Editor's Choice - Our Favorite biOrb Aquarium Filters

1. BiOrb Service Kit SIX PACK

User Ratings: 75 5

biOrb First Impressions

"Added 3 baby turtles."

Overall, I like the 350's slim back design, and be able to add up to 4 cartridges. I had originally got one for my 75 Gallon tank housing an Oscar. You'll want to pull that water from the bottom. I've looked at so many filters and reviews. Of course the sound all depends on how much water is in the aquarium. I've been researching so many things on how to take care of them. My box came in good condition, parts where in tact and new.

  • BiOrb Service Kit SIX PACK
  • 6 BiOrb Service Kits
  • Suitable for ALL BiOrb, BiUbe, BiOrb FLOW and BiOrb Life aquariums
  • The kit contains everything you will need to service your aquarium, including conditioners to remove harmful chlorine from your tap water
  • The BiOrb Service Kits also contain a cleaning pad
  • The biOrb filter cartridge works like a waste bin, trapping dirt, and once full it should be thrown away and replaced with a new one
  • Manufacture: BiOrb
  • Editor's Impressions Of The biOrb
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='5']
  • Quality [star rating='3.6']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.9']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.4']

biOrb Final Thoughts

"This filter is perfect!"

SO I decided to order this for my 29 gallon tank. I was worried that it might be too much for my aquarium or that it would be loud. Lift the sticking wheel outuse a Q-tip to clean the slots where the wheel rests. Really happy with the money I was able to save. Marineland bio pumps have been around forever. It's easy to clean and we all know about easy. This filter comes with a sponge, activated carbon, and bio material in a mesh bag.

Overall Score
4.5

[star rating="4.5"]
(92 Points)

2. REEF Red Sea SPEC Carbon - Aquarium Filter Media

User Ratings: 83 4

Reef 37420 First Impressions

"Best to you all!"

Worst case is that the motor could burn out. I use Marinelands refillable cartridge for extra carbon on the extra slots. I contacted Marineland about my issue and they promptly sent me a new one right away! There is a sound from the water shooting into the tank! One thing I think is worth mentioning is the need to prime the filter. The instructions are a bit to much for me. It sounds like a Big Air pump buzzing.

  • REEF Red Sea SPEC Carbon - Aquarium Filter Media
  • Rapid removal of organic pollutants
  • High total adsorption capacity
  • Ultra-low phosphate output, ultra-low ash content
  • Suitable for marine & freshwater
  • Filter bag included.
  • Age range description: All Stages
  • Manufacture: Red Sea
  • Product Dimensions: 3 x 3 x 3 inches; 1.5 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Reef 37420
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.7']
  • Quality [star rating='4.5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='5']
  • Affordability [star rating='5']

Reef 37420 Final Thoughts

"Piece of cake!"

I ordered 4 of these, for different tanks of course. Fill up the media slot with water until it's full. I checked and cleaned it and still just as loud. MAKE SURE YOU PUT WATER IN THE BACK OF THE FILTER! I returned the Aqua Clear 70 and promptly received a replacement. My tank was a mess when I got this pump. Overall, I like the 350's slim back design, and be able to add up to 4 cartridges.

Overall Score
4.7

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

3. MarineLand Penguin 200 Power Filter, 200GPH (PF0200B),Black

User Ratings: 72 5

MarineLand PF0200B First Impressions

"AFTER 3 DAYS."

I want to answer some of the complaints I've read. Typically just below the flat part of the outlets. I was worried that it might be too much for my aquarium or that it would be loud. In the afternoon the noises started again. It wasn't producing much surface agitation. Oscars are very messy fish, especially during feeding. Therefore, you wouldnt have 2 filters running.

  • MarineLand Penguin 200 Power Filter, 200GPH (PF0200B),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.
  • Manufacture: Marineland
  • Item Weight: 2.3 pounds
  • Product Dimensions: 9.5 x 6.25 x 8 inches
  • Editor's Impressions Of The MarineLand PF0200B
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.1']
  • Quality [star rating='3.7']
  • Value For Money [star rating='5']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.8']

MarineLand PF0200B Final Thoughts

"I bought an FX6 in 2013."

