Editor's Choice - Our Favorite 200 Gallon Aquarium Filters

1. Polar Aurora Free Media 4-Stage External Canister Filter with 9-watt Light, 525 GPH with Free Media

User Ratings: 73 7

Polar Aurora First Impressions

"Came on time."

I used to work as a marine biologist for a major state aquarium. That water got so dirty we had to keep changing it every 2 or 3 days. I can take apart a car engine and put it back together. I had to lower the surface by 3 inches to get sufficient agitation. The first night I had the pump going it started making a screeching sound. My tank was a mess when I got this pump. I have contacted customer service to see if I can get a replacement unit.

  • Polar Aurora Free Media 4-Stage External Canister Filter with 9-watt Light, 525 GPH with Free Media
  • Good for up to 200 gallon fish tanks. Maximum flow rate of 525GPH from built in pump
  • 4 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
  • Convenient self-priming pump that eliminates the need for manual siphoning; Single valve disconnect & priming pump ease routine maintenance
  • Built in 9 Watt Light for promoting clear water. With free media.
  • The four flexible media trays allow you to add other filtration media such as SunSun's activated carbons, ceramic rings or bio-balls to achieve excellent mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration.
  • 4 stages of filtration
  • 9w UV powered
  • 110-120V 50-60Hz
  • Manufacture: Polar Aurora
  • Product Dimensions: 12 x 12 x 19 inches; 19.6 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Polar Aurora
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='5']
  • Quality [star rating='5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.9']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.6']

Polar Aurora Final Thoughts

"All around great product."

The current is strong but you can adjust it with the midsection lever. I use Marinelands refillable cartridge for extra carbon on the extra slots. MAKE SURE YOU PUT WATER IN THE BACK OF THE FILTER! The first night I had the pump going it started making a screeching sound. I also don't like how short the intake tube is. Once it loses its charge, you'll need to replace it. I thought that U had put it together wrong so I took it all apart and started over.

Overall Score
4.4

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

Peoples Choice - Other Highly Rated 200 Gallon Aquarium Filters

2. Polar Aurora Free Media 265GPH / 370GPH / 525GPH External Aquarium Filter with Builtin Pump Kit Cani...

User Ratings: 69 5

Polar Aurora First Impressions

"A very obvious waterfall."

The filter stopped working all of a sudden. Early on it seems to be working as advertised. Following morning it was running quietly. Replace activated carbon every 6-8 months ish. I checked and cleaned it and still just as loud. I had to lower the surface by 3 inches to get sufficient agitation. There must be a huge batch of these units at Amazon right now that are bad.

  • Polar Aurora Free Media 265GPH / 370GPH / 525GPH External Aquarium Filter with Builtin Pump Kit Canister
  • Good for up to 200 gallon fish tanks.Maximum flow rate of 525GPH from built in pump
  • 4 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
  • Convenient self-priming pump that eliminates the need for manual siphoning; Single valve disconnect & priming pump ease routine maintenance
  • Built in 9 Watt Light for controlling algae spores/bacteria and promoting clear water
  • The four flexible media trays allow you to add other filtration media such as SunSun's activated carbons, ceramic rings or bio-balls to achieve excellent mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration.
  • 4 stages of filtration
  • 9w powered
  • 110-120V 50-60Hz
  • Manufacture: Polar Aurora
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Polar Aurora
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.8']
  • Quality [star rating='5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.9']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.3']

Polar Aurora Final Thoughts

"This is not."

Months later, this filter is still working great on my 29 gal set up. I had to lower the surface by 3 inches to get sufficient agitation. My baby turtle even loves it so much he won't let go. This new AQ50 filter has loose bio-media, i. My tank was a mess when I got this pump. I bought a top fin 55 gallon aquarium on sale. It's easy to clean and we all know about easy.

Overall Score
4.4

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

3. 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)

4. Zoo Med Turtle Clean External Canister Filter, 50-Gallon

User Ratings: 56 25

Zoo Med TC50 First Impressions

"Very pleased!"

The instructions are a bit to much for me. I contacted Marineland about my issue and they promptly sent me a new one right away! My baby turtle even loves it so much he won't let go. My fish are definitely happier and my water is crystal clear. The bacteria eats the nitrates in the water to help keep it clean. What I don't like is how much smaller it is than the Aqueon. My baby turtle even loves it so much he won't let go.

