Editor's Choice - Our Favorite 100 Gallon Aquarium Filters

1. Fluval External Filter

User Ratings: 74 9

Fluval A217 First Impressions

"My fault not theirs."

There is a sound from the water shooting into the tank! I put it together, reading instructions of course. It was perfectly quiet without any extra effort on my part. Of course the sound all depends on how much water is in the aquarium. I can hear it 3 rooms away grinding away. Also price was very reasonable and shipping was fast. I plan to cycle this new AC 50 on a separate tank and then xfer it to the 20 gallon.

  • Fluval External Filter
  • Multi stage filtration for healthy fresh & saltwater aquariums
  • Suitable for aquariums up to 100 gallons. Flow Rate: 1450 LPH (383 US GPH)
  • Sound dampening impeller design for a quieter operation. The Fluval 406 Canister Filter has a unique square shaped canister design that holds 35 to 50 percent more water than round canister filters of similar size allowing better water flow through a complex cleansing path that maximizes contact with the filtration media
  • Equipped with a clog proof intake strainer and a dual layer foam screen. To prevent water from dripping onto the receptacle or plug,a “drip loop” should be arranged by the user in the cord connecting appliance to a receptacle
  • Built with a patented Aqua stop Valve, multiple filtration baskets, and rim connector assemblies; 3 year warranty.Media Capacity: 8.5 L
  • Manufacture: Fluval
  • Product Dimensions: 7.6 x 14.5 x 17.8 inches; 10 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Fluval A217
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4']
  • Quality [star rating='3.7']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.6']

Fluval A217 Final Thoughts

"SAME THING!"

In the afternoon the noises started again. A canister or in tank filter is ten times more work and messy. I was worried about some of the negative reviews. I've looked at so many filters and reviews. The Marineland penguin 350 is a great filter. SO I decided to order this for my 29 gallon tank. I attempted to clean and lube the impeller, but to no avail.

Overall Score
4.4

[star rating="4.4"]
(2951 Points)

Peoples Choice - Other Highly Rated 100 Gallon Aquarium Filters

2. Penn-Plax Cascade Hang-on Aquarium Filter with Quad Filtration System

User Ratings: 73 7

Penn-Plax CPF5 First Impressions

"SAME THING!"

Also the maker should review the pump design. I was using a Tetra in-tank filter previously. I've been researching so many things on how to take care of them. I liked the clean lined look and the pull out basket. I also like the fact that it is relatively low profile and discreet looking. Your fish and you will be much happier and stun everyone else. The filter arrived within 2 days and was the exact same as Petsmart's.

  • Penn-Plax Cascade Hang-on Aquarium Filter with Quad Filtration System
  • Hang on aquarium filter quietly delivers 300 gallons per hour of crystal clear water for your fresh or marine aquariums from 55 to 100 gallons in size.
  • Revolutionary Bio-Falls Quad-Filtration system provides efficient filtration with anaerobic bacteria for additional ammonia and nitrite removal providing maximum oxygenation.
  • Activated carbon cartridge removes harmful chemicals, toxins, odors, discoloration, and other contaminants for your aquarium.
  • Internal sponge optimizes colonization of beneficial anaerobic bacteria and polyfiber floss cartridge traps floating particulate matter.
  • Adjustable flow knob allows you to reduce filtration during feeding times or as needed. Aquarium filter is recommended for both freshwater and saltwater applications.
  • Manufacture: Monster Pets
  • Product Dimensions: 9 x 6.5 x 11 inches; 4 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Penn-Plax CPF5
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.3']
  • Quality [star rating='4.7']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.5']
  • Affordability [star rating='5']

Penn-Plax CPF5 Final Thoughts

"I was to tire to fix it."

Worst case is that the motor could burn out. LOW and BEHOLD, LMAO, I missed where you had to put water in the back of the filter. Replace activated carbon every 6-8 months ish. DO NOT CLEAN OR WASH the paper wheel itself. I AM IMPRESSED THAT IT WORKS AS IT ACTUALLY SHOULD! I decided to go with this filter since I had a positive experience previously. I was new to the hobby and didn't realize that Tetras were inferior filters.

