Sawyer Mini VS Hydroblu Versa Flow - Which is the Better Water Filter?

In this video I compare the Sawyer Mini with the Hydroblu Versa Flow water filters
BarnYard Outdoors / barnyardoutdoors
Gear Skeptic - Backcountry Water Treatment, Part 3: Microfiltration • Backcountry Water Trea...
Hydroblue Versaflow hydroblu.com/versa-flow-light...
Sawyer Mini www.sawyer.com/products/mini-...
Size/Weight
Hydroblue Weight - 2oz Length - 5.7” Diameter - 1.5”
Sawyer Weight - 1.4oz Length - 5.35” Diameter - 1.35”
Performance
Hydroblue Removes 6 log 99.9999% of all bacteria and 3 log 99.99% of all protozoa
Sawyer Removes 7 log (99.99999%) of all bacteria and 6 log (99.9999%) of all protozoa
Features
Hydroblue 0.1-micron hollow core fibers
Just the filter (show enhanced package)
Cap on both ends
Can attach bottle to both ends
Month indicator
Filter Life: up to 100,000 gallons
Sawyer 0.1-micron hollow core fibers
Filter, straw, 1 bag, and syringe
Can only attach a bottle on the input end
Cap on one end only (other end will leak)
Filter Life: up to 100,000 gallons
Cost
Hydroblue Versaflow $42.00 CAD ($59.99 CAD plus for my package)
Sawyer Mini $40.00 CAD

[@slowhike]

Along with Sawyer being a great filter, I really respect that they use a portion of the profits to help provide clean drinking water in various third world countries.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

I agree. I will buy more from them for that reason. Thanks for commenting

[@mike_outdoors4918]

I have been a user of the Sawyer filters for a while now, first the mini, now the squeeze, I maintain them not just with back flushing, but vinegar too. Had a hard time trying to get a CNOC bag in the UK, so hopefully soon. Thanks for another balanced review Mark, take care 👍🙂

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

I have also heard it won't hurt to back flush the filter with a weak bleach mixture. Will need to look at that a bit more closely. Thanks for commenting

[@kellyjohnson3617]

Yep, CNOC vecto is the bag to use with most water filter systems. Love mine. I like CNOC as a company. Great experience working with them. The newer vectos have a leash to keep you from losing the top seal. That’s a plus cuz untethered items have a way of falling out and disappearing. My preference in filters is the sawyer squeeze. But I love the idea of the carbon filter. Would like that option for all filters. I live in CA where I have to filter all my tap water. It’s safe to drink but tastes horrid. So I have a life straw bottle for everyday use at home cuz it’s easy. And brita carbon filters for all my other water usage for cooking and such.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Right on. The leash for the cap and the closure were one of my recommendations when I reviewed the first Vecto. Thanks

[@aadmonk]

I really enjoyed your review. The thing I find Interesting about the Hydroblu is the activated carbon accessory filter. It is supposed to remove chemicals, heavy metals, etc. Should I be forced to drink from a questionable water source, it seems that would be a big plus. I wish I could find more information on how to maintain the activated carbon filter. I own several Sawyer filters, and the Sawyer squeeze is by far my go to water filter. I also like the fact that Sawyer does great things as a company, such as giving free water filters and training on how to use them to people in developing countries.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

I like Sawyer as well for the reasons you mention plus, they just keep on working. Best I could find about carbon filter is the occasional back-flush. Likely, it will just need to be replaced every so often. Thanks for commenting

[@davidmcnamara7489]

Thanks Mark. I did watch the Gear Skeptic’s video on filters that you recommended. It was fantastic. He put so much research into it. 🤓🎣🇦🇺

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Right on. He deserves a lot of credit. Thanks for commenting

[@auroraborealisknives4019]

Excellent review thanks I have been using the Sawyer for a while now but never knew of the CNOC bags. Thanks for the tip

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

The CNOC Vecto bags make life so easy. Thanks

[@BarnYardOutdoors]

Great and thorough review Mark! I use the CNoc bags with mine and find it makes a great gravity filter with two bags. I like a faster filter rate, but honestly have never been in a situation where I needed filtered water fast. Usually when I stop for water, I am also taking a break to sit, relax, have a snack and enjoy the scenery. Thanks for the shoutout.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

I agree Chris. I am never in a rush for water. I usually filter while doing other chores. The shout-out is most deserved.

