Editor's Choice - Our Favorite API Aquarium Filters

1. API NITRA-ZORB SIZE 6 Aquarium Canister Filter Filtration Pouch 1-Count Bag, Model:110A

User Ratings: 70 5

API 110A First Impressions

"Just buy it!"

There must be a huge batch of these units at Amazon right now that are bad. This is a good choice if you're tired of cleaning your turtle tank all the time. It's only rated at 25 gph less, but holds considerably less media. I'd highly recommend not replacing the bio material& sponge, ever. I ordered 4 of these, for different tanks of course. , that's what makes this so funny. Firstly, I'd recommend taking the motor apart and putting it back together.

  • API NITRA-ZORB SIZE 6 Aquarium Canister Filter Filtration Pouch 1-Count Bag, Model:110A
  • Contains one (1) API NITRA-ZORB SIZE 6 Aquarium Canister Filter Filtration Pouch 1-Count Bag
  • Removes toxins that can be harmful to fish and lead to algae growth.
  • Removes ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate from aquarium water.
  • Easy-to-use pre-dosed pouch fits most canister filters on the market, for use in freshwater aquariums
  • Use when starting a new aquarium and when ammonia or nitrite is detected, replace every 2 months.
  • Manufacture: Aquarium Pharmaceuticals
  • Product Dimensions: 5 x 1 x 9.5 inches; 8.2 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The API 110A
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.6']
  • Quality [star rating='3.6']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.4']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.6']

API 110A Final Thoughts

"Just a tip!"

It was perfectly quiet without any extra effort on my part. I'm a mechanical engineer and understand design. Now I'm having the same issue with the Aqua Clear 50. I AM IMPRESSED THAT IT WORKS AS IT ACTUALLY SHOULD! With the 350's inexpensive price point, you can’t go wrong with this powerful filter. You'll want to pull that water from the bottom. My old pump was not working very well so I had to make a major clean up.

Overall Score
4.4

[star rating="4.4"]
(1052 Points)

Peoples Choice - Other Highly Rated API Aquarium Filters

2. API Filstar XP

User Ratings: 58 15

API 720 First Impressions

"I should loosen it up."

, that's what makes this so funny. I ordered 4 of these, for different tanks of course. The filter arrived within 2 days and was the exact same as Petsmart's. However, lately I've purchased the Aqua Clear 70 and 50. I put it together, reading instructions of course. I have the topfin 29 gallon tank and used the HOB filter it came with. I used a small pair of pliers and carefully got the pebbles out.

  • API Filstar XP
  • Contains one (1) API FILSTAR XP FILTER SIZE S Aquarium Canister Filter 1-Count Box
  • Provides powerful filtration for perfectly balanced and crystal clear aquarium water.
  • Very easy to use and maintain; allows for centralized control of all the functions of the filtration system.
  • Quick disconnect, leak free, fast cleaning, and self-priming.
  • Allows the use of various filtration media available in the API range, and meets your specific freshwater and saltwater requirements.
  • Manufacture: Aquarium Pharmaceuticals
  • Product Dimensions: 9 x 13.5 x 12.75 inches; 10.7 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The API 720
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.6']
  • Quality [star rating='3.3']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.9']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.4']

API 720 Final Thoughts

"SO THEREFORE."

I can hear it 3 rooms away grinding away. I used a small pair of pliers and carefully got the pebbles out. My tank was a mess when I got this pump. This is a well designed unit and a lot of bang for the buck. Get it and take heed to what I wrote. This filter has is a very simple and efficient design. I use Marinelands refillable cartridge for extra carbon on the extra slots.

Overall Score
3.9

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

3. API FILSTAR XP Canister Filter Spare Parts Such as Canister Clips, Quick Disconnect, Gasket, impelle...

User Ratings: 74 7

API 720D First Impressions

"In one day crystal clear."

The bacteria eats the nitrates in the water to help keep it clean. I DONT KNOW WHY MANY THINK THIS IS A NOISY FILTER. This filter has is a very simple and efficient design. Overall I would recommend this item. Basically, make sure everything that is suppose to spin, does so smoothly. You CAN rinse the old ones in an emergency. I was worried that it might be too much for my aquarium or that it would be loud.

  • API FILSTAR XP Canister Filter Spare Parts Such as Canister Clips, Quick Disconnect, Gasket, impellers and More
  • Contains one (1) API FILSTAR XP QUICK DISCONNECT Aquarium Canister Filter Spare Part 1-Count
  • Replacement quick disconnect for API FILSTAR XP S, M, L, XL (or RENA FILSTAR xP1, xP2, xP3, and xP4) canister filters
  • Includes one quick disconnect with O rings.
  • Manufacture: Mars Fishcare Inc.
  • Product Dimensions: 8.13 x 2.25 x 8 inches; 2.4 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The API 720D
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='5']
  • Quality [star rating='3.7']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.4']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.9']

API 720D Final Thoughts

"Like brand new."

The filter stopped working all of a sudden. I plan to cycle this new AC 50 on a separate tank and then xfer it to the 20 gallon. I attempted to clean and lube the impeller, but to no avail. Overall, I like the 350's slim back design, and be able to add up to 4 cartridges. It wasn't producing much surface agitation. It wasn't producing much surface agitation. So, easy is good, both for us and our fish.

