Editor's Choice - Our Favorite AA Aquarium Aquarium Filters

1. AA Aquarium Green Killing Machine 9 Watt | Internal UV Sterilizer System with Power Head | Kills Alg...

User Ratings: 76 7

AA Aquarium AAUV9W First Impressions

"All around great product."

I also like the fact that it is relatively low profile and discreet looking. The Aqua Clear is on the left and the Aqueon is on the right. Get it and take heed to what I wrote. They can be very noisy at the impeller, which sometimes quiets in time, but may not. I have contacted customer service to see if I can get a replacement unit. With the 350's inexpensive price point, you can’t go wrong with this powerful filter. I will pick 3-4 of these at one time over a single system any day.

  • AA Aquarium Green Killing Machine 9 Watt | Internal UV Sterilizer System with Power Head | Kills Algae, Bacteria, and Waterborne Pathogens | Easy, Submersible Installation
  • Say GOODBYE to GREEN and HELLO to CLEAN. AA Aquarium’s Green Killing Machine eliminates cloudiness, algae & bacteria to give your fish the crystal clear water they need for perfect health!
  • The #1 UV in the US – over ½ Million sold. Patented technology that no one else has and the ONLY UL Safety Tested internal UV kit – Be safe with your tank and fish!
  • Patented Sealed UV BULB - you never touch glass! Chambered bulb assembly for high water dwell time and outstanding efficacy! No gloves-No mess-EZ bulb changes!
  • NO TOOLS REQUIRED! 10 minute installation - Follow simple steps to get clear water in days. No Guessing – Control Box LED tells you when to change bulbs!
  • 3 Year Warranty on Pump; 4 pcs sponge pre-filter; Pump rated 220L/Hour. Perfect for aquariums up to 50 Gallons (210 L). UL/cUL Listed
  • Manufacture: AA AQUARIUM
  • Product Dimensions: 3.3 x 3.7 x 11 inches; 2 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The AA Aquarium AAUV9W
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.2']
  • Quality [star rating='4.8']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.1']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.8']

AA Aquarium AAUV9W Final Thoughts

"Huge capacity."

With the 350's inexpensive price point, you can’t go wrong with this powerful filter. I can take apart a car engine and put it back together. The instructions are a bit to much for me. This filter really does a good job. I still have my original wheels on the year old 350 with no issues whatsoever. This is a well designed unit and a lot of bang for the buck. One thing I think is worth mentioning is the need to prime the filter.

Overall Score
4.4

[star rating="4.4"]
(2330 Points)

2. hygger Thin Aquarium Sponge Filter, in-Tank Filter with 2 Replaceable Spare Filter Cartridge,Quiet H...

User Ratings: 65 9

hygger First Impressions

"IMPORTANT!"

I was new to the hobby and didn't realize that Tetras were inferior filters. The current is strong but you can adjust it with the midsection lever. It wasn't producing much surface agitation. SO, I sat down and read EVERY little thing in rhe instructions. This lives up to the praise that people give it. Really happy with the money I was able to save. SO, I sat down and read EVERY little thing in rhe instructions.

  • hygger Thin Aquarium Sponge Filter, in-Tank Filter with 2 Replaceable Spare Filter Cartridge,Quiet Hang On Fish Tank Filter with Suction Cup for 2 to 10 Gallon (S/M
  • SLIM BODY: Fish Tank Filter does not take up space, the thickness is only 0.79in, and gives the fish a spacious and comfortable swimming space. Equipped with a fish tank wall hook, the hook can be adjusted according to the water level, and the hanging is more convenient. It is equipped with a powerful suction cup, which can be tightly attached to the fish tank wall.
  • MULTI-FUNCTION FILTER:①Filter impurities. Use replaceable filter cartridge to effectively purify water. ②Increase oxygen. Contain a small air stone, and bubble continuously. ③Water circulation system. The water outlet can be towards the left, right or front. ④Free to assemble. It can be used in a variety of combinations such as S+M , S+S, M+M, etc., then can use for larger fish tanks.
  • FILTRATION PRINCIPLE: The air flow drives the water flow to generate suction, which makes the water purified by the filter plate, and can increase the oxygen while filtering the water quality. The water flow is controlled by an air pump. Aquarium Filter is recommended to use an adjustable air pump, so that the water flow can be small or large.
  • EASY TO USE: Aquarium filter sponge intake is recommended to use a 0.16in inner diameter air hose (not included), connect one end to the air pump (not included), and the other end to this filter. S size suggest for 10 to 40 gallon fish tank. Hygger sponge filter is suitable for shrimp tanks, betta fish tanks, breeding ponds, turtle tanks, goldfish, juvenile fish or other fish.
  • REPLACEABLE FILTER CARTRIDGE: activated carbon + filter sponge, which can effectively filter harmful substances and small suspended impurities in water, remove odors in water, and keep water body clean. Submersible aquarium internal filter is suitable for freshwater and saltwater and even turtle tanks and other types of tanks. The S size is equipped with 2 spare filter cartridges.
  • S size contains 1 original filter cartridge + 2 spare filter cartridges.
  • The filter cartridge is composed of filter cotton + activated carbon + fixed plate + filter cotton.
  • We recommend to replace the filter cartridge every 2-4 weeks.
  • Manufacture: hygger
  • Editor's Impressions Of The hygger
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.3']
  • Quality [star rating='5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.1']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.4']

