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']

Here Are Some Other Related Aquarium Filters

2. OASE Indoor Aquatics Biomaster

User Ratings: 72 6

OASE Indoor Aquatics 55147 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. I've looked at so many filters and reviews. This lives up to the praise that people give it. I want to answer some of the complaints I've read. I also don't like how short the intake tube is. I used a small pair of pliers and carefully got the pebbles out. This lives up to the praise that people give it.

• OASE Indoor Aquatics Biomaster
• External filter operates quietly to circulate and filter your aquarium water
• Includes 4-stage filtration: biological, mechanical, chemical, and prefiltration
• Hel-x, suspended filter media, creates the optimal surface area for beneficial bacteria growth
• The sealed filtration pathway allows you to get the full benefits from all 4-stages of filtration
• The easy clean prefilter module can be removed separately from the rest of the filter for simple cleaning and to extend the life of your filter
• Manufacture: OASE
• Product Dimensions: 9.4 x 9.4 x 19 inches; 16.5 Pounds

• Editor's Impressions Of The OASE Indoor Aquatics 55147
• Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.8']
• Quality [star rating='4.4']
• Value For Money [star rating='3.8']
• Affordability [star rating='3.5']

3. 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']

4. ViaAqua Extra Thick Japanese Filter Mat Aquarium Koi Pond Media Pad Custom Fit Sizes

User Ratings: 52

ViaAqua First Impressions

"Seriously."

Worst case is that the motor could burn out. Firstly, I'd recommend taking the motor apart and putting it back together. My old pump was not working very well so I had to make a major clean up. Doing research I learned that if I add more filter media, the noise will subside. A canister or in tank filter is ten times more work and messy. I was new to the hobby and didn't realize that Tetras were inferior filters. It's only rated at 25 gph less, but holds considerably less media.

• ViaAqua Extra Thick Japanese Filter Mat Aquarium Koi Pond Media Pad Custom Fit Sizes
• Improved thicker design: 1.5" thick
• The best biological media available
• Very firm and rigid
• Never need to replace, Sinking
• Dimensions: 20" x 20" x 1.5"; Package includes: 1 x Japanese filter pad
• Manufacture: Commodity Axis

• Editor's Impressions Of The ViaAqua
• Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.2']
• Quality [star rating='4.7']
• Value For Money [star rating='3.3']
• Affordability [star rating='3.6']

5. SunSun Sun HW-704B 525 GPH 5-Stage External Canister Filter with 9W Uv Sterilizer

User Ratings: 68 10

SunSun HW-704B First Impressions

"Suuuuupppeeerrrr Quiet."

I will never buy any other HOB no matter what deal they might be offering. My old pump was not working very well so I had to make a major clean up. I still have my original wheels on the year old 350 with no issues whatsoever. The instructions are a bit to much for me. I wasn't able to fill my tank fully because there was little to no surface agitation. I have had no issues with it being to loud. I attempted to clean and lube the impeller, but to no avail.

• SunSun Sun HW-704B 525 GPH 5-Stage External Canister Filter with 9W Uv Sterilizer
• 5 stages with 9W UV, 525GPH (2000Lph)
• Good for up to 150 gallon fish tanks
• Dimension: 12" L x 12" W x 18" H
• Built in 9 watt UV sterilizer for controlling algae spores/bacteria and promoting clear water
• 4 Large media baskets for all your media need
• Manufacture: Ming Trading LLC
• Product Dimensions: 15 x 19.3 x 12 inches; 18.2 Pounds

• Editor's Impressions Of The SunSun HW-704B
• Filter Effectiveness [star rating='5']
• Quality [star rating='5']
• Value For Money [star rating='4.1']
• Affordability [star rating='4.9']

6. Huijukon Double Sponge Filter Aquarium Fish Tank Filter Bio Media Filter with 2 Genuine Spare Sponge...

User Ratings: 50

Huijukon First Impressions

"Just a low hum."

I've looked at so many filters and reviews. The filter stopped working all of a sudden. Therefore, you wouldnt have 2 filters running. Lift the sticking wheel outuse a Q-tip to clean the slots where the wheel rests. There must be a huge batch of these units at Amazon right now that are bad. Also the maker should review the pump design. However, lately I've purchased the Aqua Clear 70 and 50.

