Editor's Choice - Our Favorite Internal Aquarium Filters

1. Tetra Whisper Internal Filter 3 to 10 Gallons, for Aquariums, in-Tank Filtration with Air Pump, Blac...

User Ratings: 70 6

Tetra AQ-78056 First Impressions

"And SILENCE."

If that does not work, look into silicone grease so you can lube the impeller. Get it and take heed to what I wrote. However, lately I've purchased the Aqua Clear 70 and 50. Overall I would recommend this item. This filter has is a very simple and efficient design. It was perfectly quiet without any extra effort on my part. I eyedball everything and put it together with a look back at instructions.

• Tetra Whisper Internal Filter 3 to 10 Gallons, for Aquariums, in-Tank Filtration with Air Pump, Blacks & Grays (25816)
• FOR 4 GALLON aquariumS: This Whisper Internal Power Filter uses small filter cartridges and adjusts easily to high or low water levels.
• 27 GPH PUMP: The internal 27 GPH pump cycles a 4 gallon aquarium more than 6 times per hour.
• TWO FILTERS IN ONE: Cartridge floss catches debris and fish waste, while Ultra-Activated carbon removes odors and discoloration.
• SPACE-SAVING DESIGN: Your aquarium can be flush to the wall with the internal filter designed to clip on your tank wall and be hidden by décor.
• EVERYTHING YOU NEED IS INCLUDED: This pack contains the hinged lid, tank clip, internal filter and filter cartridge.
• Manufacture: Spectrum Brands Pet LLC
• Product Dimensions: 3 x 3 x 7.38 inches; 8.78 Ounces

• Editor's Impressions Of The Tetra AQ-78056
• Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.7']
• Quality [star rating='5']
• Value For Money [star rating='4.6']
• Affordability [star rating='5']

Peoples Choice - Other Highly Rated Internal Aquarium Filters

2. Aqueon Quietflow E Internal Power Filter

User Ratings: 60 10

Aqueon 100106991 First Impressions

"Huge capacity."

I AM IMPRESSED THAT IT WORKS AS IT ACTUALLY SHOULD! The first night I had the pump going it started making a screeching sound. You do have to unplug it for those two jobs. Once I found that, the world was right again. I had to lower the surface by 3 inches to get sufficient agitation. I was worried about some of the negative reviews. One thing I think is worth mentioning is the need to prime the filter.

• Aqueon Quietflow E Internal Power Filter
• Economical vertical-oriented internal filter that efficiently cleans and filters aquarium water
• Provides chemical, biological and mechanical filtration
• Auto-start pump requires no priming, automatically restarts if power is interrupted and restored
• Easy to install using suction cups and/or hanging clips
• Limited Lifetime Warranty
• Manufacture: Central Garden & Pet
• Product Dimensions: 2.25 x 4.5 x 6.5 inches; 12 Ounces

• Editor's Impressions Of The Aqueon 100106991
• Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.5']
• Quality [star rating='3.8']
• Value For Money [star rating='4.2']
• Affordability [star rating='3.9']

3. AA Aquarium Green Killing Machine 9 Watt | Internal UV Sterilizer System with Power Head | Kills Alg...

User Ratings: 76 7

AA Aquarium AAUV9W First Impressions

"All around great product."

I also like the fact that it is relatively low profile and discreet looking. The Aqua Clear is on the left and the Aqueon is on the right. Get it and take heed to what I wrote. They can be very noisy at the impeller, which sometimes quiets in time, but may not. I have contacted customer service to see if I can get a replacement unit. With the 350's inexpensive price point, you can’t go wrong with this powerful filter. I will pick 3-4 of these at one time over a single system any day.

• AA Aquarium Green Killing Machine 9 Watt | Internal UV Sterilizer System with Power Head | Kills Algae, Bacteria, and Waterborne Pathogens | Easy, Submersible Installation
• Say GOODBYE to GREEN and HELLO to CLEAN. AA Aquarium’s Green Killing Machine eliminates cloudiness, algae & bacteria to give your fish the crystal clear water they need for perfect health!
• The #1 UV in the US – over ½ Million sold. Patented technology that no one else has and the ONLY UL Safety Tested internal UV kit – Be safe with your tank and fish!
• Patented Sealed UV BULB - you never touch glass! Chambered bulb assembly for high water dwell time and outstanding efficacy! No gloves-No mess-EZ bulb changes!
• NO TOOLS REQUIRED! 10 minute installation - Follow simple steps to get clear water in days. No Guessing – Control Box LED tells you when to change bulbs!
• 3 Year Warranty on Pump; 4 pcs sponge pre-filter; Pump rated 220L/Hour. Perfect for aquariums up to 50 Gallons (210 L). UL/cUL Listed
• Manufacture: AA AQUARIUM
• Product Dimensions: 3.3 x 3.7 x 11 inches; 2 Pounds

