Best On The Go Water Softeners: 2 Models Compared
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
This guide compares the best on the go water softeners from On The Go. We analyzed 2 models to help you choose the right unit. The brand focuses on compact, portable designs for RVers and travelers. These units are built for drinking water safety and outdoor use. The On The Go 16,000 Grain Portable Softener leads as the best overall pick. It suits RVers needing portable soft water with a compact footprint. Our selections rely strictly on published specifications. We look at dimensions like width, height, and length. We also check weight and capacity data. This approach ensures you get a practical comparison. You can find the right softener for your needs.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | On The Go 16,000 Grain Portable Softener Best overall | RVers needing portable soft water | Check price of On The Go 16,000 Grain Portable Softener on Amazon |
| 2 | On The Go 16,000 Grain RV Softener Best budget | RV owners needing high capacity | Check price of On The Go 16,000 Grain RV Softener on Amazon |
Our 2 picks
On The Go 16,000 Grain Portable Softener
Best for: RVers needing portable soft water
- Grain Capacity
- 16,000 Grain
- Tank Dimensions
- 10 in x 24 in
- Installation Type
- Portable/RV
- Use
- Drinking Water
- Dimensions
- 10 × 10 × 24 inches
View on Amazon: On The Go 16,000 Grain Portable Softener Affiliate link
This On The Go unit is a portable water softener designed specifically for RVs. It offers a 16,000-grain capacity to treat hard water. The compact tank measures 10 by 24 inches, fitting standard RV spaces. It includes a drinking water safety feature. You should use this if you travel in an RV and need reliable soft water for your shower and sink.
Pros
- 16,000 grain ion exchange capacity
- Compact 10 x 24 inch tank size
- Portable design for RV use
- Includes drinking water safety feature
Cons
- Not suitable for apartments or condos
- Does not fit under kitchen sinks
- Exclusively designed for RV applications
Good fit if
- You travel in an RV regularly
- You need a portable softening solution
- You want drinking water safety features
Skip if
- You live in a house or condo
- You need under-sink installation
- You require a fixed residential unit
Verdict: On The Go 16k Grain Portable Softener fits RV travelers who need a compact, 16,000-grain softener. It suits those who prioritize portability and drinking water safety over whole-house coverage.
On The Go 16,000 Grain RV Softener
Best for: RV owners needing high capacity
- Grain Capacity
- 16,000 grain
- Tank Dimensions
- 22 in H x 9.50 in dia
- Installation Type
- Portable/RV
- Dimensions
- 10 × 10 × 24 inches
- Weight
- 32 pounds
View on Amazon: On The Go 16,000 Grain RV Softener Affiliate link
This portable unit offers a 16,000 grain capacity, delivering up to 1,600 gallons of soft water depending on source hardness. Its compact 22-inch height and 9.5-inch diameter fit tight RV spaces. It uses standard garden hose connections without tools or electricity. The design includes a carry handle and movable base for stability. It is built for RV and marine use by U.S. workers.
Pros
- 16,000 grain capacity provides up to 1,600 gallons of soft water
- Compact 22-inch height and 9.5-inch diameter fit tight spaces
- No tools or electricity required for installation
- Standard garden hose connection for easy setup
- Movable base ensures stability on uneven ground
Cons
- Limited to RV and marine applications, not for showers or sinks
- Heavy at 32 pounds, requiring manual handling
- Regeneration requires 2 boxes of common table salt
Good fit if
- You need a high-capacity softener for long RV stays
- You want a tool-free installation using standard hoses
- You have limited storage space in your RV
Skip if
- You need a unit for indoor shower or sink use
- You prefer electric or automated regeneration systems
- You require a lightweight unit under 20 pounds
Verdict: On The Go 16,000 Grain Portable RV Softener suits RV owners needing high capacity and compact design for outdoor use.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | On The Go 16,000 Grain Portable Softener | On The Go 16,000 Grain RV Softener |
|---|---|---|
| Grain Capacity | 16,000 Grain | 16,000 grain |
| Tank Dimensions | 10 in x 24 in | 22 in H x 9.50 in dia |
| Installation Type | Portable/RV | Portable/RV |
| Design | Portable | Portable |
| Use | Drinking Water | RV |
| Dimensions | 10 × 10 × 24 inches | 10 × 10 × 24 inches |
| Weight | not stated | 32 pounds |
| Size | not stated | 368 Ounce (Pack of 1) |
On The Go Water Softener Options
The On The Go lineup offers two compact softeners for portable use. Both units share identical dimensions of 10 by 10 by 24 inches. They are designed for RVers and travelers who need space-saving solutions. The On The Go 16,000 Grain Portable Softener fits those prioritizing drinking water safety. It is a compact choice for mobile living.
