Anyone looking for safe, pure, and reliable drinking water will quickly find themselves looking at Coldstream filters. The two most popular models are the CTO Plus and the CTO Max . But what exactly distinguishes these two filters?
In this blog we explain it clearly and simply.

What makes Coldstream filters special?

Coldstream filters combine advanced ceramic with activated carbon . This ensures:

• microplastics and fine particles are removed

• bacteria and cysts are effectively stopped

• chemicals such as chlorine, pesticides and heavy metals are reduced

• retain healthy minerals

This way you get clean water without it being "filtered out".

CTO Plus: optimal basic protection

Designed for daily use, the CTO Plus offers broad protection against the most common contaminants.

Key Features

• Filtration: ceramic + activated carbon

• Capacity: ± 2,840 liters (approximately 6 months)

• Flow rate: ± 2.5 liters/minute

• Removes: microplastics, bacteria, cysts and chemical contaminants

• Certifications: NSF/ANSI 42 , 53 and P231

Conclusion

An excellent choice for households that want safe and clean water without a specific need for virus reduction.

CTO Max: same filter, extra protection against viruses

The CTO Max offers the same filtration technology and performance as the Plus — with one key added benefit:

👉 The CTO Max removes viruses. The CTO Plus doesn't.

Key Features

• Filtration: ceramic + activated carbon (same construction as the Plus)

• Capacity: ± 3,000 liters (approximately 6 months)

• Flow rate: ± 2.5 liters/minute

• Removes: microplastics, bacteria, cysts, chemical contaminants and viruses

• Certifications: NSF/ANSI 42 , 53 and P231

Conclusion

The CTO Max is ideal if you want maximum security, or if virus reduction is important for your family.

CTO Plus vs CTO Max — clear comparison