Alkaline Water vs Bottled Water: Why Reverse Osmosis Systems Might Be the Smartest Choice
In recent years, water has become more than just a basic necessity—it’s now a health choice. From high-end bottled waters to advanced filtration systems, the options are endless. Among them, alkaline water and regular bottled water dominate the conversation. But what if there’s a third, better solution? With the rise of reverse osmosis systems that also produce alkaline water, many homeowners are rethinking their water choices.
In this post, we’ll compare alkaline water with regular bottled water, explore the role of reverse osmosis systems, and explain why the Smarths RO-1 could be your best option for clean, healthy, alkaline drinking water at home.
What Is Alkaline Water?
Alkaline water has a higher pH level than regular water—typically around 8 or 9 versus the neutral pH of 7 in standard tap or bottled water. It often includes beneficial minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Advocates believe that alkaline water helps neutralize acid in the body, improves hydration, and supports overall wellness.
Some of these benefits are anecdotal, but many people who drink alkaline water report improvements in energy levels, digestion, and hydration.
What Is Regular Bottled Water?
Regular bottled water may come from natural springs, purified municipal sources, or be simply filtered tap water. It’s convenient and widely available, but it usually has a neutral pH and lacks the additional minerals found in alkaline water. In many cases, it’s just repackaged tap water without significant health benefits.
Introducing Reverse Osmosis (RO) Water Systems
Reverse osmosis is one of the most advanced and reliable water purification methods. RO systems force water through a semipermeable membrane, removing up to 99% of contaminants, including chlorine, fluoride, lead, bacteria, and heavy metals. This process produces ultra-pure water, often used in laboratories and medical facilities.
The downside? Traditional RO systems also strip beneficial minerals, resulting in slightly acidic water with a flat taste.
That’s where alkaline-enhanced RO systems come in. These systems, like the Smarths RO-1, not only purify water through reverse osmosis, but also add essential minerals back into the water, raising the pH and delivering the benefits of alkaline water—all from the comfort of your kitchen. What Is Alkaline Water, and What Are the Benefits?
Comparing All Three: Alkaline Water, Bottled Water & RO Water
Feature | Bottled Water | Alkaline Bottled Water | Alkaline RO Water Smarths RO-1 |
---|---|---|---|
pH Level | Neutral (pH 7) | Alkaline (pH 8–9) | Alkaline (pH 8–9 after remineralization) |
Contaminants | Varies by brand | Filtered, but not always purified | Up to 99% removed via reverse osmosis |
Minerals | Some (varies) | Added or natural | Re-added after filtration |
Environmental Impact | High (plastic waste) | High (plastic waste) | Low (no bottles) |
Cost (long term) | High | Very high | Low |
Taste | Neutral or flat | Smooth, mineral-rich | Clean, fresh, mineral-enhanced |
Convenience | High (portable) | High | High (in-home system) |

Why Alkaline RO Systems Are a Better Long-Term Choice
If you’re serious about health and hydration, alkaline water has clear advantages. But regularly buying alkaline bottled water is expensive and wasteful. A high-quality alkaline reverse osmosis system like the Smarths RO-1 gives you all the benefits of both worlds:
✅ Advanced 4-stage filtration including RO membrane
✅ FLOWLOK™ leak detection for added protection
✅ SHOK BLOK™ valve to prevent water hammer damage
✅ NSF-certified parts and UV-resistant components
✅ Alkaline mineral cartridge to restore pH and improve taste
✅ Lead-free designer faucet for your kitchen
✅ Easy installation and filter replacement
With the Smarths RO-1, you no longer have to choose between purity and taste, or health and convenience. You get crystal-clear, great-tasting alkaline water, straight from your faucet.
Final Thoughts
While bottled water may be convenient and alkaline water may seem trendy, reverse osmosis systems with alkaline filters offer a long-term, sustainable, and healthier solution. Instead of buying bottle after bottle—or risking exposure to unfiltered tap water—investing in a Smarths RO-1 system gives you peace of mind and superior hydration every day.
Make the smart choice today. Experience the benefits of alkaline water with the power of reverse osmosis—with one affordable, elegant system designed for your home.