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Platypus GravityWorks Review

A fast and easy to use gravity filter perfect for small groups
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platypus gravityworks backpacking water filter review
Low maintenance and easy to use for most outdoor adventures.
Credit: Amber King
Price:  $135 List
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Manufacturer:   Platypus
By Amber King ⋅ Review Editor  ⋅  Mar 21, 2024
75
OVERALL
SCORE


RANKED
#3 of 23
  • Water Quality - 20% 8.0
  • Durability & Maintenance - 20% 7.0
  • Treatment Time - 15% 9.0
  • Weight & Packability - 15% 5.0
  • Ease of Set Up - 15% 7.0
  • Ease of Filtration - 15% 9.0

Our Verdict

The Platypus GravityWorks filtration system is fast and straightforward to use. We tested the four-liter version of this product and found it to be one of the most versatile and reliable systems in our lineup. Designed for base camp use, it has a plethora of applications. Not only can it filter 4L of water in under five minutes, but it doubles as a shower or handwash station. While most gravity filters need to hang, you can filter water on a slope or a rock when no trees or shrubs are around. It filters out both bacteria pathogens and protozoa, making it a great option to use throughout North America, where these are prominent water-borne pathogens. This is our favorite gravity filter because of its durability and versatility. To see how it stacks up versus the competition, check out our review of the best backpacking water filters.
REASONS TO BUY
Fast
Easy
Hands-free filtration
Large volume
Storage
REASONS TO AVOID
A little expensive
Can't gather from shallow sources
Clogs with heavy sediment
Editor's Note: This review was modified on March 21, 2024, to include new recommendations for similar filtration systems as well as new perspectives on value and buying advice.

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Bottom Line A low maintenance, easy-to-use gravity filter that works well for everybody on the trailThis lifetime guaranteed product is easy to use on the trailA solid option for collapsible bottle filtration during fast and light backcountry missionsThe best chemical treatment option that will kill all pathogens when given enough timeLightweight and easy to use, these tablets can be used as an emergency backup to regular treatment
Rating Categories Platypus GravityWorks Sawyer Squeeze LifeStraw Peak Squeeze Aquamira Treatment... Potable Aqua Purifi...
Water Quality (20%)
8.0
9.0
8.0
5.0
2.0
Durability & Maintenance (20%)
7.0
6.0
6.0
10.0
10.0
Treatment Time (15%)
9.0
9.0
6.0
2.0
2.0
Weight & Packability (15%)
5.0
8.0
8.0
9.0
10.0
Ease of Set Up (15%)
7.0
7.0
9.0
8.0
9.0
Ease of Filtration (15%)
9.0
8.0
9.0
9.0
10.0
Specs Platypus GravityWorks Sawyer Squeeze LifeStraw Peak Squeeze Aquamira Treatment... Potable Aqua Purifi...
Measured Weight (entire kit) 11.5 oz 5.7 oz 3.8 oz 3.0 oz 2.3 oz
Removes Particulates (sediment, microplastics)? Yes Yes Yes No No
Effective Against Viruses? No No No Yes Yes
Effective Against Chemicals? No No No No No
Effective Against Heavy Metals? No No No No No
Effective Against Bacteria? Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Effective Against Protozoa (Giardia, Cryptosporidium)? Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes (Giardia = yes; Crypto = no)
Type of Filter/Purifier Gravity filter Squeeze, in-line, on-the-go Squeeze Chemical treatment Chemical treatment
Filter Media or Active Ingredient Hollow fiber Hollow fiber Hollow-core membrane microfilter Chlorine dioxide Iodine and Tetraglycine Hydroperiodide
Filter Pore Size (Advertised) 0.2 microns 0.1 microns 0.2 microns N/A N/A
Number of Liters/Gallons per Lifetime (Advertised) 1500 L / 396 gal 378,541 L / 100,000 gal 2000 L / 500 gal 114 L / 30 gal (per package) 25 L / 6.6 gal

Our Analysis and Test Results

The GravityWorks comes with clearly labeled "clean" and "dirty" bags that each hold 4 liters for a total storage capacity of 8 liters. It comes in both a 4L and 2L size. If you seek a quick and easy-to-use filter where setup time and a few extra ounces aren't a big concern, consider this favorite. It filters quickly and easily. It is best used with clear water sources and when traveling with groups, and it is among our favorite all-around options for its fast, reliable performance and the deliciously clean water it produces from the most disgusting sources.

