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. Fluval External Filter

User Ratings: 74 9

Fluval A217 First Impressions

"My fault not theirs."

There is a sound from the water shooting into the tank! I put it together, reading instructions of course. It was perfectly quiet without any extra effort on my part. Of course the sound all depends on how much water is in the aquarium. I can hear it 3 rooms away grinding away. Also price was very reasonable and shipping was fast. I plan to cycle this new AC 50 on a separate tank and then xfer it to the 20 gallon.

  • Fluval External Filter
  • Multi stage filtration for healthy fresh & saltwater aquariums
  • Suitable for aquariums up to 100 gallons. Flow Rate: 1450 LPH (383 US GPH)
  • Sound dampening impeller design for a quieter operation. The Fluval 406 Canister Filter has a unique square shaped canister design that holds 35 to 50 percent more water than round canister filters of similar size allowing better water flow through a complex cleansing path that maximizes contact with the filtration media
  • Equipped with a clog proof intake strainer and a dual layer foam screen. To prevent water from dripping onto the receptacle or plug,a “drip loop” should be arranged by the user in the cord connecting appliance to a receptacle
  • Built with a patented Aqua stop Valve, multiple filtration baskets, and rim connector assemblies; 3 year warranty.Media Capacity: 8.5 L
  • Manufacture: Fluval
  • Product Dimensions: 7.6 x 14.5 x 17.8 inches; 10 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Fluval A217
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4']
  • Quality [star rating='3.7']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.6']

Fluval A217 Final Thoughts

"SAME THING!"

In the afternoon the noises started again. A canister or in tank filter is ten times more work and messy. I was worried about some of the negative reviews. I've looked at so many filters and reviews. The Marineland penguin 350 is a great filter. SO I decided to order this for my 29 gallon tank. I attempted to clean and lube the impeller, but to no avail.

Overall Score
4.4

[star rating="4.4"]
(2951 Points)

3. Powkoo Double Sponge Filter Aquarium Filter Sponge Shrimp Betta Breeding Fry Fish Tank Filter (Filte...

User Ratings: 76 4

Powkoo First Impressions

"No big deal."

I have always used Marineland filters and been happy with them and their quality. You do have to unplug it for those two jobs. I checked and cleaned it and still just as loud. The filter stopped working all of a sudden. They are easily found from mom-n-pop pet stores to large chain stores. Firstly, I'd recommend taking the motor apart and putting it back together. I'm a mechanical engineer and understand design.

  • Powkoo Double Sponge Filter Aquarium Filter Sponge Shrimp Betta Breeding Fry Fish Tank Filter (Filter)
  • Air driven sponge filter, it provides both mechanical and biological filtration, works great without noise, suitable for freshwater and saltwater【Fit fish tank size: 10 to 40 gallon】
  • Double 9-layer ribbed shape sponges, traps floating debris fine particles, high density porous 80ppi sponges, means more surface area for beneficial bacterial to colonize and faster cycling, it quickly established a bio filter and provides extra oxygen, keep your fish tank crystal clear and clean
  • Easy setup: using an air hose, connect one end to you air pump and the other end to this filter, and equipped with a check valve on air hose, to prevent water backflow and air pump damage due to power outage, provides aeration and filtration in one solution, great way to clean and oxygenate your tanks
  • Easy to clean: just take out the sponges, simply rinse and squeeze them in used tank water, recommend to clean the sponges once one month. NOTES: recommend to replace the sponges every 5 to 6 months maximum
  • It has two media chambers(media not included), you can add any filter media to enhance water quality, excellent for shrimp tank, betta tank, breeding tank, planted aquarium, turtle tank, goldfish, fry, guppies, snails, crayfish, axolotls
  • Manufacture: Powkoo
  • Product Dimensions: 5.9 x 2 x 7.7 inches; 5.61 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Powkoo
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.8']
  • Quality [star rating='4.2']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.6']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.7']

Powkoo Final Thoughts

"This thing is super loud!"

Fill up the media slot with water until it's full. I had to cut the hood to make it work. Now I'm having the same issue with the Aqua Clear 50. I attempted to clean and lube the impeller, but to no avail. They can be very noisy at the impeller, which sometimes quiets in time, but may not. I had to lower the surface by 3 inches to get sufficient agitation. My tank is nice and clear and my fish are much happier.

Overall Score
4.6

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

4. 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']

AA Aquarium AAUV9W Final Thoughts

"Huge capacity."

With the 350's inexpensive price point, you can’t go wrong with this powerful filter. I can take apart a car engine and put it back together. The instructions are a bit to much for me. This filter really does a good job. I still have my original wheels on the year old 350 with no issues whatsoever. This is a well designed unit and a lot of bang for the buck. One thing I think is worth mentioning is the need to prime the filter.

