ENAGIC & KANGEN WATER IONIZERS Pros and Cons

The Enagic Company — History & Background

The Enagic Company grew from a Sony trade company branch and began making water ionizers in 1988. They previously sold machines under the name Ange before rebranding to Enagic. The term "Kangen Water" is a synonym for ionized water.

I’ve personally used one of the original Ange machines, which performed well for alkalizing water. Since then, Enagic increased power and plate count (seven or eight plates on later models) and has historically used platinum-coated titanium plates — a component common to most reputable ionizer manufactures.

Much of Enagic’s retail price is attributable to their distribution model and brand positioning.

Why we don’t sell Enagic (Kangen Water) machines

The Enagic U.S. office requires exclusivity from its independent distributors — meaning a dealer cannot resell other water ionizer brands. Because we carry many brands, Alkaline Water Plus does not carry Enagic machines despite acknowledging they’re well-built.

The Kangen machines feature a fast flow rate and carbon block filtering, and they can produce substantial daily volumes compared with many countertop units. However, exclusivity restrictions and our testing revealing that while they perform reliably, other machines offer higher hydrogen output, broader filtration, or advanced features.

Concerns about MLM and representation

The multi-level marketing (MLM) sales model is lawful, but the exclusivity and commission structure can create conflicts of interest. Some distributors may exaggerate claims or present products in an overly promotional way to increase recruitment and product sales. We recommend assessing performance data and independent test results rather than relying solely on distributor claims.

Are the larger Enagic plates an advantage?

Enagic advertises larger electrode plates. Plate area can aid production, but size alone doesn't guarantee better long-term performance. Size can be a limiting factor, as increased plate area requires higher power delivery.

Factors like electrode coating durability, maintenance/cleaning systems, and overall system engineering matter more. Platinum erosion over time (especially with high power going to the plates and corrosive electrolyte solutions) can reduce performance if not mitigated by design or maintenance.

What’s good about Enagic

• Produces drinking water that many users prefer over unfiltered tap water.
• Has industry certifications and dealer networks.
• Users report perceived health benefits (anecdotal).
• The manufacturer has an established reputation.

Our testing & comparisons (pH, ORP, H₂)

Alkaline Water Plus has performed side-by-side testing of Enagic SD501 and K8 models against other brands (e.g., Smart 9P, AlkaViva H₂ series).

Independent testing shows that Kangen Water Machines perform reliably, but several other brands scored higher in hydrogen output, ORP, and filtration. Some brands advertise top performance claims that are not supported by lab-tested results.

In side-by-side testing, the Jupiter Classic Athena outperformed the Kangen water filter on several key metrics.

To see some comparisons in action, watch the video below and a few more at the bottom of this page.

Summary of controlled comparison

• ORP: Example test values showed Smart 9P slightly stronger (more negative) than Enagic at the same pH.
• H₂ (molecular hydrogen): Smart 9P measured marginally higher in our sampling at the same pH settings.
• Cost: Enagic units are often priced substantially higher than competing machines with similar or better measured performance.

ENAGIC & KANGEN WATER IONIZERS — Pros & Cons

Below is a concise view for shoppers comparing performance and value:

Pros

• Strong brand recognition and dealer support.
• Good flow rate and durability in many batches.
• Carbon block filtration for chlorine taste/odor.

Cons

• Higher price point, often due to distributor margins.
• Filter certifications cover limited contaminant removal vs. multi-stage lab-tested filtration in other brands.
• Exclusivity limits resellers and can reduce consumer price competition.

Summary of Enagic/Kangen Water Ionizers Pros and Cons

While Kangen water, like many other alkaline water ionizers, offers excellent health benefits, it’s important to rely on independent testing and verified data rather than distributor marketing claims. These benefits are not exclusive to Enagic water ionizers, and it’s crucial not to be swayed by deceptive marketing tactics.

Consumers should review independent test data rather than rely solely on distributor claims. And be assured that you can still enjoy the health benefits of ionized water, even if you choose a different brand. 

Filtration performance — AlkaViva H₂ vs Enagic Kangen

Our testing and vendor documentation indicate AlkaViva’s UltraWater filtration is lab-tested for broad contaminant removal; Enagic’s standard filters are typically oriented toward chlorine/taste/odor reduction. For users seeking broad contaminant removal, consider third-party certified multi-stage filters.

AlkaViva H₂ Series (high-level filtration - superior to Enagic)

• Multi-stage/UltraWater filtration, independently tested in certified labs.
• High contaminant removal claims supported by lab reports (see product pages).

Best Enagic Alternatives

While the Enagic K8 and Kangen SD501 perform solidly among water ionizers, our independent lab testing, combined with years of hands-on product evaluation and data analysis, shows that several other models offer superior filtration, molecular hydrogen output, and engineering performance. Learn more about our testing methodology and credentials on our About Us page.

For drinking-focused applications, the AlkaViva Vesta H₂ (counter-top) and Delphi H₂ (under-sink) performed best in our independent tests.

For additional features such as a built-in saline port, extended pH range, and premium design, the Ionia Super S12 stands out among tested models.

All evaluations are based on our independent lab testing and professional observations. For complete details on our methodology and credentialed, see our About Us page.

