Editor's Choice - Our Favorite 10 Gallon Aquarium Filters

1. Tetra Whisper Internal Filter 3 to 10 Gallons, for Aquariums, in-Tank Filtration with Air Pump, Blac...

User Ratings: 70 6

Tetra AQ-78056 First Impressions

"And SILENCE."

If that does not work, look into silicone grease so you can lube the impeller. Get it and take heed to what I wrote. However, lately I've purchased the Aqua Clear 70 and 50. Overall I would recommend this item. This filter has is a very simple and efficient design. It was perfectly quiet without any extra effort on my part. I eyedball everything and put it together with a look back at instructions.

  • Tetra Whisper Internal Filter 3 to 10 Gallons, for Aquariums, in-Tank Filtration with Air Pump, Blacks & Grays (25816)
  • FOR 4 GALLON aquariumS: This Whisper Internal Power Filter uses small filter cartridges and adjusts easily to high or low water levels.
  • 27 GPH PUMP: The internal 27 GPH pump cycles a 4 gallon aquarium more than 6 times per hour.
  • TWO FILTERS IN ONE: Cartridge floss catches debris and fish waste, while Ultra-Activated carbon removes odors and discoloration.
  • SPACE-SAVING DESIGN: Your aquarium can be flush to the wall with the internal filter designed to clip on your tank wall and be hidden by décor.
  • EVERYTHING YOU NEED IS INCLUDED: This pack contains the hinged lid, tank clip, internal filter and filter cartridge.
  • Manufacture: Spectrum Brands Pet LLC
  • Product Dimensions: 3 x 3 x 7.38 inches; 8.78 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Tetra AQ-78056
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.7']
  • Quality [star rating='5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.6']
  • Affordability [star rating='5']

Tetra AQ-78056 Final Thoughts

"5 minutes."

My tank is nice and clear and my fish are much happier. Fill up the media slot with water until it's full. I use Marinelands refillable cartridge for extra carbon on the extra slots. Typically just below the flat part of the outlets. You can't really tell though, and the filter is working great. You'll want to pull that water from the bottom. My baby turtle even loves it so much he won't let go.

Overall Score
4.4

[star rating="4.4"]
(7387 Points)

Peoples Choice - Other Highly Rated 10 Gallon Aquarium Filters

2. Tetra Whisper Power Filter 10 Gallons, Quiet 3-Stage aquarium Filtration (26316)

User Ratings: 60 11

Tetra 26316 First Impressions

"One piece of advice."

I plan to cycle this new AC 50 on a separate tank and then xfer it to the 20 gallon. Basically, make sure everything that is suppose to spin, does so smoothly. I used a small pair of pliers and carefully got the pebbles out. I have always used Marineland filters and been happy with them and their quality. I AM IMPRESSED THAT IT WORKS AS IT ACTUALLY SHOULD! I recently upgraded from a 10 gallon aquarium to a 29 gallon. My tank was a mess when I got this pump.

  • Tetra Whisper Power Filter 10 Gallons, Quiet 3-Stage aquarium Filtration (26316)
  • QUIET & RELIABLE The Tetra Whisper Power Filter uses 3-stage filtration to create clear clean water – PF 10 treats aquariums up to 10 gallons
  • ABSORBS ODORS Ultra-Activated carbon removes both odor and water discoloration
  • CATCHES DEBRIS Dense dual-sided mesh filters debris and fish waste
  • INNOVATIVE CLEANING POWER Integrated Stay Clean technology reduces buildup on glass and binds small dirt particles to make them easier to filter
  • CARTRIDGE REFILLS Change cartridges monthly uses medium-sized Tetra Whisper Bio-Bag Cartridges (refills sold separately)
  • Age Range Description: all ranges
  • Included Components: Whisper PF10 Aquarium Filter (5-10 Gal)
  • Manufacture: Tetra
  • Product Dimensions: 4.25 x 6 x 7.06 inches; 1.06 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Tetra 26316
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.2']
  • Quality [star rating='3.3']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.4']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.3']

Tetra 26316 Final Thoughts

"Five years later."

