Editor's Choice - Our Favorite AQUATICLIFE Aquarium Filters

1. AQUATICLIFE 115 Mini Internal Protein Skimmer/Filter for Saltwater Aquariums, 30 Gallon, Perfect for...

User Ratings: 50 15

AQUATICLIFE 510114 First Impressions

"Great price."

As for performance, I couldn't ask for a better filter. I returned the Aqua Clear 70 and promptly received a replacement. Lightly clean the silver roller pins on the ends. I've think I've had had six of them. I also like the fact that it is relatively low profile and discreet looking. Typically just below the flat part of the outlets. I can hear it 3 rooms away grinding away.

  • AQUATICLIFE 115 Mini Internal Protein Skimmer/Filter for Saltwater Aquariums, 30 Gallon, Perfect for Small, Nano Tanks
  • Compact size makes this skimmer ideal for mini-reef aquariums up to 30 gallons
  • Allows for placement inside the aquarium or in the filtration compartment with ultra-quiet operation
  • Proven needle-wheel impeller design increases the air-to-water contact
  • Quick-lock design makes it easy to open housing for cleaning, and the built-in channel conceals the grounded power cord
  • Includes an adjustable bracket that fits standard aquarium frames and suction cups for optional mounting inside the aquarium
  • Compact size makes this skimmer ideal for mini-reef aquariums
  • Placement inside aquarium provides quiet operation
  • Proven needle-wheel impeller increases air-to-water contact
  • Manufacture: Aquatic Life LLC
  • Product Dimensions: 3.25 x 3.5 x 10.63 inches; 1.55 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The AQUATICLIFE 510114
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.3']
  • Quality [star rating='3.6']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.6']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.8']

AQUATICLIFE 510114 Final Thoughts

"I only used one."

This filter really does a good job. Not sure what I'll do with the more complex design. My baby turtle even loves it so much he won't let go. I was new to the hobby and didn't realize that Tetras were inferior filters. I also don't like how short the intake tube is. I also like the fact that it is relatively low profile and discreet looking. It started out silent for about 30 mins and then it got super loud.

Overall Score
3.8

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

2. JBJ 4-Stage Reaction Canister Filter with UV Sterilizer for Aquarium

User Ratings: 49 11

JBJ EFU-45 First Impressions

"I bought an FX6 in 2013."

I AM IMPRESSED THAT IT WORKS AS IT ACTUALLY SHOULD! Overall, I like the 350's slim back design, and be able to add up to 4 cartridges. Replace activated carbon every 6-8 months ish. Marineland bio pumps have been around forever. The Aqua Clear is on the left and the Aqueon is on the right. You can't really tell though, and the filter is working great. I returned the Aqua Clear 70 and promptly received a replacement.

  • JBJ 4-Stage Reaction Canister Filter with UV Sterilizer for Aquarium
  • Aquarium canister filter
  • UV sterilizer
  • Up to 175 gallon
  • Item Package Weight: 20.5
  • Included components: Aquarium Media
  • Manufacture: Transworld Aquatic
  • Product Dimensions: 20 x 11.5 x 14 inches; 20.5 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The JBJ EFU-45
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.1']
  • Quality [star rating='4.4']
  • Value For Money [star rating='2.7']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.3']

JBJ EFU-45 Final Thoughts

"Best to you all!"

I contacted Marineland about my issue and they promptly sent me a new one right away! Also the maker should review the pump design. The ability to regulate the flow solves the loud waterfall problem. I had originally got one for my 75 Gallon tank housing an Oscar. You CAN rinse the old ones in an emergency. I've looked at so many filters and reviews. The filter arrived within 2 days and was the exact same as Petsmart's.

Overall Score
3.7

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

3. SUNSUN HW-303B Canister Filter with 9-watt UV Sterilizer

User Ratings: 68 9

SunSun HW-303B First Impressions

"This thing is a beast."

The bacteria eats the nitrates in the water to help keep it clean. I had to lower the surface by 3 inches to get sufficient agitation. Lift the sticking wheel outuse a Q-tip to clean the slots where the wheel rests. 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. I wasn't able to fill my tank fully because there was little to no surface agitation. This is a good choice if you're tired of cleaning your turtle tank all the time.