I had originally got one for my 75 Gallon tank housing an Oscar. I decided to go with this filter since I had a positive experience previously. I have contacted customer service to see if I can get a replacement unit. Once it loses its charge, you'll need to replace it. Overall, I'm very happy with this filter. They are easily found from mom-n-pop pet stores to large chain stores. I have purchased several Aqua Clear filters over the years.

Overall Score
4.4

[star rating="4.4"]
(4754 Points)

4. Bicaquu Automatic Filter for Vacuum Cleaner, Filter for Aquarium, Universal for Aquarium

Bicaquu First Impressions

"Just buy it!"

I've think I've had had six of them. It started out silent for about 30 mins and then it got super loud. All in all, I highly recommend this filter and I'm a extremely happy customer! SO I decided to order this for my 29 gallon tank. It doesn't rise up hugely above the tank like a lot of HOB filters. I stopped the pump and I pulled it apart. They are easily found from mom-n-pop pet stores to large chain stores.

  • Bicaquu Automatic Filter for Vacuum Cleaner, Filter for Aquarium, Universal for Aquarium
  • Easy to use: You just need to connect to the discharging air pipe, put in water and open the air pump to clean the fish tank dirt. (Air pump is not included).
  • Made from premium plastic material, which is safe, solid and durable to use.
  • Built in replaceable filter tank and special strong bioactive beads, It can achieve better the physical filtration effect and provide space for the nitrifying bacteria to attach.
  • Multifunctional: oxygen aeration, enhanced the filtering effect of organism and improve the stability of water quality of aquarium
  • Humanized cover design, prevent from leakage meanwhile absorb the dirty objects.
  • Manufacture: Bicaquu
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Bicaquu
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.7']
  • Quality [star rating='4.8']
  • Value For Money [star rating='5']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.4']

Bicaquu Final Thoughts

"Like brand new."

The ability to regulate the flow solves the loud waterfall problem. I was also having oxygen issues because of this. I'd highly recommend not replacing the bio material& sponge, ever. The only thing you hear is the water and even that is a soothing sound. , that's what makes this so funny. My old pump was not working very well so I had to make a major clean up. You CAN rinse the old ones in an emergency.

Overall Score
5.0

[star rating="5"]
(1 Points)

5. 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)

6. 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)

7. Aquarium Fish Tank External Canister Filter with Pump Table Mute Filters Bucket HW-602

User Ratings: 42 22

Fdit First Impressions

"This is the one."

This is a well designed unit and a lot of bang for the buck. Works like a dream and can't even hear it! I've been researching so many things on how to take care of them. Works like a dream and can't even hear it! BUT after some YouTube research I was able to fix the noise issue. I DONT KNOW WHY MANY THINK THIS IS A NOISY FILTER. A canister or in tank filter is ten times more work and messy.

  • Aquarium Fish Tank External Canister Filter with Pump Table Mute Filters Bucket HW-602
  • ★HIGH QUALITY:Made of high quality plastic material, non-toxic and harmless, wear resistant and durable.
  • ★MULTIPLE FUNCTIONS:It can filter impurities in fish tanks, remove the excreta and keep water clean. Provide adequate oxygen, no hazardous substances, no pollution, suitable for the growth of fish.
  • ★SAVE ENERGY:High efficiency, energy-saving, large flow, low noise, strong seal(no leaks).
  • ★VALVE DESIGN:Inlet switch valve design, can adjust the flow. Ideal for small and medium sized fish tank. HW-602B fit for less then 0.4m fish tank, HW-603B fit for less then 0.6m fish tank
  • ★EASY TO INSTALL:Suitable for fresh water, seawater aquarium and seaweed tank use,easy to install.
  • 1 * External Canister Filter(HW-602:NOT INCLUDE the pump and accessory)
  • 3 * Connectors
  • 2 * Pipes
  • Manufacture: Fdit
  • Product Dimensions: 6.69 x 6.69 x 11.81 inches; 1.06 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Fdit
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.5']
  • Quality [star rating='2.7']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.2']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.9']

Fdit Final Thoughts

"With no parts left over!"

I want to answer some of the complaints I've read. My tank was a mess when I got this pump. I was worried about some of the negative reviews. I recently upgraded from a 10 gallon aquarium to a 29 gallon. It was perfectly quiet without any extra effort on my part. I plan to cycle this new AC 50 on a separate tank and then xfer it to the 20 gallon. Also the maker should review the pump design.