This is a good choice if you're tired of cleaning your turtle tank all the time. Fill up the media slot with water until it's full. There is a sound from the water shooting into the tank! The filter arrived within 2 days and was the exact same as Petsmart's. They are easily found from mom-n-pop pet stores to large chain stores. I own 3 of these and besides my canister they are my favorite filters. I plan to cycle this new AC 50 on a separate tank and then xfer it to the 20 gallon.

Overall Score
4.1

[star rating="4.1"]
(2563 Points)

3. Marina Power Filter

User Ratings: 72 6

Marina A285 First Impressions

"I like the design."

My tank was a mess when I got this pump. All in all, I highly recommend this filter and I'm a extremely happy customer! You do have to unplug it for those two jobs. The instructions are a bit to much for me. This is a well designed unit and a lot of bang for the buck. I was worried about some of the negative reviews. If that does not work, look into silicone grease so you can lube the impeller.

  • Marina Power Filter
  • Power filter for aquariums up to 10 gallons
  • Self priming
  • Easy to maintain
  • Adjustable flow control
  • Manufacture: Marina
  • Product Dimensions: 3.7 x 7.3 x 6.5 inches; 1.23 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Marina A285
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.1']
  • Quality [star rating='4']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.8']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.2']

Marina A285 Final Thoughts

"I like the design."

First they are simple and designed to pump and filter aquarium water. Fill it up with water before you plug it in. Now I'm having the same issue with the Aqua Clear 50. I have had no issues with it being to loud. , that's what makes this so funny. It started out silent for about 30 mins and then it got super loud. This filter comes with a sponge, activated carbon, and bio material in a mesh bag.

Overall Score
4.4

[star rating="4.4"]
(1588 Points)

4. AquaClear Fish Tank Filter, Aquarium Filter for 60- to 110-Gallon Aquariums, 110v, A620A1

User Ratings: 76 8

AquaClear A620A1 First Impressions

"Yeah, no no no!"

There is a sound from the water shooting into the tank! Never ever ever use it past a year. I had originally got one for my 75 Gallon tank housing an Oscar. It started out silent for about 30 mins and then it got super loud. Fill up the media slot with water until it's full. I'm a mechanical engineer and understand design. DO NOT CLEAN OR WASH the paper wheel itself.

  • AquaClear Fish Tank Filter, Aquarium Filter for 60- to 110-Gallon Aquariums, 110v, A620A1
  • Aquarium filtration system that offers superior contact time with filter media and energy efficient pump lowers operating costs
  • Quick and easy installation, we recommend that you clean aquarium filter every two weeks for maximum operation and efficiency
  • Provides optimal mechanical, chemical, and biological filtrations
  • Comes equipped with AquaClear Foam, Activated Carbon Filter and BioMax and Cycle Guard for superior water quality
  • Filtration volume is up to 7 times larger than comparable fish tank filters
  • Lifetime warranty; ideal for aquariums up to 110 gallons
  • When the flow rate is reduced, up to 50% of the water within the filter chamber is processed multiple times. More impurities are filtered out, creating a healthier tank with sparkling clean and clear water.
  • Manufacture: Rolf C. Hagen (USA) Corp.
  • Product Dimensions: 17.4 x 12.5 x 11 inches; 4.52 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The AquaClear A620A1
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.3']
  • Quality [star rating='4.2']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.3']
  • Affordability [star rating='5']

AquaClear A620A1 Final Thoughts

"Definitely a good buy."

Never ever ever use it past a year. I checked and cleaned it and still just as loud. It's only rated at 25 gph less, but holds considerably less media. The lever on the bottom helps even the filter out. With the 350's inexpensive price point, you can’t go wrong with this powerful filter. Fill it up with water before you plug it in. I have 4 other AquaClear filters and like them.

Overall Score
4.5

[star rating="4.5"]
(1486 Points)

Honorable Mentions - More Top Selling 10 Gallon Aquarium Filters

5. Aqueon Quietflow Internal Power Filter

User Ratings: 56 12

Aqueon 100106970 First Impressions

"Best to you all!"

You can't really tell though, and the filter is working great. Really happy with the money I was able to save. I also don't like how short the intake tube is. I contacted Marineland about my issue and they promptly sent me a new one right away! I returned the Aqua Clear 70 and promptly received a replacement. This lives up to the praise that people give it. I ordered 4 of these, for different tanks of course.