Overall Score
4.4

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

3. SunSun Hw303B 370GPH Pro Canister Filter Kit with 9-watt UV Sterilizer

User Ratings: 70 8

SunSun HW-303BPro First Impressions

"Just a tip!"

Controlling the flow rate doesn't require modifying the filter. Just rinse them out once a month, don't throw that beneficial bacteria away. Controlling the flow rate doesn't require modifying the filter. I have always used Marineland filters and been happy with them and their quality. It doesn't rise up hugely above the tank like a lot of HOB filters. You'll want to pull that water from the bottom. Marineland bio pumps have been around forever.

  • SunSun Hw303B 370GPH Pro Canister Filter Kit with 9-watt UV Sterilizer
  • HW-303B Pro Filtration Kit, Good for up to 100 gallon aquariums
  • Flow rate: 370 GPH (1400L/Hr)
  • Dimension: 10.5" L X 10.5" W X 16" H
  • Pro Kit Includes Canister Filter w/9 Watt UV, 3 White Filter Pads, 1 Blue Coarse Pad, 3 Media Baskets
  • Includes 1lb of Premium Filter Carbon, 1lb of Ceramic Rings and 1 Set of Bio Balls
  • Manufacture: SunSun
  • Product Dimensions: 12 x 12 x 20 inches; 16 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The SunSun HW-303BPro
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.1']
  • Quality [star rating='3.5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.6']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.9']

SunSun HW-303BPro Final Thoughts

"This is the one."

I was worried about some of the negative reviews. This is a well designed unit and a lot of bang for the buck. Firstly, I'd recommend taking the motor apart and putting it back together. Early on it seems to be working as advertised. I've been researching so many things on how to take care of them. My tank was a mess when I got this pump. Your fish and you will be much happier and stun everyone else.

Overall Score
4.4

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

4. Aqueon QuietFlow Canister Filter 55-100 Gallons

User Ratings: 68 6

Aqueon 100532120 First Impressions

"Best to you all!"

I will pick 3-4 of these at one time over a single system any day. However, lately I've purchased the Aqua Clear 70 and 50. Typically just below the flat part of the outlets. I own 3 of these and besides my canister they are my favorite filters. Early on it seems to be working as advertised. So, easy is good, both for us and our fish. This new AQ50 filter has loose bio-media, i.

  • Aqueon QuietFlow Canister Filter 55-100 Gallons
  • Experience a unique hang-on-the-back water polishing unit that makes maintenance quick and easy, simply replace the cartridge
  • Includes quick disconnect valves, pump locking heads, water intake/output connections, hoses, water polishing unit with cartridge and media: activated carbon, coarse foam, bio-balls, bio-ceramic rings
  • Multiple water return options for optimal versatility to best suite a variety of aquarium habitats; spray bar, water director and water polishing unit
  • Multi-stage filtration that includes biological, chemical and mechanical
  • Fits up to 75 gallon aquariums
  • Experience a unique hang-on-the-back water polishing unit that makes maintenance quick and easy, simply replace the cartridge
  • Chose between a more traditional water return in a spray bar or water director
  • Included: Quick Disconnect Valves Pump Locking Heads Water Intake/Output Connections Hoses Media: Activated Carbon, Coarse Foam, Bio-Balls, Bio-Ceramic Rings Water Polishing Unit with Cartridge
  • Manufacture: Central Garden & Pet
  • Item Weight: 14.9 pounds
  • Product Dimensions: 8.25 x 8.25 x 17.5 inches
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Aqueon 100532120
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.2']
  • Quality [star rating='3.7']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.2']
  • Affordability [star rating='5']

Aqueon 100532120 Final Thoughts

"It's heavy and awkward."

I use Marinelands refillable cartridge for extra carbon on the extra slots. They can be very noisy at the impeller, which sometimes quiets in time, but may not. SO, I sat down and read EVERY little thing in rhe instructions. Firstly, I'd recommend taking the motor apart and putting it back together. I returned the Aqua Clear 70 and promptly received a replacement. DO NOT CLEAN OR WASH the paper wheel itself. My baby turtle even loves it so much he won't let go.

