So which one is “better”? Honestly, neither is universally superior. It’s like asking if a SUV or a sports car is better—it depends on the road. If you want less maintenance and cleaner tank bottoms, pick pellets. If you want faster dissolution and lower cost, pick crystals. The real loser is the salt that’s full of impurities or just cheap table salt—stay far away from that stuff.
Oh, and one last thing: don’t overthink it. I spent two weeks researching this, and my friend just threw in whatever was on sale. His water is soft, his dishes are spotless, and he doesn’t even know his softener’s brand. So grab a bag, clean your tank once a year, and go live your best, soft-water life. You’ve got this. (And if you still can’t decide, flip a coin—your softener will forgive you.)
