Editor's Choice - Our Favorite CNZ Aquarium Filters

1. 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

[star rating="4.1"]
(18 Points)

2. Azoo Mignon Filter 150 Power Filter

User Ratings: 64 6

Azoo AZ13107 First Impressions

"I like the design."

I will never buy any other HOB no matter what deal they might be offering. Controlling the flow rate doesn't require modifying the filter. The Aqua Clear is on the left and the Aqueon is on the right. I had originally got one for my 75 Gallon tank housing an Oscar. I attempted to clean and lube the impeller, but to no avail. The Aqua Clear is on the left and the Aqueon is on the right. I'm currently in the process of receiving another replacement on that model.

  • Azoo Mignon Filter 150 Power Filter
  • Quiet and efficient
  • Hang on back design
  • Easy to maintain
  • Manufacture: Sevenports, Inc
  • Product Dimensions: 4 x 3.5 x 4.5 inches; 11.1 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Azoo AZ13107
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.2']
  • Quality [star rating='4']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.4']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.7']

Azoo AZ13107 Final Thoughts

"Suuuuupppeeerrrr Quiet."

I had originally got one for my 75 Gallon tank housing an Oscar. I thought that U had put it together wrong so I took it all apart and started over. I'm a mechanical engineer and understand design. I liked the clean lined look and the pull out basket. I checked and cleaned it and still just as loud. Doing research I learned that if I add more filter media, the noise will subside. I attempted to clean and lube the impeller, but to no avail.

Overall Score
4.3

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

3. 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)

4. Hamiledyi Fish Tank Filter Media Cuboid Bacteria House Bio Filtration Media Aquarium Ceramic Biologi...

User Ratings: 62

Hamiledyi First Impressions

"Not ideal but it works."

, that's what makes this so funny. BUT after some YouTube research I was able to fix the noise issue. There must be a huge batch of these units at Amazon right now that are bad. Never ever ever use it past a year. They can be very noisy at the impeller, which sometimes quiets in time, but may not. All in all, I highly recommend this filter and I'm a extremely happy customer! This is a good choice if you're tired of cleaning your turtle tank all the time.

  • Hamiledyi Fish Tank Filter Media Cuboid Bacteria House Bio Filtration Media Aquarium Ceramic Biological Filter Media for Sump Tank Pond
  • [Dual Purpose Filtration]: This aquarium filter media serves mechanical filtration to catch fine particles and biological filtration for raising good stuff
  • [Large Surface Area]: Premium ceramic media covered with thousands of porous tiny holes provides large surface area for bio filtration as well as filter out sparkling clear water
  • [Crystal Clear Water]: Aquarium media block effectively absorbs fish waste and debris, providing crystal clear water for fish to thrive
  • [Valued Bulk 20-Pack Ceramic Blocks]: Each block measures 6.4" long, 1.6" diameter, approx 90 grams. Package includes: 20 packs ceramic blocks, approximately 7.9 lbs in total
  • [Wide Application]: crack into pieces to any size needed, great for used in freshwater aquariums, planted aquariums, sumps and ponds. (PS: not suitable for saltwater aquarium)
  • 1.Please allow 1-3cm error due to manual measurement. pls make sure you do not mind before you bid.
  • 2.Due to the difference between different monitors, the picture may not reflect the actual color of the item.
  • Thank you for your purchase and support!
  • Manufacture: Hamiledyi
  • Product Dimensions: 4 x 3 x 2 inches; 3.92 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Hamiledyi
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.9']
  • Quality [star rating='3.3']
  • Value For Money [star rating='2.9']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.2']

Hamiledyi Final Thoughts

"My fault not theirs."

I was using a Tetra in-tank filter previously. As for performance, I couldn't ask for a better filter. The filter arrived within 2 days and was the exact same as Petsmart's. Firstly, I'd recommend taking the motor apart and putting it back together. 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. I took it apart reassemble it and it's not pumping in the water.

Overall Score
3.9

[star rating="3.9"]
(3 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. Odyssea Clean 100 Surface Skimmer Aquarium Filter 450L Plant Internal

User Ratings: 51 12

Odyssea Clean 100 First Impressions

"I should loosen it up."

I'm currently in the process of receiving another replacement on that model. The first night I had the pump going it started making a screeching sound. I was using a Tetra in-tank filter previously. I have 4 other AquaClear filters and like them. There must be a huge batch of these units at Amazon right now that are bad. Unlike my old HOB filter, it doesn't sound like a leaky toilet. I still have my original wheels on the year old 350 with no issues whatsoever.

  • Odyssea Clean 100 Surface Skimmer Aquarium Filter 450L Plant Internal
  • Flow rate: 110 GPH
  • Energy efficient 5W pump
  • Skims surface build-up to improve water quality
  • Great for freshwater planted aquariums
  • Works with both freshwater and marine
  • Manufacture: Odyssea
  • Product Dimensions: 9 x 7.5 x 2 inches; 12.7 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Odyssea Clean 100
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.1']
  • Quality [star rating='4.4']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.6']
  • Affordability [star rating='3']

Odyssea Clean 100 Final Thoughts

"This filter is perfect!"