  • SUNSUN HW-303B Canister Filter with 9-watt UV Sterilizer
  • 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
  • Built in 9 Watt UV sterilizer to help kill algae spores and bacteria, promoting crystal clear water
  • 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: Monster Pets
  • Product Dimensions: 11 x 11 x 16 inches; 10 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The SunSun HW-303B
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.5']
  • Quality [star rating='4.8']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.5']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.5']

SunSun HW-303B Final Thoughts

"I was to tire to fix it."

I returned the Aqua Clear 70 and promptly received a replacement. The bacteria eats the nitrates in the water to help keep it clean. Therefore, you wouldnt have 2 filters running. Following morning it was running quietly. All in all, I highly recommend this filter and I'm a extremely happy customer! I'm currently in the process of receiving another replacement on that model. I have always used Marineland filters and been happy with them and their quality.

Overall Score
4.3

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

4. Saim Aquarium Mini Filter Activated Carbon Fish Tank Pneumatic Filter with 6.56 Feet Airline Tubing ...

User Ratings: 58

Saim B0000000123 First Impressions

"No issues."

I thought that U had put it together wrong so I took it all apart and started over. This new AQ50 filter has loose bio-media, i. I had to lower the surface by 3 inches to get sufficient agitation. , that's what makes this so funny. I AM IMPRESSED THAT IT WORKS AS IT ACTUALLY SHOULD! It doesn't rise up hugely above the tank like a lot of HOB filters. They were great to deal with and the new filter is working great!

  • Saim Aquarium Mini Filter Activated Carbon Fish Tank Pneumatic Filter with 6.56 Feet Airline Tubing 1 Pcs
  • Triple filtration system: Cotton filters, quartz stand and high-performance activated carbon.
  • Suitable for small fish tank and aquarium, and needs to be used with air pump (Pump not included)
  • Mini filter can improve water oxygen level, create a healthy environment for your fish to grow.
  • Fix design of suckers, easy to install, convenient and practical. it can replace the filter material, keep the water clean.
  • Package Include: 1x filter, 1x2 meter airline tubing (6.56feet)
  • Manufacture: Saim
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Saim B0000000123
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.8']
  • Quality [star rating='5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.5']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.6']

Saim B0000000123 Final Thoughts

"If anyone knows turtles."

, that's what makes this so funny. I bought a top fin 55 gallon aquarium on sale. I'm a mechanical engineer and understand design. It was perfectly quiet without any extra effort on my part. I can hear it 3 rooms away grinding away. I recently upgraded from a 10 gallon aquarium to a 29 gallon. I thought that U had put it together wrong so I took it all apart and started over.

Overall Score
4.6

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

5. LiquaGen - Dual 6 Stage Under Sink Reverse Osmosis Drinking & Aquarium Deionization (RO/DI) Water Fi...

User Ratings: 69 12

LiquaGen LG-DP-US First Impressions

"- Plug it into power."

The first night I had the pump going it started making a screeching sound. Of course the sound all depends on how much water is in the aquarium. I've think I've had had six of them. I'm currently in the process of receiving another replacement on that model. I checked and cleaned it and still just as loud. I plan to cycle this new AC 50 on a separate tank and then xfer it to the 20 gallon. The instructions are a bit to much for me.

  • LiquaGen - Dual 6 Stage Under Sink Reverse Osmosis Drinking & Aquarium Deionization (RO/DI) Water Filter System (Universal pH Alkaline 100 GPD)
  • LiquaGen's dual series includes all the key features necessary to start making ultra pure 0 TDS RO/DI water for your saltwater tank as well as supply crisp, bottled quality drinking water straight from your faucet!
  • Helps restore minerals lost in the RO process. Improves the qualities of clean water by adding necessary minerals for proper human development and health minerals, such as Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Potassium and others readily found in many natural mineral waters.
  • Manual Flush Valve makes this system superior to any other RO/DI system in the market by increasing the life of the unit, reducing possible leaks, and saves you valuable time when flushing the system every few months
  • 3.2 gallon pressurized water tank with 2.8 gallon storage capacity + elegant designer faucet
  • Remove up to 99% of contaminants including arsenic, chlorine, lead, fluoride, heavy metals, bacteria, virus and 1000+ contaminants
  • Manufacture: LiquaGen Water Technology
  • Part Number: LG-DP-US
  • Product Dimensions: 16 x 16 x 16 inches
  • Style: Universal pH Alkaline 100 GPD
  • Batteries Included?: No
  • Batteries Required?: No
  • Editor's Impressions Of The LiquaGen LG-DP-US
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.3']
  • Quality [star rating='4.6']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.2']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.6']

