Editor's Choice - Our Favorite 12v Aquarium Air Pumps

1. Pawfly 254-285 GPH Commercial Air Pump 2-4 Outlets Manifold Quiet Oxygen Aerator Pump for Aquarium P...

User Ratings: 79 3

Pawfly First Impressions

"It has a strong current!"

And there are fixes around all of it. I knew I had to try something else. I found calcium deposits were clogging the bottom where the air was supposed to exit. The new unit works fine as a secondary air pump in a 75 gallon fresh water aquarium. I was going to buy 3 small air pumps to power 9 sponge filters when I saw this pump. Larger tank owners won't have my issues. I cleaned the sponge and hooked it all back up, hardly any air was coming out.

  • Pawfly 254-285 GPH Commercial Air Pump 2-4 Outlets Manifold Quiet Oxygen Aerator Pump for Aquarium Pond/Outdoor Fishing
  • Lots of Air: Dual Outlets deliver 285 gallon per hour for fish breath or root growth with 8.5 W low consumption. Max Pressure: 0.025 MPa.
  • For Emergency: Built-in 1 pack of replaceable 4,000 mAh lithium battery provides up to 6 h continuous working time or 40 h intermittent working when power outage. 3 battery pack slots allow you to add 2 more pack if needed.
  • AC/DC Power Supply: With AC 110-240V universal wall adapter, it can be used as in multiple countries and regions. Moreover, it can also be used DC 12V cigarette lighter power supply in your car.
  • 2 Working Modes: One button easy operation system, long press 3-5s to start, press again to switch mode.The default continuous mode for steady air flow output while the intermittent mode is great for saving energy.
  • Extra Silent: Extremely quiet operation with multi-level internal muffler. 4 shockproof rubber pads help reduce noise and keep it steady. Put the pump in a cabinet or under a proctective cover when used outdoors.
  • Manufacture: Pawfly
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Pawfly
  • Pump Power [star rating='5']
  • Quality [star rating='4.1']
  • Value For Money [star rating='5']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.5']

Pawfly Final Thoughts

"It's as like as two peas."

Sometimes stopping all together if the water is full. Seems very well built, does as advertised. I have one running to sponge filters in a tank and it pushing a nice air flow. If it craps out anytime soon, I'll update the review. I didn't think I’d be impressed by an air pump but I’m pleasantly surprised. The pressure isn't as great as I hoped. Though the 18W model isn't so loud that it can only be used outside.

Overall Score
4.6

[star rating="4.6"]
(496 Points)

Peoples Choice - Other Highly Rated 12v Aquarium Air Pumps

2. Roomax Quiet Powerful Bubble Oxygen Pump 2 Air Vents for Aquarium Fishing Tank Connect Car Cigarette...

User Ratings: 73 3

Roomax 0806-AP202-1 First Impressions

"I DID soak the stones."

For a solid working, quiet pump, this is about as good as it gets. The first time I ordered this product, it did not work properly. Pay a bit more but the quality is worth it. It could easily run a small fish room. Sometimes stopping all together if the water is full. Great Product, BUT, its noisy and vibrates like mad on its rubber feet. It has two places to hook up tubing to.

  • Roomax Quiet Powerful Bubble Oxygen Pump 2 Air Vents for Aquarium Fishing Tank Connect Car Cigarette Lighter with Bubble Stones & Tubes
  • Roomax 12v dc aerator bubble pump run power from car battery when driving,can also insert the socket indoors, connect 12V storage battery through the battery clip when fishing outdoors.
  • Roomax aquarium oxygen air pump is adjustable air flow,double outlets,ultra silent,whisper,anti skip,It can use in fish tank bowl up to 50"x50"x50".
  • It applies both salt water and fresh water.Low power consumption and stable performance,high-efficiency and long operating life.
  • Accessories attachments:1 x 118 inches cigarette lighter Adapter transformer,2pcs premium air stones,2 x 40 inches silicone air hoses.Because of black color,it will see little scratch on the surface.
  • Quality guaranteed.It will keep live baits fishes and aquatic organism alive.Also avoid electricity power failure when using aquarium.
  • Manufacture: Xingheng
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Roomax 0806-AP202-1
  • Pump Power [star rating='5']
  • Quality [star rating='4.4']
  • Value For Money [star rating='5']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.9']

Roomax 0806-AP202-1 Final Thoughts

"This is the 40."

