Editor's Choice - Our Favorite NICREW Aquarium Air Pumps

1. NICREW UFO Aquarium Air Pump, Ultra Silent Air Aerator Pump for Fish Tank, Oxygen Air Pump with Acce...

User Ratings: 72 3

NICREW First Impressions

"So far, so good."

Adjustable air flow settings which is new to me on a air pump but very convenient. After 3 weeks, I received a new one in the mail. Once, the water in this tank backflowed into the unit. Don't be startled if you test it without oxygen tubes, It is Very noisy! Adjustable air flow settings which is new to me on a air pump but very convenient. This happened to me with this unit. Super quiet, lots of power and looks super sleek.

  • NICREW UFO Aquarium Air Pump, Ultra Silent Air Aerator Pump for Fish Tank, Oxygen Air Pump with Accessories
  • Provides oxygen and water movement, which can improve the efficiency of air transferred into the aquarium and help promote healthier fish and aquatic plant life
  • Features dual air hose outlets that easily connect with two air stones to provide more energy for your underwater pets and enhance the appearance of your aquariums
  • Unique dome shape, integrated sound-dampening chambers, rubber feet and suspended motor actually flattens sound wave frequencies for quiet, reliable performance
  • Ideal for indoor or outdoor use with any freshwater or marine aquariums. Suitable for aquariums, fountains and hydroponic systems
  • Each kit contains air pump, 2 air tubes, 2 check valves and 2 air stones
  • Manufacture: NICREW
  • Editor's Impressions Of The NICREW
  • Pump Power [star rating='5']
  • Quality [star rating='4.9']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.1']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.6']

NICREW Final Thoughts

"And my home is clean!"

I was currently using 2 Whispers and they were anything but whispering. For now, I'd say I would gladly buy another. This air pump is quiet and well worth the price the listing is going for. It makes the perfect size bubbles and the fish love it. I couldn't even think to do my work. And one to the additional accessories for extra oxygen output only. Super quiet, lots of power and looks super sleek.

Overall Score
4.5

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

Peoples Choice - Other Highly Rated NICREW Aquarium Air Pumps

2. NICREW Touch Controller Aquarium Air Pump, Adjustable and Portable for Fish Tank, Ultra Silent and E...

User Ratings: 74

NICREW First Impressions

"This is a quiet pump."

Buzzing, humming, vibrating- they were driving me nuts! This happened to me with this unit. It didn't blow air out that line, while it still had a little water in the unit! Though the 18W model isn't so loud that it can only be used outside. The stone is very heavy, so it is easy to position and stays put where you want it. Seems very well built, does as advertised. Just bought and started using it a few days ago.

  • NICREW Touch Controller Aquarium Air Pump, Adjustable and Portable for Fish Tank, Ultra Silent and Energy Saving Aerator Battery-Operated, Accessories Included, 1.7W
  • Provides oxygen and water movement, which can improve the efficiency of air transferred into the aquarium and help promote healthier fish and aquatic plant life
  • It is designed to automatically engage during power outages and can be charged for extended operation using a standard USB car charger
  • Run virtually silent, freely adjust 3 level volume with the touch power button
  • The energy-saving mode simulates a low-energy environment, changing the air volume automatically to extend battery life
  • Suitable for both freshwater and saltwater applications, oxygenating hydroponics, as well as water features indoor and outdoor
  • Manufacture: NICREW
  • Batteries: 1 Lithium ion batteries required. (included)
  • Editor's Impressions Of The NICREW
  • Pump Power [star rating='5']
  • Quality [star rating='4.8']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4']
  • Affordability [star rating='5']

NICREW Final Thoughts

"It's the little details."

I use this on a 5-way valve for a 75 gallon tank. Overall seems like a good air pump. This is actually the second one I have purchased. Though the 18W model isn't so loud that it can only be used outside. If you leave one open, it makes noise. Not to mention tank depth, etc becomes a factor. The first lasted about two years when one side decided to put out less air.

