Latest news with #UrbanCompany
Mint
20 hours ago
- Business
- Mint
India's next 10-minute delivery? Domestic workers on demand
Mumbai: After transforming how India orders groceries and meals, the 10-minute delivery model is now knocking on an unlikely door: on-demand domestic labour. Startups are racing to dispatch cooks, cleaners, and other household workers within minutes of a booking. Backed by marquee investors, these ventures are betting that urban India's hunger for speed and convenience will extend beyond products to people-powered services. Snabbit, a Mumbai-based startup, has raised $25.5 million across three rounds in just five months, according to data from Tracxn. Its latest $19 million fundraise was led by Lightspeed. While the company hasn't disclosed its valuation, investor interest is surging—fuelled by parallels with quick commerce and a $5 billion home services market expected to quadruple by 2032, according to Zion Market Research. Read this | Betting on speed: Can fashion startups survive the quick commerce gamble? Urban Company, a larger rival in the home services space, is preparing for an initial public offering (IPO). Gurugram-based Pronto, still in its seed stage, is reportedly courting more capital after a $2 million round led by Bain Capital Ventures. Yet behind the breakneck growth lies a more uncomfortable question: what happens when the 10-minute delivery model is applied not to groceries—but to people? A different kind of platform Snabbit's model breaks from the typical gig platform playbook. Unlike typical gig platforms that merely connect users with workers, Snabbit controls the entire supply chain—recruiting, training, assigning, and paying its workforce, according to co-founder and CEO Aayush Agarwal. 'This isn't a model where someone picks up a gig and disappears. If someone leaves, they're exiting the platform entirely," he said. Snabbit employs over 600 'experts"—the company's term for domestic workers—who operate in tight, hyperlocal clusters. Workers typically walk 300 metres between jobs, though some borrow e-bikes to stretch their reach to 800 metres. Service charges range from ₹169 to ₹499 for a four-hour booking, significantly higher than Urban Company's ₹49 entry point for its InstaHelp service. The platform's pitch: urgency. Unlike Urban Company, which emphasizes subscriptions and predictable demand, Snabbit is positioning itself as a high-speed backup solution for when household help doesn't show up. 'People are largely insensitive to pricing when it comes to on-demand services, because it's not a daily-use case," said Agarwal. Inside the model: flexibility, but with limits Snabbit does not explicitly classify its workers as gig workers or employees, but its operational model leans gig-style. Workers are not on formal payrolls, but they do receive personal life, health, and accident insurance, and, in some cases, family coverage, two workers based in Mumbai told Mint. Earnings vary widely. According to Snabbit, workers can earn over ₹10,000 per month for four-hour daily shifts and upwards of ₹40,000 for 12-hour shifts, with bonuses on top. Workers Mint spoke with corroborated this range, reporting monthly incomes between ₹12,000 and ₹40,000 depending on shift duration and location. These, however, are gross figures and do not account for unpaid waiting time, idle hours between bookings, or occasional cancellations. Part-time workers typically reported earning ₹12,000-18,000 a month, while full-time workers in high-demand zones cited take-home pay of ₹35,000–40,000. While not universal, such earnings appear achievable for consistently active workers operating in dense, high-volume micro-markets. Because Snabbit operates on an urgency-driven model, earnings are closely tied to availability and responsiveness. Workers active during peak hours and based near clusters of demand are far more likely to hit the upper end of the pay spectrum. Those in lower-density areas—or unable to accept jobs quickly—see lower and more erratic incomes. Platform stickiness and user behaviour Snabbit says it has onboarded over 25,000 customers, who use the service roughly three times per month on