Editor's Choice - Our Favorite NO.17 Aquarium Filters
1. 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']
NO.17 Final Thoughts
"Try it you wont be sorry."The Marineland penguin 350 is a great filter. Never ever ever use it past a year. The filter stopped working all of a sudden. Also price was very reasonable and shipping was fast. I have purchased several Aqua Clear filters over the years. I was worried about some of the negative reviews. I plan to cycle this new AC 50 on a separate tank and then xfer it to the 20 gallon.
Overall Score
4.1
(1222 Points)
PRICE AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
Here Are Some Other Related Aquarium Filters
2. Thanger Submersible Water Pump with Filters 15 Watt, Fountain Pump 400 Gallons per Hour Aquarium Air...
User Ratings: 56 7
Thanger First Impressions
"Hopefully it lasts."BUT after some YouTube research I was able to fix the noise issue. Once I found that, the world was right again. Replace activated carbon every 6-8 months ish. I used a small pair of pliers and carefully got the pebbles out. The only thing you hear is the water and even that is a soothing sound. This is not my first experience with a marineland filter. I ordered 4 of these, for different tanks of course.
- Thanger Submersible Water Pump with Filters 15 Watt, Fountain Pump 400 Gallons per Hour Aquarium Air Pump, Underwater Cleaner Oxygen Charging Wave Maker for Fish Turtle Tanks, Ponds, Pool, Waterfall
- ULTRA QUIET DESIGN & PERFECT MOTOR - The reliable and duarable copper wire motor does not produce much noise, giving you quiet environment. It can elevate column of water up to 5.25ft ( 1.6 meters)
- TWO FILTER NETS & EASY TO CLEAN - The pump has two filter nets, which can effectively filter large blocks during pumping to prevent blockage, and effectively improve the circulation system to maintain a clean water environment. No need any tools to detach it, easy to seperate, easy to clean.
- MULTIPLE WATER NOZZLES & ADJUSTABLE FLOW RATE - Equipped with two water nozzles (1.3cm/1.6cm) and one boost oxygen nozzle along with boost hose. The adjustable knob allows to adjust the water flow rate, and the maximal flow rate can be up to 400GPH(1500L/H).
- STRONG SUCTION CUP & 1.6M POWER CORD - There are four strong suction cup at the bottom of the small pump that fits well on a horizontal or vertical glass surface to keep the pump running smoothly. The power cord is 1.6 meters, which is long enough for installation depending on your needs.
- WIDE APPLICATIONS - The filter water pump has a wide range of applications that it can be used in aquariums, ecological tanks, breeding ponds, landscape tubes, gardens, rockery fountains, etc.
- 0.51 inches / 1.3cm water nozzle
- 0.63 inches / 1.6cm water nozzle
- Boost oxygen water nozzle
- Manufacture: Thanger
- Editor's Impressions Of The Thanger
- Filter Effectiveness [star rating='5']
- Quality [star rating='3.6']
- Value For Money [star rating='4.8']
- Affordability [star rating='4.1']
Thanger Final Thoughts
"Disappointing."I'm currently in the process of receiving another replacement on that model. Once it loses its charge, you'll need to replace it. Overall, I'm very happy with this filter. I still have my original wheels on the year old 350 with no issues whatsoever. I had to lower the surface by 3 inches to get sufficient agitation. I have always used Marineland filters and been happy with them and their quality. I used a small pair of pliers and carefully got the pebbles out.
Overall Score
4.1
(111 Points)
PRICE AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
3. Polar Aurora Free Media 4-Stage External Canister Filter with 9-watt Light, 525 GPH with Free Media
User Ratings: 73 7
Polar Aurora First Impressions
"Came on time."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. I can take apart a car engine and put it back together. I had to lower the surface by 3 inches to get sufficient agitation. The first night I had the pump going it started making a screeching sound. My tank was a mess when I got this pump. I have contacted customer service to see if I can get a replacement unit.
- Polar Aurora Free Media 4-Stage External Canister Filter with 9-watt Light, 525 GPH with Free Media
- Good for up to 200 gallon fish tanks. Maximum flow rate of 525GPH from built in pump
- 4 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
- Convenient self-priming pump that eliminates the need for manual siphoning; Single valve disconnect & priming pump ease routine maintenance
- Built in 9 Watt Light for promoting clear water. With free media.
- The four flexible media trays allow you to add other filtration media such as SunSun's activated carbons, ceramic rings or bio-balls to achieve excellent mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration.
