5300+ Max Flow

Pros

  • ✓Higher capacity
  • ✓Prefilter for sediment
  • ✓Faster flow
  • ✓Claryum technology
  • ✓NSF certified
  • ✓No electricity
  • ✓Easy filter change

Cons

  • ✗More expensive than 5200
  • ✗Doesn't remove fluoride
  • ✗Filter cost

Express Water RO5

Pros

  • ✓5-stage RO
  • ✓UV optional
  • ✓Alkaline optional
  • ✓Removes 99%
  • ✓Fast flow
  • ✓3.2-gal tank
  • ✓Good for large families

Cons

  • ✗Add-ons increase cost
  • ✗Standard waste ratio
  • ✗Bulky under sink

Our Verdict

Aquasana AQ-5300+ Max Flow

The best under-sink filter for higher flow and sediment-heavy water.

Special Deal Available — See Offer

Express Water RO5

The best under-sink RO with upgrade options for UV and alkaline water.

Limited Offer — Check Today's Price

Our Methodology

We test each under-sink filter for contaminant reduction, installation ease, and long-term cost. No manufacturer has editorial influence.

Related Comparisons