  • Zoo Med Turtle Clean External Canister Filter, 50-Gallon
  • External canister filter with slimline design for tight spaces
  • 200 gallon per hour rating, ideal for turtle habitats up to 50 gallons in size
  • The included spray bar increases oxygenation to help support your turtles' health
  • Double filtering system with both carbon and ceramic filters and internal biological recirculation
  • Combines mechanical, biological, and chemical filtration to give your pets the cleanest, healthiest habitat
  • Manufacture: Zoo Med
  • Product Dimensions: 11.2 x 9.5 x 14.5 inches; 1.2 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Zoo Med TC50
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3']
  • Quality [star rating='4.5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='2.9']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.4']

Zoo Med TC50 Final Thoughts

"This is not."

Of course the sound all depends on how much water is in the aquarium. First they are simple and designed to pump and filter aquarium water. My tank was a mess when I got this pump. Never ever ever use it past a year. Replace activated carbon every 6-8 months ish. I plan to cycle this new AC 50 on a separate tank and then xfer it to the 20 gallon. Clean the foam insert apparently it pulled a lot of dirt and needs cleaned.

Overall Score
3.7

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

Honorable Mentions - More Top Selling 200 Gallon Aquarium Filters

5. of OCEAN FREE Hydra 50 Internal Filter for 500-800 L (125-200 Gallon) Aquarium

User Ratings: 57 21

Ocean Free IF104 First Impressions

"I like the design."

You'll want to pull that water from the bottom. I will pick 3-4 of these at one time over a single system any day. Overall, I'm very happy with this filter. I plan to cycle this new AC 50 on a separate tank and then xfer it to the 20 gallon. This filter comes with a sponge, activated carbon, and bio material in a mesh bag. Oscars are very messy fish, especially during feeding. Therefore, you wouldnt have 2 filters running.

  • of OCEAN FREE Hydra 50 Internal Filter for 500-800 L (125-200 Gallon) Aquarium
  • Manufacture: Qian Hu
  • Product Dimensions: 4.84 x 3.27 x 11.57 inches; 2.43 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Ocean Free IF104
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.7']
  • Quality [star rating='3.1']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.8']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.8']

Ocean Free IF104 Final Thoughts

"Great price."

I returned the Aqua Clear 70 and promptly received a replacement. It's only rated at 25 gph less, but holds considerably less media. I put it together, reading instructions of course. Really happy with the money I was able to save. I wasn't able to fill my tank fully because there was little to no surface agitation. Once it loses its charge, you'll need to replace it. I used to have a 37 gallon eclipse aquarium.

Overall Score
3.9

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

6. SunSun HW-302 3-Stage External Canister Aquarium Filter 264GPH

User Ratings: 66 10

Flexzion HW-302 First Impressions

"This thing is super loud!"

They were great to deal with and the new filter is working great! Also price was very reasonable and shipping was fast. You do have to unplug it for those two jobs. I decided to go with this filter since I had a positive experience previously. I can hear it 3 rooms away grinding away. Of course the sound all depends on how much water is in the aquarium. I ordered 4 of these, for different tanks of course.

  • SunSun HW-302 3-Stage External Canister Aquarium Filter 264GPH
  • 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
  • 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
  • Convenient self-priming pump that eliminates the need for manual siphoning; Single valve disconnect & priming pump ease routine maintenance
  • Provides quiet, efficient filtration for fresh and saltwater aquariums is great for living rooms, offices or bedrooms
  • Manufacture: Ming Trading LLC
  • Product Dimensions: 10 x 13 x 15 inches; 9.8 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Flexzion HW-302
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='5']
  • Quality [star rating='3.7']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.1']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.8']

Flexzion HW-302 Final Thoughts

"A THUMBS UP."

Marineland bio pumps have been around forever. Your fish and you will be much happier and stun everyone else. So, easy is good, both for us and our fish. MAKE SURE YOU PUT WATER IN THE BACK OF THE FILTER! I've looked at so many filters and reviews. You can't really tell though, and the filter is working great. This filter comes with a sponge, activated carbon, and bio material in a mesh bag.

Overall Score
4.2

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

7. Aquarium Reef and Deionization Reverse Osmosis RODI Water Filtration System - 4 Stage | 150 GPD

User Ratings: 68

Oceanic Water Systems First Impressions

"Expensive."

Fill up the media slot with water until it's full. I want to answer some of the complaints I've read. This lives up to the praise that people give it. Doing research I learned that if I add more filter media, the noise will subside. I want to answer some of the complaints I've read. Overall, I like the 350's slim back design, and be able to add up to 4 cartridges. I was worried that it might be too much for my aquarium or that it would be loud.

