The 12 Best Water Coolers for Fresh Water on Demand

Water coolers might have a reputation for being the spot where coworkers stop to chat, but many people have them at home, as the dispensers can come in handy in a garage, play space, or other area where there’s no tap available.

Most water coolers are extremely easy to operate, and they typically use the large 3- or 5-gallon water jugs that you can purchase at any large retail store. (Or, if you don’t want to have to buy jugs of water, some models are designed to be hooked up to your home’s water line.)

There are several different styles of water coolers available today, including freestanding units, countertop models, and even wall-mounted designs. You’ll be able to select from coolers that offer just room-temperature water or can dispense water at different temperatures. Plus, many have additional features, such as self-cleaning, built-in storage, or touchless designs.

Best Water Coolers

What to Consider

Water coolers might seem fairly straightforward, but there are a few things you’ll want to think about as you shop. Most water coolers dispense water from either 3- or 5-gallon jugs, and these containers are typically loaded into either the top or bottom of the cooler. Bottom-load coolers are much easier to use, but top-load coolers are typically more affordable, as they have a simpler design. Alternatively, there are point-of-use water coolers, which connect to the building’s water supply, saving you from having to replace water jugs. The downside here is that installation is much more complicated.

Other factors to consider include whether you want a cooler that dispenses room-temperature, cold, or hot water (or some combination of the three), as well as if it needs a filtration system or other features, such as a child lock or self-cleaning mechanism.

How We Selected

To help you find the right water cooler for your needs, we searched for top-rated models from reputable brands like Avalon and Brio. We selected a variety of different styles and sizes for this list, aiming to provide options for both home and office use. Many of the water coolers selected offer useful features, and they span a wide price range, helping you to find one that fits your budget.