Editor's Choice - Our Favorite Cannister Aquarium Filters
1. Penn Plax Cascade Pro-Carb Canister Filter for Aquariums, 8 Total Filters (4 packs with 2 filters in...
Penn-Plax First Impressions
"Kudos to Amazon prime!"The filter stopped working all of a sudden. This filter has is a very simple and efficient design. I took it apart reassemble it and it's not pumping in the water. Overall, I'm very happy with this filter. I attempted to clean and lube the impeller, but to no avail. 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.
- Penn Plax Cascade Pro-Carb Canister Filter for Aquariums, 8 Total Filters (4 packs with 2 filters in each pack)
- 8 Total Filters (4 packs with 2 filters in each pack)
- Convenient, ready-to-use filter bags for use with your Cascade cannister filter
- Contains carbon & ammonia removing zeolite crystals
- Filter media fully enclosed in a disposable nylon-mesh bag
- Manufacture: Penn Plax
- Product Dimensions: 7.5 x 5 x 2.5 inches; 1.2 Pounds
- Editor's Impressions Of The Penn-Plax
- Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.3']
- Quality [star rating='4.5']
- Value For Money [star rating='4.8']
- Affordability [star rating='5']
Penn-Plax Final Thoughts
"I'd recommend it."Overall, I like the 350's slim back design, and be able to add up to 4 cartridges. There is a sound from the water shooting into the tank! I was worried that it might be too much for my aquarium or that it would be loud. They were great to deal with and the new filter is working great! I checked and cleaned it and still just as loud. Now I'm having the same issue with the Aqua Clear 50. What I don't like is how much smaller it is than the Aqueon.
Overall Score
5.0
(2 Points)
PRICE AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
Here Are Some Other Related Aquarium Filters
2. Aqueon Aquarium Filter Kit w/Media (4 Month Supply), Up to 20 Gallons
User Ratings: 81 2
Aqueon 100540434 First Impressions
"My fault not theirs."SO I decided to order this for my 29 gallon tank. You can't really tell though, and the filter is working great. A canister or in tank filter is ten times more work and messy. So, easy is good, both for us and our fish. This one is working perfectly good FOR RIGHT NOW. It doesn't rise up hugely above the tank like a lot of HOB filters. I want to answer some of the complaints I've read.
- Aqueon Aquarium Filter Kit w/Media (4 Month Supply), Up to 20 Gallons
- Value pack includes: Aqueon Quietflow 10 filter, 4 Medium filter cartridges, 5 ammonia pads and water Conditioner sampler
- Five stage filtration: mechanical, chemical, biological, and an additional specialty pad for the cleanest, clearest, healthiest water
- Recommended for aquariums up to 20 gallons
- Self-priming - starts up automatically after cleaning or power interruptions
- High flow rates ensure a highly dissolved oxygen content or healthier, more active fish
- Manufacture: Central Garden & Pet
- Product Dimensions: 8.75 x 6.5 x 8.25 inches; 1.53 Pounds
- Editor's Impressions Of The Aqueon 100540434
- Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.1']
- Quality [star rating='4.8']
- Value For Money [star rating='3.7']
- Affordability [star rating='3.6']
Aqueon 100540434 Final Thoughts
"I should loosen it up."Typically just below the flat part of the outlets. I still have my original wheels on the year old 350 with no issues whatsoever. Now I'm having the same issue with the Aqua Clear 50. I put it together, reading instructions of course. That water got so dirty we had to keep changing it every 2 or 3 days. Following morning it was running quietly. Fill it up with water before you plug it in.
Overall Score
4.6
(220 Points)
PRICE AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
3. 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
(2951 Points)
PRICE AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
4. Zoo Med Turtle Clean External Canister Filter, 50-Gallon
User Ratings: 56 25
Zoo Med TC50 First Impressions
"Very pleased!"The instructions are a bit to much for me. I contacted Marineland about my issue and they promptly sent me a new one right away! My baby turtle even loves it so much he won't let go. My fish are definitely happier and my water is crystal clear. The bacteria eats the nitrates in the water to help keep it clean. What I don't like is how much smaller it is than the Aqueon. My baby turtle even loves it so much he won't let go.