• Editor's Impressions Of The AA Aquarium AAUV9W
• Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.2']
• Quality [star rating='4.8']
• Value For Money [star rating='4.1']
• Affordability [star rating='4.8']

4. MarineLand Magnum Polishing Internal Canister Filter, For aquariums Up To 97 Gallons, 10.5 IN (ML907...

User Ratings: 66 8

MarineLand ML90770-00 First Impressions

"It's priced awesome!"

I have the topfin 29 gallon tank and used the HOB filter it came with. 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. This new AQ50 filter has loose bio-media, i. Now I'm having the same issue with the Aqua Clear 50. MAKE SURE YOU PUT WATER IN THE BACK OF THE FILTER! The only thing you hear is the water and even that is a soothing sound.

• MarineLand Magnum Polishing Internal Canister Filter, For aquariums Up To 97 Gallons, 10.5 IN (ML90770-00)
• INTERNAL CANISTER FILTER: Submerged motor for quick and easy startup.
• VERSATILE FILTRATION: Two refillable chambers house carbon or customizable filter media.
• MICRON WATER POLISHING: High-efficiency polishing with the micron cartridge (included).
• FOR aquariumS UP TO 97 GALLONS: Capable of filtering 290 gallons of water per hour.
• Included Components: Marineland Magnum Polishing Internal Canister Filer (Ml90770)
• Manufacture: Tetra
• Item Weight: 3 pounds
• Product Dimensions: 8.5 x 5.81 x 11 inches

• Editor's Impressions Of The MarineLand ML90770-00
• Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.7']
• Quality [star rating='4.2']
• Value For Money [star rating='3.3']
• Affordability [star rating='5']

Honorable Mentions - More Top Selling Internal Aquarium Filters

5. Aqueon QuietFlow LED PRO Aquarium Power Filter 10

User Ratings: 68 7

Aqueon 100106080 First Impressions

"Thats whats☝ up!"

Doing research I learned that if I add more filter media, the noise will subside. I also don't like how short the intake tube is. A canister or in tank filter is ten times more work and messy. All in all, I highly recommend this filter and I'm a extremely happy customer! I had to lower the surface by 3 inches to get sufficient agitation. This filter really does a good job. I thought that U had put it together wrong so I took it all apart and started over.

• Aqueon QuietFlow LED PRO Aquarium Power Filter 10
• 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 20 gallons
• Uses medium Aqueon replacement cartridges
• Manufacture: Central Garden & Pet
• Item Weight: 1.2 pounds
• Product Dimensions: 6.4 x 6.3 x 3.8 inches

• Editor's Impressions Of The Aqueon 100106080
• Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.7']
• Quality [star rating='3.7']
• Value For Money [star rating='4.5']
• Affordability [star rating='3.8']

6. NO.17 Submersible Aquarium Internal Filter, Adjustable Fish Tank Filter with Water Pump for Fish Tan...

User Ratings: 61 8

NO.17 First Impressions

"That also didn't work."

This new AQ50 filter has loose bio-media, i. My old pump was not working very well so I had to make a major clean up. I was worried that it might be too much for my aquarium or that it would be loud. All in all, I highly recommend this filter and I'm a extremely happy customer! I own 3 of these and besides my canister they are my favorite filters. I'm a mechanical engineer and understand design. First they are simple and designed to pump and filter aquarium water.

• NO.17 Submersible Aquarium Internal Filter, Adjustable Fish Tank Filter with Water Pump for Fish Tank
• [8W AQUARIUM FILTER]: This Fish Tank Internal Filter is a system that create a clean and fresh living environment for your lovely fish. 8 watt is perfect for 10-50 gallon large aquariums.
• [ADJUSTABLE 200 GPH WATER PUMP]: Max Flow Rate: 200 GPH(800L/H), Max Lift height: up to 3.28 Feet.(Length of power cord:1.6M=5.25ft). This water pump is designed for reliability and ultra-quiet operation, and you have a key to adjust the flow rate.
• [2NOZZLE, 2 MODEL]: In this package, there have 2 nozzle, you could choose 2 nozzle to clean and fresh your aquarium.
• [MULTIPLE FILTER MEDIA]: The filter with multiple filter media for all filtration purposes. Your lovely fish or turtle will have a clean and fresh environment for living.
• [WARRANTY]: All products purchased from our company are guaranteed to keep in good repair for 180 days.If quality problems happen in guaranteed period, our company will maintain for free.
• Manufacture: NO.17

• Editor's Impressions Of The NO.17
• Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.1']
• Quality [star rating='4.7']
• Value For Money [star rating='4.5']
• Affordability [star rating='4.4']

7. Aqueon Quietflow Internal Power Filter

User Ratings: 56 12

Aqueon 100106970 First Impressions

"Best to you all!"