Performance Comparison


platypus gravityworks backpacking water filter review - this filtration system is easy to use and can turn gross water into...
This filtration system is easy to use and can turn gross water into drinkable water.
Credit: Amber King

Water Quality


If you're seeking fresh, clean water free of most water-borne pathogens, the Gravity Works 4L will meet your needs. Loaded with a hollow fiber filter with an absolute pore size of 0.2 microns, it'll filter out all bacteria and protozoan lifeforms, including giardia and cryptosporidium. It does not filter out viruses so if you plan on traveling to countries where they might be an issue, consider a different option.


In our tests, we loaded this filter up with everything from clear to stinky, murky water. It does excellently when the water is clear and does get rid of smells. However, when testing it with high sediment (like all filters in our tests), it did clog easily after just 2L. As a result, this filter does best with clear water, or you will need a pre-filter. See the tip below.

platypus gravityworks backpacking water filter review - a look at water quality after gathering from a turbid river.
A look at water quality after gathering from a turbid river.
Credit: Amber King

If you're planning on visiting an area where your water source will likely contain substantial amounts of sediment (like the Colorado River), it's important to note that all filters will struggle. Make sure you pre-filter water that is brown or heavy with silt or sediment. Put it into a bag to allow it to settle (without disturbing it), then decant the clear water off the top, leaving the heavier sediment at the bottom.

Durability and Maintenance


This filter seems to be well-constructed and quite durable. The plastic overlay offers resistance to punctures and holes. When pulling at the seams, the welded plastic stayed intact and did not tear apart easily. The filter itself is a little fragile and requires care. The hollow fiber design can easily be stowed in its reservoir bags for a little extra cushion. Also, care should be taken to ensure that it is not frozen, which will damage the fine fibers inside.


In terms of maintenance, the filter is pretty easy to maintain. It has a lifespan of 1500 liters, and cleaning is super simple. If you notice that the flow begins to slow, flip it the other way, fill up the "clean" bag, and allow 4L to flush it out. When finished, flip it back over.


The filter also has a natural way of telling you that it's no good anymore. When the backflush doesn't work, it means that the natural fibers inside are clogged with captured material, and it's time to buy a new filter. Overall, maintenance is way easier than taking the whole thing apart and scrubbing it clean. That said, if you're adventuring in a place with lots of sediment like the Colorado River, or anywhere in the desert for that matter, be sure to let the sediment settle out before filtering; if you don't, this will clog the filter, leaving you in a predicament that could be dangerous.

platypus gravityworks backpacking water filter review - we see the solid connections here and the backflushing system above...
We see the solid connections here and the backflushing system above. When the filter gets clogged from lots of sediment (which it will), simply detach it and flip the filter to clear it of clogs.
Credit: Amber King

The durability and construction of this product seem to be bomber. While we didn't experience any issues, we must note that online, a few users reported that the bag tore at the connection between the nylon clips when filled. We tried this over and over again to see if it would tear and didn't observe any problems.

Treatment Time


It treats water very quickly once set up. We tested the rate of flow over three trial periods, and the GravityWorks proved to have one of the most consistent time trials, filtering one liter of water in a mere 52 seconds on average.


While this is a little slower than the advertised 1.75L/min, we are super happy to know that when the bag gets to a low volume, the flow rate is constant, whereas other gravity filters slowed way down. The convenient location of the outlet at the bottom of the bag sucks up every last drop of water. This kind of output makes it perfect for use as a base camp filter. You can fill it with water and have 4L filtered in just under 5 minutes! Both bags have an easy-to-use clip so they can hang. This feature allows you to access and pour water for a variety of uses. Fast, easy, and convenient. No need to pump or suck.

platypus gravityworks backpacking water filter review - fast and convenient.
Fast and convenient.
Credit: Amber King

Weight and Packability


This is a lightweight setup that won't take up too much space in your backpack. Weighing 11.45 oz and taking up about as much room as a Nalgene bottle, it suits long backpacking missions where going ultralight isn't a huge concern.