[@Sheltowee1775]

You do a great job and a true service to those of us trying to learn new skills.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

I appreciate that! It is what I hope to do. Thanks for commenting

[@GearSkeptic]

Outstanding! I did not know about the Hydroblu carbon filter. Always love a good tip on new gear 😁 I totally agree about the syringe providing better pressure for backflushing. I think others mentioned that Sawyer does make a dual-thread Mini. The output end’s threads are male, so it’s made for putting a cap on. They also make a coupler ring (female threads on both ends) so you could connect a bottle to the output side that way. It lets you filter directly into a bottle without spilling or allowing contaminated water in. Good for an unattended gravity setup. Thanks another good video!

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Hello and thanks for commenting. Looks like I need to add a new Sawyer to my collection

[@moorejl57]

Very informative review. I have the second generation Sawyer mini filter with threads at each end and the Vectra 2L collection bag, newer version. Both are great and I filter into Smart water bottles for clean storage. The carbon filter looks interesting, may have to check that out. Thanks for bringing up the importance of filtering water even from crystal clear sources, Giardia is no joke.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

You have a great system. I would think the HydroBlue carbon filter would thread onto the Sawyer. Thanks for commenting

[@alanwilliams5836]

I have been on and off the fence so many times between these 2 filters, as well as many others. Being able to add the carbon element to the versa flow was a big thing to me, as I find the taste of the water much better, along with the bonus of removing the majority of viruses and heavy metals. My solution for having the same capability for the Sawyer Mini was to add a small Platypus Gravityworks Carbon Element directly in-line below the main filter using the small amount of hose that comes with it. Works great. BTW... Sawyer does make a dual threaded mini, but hard to find in stock as a separate filter right now. I know it's included in their one-gallon gravity setup as well.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

I also have the Platypus inline charcoal filter. I would think the HydroBlu carbon filter would screw onto the new Sawyer mini or Squeeze. Thanks

[@nothing4915]

FYI: I was looking for a replacement to my crappy LifeStraw, happy to say: the Sawyer Mini now comes in DUAL THREADED version!

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Might be time for me to buy a new one. Thanks for commenting

[@Pedenzo]

When ever I buy a filter (I prefer the Squeeze for it's higher flow rate....) I purchase a Platypus Wide Mouth bag for dirty water, been around for a long time, they are very similar to the bag you showed. I get activated charcoal from the local pet store and make my own filter add on. Another great review, thank you!

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

I have the Platypus system as well. I need to look at pet store charcoal. Sounds interesting. Thanks

[@MichaelR58]

Good comparison video Mark , thanks for sharing , God bless !

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Most welcome. Same to you

[@jacqueline7118]

Very informative and detailed review Mark! I have the first generation the CNOC bag and yes, if it is not on "just right" it will leak. I always test it away from my clean water collection container before filtering. I have the 1 gallon Sawyer bag (for gravity filling) and like this one better than the smaller ones, the opening for filling is larger. For the smaller ones I use one of the really crinkly water bottles and cut it so I can use it as a filling device. They are really light and easy to use to pour water into the smaller spout of some of the Sawyer bags. I am thinking I will be a Sawyer gal because I have two mini's and they will probably last me my life time. haha! I think the Hydroblu water bottle may make the difference for me. The Sawyer is almost twice the price. If I hike into a lake with my packraft for a day paddle, I like a bottle to just dip into the lake while on the paddle. I will say that I am not too concerned about water quality in the middle of a lake if there are no beavers calling it home but still do filter just in case. :) I saw your review about converting the Sawyer mini into a bottle filter but seem to have trouble finding a bottle that fits the tubing securely. If anyone knows of a brand that it does fit, please give me a shout. Thanks for sharing Mark! :) :)

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Hi Jackie. Lots of thought and experience in your system. Can never go wrong with the Sawyer. Thanks for commenting

[@williamwood6616]

This is (threaded smaller diameter pex) something that I thought about incorporating into the filter line coming from my Katadyn water pump, and the idea came about from the troubleshooting finding purifier tablets

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Interesting. I had not thought of threading PEX. Thanks for the idea

[@sirdee9607]

Thx for that VS

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Most welcome. Thanks

[@terryw.milburn8565]

Great S / S Comparison, I'm Liking That Versa Flow, Thanks Mark. ATB T God Bless

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Right on. Thanks for commenting Terry

[@kennethwilson8633]

Nice comparison. Have fun stay safe

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Thanks for commenting

[@patfinn8859]

I am buying the sawyer ! Thanks

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Can't go wrong. Thanks

[@brucematys6064]

