Katadyn Vario Microfilter

Katadyn Vario Microfilter's two-mode design lets you opt between fast filtration or extended lifetime of the primary filter (up to 500 gallons!)
Vario features a two-filter system; one is a 0.3-micron, pleated glassfiber filter used to remove waterborne bacteria and cysts 
Secondary ceramic filter, engaged with a simple twist of the casing, is used to prefilter debris in dirty water away from primary filter 
Keeping turbid water away from the primary filter effectively extends its usable life 
Vario is also a high-output system, filtering up to two quarts per minute in "fast flow mode" (filtering clean water with ceramic filter disengaged) 
In "longer life mode" (ceramic filter engaged), unit produces one quart per minute 
Replaceable carbon keeps water tasting fresh and reduces chemicals, toxins and odors through the life of the cartridge 
Dual-piston technology minimizes the effort required to pump water through the system
Unit attaches directly to standard, wide-mouth bottles (not included) for filling; output hose accommodates hydration systems and large containers 
Includes two bags of replaceable carbon, prefilter, cleaning pad, lubricant and carry bag
Imported.

Output and longevity specifications based on information provided by the manufacturer. Pleated filter comes with a prefilled carbon core. Both filter and carbon are independently replaceable. Carbon can be changed when the taste of water changes. (Carbon typically becomes ineffective after six months of use or approximately 200 liters.) Field cleanable ceramic prefilter should be replaced when completely worn.


The new Katadyn Vario water filter combines the benefits of a ceramic filter with those of a pleated filter by allowing you to choose whichever filtering mode is best for the water you're treating. When filtering dirty or silty water, the ceramic filter can be engaged, slowing the flow rate of the filter, but lengthening the effective life of the primary pleated filter.

The Vario contains three distinct filtering elements:

A ceramic disc prefilter.

A pleated glassfiber primary filter.

A replaceable carbon core.

In longer life mode, water passes through all three filter elements at a rate of up to 1 liter per minute. As the name implies, this mode lengthens the effective life of the pleated filter by first forcing water through the ceramic prefilter. When used in dirty water, the ceramic filter catches the worst of the contaminants. The idea is that this prefiltering will keep the pleated filter from clogging prematurely. 

In faster flow mode, the Vario can treat up to 2 liters per minute, bypassing the ceramic prefilter and relying on the pleated filter. In areas where the water is mostly free of suspended solids, the pleated filter can work quickly without fear of clogging.

Switching between modes is straightforward: just unscrew the top of the pump to reveal the ceramic disk housing. A twist of the housing switches between longer life and faster flow. The mode names are molded into the plastic housing and the selected mode is visible through a cutout in the filter body.

In both modes, the filtered water also passes through the Vario's carbon core, which removes chemical contaminates. All three filter elements ceramic, pleated, and carbon are replaceable individually, and the ceramic prefilter can be cleaned in the field.

The Vario has a couple other innovative design features, most notably a dual-piston pump design which moves water through the filter on both the up and down stokes, providing increased flow into the filter and a smooth, consistent pumping action. The piston and handle assembly breaks down easily for cleaning.

On the output end, the Vario will mate with the threads on a standard Nalgene bottle. Alternatively you can attach the hose from your hydration bladder, with or without removing the filter's bottom cap.

One might expect all of this technology to come with a serious weight penalty. But at Katadyn's claimed weight of 15 ounces, the Vario is an ounce lighter than the popular MSR MiniWorks EX.

Chris Voxland, Katadyn's vice president of operations, said that the Vario is expected to have the broadest appeal of any filter in the Katadyn line, and he expects it to compete directly with the MiniWorks EX. The Vario won an ispo Outdoor Award at its European debut.