Guides
Inline filter vs filtered shower head
Short answer: if you like the shower head you have, get an inline filter. If you want a new shower head anyway, either works. Here's how the two compare.
The two kinds of shower filters
A filtered shower head has the filter built into a new shower head, so you replace the one you have. An inline filter, like Lull, screws on between your shower arm and the shower head you already have.
Filtered shower head
- One piece, so it can look tidy.
- You give up your current shower head, its spray pattern and its style.
- The cartridge has to fit inside the head, so it's usually smaller.
- A smaller cartridge can mean less filter media and more frequent changes.
Inline filter
- Keeps the shower head you already like, including rain heads and handhelds with a standard US connection.
- Usually holds a larger cartridge, since it isn't limited by the shape of a shower head.
- Adds a few inches between the arm and the head, so check you have room.
- Easy to move to a new home or a different bathroom.
What to check before you buy either
- Fit. Most US shower arms use a standard 1/2-inch thread. Make sure the filter matches.
- What it actually filters. Look for specific layers (like KDF, carbon and vitamin C) instead of vague claims.
- Honest claims. No shower filter softens hard water. Skip any that say they do.
- Refills. Check the price and how easy it is to get a new cartridge every couple of months.
- Install. It should go on by hand in a few minutes, no tools.
How to choose
If you love your shower head, an inline filter is the easy choice. If you're replacing your shower head anyway and want one piece, a filtered head can work. Either way, the cartridge and the refill plan matter more than the shape.
Read next: how to install a shower filter or how often to change it.