- 4 stages of filtration
- 9w UV powered
- 110-120V 50-60Hz
- Manufacture: Polar Aurora
- Product Dimensions: 12 x 12 x 19 inches; 19.6 Pounds
- Editor's Impressions Of The Polar Aurora
- Filter Effectiveness [star rating='5']
- Quality [star rating='5']
- Value For Money [star rating='3.9']
- Affordability [star rating='4.6']
Polar Aurora Final Thoughts
"All around great product."The current is strong but you can adjust it with the midsection lever. I use Marinelands refillable cartridge for extra carbon on the extra slots. MAKE SURE YOU PUT WATER IN THE BACK OF THE FILTER! The first night I had the pump going it started making a screeching sound. I also don't like how short the intake tube is. Once it loses its charge, you'll need to replace it. I thought that U had put it together wrong so I took it all apart and started over.
Overall Score
4.4
(676 Points)
PRICE AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
4. 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
(511 Points)
PRICE AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
5. Biohome Plus Filter Media
User Ratings: 73 2
Biohome First Impressions
"If anyone knows turtles."Fill it up with water before you plug it in. The Aqua Clear is on the left and the Aqueon is on the right. You do have to unplug it for those two jobs. The bacteria eats the nitrates in the water to help keep it clean. However, lately I've purchased the Aqua Clear 70 and 50. SO I decided to order this for my 29 gallon tank. My baby turtle even loves it so much he won't let go.
- Biohome Plus Filter Media
- Avoid Delay, choose ship buy Aqualexs Not Amazon Prime -1 Pound - (recommended 2-4 lb for 30 gallon or larger)
- ONE OF THE BEST FILTER MEDIA ON THE MARKETS
- Promotes odorless and clear water
- Small sized media, great for canister, HOB and sump filters
- Fast control ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate
- Manufacture: Biohome
- Editor's Impressions Of The Biohome
- Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.9']
- Quality [star rating='5']
- Value For Money [star rating='3.5']
- Affordability [star rating='4']
Biohome Final Thoughts
"In one day crystal clear."The Marineland penguin 350 is a great filter. This filter really does a good job. It's easy to clean and we all know about easy. My box came in good condition, parts where in tact and new. Typically just below the flat part of the outlets. I've been researching so many things on how to take care of them. This filter comes with a sponge, activated carbon, and bio material in a mesh bag.
Overall Score
4.5
(69 Points)
PRICE AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
6. Bicaquu Automatic Filter for Vacuum Cleaner, Filter for Aquarium, Universal for Aquarium
Bicaquu First Impressions
"Just buy it!"I've think I've had had six of them. It started out silent for about 30 mins and then it got super loud. All in all, I highly recommend this filter and I'm a extremely happy customer! SO I decided to order this for my 29 gallon tank. It doesn't rise up hugely above the tank like a lot of HOB filters. I stopped the pump and I pulled it apart. They are easily found from mom-n-pop pet stores to large chain stores.
- Bicaquu Automatic Filter for Vacuum Cleaner, Filter for Aquarium, Universal for Aquarium
- Easy to use: You just need to connect to the discharging air pipe, put in water and open the air pump to clean the fish tank dirt. (Air pump is not included).
- Made from premium plastic material, which is safe, solid and durable to use.
- Built in replaceable filter tank and special strong bioactive beads, It can achieve better the physical filtration effect and provide space for the nitrifying bacteria to attach.
- Multifunctional: oxygen aeration, enhanced the filtering effect of organism and improve the stability of water quality of aquarium
- Humanized cover design, prevent from leakage meanwhile absorb the dirty objects.
- Manufacture: Bicaquu
- Editor's Impressions Of The Bicaquu
- Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.7']
- Quality [star rating='4.8']
- Value For Money [star rating='5']
- Affordability [star rating='4.4']
Bicaquu Final Thoughts
"Like brand new."The ability to regulate the flow solves the loud waterfall problem. I was also having oxygen issues because of this. I'd highly recommend not replacing the bio material& sponge, ever. The only thing you hear is the water and even that is a soothing sound. , that's what makes this so funny. My old pump was not working very well so I had to make a major clean up. You CAN rinse the old ones in an emergency.
Overall Score
5.0
(1 Points)
PRICE AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
7. YCTECH 10-50 Gallon Aquarium Fish Tank Hang Filter with Surface Skimmer 3 Stage Water Skim Filter Pu...
User Ratings: 52 13
YCTECH First Impressions
"This thing is a beast."I also like the fact that it is relatively low profile and discreet looking. There is a sound from the water shooting into the tank! I have the topfin 29 gallon tank and used the HOB filter it came with. It's only rated at 25 gph less, but holds considerably less media. They were great to deal with and the new filter is working great! As for performance, I couldn't ask for a better filter. They can be very noisy at the impeller, which sometimes quiets in time, but may not.