average. Retention rates, the company claims, are on par with consumer internet platforms like Swiggy or Zepto—high benchmarks in the Indian app economy. Snabbit is betting that these urgent, last-minute use cases will give it a foothold in the broader home services ecosystem—spanning cooks, drivers, and nannies. Still, the model comes with familiar platform risks. One of the biggest challenges for service marketplaces is disintermediation—where customers start hiring workers directly, bypassing the platform. Urban Company has flagged this as a key concern in its IPO draft papers. Snabbit claims its full-stack approach reduces this risk. 'If a client books a worker directly, that worker risks losing access to our platform and guaranteed payout," said Agarwal. 'It's not in their interest to go offline." That deterrent may be real, especially if workers see the platform as a stable income source. Rahul Taneja, partner at Lightspeed (an investor in Snabbit and Zepto), argues that trust and unpredictability also act as bulwarks. 'Disintermediation has happened when tasks have been infrequent and predictable, like servicing an AC twice a year. With high frequency needs that change every time—cleaning today, chopping veggies tomorrow—a platform serves you better than a specific individual," Taneja said. 'Trust and safety matters in this business. There is a service professional whom you're letting into your home. A platform that assures safety makes all the difference," he said. Agarwal expresses caution about subscription models for home services, viewing them as better suited to predictable, daily-use cases, and a potential drag on pricing. 'The moment you shift from on-demand to subscription, your rates effectively halve, since that's more of a daily-use case. But by aggregating demand and optimising through our supply network, we can command a premium—offering the promise that we can reach your house within 10 minutes, whenever you want," said Agarwal. In contrast, Urban Company embraces subscriptions and service bundles as a way to deliver better value and deepen customer loyalty. Safety, support, and stress points Snabbit uses an internal CRM, eKYC process, and custom screening system to verify and onboard workers. Its app includes an SOS button that alerts a field operations team, which the company says typically reaches the worker within 5–7 minutes. But as with any speed-driven platform, the question of worker welfare remains. 'India is increasingly becoming a testing ground for what we call blood and sweat aggregator companies, platforms that extract maximum labour for minimal compensation, with little regard for social security, safety, or job stability," said Shaik Salauddin, National General Secretary of the Indian Federation of App-Based Transport Workers (IFAT). 'These businesses thrive on hyper-commodified labour, where workers are treated as disposable tools to meet tight delivery timelines and rising customer expectations," he added. Read this | Labour union files complaint against IPO-bound Zepto over breach of promises The broader market hasn't been kind to speed-at-any-cost models. Zepto shuttered its 10-minute cafe vertical due to operational stress. Zomato shut down 15-minute deliveries after four months, citing weak demand. Whether domestic services can scale where food and coffee struggled remains to be seen. A calculated entry Still, investors like Elevation Capital, an early backer of Snabbit, see long-term potential. 'Many of these segments remain largely unorganised and informal but have a hyperlocal demand pattern," said Manish Advani, principal at Elevation. 'Snabbit started with a deep pain point, when your regular help doesn't show up. This acts as a Trojan horse to enter and serve broader, and frequent needs over time." Also read | Mint Explainer: Will Karnataka's new 'welfare' mandate mess up the gig economy? In the short term, Snabbit is betting on the messiness of urban life—last-minute cancellations, no-shows, and sudden gaps—as its opportunity. Whether it builds a durable platform or simply a clever workaround may depend on how well it can protect workers, serve users, and survive the costs of speed.
