Editor's Choice - Our Favorite Imagitarium Aquarium Filters

1. Imagitarium Undergravel Filter, 10 Gallon

User Ratings: 65 7

Imagitarium First Impressions

"Its AMAZING."

SO I decided to order this for my 29 gallon tank. You do have to unplug it for those two jobs. I had to cut the hood to make it work. I'm a mechanical engineer and understand design. I contacted Marineland about my issue and they promptly sent me a new one right away! Once I found that, the world was right again. I sent a request for replacement and one came the next day.

  • Imagitarium Undergravel Filter, 10 Gallon
  • Works freshwater and saltwater tanks
  • Compatible with 10-gallon size tanks
  • Two filter cartridges included
  • Compatible with Penn Plax Filt-a-Carb replacements filters
  • Compatible with Penn Plax Ammonia-X replacement filter
  • Manufacture: Imagitarium
  • Item Weight: 8.8 ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Imagitarium
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.4']
  • Quality [star rating='5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.5']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.5']

Imagitarium Final Thoughts

"And it is so quiet."

Worst case is that the motor could burn out. This filter comes with a sponge, activated carbon, and bio material in a mesh bag. It's only rated at 25 gph less, but holds considerably less media. Months later, this filter is still working great on my 29 gal set up. Oscars are very messy fish, especially during feeding. Once I found that, the world was right again. One thing I think is worth mentioning is the need to prime the filter.

Overall Score
4.3

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

Peoples Choice - Other Highly Rated Imagitarium Aquarium Filters

2. Imagitarium Replacement F Filter Rectagular Sponges, Pack of 2

User Ratings: 79

Imagitarium First Impressions

"Expensive."

I used to have a 37 gallon eclipse aquarium. I will pick 3-4 of these at one time over a single system any day. I was worried that it might be too much for my aquarium or that it would be loud. It wasn't producing much surface agitation. I was worried about some of the negative reviews. Just rinse them out once a month, don't throw that beneficial bacteria away. BUT after some YouTube research I was able to fix the noise issue.

  • Imagitarium Replacement F Filter Rectagular Sponges, Pack of 2
  • Replacement Filter Sponges from Imagitarium
  • Use with Imagitarium aquariums and filters compatible with Replacement F Filter Rectangular Sponges
  • Helps remove impurities from water
  • Simple to use and install
  • Manufacture: Imagitarium
  • Item Weight: 0.915 ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Imagitarium
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.1']
  • Quality [star rating='4.5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.8']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.9']

Imagitarium Final Thoughts

"5 minutes."

The lever on the bottom helps even the filter out. Early on it seems to be working as advertised. My box came in good condition, parts where in tact and new. I've been researching so many things on how to take care of them. I use Marinelands refillable cartridge for extra carbon on the extra slots. All in all, I highly recommend this filter and I'm a extremely happy customer! Once I found that, the world was right again.

Overall Score
4.7

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

3. Aquarium Fish Tank External Canister Filter with Pump Table Mute Filters Bucket HW-602

User Ratings: 42 22

Fdit First Impressions

"This is the one."

This is a well designed unit and a lot of bang for the buck. Works like a dream and can't even hear it! I've been researching so many things on how to take care of them. Works like a dream and can't even hear it! BUT after some YouTube research I was able to fix the noise issue. I DONT KNOW WHY MANY THINK THIS IS A NOISY FILTER. A canister or in tank filter is ten times more work and messy.

  • Aquarium Fish Tank External Canister Filter with Pump Table Mute Filters Bucket HW-602
  • ★HIGH QUALITY:Made of high quality plastic material, non-toxic and harmless, wear resistant and durable.
  • ★MULTIPLE FUNCTIONS:It can filter impurities in fish tanks, remove the excreta and keep water clean. Provide adequate oxygen, no hazardous substances, no pollution, suitable for the growth of fish.
  • ★SAVE ENERGY:High efficiency, energy-saving, large flow, low noise, strong seal(no leaks).
  • ★VALVE DESIGN:Inlet switch valve design, can adjust the flow. Ideal for small and medium sized fish tank. HW-602B fit for less then 0.4m fish tank, HW-603B fit for less then 0.6m fish tank
  • ★EASY TO INSTALL:Suitable for fresh water, seawater aquarium and seaweed tank use,easy to install.
  • 1 * External Canister Filter(HW-602:NOT INCLUDE the pump and accessory)
  • 3 * Connectors
  • 2 * Pipes
  • Manufacture: Fdit
  • Product Dimensions: 6.69 x 6.69 x 11.81 inches; 1.06 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Fdit
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.5']
  • Quality [star rating='2.7']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.2']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.9']

Fdit Final Thoughts

"With no parts left over!"

I want to answer some of the complaints I've read. My tank was a mess when I got this pump. I was worried about some of the negative reviews. I recently upgraded from a 10 gallon aquarium to a 29 gallon. It was perfectly quiet without any extra effort on my part. I plan to cycle this new AC 50 on a separate tank and then xfer it to the 20 gallon. Also the maker should review the pump design.