- Zoo Med Turtle Clean External Canister Filter, 50-Gallon
- External canister filter with slimline design for tight spaces
- 200 gallon per hour rating, ideal for turtle habitats up to 50 gallons in size
- The included spray bar increases oxygenation to help support your turtles' health
- Double filtering system with both carbon and ceramic filters and internal biological recirculation
- Combines mechanical, biological, and chemical filtration to give your pets the cleanest, healthiest habitat
- Manufacture: Zoo Med
- Product Dimensions: 11.2 x 9.5 x 14.5 inches; 1.2 Pounds
- Editor's Impressions Of The Zoo Med TC50
- Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3']
- Quality [star rating='4.5']
- Value For Money [star rating='2.9']
- Affordability [star rating='4.4']
Zoo Med TC50 Final Thoughts
"This is not."Of course the sound all depends on how much water is in the aquarium. First they are simple and designed to pump and filter aquarium water. My tank was a mess when I got this pump. Never ever ever use it past a year. Replace activated carbon every 6-8 months ish. I plan to cycle this new AC 50 on a separate tank and then xfer it to the 20 gallon. Clean the foam insert apparently it pulled a lot of dirt and needs cleaned.
Overall Score
3.7
(86 Points)
PRICE AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
5. Aqueon QuietFlow LED PRO Aquarium Power Filters
User Ratings: 68 9
Aqueon 100113236 First Impressions
"Seriously."I wasn't able to fill my tank fully because there was little to no surface agitation. Not sure what I'll do with the more complex design. My fish are definitely happier and my water is crystal clear. Once I found that, the world was right again. You'll want to pull that water from the bottom. My tank is nice and clear and my fish are much happier. Of course the sound all depends on how much water is in the aquarium.
- Aqueon QuietFlow LED PRO Aquarium Power Filters
- 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
- LED indicator light flashes when it's time to change the cartridge
- Filter pump is self-priming, just plug and play out of the box; filter will auto-restart if power is interrupted and restored
- Provides mechanical, chemical, biological, and additional specialty pad filtration
- Manufacture: Central Garden & Pet
- Product Dimensions: 14.25 x 9.25 x 7 inches; 3.8 Pounds
- Editor's Impressions Of The Aqueon 100113236
- Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.5']
- Quality [star rating='4.8']
- Value For Money [star rating='4.3']
- Affordability [star rating='5']
Aqueon 100113236 Final Thoughts
"My fault not theirs."One thing I think is worth mentioning is the need to prime the filter. Therefore, you wouldnt have 2 filters running. Firstly, I'd recommend taking the motor apart and putting it back together. So, easy is good, both for us and our fish. Overall I would recommend this item. I recently upgraded from a 10 gallon aquarium to a 29 gallon. Basically, make sure everything that is suppose to spin, does so smoothly.
Overall Score
4.3
(479 Points)
PRICE AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
6. CNZ 7" Holder for Aquarium Reef Tank Sock Filter Bag
User Ratings: 56 10
CNZ CNZSFH7 First Impressions
"And it is so quiet."What I don't like is how much smaller it is than the Aqueon. I decided to go with this filter since I had a positive experience previously. Overall, I like the 350's slim back design, and be able to add up to 4 cartridges. A canister or in tank filter is ten times more work and messy. Worst case is that the motor could burn out. It sounds like a Big Air pump buzzing. You do have to unplug it for those two jobs.
- CNZ 7" Holder for Aquarium Reef Tank Sock Filter Bag
- Easy-to-install filter bag holder for any sump filtration system
- enhances mechanical filtration
- Can be use on acrylic or glass tank
- Fit up to 3/4 inch of the thickness of tank glass
- Package includes: 1x 7" holder, 2 durable plastic screws
- Manufacture: CNZ
- Product Dimensions: 11 x 6 x 2 inches; 11.64 Ounces
- Editor's Impressions Of The CNZ CNZSFH7
- Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.1']
- Quality [star rating='4.9']
- Value For Money [star rating='4.7']
- Affordability [star rating='3.5']
CNZ CNZSFH7 Final Thoughts
"- Plug it into power."LOW and BEHOLD, LMAO, I missed where you had to put water in the back of the filter. SO, I sat down and read EVERY little thing in rhe instructions. In the afternoon the noises started again. This filter comes with a sponge, activated carbon, and bio material in a mesh bag. Oscars are very messy fish, especially during feeding. It sounds like a Big Air pump buzzing. I'd highly recommend not replacing the bio material& sponge, ever.