Overall Score
4.4

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

Honorable Mentions - More Top Selling 100 Gallon Aquarium Filters

5. Polar Aurora 3-Stage External Aquarium Filter 265gph with Builtin Pump Kit Canister

User Ratings: 63 9

Polar Aurora First Impressions

"A very obvious waterfall."

The lever on the bottom helps even the filter out. One thing I think is worth mentioning is the need to prime the filter. I liked the clean lined look and the pull out basket. I used to work as a marine biologist for a major state aquarium. You CAN rinse the old ones in an emergency. I liked the clean lined look and the pull out basket. I ordered 4 of these, for different tanks of course.

  • Polar Aurora 3-Stage External Aquarium Filter 265gph with Builtin Pump Kit Canister
  • 3 media trays capable of handling your choice of filtration media; Comes with an adjustable spray bar. This is a helpful feature if you want to adjust the output flow from the filter. No Light in the package!
  • This Aquarium Filter is good for up to 75 gallon fish tanks, can be applied Flow rate: 264 GPH (1000L/hr) Pump Power: 18W Hose size: 3/4" Max-H: 4.6 feet.
  • Canister filters for aquariums use high water pressure, from a properly powered pump, to force water through the dense filter media. A pump can draw water from an under-gravel filter, and run it into a canister for double filtration.
  • Convenient self-priming pump that eliminates the need for manual siphoning; Single valve disconnect & priming pump ease routine maintenance.
  • The 3 flexible media trays allow you to add other filtration media to achieve excellent mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration.
  • (1) Input and Output Discreteness
  • (1) Barrel Head
  • (1) Main Canister Body
  • Manufacture: Polar Aurora
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Polar Aurora
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4']
  • Quality [star rating='3.9']
  • Value For Money [star rating='5']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.4']

Polar Aurora Final Thoughts

"So far so good!"

Your fish and you will be much happier and stun everyone else. I use Marinelands refillable cartridge for extra carbon on the extra slots. I'd highly recommend not replacing the bio material& sponge, ever. All in all, I highly recommend this filter and I'm a extremely happy customer! The only thing you hear is the water and even that is a soothing sound. This filter has is a very simple and efficient design. It sounds like a Big Air pump buzzing.

Overall Score
4.3

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

6. Polar Aurora 3 Stage 100 Gallon Aquarium Fish Tank Canister Filter + 9W UV Sterilizer 370 GPH

User Ratings: 72 10

Polar Aurora First Impressions

"This is the one."

I decided to go with this filter since I had a positive experience previously. There is a sound from the water shooting into the tank! Early on it seems to be working as advertised. I had to lower the surface by 3 inches to get sufficient agitation. The filter arrived within 2 days and was the exact same as Petsmart's. I've been researching so many things on how to take care of them. Oscars are very messy fish, especially during feeding.

  • Polar Aurora 3 Stage 100 Gallon Aquarium Fish Tank Canister Filter + 9W UV Sterilizer 370 GPH
  • good
  • high quality
  • With free media
  • DIMENSION: 10 X 10 X 17 inches, Max Flow Rate: 370 GPH (1400L/h)
  • 3-stage
  • Manufacture: Polar Aurora
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Polar Aurora
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.5']
  • Quality [star rating='5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='5']
  • Affordability [star rating='4']

Polar Aurora Final Thoughts

"Will UPDATE!"

I was worried that it might be too much for my aquarium or that it would be loud. I want to answer some of the complaints I've read. SO, I sat down and read EVERY little thing in rhe instructions. A canister or in tank filter is ten times more work and messy. I had to lower the surface by 3 inches to get sufficient agitation. Once it loses its charge, you'll need to replace it. My baby turtle even loves it so much he won't let go.

Overall Score
4.2

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

7. AE-SHOP KZKR Aquarium Filter Fish Tank Upper Trickle Box Filters System with Pump

User Ratings: 58 8

AE-SHOP AM3USA114 First Impressions

"Just a low hum."

My baby turtle even loves it so much he won't let go. Unlike my old HOB filter, it doesn't sound like a leaky toilet. SO, I sat down and read EVERY little thing in rhe instructions. The first night I had the pump going it started making a screeching sound. The instructions are a bit to much for me. Overall I would recommend this item. They are easily found from mom-n-pop pet stores to large chain stores.

