Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.
Platypus GravityWorks 4L comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.5 vs 4.6). The gap is mostly about backpacking groups of 3+ — read the strengths below before deciding.
The TrailShot is the shallow-water pick — MSR's pump filter that works in puddles and small streams.
The GravityWorks 4L is the group pick — best for filtering large volumes hands-free for multiple people.
Pump-action. Works in shallow water. Hand fatigue.
Best for groups. Gravity-fed. Most expensive.
| Spec | MSR TrailShot | Platypus GravityWorks 4L |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Pump | Gravity |
| Weight | 5 oz | — |
| Source | Shallow capable | — |
| Brand | MSR | Platypus |
| Capacity | — | 4L |
| Flow | — | Fast |