You can't really tell though, and the filter is working great. Really happy with the money I was able to save. I also don't like how short the intake tube is. I contacted Marineland about my issue and they promptly sent me a new one right away! I returned the Aqua Clear 70 and promptly received a replacement. This lives up to the praise that people give it. I ordered 4 of these, for different tanks of course.

• Aqueon Quietflow Internal Power Filter
• Fully submersible in vertical or horizontal position
• Adjustable return flow rate
• Direction and height of water return is also adjustable
• Three stage filtration: dense foam for particles and debris, activated carbon for toxins, odors and discoloration and patented BioGrid for ammonia and nitrates
• Uses Aqueon Replacement Internal Filter Cartridges
• Adjustable direction and height of return
• AT10 is recommended for 10 gallon tanks, flow rate is 57 GPH and uses 1 small replacement cartridge
• Limited lifetime warranty
• Manufacture: Central Garden & Pet
• Product Dimensions: 2.75 x 1.5 x 5.38 inches; 9.6 Ounces

• Editor's Impressions Of The Aqueon 100106970
• Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.4']
• Quality [star rating='3.5']
• Value For Money [star rating='4.3']
• Affordability [star rating='3']

8. Aqueon QuietFlow LED PRO Aquarium Power Filter 75

User Ratings: 60 11

Aqueon 100106079 First Impressions

"In one day crystal clear."

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. I've been researching so many things on how to take care of them. This filter really does a good job. Controlling the flow rate doesn't require modifying the filter. The Marineland penguin 350 is a great filter. Clean the foam insert apparently it pulled a lot of dirt and needs cleaned.

• Aqueon QuietFlow LED PRO Aquarium Power Filter 75
• Certified flow rates that assure proper water circulation for improved fish health
• High flow rates for optimal dissolved oxygen content to promote healthier, more active fish
• Provides mechanical, chemical, biological and optional, additional specialty pad filtration
• Self-priming filter pump will auto-start initially or restart if power is interrupted and restored
• Internal pump design helps dampen noise and eliminate leaks with self-priming feature
• LED indicator light flashes when water cannot pass through the cartridge, generally indicating it's time to change the cartridge
• Uses Two Large Aqueon Replacement Cartridges and Size 20/75 Specialty Filter Pad
• LED indicator light flashes when it's time to change the cartridge
• Manufacture: Aqueon
• Product Dimensions: 12.9 x 8.4 x 6.6 inches; 3.8 Pounds

• Editor's Impressions Of The Aqueon 100106079
• Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.7']
• Quality [star rating='3.8']
• Value For Money [star rating='4.7']
• Affordability [star rating='3.8']

9. 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']

10. Zilla Internal Filter for Aquactic Reptiles, 40 Gals

User Ratings: 70 6

Zilla 100528849 First Impressions

"This thing is a beast."

It was perfectly quiet without any extra effort on my part. They can be very noisy at the impeller, which sometimes quiets in time, but may not. That water got so dirty we had to keep changing it every 2 or 3 days. The current is strong but you can adjust it with the midsection lever. I stopped the pump and I pulled it apart. I wasn't able to fill my tank fully because there was little to no surface agitation. I can hear it 3 rooms away grinding away.

• Zilla Internal Filter for Aquactic Reptiles, 40 Gals
• For aquatic turtle terrariums up to 40 gallons
• It works hard to keep terrariums clean
• Includes suction cups and hanging clips that make installation quick and easy
• A protective grate is in place to prevent the your Turtle from accidentally entering the filter
• Each filter comes with a replaceable carbon cartridge that removes odor, waste, and debris from water
• Medium carbon cartridge included
• Protective grate prevents animal from entering the filter
• Patented power filtration
• Manufacture: Central Garden & Pet
• Item Weight: 2.79 pounds
• Product Dimensions: 6.5 x 6 x 11.25 inches

• Editor's Impressions Of The Zilla 100528849
• Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.5']
• Quality [star rating='3.8']
• Value For Money [star rating='3.8']
• Affordability [star rating='5']