Time of India
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Urban Company's new ad presents a candid look at a bias hidden in plain sight
HighlightsFundamental has launched the fourth installment of Urban Company's influential 'Dignity Of Labour' platform, which challenges perceptions around blue-collar versus white-collar migration in modern day India. Neeraj Kanitkar, co-founder of Fundamental, emphasized the importance of authenticity by engaging a dialect consultant and carefully selecting actors to reflect the true backgrounds of the characters. Tarun Menon, senior director of marketing at Urban Company, stated that the new film aims to explore the unconscious hierarchies that prioritize one migrant's progress over another's, promoting equal recognition for all professionals. Fundamental has brought the fourth instalment of Urban Company 's influential ' Dignity Of Labour ' platform. Crafted with the restraint of realism, the new short film unobtrusively but firmly challenges perceptions around blue-collar v/s white collar migration in modern day India. At a time when the global narrative around migration is undergoing intense scrutiny, the inherent 'blind-spotting' of waged, manual labour brings the conversation closer home. Juxtaposing the aspirational framing of a white-collar move from small town to big city against the involuntary bias surrounding blue-collar migrants. The film exposes the unspoken double standards around which one career or profession or indeed one human is subconsciously considered 'better' than the other. Neeraj Kanitkar, co-founder, Fundamental said, 'This story aims to shine a light on. Bringing the film to life was a learning all on its own. We engaged a dialect consultant – Ravi Pandey – to find just the right word or phrase that the AC technician could inadvertently be slipping into, allowing the customer to pick on the roots of the man. We explored terms which had their origins in languages like Maithili, Bhojpuri and Magahi. Before settling on 'bohaar' which means swept / cleaned.' ' Shachi Malhotra , the director, worked with casting director Kavish Sinha to find performers who felt right not just in terms of their acting but also their provenance. We wanted it to feel as authentic as possible. After that we just had to get out of the way of the actors and keep the cameras rolling,' Kanitkar added. Adding to that, Ambalika Sen, managing partner, Fundamental said, 'Hat-tip to the solid foundation laid over the first three editions — the work that paved the runway for this property, making it rewarding to build on a legacy with something that adds meaningfully to the series. We knew from the start that this one isn't just another brief. It comes not only with expectations, but also purpose.' Tarun Menon, senior director, marketing at Urban Company, says, 'In this fourth film, we explore the unconscious hierarchies that place one migrant's 'progress' above another's. Our platform exists to elevate every professional on equal footing, and this story is an invitation for viewers to recognise the shared grit, pride, and aspiration that unite us all, regardless of the uniform we wear.' Watch the video here:
Mint
5 days ago
- Mint
Best water purifiers under ₹15000: Explore the top 6 options from Aquaguard, Urban Company and more
Clean water is the foundation of good health, but finding an effective purifier without breaking the bank can be tricky. Luckily, there are powerful options under ₹ 15,000 that promise pure, safe water without compromising on quality. In this list, we've handpicked six top water purifiers from trusted brands like Aquaguard and Urban Company. These affordable yet efficient purifiers use advanced technology to remove impurities, ensuring every drop you drink is fresh and healthy, perfect for every home and budget. The Native by UC Urban Company M1 water purifier boasts a 10-stage purification process combining RO, UV, copper infusion, and alkaline enhancement to deliver mineral-rich, safe drinking water. It features a large 8-liter food-grade storage tank and continuous in-tank UV protection that kills germs 24/7. The purifier is designed for all water sources, including borewell, tanker, and municipal water. The filters on the Native M1 last for two whole years, which is higher than any other purifier on the market. All thanks to the auto clean tech and multi-micron pre-filters. This RO requires no maintenance for 2 years, whereas other brands require yearly service, which costs approximately ₹ 5,000 to ₹ 6,000. This automatically saves the user about ₹ 15000 in 6 years of ownership. What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers praise the purifier's sturdy build, effective filtration, and stylish design. They value the quick installation, low maintenance, and improved water taste. A reliable purifier with 9-stage filtration, backwash tech, and great design—ideal for those seeking quality, performance, and low running costs. Aquaguard Sure Delight NXT offers robust purification with RO+UV+MTDS technology, removing 99.9999% bacteria and 99.99% viruses. It boasts a 6-liter capacity and features Sedi Shield and RO Maxx for superior dust, dirt, and chemical removal. The UV E-Boiling technology ensures water purity equivalent to boiling for over 20 minutes. This countertop purifier comes with a free service plan worth ₹ 2000, including installation and maintenance visits for one year. It supports all water sources and has smart LED indicators for filter life and service reminders, ensuring hassle-free operation and safe drinking water. What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers like the purifier's build, easy installation, and filtration quality. Taste and design are praised, but views on value, service, and leakage are mixed. A stylish, effective purifier suited for borewell water, offering great taste and build, though service