  • AE-SHOP KZKR Aquarium Filter Fish Tank Upper Trickle Box Filters System with Pump
  • Most efficient! You will see a crystal water in 1 day.
  • 18 filter boxes design, 3 layer nature physical biological and chemical filter system always provide oxygen and healthiest water
  • Save your time.No more changing water in 3 years. just take 1 minute to add water when evaporation
  • NO more Complicate cleaning work! EASY to Clean and Change material, just open the box and change the filter material when needed
  • Pump recommended:740-1100 GPH. Designed for Aquariums tank 75 80 85 90 95 100 Gallons,Please note the filter material is not included in the purchase order.
  • Manufacture: KZKR
  • Product Dimensions: 38.9 x 10.2 x 4.7 inches; 14.25 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The AE-SHOP AM3USA114
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.3']
  • Quality [star rating='4.8']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.5']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.4']

AE-SHOP AM3USA114 Final Thoughts

"You'll be happy with it."

I can hear it 3 rooms away grinding away. First they are simple and designed to pump and filter aquarium water. BUT after some YouTube research I was able to fix the noise issue. Overall, I'm very happy with this filter. I stopped the pump and I pulled it apart. All in all, I highly recommend this filter and I'm a extremely happy customer! DO NOT CLEAN OR WASH the paper wheel itself.

Overall Score
4.1

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

8. hygger Sponge Filter, Aquarium Filter Double Sponge Replaceable Media with 4 Biochemical Sponges and...

User Ratings: 65 6

hygger First Impressions

"- Plug it into power."

I've looked at so many filters and reviews. Firstly, I'd recommend taking the motor apart and putting it back together. I've looked at so many filters and reviews. DO NOT CLEAN OR WASH the paper wheel itself. I used to work as a marine biologist for a major state aquarium. I was new to the hobby and didn't realize that Tetras were inferior filters. Firstly, I'd recommend taking the motor apart and putting it back together.

  • hygger Sponge Filter, Aquarium Filter Double Sponge Replaceable Media with 4 Biochemical Sponges and 1 Bag of Filtered Ceramic Balls Ultra Quiet Filter Fish Tank (S/M)
  • 【Biochemical Filtration】 With air pump as the power source, combined with mechanical filtration, the principle of biological filtration utilizes multi-level filtration to culture beneficial nitrifying bacteria, and the sponge can absorb fine particles to achieve the effect of purifying water. The water flow is controlled by the airflow, which is small and slow and does not impact the fish.
  • 【Changeable filter material】Two kinds of replaceable filter materials: sponge + filter box. You can easily remove 2 sponges from the filter for cleaning or replacement, with a total of 4 sponges. It also has a media container with a ceramic filter inside to help eliminate harmful substances and provide additional cleaning power. Other filters can be replaced.
  • 【Easy to use】 Use a 4mm air hose to connect one end to the air pump and the other end to this tank filter. The outlet pipe in the sponge filter can be adjusted so that you can change the direction and height of the water flow (not including the pump and air hose, please choose a powerful pump for this filter according to your tank size).
  • 【Upgrade filter】Aquarium filter can increase the amount of water dissolved, ultra-quiet, not easy to block, can be installed with filter material. Multi-layer design of filter cotton, with a large surface area, full filtration without dead ends. The suction cup is strong and secure. The bottom direction is 360 degrees rotatable.
  • 【Suitable Size】 The medium sponge filter is 6.3 inch width and 9 inch to 13 inch height, the sponge inside circle diameter is 0.59 inch, suggest for 15 to 55 gallon fish tank. For larger tank you may need 2 of this filter. Suitable for shrimp tanks, betta fish tanks, breeding ponds, goldfish, juvenile fish or other fish.
  • Manufacture: hygger
  • Editor's Impressions Of The hygger
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.4']
  • Quality [star rating='4.7']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.6']
  • Affordability [star rating='4']

hygger Final Thoughts

"Seriously."

