Editor's Choice - Our Favorite SunGrow Aquarium Filters
1. 10-Gallon Betta Sponge Filter, Underwater Center Aquarium Filter, Works for Tropical Fish & Breeder ...
User Ratings: 53 17
SunGrow First Impressions
"Just a low hum."I have had no issues with it being to loud. Overall, I'm very happy with this filter. Never ever ever use it past a year. They are simply the best design for nitrifying bacteria to grow on. I'd highly recommend not replacing the bio material& sponge, ever. Firstly, I'd recommend taking the motor apart and putting it back together. It started out silent for about 30 mins and then it got super loud.
- 10-Gallon Betta Sponge Filter, Underwater Center Aquarium Filter, Works for Tropical Fish & Breeder Aquarium, Slow current, Perfect for Fry & Small Fish, Must-have for Aquarium Hobbyist
- REPLACE THE TRADITIONAL HOB, CANISTER FILTERS --- Gone are the days when you got to change the cartridges and filter media almost every week. The handy filter by SunGrow will do the same job economically and quickly.
- SPECIALLY DESIGNED FOR BETTA, FRY & OTHER SMALL AQUATIC PETS --- Betta, fry and other small fish will NEVER get stuck up into the filter. These fish, especially Betta, generally don’t like vigorous currents, they prefer calm and steady water. This filter is designed to have slow current to easily let betta, goldfish discus, dwarf cichlids, guppies, and krill fish, continue breeding and spawning comfortably.
- PROVIDE SUPPLEMENTAL FOOD FOR FRY --- The minor bubbles that are created by this sponge filter creates a nominal current, adding in bubbling water. This will encourage them to continue breeding and spawning comfortably. Also, the sponge filter makes a home for fish food supplementing their daily dose of diet or food intake.
- PERFECT FOR UP TO 10.5 GALLON TANK WHEN USED SINGLY --- It only requires an air pump and airline tubing (sold separately) to work. These create numerous minute bubbles for increased oxygen flow. Simply connect an air pump to the top-center of the filter, then place it in your tank. Please note, the base of this noiseless filter is not weighted, so you may need to weigh it down. It is suitable for tanks up to size 10.5 gallons. Use 2 or more filters in larger tanks.
- EASY TO WASH & REUSE --- This low-cost sponge filter can be used multiple times. Instead of tap water, use water from the tank to clean it, during a water change. Simply rinse and squeeze a few times, until you see the water run clear from the sponge.
- Manufacture: Luffy Pets Collection
- Editor's Impressions Of The SunGrow
- Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.9']
- Quality [star rating='4.1']
- Value For Money [star rating='4.1']
- Affordability [star rating='4.3']
SunGrow Final Thoughts
"So who knows."My old pump was not working very well so I had to make a major clean up. This filter really does a good job. Once I found that, the world was right again. The filter stopped working all of a sudden. There must be a huge batch of these units at Amazon right now that are bad. The instructions are a bit to much for me. I have the topfin 29 gallon tank and used the HOB filter it came with.
Overall Score
3.8
(285 Points)