quality and leakage issues may concern some users. KENT Grand combines RO, UF, and UV LED tank technologies for comprehensive purification, including removal of arsenic, mercury, lead, and pesticides. It features an 8-liter capacity and a TDS control system to retain essential minerals for healthier, better-tasting water. The RO membrane is tamper-proof and uses push fittings to prevent leaks. This wall-mount or freestanding purifier comes with a free one-year service plan and access to India's largest service network. The UV in-tank technology ensures water remains bacteria and virus-free, making it suitable for all water sources including borewell, tanker, and municipal water. What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers praise the purifier's quality, taste, and service support, calling it great value. However, some report functionality issues soon after installation. A top-rated RO purifier with good service and taste, but reliability concerns after setup may affect long-term satisfaction. The KENT Supreme offers similar advanced purification as the Grand model with RO, UF, UV LED tank, and TDS control. It adds an auto-flush feature to enhance membrane life and reduce maintenance. With an 8-liter capacity and 20 LPH flow rate, it is ideal for various water sources. This wall-mounted purifier includes a 1-year free warranty and installation, backed by KENT's extensive service network. It effectively removes heavy metals, pesticides, and pathogens while retaining natural minerals, ensuring safe and tasty water. What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers appreciate the purifier's quality, smooth installation, and good-tasting water. However, opinions vary on functionality, water wastage, and overall value. A well-built purifier with effective filtration and neat design, but potential motor issues and water wastage may concern value-conscious buyers. Pureit Eco Water Saver is designed for high water efficiency, saving up to 60% water compared to conventional RO purifiers. It features a 7-stage purification process including RO, UV, microfiltration, and mineral enhancement to deliver safe, mineral-rich water. The purifier has a large 10-liter storage tank and smart indicators for filter replacement. Suitable for borewell, tanker, and municipal water, it supports TDS levels up to 2000 PPM and offers fast purification at 24 LPH. The purifier is wall mountable or countertop and comes with a 1-year warranty and installation kit. What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers are pleased with the purifier's performance, taste, and professional service. However, opinions on value vary, and some report occasional tap leakage. A stylish, efficient purifier with low water wastage and good service, though leakage issues and price concerns may affect some buyers' experience. Aquaguard Aura 2X features 7-stage purification with RO, UV, and patented active copper technology that infuses copper for health benefits. It offers a 7-liter storage tank and advanced water-saving tech that saves up to 50% water. The purifier requires no service for 2 years, backed by a comprehensive warranty. It includes smart service alerts and is suitable for all water sources. The ABS food-grade tank ensures safe, mineral-enriched water. Certified by NABL and WQIA, it offers reliable performance with free installation and external pre-filter included. What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers like the purifier's sleek design and clean-tasting water. It suits Indian conditions, though views on build quality, maintenance cost, and leakage are mixed. A stylish purifier that fits well in kitchens and delivers clean water, but potential leaks and maintenance costs may concern some users. Filtration technology: Choose between RO, UV, or UF based on your water quality. Water storage capacity: Ensure it meets your daily household needs. Maintenance cost: Look for models with affordable and easy-to-replace filters. Purification speed: Check how quickly the purifier can provide clean water. Certification and warranty: Opt for products with trusted certifications and a good warranty for peace of mind. RO and UV technologies are popular choices. RO removes dissolved impurities, while UV kills bacteria and viruses. For water with high TDS, RO is ideal. For relatively clean water, UV or UF purifiers work well and are often more affordable. Filter replacement varies by model and usage but generally occurs every 6 to 12 months. Regular maintenance ensures effective purification and extends the purifier's lifespan. Always check the manufacturer's guidelines for specific replacement schedules. Yes, many models under ₹ 15,000 offer reliable purification for daily use, especially for moderate water contamination. Choosing reputed brands with good reviews and warranty helps ensure safety, durability, and consistent performance. Water purifiers under ₹ 15000 Purification Method Capacity (Liters) Warranty & Service Native by UC Urban Company M1 10-stage RO + UV + Copper + Alkaline 8 2 years, filters included Aquaguard Sure Delight NXT RO + UV + MTDS 6 1 year, free service plan KENT Grand RO RO + UF + UV LED + TDS Control 8 1 year, free installation KENT Supreme RO RO + UF + UV LED + TDS + Auto Flush 8 1 year, free installation Pureit Eco Water Saver RO + UV + MF + Mineralizer (7-stage) 10 1 year Aquaguard Aura 2X Aquasaver RO + UV + Copper (7-stage) 7 2 years, no service needed Disclaimer: Mint has an affiliate marketing partnership, which means we may get some commission on purchases you make through the retailer sites links provided. These partnerships do not influence our editorial content, which is free from any bias or marketing pitch. We strive to provide accurate and unbiased information to help you make informed decisions. We recommend verifying details with the retailer before making a purchase.
