Editor's Choice - Our Favorite AQUANEAT Aquarium Filters

1. AQUANEAT 4 Pack Double Bio Sponge Filter, for Fry, Betta, Shrimp, Nano, Aquarium Fish Tank

User Ratings: 78 3

AQUANEAT SF-A010x4^^ First Impressions

"Great product."

Worst case is that the motor could burn out. Also price was very reasonable and shipping was fast. I'm a mechanical engineer and understand design. It wasn't producing much surface agitation. Oscars are very messy fish, especially during feeding. Works like a dream and can't even hear it! Following morning it was running quietly.

  • AQUANEAT 4 Pack Double Bio Sponge Filter, for Fry, Betta, Shrimp, Nano, Aquarium Fish Tank
  • Biochemical Filtration:Sponge filter provide both mechanical and biological filtration, also, the air infusion chamber produces minute bubbles which increase the oxygen solubility
  • Easy to Set up & Clean: Simply install an airline into the unit and turn on the air pump; simply rinse and squeeze sponge in tank water
  • Recommend Tank Size: Up to 55 gallon, excellent for small size fish like dwarf cichlid, guppy, killifish etc ; or for hatcheries, maternity tanks, and fry tanks, as the filter produces minimal current and has almost no way to suck the fish through the filter
  • Dimension: 6.5”L x 2.4”W x 9.5”H
  • Includes: sponge filter 4 pcs
  • Manufacture: AQUANEAT
  • Editor's Impressions Of The AQUANEAT SF-A010x4^^
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='5']
  • Quality [star rating='4.8']
  • Value For Money [star rating='5']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.5']

AQUANEAT SF-A010x4^^ Final Thoughts

"Came on time."

They are simply the best design for nitrifying bacteria to grow on. It started out silent for about 30 mins and then it got super loud. 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's easy to clean and we all know about easy. I eyedball everything and put it together with a look back at instructions. I had originally got one for my 75 Gallon tank housing an Oscar.

Overall Score
4.6

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

Peoples Choice - Other Highly Rated AQUANEAT Aquarium Filters

2. AQUANEAT Double Bio Sponge Filter, for Fry, Betta, Shrimp, Nano Aquarium Fish Tank with Airline Tubi...

User Ratings: 78 3

AQUANEAT First Impressions

"Since then no problems."

This is not my first experience with a marineland filter. That water got so dirty we had to keep changing it every 2 or 3 days. Oscars are very messy fish, especially during feeding. Also price was very reasonable and shipping was fast. I own 3 of these and besides my canister they are my favorite filters. DO NOT CLEAN OR WASH the paper wheel itself. Early on it seems to be working as advertised.

  • AQUANEAT Double Bio Sponge Filter, for Fry, Betta, Shrimp, Nano Aquarium Fish Tank with Airline Tubing, Air Pump Valves, Suction Cups
  • Biochemical Filtration:Sponge filter provide both mechanical and biological filtration, also, the air infusion chamber produces minute bubbles which increase the oxygen solubility
  • Easy to Set up & Clean: Simply install an airline into the unit and turn on the air pump; simply rinse and squeeze sponge in tank water
  • Recommend Tank Size: Up to 55 gallon, excellent for small size fish like dwarf cichlid, guppy, killifish etc ; or for hatcheries, maternity tanks, and fry tanks, as the filter produces minimal current and has almost no way to suck the fish through the filter
  • Dimension: 6.5”L x 2.4”W x 9.5”H
  • Includes: 1 sponge filter, 1 set of accessories: 4 suction cups, 4ft airline tubing,1 control valve, 1 tee, 1 non-return check valve
  • Manufacture: AQUANEAT
  • Editor's Impressions Of The AQUANEAT
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.6']
  • Quality [star rating='4.5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.3']
  • Affordability [star rating='5']

AQUANEAT Final Thoughts

"It's heavy and awkward."

You do have to unplug it for those two jobs. You can't really tell though, and the filter is working great. Oscars are very messy fish, especially during feeding. I ordered 4 of these, for different tanks of course. I've think I've had had six of them. My tank is nice and clear and my fish are much happier. I used to work as a marine biologist for a major state aquarium.

Overall Score
4.6

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

3. Penn-Plax 610 Cascade Corner Filter

User Ratings: 62 8

Penn-Plax 07194 First Impressions

"A THUMBS UP."