• Huijukon Double Sponge Filter Aquarium Fish Tank Filter Bio Media Filter with 2 Genuine Spare Sponges
• Air powered sponge filter, comes with two media chambers where additional biological media can be added, both filtration and aeration in one solution, great flow, improve water quality and keeps water well oxygenated, works great without noise【Fits fish tank size: 15 to 60 gallon】
• Sponge filters provide both mechanical and biological filtration - traps floating debris and fine particles, protect your baby fish from being sucked up into the filter, aerobic bacteria colonize the sponge providing a bacterial substance to facilitate the nitrogen cycle, suitable for both freshwater and saltwater filters
• Double 9-layer ribbed sponges design, below comes with bio media, very porous ceramic rings that are great for housing bacteria, highly porous structure allows beneficial bacteria to develop quickly, you can replace this ceramic rings or mixed with other medias you like, 2 high density porous filter sponges(80ppi) mean more surface area for beneficial bacterial colonization and faster cycling, keep your fish tank crystal clear and clean
• Easy to setup: simply install an airline into the unit and turn on the air pump, great way to clean and oxygenate your tanks; Easy to clean: simply take out the sponges, rinse and squeeze them in tank water, remember to clean the sponges weekly and replace regularly
• Easy to use: save room, comes with 2 suction cups, can be installed anywhere under water and easy to hide behind plants and decor, never floating, air-water outlet is adjustable so you can change direction and height of the water flow; great solution for shrimp tank, betta tank, breeder tank, nano tank, turtle tank, hospital tank, goldfish, axolotls, guppies, fry, baby fish.
• Manufacture: Huijukon

• Editor's Impressions Of The Huijukon
• Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.7']
• Quality [star rating='2.5']
• Value For Money [star rating='4.2']
• Affordability [star rating='3.2']

7. hygger 2-10 Gallon Aquarium Bubbler Filter Air Driven Small Fish Tank Sponge Filter for Betta Fish S...

User Ratings: 72 4

hygger First Impressions

"I bought an FX6 in 2013."

I was also having oxygen issues because of this. I liked the clean lined look and the pull out basket. Your fish and you will be much happier and stun everyone else. Firstly, I'd recommend taking the motor apart and putting it back together. I checked and cleaned it and still just as loud. This one is working perfectly good FOR RIGHT NOW. Really happy with the money I was able to save.

• hygger 2-10 Gallon Aquarium Bubbler Filter Air Driven Small Fish Tank Sponge Filter for Betta Fish Shrimp Tank
• Ultra Quiet Betta Filter - this air-driven fish tank filter is a motor free filter, super quiet, can only hear the smoothing sound of bubble bursting in the water surface
• Effective Filtration - Mechanical pre-filter sponge captures debris and activated carbon for clean, clear aquarium water. Mini white bubbler stone produces constant, soft bubbles to agitate water, slow flow is great for betta fish, fry and shrimp
• Compact - Single small filter measures 4.1" x 0.8" x 7.6", recommend for 2-5 gallon fresh and salt water aquariums ; Dual filter measures 7" x 0.8" x 7.6", recommend for 6-10 gallon freshwater and saltwater aquariums
• Single sponge filter kit comes with 1 filter+ 3 packs filter cartridges + 1 white air stone+ 1 hanging clip. Dual sponge filter kit comes with 2 filters+ 6 packs filter cartridges + 1 white air stone + 2 hanging clips. Replace filter cartridge every 2-4 weeks depends on how many fish you house
• Easy to install - Connect aquarium filter with air tubing to air pump and ready to go (please note that 3/16 inch air tubing and air pump are excluded). Two suction cups and one hanger helps filter stays in place, no floating. Must be install vertically
• Super quiet, you can only hear the smoothing sound of bubble flowing
• Easy to assemble and use
• Comes with extra filter cartridge to replace
• Manufacture: hygger

• Editor's Impressions Of The hygger
• Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.5']
• Quality [star rating='3.5']
• Value For Money [star rating='4.7']
• Affordability [star rating='3.9']

8. HITOP Submersible Aquarium Internal Filter, Adjustable Underwater Filter, Corner Filter with Water P...

User Ratings: 44 18

HITOP HP-118 First Impressions

"Not ideal but it works."