Peoples Choice - Other Highly Rated SunGrow Aquarium Filters
2. SunGrow Sponge Betta Filter, 3x4 Inches, Multi-Layer Filtration System, Ultra Quiet Underwater Corne...
User Ratings: 57 6
SunGrow First Impressions
"And SILENCE."SO I decided to order this for my 29 gallon tank. My fish are definitely happier and my water is crystal clear. There must be a huge batch of these units at Amazon right now that are bad. , that's what makes this so funny. I was also having oxygen issues because of this. BUT after some YouTube research I was able to fix the noise issue. I can hear it 3 rooms away grinding away.
- SunGrow Sponge Betta Filter, 3x4 Inches, Multi-Layer Filtration System, Ultra Quiet Underwater Corner Filter, Excellent Oxygen Resource, Works in Tropical Fish and Shrimp Tanks
- ✔ GREAT RESOURCE FOR OXYGEN --- The highly effective Sponge Betta Filter from SunGrow helps keep your aquatic pets and plants healthy and thriving by creating oxygen bubbles in your aquarium water. Just like humans, plants and pets need oxygen to survive. Keeping the square corner filter in your tank ensures that they always have a sufficient supply.
- ✔ DROP OFF THE FEAR OF FISH OR FRY GETTING STUCK --- One internal multi-layered sponge filter works in any aquarium or fish tank up to 10 gallons. Additional sponge pads can be added to larger tanks. Unlike the traditional filters, the gentle, slow current keeps fry or small fish calm making it perfect for the betta, dwarf cichlids, guppies, shrimp, and fish breeding tanks or hatcheries, maternity, and fry tanks.
- ✔ MULTIPLE LAYERS OF REFINEMENT IN ONE --- With three distinct layers of refinement, the Square Sponge from SunGrow has triple the strength of a single layer filter. A white cotton pad is a top layer while a green sponge is the second and maifanite gravel makes up the third layer.
- ✔ HIGH-QUALITY, DURABLE MATERIALS --- The multi-layer corner filter is made of high-quality, durable materials. The high hardness plastic exterior houses an effective sponge filter, cotton filter and maifanite stone filter media.
- ✔ EASY TO INSTALL WITH LOW-MAINTENANCE --- The square 4.3” x 3” (11cm x 7.5cm) sponge betta filter is placed directly into your aquarium or fish tank and you need to simply connect it to your air pump via airline. It is recommended that you place this in one corner of the tank so as to maintain the aquarium aesthetics and fish and other creatures move unhindered. For its optimal performance, rinse the filter every 3-4 weeks and replace it in every 4-6 months (depending on your specific usage).
- Manufacture: MARIMO PET
- Editor's Impressions Of The SunGrow
- Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.9']
- Quality [star rating='3.2']
- Value For Money [star rating='3.7']
- Affordability [star rating='3.7']
SunGrow Final Thoughts
"I bought an FX6 in 2013."My old pump was not working very well so I had to make a major clean up. Fill up the media slot with water until it's full. I put it together, reading instructions of course. Lift the sticking wheel outuse a Q-tip to clean the slots where the wheel rests. The Aqua Clear is on the left and the Aqueon is on the right. I used to have a 37 gallon eclipse aquarium. Controlling the flow rate doesn't require modifying the filter.
Overall Score
4.0
(77 Points)

3. SunGrow Small Power Filter for Rimless Tanks, 100-240 V, 3-in-1 Filtration System, Hang On The Back,...
User Ratings: 42 19
SunGrow First Impressions
"This thing is a beast."It started out silent for about 30 mins and then it got super loud. I stopped the pump and I pulled it apart. I used a small pair of pliers and carefully got the pebbles out. Oscars are very messy fish, especially during feeding. Basically, make sure everything that is suppose to spin, does so smoothly. Fill up the media slot with water until it's full. It sounds like a Big Air pump buzzing.
- SunGrow Small Power Filter for Rimless Tanks, 100-240 V, 3-in-1 Filtration System, Hang On The Back, High-Performance Cotton Filter, Adjustable Flow Rate Up to 66 GPH, Energy-efficient, 1 Pack
- ✔IMPROVES WATER QUALITY BY REMOVING WATER IMPURITIES --- Small Power Filter by SunGrow provides excellent chemical, mechanical & biological filtration using multimedia mechanism. It removes decaying organic matter, excess food, unsafe chemicals, free-floating particulate, and fish’s waste products from the water.
- ✔WITH BIOCHEMICAL COTTON FILTER --- This hang on the back filter has sponge where water passes through its pores and can efficiently trap debris. Aerobic bacteria can also propagate in its pore’s large surface area. As the nitrifying bacteria cultivate, it naturally gives biological filtration in your tank.
- ✔PROMOTES BETTER WATER CIRCULATION --- This premium quality aquarium accessory prevents the build-up of ammonia and nitrates. It increases oxygen and helps ventilate the water, so your fish can breathe.
- ✔WITH ADJUSTABLE FLOW RATE --- Can be used for both fresh and sea water, this filter is engineered with flow adjustment function. The maximum flow rate is up to 250 L /H or 66 GPH.
- ✔ EASY SETUP --- First attach the intake tube and add the filter cartridge. Hang on the back of your rimless aquarium. Open the top lid of the filter to add water so the tubes below can suck in water. Plug it in to enjoy all the convenience and health benefits to your fish.
- Manufacture: Luffy Pets Collection
- Editor's Impressions Of The SunGrow
- Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.2']
- Quality [star rating='2.6']
- Value For Money [star rating='2.4']
- Affordability [star rating='3.9']
SunGrow Final Thoughts
"Just a low hum."I've think I've had had six of them. I had a lot of particles in the water. However, lately I've purchased the Aqua Clear 70 and 50. I will never buy any other HOB no matter what deal they might be offering. My box came in good condition, parts where in tact and new. Typically just below the flat part of the outlets. I use Marinelands refillable cartridge for extra carbon on the extra slots.
Overall Score
3.4
(43 Points)