Overall Score
4.4

[star rating="4.4"]
(2330 Points)

5. LiquaGen - Heavy Duty & High Capacity 7-Stage Aquarium Reef and Deionization Reverse Osmosis Water F...

User Ratings: 81 10

LiquaGen LG 3 OTOP First Impressions

"Really like the filter."

I still have my original wheels on the year old 350 with no issues whatsoever. Not sure what I'll do with the more complex design. I was new to the hobby and didn't realize that Tetras were inferior filters. I was new to the hobby and didn't realize that Tetras were inferior filters. I sent a request for replacement and one came the next day. The ability to regulate the flow solves the loud waterfall problem. This filter really does a good job.

  • LiquaGen - Heavy Duty & High Capacity 7-Stage Aquarium Reef and Deionization Reverse Osmosis Water Filter Systems RO/DI | 0 PPM - 150 GPD
  • This product is great for aquariums, laboratory testing, and other applications for pure water. Pre- Assembled system for easy installation. Installation takes approximately 5 minutes!
  • 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.
  • High Rejection Reverse Osmosis (RO) Membrane. Film by GE USA. 2 year manufacturer warranty; Lifetime customer support.
  • Ideal for Reef Tanks, Salt-Water and Fresh-Water Aquariums by the process of deionization ensuring zero ppm water, optimal for fish, coral, and other Marine life & plants.
  • Air-leak tested, leak-free fittings and long lasting filters ensure durability and mitigate chances for damage and breakage. BPA free to supplement a safe environment.
  • Manufacture: LiquaGen Water Technology
  • Editor's Impressions Of The LiquaGen LG 3 OTOP
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.9']
  • Quality [star rating='3.8']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.9']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.3']

LiquaGen LG 3 OTOP Final Thoughts

"Just a tip!"

The bacteria eats the nitrates in the water to help keep it clean. This filter really does a good job. This new AQ50 filter has loose bio-media, i. Oscars are very messy fish, especially during feeding. Typically just below the flat part of the outlets. This is a well designed unit and a lot of bang for the buck. I ordered 4 of these, for different tanks of course.

Overall Score
4.5

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

6. hygger Sponge Filter, Aquarium Filter Double Sponge Replaceable Media with 4 Biochemical Sponges and...

User Ratings: 65 6

hygger First Impressions

"- Plug it into power."

I've looked at so many filters and reviews. Firstly, I'd recommend taking the motor apart and putting it back together. I've looked at so many filters and reviews. DO NOT CLEAN OR WASH the paper wheel itself. I used to work as a marine biologist for a major state aquarium. I was new to the hobby and didn't realize that Tetras were inferior filters. Firstly, I'd recommend taking the motor apart and putting it back together.

  • hygger Sponge Filter, Aquarium Filter Double Sponge Replaceable Media with 4 Biochemical Sponges and 1 Bag of Filtered Ceramic Balls Ultra Quiet Filter Fish Tank (S/M)
  • 【Biochemical Filtration】 With air pump as the power source, combined with mechanical filtration, the principle of biological filtration utilizes multi-level filtration to culture beneficial nitrifying bacteria, and the sponge can absorb fine particles to achieve the effect of purifying water. The water flow is controlled by the airflow, which is small and slow and does not impact the fish.
  • 【Changeable filter material】Two kinds of replaceable filter materials: sponge + filter box. You can easily remove 2 sponges from the filter for cleaning or replacement, with a total of 4 sponges. It also has a media container with a ceramic filter inside to help eliminate harmful substances and provide additional cleaning power. Other filters can be replaced.
  • 【Easy to use】 Use a 4mm air hose to connect one end to the air pump and the other end to this tank filter. The outlet pipe in the sponge filter can be adjusted so that you can change the direction and height of the water flow (not including the pump and air hose, please choose a powerful pump for this filter according to your tank size).
  • 【Upgrade filter】Aquarium filter can increase the amount of water dissolved, ultra-quiet, not easy to block, can be installed with filter material. Multi-layer design of filter cotton, with a large surface area, full filtration without dead ends. The suction cup is strong and secure. The bottom direction is 360 degrees rotatable.
  • 【Suitable Size】 The medium sponge filter is 6.3 inch width and 9 inch to 13 inch height, the sponge inside circle diameter is 0.59 inch, suggest for 15 to 55 gallon fish tank. For larger tank you may need 2 of this filter. Suitable for shrimp tanks, betta fish tanks, breeding ponds, goldfish, juvenile fish or other fish.
  • Manufacture: hygger
  • Editor's Impressions Of The hygger
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.4']
  • Quality [star rating='4.7']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.6']
  • Affordability [star rating='4']

hygger Final Thoughts

"Seriously."

Clean the foam insert apparently it pulled a lot of dirt and needs cleaned. It's only rated at 25 gph less, but holds considerably less media. As for performance, I couldn't ask for a better filter. I checked and cleaned it and still just as loud. Oscars are very messy fish, especially during feeding. Once I found that, the world was right again. Overall, I'm very happy with this filter.

