Editor's Choice - Our Favorite Finnex Aquarium Filters

1. Finnex PF-7 Nano Aquarium HOB Power Filter, 52 GPH,Clear Smoke

User Ratings: 76

Finnex PF-7 First Impressions

"Will UPDATE!"

Overall I would recommend this item. I have had no issues with it being to loud. I checked and cleaned it and still just as loud. I had to cut the hood to make it work. What I don't like is how much smaller it is than the Aqueon. The only thing you hear is the water and even that is a soothing sound. DO NOT CLEAN OR WASH the paper wheel itself.

  • Finnex PF-7 Nano Aquarium HOB Power Filter, 52 GPH,Clear Smoke
  • 52 GPH! Excellent for aquariums upto 7. 5 gallons
  • BIO, Mechanical, and Chemical Filtration in 1
  • Filter cartridge and pre filter sponge included
  • Flow Control Knob for smaller fish
  • Included Components: Filter, Bio Sponge, Carbon Cartridge, Pre Filter
  • Manufacture: Finnex
  • Product Dimensions: 4 x 5 x 5 inches; 15.2 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Finnex PF-7
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.8']
  • Quality [star rating='5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.8']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.5']

Finnex PF-7 Final Thoughts

"Huge capacity."

Not sure what I'll do with the more complex design. The instructions are a bit to much for me. The instructions are a bit to much for me. Overall, I'm very happy with this filter. It was perfectly quiet without any extra effort on my part. I have always used Marineland filters and been happy with them and their quality. I have always used Marineland filters and been happy with them and their quality.

Overall Score
4.7

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

2. Powkoo Aquairum Fish Tank Corner Sponge Filter Mini Sponge Filter,Tank Size: 10 Gallon

User Ratings: 74 4

Powkoo First Impressions

"One piece of advice."

I ordered 4 of these, for different tanks of course. Also price was very reasonable and shipping was fast. Once I found that, the world was right again. Replace activated carbon every 6-8 months ish. I contacted Marineland about my issue and they promptly sent me a new one right away! I stopped the pump and I pulled it apart. The filter arrived within 2 days and was the exact same as Petsmart's.

  • Powkoo Aquairum Fish Tank Corner Sponge Filter Mini Sponge Filter,Tank Size: 10 Gallon
  • 4-layer corner sponge filter -- provide excellent both mechanical and biological filtration, air powered, works great without noise, keep your fish tank crystal clear and clean【Fit fish tank size: 1 to 10 gallon】
  • High density porous 60ppi fine sponge, unique fan-shaped ribbing sponges, traps floating debris and fine particles, increase oxygen, provides ideal location for beneficial nitrifying bacteria to colonize
  • Easy to setup: connect the tube to the air pump and connect it to the filter, plug it in, it works, provide both aeration and filtration for your fish. Tips: squeeze out the air in the sponge when you put it underwater, then it will suck into water and keep down at the bottom
  • Easy to clean: simply rinse and squeeze sponge in used tank water, recommend to replace bio sponge every 6 months to ensure filtration effect and growth of nitrifying bacteria
  • Corner shape fits well in any corner, little sponge filter doesn't take up too much room, great bio sponge filter for betta tank, angelfish, fry, goldfish, baby fish, shrimp, small fish, breeding tank. can be used as pre-filtration unit by fitting to an external or a top filter
  • Manufacture: HJK
  • Product Dimensions: 3.15 x 2.17 x 4.72 inches; 2.88 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Powkoo
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.6']
  • Quality [star rating='3.8']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.2']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.6']

Powkoo Final Thoughts

"No effect."

You'll want to pull that water from the bottom. , that's what makes this so funny. I have 4 other AquaClear filters and like them. I have had no issues with it being to loud. I've looked at so many filters and reviews. Replace activated carbon every 6-8 months ish. Therefore, you wouldnt have 2 filters running.

Overall Score
4.5

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

3. 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

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

4. LiquaGen - Yearly Replacement RO/DI Water Filter Kit for 4 Stage Portable Space Saver Series (Inline...

User Ratings: 84

LiquaGen LG-SPC-YR First Impressions

"I love this filter."