I have two of these running in my kitchen and my living room is right next to it. But if it's in another room, it’s not bad at all. I hung it so its not touching anything. All the reviews from all the different models are lumped together. Kudo to them for backing up their product. My first one may have been a lemon. I own Whisper 10, 150, 300, Eheim 400, and Fusion 700.

Overall Score
4.4

[star rating="4.4"]
(32 Points)

User Ratings: 49 23

HEALiNK First Impressions

"And my home is clean!"

Yes it obviously makes some noise-but not at all as much as I was anticipating. The added tubing and manifold make this an even better value. Larger tank owners won't have my issues. Overall seems like a good air pump. If it craps out anytime soon, I'll update the review. Danner, Fusion, Eheim are adjustable. So I completely disassembled the sponge holder.

  • HEALiNK DC 12V 160LPM/Min 2536GPH 120W Aquarium Air Pumps Aquaculture Fish pood Pressure Compressor Aerator
  • ✔ Voltage: DC 12V // Power: 120W // Pressure: 0.12MPa // Output: 160L/min // Divider: 10 outlets ♥For clear and right selection, Please refer to MODEL PARAMETER DIAGRAM or BELOW DESCRIPTION.
  • ✔ ENERGY SAVING - High-efficiency permanent magnet DC motor as the driver without oil lubrication. It produces purer compressed air when connect to the storage batteries. Internal parts and cables are 100% copper.
  • ✔ PREMIUM QUALITY - The working membrane is made of macromolecule compounded rubber. Adoptions of pound-resisting diaphragms, advanced ball bearings, balance centrifugal shaftes, and aluminium alloy shell ensure the pump to work long.
  • ✔ WIDE USAGE - Ideal to increase water circulation and oxygen levels. Extensively used in aquaculture breeding and oxygen supply for seafood in hotels, restaurants, seafood booth, fish farms and, hydroponic systems etc. Also applied in short-distance transport of live aquatic products. Also used for air supply to spare parts of food machine, medical instrument, belching lamp and new type paint, making and designing advertising LPG and LNG etc.
  • ✔ This is DC pump, which shouble be connect to storage battery for using! No plug to contact with AC. ♥24 hrs online friendly customer service, quick reply. we'll respond within 12 hours to make it right.
  • Voltage: DC 12V
  • Power: 120W
  • Pressure: 0.12MPa
  • Manufacture: Dongguan TO International Trade Co., Ltd
  • Editor's Impressions Of The HEALiNK
  • Pump Power [star rating='4.1']
  • Quality [star rating='2.6']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.5']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.4']

HEALiNK Final Thoughts

"This is both."

I was wrong it has enough power to run all 9 with air to spare. I was wrong it has enough power to run all 9 with air to spare. All the reviews from all the different models are lumped together. I found calcium deposits were clogging the bottom where the air was supposed to exit. It really is pretty quiet- once you unclog the air pathway. After 3 weeks, I received a new one in the mail. I use this on a 5-way valve for a 75 gallon tank.

Overall Score
3.6

[star rating="3.6"]
(30 Points)

4. Micro Air Pump - DC 12V Micro Vacuum Pump, Electric Mini Air Pumping Booster for Treatment Instrumen...

User Ratings: 57 11

DEWIN First Impressions

"This is the 40."

The added tubing and manifold make this an even better value. I was wrong it has enough power to run all 9 with air to spare. I got the bigger size because I used it in my 450 gallon tank and it's perfect. Colbert, the reviewer above, for explaining how to do this. This happened to me with this unit. This air pump is quiet and well worth the price the listing is going for. I have to put my head behind the tank to hear it!

