The 6 Best Water Coolers of 2021

Updated May 21, 2020

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Everyone is trying to live a healthier life, and part of a healthy lifestyle is drinking more water. To consume more H2O, many people turn to bottled water, but constantly buying more bottles is time-consuming and can get very expensive — especially in an office setting. Plus, that's not even mentioning how bad plastic water bottles are for the environment. A better solution? Purchasing a water cooler.

There are a few different types of water coolers you can purchase. A top-load water cooler, as its name suggests, loads from the top but you’ll have to lift two- to five-gallon water bottles to fill it. A portable water cooler is less expensive and is a good option for people who don't have a lot of extra kitchen space. A bottom-load water cooler uses five-gallon water bottles and offers the added bonus of not having to lift them. Point-of-use water coolers are the best for functionality and once installed, you never have to worry about reloading them since they connect directly to your existing water supply.

Some other features to look for: drip trays, hot and cold water availability, safety features, and purification systems. That's a lot to keep in mind, but we did the research for you, so read on for the best options on the market now.

Best Overall: Primo White 2-Spout Bottom-Load Dispenser

Primo White 2 Spout Bottom Load Hot and Cold Water Cooler — Amazon

This popular water cooler from Primo is designed for convenient bottom loading and gives access to both ice cold and piping hot water. It has a sleek white design that coordinates well with modern kitchens and offers easy push control buttons. The 52-pound model can accommodate three- or five-gallon water bottles thanks to a 17.1 x 16.1 x 47.4-inch build. It is easy and convenient to use as there is no plumbing or installation required. You can buy Primo Purified Water to refill your cooler or opt for your own preferred brand. Note: purchase of the water cooler does come with coupons for Primo drinking water which is available at thousands of retail outlets nationwide. The Primo White 2-Spout Bottom-Load Hot and Cold Water Cooler Dispenser is energy-star rated and has a 5-star rating. Customers state it is easy and convenient to use and keeps hot and cold water at just the right temperature.

Best for Countertops: Primo Countertop Porcelain Ceramic Water Dispenser

If you have limited kitchen space, this water cooler from Primo is a great option thanks to its small 11.2 x 14.8 x 13-inch footprint. The 10.9-pound unit is very well-priced and stylish, complete with a ceramic base that is dishwasher safe. The model is BPA- and lead-free and coupons for Primo water refills are included. It dispenses room temperature water with a very simple-to-use push button and no electricity is required. A wooden stand is included, and you can just as easily place it in other rooms of your home should you not want it in your kitchen. Another plus? A one-year manufacturer's limited warranty is included with the cooler.

Best Top-Loading: Avalon Premium Hot/Cold Top-Loading Countertop Water Dispenser

At just 12 x 12 x 19 inches, this portable, top-loading unit from Avalon fits easily on any countertop and comes with both cold and hot water spouts which respectively cool and heat your H20 to 47-degrees and 180-degrees Fahrenheit. The model is Energy Star Certified and comes in black which matches many kitchen decors for a modern addition whether at home or in an office setting. This water cooler also comes with a one-year manufacturer’s limited warranty.

Best Pet-Friendly: Primo Water Cooler Dispenser + Pet Station

Pet-friendly offices have much to benefit from with this 5-gallon water cooler and pet station combo from Primo. The innovative water cooler has a dishwasher-safe removable pet bowl that can be placed either in front of or on either side of the cooler so four-legged office members can stay hydrated as well. Water fills the pet bowl only when it's placed in its holder, so you don't have to worry about puddles or drips.

A compact cooler, the unit measures 11.8 x 11.8 x 41.1 inches, so you can fit it in your home or office. There is also a child-resistant hot water safety feature as well as an LED night light. Coupons are included for Primo water refills which are available at thousands of locations nationwide.

Best for Storage: Costway Top-Loading Water Cooler with Storage Cabinet

If you're looking for a water dispenser with added storage space, this freestanding, top-loading cooler from Costway comes with a built-in cabinet. The unit easily fits in a corner whether at home or in your office and promises hassle-free set-up. The model features both cold and hot water with the first chilled to 42.8- to 50-degrees Fahrenheit and the latter heated to 194- to 203-degrees Fahrenheit. The 12.2 x 12.6 x 38-inch water dispenser is made of stainless steel which guarantees durability. The unit is white and black and fits in seamlessly with most home and office décor. The additional storage comes in handy for stowing away cups, tea bags, and other common office kitchen supplies.

Best for Durability: Brio CL500 Commercial Grade Top-Load Water Dispenser

This industrial-strength top-loading water cooler from Brio was made for durability with a body comprised of commercial-grade ABS plastic. The material is resistant to any corrosive chemicals and physical impact, so you can expect the unit to last a long time even in a commercial setting. Inside, the model features 100-percent stainless steel cold and hot reservoirs which keep your water at desired temperatures. The unit can accommodate three- and five-gallon water bottles, depending on your preference. The model measures 12.6 x 12.6 x 38.6 inches and weighs 29.3 pounds. Perhaps best of all, it uses a high-efficiency compressor which performs at the lowest cycle rate possible for an exceptionally quiet performance.