This new AQ50 filter has loose bio-media, i. My tank was a mess when I got this pump. A canister or in tank filter is ten times more work and messy. Oscars are very messy fish, especially during feeding. Also the maker should review the pump design. I was worried that it might be too much for my aquarium or that it would be loud. Lightly clean the silver roller pins on the ends.

• HITOP Submersible Aquarium Internal Filter, Adjustable Underwater Filter, Corner Filter with Water Pump for Fish Tank up to 20 Gallon
• 3W Internal Filter: This aquarium filter quietly delivers 55 gallons per hour of crystal-clear water for your lovely fish, suitable for fresh or marine aquarium, perfect for 5 to 20 gallons, ideal choice for aquarium or turtle/aquatic reptiles use.
• Adjustable 55 GPH Water Pump, pump head with adjustable and directional water flow, spray bar option allows you to distribute water evenly helping aerate your tank.
• Space saving corner filter design, 5.7 x 1.6 x 2.4 in / 14.5 x 4 x 6cm, fish tank filter can be placed horizontally and easily hidden.
• 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: Offer 12 months warranty, leaves no worries for your purchase.
• Manufacture: Haisen

• Editor's Impressions Of The HITOP HP-118
• Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4']
• Quality [star rating='4']
• Value For Money [star rating='4.4']
• Affordability [star rating='2.9']

9. 5W 400L/H Turtle Fish Tank Filter, Quiet Flow Bio Filtration Low Level Waterfall Filter for Aquarium...

User Ratings: 57 6

Guinio First Impressions

"I only used one."

I had a lot of particles in the water. All in all, I highly recommend this filter and I'm a extremely happy customer! Never ever ever use it past a year. I was using a Tetra in-tank filter previously. I DONT KNOW WHY MANY THINK THIS IS A NOISY FILTER. Your fish and you will be much happier and stun everyone else. I was also having oxygen issues because of this.

• 5W 400L/H Turtle Fish Tank Filter, Quiet Flow Bio Filtration Low Level Waterfall Filter for Aquariums Fish Tank Turtle, 105 GPH
• Turtle filter function: efficiently clean and filter water, help water circulation, help clean water, provide healthy water for your aquarium.
• Scope of application: suitable for most reptiles, amphibians, frogs, small fish, etc. Suitable for any aquarium fish tank no more than 20 L（5 gallons）.
• Easy installation: The water filter can be hung on the aquarium or easily fixed with a suction cup. Waterfall-type water circulation, smooth water flow increases the amount of dissolved oxygen in the water tank.
• Scope of application: The 5w turtle filter suitable for most reptiles, amphibians, frogs, small fish, etc. Suitable for any aquarium fish tank no more than 20 L（5 gallons）.
• Silent design: safe, energy-saving and environmentally friendly, reliable and durable filters will not produce too much noise, providing you with a quiet environment.
• Manufacture: Guinio

• Editor's Impressions Of The Guinio
• Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.1']
• Quality [star rating='4.9']
• Value For Money [star rating='3.1']
• Affordability [star rating='3.8']

10. Aqueon 06078 QuietFlow 55 Power Filter, 250GPH

User Ratings: 41 16

Aqueon 06078 First Impressions

"+Great price."

I wasn't able to fill my tank fully because there was little to no surface agitation. What I don't like is how much smaller it is than the Aqueon. Get it and take heed to what I wrote. The filter stopped working all of a sudden. Fill up the media slot with water until it's full. I was also having oxygen issues because of this. This filter has is a very simple and efficient design.

• Aqueon 06078 QuietFlow 55 Power Filter, 250GPH
• Dense floss removes particles and debris
• Activated carbon removes toxins, odors and discoloration
• Patented bio-holster removes toxic ammonia and nitrites
• Diffuser grid removes additional toxins while adding oxygen for more active fish
• Reduces splashing makeing the return exceptionally quiet
• Manufacture: Aqueon
• Item Weight: 2.87 pounds
• Product Dimensions: 6 x 6.62 x 5.6 inches

• Editor's Impressions Of The Aqueon 06078
• Filter Effectiveness [star rating='2.9']
• Quality [star rating='3.9']
• Value For Money [star rating='2.5']
• Affordability [star rating='2.7']