I checked and cleaned it and still just as loud. As for performance, I couldn't ask for a better filter. Now I'm having the same issue with the Aqua Clear 50. You CAN rinse the old ones in an emergency. If that does not work, look into silicone grease so you can lube the impeller. Of course the sound all depends on how much water is in the aquarium. I'd highly recommend not replacing the bio material& sponge, ever.

  • Penn-Plax 610 Cascade Corner Filter
  • Space saving corner design
  • Fully submersible filter quietly delivers 160 gallons per hour of crystal clear water for your fresh or marine aquarium up to 50 gallons in size
  • Spray bar option allows you to distribute water evenly helping aerate your tank
  • Can be placed horizontally and is easily hidden
  • Manufacture: Penn Plax
  • Product Dimensions: 5 x 3 x 12 inches; 2 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Penn-Plax 07194
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.9']
  • Quality [star rating='3.4']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.2']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.7']

Penn-Plax 07194 Final Thoughts

"Seriously."

The current is strong but you can adjust it with the midsection lever. This new AQ50 filter has loose bio-media, i. SO, I sat down and read EVERY little thing in rhe instructions. I used to have a 37 gallon eclipse aquarium. MAKE SURE YOU PUT WATER IN THE BACK OF THE FILTER! The lever on the bottom helps even the filter out. This is a good choice if you're tired of cleaning your turtle tank all the time.

Overall Score
4.2

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

4. AquaTop 211 GPH AF200 Auto-Priming Canister Filter with UV

User Ratings: 50 22

AquaTop AF-200 First Impressions

"Seriously."

Basically, make sure everything that is suppose to spin, does so smoothly. Overall, I'm very happy with this filter. I can take apart a car engine and put it back together. This is not my first experience with a marineland filter. SO I decided to order this for my 29 gallon tank. There is a sound from the water shooting into the tank! The ability to regulate the flow solves the loud waterfall problem.

  • AquaTop 211 GPH AF200 Auto-Priming Canister Filter with UV
  • Advanced Multi-stage filtration system + UV
  • Suitable for tanks up to 60 Gallons
  • Includes Mechanical, Biological, and Chemical Filtration
  • Manufacture: Aquatop, Inc.
  • Product Dimensions: 13.5 x 8 x 8 inches; 10 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The AquaTop AF-200
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.1']
  • Quality [star rating='2.4']
  • Value For Money [star rating='2.9']
  • Affordability [star rating='2.5']

AquaTop AF-200 Final Thoughts

"Expensive."

Lift the sticking wheel outuse a Q-tip to clean the slots where the wheel rests. As for performance, I couldn't ask for a better filter. You'll want to pull that water from the bottom. I plan to cycle this new AC 50 on a separate tank and then xfer it to the 20 gallon. Lift the sticking wheel outuse a Q-tip to clean the slots where the wheel rests. My baby turtle even loves it so much he won't let go. I'm currently in the process of receiving another replacement on that model.

Overall Score
3.4

[star rating="3.4"]
(9 Points)

5. 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)

6. boxtech Aquarium Hang On Filter - Power Waterfall Suspension Oxygen Pump - Submersible Hanging Activ...

User Ratings: 52 14

boxtech 4346783286 First Impressions

"It's priced awesome!"

I had to cut the hood to make it work. It wasn't producing much surface agitation. Therefore, you wouldnt have 2 filters running. The filter stopped working all of a sudden. Overall I would recommend this item. Oscars are very messy fish, especially during feeding. I have 4 other AquaClear filters and like them.

  • boxtech Aquarium Hang On Filter - Power Waterfall Suspension Oxygen Pump - Submersible Hanging Activated Carbon Biochemical Wall Mounted Fish Tank Filtration Water
  • 3 in 1 Multi-function filter: Aquarium filter has the function for filtration,oxygen aeration and clearing oil-film, a variety functions provide by ultra-thin design filter, perfect for your fish tank.
  • Low noise: Filter motor running will not bring noise, will not affect the life and mood.
  • Adjustable flow valve: The water flow is adjustable, dissolved oxygen for creature growing.Suitable water flow, fit for fish bowl and grass cylinder,so it satisfy your various demand.
  • Hanging on filter with filter plate design:can increased filter strage space,also clean up aquarium fish feces, create a clean environment for your lovely fish.
  • Safe material: The fish tank filter made of ABS plastic,strong, quiet and durable
  • Prevent clogging of the pumping port
  • Removable cleaning
  • Prevent small fish from being sucked away
  • Manufacture: Boxtech
  • Product Dimensions: 4.72 x 4.72 x 3.54 inches; 9.59 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The boxtech 4346783286
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.9']
  • Quality [star rating='3.3']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.2']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.5']

boxtech 4346783286 Final Thoughts

"I bought an FX6 in 2013."