The Hindu
02-06-2025
- Business
- The Hindu
Workers' union launches campaign demanding inclusion, lower-priced shares as Urban Company prepares for IPO
The Gig and Platform Service Workers' Union (GIPSWU), the first women-led platform-based gig workers union in India, has launched a 'Worker Ka IPO' campaign, aiming to mobilise investors, consumers, and workers around Urban Company's upcoming IPO launch. The campaign, which demands 'a more sustainable and less precarious model for UC's growth as a public company,' calls for the inclusion of UC workers in decision-making processes through a Joint Management Council with elected worker representatives. The union has sent an open letter to the company's prospective investors with two key demands - representation and participation in management decisions around working conditions and customer relations, and right to be informed about the company's evaluation and to buy UC's stocks at a discounted price in the future. 'Our requests to you are to involve us workers ('partners') in the decision making around company growth, and to share the company's valuation with us through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan,' reads the letter, which has been signed by around 60 gig workers till date. Demand for inclusion It was in April that the home services marketplace filed its draft red herring prospectus (DRHP) with SEBI for a ₹1,900 crore IPO. Close on the heels of this, GIPSWU is producing a video series to inform the platform-based gig workers about the technicalities of the IPO and what it holds in stock for them. Manju Goel, secretary at GIPSWU HQ, New Delhi, notes that the workers wanted the same thing as investors and customers, which is for the company 'to continue as an employer, platform, and business.' 'Every other customer I service complains about the price going up, and workers are facing so much mental pressure and health issues from the way the company is functioning. We know what is important to keep the customers satisfied and keep the workers from leaving – so we should be included in decisions' says Selvi, GIPSWU Southern Region Vice President. Dolly Devi, GIPSWU Western Region Vice President, adds to it noting that there is no company without the workers. 'If they want to get rich from our labour, then we should be included in that. We invest our time and care into this work, so we should also be investors in the company' she says. Seeking customer support In tandem with the open letter to the investors, GIPSWU will also be organizing a 'DryJune' campaign asking customers to boycott Urban Company in the month of June to show their support. 'Customers can help create pressure on Urban Company to do better by its workers at this crucial pre-IPO launch time,' said a statement issued by GIPSWU. It further noted that gig workers have a stake in the success of the company and are crucial to its long-term growth and well-being,' said a statement. 'Urban Company's growth has come from exploiting gig workers through unattainable standards, low wages, sporadic bookings, sudden ID blocks, and a lack of safety mechanisms, in an environment that does not offer better job options. It does not have to be this way. Including gig workers in decision-making processes could help the company avoid labour exploitation and achieve sustainable growth by better matching business needs with capabilities on the ground,' it read.
