They work but not very practical. A sawyer mini with the plunger and a 1 gallon bladder weights about the same as a life straw and is about as compact. Plus you have a bladder it attaches to so you don’t have to lay on your stomach every time you want a drink and can actually use the water for other stuff since you don’t have to suck to filter. And extra water storage is always a positive!
Agree on the freezing comment. I usually hit mine with air from the plunger and sleep with it if temp is an issue. If you’re not backpacking, there are way better options.