The On The Go 16,000 Grain RV Softener adds a 32-pound weight specification. This model suits owners needing high capacity for outdoor use. Shoppers comparing these units should note the shared 16,000-grain capacity. Both designs emphasize portability over whole-house coverage. Choose the first option for general portable needs. Select the second if you require specific RV compatibility details.
Who On The Go Fits Best
This range suits RVers and travelers who need portable soft water. The units share identical 10 by 10 by 24 inch dimensions. The top pick targets drinking water safety. The second model offers high capacity for general RV use. Both are compact and space-saving. You should know that neither unit covers whole-house needs. There are no larger models for stationary homes. The lineup is strictly for mobile living. If you require fixed installation, this brand does not offer a suitable option. Stick to these portable designs for your vehicle.
How to Choose the Right Softener
-
Check Grain Capacity
You must verify the ion exchange capacity before buying. The On The Go 16,000 Grain Portable Softener offers 16,000 grains of hardness removal. This figure determines how many gallons of water the unit can treat before regeneration is needed. Higher grain counts allow for longer periods between salt refills. You should match this number to your daily water usage. If you travel frequently, a higher capacity reduces maintenance stops. Compare this spec against your estimated monthly consumption to ensure the unit lasts long enough for your trips.
-
Verify Physical Dimensions
Space is limited in most recreational vehicles. You need to check the exact footprint of the unit. Both models listed here share identical dimensions of 10 by 10 by 24 inches. This compact size fits into small storage compartments or under sinks. Measure your available space carefully before purchasing. A unit that is too large will not fit in your designated spot. The uniform dimensions mean you can swap units without changing your storage layout. Always confirm these measurements against your specific RV or travel trailer constraints.
-
Assess Weight Limits
Portability depends heavily on the total weight of the unit. One model weighs 32 pounds. You must consider if you can lift this weight safely. A lighter unit is easier to move for maintenance or storage. Heavier units may require more effort to handle. Check the weight specification in the data. If you have mobility issues or limited strength, the lighter option is safer. Ensure your vehicle can support the added load during travel. Weight impacts how easily you can manage the softener on the road.
-
Define Water Use
Determine if you need soft water for drinking or general use. The first model is explicitly noted for drinking water safety. The second is marked for general RV use. You should select based on your primary need. If you plan to drink the softened water directly, choose the unit verified for that purpose. If you only need it for showers and sinks, the general use model may suffice. This distinction affects your health and safety. Always check the designated use case to ensure the unit meets your specific requirements.
-
Consider Portability Design
You need a unit that is easy to transport. Both models feature a portable design. This means they are not fixed installations. You can move them between locations or store them when not in use. Look for handles or compact shapes in the design specs. A portable design allows you to take soft water wherever you go. This is essential for RVers who move frequently. Ensure the design allows for easy connection and disconnection. A truly portable unit simplifies your travel routine significantly.
Frequently asked questions
How much does the On The Go 16,000 Grain Portable Softener weigh?
The On The Go 16,000 Grain RV Softener weighs 32 pounds. This weight helps keep the unit stable during travel. The second model in the lineup includes this specific weight specification. The top pick does not list a weight in its published data. You should consider this mass when planning storage in your RV.
What are the dimensions of these portable softeners?
Both models measure 10 inches in width, 10 inches in length, and 24 inches in height. This compact footprint allows for easy storage in small RV compartments. The identical dimensions mean either unit fits into similar spaces. You can rely on these exact measurements for planning your setup.
Is the On The Go softener good for drinking water?
Yes, the top-rated model is explicitly designed for drinking water. The first pick targets RVers who prioritize drinking water safety. It provides a compact solution for safe hydration on the road. The second model focuses on general RV use rather than specific drinking water applications. Check the intended use for your needs.
Which On The Go softener is best for RVers?
The On The Go 16,000 Grain RV Softener is labeled as the best RV option. It offers high capacity suitable for general RV use. This model is designed for outdoor use and portability. The top pick is better if you need a unit specifically for drinking water safety. Choose based on whether you need general or drinking water treatment.
What is the grain capacity of these units?
Both models feature a 16,000 grain ion exchange capacity. This capacity determines how many gallons of hard water the unit can treat before regeneration. The high capacity supports extended use for RV travelers. This figure is consistent across the On The Go portable lineup. It ensures effective hardness removal for portable applications.
Are these softeners portable for travel?
Yes, both units are designed as portable softeners. They feature a compact design suitable for RVers and travelers. The small dimensions and manageable weight make them easy to transport. These units are built for on-the-go water treatment. You can easily move them between different camping locations or RV setups.