You can't really tell though, and the filter is working great. They can be very noisy at the impeller, which sometimes quiets in time, but may not. I use Marinelands refillable cartridge for extra carbon on the extra slots. I have 4 other AquaClear filters and like them. SO, I sat down and read EVERY little thing in rhe instructions. This lives up to the praise that people give it. They were great to deal with and the new filter is working great!

Overall Score
3.8

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

7. SunSun HW-3000 UV 9W 5-Stage External Canister Filter 793gph, White

User Ratings: 66 10

SunSun HW-3000 First Impressions

"5 minutes."

They are easily found from mom-n-pop pet stores to large chain stores. SO I decided to order this for my 29 gallon tank. The first night I had the pump going it started making a screeching sound. You'll want to pull that water from the bottom. I will never buy any other HOB no matter what deal they might be offering. This filter has is a very simple and efficient design. SO, I sat down and read EVERY little thing in rhe instructions.

  • SunSun HW-3000 UV 9W 5-Stage External Canister Filter 793gph, White
  • LCD Display that allows users to adjust the flow rate of the pump and the duration of the UV light
  • Flow rate: up to 793 Gallons per hour (adjustable)
  • 9W UV sterilizer, perfect for maintaining a clean and clear Aquarium
  • Can be used for any freshwater and Saltwater aquariums.Voltage: 220-240V/50Hz
  • Comes with White Filter pads (Filter media sold separately)
  • Manufacture: SunSun
  • Product Dimensions: 18 x 13 x 16 inches; 18.95 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The SunSun HW-3000
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.2']
  • Quality [star rating='4']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.6']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.5']

SunSun HW-3000 Final Thoughts

"I was to tire to fix it."

I also don't like how short the intake tube is. My fish are definitely happier and my water is crystal clear. It sounds like a Big Air pump buzzing. However, lately I've purchased the Aqua Clear 70 and 50. I put it together, reading instructions of course. I have had no issues with it being to loud. Unlike my old HOB filter, it doesn't sound like a leaky toilet.

Overall Score
4.2

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

8. 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)

9. Penn Plax Cascade 500/350 GPH Aquarium Canister Filter Bio Sponge Replacement

User Ratings: 93

Penn-Plax CCF129 First Impressions

"+Great price."

Unlike my old HOB filter, it doesn't sound like a leaky toilet. I want to answer some of the complaints I've read. I eyedball everything and put it together with a look back at instructions. If that does not work, look into silicone grease so you can lube the impeller. Overall, I like the 350's slim back design, and be able to add up to 4 cartridges. I've looked at so many filters and reviews. They are easily found from mom-n-pop pet stores to large chain stores.

  • Penn Plax Cascade 500/350 GPH Aquarium Canister Filter Bio Sponge Replacement
  • Keep your water clean and clear with the replacement bio sponge for use in the Cascade 500 Model CCF1UL and Cascade Elite canister filter models.
  • The bio sponge filter removes ammonia and nitrites from your aquarium tank keeping your aquarium clean; healthy; and odor free.
  • Filter sponge optimizes the colonization of beneficial aerobic bacteria which prevents the water from becoming cloudy and harming fish.
  • Perfectly cut to fit into the Cascade 500 filter tray without any gaps which could allow pollutants to re-enter the water.
  • Genuine Penn Plax replacement cartridge for Cascade 500 models. When used together; the filter and bio sponge provide maximum protection against water pollutants.
  • Manufacture: Monster Pets
  • Product Dimensions: 7.5 x 1.5 x 5.5 inches; 1.6 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Penn-Plax CCF129
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.9']
  • Quality [star rating='4.9']
  • Value For Money [star rating='5']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.9']

Penn-Plax CCF129 Final Thoughts

"Will UPDATE!"

My old pump was not working very well so I had to make a major clean up. LOW and BEHOLD, LMAO, I missed where you had to put water in the back of the filter. I used a small pair of pliers and carefully got the pebbles out. Overall, I like the 350's slim back design, and be able to add up to 4 cartridges. Basically, make sure everything that is suppose to spin, does so smoothly. They can be very noisy at the impeller, which sometimes quiets in time, but may not. You CAN rinse the old ones in an emergency.

Overall Score
4.9

[star rating="4.9"]
(43 Points)

10. 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)

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