Overall Score
3.5

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

8. Jebo 838 External Canister Filter-(for Aquariums up to 150 Gallons)

User Ratings: 23

JEBO 838 First Impressions

"-Not self-priming."

What I don't like is how much smaller it is than the Aqueon. Replace activated carbon every 6-8 months ish. I stopped the pump and I pulled it apart. I want to answer some of the complaints I've read. My tank was a mess when I got this pump. Also price was very reasonable and shipping was fast. The lever on the bottom helps even the filter out.

  • Jebo 838 External Canister Filter-(for Aquariums up to 150 Gallons)
  • 4 stage filtration
  • Pump Output 315 G/H (1,200 LPH)
  • For Aquariums up to 150 Gallons
  • Includes all hoses and everything necessary to get started
  • Adjustable-height inlet tube, fits even the deepest aquariums
  • Manufacture: Jebo
  • Editor's Impressions Of The JEBO 838
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4']
  • Quality [star rating='3.4']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.2']
  • Affordability [star rating='2.8']

JEBO 838 Final Thoughts

"It just starts right up."

The filter arrived within 2 days and was the exact same as Petsmart's. The Marineland penguin 350 is a great filter. Basically, make sure everything that is suppose to spin, does so smoothly. I will never buy any other HOB no matter what deal they might be offering. I was using a Tetra in-tank filter previously. So, easy is good, both for us and our fish. There is a sound from the water shooting into the tank!

Overall Score
3.8

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

9. Aquarium Turtle Filter Waterfall Flow Water Clean Pump Bio-Filtration for Reptiles Tank Low Level Wa...

User Ratings: 55 13

JackSuper First Impressions

"MINE IS VERY QUIET."

I want to answer some of the complaints I've read. In the afternoon the noises started again. I bought a top fin 55 gallon aquarium on sale. I've think I've had had six of them. You do have to unplug it for those two jobs. The Marineland penguin 350 is a great filter. I have contacted customer service to see if I can get a replacement unit.

  • Aquarium Turtle Filter Waterfall Flow Water Clean Pump Bio-Filtration for Reptiles Tank Low Level Waterfall Filter for Small Fish Tank Turtle Tank Shrimp Tank Amphibian Frog Crab
  • We have the 90 days replacement and the refund service. All the emails will be replied within 24 hours. We have lifetime technique support, please feel free to contact us for any quality problem. We will do our best to help you.
  • Perfect Aquarium filter for aquatic turtle tanks, Reptiles, Amphibians, Frog, Cichlids, Newt or Fish tank in any aquarium up to 40 gallons
  • Easy to install,Water filter pump can be hung on the aquarium or fixed with sucker. Low water level capability(Lowest water level 1.6inch/4cm)
  • Water circulation and cleaning:this turtle filter helps water cycling,the Activated carbon cartridges and bio ball help clean water,absorbs odors and discoloration,provide a healthy water for your aquarium
  • High performance, the motor set under the water,more quiet than external filter,you can creat a waterfall with rock inside the fish tank
  • Filter waste and stop the waste go into power head
  • Protect your filter power head and prevent small fish or animal suck in the filter.
  • absorbs odors and discoloration
  • Manufacture: JackSupermall
  • Product Dimensions: 8.27 x 3.66 x 2.76 inches; 14.39 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The JackSuper
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.9']
  • Quality [star rating='3.5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.2']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.1']

JackSuper Final Thoughts

"This is the one."

I had a lot of particles in the water. They are easily found from mom-n-pop pet stores to large chain stores. Get it and take heed to what I wrote. Overall, I like the 350's slim back design, and be able to add up to 4 cartridges. Firstly, I'd recommend taking the motor apart and putting it back together. I AM IMPRESSED THAT IT WORKS AS IT ACTUALLY SHOULD! It's easy to clean and we all know about easy.

Overall Score
3.9

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

10. 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']

ViaAqua Final Thoughts

"A very obvious waterfall."

Fill it up with water before you plug it in. It's only rated at 25 gph less, but holds considerably less media. Overall, I'm very happy with this filter. This lives up to the praise that people give it. I sent a request for replacement and one came the next day. It started out silent for about 30 mins and then it got super loud. I want to answer some of the complaints I've read.

Overall Score
4.0

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

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