  • Micro Air Pump - DC 12V Micro Vacuum Pump, Electric Mini Air Pumping Booster for Treatment Instrument
  • Mini electric vacuum pump with high air flow for good performance.
  • Vacuum pump is made of premium aluminium and plastic, it is corrosion resistant and durable in use.
  • Mini size design of pump, with inlet and outlet on its body.
  • Electric air pump is easy to install, provide much convenience.
  • Air pressure pump is widely used in air sampling, instruments and equipment and industry, home appliances and other fields.
  • Manufacture: Dewin
  • Item Weight: 2.11 ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The DEWIN
  • Pump Power [star rating='3']
  • Quality [star rating='3.6']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.9']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.6']

DEWIN Final Thoughts

"Super quiet and powerful."

I use this on a 5-way valve for a 75 gallon tank. The pressure isn't as great as I hoped. I have an undergravel filter and a few other accessories that push air too. If that is true-then no wonder this is pretty quiet! I added a check valve to my airline tubing and works as expected. However Once you plug it to the Oxy tubes it is Silent! Kudo to them for backing up their product.

Overall Score
4.0

[star rating="4"]
(26 Points)

Honorable Mentions - More Top Selling 12v Aquarium Air Pumps

5. Carefree Fish Aquarium Battery AC/DC 4400mAh USB Air Pump Outdoor Fishing Indoor Supper Quiet

User Ratings: 50 10

Carefree Fish Lithium2 First Impressions

"Wish didn't have to."

For a solid working, quiet pump, this is about as good as it gets. The pump works well when there is no defects. Provides proper wattage for all my accessories. Great Product, BUT, its noisy and vibrates like mad on its rubber feet. I have this in our small aquarium with an LED bubble stone. The rubber bottom feet really help to keep the unit quite and in one place. Works well in my 75 gal tank running a 36 inch bubble stick!

  • Carefree Fish Aquarium Battery AC/DC 4400mAh USB Air Pump Outdoor Fishing Indoor Supper Quiet
  • ❤20dB very Quiet,3W,18Kpa,1.5L/Min,12V low voltage, super power saving, can be connected to the USE of USB cable, in the case of power failure, it can continue to work for 20 hours, choose the intermittent mode, it can continue to work for 42 hours, it can also be connected to the use of charging treasure, can ensure that the fish in the case of power failure still have enough oxygen, can also become your outdoor fishing good helper.
  • ❤There is a special device inside, which will not affect the service life of lithium battery when used on power. When power is cut off, the air pump will continue to use lithium battery for power supply, so please rest assured.
  • ❤With strong power, two of Carefree Fish 2In HT50 nano air stone dsic can be used at the same time. If the air output of the nano air stone is not uniform, please soak the air stone in water for 24 hours before use. In this case, there is no problem with the air stone or insufficient air pump power.
  • ❤Touch screen control of alltempered glass.The tempered glass touch screen is easy to use with the first long press open, Switch between continuous mode and gap mode with a single short click, and the long press close, but please note that the air pump is not waterproof
  • ❤❤❤Equipped with a special device, the use of direct current will not affect the life of the lithium battery.You can just use it as a normal air pump.If you cut off the power, it will continue to work on the battery.
  • Manufacture: Carefree Fish
  • Product Dimensions: 5.51 x 4.53 x 2.36 inches; 8.82 Ounces
  • Batteries: 1 Lithium ion batteries required. (included)
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Carefree Fish Lithium2
  • Pump Power [star rating='4.9']
  • Quality [star rating='4.7']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.1']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.5']

Carefree Fish Lithium2 Final Thoughts

"Don't buy the Whisper 10!"

I knew I had to try something else. I use them in my Tilapia tanks and Koi pond. This is actually the second one I have purchased. I have to unplug it every time I want to shut it off. It pumps out enough air to keep millions of air bubbles going in this 200g+ Aquarium! I'm not going to knock the product for my own paranoia though. It has one air outlet so i used a spliter& ran a tube to each end of bubbler.

Overall Score
4.0

[star rating="4"]
(13 Points)

User Ratings: 35 36

HEALiNK k009 First Impressions

"It is extremely quiet."

This seems to be a good little pump that really puts out some air! The air being pumped out can be quite warm as well. I use them in my Tilapia tanks and Koi pond. Just bought and started using it a few days ago. Ordered this air pump to replace one of my other pumps and the difference is amazing. These work better than any of the others I have tried in my price point. Larger tank owners won't have my issues.

