Core Insights - The water purifier market has seen significant price drops and increased competition due to the entry of major appliance brands like Xiaomi, Midea, and Haier, leading to a rapid decline in average prices for under-sink RO purifiers [1] - The market for under-sink purifiers is becoming saturated, with penetration rates in China nearing 30%, while the remaining potential in lower-tier markets is limited [1][4] - Manufacturers are shifting focus to desktop water purifiers, which have lower market penetration and cater to consumers who prefer convenience without installation hassles [4][5] Market Dynamics - The average price of under-sink RO purifiers has decreased from 2,000-3,000 yuan to around 1,000 yuan, with many brands competing on features, lifespan, and cost of consumables [1] - Desktop purifiers are gaining traction due to their ease of use, requiring no installation and fitting into various living spaces, making them appealing to renters and those in small apartments [5][7] - The desktop water purifier market is expected to grow significantly, with major brands investing in this segment and introducing multifunctional products [13][16] Consumer Preferences - Young consumers are increasingly attracted to desktop purifiers for their convenience and multifunctionality, such as heating and cooling capabilities [8][12] - The cost-effectiveness of desktop purifiers is highlighted, with long-lasting filters reducing the cost of water to mere cents per liter [15] - Despite some drawbacks, such as lower purification efficiency compared to under-sink models, the convenience and additional features of desktop purifiers align well with modern consumer needs [12][16] Competitive Landscape - The competition in the desktop purifier market is intensifying, with brands differentiating through innovative features like self-cleaning and AI water quality detection [15][16] - The market is witnessing a shift towards integrated solutions, combining under-sink and desktop purifiers to meet diverse consumer needs [18] - Sales of desktop purifiers are projected to grow over 60% year-on-year, indicating a strong demand for enhanced drinking water experiences [16]