hygger Final Thoughts

"Just buy it!"

DO NOT CLEAN OR WASH the paper wheel itself. I have always used Marineland filters and been happy with them and their quality. The only thing you hear is the water and even that is a soothing sound. Oscars are very messy fish, especially during feeding. It wasn't producing much surface agitation. I will pick 3-4 of these at one time over a single system any day. In the afternoon the noises started again.

Overall Score
4.2

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

3. MarineLand Penguin 100 Power Filter, 100 GPH (PF0100B),Black

User Ratings: 65 10

MarineLand PF0100B First Impressions

"Coarse, medium, and fine."

I was worried that it might be too much for my aquarium or that it would be loud. I own 3 of these and besides my canister they are my favorite filters. You CAN rinse the old ones in an emergency. I thought that U had put it together wrong so I took it all apart and started over. Also price was very reasonable and shipping was fast. Fill up the media slot with water until it's full. Once I found that, the world was right again.

  • MarineLand Penguin 100 Power Filter, 100 GPH (PF0100B),Black
  • WITH ROTATING BIO-WHEEL: Patented Bio-Wheel technology provides excellent wet/dry biological filtration.
  • MULTI-STAGE FILTRATION: Delivers mechanical, chemical and biological aquarium filtration to maintain a clean aquatic environment.
  • COMPATIBILITY: Use with Marineland Rite-Size Filter Cartridges (see individual filter for sizing recommendations).
  • FIVE SIZES: Available in 75 GPH, 100 GPH, 150 GPH, 200 GPH and 350 GPH sizes.
  • Age Range Description: all ranges
  • Included Components: Marineland Penguin 100 Power Filter (upto 20 gal)
  • Manufacture: Marineland
  • Item Weight: 1.65 pounds
  • Product Dimensions: 5.5 x 5.5 x 8 inches
  • Editor's Impressions Of The MarineLand PF0100B
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.4']
  • Quality [star rating='4.9']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.2']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.9']

MarineLand PF0100B Final Thoughts

"You'll be happy with it."

It doesn't rise up hugely above the tank like a lot of HOB filters. The Aqua Clear is on the left and the Aqueon is on the right. I can take apart a car engine and put it back together. This is a well designed unit and a lot of bang for the buck. First they are simple and designed to pump and filter aquarium water. So, easy is good, both for us and our fish. SO I decided to order this for my 29 gallon tank.

Overall Score
4.2

[star rating="4.2"]
(2320 Points)

4. 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)

5. LiquaGen - Aquarium Reef Reverse Osmosis RO/DI Water Filter System + TDS Meter, Pressure Gauge and P...

User Ratings: 80

LiquaGen 617629986662 First Impressions

"A little goes a long way."

Replace activated carbon every 6-8 months ish. I stopped the pump and I pulled it apart. I bought a top fin 55 gallon aquarium on sale. Therefore, you wouldnt have 2 filters running. I want to answer some of the complaints I've read. It wasn't producing much surface agitation. Once it loses its charge, you'll need to replace it.