4. SunGrow 6-Layer Betta Corner Sponge Filter, Underwater Corner Aquarium Filter, Works for Tropical Fi...
User Ratings: 63 9
SunGrow First Impressions
"Just a tip!"Now I'm having the same issue with the Aqua Clear 50. Oscars are very messy fish, especially during feeding. I bought a top fin 55 gallon aquarium on sale. The lever on the bottom helps even the filter out. I liked the clean lined look and the pull out basket. I used to have a 37 gallon eclipse aquarium. My fish are definitely happier and my water is crystal clear.
- SunGrow 6-Layer Betta Corner Sponge Filter, Underwater Corner Aquarium Filter, Works for Tropical Fish & Breeder Aquarium, Slow Current, Perfect for Fry & Small Fish, Must-Have for Aquarists
- ✔ REPLACE THE TRADITIONAL HOB, CANISTER FILTERS --- Gone are the days when you got to change the cartridges and filter media almost every week. The handy filter by SunGrow will do the same job economically and quickly. This is the easiest filtration method you’ll ever use.
- ✔ 6-LAYER CORNER SPONGE FILTER --- This sponge is triangular in shape to allow you to insert it neatly and discreetly into the corner of your aquarium. Your aquarium’s physical condition and aesthetics should be equally important. Slow water current protects the fish from getting sucked up through the filter. Therefore, it creates a perfect atmosphere for hatchery, ornamental fish breeding, maternity, and nursery tank.
- ✔ COTTON SPONGE FOR HAPPIER PETS ---- This sponge features fine filtration that will leave your aquarium water crystal clear, an excellent choice for an aquarium with small fish like dwarf cichlid, guppy, killifish, colorful gods. This sponge filter is also suitable for discus breeding tanks, small tropical fish tanks and fry stock tanks.
- ✔ EASY TO WASH & REUSE--- You can use the corner sponges for a good few months before needing to use replacement sponges. Use drained out aquarium water to rinse off the sponges. No tap water or hot water should be used
- ✔ REPLACEMENT SPONGE FILTER--- This corner sponge filter can be used with an existing betta filter or sponge filter in your aquarium. You can replace your old sponges with this brand new pack of 1 sponge filter.
- Manufacture: Luffy Pets Collection
- Editor's Impressions Of The SunGrow
- Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.6']
- Quality [star rating='3.5']
- Value For Money [star rating='3.8']
- Affordability [star rating='4.7']
SunGrow Final Thoughts
"Like brand new."The Marineland penguin 350 is a great filter. Overall I would recommend this item. Unlike my old HOB filter, it doesn't sound like a leaky toilet. This is a well designed unit and a lot of bang for the buck. I DONT KNOW WHY MANY THINK THIS IS A NOISY FILTER. I was also having oxygen issues because of this. The current is strong but you can adjust it with the midsection lever.
Overall Score
4.1
(25 Points)