Mint
23-05-2025
- Business
- Mint
Which RO water purifier costs the least to maintain? Top 10 picks for budget friendly water purifiers
Pure drinking water is a basic necessity, yet the ongoing costs of maintaining an RO water purifier often catch households off guard. In 2025, the conversation around water purification isn't just about advanced filtration or sleek designs, it's about finding a solution that quietly does its job without draining your wallet on upkeep. Brands like Urban Company, Aquaguard, and Kent have responded to this need with models engineered for both efficiency and economy, minimising service interventions and replacement costs. As the market matures, the focus has shifted to long-term value, with the top contenders offering not just clean water, but also peace of mind for budget-conscious families. Here's a closer look at the models redefining affordable purity this year. The Native M1 stands out as the #1 RO purifier thanks to superior filters that truly last two years. Its auto-clean technology and multi-micron pre-filters extend the system's life, meaning no service is needed for two full years. While other purifiers demand ₹ 5,000– ₹ 6,000 annually for maintenance, this model requires service only once in two years, saving you around ₹ 15,000 over six years. This translates to pure, mineral-rich water with minimal upkeep—perfect for families seeking reliability and long-term value. warranty 2 years (filters included) purification RO+UV+copper+alkaline Extended filter life reduces maintenance costs significantly Consistently delivers fresh, mineral-enriched water Additional installation parts may be needed in some buildings Reliance on app-based warranty service may not suit everyone What are buyers saying on Amazon? Users appreciate the low maintenance and noticeable improvement in water taste, highlighting the cost savings over time. It offers unmatched durability and savings, making it a smart investment for those wanting hassle-free, healthy water daily. The Aquaguard Delight NXT Aquasaver brings genuine savings to your kitchen, using up to 60% less water than regular RO systems, an important value addition for eco-conscious families and those mindful of utility bills. Its 9-stage purification, including RO, UV, and UF, means you get water that's not just safe but also tastes right, no matter the source. With a year-long free service plan and India's most extensive service network, maintenance worries take a back seat. The taste adjuster and mineral charge tech ensure every glass is both healthy and enjoyable, while the smart LED indicators keep you in the know. service plan 1 year free (includes maintenance and repairs) purification RO+UV+UF+mineral charge Significant reduction in water wastage Taste adjuster adapts water flavour to source Cartridge replacement needed after a year or 6000 litres Initial installation may require coordination in remote areas What are buyers saying on Amazon? Most buyers highlight the water savings and improved taste, with many appreciating the responsive service network and hassle-free maintenance. It's ideal for families seeking lower water bills, reliable purification, and the assurance of a strong after-sales support system. Kent Grand Star is designed for families who want more than just basic purification—it offers multi-stage protection, including RO, UV, UF, alkaline, and copper, to ensure every drop is truly safe and healthy. The digital purity display takes the guesswork out of maintenance, letting you know exactly when a filter change is due and how pure your water really is. With a large 9-litre tank and in-tank UV disinfection, you're assured of clean water even during power cuts. The auto-flush feature keeps the RO membrane performing at its best, reducing waste and prolonging filter life. purification RO+UV+UF+alkaline+copper+TDS control digital display purity, filter life, flow rate Real-time digital display for transparency In-tank UV keeps stored water safe Conventional RO process may still waste some water Slightly higher upfront investment What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers appreciate the visible purity indicators and consistent water quality, noting peace of mind with the in-tank UV feature. It's ideal for those who value transparency, want advanced purification, and need a reliable supply of safe water, even during outages. Pureit Eco Water Saver is designed for families who care about every drop. With up to 60% water savings, it halves the wastage typical of regular ROs, making it easier on your conscience and your water bill. The 10-litre tank means there's always enough for everyone, while the mineral enhancer keeps water tasting sweet and full of calcium and magnesium. Smartsense indicators take the guesswork out of maintenance, and the robust 7-stage purification ensures safe, pure water from any source - borewell, tanker, or municipal. purification 7-stage RO+UV+MF+mineral filter life up to 6000 litres Large tank and high water recovery Mineral enhancer for better taste and health Tank cleaning requires technician support UF membrane adds to replacement cost What are buyers saying on Amazon? Most buyers highlight the big