  • LiquaGen - Aquarium Reef Reverse Osmosis RO/DI Water Filter System + TDS Meter, Pressure Gauge and Patented Waste Water Reducer - ERP 1000 | Flow Rate Increaser with Chloramine Removal
  • The ultimate filtration system for reef tanks, salt water/fresh water aquarium's & other applications where ultra-pure water is necessary. Install in minutes. No membrane flushing required.
  • The patent permeate pump reduces the waste water by 80% & increases the flow by 2 times. No electricity required. Even if you water pressure is low the system will make sure the flow stays at an optimal level.
  • The pressure gauge makes it easy to tell when the filters needs to be replaced and water pressure levels for supreme water filter performance at all times. 150 Gallons per day water filtration capacity. MADE IN THE USA.
  • HM Digital TDS meter helps monitor the water quality ensuring 0 TDS water at all times. Pre soaked activated filters don't need to be flushed saving you valuable time & increases the life of the RO membrane by at least 2 years!
  • Removes up to 99% contaminants for safe 0 TDS/PPM water. This is the ultimate RO/DI system.
  • Manufacture: LiquaGen Water Technology
  • Product Dimensions: 17 x 7 x 16 inches; 14.5 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The LiquaGen 617629986662
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.6']
  • Quality [star rating='3.7']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.3']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.3']

LiquaGen 617629986662 Final Thoughts

"No need to unplug."

This lives up to the praise that people give it. Marineland bio pumps have been around forever. All in all, I highly recommend this filter and I'm a extremely happy customer! I sent a request for replacement and one came the next day. As for performance, I couldn't ask for a better filter. They are easily found from mom-n-pop pet stores to large chain stores. I ordered 4 of these, for different tanks of course.

Overall Score
4.6

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

6. Azoo Mignon Filter 150 Power Filter

User Ratings: 64 6

Azoo AZ13107 First Impressions

"I like the design."

I will never buy any other HOB no matter what deal they might be offering. Controlling the flow rate doesn't require modifying the filter. The Aqua Clear is on the left and the Aqueon is on the right. I had originally got one for my 75 Gallon tank housing an Oscar. I attempted to clean and lube the impeller, but to no avail. The Aqua Clear is on the left and the Aqueon is on the right. I'm currently in the process of receiving another replacement on that model.

  • Azoo Mignon Filter 150 Power Filter
  • Quiet and efficient
  • Hang on back design
  • Easy to maintain
  • Manufacture: Sevenports, Inc
  • Product Dimensions: 4 x 3.5 x 4.5 inches; 11.1 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Azoo AZ13107
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.2']
  • Quality [star rating='4']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.4']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.7']

Azoo AZ13107 Final Thoughts

"Suuuuupppeeerrrr Quiet."

I had originally got one for my 75 Gallon tank housing an Oscar. I thought that U had put it together wrong so I took it all apart and started over. I'm a mechanical engineer and understand design. I liked the clean lined look and the pull out basket. I checked and cleaned it and still just as loud. Doing research I learned that if I add more filter media, the noise will subside. I attempted to clean and lube the impeller, but to no avail.

Overall Score
4.3

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

7. Polar Aurora 265GPH / 266GPH / 370GPH / 525GPH External Aquarium Filter with Builtin Pump Kit Canist...

User Ratings: 69 7

Polar Aurora First Impressions

"Works great."

I also like the fact that it is relatively low profile and discreet looking. This is not my first experience with a marineland filter. This lives up to the praise that people give it. The current is strong but you can adjust it with the midsection lever. DO NOT CLEAN OR WASH the paper wheel itself. I AM IMPRESSED THAT IT WORKS AS IT ACTUALLY SHOULD! I eyedball everything and put it together with a look back at instructions.

  • Polar Aurora 265GPH / 266GPH / 370GPH / 525GPH External Aquarium Filter with Builtin Pump Kit Canister (266/370 / 525 GPH with Light)
  • Good for up to 75 gallon fish tanks SunSun parts can be applied Flow rate: 264 GPH (1000L/hr) Pump Power: 18W Hose size: 3/4" Max-H: 4.6 feet
  • 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!!!
  • Convenient self-priming pump that eliminates the need for manual siphoning; Single valve disconnect & priming pump ease routine maintenance
  • 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
  • The three 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.
  • 3 stages of filtration
  • 110-120V 50-60Hz
  • Max height: 4.6 feet
  • Manufacture: Polar Aurora
  • Product Dimensions: 10 x 10 x 16 inches; 11.75 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Polar Aurora
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.8']
  • Quality [star rating='3.8']
  • Value For Money [star rating='5']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.8']

Polar Aurora Final Thoughts

"This thing is super loud!"