I'm currently in the process of receiving another replacement on that model. I had to cut the hood to make it work. I returned the Aqua Clear 70 and promptly received a replacement. Really happy with the money I was able to save. The instructions are a bit to much for me. Worst case is that the motor could burn out. The Marineland penguin 350 is a great filter.

  • LiquaGen - Yearly Replacement RO/DI Water Filter Kit for 4 Stage Portable Space Saver Series (Inline Sediment, Inline Delotus Carbon, Inline DI)
  • Excellent replacement set for all portable-counter top reverse osmosis water filter systems.
  • Includes: 1) One Inline 5 Micron Sediment Filter. 2) Inline 5 Micron Carbon Filter 3) Inline Deionization
  • Filter Size: 2" x 10" with 1/4" inlets compatible to post portable RO/DI brands.
  • PHYSICAL PROPERTIES: Functional Structure Cation (Hydrogen form) RSO3-H+ Anion (Hydroxyl Form) R4N+OH- (Strong Base) Physical Form Tough, Spherical Beads Ionic Form H/OH Screen Size Distribution 90 percent -16 +45 (U.S. St.) Moisture Content (as shipped): 65 percent max. Maximum Operating Temperature Non-regenerable 80oC* (175oF) Regenerable 50oC (140oF) Operating Flow Rate 2 to 10 gpm/cu.ft. (typical) pH Range 0 - 14.
  • Manufacture: LiquaGen Water Technology
  • Editor's Impressions Of The LiquaGen LG-SPC-YR
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.8']
  • Quality [star rating='4.6']
  • Value For Money [star rating='5']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.3']

LiquaGen LG-SPC-YR Final Thoughts

"Canisters don't."

Overall, I like the 350's slim back design, and be able to add up to 4 cartridges. One thing I think is worth mentioning is the need to prime the filter. I AM IMPRESSED THAT IT WORKS AS IT ACTUALLY SHOULD! Also price was very reasonable and shipping was fast. A canister or in tank filter is ten times more work and messy. I have had no issues with it being to loud. I bought a top fin 55 gallon aquarium on sale.

Overall Score
4.8

[star rating="4.8"]
(27 Points)

5. Penn-Plax Cascade Hang-on Aquarium Filter with Quad Filtration System

User Ratings: 73 7

Penn-Plax CPF5 First Impressions

"SAME THING!"

Also the maker should review the pump design. I was using a Tetra in-tank filter previously. I've been researching so many things on how to take care of them. I liked the clean lined look and the pull out basket. I also like the fact that it is relatively low profile and discreet looking. Your fish and you will be much happier and stun everyone else. The filter arrived within 2 days and was the exact same as Petsmart's.

  • Penn-Plax Cascade Hang-on Aquarium Filter with Quad Filtration System
  • Hang on aquarium filter quietly delivers 300 gallons per hour of crystal clear water for your fresh or marine aquariums from 55 to 100 gallons in size.
  • Revolutionary Bio-Falls Quad-Filtration system provides efficient filtration with anaerobic bacteria for additional ammonia and nitrite removal providing maximum oxygenation.
  • Activated carbon cartridge removes harmful chemicals, toxins, odors, discoloration, and other contaminants for your aquarium.
  • Internal sponge optimizes colonization of beneficial anaerobic bacteria and polyfiber floss cartridge traps floating particulate matter.
  • Adjustable flow knob allows you to reduce filtration during feeding times or as needed. Aquarium filter is recommended for both freshwater and saltwater applications.
  • Manufacture: Monster Pets
  • Product Dimensions: 9 x 6.5 x 11 inches; 4 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Penn-Plax CPF5
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.3']
  • Quality [star rating='4.7']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.5']
  • Affordability [star rating='5']

Penn-Plax CPF5 Final Thoughts

"I was to tire to fix it."

Worst case is that the motor could burn out. LOW and BEHOLD, LMAO, I missed where you had to put water in the back of the filter. Replace activated carbon every 6-8 months ish. DO NOT CLEAN OR WASH the paper wheel itself. I AM IMPRESSED THAT IT WORKS AS IT ACTUALLY SHOULD! I decided to go with this filter since I had a positive experience previously. I was new to the hobby and didn't realize that Tetras were inferior filters.