Overall Score
4.7

[star rating="4.7"]
(13 Points)

3. EHEIM Air Pump 100 W/Diffuser

User Ratings: 57 8

Eheim 720686370043 First Impressions

"Very quiet and powerful."

Provides proper wattage for all my accessories. A simple piece of foam under the unit solved that. Overall seems like a good air pump. Otherwise, I would buy another one. For a solid working, quiet pump, this is about as good as it gets. The pump works well when there is no defects. The pressure isn't as great as I hoped.

  • EHEIM Air Pump 100 W/Diffuser
  • Air pump
  • Eheim
  • 30 gal
  • Item Package Weight: 1.0
  • Manufacture: Eheim
  • Product Dimensions: 4 x 4 x 6 inches; 1 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Eheim 720686370043
  • Pump Power [star rating='4.9']
  • Quality [star rating='3.7']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.7']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.2']

Eheim 720686370043 Final Thoughts

"5 gallon Betta tank."

I had the Whisper models and they were way too high in emissions. The pump works well when there is no defects. The added tubing and manifold make this an even better value. If it craps out anytime soon, I'll update the review. Provides proper wattage for all my accessories. The rubber feet dampen most anything that the sealed pump doesn't cover. The pump is so powerful that it pushed off the connection tube several times.

Overall Score
4.2

[star rating="4.2"]
(86 Points)

4. Hpumps Aquarium Air Pump, Super Silent High Efficient Oxygen Breathe Water Air Pump for Fish Tank wi...

User Ratings: 74 5

Hpumps First Impressions

"Hygger never disappoints!"

Larger tank owners won't have my issues. I put a nice little fan next to mine and it now runs much cooler! For a solid working, quiet pump, this is about as good as it gets. Kudo to them for backing up their product. After nearly 5 months of use, it stop pumping air. It makes the perfect size bubbles and the fish love it. Buzzing, humming, vibrating- they were driving me nuts!

  • Hpumps Aquarium Air Pump, Super Silent High Efficient Oxygen Breathe Water Air Pump for Fish Tank with Filter Air Stone and Tube
  • ♦ ULTRA SILENT, No ELECTROMAGNETIC INTERFERENCE - Different from traditional electromagnetic air pump, No motor, No shaft, No EMI, which makes baby a good sleeping. RoHS and CE certificate passed.
  • ♦ HEALTH - Using premium material and long lifespan. Suitable for 2-20 gallon tank.
  • ♦ FISH LIKE AND LOW CONSUMPTION - Power consumption of this oxygen water pump is only 1.5W, but produce enough bubbles, fish like bubbles.
  • ♦ SIMPLE AND FASHION DESIGN - Silent Mini Oxygen Pumps allows you and your family to listen to heartbeat sounds. Integrated sonic fusion technology, small and exquisite, do not take up space.
  • ♦ EASY TO USE - Our silent air pump aquarium more easy to install, connecting filter air stone and silicone tube with pump outlet, then immerse air stone into fish tank. It is a gift for family and friends.
  • Manufacture: Hpumps
  • Product Dimensions: 3.05 x 0.75 x 3.03 inches; 5.6 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Hpumps
  • Pump Power [star rating='5']
  • Quality [star rating='4.6']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.5']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.5']

Hpumps Final Thoughts

"I couldn't be happier!"

I have it running 8 different sponge filters at high rate! The pump works very well in my 75G tank. I set up 2 more and still all the control valve are not open 100%. I'm not going to knock the product for my own paranoia though. It pumps out enough air to keep millions of air bubbles going in this 200g+ Aquarium! Its been on 24 hours a day for about 5 days. Great Product, BUT, its noisy and vibrates like mad on its rubber feet.

Overall Score
4.3

[star rating="4.3"]
(150 Points)

5. SOOLF Air Bubbler Pump Fish Multi-Speed Oxygenated Live Bait Aquarium

User Ratings: 62 7

SOOLF First Impressions

"Great value."