They were great to deal with and the new filter is working great! One thing I think is worth mentioning is the need to prime the filter. I have had no issues with it being to loud. The instructions are a bit to much for me. I used a small pair of pliers and carefully got the pebbles out. Your fish and you will be much happier and stun everyone else. What I don't like is how much smaller it is than the Aqueon.

Overall Score
4.4

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

8. NO.17 Submersible Aquarium Internal Filter, Adjustable Fish Tank Filter with Water Pump for Fish Tan...

User Ratings: 61 8

NO.17 First Impressions

"That also didn't work."

This new AQ50 filter has loose bio-media, i. My old pump was not working very well so I had to make a major clean up. I was worried that it might be too much for my aquarium or that it would be loud. All in all, I highly recommend this filter and I'm a extremely happy customer! I own 3 of these and besides my canister they are my favorite filters. I'm a mechanical engineer and understand design. First they are simple and designed to pump and filter aquarium water.

  • NO.17 Submersible Aquarium Internal Filter, Adjustable Fish Tank Filter with Water Pump for Fish Tank
  • [8W AQUARIUM FILTER]: This Fish Tank Internal Filter is a system that create a clean and fresh living environment for your lovely fish. 8 watt is perfect for 10-50 gallon large aquariums.
  • [ADJUSTABLE 200 GPH WATER PUMP]: Max Flow Rate: 200 GPH(800L/H), Max Lift height: up to 3.28 Feet.(Length of power cord:1.6M=5.25ft). This water pump is designed for reliability and ultra-quiet operation, and you have a key to adjust the flow rate.
  • [2NOZZLE, 2 MODEL]: In this package, there have 2 nozzle, you could choose 2 nozzle to clean and fresh your aquarium.
  • [MULTIPLE FILTER MEDIA]: The filter with multiple filter media for all filtration purposes. Your lovely fish or turtle will have a clean and fresh environment for living.
  • [WARRANTY]: All products purchased from our company are guaranteed to keep in good repair for 180 days.If quality problems happen in guaranteed period, our company will maintain for free.
  • Manufacture: NO.17
  • Editor's Impressions Of The NO.17
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.1']
  • Quality [star rating='4.7']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.5']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.4']

NO.17 Final Thoughts

"Try it you wont be sorry."

The Marineland penguin 350 is a great filter. Never ever ever use it past a year. The filter stopped working all of a sudden. Also price was very reasonable and shipping was fast. I have purchased several Aqua Clear filters over the years. I was worried about some of the negative reviews. 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"]
(1222 Points)

9. Lee's 40/55 Original Undergravel Filter, 12-Inch by 48-Inch

User Ratings: 54 9

Lee's 13240 First Impressions

"That also didn't work."

I took it apart reassemble it and it's not pumping in the water. My box came in good condition, parts where in tact and new. The filter stopped working all of a sudden. However, lately I've purchased the Aqua Clear 70 and 50. Worst case is that the motor could burn out. My baby turtle even loves it so much he won't let go. I own 3 of these and besides my canister they are my favorite filters.

  • Lee's 40/55 Original Undergravel Filter, 12-Inch by 48-Inch
  • Made of special quality plastic which resists splitting and cracking
  • Also has optional flow-thru set-up for use with a power head
  • Size: 12-inch by 48-inch
  • Manufacture: Lee's Pet Products
  • Product Dimensions: 11.63 x 3.38 x 12.5 inches; 1 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Lee's 13240
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.4']
  • Quality [star rating='4.5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.7']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.4']

Lee's 13240 Final Thoughts

"It just is."

All in all, I highly recommend this filter and I'm a extremely happy customer! , that's what makes this so funny. There is a sound from the water shooting into the tank! I have had no issues with it being to loud. My old pump was not working very well so I had to make a major clean up. I was also having oxygen issues because of this. I decided to go with this filter since I had a positive experience previously.

Overall Score
4.1

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

10. 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)

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