Overall Score
4.4

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

4. OXYFUL 55W Non-Submersible UV 27" Light Clarifier Lamp Filter for Aquarium Koi Pond Fish Tank

User Ratings: 64 5

OXYFUL First Impressions

"This is not."

I had a lot of particles in the water. I've looked at so many filters and reviews. I sent a request for replacement and one came the next day. My fish are definitely happier and my water is crystal clear. Also price was very reasonable and shipping was fast. Months later, this filter is still working great on my 29 gal set up. I can take apart a car engine and put it back together.

  • OXYFUL 55W Non-Submersible UV 27" Light Clarifier Lamp Filter for Aquarium Koi Pond Fish Tank
  • STABILIZE YOUR ECOSYSTEM - Removes the toughest grime in your Saltwater Reef Tank, Freshwater Aquarium, or Pond. Simple to achieve crystal clear water by keeping Nitrate levels down
  • PROTECT YOUR FISH - The High-performance UV bulb ensures professional power to keep your ecosystem clean without additional use of chemicals. Perfect for saltwater corals and invertebrates
  • MAX FLOW RATE - 2,113 GPH 55W UV bulb. Perfect for tank or pond sizes up to 17,171 gallons (65,000 liters) of water
  • LONG LASTING UV BULB - Life of UV bulb effective up to 1 year. UV bulb encased in a hard plastic housing where Water is not exposed to any copper
  • SPECIFICATIONS - 55w power consumption 55w UV bulb 27"L x 6.5"W x 4"H. 17 ft power cable. Inlet/Outlet diameters: 1" to 1-1/4" and 1-1/2" to 2" tube
  • Manufacture: Oxyful
  • Item Weight: 8.28 pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The OXYFUL
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.1']
  • Quality [star rating='4.2']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.8']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.8']

OXYFUL Final Thoughts

"Water crystal clear."

The bacteria eats the nitrates in the water to help keep it clean. I will never buy any other HOB no matter what deal they might be offering. Months later, this filter is still working great on my 29 gal set up. I put it together, reading instructions of course. I used to work as a marine biologist for a major state aquarium. I had originally got one for my 75 Gallon tank housing an Oscar. They were great to deal with and the new filter is working great!

Overall Score
4.4

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

5. 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)

6. SunSun HW703B 370GPH Pro Canister Fish Tank Filter Kit with 9-watt UV Sterilizer

User Ratings: 38 13

SUN HW-703B PRO First Impressions

"SAME THING!"

Firstly, I'd recommend taking the motor apart and putting it back together. I use Marinelands refillable cartridge for extra carbon on the extra slots. I sent a request for replacement and one came the next day. I want to answer some of the complaints I've read. Never ever ever use it past a year. , that's what makes this so funny. The instructions are a bit to much for me.

  • SunSun HW703B 370GPH Pro Canister Fish Tank Filter Kit with 9-watt UV Sterilizer
  • 4-stage aquarium canister filters at a great hobby-friendly value, 370GPH
  • Integrated 9W UV sterilization to eradicate unwanted algae and harmful disease causing pathogens
  • Provides quiet, efficient filtration for fresh and saltwater aquariums
  • 3 Large Media Baskets for All Your Media Need, PRO Media kits included
  • Dimension: 11" L X 11" W X 16" H, US plug 110-120v
  • Manufacture: SUNSUN
  • Editor's Impressions Of The SUN HW-703B PRO
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.5']
  • Quality [star rating='4.5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='2.7']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.7']

SUN HW-703B PRO Final Thoughts

"Yeah, no no no!"

They can be very noisy at the impeller, which sometimes quiets in time, but may not. I will never buy any other HOB no matter what deal they might be offering. The filter arrived within 2 days and was the exact same as Petsmart's. This filter comes with a sponge, activated carbon, and bio material in a mesh bag. The first night I had the pump going it started making a screeching sound. This lives up to the praise that people give it. Early on it seems to be working as advertised.

Overall Score
3.7

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

7. Odyssea CFS 130 Hang on Aquarium Canister Filter External

User Ratings: 50 16

Odyssea First Impressions

"Water crystal clear."

Really happy with the money I was able to save. Marineland bio pumps have been around forever. It wasn't producing much surface agitation. That water got so dirty we had to keep changing it every 2 or 3 days. Lightly clean the silver roller pins on the ends. I attempted to clean and lube the impeller, but to no avail. I checked and cleaned it and still just as loud.

  • Odyssea CFS 130 Hang on Aquarium Canister Filter External
  • Dimensions (Body)- 6.00" x 5.00" x 11.00"
  • Flow Rate: 120 GPH
  • Suitable for 30-40 gallon setups, Works with both freshwater and marine
  • Includes all media: filter pad, sponge
  • Manufacture: Odyssea
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Odyssea
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='2.8']
  • Quality [star rating='4.2']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.5']

Odyssea Final Thoughts

"A little goes a long way."

