Platypus GravityWorks (4L)
Specifications
| Weight | Flow Rate | Type | Capacity | Filter Life | MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11.5 oz | 1.75 L/min | Gravity | 4 L | 1,500 L | $134.95 |
Filtration Rate & Capacity
The GravityWorks system delivers a solid flow - rated at 1.75 L/min. It features a hollow-fiber cartridge rated for 1,500 L of filtration before a replacement filter is needed.
Filtration Capability
With its 0.2 µm hollow-fiber membrane, the system effectively removes 99.9999% of bacteria and 99.9% of protozoa, including Giardia and Cryptosporidium. It meets EPA standards for safe backcountry water—though, similar to competitors, it does not filter viruses like the Grayl UltraPress.
Weight & Packability
The 4 L system weighs approximately 11.5 oz (326 g) and packs to about 12 × 6 × 3 in. While more compact than many pump filters, it’s bulkier than squeeze or straw filters and less suitable for ultralight setups or space limited packs.
Ease of Use
GravityWorks is remarkably user-friendly once assembled. Fill the dirty reservoir from a stream, hang it up, and let gravity push water through the filter into the clean bag—hands-free and hassle-free. Auto-shutoff and inline clamps offer control. Once familiar with setting this up, this is a low effort means to filter larger quantities of water.
Price
Priced at $135, this puts GravityWorks toward the upper end for filters, but it offers hands-off functionality and group functionality that justify the cost for the right user. While more expensive than squeeze filters, GravityWorks offers a very different filtration experience; higher volume output with minimal effort.
Quality & Materials
Constructed with PE reservoirs, sturdy hoses, and a filtration cartridge rated for 1,500 L, the system feels well-built. However, it’s vulnerable to freezing like other hollow fiber microfilters.
Consumer Sentiment – Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Effortless, fast gravity filtration
- Large capacity ideal for groups and dry-camping
- Easy field cleaning and filter integrity testing
Cons:
- Bulkier compared to squeeze filters and setup includes multiple pieces
- Pricier than many filter options
- Must avoid freezing
Comparison to Comparable Items
Katadyn BeFree: BeFree is a lightweight, fast-flow squeeze filter built for solo users, but it clogs more easily and has a shorter lifespan. GravityWorks is better served for larger groups and/or an extended camp setting.
Platypus QuickDraw: GravityWorks in camp settings, especially when filtering large volumes with no squeezing. The QuickDraw is more portable and convenient for on-the-go hydration, but it requires manual effort and is better suited for solo or ultralight hiking.
Grayl UltraPresss: The GravityWorks is better for high-volume filtration and group use, requiring no pumping or pressing, while the Grayl UltraPress is a compact, all-in-one purifier ideal for international travel or fast personal use. However, the UltraPress is heavier, treats only 16 oz at a time, and requires significant pressing force, making it less efficient for backcountry group needs
Who Is This Intended For
GravityWorks is ideal for couples, small groups, basecampers, and dry-camp scenarios where ease, speed, and lower effort matter. It’s less suited for ultralight single hikers, or freeze-prone environments unless precautions are taken.