Overall Score
4.1
(18 Points)
PRICE AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
7. LiquaGen - 6 Stage Heavy Duty - 0 PPM Reverse Osmosis/Deionization Aquarium Reef Water Filter System...
LiquaGen 617629986655 First Impressions
"Since then no problems."I decided to go with this filter since I had a positive experience previously. Never ever ever use it past a year. They were great to deal with and the new filter is working great! I was new to the hobby and didn't realize that Tetras were inferior filters. My tank is nice and clear and my fish are much happier. I decided to go with this filter since I had a positive experience previously. Basically, make sure everything that is suppose to spin, does so smoothly.
- LiquaGen - 6 Stage Heavy Duty - 0 PPM Reverse Osmosis/Deionization Aquarium Reef Water Filter System, 150 GPD
- This product is great for aquariums, laboratory testing, and other applications where ultra-pure water is necessary. 1 year Satisfaction Guarantee, w/ life time support by water technology experts based in California. We pressure test EVERY system before it is shipped ensuring the highest standard of quality.
- Long lasting filters (standard 10 inch filters) w/ high quality connect fittings | Super easy & convenient installation.
- Pre- Assembled system for easy installation. Guaranteed 0 ppm water. 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
- Manufacture: LiquaGen Water Technology
- Product Dimensions: 17 x 7 x 16 inches; 21 Pounds
- Editor's Impressions Of The LiquaGen 617629986655
- Filter Effectiveness [star rating='5']
- Quality [star rating='4.1']
- Value For Money [star rating='4.8']
- Affordability [star rating='5']
LiquaGen 617629986655 Final Thoughts
"The product itself."I have contacted customer service to see if I can get a replacement unit. I will pick 3-4 of these at one time over a single system any day. In the afternoon the noises started again. This filter has is a very simple and efficient design. All in all, I highly recommend this filter and I'm a extremely happy customer! 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.
Overall Score
5.0
(4 Points)
PRICE AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
8. EA Performance Hang-On Power Filter - for Aquariums up to 10 GAL - NOT Made in CH!NA
User Ratings: 68 7
EA First Impressions
"Great product."I can take apart a car engine and put it back together. This filter has is a very simple and efficient design. The filter stopped working all of a sudden. I was new to the hobby and didn't realize that Tetras were inferior filters. They are easily found from mom-n-pop pet stores to large chain stores. My tank was a mess when I got this pump. I AM IMPRESSED THAT IT WORKS AS IT ACTUALLY SHOULD!
- EA Performance Hang-On Power Filter - for Aquariums up to 10 GAL - NOT Made in CH!NA
- Stage one - mechanical: Advanced multi-layered polyfiber floss traps micro & macro organic particles and foreign debris
- Stage two - chemical: Super-activated carbon granules absorbs many disolved contaminants, odor, toxins, and discoloration
- Stage three - biological: Hi-flow bio-sponge promotes colonization of beneficial bacteria essential to a healthy aquatic environment. Porous, biological sponge promotes beneficial bacteria colonization.
- Includes no-mess cartridge and sponge, keeps hands dry and clean during cartridge changes. Plug and play design for easy installation and simple maintenance.
- Dual-slotted filter body allows for double the filtration capacity. Multi-stage, mechanical, chemical & biological filtration. Flow rate 95GPH. This filter accepts filter cartridges made by Aquarium Masters & Deep Blue Professional. Search on Amazon for the following ASIN numbers. B009441P5C (Medium) B00T6XUKUM (Model 10) B07HKM6217 (Medium) LOW COST OF OWNERSHIP WITH EA PERFORMANCE CARTRIDGES! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B084Z21M8L?ref=myi_title_dp
- Manufacture: EA
- Editor's Impressions Of The EA
- Filter Effectiveness [star rating='5']
- Quality [star rating='4.9']
- Value For Money [star rating='3.8']
- Affordability [star rating='4.5']
EA Final Thoughts
"Huge capacity."I had to cut the hood to make it work. As for performance, I couldn't ask for a better filter. The instructions are a bit to much for me. Overall, I'm very happy with this filter. I've been researching so many things on how to take care of them. They are easily found from mom-n-pop pet stores to large chain stores. This is a good choice if you're tired of cleaning your turtle tank all the time.
Overall Score
4.2
(64 Points)
PRICE AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
9. AquaClear, Fish Tank Filter, 5 to 20 Gallons, 110v, A595
User Ratings: 75 6
AquaClear A595 First Impressions
"Its AMAZING."DO NOT CLEAN OR WASH the paper wheel itself. I've think I've had had six of them. I was worried about some of the negative reviews. The bacteria eats the nitrates in the water to help keep it clean. Replace activated carbon every 6-8 months ish. Oscars are very messy fish, especially during feeding. I've looked at so many filters and reviews.