The current from the bubble wand is softer but its still a current. I couldn't even think to do my work. In fact I can hear the bubbles from the water more than the pump itself. It makes the perfect size bubbles and the fish love it. I have been in the hobby for 20+ years and this is the best air pump! This seems to be a good little pump that really puts out some air! This one is far better than I anticipated!

  • SOOLF Air Bubbler Pump Fish Multi-Speed Oxygenated Live Bait Aquarium
  • High quality: Use high strength plastic shell, injection molding workmanship makes the air pump can be used in salt and fresh water. Items through the waterproof and salt resistance test
  • Design: The fashing air pump is ergonomically designed, outline simple and smooth. The appearance ultra-thin, compact, portable and easy to use
  • Parameters: size 5.75x3.11x1.57 inch, Exhaust 1.2-1.5 litre/min, power 1.5v, battery life 40-45h
  • Range of application: provides rich and quiet bubbles for 5-10 gallon containers to keep fish and shrimp alive during outdoor fishing or fish farms
  • Accessories: 1 x air stone, 1 x 23.6 inches flexible hose
  • Manufacture: SOOLF
  • Editor's Impressions Of The SOOLF
  • Pump Power [star rating='4.2']
  • Quality [star rating='4.6']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.4']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.8']

SOOLF Final Thoughts

"Great for hydroponics."

If it craps out anytime soon, I'll update the review. Once, the water in this tank backflowed into the unit. I cleaned the sponge and hooked it all back up, hardly any air was coming out. For now, I'd say I would gladly buy another. And one to the additional accessories for extra oxygen output only. A white tail deer can hear a whisper 75 yards away! It's the second one of this model I’ve owned.

Overall Score
4.2

[star rating="4.2"]
(33 Points)

6. Penn Plax PEN-019 Air Pod Aquarium Air Pump For Power Outage Automatic Turn On Keeps Fish Safe Up to...

User Ratings: 50 17

Penn-Plax APB1 First Impressions

"Good luck."

I'm using it for small start-up hydroponic system. Works well in my 75 gal tank running a 36 inch bubble stick! I have 3 of them on different surfaces. Overall seems like a good air pump. Though the 18W model isn't so loud that it can only be used outside. And there are fixes around all of it. It still works internally, but no air.

  • Penn Plax PEN-019 Air Pod Aquarium Air Pump For Power Outage Automatic Turn On Keeps Fish Safe Up to 55 Gallons
  • Aquarium Air pump runs on 4D batteries when it senses that electrical current is interrupted. It will switch from electric to battery operated automatically. Pump is designed for ultra-quiet operation.
  • Pump has an adjustable flow control dial with dual air outlets to customize your air flow according to your needs. A handy power indicator light helps to identify which power source is being used.
  • Aquarium Air pump is safe to use in tanks up to 55 gallons and can provide power for 150 hours. Larger tanks would require more than one unit. Air pump uses 110 volt electrical current.
  • A check value is recommended but not included in the kit. Pump is safe for both freshwater and marine environments.
  • Operates on your home’s normal (AC) electrical power; pump will only switch to battery power (DC) if it senses an electricity outage, ensuring continuous tank aeration. Fish need a constant supply of oxygen for survival.
  • Manufacture: Penn-Plax
  • Product Dimensions: 2.8 x 8 x 6.75 inches; 1.14 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Penn-Plax APB1
  • Pump Power [star rating='3.5']
  • Quality [star rating='3.4']
  • Value For Money [star rating='2.8']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.6']

Penn-Plax APB1 Final Thoughts

"I hope this helps anyone."

This seems to be a good little pump that really puts out some air! For the money, this air pump cannot be beat. I had to use valves to reduce the output. This happened to me with this unit. If that is true-then no wonder this is pretty quiet! I cleaned the sponge and hooked it all back up, hardly any air was coming out. The pump is so powerful that it pushed off the connection tube several times.