LiquaGen LG-DP-US Final Thoughts

"Since then no problems."

A canister or in tank filter is ten times more work and messy. Fill up the media slot with water until it's full. Not sure what I'll do with the more complex design. Following morning it was running quietly. I thought that U had put it together wrong so I took it all apart and started over. Overall I would recommend this item. Once I found that, the world was right again.

Overall Score
4.3

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

6. Aquapapa 4X Dual Bio Sponge Filter for Betta Fry Aquarium Fish Tank Up to 30 Gallon (Ship from CA US...

User Ratings: 81

Aquapapa First Impressions

"Like brand new."

I'm currently in the process of receiving another replacement on that model. I had a lot of particles in the water. Therefore, you wouldnt have 2 filters running. Clean the foam insert apparently it pulled a lot of dirt and needs cleaned. I put it together, reading instructions of course. The filter arrived within 2 days and was the exact same as Petsmart's. MAKE SURE YOU PUT WATER IN THE BACK OF THE FILTER!

  • Aquapapa 4X Dual Bio Sponge Filter for Betta Fry Aquarium Fish Tank Up to 30 Gallon (Ship from CA USA)
  • Provide both mechanical and biological filtration.
  • Simply install an airline into the unit and provide both aeration and filtration for your fish. Aerobic bacteria colonize the sponge providing a bacterial substance to facilitate the nitrogen cycle.
  • The sponge traps larger waste particles mechanically cleaning the water without trapping baby fish.
  • Product dimensions: 5.0”L x 1.8”W x 5.5”H; sponge dimensions: 1.8”D x 3.0”H. They are useful for as breeding filter or as secondary filter. Or they can be used as pre-filtration unit by fitting to an external or a top filter.
  • Max tank size up to 30 gallon ea. Package includes: 4 of Sponge filters.
  • Manufacture: Aquanemo Global
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Aquapapa
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.9']
  • Quality [star rating='3.8']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.1']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.2']

Aquapapa Final Thoughts

"Not ideal but it works."

I had to cut the hood to make it work. Oscars are very messy fish, especially during feeding. I eyedball everything and put it together with a look back at instructions. You CAN rinse the old ones in an emergency. Get it and take heed to what I wrote. Therefore, you wouldnt have 2 filters running. Marineland bio pumps have been around forever.

Overall Score
4.7

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

7. SeaChem – Large Aquarium Fish Tank Filter, Tidal 110 Gallon (400 Liters) by Sicce

User Ratings: 69 8

Seachem 67106502 First Impressions

"That also didn't work."

As for performance, I couldn't ask for a better filter. This lives up to the praise that people give it. This is a well designed unit and a lot of bang for the buck. I can take apart a car engine and put it back together. The first night I had the pump going it started making a screeching sound. I was worried about some of the negative reviews. I still have my original wheels on the year old 350 with no issues whatsoever.

  • SeaChem – Large Aquarium Fish Tank Filter, Tidal 110 Gallon (400 Liters) by Sicce
  • Manufacture: Deepwater Aquatics Distribution
  • Product Dimensions: 15 x 6 x 15 inches; 2.2 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Seachem 67106502
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.5']
  • Quality [star rating='3.8']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.2']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.5']

Seachem 67106502 Final Thoughts

"This one does!"

Get it and take heed to what I wrote. I checked and cleaned it and still just as loud. I plan to cycle this new AC 50 on a separate tank and then xfer it to the 20 gallon. I had originally got one for my 75 Gallon tank housing an Oscar. DO NOT CLEAN OR WASH the paper wheel itself. They were great to deal with and the new filter is working great! Get it and take heed to what I wrote.