- YCTECH 10-50 Gallon Aquarium Fish Tank Hang Filter with Surface Skimmer 3 Stage Water Skim Filter Pump 211 GPH Adjustable Flow Filter
- ★ Practical: Advanced 3 step filtration Biological and mechanical filtration. Box includes active carbon and bio media Accumulator for oil slick, remove surface films effectively
- ★ Adjustable: lengthened water inlet pipe, the length adjustable range is between 3-16 inch, which is suitable for aquarium with different heights.and the filter boxes can be taken out separately, which is easier to clean
- ★ Quiet: You can adjust the amount of water flow at will. With the water outlet design, it is very quiet and won't affect the quality of sleep even if the fish tank is in the bedroom
- ★Application: Can be used in aquariums, fish tank and turtle tanks for 20-50 gallon filters system
- ★ Backed by 12 month warranty and 24 hrs professional after-sale service
- Manufacture: YCTECH
- Product Dimensions: 6.3 x 4.9 x 4.4 inches; 3.15 Pounds
- Editor's Impressions Of The YCTECH
- Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.3']
- Quality [star rating='4.8']
- Value For Money [star rating='4']
- Affordability [star rating='4.5']
YCTECH Final Thoughts
"And it is so quiet."The filter arrived within 2 days and was the exact same as Petsmart's. I recently upgraded from a 10 gallon aquarium to a 29 gallon. Overall, I like the 350's slim back design, and be able to add up to 4 cartridges. MAKE SURE YOU PUT WATER IN THE BACK OF THE FILTER! A canister or in tank filter is ten times more work and messy. It wasn't producing much surface agitation. I was also having oxygen issues because of this.
Overall Score
3.8
(156 Points)
PRICE AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
8. Penn-Plax Cascade Canister Filter Replacement Strainer (for Models 700-1500) Cascade Canister Filter...
User Ratings: 91
Penn-Plax First Impressions
"Came on time."Overall I would recommend this item. Worst case is that the motor could burn out. I will pick 3-4 of these at one time over a single system any day. All in all, I highly recommend this filter and I'm a extremely happy customer! However, lately I've purchased the Aqua Clear 70 and 50. It's only rated at 25 gph less, but holds considerably less media. I recently upgraded from a 10 gallon aquarium to a 29 gallon.
- Penn-Plax Cascade Canister Filter Replacement Strainer (for Models 700-1500) Cascade Canister Filter Replacement Directional Spout
- Penn-Plax Cascade Canister Filter Replacement Directional Spout.
- Penn-Plax part # CCF209.
- Penn-Plax Cascade Canister Filter Replacement Strainer.
- Penn-Plax part # CCF208.
- Manufacture: Penn-Plax
- Editor's Impressions Of The Penn-Plax
- Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.5']
- Quality [star rating='4.2']
- Value For Money [star rating='5']
- Affordability [star rating='5']
Penn-Plax Final Thoughts
"Not my case!"I also like the fact that it is relatively low profile and discreet looking. They are simply the best design for nitrifying bacteria to grow on. I can hear it 3 rooms away grinding away. The first night I had the pump going it started making a screeching sound. I have the topfin 29 gallon tank and used the HOB filter it came with. My tank was a mess when I got this pump. It wasn't producing much surface agitation.
Overall Score
4.7
(18 Points)
PRICE AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
9. Hydor Prime External Canister Filter for Aquariums & Turtles
User Ratings: 54 28
Hydor C01122 First Impressions
"Canisters don't."My box came in good condition, parts where in tact and new. This lives up to the praise that people give it. You do have to unplug it for those two jobs. They can be very noisy at the impeller, which sometimes quiets in time, but may not. My tank was a mess when I got this pump. Once I found that, the world was right again. My fish are definitely happier and my water is crystal clear.