Overall Score
4.3

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

7. 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)

8. UPETTOOLS Aquarium Biochemical Sponge Filter, Ultra Quite Aquarium Air Pump Single Head Bio Sponge F...

User Ratings: 70 5

UPETTOOLS First Impressions

"It just starts right up."

LOW and BEHOLD, LMAO, I missed where you had to put water in the back of the filter. There is a sound from the water shooting into the tank! Early on it seems to be working as advertised. Replace activated carbon every 6-8 months ish. The ability to regulate the flow solves the loud waterfall problem. BUT after some YouTube research I was able to fix the noise issue. A canister or in tank filter is ten times more work and messy.

  • UPETTOOLS Aquarium Biochemical Sponge Filter, Ultra Quite Aquarium Air Pump Single Head Bio Sponge Fish Tank Foam Filter
  • 【Multi-filtration Functions】Upettools sponge filter combines single scientific 7-layer ribbing shape sponge design, which can quickly established a bio-filter, improve purifying water quality, and the oxygen port can rotate 360 degrees without dead ends, keep your fish tank crystal clear and clean.
  • 【Special Ceramic Bio Filter Media】Upettools aquarium sponge filters compatible with one container with ceramic bio filter media inside, which help to remove harmful substance and increase oxygen level in your tank, you can replace the filter media to enhance water quality.
  • 【Removable Sponges 】 You can take down the sponge from the filter easily to clean or replace it. Sponge filters provide both mechanical and biological filtration, traps floating debris and protect your baby fish from being sucked up into the filter.
  • 【Easy to Set Up】Simply install an airline into the unit and turn on the air pump, great way to clean and oxygenate your tanks. Don't use tap water to clean it, simply squeeze the sponges in tank water.
  • 【Max Suit for 55GAL Fish Tank】Compatible with 2 suction cups, can be installed anywhere and can be easily hidden on the back wall of the aquarium. Suitable for freshwater & saltwater and all kinds of ornamental fish breeding, breeding and fish formation, especially for colorful fairy, small fish,shrimp tank, betta tank etc.
  • Manufacture: UPETTOOLS
  • Product Dimensions: 2.36 x 6.3 x 9.06 inches; 1.1 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The UPETTOOLS
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.9']
  • Quality [star rating='4.8']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.8']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.9']

UPETTOOLS Final Thoughts

"No issues."

I want to answer some of the complaints I've read. Fill up the media slot with water until it's full. I will pick 3-4 of these at one time over a single system any day. Fill it up with water before you plug it in. I contacted Marineland about my issue and they promptly sent me a new one right away! I own 3 of these and besides my canister they are my favorite filters. Typically just below the flat part of the outlets.

Overall Score
4.4

[star rating="4.4"]
(1003 Points)

9. Premier Replacement Filters for 5 or 6 Stage Aquarium Reef Reverse Osmosis RO/DI Water Systems (Sedi...

User Ratings: 78

Premier First Impressions

"I love this filter."

You do have to unplug it for those two jobs. It's only rated at 25 gph less, but holds considerably less media. I used to have a 37 gallon eclipse aquarium. I took it apart reassemble it and it's not pumping in the water. SO, I sat down and read EVERY little thing in rhe instructions. Lift the sticking wheel outuse a Q-tip to clean the slots where the wheel rests. It sounds like a Big Air pump buzzing.

  • Premier Replacement Filters for 5 or 6 Stage Aquarium Reef Reverse Osmosis RO/DI Water Systems (Sediment, GAC, Carbon, 2 DI Filters)
  • This replacement kit is great for aquariums, laboratory testing, and other applications where ultra-pure water is necessary
  • 0 PPM Water guaranteed. Quick & easy filter change. Long lasting premium quality filters
  • Filter Life: Pre Filters (Stage - 1,2,3) - 1 Year , DI Cartridge -1 Year. The life depends on the water quality, temperature, usage, and water pressure. (Membranes Sold Separately- Replace every-2 Years)
  • Set Includes: Sediment Block, GAC, Carbon Block, 1 or 2 Deionization Cartridges
  • 2.75 x 9.75" Filters. Fits Standard 10" RO Housing. Reference: B072FLZQR2 or B01MTK8KAM Systems
  • Manufacture: Premier
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Premier
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='5']
  • Quality [star rating='4.3']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.7']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.4']

Premier Final Thoughts

"Peace out Amazonians."

I have purchased several Aqua Clear filters over the years. I will pick 3-4 of these at one time over a single system any day. The ability to regulate the flow solves the loud waterfall problem. The first night I had the pump going it started making a screeching sound. BUT after some YouTube research I was able to fix the noise issue. You CAN rinse the old ones in an emergency. DO NOT CLEAN OR WASH the paper wheel itself.

Overall Score
4.5

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

10. 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)

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