  • HEALiNK DC 12V 38LPM/Min 602GPH Aquarium Air Pumps Compressor Aerator 18W for Aquaculture Fish Pond
  • ★OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE - Multi-purpose portable aquarium air pump can provide 0.06MPa pressure inflatable. Use is very convenient. Quality and workmanship are very superb, in line with international standards. Without oil lubrication, it is clean compressed air.
  • ★MULTI-FUNCTION - The product is using energy-saving, high efficiency permanent magnet DC motor as the driver, with aluminium alloy shell by die-casting machine, compact structure, small size, light weight and easy to carry, making it the ideal tool for your athletic balls or aquarium(12 volt). OUTPUT: 38LPM/Min POWER: 18W VOLTAGE: DC 12V PRESSURE: 0.06MPa. Size:177x98x127mm
  • ★METAL PORTABLE AQUACULTURE AIR PUMP - Internal parts and cables are 100% copper, direct-drive motor makes the drive low rotating speed, high efficiency, compact, quiet and stability, and easy to control.
  • ★EASY TO INSTALL - Easy setup and operation, safe and stable; Intelligent, energy saving, environmental protection. Be suitable for living fishes in vehicles, restaurants and industry. Hydroponics, Aquariums, Fish Farms and Hydroponic Systems, Dusting, Inflation, Manufacture. It's also used for air supply to spare parts of food machine, medical instrument, belching lamp and new type paint, making and designing advertising LPG and LNG etc.
  • ★NOTICE - This is DC pumps, contact with DC, there is no plug to contact with AC.
  • Manufacture: Dongguan TO International Trade Co., Ltd
  • Editor's Impressions Of The HEALiNK k009
  • Pump Power [star rating='2.2']
  • Quality [star rating='3.5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.1']
  • Affordability [star rating='2.3']

HEALiNK k009 Final Thoughts

"Definitely reccomend!"

This runs pretty darn quiet for a high output air pump. I have been in the hobby for 20+ years and this is the best air pump! I was wrong it has enough power to run all 9 with air to spare. I have the pump hooked up to a large sponge. But this one has no noticeable sounds. They don't even vibrate the old school plastic tank hanger mounts they sit on. I just cleaned my 20 tank for the first time in, well too long.

Overall Score
3.0

[star rating="3"]
(11 Points)

7. DC 12V Portable Fish Tank Pond Aquaculture Hydroponics Aquarium Air Pump Compressor Aerator 60W 120L...

User Ratings: 60

Tsofu First Impressions

"JUST BUY THEM!"

The pump works very well in my 75G tank. Provides proper wattage for all my accessories. I couldn't even think to do my work. The motor was working but air was not moving. This seems to be a good little pump that really puts out some air! I'm sure it would run a much larger bubble stick also. I will just keep the old one for parts should I need it.

  • DC 12V Portable Fish Tank Pond Aquaculture Hydroponics Aquarium Air Pump Compressor Aerator 60W 120LPM/Min 1902GPH, Oxygen Supplies
  • ★OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE - Multi-purpose portable aquarium air pump can provide 0.08MPa pressure inflatable. Use is very convenient. Quality and workmanship are very superb, in line with international standards. Without oil lubrication, it is clean compressed air.
  • ★MULTI-FUNCTION - The product is using energy-saving, high efficiency permanent magnet DC motor as the driver, with aluminium alloy shell by die-casting machine, compact structure, small size, light weight and easy to carry, making it the ideal tool for your athletic balls or aquarium(12 volt). OUTPUT: 120LPM /Min POWER: 60W VOLTAGE: DC 12V PRESSURE: 0.10MPa.
  • ★METAL PORTABLE AQUACULTURE AIR PUMP - Internal parts and cables are 100% copper, direct-drive motor makes the drive low rotating speed, high efficiency, compact, quiet and stability, and easy to control.
  • ★EASY TO INSTALL - Easy setup and operation, safe and stable; Intelligent, energy saving, environmental protection. Be suitable for living fishes in vehicles, restaurants and industry. Hydroponics, Aquariums, Fish Farms and Hydroponic Systems, Dusting, Inflation, Manufacture. It's also used for air supply to spare parts of food machine, medical instrument, belching lamp and new type paint, making and designing advertising LPG and LNG etc.
  • ★NOTICE - This is DC pumps, contact with DC, there is no plug to contact with AC.
  • Manufacture: Tsofu Store
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Tsofu
  • Pump Power [star rating='4.6']
  • Quality [star rating='5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='5']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.1']

Tsofu Final Thoughts

"JUST BUY THEM!"