- AquaClear, Fish Tank Filter, 5 to 20 Gallons, 110v, A595
- Aquarium filtration system that offers superior contact time with filter media and energy efficient pump lowers operating costs
- Quick and easy installation, we recommend that you clean aquarium filter every two weeks for maximum operation and efficiency
- Provides optimal mechanical, chemical, and biological filtrations
- Comes equipped with AquaClear Foam, Activated Carbon Filter and BioMax and Cycle Guard for superior water quality
- Filtration volume is up to 7 times larger than comparable fish tank filters
- Lifetime warranty; ideal for aquariums up to 20 gallons
- Manufacture: Rolf C. Hagen (USA) Corp.
- Product Dimensions: 4.5 x 7 x 6.5 inches; 1.4 Pounds
- Editor's Impressions Of The AquaClear A595
- Filter Effectiveness [star rating='5']
- Quality [star rating='4']
- Value For Money [star rating='5']
- Affordability [star rating='5']
AquaClear A595 Final Thoughts
"One piece of advice."My box came in good condition, parts where in tact and new. With the 350's inexpensive price point, you can’t go wrong with this powerful filter. I use Marinelands refillable cartridge for extra carbon on the extra slots. Early on it seems to be working as advertised. That water got so dirty we had to keep changing it every 2 or 3 days. Fill up the media slot with water until it's full. Not sure what I'll do with the more complex design.
Overall Score
4.5
(3199 Points)
PRICE AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
10. AQQA Aquariums Power Filter,2W 80GPH External Hang On Fish Tank Sponge Filter with Surface Skimmer,A...
User Ratings: 58
AQQA First Impressions
"Added 3 baby turtles."Following morning it was running quietly. I had to lower the surface by 3 inches to get sufficient agitation. I want to answer some of the complaints I've read. I used to work as a marine biologist for a major state aquarium. So, easy is good, both for us and our fish. I'm currently in the process of receiving another replacement on that model. My baby turtle even loves it so much he won't let go.
- AQQA Aquariums Power Filter,2W 80GPH External Hang On Fish Tank Sponge Filter with Surface Skimmer,Adjustable Flowrate 3-Step Filtration Cascade for Freshwater Saltwater Fish Tank
- 【Upgrade Power Sponge Filter】No need air pump, strong horse-power 2W 80GPH, can quickly purify fish tank water quality.waterfall type water flow design,Not only increase the aesthetics of the fish tank, but also increase the dissolved oxygen.External hang on by the fish tank,take up less space in the fish tank, leaving more room for the fish.
- 【3-Step Filtration】The biochemical sponge at the water inlet prevents the inhalation of sand and fish.The inhaled water carries fish poop and other impurities,It passes through a layer of biochemical sponge, a layer of activated carbon media, and a layer of professional filter cotton to achieve the function of evolving water quality.The filter layer can be replaced, and the store has separate filter layer for sale.
- 【Set with Oil Surface Skimmer】surface skimmer can be assembled freely, installed or removed.Our surface skimmer no need to adjust according to the water surface, it will automatically float on the water surface, change according to the water level change, remove the impurities and oil surface on the water surface.If it is not needed, just plug the installation hole.
- 【Adjustable Water Pipe+Extended Pipes】The length of the water pipe can be adjusted freely to adapt to fish tanks of various heights，With extension tube, it can be installed freely according to the height of the fish tank.Outer water tank with level governor,Used to adapt to the thickness of different fish tanks and keep the filter vertical.
- 【Precautions Before Use】Our filter is very quiet and the noise is less than 30db,Please fill the water tank with water before use to drive the water pump to pump water.When you start to use it, if there is air in the water pipe, it will make some noise. When the air in the water pipe is discharged, it will be very quiet.We have a one-year warranty, please contact us if you have any questions.
- Manufacture: AQQA
- Editor's Impressions Of The AQQA
- Filter Effectiveness [star rating='5']
- Quality [star rating='3.3']
- Value For Money [star rating='3.5']
- Affordability [star rating='4']
AQQA Final Thoughts
"That also didn't work."I've been researching so many things on how to take care of them. I can take apart a car engine and put it back together. The ability to regulate the flow solves the loud waterfall problem. This is a good choice if you're tired of cleaning your turtle tank all the time. They were great to deal with and the new filter is working great! Doing research I learned that if I add more filter media, the noise will subside. I've been researching so many things on how to take care of them.
Overall Score
4.3
(8 Points)
PRICE AVAILABLE ON AMAZON