Great video Mark, after watching this video and Gear Skeptic's, I am leaning more towards the Sawyer. Right now I have been using the Woods Waterstraw from CTC. It combines the fibers with charcoal, the flow rate is pretty good. It's not rated for as long a life, I think due to the fact of the charcoal, but it's $25 ca. I am definitely going to pick up a CNOC bag, I've seen them at SAIL. Cheers my friend.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Right on. Can't go wrong with the Sawyer. Thanks for commenting

[@sirdee9607]

I use the Waterdrop Sytem, its perfect for my use

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

I have not heard of this. Will check it out. Thanks

[@joelaut12]

Hi Mark hope you got through the hurricane unscathed, in our prayers.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

It was a very hard storm for many. We were fortunate where we live as the storm moved east a bit. We lost power for a day and there was considerable damage around the city but others had it much worse. Thanks for asking

[@garywood702]

I'll have to check this filter out. I have two Sawyers and an offering from Platypus. Like you, I switched to the CNOC bags. One trip to the water source with my 3 liter bag and I'm able to top off all my water containers for those areas I might travel in with limited access to water. Not sure how the Platypus filter stacks up against either of the filters you mention but so far I haven't had any issues with it. I like the Platypus for ease of use. The outflow end has a hinged snap cap and the inflow end has a cap that threads on and off the filter. Back washing is easy if one uses a water bottle with the sports nozzle. Just push the nozzle into the outflow opening and give the bottle a squeeze. No syringe or tubing required. Give the filter several good shakes with both ends open and replace the caps and no issues with leaks.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Right on. Platypus makes good kit. I have a few of their products but rarely use them. I need to get them out some more. Thanks for commenting

[@garywheeler2055]

A great Canadian ambassador within the camping world 🇨🇦👍🇨🇦👍🇨🇦👍🇨🇦

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Thank you for your kind words

[@eyeofthetiger4184]

G'day Mark, well reviewed/compared mate. I always appreciate your mods too. I must say hallelujah !!! an inline carbon element as an accessory on the Hydroblu. To my knowledge Sawyer has never done that, until they do, I wont purchase a Sawyer because; a. depending on where I go, I cant guarantee no run off from upstream, (or from a lake or dam source), containing heavy metals and/or pesticides. And yep taste is a consideration too. b. a one stop shop no matter where I go, i.e. I don't want to change rigs for a particular location. Just capture everything possible always IMO, far simpler and no guesswork. Cheers Duke.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

I am thinking the HydroBlu carbon element should thread onto the newer Sawyer but I don't have the newer one to try it with. Thanks for commenting

[@maus9777]

sawyer now have a dual threaded mini on their page, apparently all sold out everywhere

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Right on. I will check it out. I have so many filters now I am not sure I need a new one. But if I did, it would likely be the Squeeze. Thanks

[@hiramhaji7813]

Sawyer and a mill bank bag. Been using this system for 10 years now.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Right on. I have made DIY Milbank bags but now I have a commercial one coming to to test and review. Thanks

[@eyeofthetiger4184]

G'day mate, yep a Milbank is a very worthy carry. Just missed out on one of the last of originals back in the day. As far as I know a "Browns" bag is now the only option off the shelf, not cheap though. Cheers Duke.

[@neonsamurai1348]

You should look at the Aquamira Frontier MAX. It is a similar system, but you can fit it with 2 different cartridges, one is a water filter (green), the other is a water purifier (red)(it removes viruses in addition to the rest). It also cuts down on the plastic waste as you don't toss the whole filter assembly, just the filter. Only downside though, it does not come as a complete filtration system with bags and whatever. It is intended as a replacement for an existing system or as an inline filter.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Yes, Gear Skeptic talked about this system in his video. I would like to try it out. Thanks for commenting

[@charlesknight3204]

Mark … Excellent video, my friend!!! Very informative!!! I car camp, meaning I haul my water in and out. It would still be attractive to have a filter that not only removes protozoans and bacteria, but … with an activated charcoal attachment … would act to clean the water of chemical contaminants as well. Great job, Mark!!! God bless!!! Chuck Knight from Buffalo, Texas, USA. 🤠👨‍🌾✝️🙏🖖👍👋

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Hi Chuck. I have found stagnant water to take on a taste even when it starts out clean. The carbon element will help with that as well. Thanks for commenting

[@charlesknight3204]

@@MarkYoungBushcraft Mark …. Amen & amen!!! I discovered the same thing. Wishing you and family all things great and good; take care, be safe and God bless!!! Chuck. 👨‍🌾

[@miriamhawkins7825]

This summer I bought the Sawyer squeeze and I can put a water bottle on each end. It was a lot less than $42 at Walmart.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Right on. Sawyer Squeeze is as goo as it gets. Thanks for commenting

[@patriciaribaric3409]

I believe in having a back up plan always, so having both filters is a great idea. I'm glad you again brought up those easy fill bags. If a bottle was screwed onto both ends how would the water flow without an air vent? When you hang the bag for gravity to work do you hang the bag open? I assume you have to.