- Hydor Prime External Canister Filter for Aquariums & Turtles
- COMPLETE ECOSYSTEM IN A BOX: This external filter for aquariums offers maximum performance and high filtration standards, not to mention an entire eco-system in a box
- SIMPLE TO USE: The long-life ceramic shaft, large filter volume and safety locks make the Prime External Canister Filter easy to use as a beginner or a long-term hobbyist. The space-saving unit is perfect for small to large aquariums
- FILTER OPTIONS: Prime External Canister Filters always contain coarse sponge for mechanical filtration, fine white floss pad for water polishing and Sintered Quartz BIO-Rings for superior biological filtration
- SPECIALIZED SERVICE: With more than 30 years of experience offering high-quality products for the passionate marine aquarist, Hydor is dedicated to manufacturing unique and innovative items in the field of aquarium technology
- PREMIUM VERSATILITY: This Prime External Canister is ideal for both freshwater and saltwater aquariums, turtles and amphibians. It is simple to prime and offers the versatility you need
- Manufacture: Hydor
- Editor's Impressions Of The Hydor C01122
- Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.7']
- Quality [star rating='3.7']
- Value For Money [star rating='3.6']
- Affordability [star rating='4.6']
Hydor C01122 Final Thoughts
"- Plug it into power."I stopped the pump and I pulled it apart. I own 3 of these and besides my canister they are my favorite filters. Now I'm having the same issue with the Aqua Clear 50. It doesn't rise up hugely above the tank like a lot of HOB filters. You do have to unplug it for those two jobs. Your fish and you will be much happier and stun everyone else. It doesn't rise up hugely above the tank like a lot of HOB filters.
Overall Score
3.7
(7 Points)
PRICE AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
10. hygger Aquarium Double Sponge Filter, Comes with 2 Spare Sponges, 1 Bag of Bio Ceramic Media Balls, ...
User Ratings: 74 3
hygger First Impressions
"Great product."Overall I would recommend this item. I liked the clean lined look and the pull out basket. This new AQ50 filter has loose bio-media, i. I want to answer some of the complaints I've read. Months later, this filter is still working great on my 29 gal set up. My tank was a mess when I got this pump. I stopped the pump and I pulled it apart.
- hygger Aquarium Double Sponge Filter, Comes with 2 Spare Sponges, 1 Bag of Bio Ceramic Media Balls, Quiet Submersible Foam Filter for Fresh Water and Salt-Water Fish Tank
- 【Multi-filtration functions】this sponge aquarium filter combines bio-filtration, oxygenation and physical filtration in one and also makes small water flow, which can ensure the excellence of the water quality. Helps your small fish or shrimp to live a happy, healthy life
- 【Filter Demension】plus the sponge filter with media balls takes up no more room. Small filter is 6" in width and 9" to 13." in height, the sponge inside circle diameter is 0.39 inch, suggest for 10 to 40 gallon fish tank. Medium filter is 6.3" in width and 9' to 13 in height, the sponge inside circle diameter is 0.59 inch, suggest for 15 to 55 gallon fish tank. For larger tank you may need 2 of this filter
- 【Package Includes】1 double sponge filter with 2 containers +1 bag of ceramic media balls + 2 pare sponges (packed in the 2 containers). This aquarium filter must be used with an air pupm and a standard size 4mm air hose, please note pump and air hose are not included. Please choose a powerful enough air pump according to your fish tank size for this filter
- 【Removable Fine Sponges 】you can easy to take down the 2 sponges from the filter to clean or replace it, the 2 sponges are fine 60ppi not coarse, which means more surface area for beneficial bacteri to live on. Don't use tap water to clean it, just rinse or squeeze the sponges by using the aquarium water
- 【Easy to use】all the parts of this filter are detachable, you can easily to assemble them together, with 2 strong suction cups you can stick the filter firmly to any tank position under water, withouting floating. The water oulet tube can be extended and rotated, you can adjust the outlet to above or below the waterline
- With 2 strong suction cups to keep the filter stay in place.
- Filter parts are detachable, easy to install (image 5 show the steps).
- Comes with a bag of ceramic media balls.
- Manufacture: hygger
- Product Dimensions: 6.3 x 2.1 x 9 inches; 13.62 Ounces
- Editor's Impressions Of The hygger
- Filter Effectiveness [star rating='5']
- Quality [star rating='4.8']
- Value For Money [star rating='3.5']
- Affordability [star rating='4.8']
hygger Final Thoughts
"Its AMAZING."I have always used Marineland filters and been happy with them and their quality. I wasn't able to fill my tank fully because there was little to no surface agitation. It was perfectly quiet without any extra effort on my part. Lightly clean the silver roller pins on the ends. I've looked at so many filters and reviews. Really happy with the money I was able to save. I was worried that it might be too much for my aquarium or that it would be loud.
Overall Score
4.5
(1272 Points)
PRICE AVAILABLE ON AMAZON