Overall Score
4.3

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

8. 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)

9. Aquarium Air Filter,Biochemical Sponge Fish Tank Activated Carbon Filter,Underwater Air Driven Oxyge...

User Ratings: 34 17

Fdit First Impressions

"Huge capacity."

A canister or in tank filter is ten times more work and messy. Lightly clean the silver roller pins on the ends. I also like the fact that it is relatively low profile and discreet looking. As for performance, I couldn't ask for a better filter. Therefore, you wouldnt have 2 filters running. Overall, I like the 350's slim back design, and be able to add up to 4 cartridges. The filter stopped working all of a sudden.

  • Aquarium Air Filter,Biochemical Sponge Fish Tank Activated Carbon Filter,Underwater Air Driven Oxygen Releases Aquarium Fish Tank Pond Biochemical Stone Sponge Corner Filter(Grey)
  • HIGH EFFICIENCY BIOCHEMICAL FILTRATION SYSTEM☛ Made from environmental high density sponge filter and high-performance activated carbon as filter material for effective cleaning.The air pump driven carbon filter can improve the water quality of the fish tank, increase the solubility of oxygen in water
  • NO NOISE AND ENERGY SAVING☛ no need to use electricity, the aquarium filter can be driven by the air pump with a single hole.It creates numerous minute bubbles for increased oxygen flow without noise.
  • EASY TO WASH & REUSE☛ Easy to remove and easy to clean, convenient to replace the filter cotton
  • PROPER SIZE FOR INSTALLATION AND SPACE-SAVING☛ Mini size is suitable for small fish tanks, do not take much space.
  • SAFE FOR BETTA, FRY AND OTHER SMALL FISH☛ Betta, fry and other small fish will NEVER get sucked up into the filter. The slow current from this filter is ideal when breeding and spawning.
  • Manufacture: Fdit
  • Item Weight: 4.9 ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Fdit
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.7']
  • Quality [star rating='4.4']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.3']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.1']

Fdit Final Thoughts

"Try it you wont be sorry."

The ability to regulate the flow solves the loud waterfall problem. I thought that U had put it together wrong so I took it all apart and started over. Lift the sticking wheel outuse a Q-tip to clean the slots where the wheel rests. I attempted to clean and lube the impeller, but to no avail. DO NOT CLEAN OR WASH the paper wheel itself. I checked and cleaned it and still just as loud. I own 3 of these and besides my canister they are my favorite filters.

Overall Score
3.5

[star rating="3.5"]
(11 Points)

10. Sicce Whale Canister Filter, for Freshwater and Saltwater Applications, Designed for External use.

User Ratings: 41 30

Sicce First Impressions

"Really like the filter."

I have had no issues with it being to loud. 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. I'm currently in the process of receiving another replacement on that model. The Marineland penguin 350 is a great filter. Also price was very reasonable and shipping was fast. LOW and BEHOLD, LMAO, I missed where you had to put water in the back of the filter.

  • Sicce Whale Canister Filter, for Freshwater and Saltwater Applications, Designed for External use.
  • 3 Year Manufacture Warranty
  • Dimensions (LxWxH) - 7.9" x 7.9" x 16"
  • Unique Self priming system which can be hung directly on the tank. This priming system can be used to prime also other external filters.
  • Quick Disconnect System: the filter body can be disconnected simply by closing the valves on the IN and OUT hoses.
  • Floating filter baskets with for easy removal and replacement of the filter media.
  • Manufacture: Sicce
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Sicce
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.8']
  • Quality [star rating='2.5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.1']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.3']

Sicce Final Thoughts

"Try it you wont be sorry."

DO NOT CLEAN OR WASH the paper wheel itself. The Aqua Clear is on the left and the Aqueon is on the right. This is a well designed unit and a lot of bang for the buck. I decided to go with this filter since I had a positive experience previously. Unlike my old HOB filter, it doesn't sound like a leaky toilet. Of course the sound all depends on how much water is in the aquarium. The bacteria eats the nitrates in the water to help keep it clean.

Overall Score
3.5

[star rating="3.5"]
(4 Points)

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