Editor's Choice - Our Favorite Eheim Aquarium Filters

1. EHEIM Classic External Canister Filter with Media

User Ratings: 65 8

Eheim 2213371 First Impressions

"Thanks, AquaTech."

I'm currently in the process of receiving another replacement on that model. I used to work as a marine biologist for a major state aquarium. That water got so dirty we had to keep changing it every 2 or 3 days. Months later, this filter is still working great on my 29 gal set up. Never ever ever use it past a year. One thing I think is worth mentioning is the need to prime the filter. That water got so dirty we had to keep changing it every 2 or 3 days.

  • EHEIM Classic External Canister Filter with Media
  • Permo-elastic silicon sealing ring fixed on the pump head for easy and safe closing after cleaning
  • Equipped with filter sponges and/or loose filter media
  • Accessories included: spray bar, inlet pipe, hose and installation accessories
  • Comes complete with filter media (EHEIM Mech & Substrat Pro) and valves
  • Permo-elastic silicon sealing ring fixed on the pump head for easy and safe closing after cleaning
  • Equipped with filter sponges and/or loose filter media
  • Accessories included: spray bar, inlet pipe, hose and installation accessories
  • Manufacture: Eheim
  • Product Dimensions: 8 x 6.3 x 13.98 inches; 4.49 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Eheim 2213371
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.2']
  • Quality [star rating='3.3']
  • Value For Money [star rating='5']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.3']

Eheim 2213371 Final Thoughts

"This thing is super loud!"

It's easy to clean and we all know about easy. I used to work as a marine biologist for a major state aquarium. SO I decided to order this for my 29 gallon tank. The Aqua Clear is on the left and the Aqueon is on the right. Early on it seems to be working as advertised. You do have to unplug it for those two jobs. Overall, I like the 350's slim back design, and be able to add up to 4 cartridges.

Overall Score
4.2

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

Peoples Choice - Other Highly Rated Eheim Aquarium Filters

2. Eheim Pro 4+ 250 Filter up to 65g

User Ratings: 56 16

Eheim 720686225022 First Impressions

"Great product."

I had to cut the hood to make it work. Typically just below the flat part of the outlets. SO I decided to order this for my 29 gallon tank. This one is working perfectly good FOR RIGHT NOW. I also like the fact that it is relatively low profile and discreet looking. First they are simple and designed to pump and filter aquarium water. My baby turtle even loves it so much he won't let go.

  • Eheim Pro 4+ 250 Filter up to 65g
  • Pro4+ filter replaces the EHEIM Pro 3 range
  • This new filter doesnt just boast a new sleek black color but it also has a Range Xtender Function
  • As with most EHEIM filters, the Pro4+ comes complete with filter pads and media and all installation equipment
  • Country Of Origin: Germany
  • Manufacture: Eheim
  • Product Dimensions: 10 x 10 x 14 inches; 12 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Eheim 720686225022
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4']
  • Quality [star rating='3.3']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.2']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.2']

Eheim 720686225022 Final Thoughts

"I like the design."

Now I'm having the same issue with the Aqua Clear 50. Also the maker should review the pump design. I wasn't able to fill my tank fully because there was little to no surface agitation. I ordered 4 of these, for different tanks of course. I own 3 of these and besides my canister they are my favorite filters. I have always used Marineland filters and been happy with them and their quality. You can't really tell though, and the filter is working great.

Overall Score
3.9

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

3. Eheim 6666 Pro 4+ Canister Filter

User Ratings: 47 24

Eheim 6666 First Impressions

"Really like the filter."

I stopped the pump and I pulled it apart. I was using a Tetra in-tank filter previously. The instructions are a bit to much for me. The current is strong but you can adjust it with the midsection lever. Clean the foam insert apparently it pulled a lot of dirt and needs cleaned. Overall I would recommend this item. I wasn't able to fill my tank fully because there was little to no surface agitation.

  • Eheim 6666 Pro 4+ Canister Filter
  • This product is easy to use. This product adds a great value. This product is manufactured in Germany. This product is designed for pets and there use.
  • This new Filter doesn't just boast a new sleek Black color but it also has a range extender function
  • As with most Eheim filters, the Pro4+ comes complete with Filter Pads and media and all installation Equipment
  • Country Of Origin: Germany
  • Manufacture: Prime Pet Deals - Code 2
  • Product Dimensions: 10 x 8 x 6 inches; 8 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Eheim 6666
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.3']
  • Quality [star rating='4.3']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.6']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.3']

Eheim 6666 Final Thoughts

"I love this filter."

Lightly clean the silver roller pins on the ends. A canister or in tank filter is ten times more work and messy. The bacteria eats the nitrates in the water to help keep it clean. Works like a dream and can't even hear it! I own 3 of these and besides my canister they are my favorite filters. Following morning it was running quietly. , that's what makes this so funny.