I like these, great deal for the price. The motor was working but air was not moving. This seems to be a good little pump that really puts out some air! The stone is very heavy, so it is easy to position and stays put where you want it. I'd say this pump would be loud if it were used in the same room as you. Ordered this air pump to replace one of my other pumps and the difference is amazing. Push once for On and hold down for 5 seconds for off.

Overall Score
4.4

[star rating="4.4"]
(10 Points)

8. Estink Air Pump, DC 12V 35W Air Pump Aerator for Fish Pond Aquaculture Aquarium Accessory Tool for F...

User Ratings: 48

Estink First Impressions

"It pumps PLENTY of air!"

Just bought and started using it a few days ago. I have to unplug it every time I want to shut it off. I have an undergravel filter and a few other accessories that push air too. I currently have it in a closet to grow aquatic plants and brine shrimp. Once, the water in this tank backflowed into the unit. The pressure isn't as great as I hoped. All the reviews from all the different models are lumped together.

  • Estink Air Pump, DC 12V 35W Air Pump Aerator for Fish Pond Aquaculture Aquarium Accessory Tool for Fish Tank, Fountain, Pond, Hydroponics, Commercial
  • 【With Stable-Performance】The Oxygen air pump is stable performance and it can provide 0.068 Mpa pressure inflatable. It has large volume, great for aeration.
  • 【Low Power Consumption】The Oxygen air pump is low power consumption, it uses DC 12V, its power just 35W, it is practical and environmental friendly.
  • 【Premium Material】The Oxygen air pump is made of high quality material, which is non-toxic, safe and durable to use.
  • 【Convenient to Carry】Portable size and handle design for convenient to carry.
  • 【Wide Applications】The Oxygen air pump is suitable for living fishes in vehicles, restaurants and industry. Hydroponics, Aquariums, Fish Farms and Hydroponic Systems, Dusting, Inflation, Manufacture etc.
  • Estink is a registered brand and it is professional in various product categories for several years. Advanced equipment with solid techniques are adopted and our high quality products are strictly tested before being put into market. 'Quality First, Customer Superior' is always our aim. Every product is designed carefully aiming to add simple and comfortable elements to your lives.
  • The Oxygen air pump is suitable for living fishes in vehicles, restaurants and industry. Hydroponics, Aquariums, Fish Farms and Hydroponic Systems, Dusting, Inflation, Manufacture etc.
  • The Oxygen air pump is suitable for living fishes in vehicles, restaurants and industry. Hydroponics, Aquariums, Fish Farms and Hydroponic Systems, Dusting, Inflation, Manufacture etc.
  • Manufacture: Estink
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Estink
  • Pump Power [star rating='5']
  • Quality [star rating='5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.1']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.2']

Estink Final Thoughts

"JUST BUY THEM!"

I keep the pump and air valves in the box to lessen the noise. I use this on a 5-way valve for a 75 gallon tank. Use large Air Stone Bars for giant columns of air bubbles. The first lasted about two years when one side decided to put out less air. I currently have it in a closet to grow aquatic plants and brine shrimp. This thing has plenty of power for my needs. I got the bigger size because I used it in my 450 gallon tank and it's perfect.

Overall Score
4.5

[star rating="4.5"]
(4 Points)

9. Air Pump Aerator for Fish Pond Aquaculture Aquarium Accessory Tool Oxygen Supplies DC 12V 35W

User Ratings: 69 31

Fdit First Impressions

"But it was still working!"