Here Are Some Other Related Aquarium Filters
5. API FILSTAR XP Canister Filter Spare Parts Such as Canister Clips, Quick Disconnect, Gasket, impelle...
User Ratings: 74 7
API 720D First Impressions
"In one day crystal clear."The bacteria eats the nitrates in the water to help keep it clean. I DONT KNOW WHY MANY THINK THIS IS A NOISY FILTER. This filter has is a very simple and efficient design. Overall I would recommend this item. Basically, make sure everything that is suppose to spin, does so smoothly. You CAN rinse the old ones in an emergency. I was worried that it might be too much for my aquarium or that it would be loud.
- API FILSTAR XP Canister Filter Spare Parts Such as Canister Clips, Quick Disconnect, Gasket, impellers and More
- Contains one (1) API FILSTAR XP QUICK DISCONNECT Aquarium Canister Filter Spare Part 1-Count
- Replacement quick disconnect for API FILSTAR XP S, M, L, XL (or RENA FILSTAR xP1, xP2, xP3, and xP4) canister filters
- Includes one quick disconnect with O rings.
- Manufacture: Mars Fishcare Inc.
- Product Dimensions: 8.13 x 2.25 x 8 inches; 2.4 Ounces
- Editor's Impressions Of The API 720D
- Filter Effectiveness [star rating='5']
- Quality [star rating='3.7']
- Value For Money [star rating='4.4']
- Affordability [star rating='4.9']
API 720D Final Thoughts
"Like brand new."The filter stopped working all of a sudden. I plan to cycle this new AC 50 on a separate tank and then xfer it to the 20 gallon. I attempted to clean and lube the impeller, but to no avail. Overall, I like the 350's slim back design, and be able to add up to 4 cartridges. It wasn't producing much surface agitation. It wasn't producing much surface agitation. So, easy is good, both for us and our fish.
Overall Score
4.4
(758 Points)

6. Ocean Clear Replacement Cartridge for 325 Filter by Ocean Clear
User Ratings: 86
Ocean Clear First Impressions
"These are heavy."I ordered 4 of these, for different tanks of course. This filter comes with a sponge, activated carbon, and bio material in a mesh bag. SO I decided to order this for my 29 gallon tank. SO I decided to order this for my 29 gallon tank. I can take apart a car engine and put it back together. Controlling the flow rate doesn't require modifying the filter. I AM IMPRESSED THAT IT WORKS AS IT ACTUALLY SHOULD!
- Ocean Clear Replacement Cartridge for 325 Filter by Ocean Clear
- Manufacture: Ocean Clear
- Editor's Impressions Of The Ocean Clear
- Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.6']
- Quality [star rating='5']
- Value For Money [star rating='3.9']
- Affordability [star rating='5']
Ocean Clear Final Thoughts
"If anyone knows turtles."Lift the sticking wheel outuse a Q-tip to clean the slots where the wheel rests. Overall, I'm very happy with this filter. My old pump was not working very well so I had to make a major clean up. It doesn't rise up hugely above the tank like a lot of HOB filters. This is not my first experience with a marineland filter. I have had no issues with it being to loud. My old pump was not working very well so I had to make a major clean up.
Overall Score
4.9
(12 Points)

7. Lee's 40/55 Original Undergravel Filter, 12-Inch by 48-Inch
User Ratings: 54 9
Lee's 13240 First Impressions
"That also didn't work."I took it apart reassemble it and it's not pumping in the water. My box came in good condition, parts where in tact and new. The filter stopped working all of a sudden. However, lately I've purchased the Aqua Clear 70 and 50. Worst case is that the motor could burn out. My baby turtle even loves it so much he won't let go. I own 3 of these and besides my canister they are my favorite filters.
- Lee's 40/55 Original Undergravel Filter, 12-Inch by 48-Inch
- Made of special quality plastic which resists splitting and cracking
- Also has optional flow-thru set-up for use with a power head
- Size: 12-inch by 48-inch
- Manufacture: Lee's Pet Products
- Product Dimensions: 11.63 x 3.38 x 12.5 inches; 1 Pounds
- Editor's Impressions Of The Lee's 13240
- Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.4']
- Quality [star rating='4.5']
- Value For Money [star rating='4.7']
- Affordability [star rating='4.4']
Lee's 13240 Final Thoughts
"It just is."All in all, I highly recommend this filter and I'm a extremely happy customer! , that's what makes this so funny. There is a sound from the water shooting into the tank! I have had no issues with it being to loud. My old pump was not working very well so I had to make a major clean up. I was also having oxygen issues because of this. I decided to go with this filter since I had a positive experience previously.
Overall Score
4.1
(53 Points)

