Sawyer Filters	Sand Filters
Size	4-inches by 2-inches.	A large container filled with sand, anywhere from 0.5 meters to 5+ meters in diameter with a minimum depth of 2 meters of sand.
Weight	Weighs < 8 ounces.	Anywhere from 100 to 140+ pounds.
Flow Rates	Average flow rate is about 1.0 liter per minute.	Depends on the size of the Sand Filter. Flow rate is claimed to be as high as 0.6 liter per minute.
Removal Rates	Constant 0.1 micron that never varies.	Varies depending upon the quality of the sand and the age of the bio-film. Testing needs to be preformed after every cleaning to ensure proper removal rates.
Ease of Set-up	Simple instructions that anyone can understand. Potable water in less than a few minutes.	Set up requires skilled personnel. Biological layer needs 2 weeks to form.
Skill Level to Operate	Simple enough for a child to operate.	Requires complex training in cleaning and maintenance.
Reliability	True barrier filtration will not fail regardless of water temperature or water content.	Several factors play into the growth of the bio-layer. Cold temperature will inhibit its growth and performance; also a lack of nutrients in the water will reduce its effectiveness. And without constant water, the bio-layer will dry out and die.
Cleaning	Use included syringe to backwash filter; takes less than 2 minutes.	Must be cleaned regularly, and top layer of fine sand replaced after several cleanings. After cleaning, bio-layer needs several days to re-grow.
Lifetime	Capable of lasting 10+ years.	Depends on the materials available.
Will work if dried out?	YES	No
Will work in cold weather?	YES	Not always. Cold temperatures can inhibit the growth of the bio-layer.
How many can fit in a suitcase?	Over 100	None