Waterpik Aquarius Countertop Water Flosser vs Waterpik ION Rechargeable Water Flosser

Amazon's review summary says durability gets negative feedback, with multiple customers saying the pump stops working after about a year. Wirecutter says there are more reports of it breaking down or getting caked with mold than it would like, though it found the unit reliable in long-term testing.

CNN Underscored found its flow powerful but much harsher than the ION's and its motor very noisy, so it didn't pick it. Electric Teeth found the noise pretty average, at up to 72 dB, despite Waterpik's ultra-quiet claim.

Wirecutter says it takes up more counter space than its other picks, partly because of the bulky power cord, and has to stay plugged in. CNET calls it the largest model on its list. Electric Teeth notes there's nowhere to stow the excess cable.

Amazon's review summary says battery life and reliability get mixed feedback: some owners say it stopped working after two weeks, and others say units break after 10 months. 12% of Amazon ratings are 1-star. On Electric Teeth, a reader who ran three units at high intensity reported lifespans of 4-12 months; the reviewer called that far worse than expected and suggested a warranty claim.

CNN Underscored calls it miniature-jackhammer loud, its only real gripe. Wirecutter says it sounds a little harsher than most flossers, at about electric-razor volume. Electric Teeth measured about 79-80 dB and calls it quite loud.

Electric Teeth found the nozzle harder to rotate than on rivals and the small handle slightly awkward, and says it is too bulky for travel. Wirecutter notes there is no onboard place to store the extra tips.