  • Aqueon Quietflow Internal Power Filter
  • Fully submersible in vertical or horizontal position
  • Adjustable return flow rate
  • Direction and height of water return is also adjustable
  • Three stage filtration: dense foam for particles and debris, activated carbon for toxins, odors and discoloration and patented BioGrid for ammonia and nitrates
  • Uses Aqueon Replacement Internal Filter Cartridges
  • Adjustable direction and height of return
  • AT10 is recommended for 10 gallon tanks, flow rate is 57 GPH and uses 1 small replacement cartridge
  • Limited lifetime warranty
  • Manufacture: Central Garden & Pet
  • Product Dimensions: 2.75 x 1.5 x 5.38 inches; 9.6 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Aqueon 100106970
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.4']
  • Quality [star rating='3.5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.3']
  • Affordability [star rating='3']

Aqueon 100106970 Final Thoughts

"So far so good!"

Following morning it was running quietly. The Marineland penguin 350 is a great filter. I was new to the hobby and didn't realize that Tetras were inferior filters. What I don't like is how much smaller it is than the Aqueon. This is not my first experience with a marineland filter. I want to answer some of the complaints I've read. BUT after some YouTube research I was able to fix the noise issue.

Overall Score
4.0

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

6. DaToo Aquarium Power Filter in-Tank Ultra Silent Fish Tank Filter 3W for Aquarium, 1 Yr Warranty

User Ratings: 56 15

DaToo First Impressions

"It's heavy."

I still have my original wheels on the year old 350 with no issues whatsoever. I contacted Marineland about my issue and they promptly sent me a new one right away! This is a good choice if you're tired of cleaning your turtle tank all the time. I've looked at so many filters and reviews. They are simply the best design for nitrifying bacteria to grow on. I was worried about some of the negative reviews. First they are simple and designed to pump and filter aquarium water.

  • DaToo Aquarium Power Filter in-Tank Ultra Silent Fish Tank Filter 3W for Aquarium, 1 Yr Warranty
  • DaToo AQUARIUM FILTER: How to create a clean and healthy environment for our beloved fish? This is a concern for everyone who likes fish farming. But DaToo filter help you easily implement it. Strong horse-power, Waterfall type water flow, perfect work in 24 hours ensures a clean and healthy water environment. Now follow me to get to know DaToo Aquarium Filter. Let's Go!!
  • POWERFUL FILTERING: In the process of raising fish, due to feeding and fish excretion, our fish tank will inevitably produce some harmful impurities and odor. DaToo Filter uses enhanced filter Cartridge with activated carbon, can effectively absorb harmful impurities in the water and remove odors from the tank. Large filter space, extra filter materials can be added as needed, such as biochemical ball, carbon bag, etc. Filtration capacity than similar products increased by 2 to 3 times.
  • ULTRA-QUIET: Humans need a good night's sleep, and so are fish. Noise can make fish irritable and even sick. But if you choose DaToo you don't have to worry about this.Ultra-quiet motor, multiple noise reduction designs ensure that DaToo offers you and your fish a quiet and comfortable night. Select DaToo Filter, Let us say goodbye to noise。
  • BPA-Free AND ENERGY SAVING: A safe and healthy material is crucial to the health of fish. Every component of the DaToo Aquarium Filter is made with High-quality, Sturdy, BPA-free plastic. Long-term use does not produce toxins, safe for you and your lovely fish. Super energy efficient design, only consume 2KWH of electricity per month.Select DaToo Aquarium Filter, not only cares for your fish health, but also saves your electricity bill.
  • FIT: Suitable aquarium tank is 1 Gallon~10 Gallon and will function in as little as 1.5 inches of water -- making DaToo Aquarium Filter not only suitable for fish tank but also for turtle tank and can creat a waterfall inside the tank.(Note: Please ensure that the water level exceeds the inlet)
  • Manufacture: DaToo
  • Editor's Impressions Of The DaToo
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.9']
  • Quality [star rating='2.9']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.4']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.4']

DaToo Final Thoughts

"Not my case!"

The filter stopped working all of a sudden. It's only rated at 25 gph less, but holds considerably less media. A canister or in tank filter is ten times more work and messy. I want to answer some of the complaints I've read. I checked and cleaned it and still just as loud. I decided to go with this filter since I had a positive experience previously. I returned the Aqua Clear 70 and promptly received a replacement.