Overall Score
3.5

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

4. NEWKOSEA Aquarium Air Filter Double Sponge Filter Bio Filter Sponge Betta Breeder Shrimp Fish Fry Ta...

User Ratings: 73 4

NEWKOSEA First Impressions

"Works great."

I own 3 of these and besides my canister they are my favorite filters. It sounds like a Big Air pump buzzing. There must be a huge batch of these units at Amazon right now that are bad. It started out silent for about 30 mins and then it got super loud. I decided to go with this filter since I had a positive experience previously. Overall, I'm very happy with this filter. This filter really does a good job.

  • NEWKOSEA Aquarium Air Filter Double Sponge Filter Bio Filter Sponge Betta Breeder Shrimp Fish Fry Tank
  • Sponge filters provide both mechanical and biological filtration - traps floating debris and fine particles, keep baby fish from be sucked into the filter, provides the ideal location for bacterial colonization, suitable for freshwater and saltwater, the sponges are fine 60ppi very porous
  • Double 10-layer ribbing shape sponges design, two 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
  • Air driven sponge filter, works quietly without noise, air-water outlet is adjustable so you can change direction and height of the water flow, you can also put it at the top of aquarium or in the bottom, additionally you can add small-size bio-media to the inside for extra cleaning power
  • Easy to 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, great way to clean and oxygenate your tanks; Easy to clean: just slide off the filters, simply rinse and squeeze the sponges in used aquarium water, recommend to clean the sponges once a month
  • 【Fits fish tank size: 20 to 40 gallon】Comes with 2 suction cups to stick to glass, can be installed anywhere,it can also be used as a prefilter or secondary filter; perfect for shrimp tank, betta tank, breeder tanks, turtle tank, goldfish, discus, crayfish, fry, baby fish or other fish.
  • Manufacture: NEWKOSEA
  • Editor's Impressions Of The NEWKOSEA
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.7']
  • Quality [star rating='4.9']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4']
  • Affordability [star rating='5']

NEWKOSEA Final Thoughts

"So far so good!"

They are simply the best design for nitrifying bacteria to grow on. SO I decided to order this for my 29 gallon tank. My baby turtle even loves it so much he won't let go. I have purchased several Aqua Clear filters over the years. Fill it up with water before you plug it in. I can hear it 3 rooms away grinding away. SO, I sat down and read EVERY little thing in rhe instructions.

Overall Score
4.5

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

5. 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

[star rating="5"]
(4 Points)

6. MarineLand Penguin 100 Power Filter, 100 GPH (PF0100B),Black

User Ratings: 76 4

MarineLand PF0350B First Impressions

"A very obvious waterfall."

Months later, this filter is still working great on my 29 gal set up. , that's what makes this so funny. I had originally got one for my 75 Gallon tank housing an Oscar. They can be very noisy at the impeller, which sometimes quiets in time, but may not. I have 4 other AquaClear filters and like them. Clean the foam insert apparently it pulled a lot of dirt and needs cleaned. Once I found that, the world was right again.

  • MarineLand Penguin 100 Power Filter, 100 GPH (PF0100B),Black
  • WITH ROTATING BIO-WHEEL: Patented Bio-Wheel technology provides excellent wet/dry biological filtration.
  • MULTI-STAGE FILTRATION: Delivers mechanical, chemical and biological aquarium filtration to maintain a clean aquatic environment.
  • COMPATIBILITY: Use with Marineland Rite-Size Filter Cartridges (see individual filter for sizing recommendations).
  • FIVE SIZES: Available in 75 GPH, 100 GPH, 150 GPH, 200 GPH and 350 GPH sizes.
  • age range description: All Life Stages
  • Manufacture: Marineland
  • Item Weight: 3.52 pounds
  • Product Dimensions: 15.25 x 6.12 x 8 inches
  • Editor's Impressions Of The MarineLand PF0350B
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.1']
  • Quality [star rating='4.7']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.8']
  • Affordability [star rating='5']

MarineLand PF0350B Final Thoughts

"Since then no problems."

The Marineland penguin 350 is a great filter. Therefore, you wouldnt have 2 filters running. I took it apart reassemble it and it's not pumping in the water. In the afternoon the noises started again. The ability to regulate the flow solves the loud waterfall problem. Of course the sound all depends on how much water is in the aquarium. Early on it seems to be working as advertised.

Overall Score
4.5

[star rating="4.5"]
(9274 Points)

7. 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)

8. BACTO-SURGE HIGH DENSITY FOAM FILTER (2-Pack)

User Ratings: 81 2

Pay It Forward Pet Supply First Impressions

"Seriously."

I had a lot of particles in the water. Marineland bio pumps have been around forever. I decided to go with this filter since I had a positive experience previously. So, easy is good, both for us and our fish. It was perfectly quiet without any extra effort on my part. I returned the Aqua Clear 70 and promptly received a replacement. , that's what makes this so funny.