, that's what makes this so funny. It was perfectly quiet without any extra effort on my part. I ordered 4 of these, for different tanks of course. You do have to unplug it for those two jobs. Of course the sound all depends on how much water is in the aquarium. My tank was a mess when I got this pump. The instructions are a bit to much for me.

Overall Score
3.8

[star rating="3.8"]
(124 Points)

8. Flexzion Aquarium Internal Filter Submersible 3-in-1 Multi-Function Mini Pump for Fish Tank with Adj...

User Ratings: 48 14

Flexzion First Impressions

"I should loosen it up."

I'm a mechanical engineer and understand design. I AM IMPRESSED THAT IT WORKS AS IT ACTUALLY SHOULD! In the afternoon the noises started again. One thing I think is worth mentioning is the need to prime the filter. Lift the sticking wheel outuse a Q-tip to clean the slots where the wheel rests. Lightly clean the silver roller pins on the ends. I'm currently in the process of receiving another replacement on that model.

  • Flexzion Aquarium Internal Filter Submersible 3-in-1 Multi-Function Mini Pump for Fish Tank with Adjustable Flow Rate + Spray Bar + Pipe
  • Fits tank size up to 20 gallon
  • Compact power filter with adjustable flow rate
  • Integrated spray bar creates an even flow of water
  • Direct flow diffuser for greater surface agitation
  • Suitable for both freshwater, saltwater and pond use
  • Manufacture: Flexzion
  • Product Dimensions: 8 x 4 x 3 inches; 9.17 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Flexzion
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.6']
  • Quality [star rating='4.6']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.3']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.3']

Flexzion Final Thoughts

"It was an Awesome filter!"

I used to have a 37 gallon eclipse aquarium. I have always used Marineland filters and been happy with them and their quality. Lightly clean the silver roller pins on the ends. My old pump was not working very well so I had to make a major clean up. I want to answer some of the complaints I've read. The Marineland penguin 350 is a great filter. It sounds like a Big Air pump buzzing.

Overall Score
3.8

[star rating="3.8"]
(168 Points)

9. Aqueon QuietFlow LED PRO Aquarium Power Filter 30

User Ratings: 70 5

Aqueon 100106082 First Impressions

"Great price."

Therefore, you wouldnt have 2 filters running. I've been researching so many things on how to take care of them. A canister or in tank filter is ten times more work and messy. They were great to deal with and the new filter is working great! I still have my original wheels on the year old 350 with no issues whatsoever. I put it together, reading instructions of course. SO, I sat down and read EVERY little thing in rhe instructions.

  • Aqueon QuietFlow LED PRO Aquarium Power Filter 30
  • Provides mechanical, chemical, biological filtration plus additional assistance with the Aqueon specialty filter pads
  • Self-priming – starts up automatically after cleaning or power interruptions.
  • Certified flow rates that assure proper water circulation for improved fish health
  • LED indicator light flashes when it’s time to replace clogged cartridges by monitoring actual water levels.
  • Internal pump design helps dampen noise and eliminate leaks
  • Uses large Aqueon replacement cartridges
  • NOTE: You will receive the entire filter
  • Manufacture: Central Garden & Pet
  • Item Weight: 1.95 pounds
  • Product Dimensions: 8.4 x 7.9 x 4.6 inches
  • Batteries: 4 AAA batteries required. (included)
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Aqueon 100106082
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.6']
  • Quality [star rating='4.8']
  • Value For Money [star rating='5']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.7']

Aqueon 100106082 Final Thoughts

"Expensive."

BUT after some YouTube research I was able to fix the noise issue. Months later, this filter is still working great on my 29 gal set up. Overall I would recommend this item. I have always used Marineland filters and been happy with them and their quality. This filter really does a good job. Now I'm having the same issue with the Aqua Clear 50. First they are simple and designed to pump and filter aquarium water.

Overall Score
4.4

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

10. Penn Plax (3 Pack) Cascade Power Aquarium Filters Bio-Sponge

User Ratings: 72 9

Penn-Plax First Impressions

"A THUMBS UP."

Also price was very reasonable and shipping was fast. Really happy with the money I was able to save. Works like a dream and can't even hear it! Lightly clean the silver roller pins on the ends. I will never buy any other HOB no matter what deal they might be offering. Fill up the media slot with water until it's full. The Marineland penguin 350 is a great filter.

  • Penn Plax (3 Pack) Cascade Power Aquarium Filters Bio-Sponge
  • (3 Pack) Penn Plax Cascade Power Aquarium Filters Bio-Sponge
  • Replacement Bio Sponge
  • Cascade Hang On 150/200 power filters
  • Sponge is ideal for growing beneficial bacteria
  • Manufacture: Penn-Plax
  • Product Dimensions: 6 x 3 x 4 inches; 2.43 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Penn-Plax
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.7']
  • Quality [star rating='5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.5']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.4']

Penn-Plax Final Thoughts

"This is the one."

I have contacted customer service to see if I can get a replacement unit. You can't really tell though, and the filter is working great. I've been researching so many things on how to take care of them. My tank was a mess when I got this pump. The filter arrived within 2 days and was the exact same as Petsmart's. Once I found that, the world was right again. Also price was very reasonable and shipping was fast.

Overall Score
4.3

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

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