Overall Score
3.7

[star rating="3.7"]
(181 Points)

7. Aquatop Ap-30 Aquarium Air Pump

User Ratings: 44 17

AquaTop AP-30 First Impressions

"Stay Green!"

Ordered this air pump to replace one of my other pumps and the difference is amazing. I'd say this pump would be loud if it were used in the same room as you. The current from the bubble wand is softer but its still a current. This air pump is quiet and well worth the price the listing is going for. I like these, great deal for the price. I have 3 of them on different surfaces. I use this on a 5-way valve for a 75 gallon tank.

  • Aquatop Ap-30 Aquarium Air Pump
  • Tank capacity Up to 40 Gals
  • Number of outlets 1
  • Pressure max 2.90 psi
  • Wattage: 3 Watts
  • Manufacture: Aquatop, Inc.
  • Product Dimensions: 3.5 x 1.5 x 1.75 inches; 7.84 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The AquaTop AP-30
  • Pump Power [star rating='4.2']
  • Quality [star rating='3.3']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.8']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.6']

AquaTop AP-30 Final Thoughts

"This one WORKS!"

Colbert, the reviewer above, for explaining how to do this. A simple piece of foam under the unit solved that. It's the second one of this model I’ve owned. They don't even vibrate the old school plastic tank hanger mounts they sit on. For the money, this air pump cannot be beat. It's the second one of this model I’ve owned. They generate a TON of air and last a long long time.

Overall Score
3.6

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

8. VIVOHOME 32W 950 GPH 60L/min 6 Outlets Commercial Air Pump with 2 PCS 4 x 2 Inch Airstones and 25-ft...

User Ratings: 67 4

VIVOHOME First Impressions

"Can't beat it."

Before the fan, it was to hot to even hold! A simple piece of foam under the unit solved that. Don't be startled if you test it without oxygen tubes, It is Very noisy! I'm sure it would run a much larger bubble stick also. I just cleaned my 20 tank for the first time in, well too long. I was currently using 2 Whispers and they were anything but whispering. The stone is very heavy, so it is easy to position and stays put where you want it.

  • VIVOHOME 32W 950 GPH 60L/min 6 Outlets Commercial Air Pump with 2 PCS 4 x 2 Inch Airstones and 25-ft Air Tubing Combo, 3 Sets
  • A COMBO - Comes with a 1 x 32W air pump, 2 x air stones, and 1 x 25ft-long airline; The air stones are 2 inches in diameter and 4 inched in height, which nicely fits the air tubing included; Simply attach airline tubing to the air stone and place it in the desired location
  • GREAT OUTPUT PUMP - Powerful electromagnetic motor pushes 950 gallons per hour to deliver lots of airflows; 6 outlets are ideal for running several water farms or multiple air stones at once; Effectively adds and circulates oxygen and nutrition while lowering CO2 levels in your aquarium or hydroponic growing system
  • STURDY BUILD - The electrical magnetic air compressor is in a high-quality aluminum alloy case; Cylinders and pistons are made of premium materials, making the pump strong and durable; Convenient to operate without oil for producing purer compressed air; Easily controlled with the attached splitter bank
  • FINE BUBBLES - The airstones are made from environmentally-friendly and non-toxic mineral material, and microvoid design makes an abundance of small bubbles for oxygen replacement, which help extend the life of your nutrient solution, keep roots healthy, and invigorate your aquatic life without worrying about adverse effects
  • WIDE APPLICATIONS - This aerator can be widely used to provide oxygen in aquariums, fish farms and hydroponic systems, work great for raising the pH in swimming pool, and also brew your compost tea well; Fit for hydroponic systems, ponds, aquariums, fish tanks, and other water-based systems
  • Manufacture: VIVOHOME
  • Editor's Impressions Of The VIVOHOME
  • Pump Power [star rating='5']
  • Quality [star rating='5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.4']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.9']

VIVOHOME Final Thoughts

"Looks good."

