Abstract: The invention relates to: a device for holding a filter pad for water purification; an activated carbon filter for purifying drinking water; a table water filter; a filter system; a method for purifying water; and use of a device with a received filter pad. The device comprises: a frame having a connecting portion for detachably connecting with an inlet container, a holding element arranged within the frame, and forming a receiving region for receiving a filter pad, the receiving region having a height in the direction of the flow direction and a diameter in a radial direction orthogonal to the flow direction, a pressing region for fixing the filter pad, wherein the pressing region is formed by a first pressing element of the holding element and a second pressing element, wherein the first pressing element and the second pressing element are designed and arranged to compress a filter pad.