Throw it in along with a bag of wine, and you'll be just fine hiking up the steeper trails. Of the gravity filters tested, it's one of the lightest and is comparatively lighter than the hand pumps we've tested. This weight takes into account the two bags (clean and dirty), hoses, filter, and the stuff sack into which it easily packs.

platypus gravityworks backpacking water filter review
Credit: Amber King

Ease of Set Up


Advertised as a water filter that's perfect for larger groups, it's also an excellent option for the solo through hiker. While it's not as easy to set up as other filters that you can gather water on the go, the gravity filters tested, the GravityWorks, don't have many moving parts and are pretty easy to use. The only downside is that you have to be able to scoop up your water. So, this filter isn't a great option if your water source is a shallow puddle. Lakes, rivers, streams, and the like are just perfect.


Offering a two-bag setup, it allows you to store clean and dirty water on the go. If you know you're going to encounter a section of trail without water, load up the "dirty" side as an auxiliary reservoir.

Scooping out water to treat with the GravityWorks.
Scooping out water to treat with the GravityWorks.
Filling the dirty bag of the Platypus GravityWorks. It is a much...
Filling the dirty bag of the Platypus GravityWorks. It is a much simpler and less work intensive process than pumping.
All it takes for this filter to work is for the dirty bag to be...
All it takes for this filter to work is for the dirty bag to be elevated over the clean bag. This can consist of sitting on a rock, hanging from a tree, or even just holding up the bag.

When you're ready to filter, find a place where you can hang or lay down the "clean" bladder that is a little higher than the filtered end. Unlike other gravity filters, you don't need a huge difference in height between the clean and dirty reservoir to allow filtration due to the outlet's location in the bottom right corner.

platypus gravityworks backpacking water filter review - gathering water typically requires a flowing source.
Gathering water typically requires a flowing source.
Credit: Amber King

Attach the connection end to the "clean" reservoir, connect it to the filter, and connect that end to the dirty bladder. Make sure that the zip closures that can be difficult to zip in cold conditions are closed and get ready for filtration.

platypus gravityworks backpacking water filter review - find a tree branch or the like to suspend the bags from.
Find a tree branch or the like to suspend the bags from.
Credit: Amber King

Ease of Filtration


Like all gravity filters, this part is super easy. There's no pumping or sucking required. Unclamp the hose and wait for beautiful, clean, fresh water. What's more, you don't have to use the "clean" reservoir provided. The adaptor on the end of the hose is pretty small and will easily fit into the neck of any bottle or the body of any hydration bladder. You just have to hold it in place.


This system will maintain a substantial rate of flow, even when it gets pretty empty. If hung up, it will shift under the weight of the water as it trickles to the corner, sipping up every last bit of water collected. Overall, filtering water with this setup is super easy. Once the clean reservoir is loaded up, there is a cap you can put on it to use as a storage reservoir. It can also be clipped up as a handwashing station or even a refreshing shower on a hot day.

platypus gravityworks backpacking water filter review - filtration with the platypus gravity doesn't require a huge height...
Filtration with the Platypus Gravity doesn't require a huge height differential.
Credit: Amber King

Should You Buy the Platypus GravityWorks 4L?


The Platypus GravityWorks 4L is an exceptional product that offers incredible value. The GravityWorks can filter a lot of water quickly, is easy to set up, and requires no effort to produce high-quality drinking water, making it our favorite choice for backcountry travel. When you consider that the filter cartridges are rather inexpensive to replace and will provide about 1,500 refills for your Nalgene bottle or the equivalent, that's a great option for those looking to get a solid return on their investment.

platypus gravityworks backpacking water filter review - we spot a rainbow after a big storm. here we backpack into the...
We spot a rainbow after a big storm. Here we backpack into the remote areas of Peru. With a gravity filter in hand like the Platypus, it makes gathering water easy.
Credit: Amber King

What Other Backpacking Water Filters Should You Consider?


In our humble opinion, the Platypus GravityWorks filter is the very best gravity filter available; it gets rid of all microorganisms but doesn't protect against viruses. While it functions quite well to get many people hydrated in a base-camp style, it is also super useful for the solo traveler who might have a little extra room in their pack. If you're interested in other gravity systems, check out the Katadyn Gravity BeFree 6L that is available for a similar price but does not include a clean water reservoir. If you're after the ease of filtration within a simple and functional design, check out the LifeStraw Peak Gravity 3L, which offers less capacity at a more affordable price. And if you want the best gravity filtration option for a group, check out the MSR AutoFlow XL.

Amber King