  • BACTO-SURGE HIGH DENSITY FOAM FILTER (2-Pack)
  • BACTO-SURGE HIGH DENSITY FOAM FILTER
  • Manufacture: Pay It Forward Pet Supply
  • Part Number: 4334824305
  • Item Weight: 1.39 pounds
  • Product Dimensions: 5 x 5 x 6 inches
  • Size: 2 Pack
  • Color: Original version
  • Batteries Included?: No
  • Batteries Required?: No
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Pay It Forward Pet Supply
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.1']
  • Quality [star rating='5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.1']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.7']

Pay It Forward Pet Supply Final Thoughts

"Please read!"

Clean the foam insert apparently it pulled a lot of dirt and needs cleaned. The current is strong but you can adjust it with the midsection lever. You do have to unplug it for those two jobs. The bacteria eats the nitrates in the water to help keep it clean. I thought that U had put it together wrong so I took it all apart and started over. I used a small pair of pliers and carefully got the pebbles out. What I don't like is how much smaller it is than the Aqueon.

Overall Score
4.7

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

9. Saim Aquarium Mini Filter Activated Carbon Fish Tank Pneumatic Filter with 6.56 Feet Airline Tubing ...

User Ratings: 58

Saim B0000000123 First Impressions

"No issues."

I thought that U had put it together wrong so I took it all apart and started over. This new AQ50 filter has loose bio-media, i. I had to lower the surface by 3 inches to get sufficient agitation. , that's what makes this so funny. I AM IMPRESSED THAT IT WORKS AS IT ACTUALLY SHOULD! It doesn't rise up hugely above the tank like a lot of HOB filters. They were great to deal with and the new filter is working great!

  • Saim Aquarium Mini Filter Activated Carbon Fish Tank Pneumatic Filter with 6.56 Feet Airline Tubing 1 Pcs
  • Triple filtration system: Cotton filters, quartz stand and high-performance activated carbon.
  • Suitable for small fish tank and aquarium, and needs to be used with air pump (Pump not included)
  • Mini filter can improve water oxygen level, create a healthy environment for your fish to grow.
  • Fix design of suckers, easy to install, convenient and practical. it can replace the filter material, keep the water clean.
  • Package Include: 1x filter, 1x2 meter airline tubing (6.56feet)
  • Manufacture: Saim
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Saim B0000000123
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.8']
  • Quality [star rating='5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.5']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.6']

Saim B0000000123 Final Thoughts

"If anyone knows turtles."

, that's what makes this so funny. I bought a top fin 55 gallon aquarium on sale. I'm a mechanical engineer and understand design. It was perfectly quiet without any extra effort on my part. I can hear it 3 rooms away grinding away. I recently upgraded from a 10 gallon aquarium to a 29 gallon. I thought that U had put it together wrong so I took it all apart and started over.

Overall Score
4.6

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

10. Polar Aurora 3-Stage External Aquarium Filter 265gph with Builtin Pump Kit Canister

User Ratings: 63 9

Polar Aurora First Impressions

"A very obvious waterfall."

The lever on the bottom helps even the filter out. One thing I think is worth mentioning is the need to prime the filter. I liked the clean lined look and the pull out basket. I used to work as a marine biologist for a major state aquarium. You CAN rinse the old ones in an emergency. I liked the clean lined look and the pull out basket. I ordered 4 of these, for different tanks of course.

  • Polar Aurora 3-Stage External Aquarium Filter 265gph with Builtin Pump Kit Canister
  • 3 media trays capable of handling your choice of filtration media; Comes with an adjustable spray bar. This is a helpful feature if you want to adjust the output flow from the filter. No Light in the package!
  • This Aquarium Filter is good for up to 75 gallon fish tanks, can be applied Flow rate: 264 GPH (1000L/hr) Pump Power: 18W Hose size: 3/4" Max-H: 4.6 feet.
  • Canister filters for aquariums use high water pressure, from a properly powered pump, to force water through the dense filter media. A pump can draw water from an under-gravel filter, and run it into a canister for double filtration.
  • Convenient self-priming pump that eliminates the need for manual siphoning; Single valve disconnect & priming pump ease routine maintenance.
  • The 3 flexible media trays allow you to add other filtration media to achieve excellent mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration.
  • (1) Input and Output Discreteness
  • (1) Barrel Head
  • (1) Main Canister Body
  • Manufacture: Polar Aurora
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Polar Aurora
  • Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4']
  • Quality [star rating='3.9']
  • Value For Money [star rating='5']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.4']

Polar Aurora Final Thoughts

"So far so good!"

Your fish and you will be much happier and stun everyone else. I use Marinelands refillable cartridge for extra carbon on the extra slots. I'd highly recommend not replacing the bio material& sponge, ever. All in all, I highly recommend this filter and I'm a extremely happy customer! The only thing you hear is the water and even that is a soothing sound. This filter has is a very simple and efficient design. It sounds like a Big Air pump buzzing.

Overall Score
4.3

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

Copyright © 2024 Rob Aquatics — Primer Child WordPress theme by GoDaddy