Overall Score
4.4

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

6. AZOO Mignon Filter 60

User Ratings: 70 5

Azoo AZ13097 First Impressions

"Water crystal clear."

I wasn't able to fill my tank fully because there was little to no surface agitation. 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. I will pick 3-4 of these at one time over a single system any day. They are simply the best design for nitrifying bacteria to grow on. I also don't like how short the intake tube is. I used a small pair of pliers and carefully got the pebbles out.

  • AZOO Mignon Filter 60
  • Small compact design
  • Queit performance
  • Ease of maintenance
  • Manufacture: Sevenports, Inc
  • Product Dimensions: 3.25 x 3.75 x 6 inches; 1.6 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Azoo AZ13097
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.3']
  • Quality [star rating='4.4']
  • Value For Money [star rating='5']
  • Affordability [star rating='5']

Azoo AZ13097 Final Thoughts

"No need to unplug."

The lever on the bottom helps even the filter out. I returned the Aqua Clear 70 and promptly received a replacement. My old pump was not working very well so I had to make a major clean up. Clean the foam insert apparently it pulled a lot of dirt and needs cleaned. This is a well designed unit and a lot of bang for the buck. It doesn't rise up hugely above the tank like a lot of HOB filters. It wasn't producing much surface agitation.

Overall Score
4.4

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

7. Aqueon QuietFlow LED PRO Aquarium Power Filter 50

User Ratings: 66 10

Aqueon 100106117 First Impressions

"No worries there."

Just rinse them out once a month, don't throw that beneficial bacteria away. It's easy to clean and we all know about easy. The filter arrived within 2 days and was the exact same as Petsmart's. I can take apart a car engine and put it back together. DO NOT CLEAN OR WASH the paper wheel itself. I checked and cleaned it and still just as loud. I also like the fact that it is relatively low profile and discreet looking.

  • Aqueon QuietFlow LED PRO Aquarium Power Filter 50
  • 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
  • Lifetime warranty; Ideal for aquariums up to 50 gallons
  • Uses large Aqueon replacement cartridges
  • Manufacture: Central Garden & Pet
  • Product Dimensions: 8.4 x 7.9 x 4.1 inches; 2 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Aqueon 100106117
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.8']
  • Quality [star rating='4.7']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.2']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.7']

Aqueon 100106117 Final Thoughts

"It's priced awesome!"

This is not my first experience with a marineland filter. Doing research I learned that if I add more filter media, the noise will subside. I put it together, reading instructions of course. The filter stopped working all of a sudden. This one is working perfectly good FOR RIGHT NOW. This is not my first experience with a marineland filter. Basically, make sure everything that is suppose to spin, does so smoothly.

Overall Score
4.2

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

8. Pondmaster PMK1250 Pond Filter with 250gph Pump and Bonus Fountain Head (DNR02212)

User Ratings: 74 4

PONDMASTER DNR02212 First Impressions

"Turtle tank."

I bought a top fin 55 gallon aquarium on sale. My box came in good condition, parts where in tact and new. The current is strong but you can adjust it with the midsection lever. Overall, I'm very happy with this filter. The only thing you hear is the water and even that is a soothing sound. I plan to cycle this new AC 50 on a separate tank and then xfer it to the 20 gallon. I've think I've had had six of them.

  • Pondmaster PMK1250 Pond Filter with 250gph Pump and Bonus Fountain Head (DNR02212)
  • This Pondmaster Filtration System with Pump Fountain includes filter, bell style and adjustable fountain heads
  • Filtering media acts as effective biological and mechanical filters
  • The system can be used as the sole source of bio-mechanical filtration
  • The pump uses just 24 watts of electricity and is equipped with an 10 foot power cord
  • Provides an attractive fountain display in the pond
  • Includes a magnetic drive 250 gallon per hour (gph) pump and a length of tubing to connect pump and filter
  • Ponds up to 500 gallons with light fish population
  • In conjunction with an additonal external biological filter system in ponds with koi or heavier fish population
  • Manufacture: Pondmaster
  • Item Weight: 6 pounds
  • Product Dimensions: 12 x 12 x 3 inches
  • Editor's Impressions Of The PONDMASTER DNR02212
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.9']
  • Quality [star rating='4.9']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.5']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.6']

PONDMASTER DNR02212 Final Thoughts

"This filter is perfect!"