I have one running to sponge filters in a tank and it pushing a nice air flow. You'd think this thing would stop working, but it didn’t! It's the second one of this model I’ve owned. I have the pump hooked up to a large sponge. Otherwise, I would buy another one. It just sounds like a large freezer. Pay a bit more but the quality is worth it.

  • Air Pump Aerator for Fish Pond Aquaculture Aquarium Accessory Tool Oxygen Supplies DC 12V 35W
  • ★Premium Quality:Made of high quality material, which is non-toxic, safe and durable to use
  • ★Outstanding Performance:With stable-performance and large volume, great for aeration
  • ★High Energy Saving: Low power consumption, this will be practical and environmental friendly
  • ★Compact and Easy to Use:Portable size and handle design make it more convenient to carry
  • ★Multi-Function:Suitable for fish pond aeration, oxygen supplement for fish during transportation, aquaculture, etc
  • Manufacture: Fdit
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Fdit
  • Pump Power [star rating='4']
  • Quality [star rating='4.1']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.6']

Fdit Final Thoughts

"This is a quiet pump."

This happened to me with this unit. This pump cost a bit more than the small quite ones but is way more powerful. This is the second pump I have bought in the series. The new unit works fine as a secondary air pump in a 75 gallon fresh water aquarium. I'm sure it would run a much larger bubble stick also. Yes it obviously makes some noise-but not at all as much as I was anticipating. Just bought and started using it a few days ago.

Overall Score
3.8

[star rating="3.8"]
(4 Points)

10. DC 12V Portable Fish Tank Pond Aquaculture Hydroponics Aquarium Air Pump Compressor Aerator 18W 38LP...

User Ratings: 66

Tsofu First Impressions

"Lol I'm so glad I did."

I have to put my head behind the tank to hear it! I set up 2 more and still all the control valve are not open 100%. This one is far better than I anticipated! So I completely disassembled the sponge holder. This happened to me with this unit. The motor was working but air was not moving. I honestly wasn't expecting that much of a difference but man was I surprised.

  • DC 12V Portable Fish Tank Pond Aquaculture Hydroponics Aquarium Air Pump Compressor Aerator 18W 38LPM/Min 602GPH, Oxygen Supplies
  • ★OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE - Multi-purpose portable aquarium air pump can provide 0.08MPa pressure inflatable. Use is very convenient. Quality and workmanship are very superb, in line with international standards. Without oil lubrication, it is clean compressed air.
  • ★MULTI-FUNCTION - The product is using energy-saving, high efficiency permanent magnet DC motor as the driver, with aluminium alloy shell by die-casting machine, compact structure, small size, light weight and easy to carry, making it the ideal tool for your athletic balls or aquarium(12 volt). OUTPUT: 38LPM /Min POWER: 18W VOLTAGE: DC 12V PRESSURE: 0.06MPa.
  • ★METAL PORTABLE AQUACULTURE AIR PUMP - Internal parts and cables are 100% copper, direct-drive motor makes the drive low rotating speed, high efficiency, compact, quiet and stability, and easy to control.
  • ★EASY TO INSTALL - Easy setup and operation, safe and stable; Intelligent, energy saving, environmental protection. Be suitable for living fishes in vehicles, restaurants and industry. Hydroponics, Aquariums, Fish Farms and Hydroponic Systems, Dusting, Inflation, Manufacture. It's also used for air supply to spare parts of food machine, medical instrument, belching lamp and new type paint, making and designing advertising LPG and LNG etc.
  • ★NOTICE - This is DC pumps, contact with DC, there is no plug to contact with AC.
  • Manufacture: Tsofu Store
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Tsofu
  • Pump Power [star rating='4.1']
  • Quality [star rating='3']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.8']
  • Affordability [star rating='4']

Tsofu Final Thoughts

"What a difference."

I have one running to sponge filters in a tank and it pushing a nice air flow. They generate a TON of air and last a long long time. Save some money by not having to replace your air pumps every year! And one to the additional accessories for extra oxygen output only. I'll definitely get a few more for my other tanks. It's the second one of this model I’ve owned. I use this on a 5-way valve for a 75 gallon tank.

Overall Score
4.0

[star rating="4"]
(3 Points)

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