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MSR MiniWorks EX Water Filter
8.3/10 Great
MSR MiniWorks EX pump filter review. Ceramic/carbon element, NSF P231 certified, AirSpring Accumulator, 1 L/min flow. Real-world testing for backpacking and camping.
$90
Check Price on Amazon $100
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Last updated: 2026-04-08
Score Breakdown
Portability 7.0/10
Value 8.5/10
Features 8.0/10
Build Quality 8.5/10
Pros & Cons
What We Like
- Carbon core removes chemicals, pesticides, and improves taste — not just particulates
- NSF P231 certified for 99.9999% bacteria and 99.9% protozoa removal
- AirSpring Accumulator makes pumping noticeably easier and faster
- Ceramic element is field-cleanable to restore flow rate
- Excellent value at ~$90 for a certified ceramic/carbon pump filter
Watch Out For
- 2,000-liter filter life is significantly shorter than Katadyn Pocket's 50,000L
- 14.6 oz is heavier than squeeze or inline filters for ultralight packing
- Pump mechanism requires physical effort compared to gravity systems
- Does not remove viruses — suitable for North American backcountry only
- Carbon core cannot be cleaned — only the ceramic outer shell is serviceable
Full Specifications
| Filter Type | ceramic/carbon pump filter |
| Weight Oz | 14.6 |
| Flow Rate | 1 L/min |
| Filter Life Liters | 2000 |
| Filter Life Gallons | 528 |
| Pore Size | 0.2 micron ceramic with carbon core |
| Contaminants Removed | bacteria, protozoa, chemicals, chlorine, pesticides, taste, odor |
| Requires Power | false |
| Virus Removal | false |
| Ceramic Cleanable | true |
| Carbon Core | true |
| Airspring Accumulator | true |
| Pump Dimensions | 7.5 x 2.75 in |
| Hose Length Inches | 36 |
| Operating Temp | above freezing |
| Meets Standard | NSF protocol P231 |
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