I sent a request for replacement and one came the next day. Overall I would recommend this item. They were great to deal with and the new filter is working great! Unlike my old HOB filter, it doesn't sound like a leaky toilet. My fish are definitely happier and my water is crystal clear. Get it and take heed to what I wrote. My old pump was not working very well so I had to make a major clean up.

Overall Score
4.5

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

9. Penn-Plax 325 Cascade Corner Filter

User Ratings: 61 10

Penn-Plax 07192 First Impressions

"Not my case!"

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! They are easily found from mom-n-pop pet stores to large chain stores. Fill it up with water before you plug it in. I have always used Marineland filters and been happy with them and their quality. I took it apart reassemble it and it's not pumping in the water. My old pump was not working very well so I had to make a major clean up.

  • Penn-Plax 325 Cascade Corner Filter
  • Space saving corner design
  • Fully submersible filter quietly delivers 85 gallons per hour of crystal clear water for your fresh or marine aquarium up to 10 gallons in size
  • Spray bar option allows you to distribute water evenly helping aerate your tank
  • Can be placed horizontally and is easily hidden
  • Manufacture: Penn Plax
  • Product Dimensions: 4 x 2 x 7 inches; 1 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Penn-Plax 07192
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.2']
  • Quality [star rating='5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.7']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.8']

Penn-Plax 07192 Final Thoughts

"AFTER 3 DAYS."

Works like a dream and can't even hear it! However, lately I've purchased the Aqua Clear 70 and 50. I had a lot of particles in the water. The filter arrived within 2 days and was the exact same as Petsmart's. Unlike my old HOB filter, it doesn't sound like a leaky toilet. Basically, make sure everything that is suppose to spin, does so smoothly. Marineland bio pumps have been around forever.

Overall Score
4.2

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

10. Powkoo Aquarium Filter Sponge Filter Media Fish Tank Shrimp Betta Fry Bio Filter with 2 Media Chambe...

User Ratings: 60 7

Powkoo First Impressions

"Disappointing."

I can hear it 3 rooms away grinding away. SO, I sat down and read EVERY little thing in rhe instructions. I will never buy any other HOB no matter what deal they might be offering. It doesn't rise up hugely above the tank like a lot of HOB filters. I've think I've had had six of them. I'm currently in the process of receiving another replacement on that model. I ordered 4 of these, for different tanks of course.

  • Powkoo Aquarium Filter Sponge Filter Media Fish Tank Shrimp Betta Fry Bio Filter with 2 Media Chambers
  • Sponge filters provide both mechanical and biological filtration - traps floating debris and protect your baby fish from being sucked up into the filter, aerobic bacteria colonize the sponge providing a bacterial substance to facilitate the nitrogen cycle
  • Double 7-layer ribbing shape sponges design, it quickly established a bio-filter and extra oxygen, high density porous 60ppi fine sponges means more surface area for beneficial bacterial to colonize and faster cycling, keep your fish tank crystal clear and clean
  • It has two media chambers with ceramic bio filter media inside of each, will help to remove harmful substance and increase oxygen level in your tank, you can replace the filter media to enhance water quality.
  • 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; Easy to clean: simply squeeze the sponges in tank water.
  • 【Fits fish tank size: 10 to 60 gallon】Easy to use: comes with 2 suction cups, can be installed anywhere and can be easily hidden on the back wall of the aquarium; suitable for shrimp tank, betta tank, breeder tanks, goldfish, discus, guppies, fry, baby fish or other fish.
  • Manufacture: Powkoo
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Powkoo
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.8']
  • Quality [star rating='4.9']
  • Value For Money [star rating='5']
  • Affordability [star rating='5']

Powkoo Final Thoughts

"It's priced awesome!"

Worst case is that the motor could burn out. This one is working perfectly good FOR RIGHT NOW. There is a sound from the water shooting into the tank! My old pump was not working very well so I had to make a major clean up. Works like a dream and can't even hear it! If that does not work, look into silicone grease so you can lube the impeller. Overall, I'm very happy with this filter.

Overall Score
4.2

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

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