[@darthkek1953]

My backup plan would be to boil the water.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Bottle to bottle might create a pressure issue. but the bag collapses as it empties. I most often filter directly to my water bottle. Thanks

[@kerrypattinson4528]

I wish sawyer had a carbon filter attachment. I wonder if the versa flow carbon filter would screw onto the sawyer?

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

I checked to be sure but unfortunately, they won't mate up. I am thinking it might work with the Sawyer Squeeze but I don't have one to check. Thanks for commenting

[@neemancallender9092]

For me the Hydroblue Versaflow has threading both ends, therefore with the Sawyers double thread it can be used as an inline filter

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Being able to put the filter inline is a huge benefit. Thanks

[@THENEWWRANGLER]

iI use s standard lightweight dry bag to collect my dirty water, to that I have added a stop valve connector to the bottom of the bag. iI use a quick connect to attach a drinking tube water line from a bladder,. That line plugs into my sawyer mini. and then into my containers for drinking, a dyi gravity system , i made it based off the best features I found on a number of youtube videos. I have a video on my channel about it, it works great for larger parties, or while in camp. worth checking because the other premade gravity systems are very pricey,

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

I will check out your video. Thanks for commenting

[@jimf1964]

Morning Mark. So two questions. Compared to our Membrane Solutions filter, would these be considered single person vs group, or would there be other reasons to use one over the other. The other is that I noticed that without an inline course filter like my hand powered ones have, they tend to block pretty annoyingly quickly with particulate matter floating in my waters. Have you got any ideas how to give it a quick pre filter? We had two people filling the bag, one pouring and the other holding a bandana, but that was cumbersome and I’m going out alone in a few weeks for a fall hunting trip, so it’ll not be possible, and too dark cold to be getting all wet. Thanks for any ideas.

[@hiramhaji7813]

Mill bank bag is the best light weight pre-filter

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Hi Jim. I have a Milbank bag on the way to test and review. It is about the best pre-filter concept for this type of use. Also working on a DIY idea for inline filters. Stay tuned my friend

[@markcummings6856]

Neither is a winner compared to the Sawyer “Squeeze.”

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

I agree, the Squeeze is the best overall. Thanks

[@daveymorgan909]

Hi Mark. I hope you got through the storm ok. Sounds like it's the worst one for decades. If I know you you will be out volunteering your help☺️ Maybe even your power has gone out. Take care Ok.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

It was a very hard storm for many. We were fortunate where we live as the storm moved east a bit. We lost power for a day and there was considerable damage around the city but others had it much worse. Thanks for asking

[@daveymorgan909]

You are very welcome Sir ☺️ I am glad you are okay. Hopefully these storms don't get worse in the future.

[@brentholladay3113]

I think all Viruses over 100 nm should be okay, if the pore is .1 micron.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Right on. Thanks for commenting

[@northwind7409]

I would think that, if you are using a bottle as a receiver on the Versa Flow, you would be advised to leave the screw connection a bit loose. If you tighten it right down, I'd expect that the air pressure would eventually build up in the bottle to the point that the flow is restricted and ultimately stops. That may be the reason that Sawyer left the threads off. Keep your head down, lad. We'll see you at the other end of the storm.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

I did survive Fiona with only power loss and a few trees down. Yes, pressure would be a problem bottle to bottle but Vecto bag to Vecto bag would work great. Thanks

[@margueritemitchell1829]

Hello from British Columbia Canada 🇨🇦👋👍♥️🌲🌲🧘‍♀️🌲🌲🙂🐇🎩🌈☂️🍎🍏

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Thanks for commenting

[@user-gv7uj1wt6s]

Had 2 sawyer minis. Never used them. Sold them. Went for Katadyn and MSR filters.....

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

They are good choices also. Thanks for commenting

[@redsorgum]

If you put them together, would call it a mini flow? 🫠 I have the Hydroblu filtered bottle, I haven’t used it yet, but I’ve seen it get some goood reviews.

[@MarkYoungBushcraft]

Something like that. The HydorBlu make good stuff for sure