And one to the additional accessories for extra oxygen output only. I had to use valves to reduce the output. I just cleaned my 20 tank for the first time in, well too long. I have to put my head behind the tank to hear it! I have an undergravel filter and a few other accessories that push air too. I'm using it for small start-up hydroponic system. Just bought and started using it a few days ago.

Overall Score
4.5

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

9. Penn Plax APP3 Air Pod Aquarium Air Pump Ultra Quiet Compact Dome Shape Up to 30 Gallon Tank

User Ratings: 53 8

Penn-Plax APP3 First Impressions

"It was a dud."

I have one running to sponge filters in a tank and it pushing a nice air flow. Larger tank owners won't have my issues. But if it's in another room, it’s not bad at all. I had the Whisper models and they were way too high in emissions. I had the Whisper models and they were way too high in emissions. One of the best pump design I've own. And there are fixes around all of it.

  • Penn Plax APP3 Air Pod Aquarium Air Pump Ultra Quiet Compact Dome Shape Up to 30 Gallon Tank
  • Aquarium air pump provides a steady stream of air for aquariums up to 30 gallons in size.
  • Hi-tech design includes Sound Cancelling Dome technology for quiet operation.
  • No skid rubber feet provide greater noise dampening and keep the air pump in place.
  • Adjustable airflow valve allows you to customize the amount of air for your tank size.
  • Aquarium air pump features a compact design that fits into the smallest of spaces.
  • Pump has single air outlet, 2.7 watts of power, and pumps 1900 cubic centimeters a minute.
  • Manufacture: Penn-Plax
  • Product Dimensions: 6 x 6 x 6 inches; 2 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Penn-Plax APP3
  • Pump Power [star rating='4.6']
  • Quality [star rating='3.5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.1']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.7']

Penn-Plax APP3 Final Thoughts

"Insert T-valve."

I had the Whisper models and they were way too high in emissions. I added a check valve to my airline tubing and works as expected. If you leave one open, it makes noise. This runs pretty darn quiet for a high output air pump. I really am impressed with this air pump! The current from the bubble wand is softer but its still a current. Before the fan, it was to hot to even hold!

Overall Score
4.1

[star rating="4.1"]
(23 Points)

10. Tetra Whisper Easy to Use Air Pump for Aquariums (Non-UL)

User Ratings: 76 3

Tetra 77855 First Impressions

"It is perfect!"

It has two places to hook up tubing to. I own Whisper 10, 150, 300, Eheim 400, and Fusion 700. The rubber bottom feet really help to keep the unit quite and in one place. I hung it so its not touching anything. The current from the bubble wand is softer but its still a current. Super quiet, lots of power and looks super sleek. I use this on a 5-way valve for a 75 gallon tank.

  • Tetra Whisper Easy to Use Air Pump for Aquariums (Non-UL)
  • POWERFUL Tetra Whisper Air Pump provides dependable airflow to your aquarium
  • QUIET Patented dome shape suspended motor and sound-dampening chambers for quiet operation
  • AVAILABLE SIZES Select the proper size for your tank – 10 20 and 40-gallon pumps have single air outlets 60 and 100-gallon pumps feature dual outlets
  • NON-UL LISTED Reliable performance at an economical cost
  • Age Range Description: All Life Stages
  • Included Components: 1 x Tetra Whisper Air Pump 60 To 100 Gallons
  • Manufacture: Tetra
  • Product Dimensions: 3.38 x 5 x 8.38 inches; 2.1 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Tetra 77855
  • Pump Power [star rating='4.4']
  • Quality [star rating='5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.6']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.6']

Tetra 77855 Final Thoughts

"It was a dud."

I will just keep the old one for parts should I need it. The motor was working but air was not moving. I set up 2 more and still all the control valve are not open 100%. Apparently the dome shape plays a significant role in noise reduction. Colbert, the reviewer above, for explaining how to do this. This seems to be a good little pump that really puts out some air! Colbert, the reviewer above, for explaining how to do this.

Overall Score
4.6

[star rating="4.6"]
(15887 Points)

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