SO, I sat down and read EVERY little thing in rhe instructions. Not sure what I'll do with the more complex design. The bacteria eats the nitrates in the water to help keep it clean. This is a well designed unit and a lot of bang for the buck. My tank was a mess when I got this pump. I contacted Marineland about my issue and they promptly sent me a new one right away! Fill it up with water before you plug it in.

Overall Score
3.8

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

7. RO/DI Dual Outlet Drinking water/Aquarium Reef System CLEAR Manual Flush 100GPD

User Ratings: 61 39

Fountainhead Water Systems First Impressions

"I was to tire to fix it."

My fish are definitely happier and my water is crystal clear. I was worried that it might be too much for my aquarium or that it would be loud. They are simply the best design for nitrifying bacteria to grow on. I ordered 4 of these, for different tanks of course. If that does not work, look into silicone grease so you can lube the impeller. I will pick 3-4 of these at one time over a single system any day. That water got so dirty we had to keep changing it every 2 or 3 days.

  • RO/DI Dual Outlet Drinking water/Aquarium Reef System CLEAR Manual Flush 100GPD
  • Type:Reverse Osmosis Unit, Mpn:FHDRODIC100
  • Water Type:All Water Types
  • Brand:FOUNTAINHEAD WATER SYSTEMS
  • Manufacture: FOUNTAINHEAD WATER SYSTEMS
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Fountainhead Water Systems
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.2']
  • Quality [star rating='2.6']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.6']

Fountainhead Water Systems Final Thoughts

"-Not self-priming."

It wasn't producing much surface agitation. I have the topfin 29 gallon tank and used the HOB filter it came with. I was also having oxygen issues because of this. This filter comes with a sponge, activated carbon, and bio material in a mesh bag. I've been researching so many things on how to take care of them. You do have to unplug it for those two jobs. This new AQ50 filter has loose bio-media, i.

Overall Score
3.4

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

8. QuietFlow Aqueon 50 LED Pro Power Filter

User Ratings: 64 9

QuietFlow 4334824686 First Impressions

"-Not self-priming."

They were great to deal with and the new filter is working great! This filter comes with a sponge, activated carbon, and bio material in a mesh bag. I used a small pair of pliers and carefully got the pebbles out. This is not my first experience with a marineland filter. I had a lot of particles in the water. They are easily found from mom-n-pop pet stores to large chain stores. They are easily found from mom-n-pop pet stores to large chain stores.

  • QuietFlow Aqueon 50 LED Pro Power Filter
  • The Aqueon QuietFlow LED Pro 50 Power Filter features four stages of filtration–mechanical, chemical, biological and wet/dry–for the cleanest, clearest, healthiest water
  • This new version includes an LED light that flashes when the cartridge becomes clogged, indicating it is time for replacement. The batteries are included for this feature.
  • 250 gph flow rate
  • Manufacture: Aqueon
  • Editor's Impressions Of The QuietFlow 4334824686
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='5']
  • Quality [star rating='3.8']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.3']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.5']

QuietFlow 4334824686 Final Thoughts

"It just is."

Overall, I like the 350's slim back design, and be able to add up to 4 cartridges. I'm a mechanical engineer and understand design. You'll want to pull that water from the bottom. You do have to unplug it for those two jobs. Marineland bio pumps have been around forever. I've think I've had had six of them. My old pump was not working very well so I had to make a major clean up.

Overall Score
4.2

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

9. Aqueon Betta Filters Volcano One Size

User Ratings: 49

Aqueon 100542356 First Impressions

"Five years later."

A canister or in tank filter is ten times more work and messy. I have 4 other AquaClear filters and like them. I have had no issues with it being to loud. I wasn't able to fill my tank fully because there was little to no surface agitation. Typically just below the flat part of the outlets. With the 350's inexpensive price point, you can’t go wrong with this powerful filter. I thought that U had put it together wrong so I took it all apart and started over.

  • Aqueon Betta Filters Volcano One Size
  • For small betta habitats like bowls and aquariums up to 3 gallons
  • Carbon and sponge cartridge should be replaced monthly for optimal performance
  • Air bubbles provided added environmental enrichment and oxygen in betta habitat
  • Requires air pump for operation (sold separately)
  • 90 Day Limited Warranty
  • Air operated betta filter with volcano decoration helps improve water quality and clarity for a healthier habitat
  • Included: Betta filter with volcano, suction cup base, air tubing and suction cups, air adjustment valve, check valve, instructions
  • Manufacture: Central Garden & Pet
  • Product Dimensions: 4.2 x 2 x 8 inches; 4.96 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Aqueon 100542356
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.7']
  • Quality [star rating='3.3']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.8']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.5']

Aqueon 100542356 Final Thoughts

"I bought this filter."

That water got so dirty we had to keep changing it every 2 or 3 days. I used to have a 37 gallon eclipse aquarium. Fill it up with water before you plug it in. Therefore, you wouldnt have 2 filters running. Replace activated carbon every 6-8 months ish. I stopped the pump and I pulled it apart. In the afternoon the noises started again.

Overall Score
4.0

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

10. 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)

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