Overall Score
3.9

[star rating="3.9"]
(530 Points)

7. Powkoo Aquairum Fish Tank Corner Sponge Filter Mini Sponge Filter,Tank Size: 10 Gallon

User Ratings: 74 4

Powkoo First Impressions

"One piece of advice."

I ordered 4 of these, for different tanks of course. Also price was very reasonable and shipping was fast. Once I found that, the world was right again. Replace activated carbon every 6-8 months ish. I contacted Marineland about my issue and they promptly sent me a new one right away! I stopped the pump and I pulled it apart. The filter arrived within 2 days and was the exact same as Petsmart's.

  • Powkoo Aquairum Fish Tank Corner Sponge Filter Mini Sponge Filter,Tank Size: 10 Gallon
  • 4-layer corner sponge filter -- provide excellent both mechanical and biological filtration, air powered, works great without noise, keep your fish tank crystal clear and clean【Fit fish tank size: 1 to 10 gallon】
  • High density porous 60ppi fine sponge, unique fan-shaped ribbing sponges, traps floating debris and fine particles, increase oxygen, provides ideal location for beneficial nitrifying bacteria to colonize
  • Easy to setup: connect the tube to the air pump and connect it to the filter, plug it in, it works, provide both aeration and filtration for your fish. Tips: squeeze out the air in the sponge when you put it underwater, then it will suck into water and keep down at the bottom
  • Easy to clean: simply rinse and squeeze sponge in used tank water, recommend to replace bio sponge every 6 months to ensure filtration effect and growth of nitrifying bacteria
  • Corner shape fits well in any corner, little sponge filter doesn't take up too much room, great bio sponge filter for betta tank, angelfish, fry, goldfish, baby fish, shrimp, small fish, breeding tank. can be used as pre-filtration unit by fitting to an external or a top filter
  • Manufacture: HJK
  • Product Dimensions: 3.15 x 2.17 x 4.72 inches; 2.88 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Powkoo
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.6']
  • Quality [star rating='3.8']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.2']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.6']

Powkoo Final Thoughts

"No effect."

You'll want to pull that water from the bottom. , that's what makes this so funny. I have 4 other AquaClear filters and like them. I have had no issues with it being to loud. I've looked at so many filters and reviews. Replace activated carbon every 6-8 months ish. Therefore, you wouldnt have 2 filters running.

Overall Score
4.5

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

8. SeaChem – Large Aquarium Fish Tank Filter, Tidal 110 Gallon (400 Liters) by Sicce

User Ratings: 69 8

Seachem 67106502 First Impressions

"That also didn't work."

As for performance, I couldn't ask for a better filter. This lives up to the praise that people give it. This is a well designed unit and a lot of bang for the buck. I can take apart a car engine and put it back together. The first night I had the pump going it started making a screeching sound. I was worried about some of the negative reviews. I still have my original wheels on the year old 350 with no issues whatsoever.

  • SeaChem – Large Aquarium Fish Tank Filter, Tidal 110 Gallon (400 Liters) by Sicce
  • Manufacture: Deepwater Aquatics Distribution
  • Product Dimensions: 15 x 6 x 15 inches; 2.2 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Seachem 67106502
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.5']
  • Quality [star rating='3.8']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.2']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.5']

Seachem 67106502 Final Thoughts

"This one does!"

Get it and take heed to what I wrote. I checked and cleaned it and still just as loud. I plan to cycle this new AC 50 on a separate tank and then xfer it to the 20 gallon. I had originally got one for my 75 Gallon tank housing an Oscar. DO NOT CLEAN OR WASH the paper wheel itself. They were great to deal with and the new filter is working great! Get it and take heed to what I wrote.

Overall Score
4.3

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

9. Penn-Plax 325 Cascade Corner Filter

User Ratings: 61 10

Penn-Plax 07192 First Impressions

"Not my case!"

I wasn't able to fill my tank fully because there was little to no surface agitation. All in all, I highly recommend this filter and I'm a extremely happy customer! They are easily found from mom-n-pop pet stores to large chain stores. Fill it up with water before you plug it in. I have always used Marineland filters and been happy with them and their quality. I took it apart reassemble it and it's not pumping in the water. My old pump was not working very well so I had to make a major clean up.