Overall Score
3.5

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

4. hygger Adjustable 158GPH 12W Aquarium Filter with 3 Stages Filtration, Hang On Power Filter for Fish...

User Ratings: 61 9

hygger First Impressions

"This thing is super loud!"

Months later, this filter is still working great on my 29 gal set up. I'd highly recommend not replacing the bio material& sponge, ever. Worst case is that the motor could burn out. They were great to deal with and the new filter is working great! Your fish and you will be much happier and stun everyone else. As for performance, I couldn't ask for a better filter. First they are simple and designed to pump and filter aquarium water.

  • hygger Adjustable 158GPH 12W Aquarium Filter with 3 Stages Filtration, Hang On Power Filter for Fish Tank 5-30 Gallon, Cord 5.9ft
  • 【Efficient 3-Stage Filtration】12W external power filter, AC 110-120V/60HZ. With 3 stages of filtration system, combines mechanical, chemical, as well as biological filtration effects, high filtration effects to keep fish tank water crystal clean. A separate filter basket containing 3 layers of filter media: sponge insert, activated carbon pellets, black bio balls
  • 【Water Flow Adjustable】the max water flow rate of the bio aquarium filter is 158GPH, there is a knob at the top of the filter and will outside the cover, you can easy to rotate the knob to control the water flow according to your needs. A must have bio filter for 3 to 50 gallon small fish tank
  • 【Ultra Quiet Aquarium Filter】 the built-in water pump of the filter works quietly, and the filter comes with a cover, will cut off most sounds. The waterfall design enables filtered water back to the tank silently, you can only hear the water sounds when it's working, the sound is less than 40dB, will not disturb the fish in the aquarium tank and your sleep
  • 【Fits for Most Fish Tank Thickness】easy to install and use, the filter case is at the back of the filter, outside of the fish tank. Can hang it on to most square fish tanks, it comes with a separate fix knob to make the clip of the filter to fit different thickness of fish tank wall
  • 【With a Floating Skimmer】 there is a floating skimmer put on the telescopic water intake tube, it will be floating up when sinks into water, visible impurities floating on the water will go into the skimmer house when the filter pump is running
  • Manufacture: hygger
  • Editor's Impressions Of The hygger
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.5']
  • Quality [star rating='4.4']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.9']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.8']

hygger Final Thoughts

"I bought this filter."

This filter comes with a sponge, activated carbon, and bio material in a mesh bag. SO, I sat down and read EVERY little thing in rhe instructions. Once it loses its charge, you'll need to replace it. I've been researching so many things on how to take care of them. Fill up the media slot with water until it's full. I have had no issues with it being to loud. I have always used Marineland filters and been happy with them and their quality.

Overall Score
4.3

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

5. Odyssea EX 350 DX Internal Filter Powerhead Aquarium Water Pump Submersible

User Ratings: 75 4

Odyssea First Impressions

"It works great."

I used to work as a marine biologist for a major state aquarium. I decided to go with this filter since I had a positive experience previously. Lightly clean the silver roller pins on the ends. I wasn't able to fill my tank fully because there was little to no surface agitation. All in all, I highly recommend this filter and I'm a extremely happy customer! I also like the fact that it is relatively low profile and discreet looking. I will never buy any other HOB no matter what deal they might be offering.

  • Odyssea EX 350 DX Internal Filter Powerhead Aquarium Water Pump Submersible
  • Flow Rate: 350 GPH
  • For use with 40G - 60G
  • Include air line, filter cone, suction cups
  • Freshwater and Saltwater aquariums
  • 110V Only
  • Manufacture: Odyssea
  • Product Dimensions: 11 x 8 x 3.5 inches; 1.7 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Odyssea
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.6']
  • Quality [star rating='4']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.9']
  • Affordability [star rating='5']

Odyssea Final Thoughts

"I was to tire to fix it."

Also the maker should review the pump design. It doesn't rise up hugely above the tank like a lot of HOB filters. I attempted to clean and lube the impeller, but to no avail. I had originally got one for my 75 Gallon tank housing an Oscar. You'll want to pull that water from the bottom. Also the maker should review the pump design. Marineland bio pumps have been around forever.

Overall Score
4.5

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

6. 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)

7. 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)

8. Fluval 107 Perfomance Canister Filter

User Ratings: 72 8

Fluval A440 First Impressions

"Not ideal but it works."

It wasn't producing much surface agitation. It wasn't producing much surface agitation. Unlike my old HOB filter, it doesn't sound like a leaky toilet. All in all, I highly recommend this filter and I'm a extremely happy customer! I'd highly recommend not replacing the bio material& sponge, ever. Overall I would recommend this item. Your fish and you will be much happier and stun everyone else.