Qualities of Good Water Ionizers

We’ve been conducting extensive testing of the Enagic SD501 and K8 Kangen Water machines, comparing them to others, for approximately 15 years. Our commitment to independent testing is aimed at providing you with the most accurate and reliable information about Enagic Kangen and all major brands of water ionizers, empowering you to make an Informed decision. See our Water Ionizer Comparisons page.

At Alkaline Water Plus, we’ve tried and tested all of the water ionizers. Our independent testing identifies top-performing water ionizers, such as the AlkaViva H₂ Series (Vesta H₂, Athena H₂, and Delphi H₂), which scored highest on hydrogen production, pH range, and filtration efficiency compared with Kangen models.

Engineering Advancements & Maintenance

AlkaViva H₂ Series Highlights:

• SmartElectrodes with advanced design for efficient, longer-lasting performance.
• The DARC II (Double Automatic Reverse Cleaning) system automatically cleans the electrodes with each use—helping to sustain performance and longevity.
• The AutoAdjust Power Supply (SMPS) dynamically adjusts power delivery for optimal and efficient performance.
• Flow Control Systems and RISC circuitry—for precise flow rate selection and self-diagnosis protection.
• Robust warranties are available, including lifetime parts coverage and a 10-year labor warranty (Athena H₂, Vesta H₂, and Delphi H₂); the Melody II also includes lifetime parts coverage and a 5-year labor warranty.

Enagic Kangen Ionizers:

• Kangen models have not introduced significant engineering updates in recent years, compared with newer ionizers featuring automated cleaning and dynamic power systems.
• Use large, straightforward electrode plates, but lack advanced cleaning systems and innovative power technologies.
• Kangen models feature simple filters and product engineering, requiring occasional maintenance or external filtration for added safety and peace of mind.

More Testing

Comparing of Enagic Kangen Water Machine With Other Water Ionizers

Many less expensive machines perform comparably to the SD501 and K8 for drinking ionized water, based on our independent testing.

For instance, see some testing I did in mid-2024 comparing the Enagic SD501 and the Smart 9P water ionizers. Our tests show that the Smart 9P and Melody II achieve comparable or better pH, ORP, and molecular hydrogen levels than K8 and SD501 units, at a lower cost. (See video below for each of these results.)

• ORP: Enagic was -787, and the Smart was -816, using 9.5 pH water from each machine.
• H₂ (Hydrogen Levels): Enagic tested at 15.71 ppm, and the Smart 9P tested at 16.27 ppm, using 9.5 pH water from each machine.
• Methylene Blue Drops Test: Enagic K8 at 1.0 ppm and the Smart 9P at 1.8 ppm, using 9.5 pH water from each machine.
• PH Range: The Kangen Water did not perform as well for the low-acid byproduct at a drinkable pH of 10.
• Many less expensive machines perform similarly to the SD501 and K8 for drinking ionized water, based on our independent testing.
• Warranty: The two water ionizers are similar in terms of warranty, but the Smart 9P has a slightly better warranty.
• Enagic’s good, though, so don’t get me wrong; I would sell it if they didn’t force exclusivity.

Enagic Kangen Water SD501 Testing of Molecular Hydrogen Levels

In the following video by a Kangen dealer, the tester demonstrates that the SD501 can produce approximately 0.2 ppm (2/10ths) parts per million of hydrogen.

These are just mundane results compared to the hundreds of water ionizers I have tested over the years.

Enagic K8 Kangen Water Machine Testing

I often demonstrate that you don’t need to spend $4,000 or $5,000 to achieve suitable pH, ORP, and Molecular Hydrogen results.

Even the inexpensive Smart Water Ionizer is better than the K8 Kangen water filter ionizer in producing molecular hydrogen (H₂). They both produce the same results for pH and ORP. In other words, high-quality hydrogen-rich water can be obtained from several tested ionizers at a lower price point than Kangen models. This affordability ensures that you can enjoy the health benefits of ionized water without incurring significant costs.

Thanks to its sodium port, the Super-S12 stands out among other water ionizers. It’s comparable to the K8 Kangen and significantly better in every aspect, including the production of strong, acidic water.

The Melody II water ionizer is also better than the K8 machine. Not only does the testing show it’s better, but it features better filtration, UltraWater filters, continuous cleaning, a better warranty, and a significantly lower price than the Kangen machine.

Read more about my water ionizer comparisons, designed to empower you with knowledge and help you make an informed decision.

The Best Options for Water Ionizers

All tested alkaline water machines produce reliable hydrogen-rich water. Our Water Ionizers and Filters page sorts them by overall performance based on our independent testing. You can also explore our reviews page for more in-depth comparisons and detailed analysis to help you make an informed choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Enagic Kangen water better than other ionizers?

Independent testing shows Enagic performs reliably, but certain non-MLM competitors achieve higher hydrogen and filtration metrics with better trial periods and warranties.

Why is the Enagic Kangen machine expensive?

A significant portion of the retail price reflects distributor commissions and the MLM structure, beyond manufacturing costs.

What is Kangen Water?

"Kangen" is a Japanese term, meaning "return to origin". It's a trademark of Enagic and a synonym for ionized water.