The alternative to a leaky bottle is to find one that
doesn't leak! Let me explain. I too have tried all types/brands of water bottles and it didn't matter how much I paid for it, whether it was plastic or glass, or how highly one of our Forum members recommended it. I still encountered leaky bottles.
You know what I use? A plain old generic plastic bottle from
Petco. Most pet stores (especially if they sell fish) will have a sink nearby. With an employee's permission (and oftentimes their help), I try out any prospective new bottles BEFORE I buy them. I fill the bottles right there at the sink and if they dribble at all,
no purchase. If they are satisfactory, then I buy them, often two at a time so that I have a backup.
If the store is reluctant to permit you to use the sink, then take a large bottle of water with you when you go to shop for bottles. The instant that you exit the store with your purchase, fill the bottle with water and test it out right then and there. If it leaks, walk right back into the store and exchange it. I once did this right outside the front door in full view of the store personnel.......and entering customers. I think everyone got my point. There is nothing that I hate more than having to drive all the way back to the pet store for a leaky $15 water bottle.
To add to
@wheekermommy's comments, be very sure that the ring/seal inside is seated well and tap the ball to start the flow. I sometimes simultaneously tap the ball plus lightly squeeze the bottle. Works for me.