We compared two squeeze-style water filters popular with hikers and backpackers: the Sawyer Squeeze paired with a Cnoc 1 litre bottle, and the LifeStraw Peak Series collapsible squeeze bottle.
What we looked at
Stated filtration claims, lifetime capacity, weight, how each can be used, and price.
The verdict
If you want the stated 100% microplastics removal and a filter listed for up to 100,000 gallons in a system weighing under 5 oz, the Sawyer Squeeze is the pick, though it costs more on these listings. If you'd rather spend less on a compact bottle you can drink from, squeeze into a pot, or use as a straw, the LifeStraw Peak Series is the more versatile and cheaper option.
States 100% microplastics removal and up to 100,000 gallons in a system under 5 oz, but costs more than the LifeStraw.
The cheaper, more versatile pick: bottle, squeeze or straw use, with a stated leak-proof build, but no lifetime capacity in the listing highlights.
Sawyer Squeeze Water Filtration System with Cnoc Premium 1 Litre Bottle — Longest Stated Lifespan
Intended for: Marketed as a lightweight, portable squeeze water filter that removes bacteria, protozoa, cysts, sediment and 100% of microplastics, paired with a soft, foldable Cnoc 1 litre bottle for outdoor adventures, travel and emergency preparation.
What we liked
- Listing states removal of 100% of microplastics
- Reusable and easy to clean, stated for up to 100,000 gallons
- Whole system weighs less than 5 oz, with a soft, foldable 1 litre bottle
- Includes a cleaning clutch and cleaning piston, with a BPA- and PVC-free TPU bottle
- Every squeeze unit is stated to be individually tested three times
Worth knowing
- Costs more than the LifeStraw Peak Series on these listings
- The listing doesn't mention using the filter as a drinking straw or as a storage system
Best for
- Backpackers who want a light, reusable filter with a high stated lifetime capacity
- Buyers who want a soft, foldable bottle they can flatten in a pack
- Anyone who wants the stated 100% microplastics removal
Not ideal for
- Buyers looking for the lowest price
- Anyone who wants a filter that also works as a straw
LifeStraw Peak Series Collapsible Squeeze Bottle Water Filter System (1L) — Best Value
Intended for: Marketed as an ultra-compact collapsible squeeze bottle filter system for trail running, through-hiking, travel, cycling and fishing, protecting against bacteria, parasites, microplastics, silt, sand and cloudiness.
What we liked
- Cheaper than the Sawyer Squeeze on these listings
- Stated protection against 99.999999% of bacteria and 99.999% of parasites, including Giardia and Cryptosporidium
- Re-engineered membrane and custom backwash accessory for better performance against sand and silt
- Versatile: use it as a bottle, squeeze into cooking containers, drink through it like a straw, or remove the filter to use it as storage
- Listed as extra durable, with 2x thicker premium materials and a leak-proof design
Worth knowing
- Lists 99.999% microplastics removal against the Sawyer's stated 100%
- No lifetime filtration capacity stated in the listing highlights, unlike the Sawyer's 100,000 gallons
Best for
- Trail runners, cyclists and hikers who want a compact bottle-style filter
- Buyers who want a lower price and multiple ways to use the filter
- Anyone who values a stated leak-proof, extra-durable build
Not ideal for
- Anyone who specifically wants a stated 100,000 gallon lifetime capacity
- Buyers who want the stated 100% microplastics removal