  • Penn-Plax 325 Cascade Corner Filter
  • Space saving corner design
  • Fully submersible filter quietly delivers 85 gallons per hour of crystal clear water for your fresh or marine aquarium up to 10 gallons in size
  • Spray bar option allows you to distribute water evenly helping aerate your tank
  • Can be placed horizontally and is easily hidden
  • Manufacture: Penn Plax
  • Product Dimensions: 4 x 2 x 7 inches; 1 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Penn-Plax 07192
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.2']
  • Quality [star rating='5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.7']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.8']

Penn-Plax 07192 Final Thoughts

"AFTER 3 DAYS."

Works like a dream and can't even hear it! However, lately I've purchased the Aqua Clear 70 and 50. I had a lot of particles in the water. The filter arrived within 2 days and was the exact same as Petsmart's. Unlike my old HOB filter, it doesn't sound like a leaky toilet. Basically, make sure everything that is suppose to spin, does so smoothly. Marineland bio pumps have been around forever.

Overall Score
4.2

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

10. SunGrow Sponge Betta Filter, 3x4 Inches, Multi-Layer Filtration System, Ultra Quiet Underwater Corne...

User Ratings: 57 6

SunGrow First Impressions

"And SILENCE."

SO I decided to order this for my 29 gallon tank. My fish are definitely happier and my water is crystal clear. There must be a huge batch of these units at Amazon right now that are bad. , that's what makes this so funny. I was also having oxygen issues because of this. BUT after some YouTube research I was able to fix the noise issue. I can hear it 3 rooms away grinding away.

  • SunGrow Sponge Betta Filter, 3x4 Inches, Multi-Layer Filtration System, Ultra Quiet Underwater Corner Filter, Excellent Oxygen Resource, Works in Tropical Fish and Shrimp Tanks
  • ✔ GREAT RESOURCE FOR OXYGEN --- The highly effective Sponge Betta Filter from SunGrow helps keep your aquatic pets and plants healthy and thriving by creating oxygen bubbles in your aquarium water. Just like humans, plants and pets need oxygen to survive. Keeping the square corner filter in your tank ensures that they always have a sufficient supply.
  • ✔ DROP OFF THE FEAR OF FISH OR FRY GETTING STUCK --- One internal multi-layered sponge filter works in any aquarium or fish tank up to 10 gallons. Additional sponge pads can be added to larger tanks. Unlike the traditional filters, the gentle, slow current keeps fry or small fish calm making it perfect for the betta, dwarf cichlids, guppies, shrimp, and fish breeding tanks or hatcheries, maternity, and fry tanks.
  • ✔ MULTIPLE LAYERS OF REFINEMENT IN ONE --- With three distinct layers of refinement, the Square Sponge from SunGrow has triple the strength of a single layer filter. A white cotton pad is a top layer while a green sponge is the second and maifanite gravel makes up the third layer.
  • ✔ HIGH-QUALITY, DURABLE MATERIALS --- The multi-layer corner filter is made of high-quality, durable materials. The high hardness plastic exterior houses an effective sponge filter, cotton filter and maifanite stone filter media.
  • ✔ EASY TO INSTALL WITH LOW-MAINTENANCE --- The square 4.3” x 3” (11cm x 7.5cm) sponge betta filter is placed directly into your aquarium or fish tank and you need to simply connect it to your air pump via airline. It is recommended that you place this in one corner of the tank so as to maintain the aquarium aesthetics and fish and other creatures move unhindered. For its optimal performance, rinse the filter every 3-4 weeks and replace it in every 4-6 months (depending on your specific usage).
  • Manufacture: MARIMO PET
  • Editor's Impressions Of The SunGrow
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.9']
  • Quality [star rating='3.2']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.7']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.7']

SunGrow Final Thoughts

"I bought an FX6 in 2013."

My old pump was not working very well so I had to make a major clean up. Fill up the media slot with water until it's full. I put it together, reading instructions of course. Lift the sticking wheel outuse a Q-tip to clean the slots where the wheel rests. The Aqua Clear is on the left and the Aqueon is on the right. I used to have a 37 gallon eclipse aquarium. Controlling the flow rate doesn't require modifying the filter.

Overall Score
4.0

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

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