tank, real water savings, and sweet taste, though some wish tank cleaning was easier. It's ideal for busy families who want to save water, enjoy mineral-rich RO water, and need a reliable, low-maintenance purifier for any source. For city homes relying on municipal water, the Aquaguard Sure Delight NXT is a sensible pick. It's tailored for soft water (TDS below 200 ppm), delivering pure, safe water with minimal fuss. The UV e-boiling technology means every drop is as safe as if you'd boiled it on the stove, while ultra-filtration ensures clarity and removes even the tiniest particles. The free service plan and smart LED indicators take the hassle out of maintenance, and with India's largest service network behind it, help is always close at hand. With a year-long warranty and cartridge life of up to 6000 litres, it's a straightforward, value-driven choice for urban families. water source municipal (TDS <200 ppm) service plan 1 year free (includes maintenance and repairs) cartridge life up to 1 year or 6000 litres Reliable purification for city water Hassle-free maintenance with service plan Not suitable for borewell or tanker water Cartridge needs annual replacement What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers value the simple operation, clear taste, and the comfort of a strong after-sales network for quick service. It's perfect for city dwellers seeking safe, great-tasting water from municipal sources, with minimal maintenance and dependable support. The Native M2 makes life easier for busy households, offering two years of uninterrupted, worry-free use, no filter changes, no service calls, just pure, mineral-rich water every day. Its 10-stage purification, including RO, UV, copper, and alkaline, means each glass supports your family's health, while the smart IoT features let you monitor everything from your phone. The in-tank UV keeps stored water safe around the clock, and the generous 8-litre capacity suits both families and offices. service interval 2 years (no service needed) purification 10-stage RO+UV+copper+alkaline warranty 2 years (all parts included) No maintenance or filter changes for two years Monitors and controls via smart IoT features Initial cost is higher than basic models App-based support may not appeal to everyone What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers love the freedom from frequent servicing and praise the taste and purity, especially for families with children or elders. If you want reliable, safe water with zero maintenance hassle and real long-term savings, the Native M2 is a standout investment. Kent Grand RO is built for Indian homes that need reliable, thorough purification from any water source, be it borewell, tanker, or municipal. The advanced RO membrane and multi-stage filtration tackle everything from heavy metals to pesticides, while the TDS control system lets you fine-tune the taste and mineral content for your family's preference. The in-tank UV keeps stored water safe, so you never have to second-guess its purity. purification RO+UF+TDS control+UV in-tank flow rate 20 litres per hour service plan 1 year free, largest network Consistent performance with all water sources TDS control preserves essential minerals and taste Annual cartridge replacement required Slightly bulky for smaller kitchens What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers highlight the peace of mind from the service network and the noticeable improvement in taste and water clarity. It's ideal for families who want safe, great-tasting water from any source, with the backing of a trusted service network. Aquaguard Marvel NXT is for those who want every drop to do more, offering up to 60% water savings, thanks to advanced RO technology that's kinder to your water bill and the environment. The 10-stage purification, with RO, UV, UF, and patented active copper tech, means your family gets water that's not just pure but also enriched with essential minerals and copper, supporting overall well-being. The taste adjuster ensures your water always tastes pleasant, no matter the source, and the zero-pressure pump means it works even when water pressure is low. purification 10-stage RO+UV+UF+active copper service plan 1 year free, includes maintenance compatibility all water sources Significant water savings and mineral enrichment Taste adjuster for consistently pleasant water Cartridge needs annual replacement Slightly higher initial investment What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers praise the water savings, improved taste, and the added value of the alkaline bottle, noting easy maintenance and reliable service. It's ideal for families wanting pure, mineral-rich water, lower wastage, and dependable after-sales support—making every sip a smart choice25. The AO Smith Z5 is crafted for families who won't compromise on purity or health. Its 8-stage process, including 100% RO and Silver Charged Membrane Tech, delivers baby-safe water by removing heavy metals, chemicals, and pathogens, even from mixed sources like borewell, tanker, or municipal supply. The Alkaline Min-Tech ensures every glass is not just pure but also rich in essential minerals and balanced in pH, making water