Clean the foam insert apparently it pulled a lot of dirt and needs cleaned. It's only rated at 25 gph less, but holds considerably less media. As for performance, I couldn't ask for a better filter. I checked and cleaned it and still just as loud. Oscars are very messy fish, especially during feeding. Once I found that, the world was right again. Overall, I'm very happy with this filter.

Overall Score
4.3

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

9. Odyssea EX 250 DX Internal Filter Powerhead Aquarium Water Pump Submersible

User Ratings: 65 3

Odyssea First Impressions

"This filter is perfect!"

I own 3 of these and besides my canister they are my favorite filters. I bought a top fin 55 gallon aquarium on sale. I thought that U had put it together wrong so I took it all apart and started over. I put it together, reading instructions of course. They can be very noisy at the impeller, which sometimes quiets in time, but may not. They are easily found from mom-n-pop pet stores to large chain stores. The Aqua Clear is on the left and the Aqueon is on the right.

  • Odyssea EX 250 DX Internal Filter Powerhead Aquarium Water Pump Submersible
  • Flow Rate: 250 GPH
  • For use with 30G - 40G
  • Include air line, filter cone, suction cups
  • Freshwater and Saltwater aquariums
  • 110V Only
  • Manufacture: Odyssea
  • Product Dimensions: 6.25 x 3 x 10.5 inches; 1.4 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Odyssea
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4']
  • Quality [star rating='4.5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.3']
  • Affordability [star rating='5']

Odyssea Final Thoughts

"Added 3 baby turtles."

Months later, this filter is still working great on my 29 gal set up. Overall, I'm very happy with this filter. I also don't like how short the intake tube is. I had a lot of particles in the water. I bought a top fin 55 gallon aquarium on sale. I have the topfin 29 gallon tank and used the HOB filter it came with. Lift the sticking wheel outuse a Q-tip to clean the slots where the wheel rests.

Overall Score
4.3

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

10. Powkoo Sponge Filter, Aquarium Fish Tank Sponge Filter Bio Filter Sponge Shrimp Betta Shrimp Fry Tan...

User Ratings: 65

Powkoo HJK90001BLK First Impressions

"No issues."

Fill up the media slot with water until it's full. Doing research I learned that if I add more filter media, the noise will subside. They are easily found from mom-n-pop pet stores to large chain stores. Once I found that, the world was right again. I checked and cleaned it and still just as loud. Lightly clean the silver roller pins on the ends. Of course the sound all depends on how much water is in the aquarium.

  • Powkoo Sponge Filter, Aquarium Fish Tank Sponge Filter Bio Filter Sponge Shrimp Betta Shrimp Fry Tank Filter
  • Air driven sponge filter, work great without noise, it provides both mechanical and biological filtration, suitable for freshwater and saltwater
  • 7 layer ribbed sponge, means more surface area for beneficial bacterial to colonize and faster cycling, it quickly established a bio filter and increase extra oxygen, keep your fish tank crystal clear and clean
  • Easy to use: connect the airline tubing to the air inlet of the sponge filter, the other end to the air pump, oxygenates your tank, provide both aeration and filtration for your fish
  • Easy to clean: just remove the sponge from the filter, simply rinse and squeeze it in used tank water, never use tap water, recommend to rinse the sponge once a month
  • 【Fits fish tank size: 1 to 5 gallon】Comes with suction cup, can be easily stick to any position in fish tank glass, excellent for shrimp tank, betta tank, breeding tank, planted aquarium, turtle tank, goldfish, fry, guppies, snails, crayfish, axolotls
  • Manufacture: Powkoo
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Powkoo HJK90001BLK
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='5']
  • Quality [star rating='4']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.8']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.8']

Powkoo HJK90001BLK Final Thoughts

"Added 3 baby turtles."

The Aqua Clear is on the left and the Aqueon is on the right. I also like the fact that it is relatively low profile and discreet looking. Controlling the flow rate doesn't require modifying the filter. I plan to cycle this new AC 50 on a separate tank and then xfer it to the 20 gallon. I DONT KNOW WHY MANY THINK THIS IS A NOISY FILTER. I ordered 4 of these, for different tanks of course. I AM IMPRESSED THAT IT WORKS AS IT ACTUALLY SHOULD!

Overall Score
4.6

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

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