  • Aquarium Reef and Deionization Reverse Osmosis RODI Water Filtration System - 4 Stage | 150 GPD
  • This product is great for aquariums, laboratory testing, and other applications for pure water. Pre- Assembled system for easy installation. Installation takes approximately 5 minutes!
  • Ideal for Reef Tanks, Salt-Water and Fresh-Water Aquariums by the process of deionization ensuring zero ppm water, optimal for fish, coral, and other Marine life & plants
  • Pre-Assembled and Very Easy to Install. Usable with chlorinated and well-water sources. Great for freshwater or saltwater aquariums
  • Perfect for city water that is treated with low amounts of chlorine, or well water with very minimal contaminants.
  • Air-leak tested, leak-free fittings and long lasting filters ensure durability and mitigate chances for damage and breakage. BPA free to supplement a safe environment.
  • Manufacture: Oceanic Water Systems
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Oceanic Water Systems
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.9']
  • Quality [star rating='4.9']
  • Value For Money [star rating='5']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.6']

Oceanic Water Systems Final Thoughts

"IMPORTANT!"

Just rinse them out once a month, don't throw that beneficial bacteria away. Your fish and you will be much happier and stun everyone else. I've been researching so many things on how to take care of them. It sounds like a Big Air pump buzzing. SO I decided to order this for my 29 gallon tank. However, lately I've purchased the Aqua Clear 70 and 50. This filter really does a good job.

Overall Score
4.7

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

8. CNZ 7" Holder for Aquarium Reef Tank Sock Filter Bag

User Ratings: 56 10

CNZ CNZSFH7 First Impressions

"And it is so quiet."

What I don't like is how much smaller it is than the Aqueon. I decided to go with this filter since I had a positive experience previously. Overall, I like the 350's slim back design, and be able to add up to 4 cartridges. A canister or in tank filter is ten times more work and messy. Worst case is that the motor could burn out. It sounds like a Big Air pump buzzing. You do have to unplug it for those two jobs.

  • CNZ 7" Holder for Aquarium Reef Tank Sock Filter Bag
  • Easy-to-install filter bag holder for any sump filtration system
  • enhances mechanical filtration
  • Can be use on acrylic or glass tank
  • Fit up to 3/4 inch of the thickness of tank glass
  • Package includes: 1x 7" holder, 2 durable plastic screws
  • Manufacture: CNZ
  • Product Dimensions: 11 x 6 x 2 inches; 11.64 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The CNZ CNZSFH7
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.1']
  • Quality [star rating='4.9']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.7']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.5']

CNZ CNZSFH7 Final Thoughts

"- Plug it into power."

LOW and BEHOLD, LMAO, I missed where you had to put water in the back of the filter. SO, I sat down and read EVERY little thing in rhe instructions. In the afternoon the noises started again. This filter comes with a sponge, activated carbon, and bio material in a mesh bag. Oscars are very messy fish, especially during feeding. It sounds like a Big Air pump buzzing. I'd highly recommend not replacing the bio material& sponge, ever.

Overall Score
4.1

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

9. Imagitarium Replacement F Filter Rectagular Sponges, Pack of 2

User Ratings: 79

Imagitarium First Impressions

"Expensive."

I used to have a 37 gallon eclipse aquarium. I will pick 3-4 of these at one time over a single system any day. I was worried that it might be too much for my aquarium or that it would be loud. It wasn't producing much surface agitation. I was worried about some of the negative reviews. Just rinse them out once a month, don't throw that beneficial bacteria away. BUT after some YouTube research I was able to fix the noise issue.

  • Imagitarium Replacement F Filter Rectagular Sponges, Pack of 2
  • Replacement Filter Sponges from Imagitarium
  • Use with Imagitarium aquariums and filters compatible with Replacement F Filter Rectangular Sponges
  • Helps remove impurities from water
  • Simple to use and install
  • Manufacture: Imagitarium
  • Item Weight: 0.915 ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Imagitarium
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.1']
  • Quality [star rating='4.5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.8']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.9']

Imagitarium Final Thoughts

"5 minutes."

The lever on the bottom helps even the filter out. Early on it seems to be working as advertised. My box came in good condition, parts where in tact and new. I've been researching so many things on how to take care of them. I use Marinelands refillable cartridge for extra carbon on the extra slots. All in all, I highly recommend this filter and I'm a extremely happy customer! Once I found that, the world was right again.

Overall Score
4.7

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

10. 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)

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