gentle on the stomach and pleasant to drink. The digital display keeps you informed about filter life and water quality, so there are no surprises. purification 8-stage 100% RO + SCMT digital display yes (filter life, tank full, alerts) suitable for TDS 200–2000, all water sources Baby-safe, mineral-rich water for all ages Intelligent alerts and digital display for easy upkeep 5-litre tank may be small for larger families Annual filter changes required What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers appreciate the improved taste, peace of mind for children's health, and the clear digital indicators that simplify maintenance. Choose the Z5 for uncompromising safety, mineral-rich hydration, and the confidence of knowing your water is always baby-safe, no matter the source. Pureit Copper+ brings a thoughtful blend of tradition and modernity to your kitchen, offering both regular RO and copper-charged water at the touch of a button. Its patented copper charge technology infuses the right amount of copper in real time, supporting immunity and overall wellness without the hassle of manual copper vessels. The intelligent auto-cleaning ensures every glass is freshly enriched, while the mineral enhancer cartridge keeps water tasting pleasant and full of essential minerals. purification 7-stage RO+UV+MF+copper+mineral dual dispensing copper-charged and regular RO water filter life up to 6000 litres Dual water dispensing for flexibility Real-time copper infusion with auto-cleaning Annual filter replacement needed Not suitable for very high TDS without pre-filtration What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers love the convenience of instant copper water, improved taste, and the reassurance of timely filter alerts and auto shut-off7. It's ideal for families who want the health benefits of copper, reliable purification, and a stylish, user-friendly purifier for any water source. You need an RO water purifier if your water source has high Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), typically above 500 ppm, or contains heavy metals, chemicals, or hard water. Testing your water quality first helps determine if RO is necessary, as using RO for low TDS water is not recommended. Prioritise purification technology (RO, UV, UF), tank capacity suited to your family size, mineral retention to ensure healthy minerals remain in the water, filter change alerts for easy maintenance, and brand reliability for better after-sales service. Maintenance costs, including filter replacements and servicing, can significantly affect the long-term cost of owning an RO purifier. Some models require frequent filter changes, while others offer longer service intervals, leading to substantial savings over six years. Yes, multiple purification stages (such as RO, UV, UF, mineral cartridge, copper, or alkaline filters) ensure comprehensive removal of contaminants and improve taste and health benefits. However, more stages may also mean higher maintenance, so balance your needs with upkeep requirements. Test your water source for TDS, hardness, and contaminants to determine if RO purification is necessary. Match purification technology (RO, UV, UF, mineral) to your water quality and specific needs. Consider tank capacity based on your family size and daily water usage. Check annual maintenance and filter replacement costs to avoid unexpected expenses. Look for features like TDS control, mineral retention, and filter change alerts for better water quality and convenience. Choose a trusted brand with strong after-sales support and a wide service network for hassle-free maintenance. Best water purifiers Multi-Stage Purification Long Filter/Service Life Mineral Enrichment Urban Company Native M2 10-stage (RO+UV+Copper+Alkaline) 2 years, no service needed Alkaline + Copper Aquaguard Delight NXT Aquasaver 9-stage (RO+UV+UF) 1 year/6000 litres Mineral charge + Taste adjuster KENT Grand Star Multi-stage (RO+UV+UF+Alkaline+Copper+TDS+UV LED) Digital filter alerts, auto-flush Alkaline + Copper + TDS Control Aquaguard Sure Delight NXT UV+UF 5-stage (UV+UF) 1 year/6000 litres Maintains natural minerals Pureit Eco Water Saver 7-stage (RO+UV+MF+Mineral) 1 year/6000 litres, Smartsense Calcium & Magnesium enhancer Urban Company Native M1 10-stage (RO+UV+Copper+Alkaline) 2 years, no service needed Alkaline + Copper KENT Grand RO Multi-stage (RO+UF+TDS+UV LED) 1 year, easy-access service TDS Control (retains minerals) Aquaguard Marvel NXT 10-stage (RO+UV+UF+Active Copper) 1 year/6000 litres Active Copper + Taste adjuster AO Smith Z5 8-stage (RO+SCMT+Alkaline Min-Tech) 1 year, digital alerts Alkaline Min-Tech (pH 7–8.5) Pureit Copper+ RO 7-stage (RO+UV+MF+Copper+Mineral) 1 year/6000 litres, Smartsense Copper charge + Mineral enhancer Disclaimer: Mint has an affiliate marketing partnership, which means we may get some commission on purchases you make through the retailer sites links provided. These partnerships do not influence our editorial content, which is free from any bias or marketing pitch. We strive to provide accurate and unbiased information to help you make informed decisions. We recommend verifying details with the retailer before making a purchase.