  • Fluval 107 Perfomance Canister Filter
  • Ergonomic design and raised lip for smoother operation
  • Single action dual locking clamps for quick release & attachment
  • New center handle allows Main media stack to be removed
  • Redesigned system – requires less pumps to engage
  • The all-new 07 series marks the 7th incarnation in nearly 4 decades of fluval’s top selling canister Filter family Worldwide. Not only does the latest generation incorporate the power and reliability you’ve come to expect from the leader in aquatic filtration, but it also features several new performance upgrades that make it up to 25% quieter and more robust, energy-efficient, flexible and easier to use than ever before
  • Manufacture: Hagen
  • Item Weight: 2.2 pounds
  • Product Dimensions: 0.39 x 0.39 x 0.39 inches
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Fluval A440
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.6']
  • Quality [star rating='3.9']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.8']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.9']

Fluval A440 Final Thoughts

"A few tips."

I had a lot of particles in the water. You'll want to pull that water from the bottom. Works like a dream and can't even hear it! They are simply the best design for nitrifying bacteria to grow on. Lift the sticking wheel outuse a Q-tip to clean the slots where the wheel rests. My baby turtle even loves it so much he won't let go. I wasn't able to fill my tank fully because there was little to no surface agitation.

Overall Score
4.4

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

9. Hagen 15-Pack Marina Slim Aquarium Water Filter with Zeolite Plus Ceramic Cartridge

User Ratings: 77 2

Hagen 33194 First Impressions

"This is not."

The bacteria eats the nitrates in the water to help keep it clean. Lift the sticking wheel outuse a Q-tip to clean the slots where the wheel rests. As for performance, I couldn't ask for a better filter. Firstly, I'd recommend taking the motor apart and putting it back together. Fill it up with water before you plug it in. This one is working perfectly good FOR RIGHT NOW. I will never buy any other HOB no matter what deal they might be offering.

  • Hagen 15-Pack Marina Slim Aquarium Water Filter with Zeolite Plus Ceramic Cartridge
  • 15 Count Bio Clear Cartridges for Slim Filters
  • Best for goldfish and ideal for start-up fish tanks
  • Zeolite effectively adsorbs toxic ammonia and reduces stress on fish
  • Ceramitek, a highly porous ceramic biological filter medium, optimizes biological filtration
  • Genuine replacement filter cartridges for all 3 Marina Slim Aquarium Filter Models (S10, S15, S20)
  • Manufacture: Monster Pets
  • Product Dimensions: 5 x 2 x 10 inches; 12 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Hagen 33194
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.1']
  • Quality [star rating='5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='5']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.4']

Hagen 33194 Final Thoughts

"SO THEREFORE."

I also don't like how short the intake tube is. It's easy to clean and we all know about easy. Not sure what I'll do with the more complex design. It doesn't rise up hugely above the tank like a lot of HOB filters. I also don't like how short the intake tube is. You'll want to pull that water from the bottom. I had a lot of particles in the water.

Overall Score
4.7

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

10. boxtech Aquarium Hang On Filter - Power Waterfall Suspension Oxygen Pump - Submersible Hanging Activ...

User Ratings: 52 14

boxtech 4346783286 First Impressions

"It's priced awesome!"

I had to cut the hood to make it work. It wasn't producing much surface agitation. Therefore, you wouldnt have 2 filters running. The filter stopped working all of a sudden. Overall I would recommend this item. Oscars are very messy fish, especially during feeding. I have 4 other AquaClear filters and like them.

  • boxtech Aquarium Hang On Filter - Power Waterfall Suspension Oxygen Pump - Submersible Hanging Activated Carbon Biochemical Wall Mounted Fish Tank Filtration Water
  • 3 in 1 Multi-function filter: Aquarium filter has the function for filtration,oxygen aeration and clearing oil-film, a variety functions provide by ultra-thin design filter, perfect for your fish tank.
  • Low noise: Filter motor running will not bring noise, will not affect the life and mood.
  • Adjustable flow valve: The water flow is adjustable, dissolved oxygen for creature growing.Suitable water flow, fit for fish bowl and grass cylinder,so it satisfy your various demand.
  • Hanging on filter with filter plate design:can increased filter strage space,also clean up aquarium fish feces, create a clean environment for your lovely fish.
  • Safe material: The fish tank filter made of ABS plastic,strong, quiet and durable
  • Prevent clogging of the pumping port
  • Removable cleaning
  • Prevent small fish from being sucked away
  • Manufacture: Boxtech
  • Product Dimensions: 4.72 x 4.72 x 3.54 inches; 9.59 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The boxtech 4346783286
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.9']
  • Quality [star rating='3.3']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.2']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.5']

boxtech 4346783286 Final Thoughts

"I bought an FX6 in 2013."

You can't really tell though, and the filter is working great. They can be very noisy at the impeller, which sometimes quiets in time, but may not. I use Marinelands refillable cartridge for extra carbon on the extra slots. I have 4 other AquaClear filters and like them. SO, I sat down and read EVERY little thing in rhe instructions. This lives up to the praise that people give it. They were great to deal with and the new filter is working great!

Overall Score
3.8

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

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