8. GMsound Bio Sponge Filter 20 or 40 Gal Breeding Fry Betta Shrimp Fish Tank Aquarium
User Ratings: 61 2
GMsound First Impressions
"SO THEREFORE."The only thing you hear is the water and even that is a soothing sound. I have contacted customer service to see if I can get a replacement unit. I had originally got one for my 75 Gallon tank housing an Oscar. It started out silent for about 30 mins and then it got super loud. I contacted Marineland about my issue and they promptly sent me a new one right away! The current is strong but you can adjust it with the midsection lever. I'm a mechanical engineer and understand design.
- GMsound Bio Sponge Filter 20 or 40 Gal Breeding Fry Betta Shrimp Fish Tank Aquarium
- 1) The sponge ftters are made of excellent and perfect material; it can be reused for long time.
- 2) The sponges of flter are designed by multilayer principle, it has large surface, which will not cause blockage and could be wash easily.
- 3) When using in fiter system, the sponge fiter will not cause any noise pollution.
- 4) When using air stone which will produce air supply tor the aquarium tank, it will increase oxygen level in the tank.
- 5) The sponge flter is suitable for all Freshwater fishes, like Discus, Tetras, Guppy, Arowana,Betta and Ete...
- Manufacture: GMsound
- Product Dimensions: 8.27 x 4.92 x 4.72 inches; 4.8 Ounces
- Editor's Impressions Of The GMsound
- Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.8']
- Quality [star rating='4']
- Value For Money [star rating='3.7']
- Affordability [star rating='3.4']
GMsound Final Thoughts
"It's heavy and awkward."In the afternoon the noises started again. I was new to the hobby and didn't realize that Tetras were inferior filters. A canister or in tank filter is ten times more work and messy. However, lately I've purchased the Aqua Clear 70 and 50. This one is working perfectly good FOR RIGHT NOW. MAKE SURE YOU PUT WATER IN THE BACK OF THE FILTER! I was also having oxygen issues because of this.
Overall Score
4.4
(70 Points)

9. Odyssea Clean 100 Surface Skimmer Aquarium Filter 450L Plant Internal
User Ratings: 51 12
Odyssea Clean 100 First Impressions
"I should loosen it up."I'm currently in the process of receiving another replacement on that model. The first night I had the pump going it started making a screeching sound. I was using a Tetra in-tank filter previously. I have 4 other AquaClear filters and like them. There must be a huge batch of these units at Amazon right now that are bad. Unlike my old HOB filter, it doesn't sound like a leaky toilet. I still have my original wheels on the year old 350 with no issues whatsoever.
- Odyssea Clean 100 Surface Skimmer Aquarium Filter 450L Plant Internal
- Flow rate: 110 GPH
- Energy efficient 5W pump
- Skims surface build-up to improve water quality
- Great for freshwater planted aquariums
- Works with both freshwater and marine
- Manufacture: Odyssea
- Product Dimensions: 9 x 7.5 x 2 inches; 12.7 Ounces
- Editor's Impressions Of The Odyssea Clean 100
- Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.1']
- Quality [star rating='4.4']
- Value For Money [star rating='4.6']
- Affordability [star rating='3']
Odyssea Clean 100 Final Thoughts
"This filter is perfect!"SO, I sat down and read EVERY little thing in rhe instructions. Not sure what I'll do with the more complex design. The bacteria eats the nitrates in the water to help keep it clean. This is a well designed unit and a lot of bang for the buck. My tank was a mess when I got this pump. I contacted Marineland about my issue and they promptly sent me a new one right away! Fill it up with water before you plug it in.
Overall Score
3.8
(526 Points)

10. Aqueon QuietFlow LED PRO Aquarium Power Filter 30
User Ratings: 70 5
Aqueon 100106082 First Impressions
"Great price."Therefore, you wouldnt have 2 filters running. I've been researching so many things on how to take care of them. A canister or in tank filter is ten times more work and messy. They were great to deal with and the new filter is working great! I still have my original wheels on the year old 350 with no issues whatsoever. I put it together, reading instructions of course. SO, I sat down and read EVERY little thing in rhe instructions.
- Aqueon QuietFlow LED PRO Aquarium Power Filter 30
- 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
- Uses large Aqueon replacement cartridges
- NOTE: You will receive the entire filter
- Manufacture: Central Garden & Pet
- Item Weight: 1.95 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 8.4 x 7.9 x 4.6 inches
- Batteries: 4 AAA batteries required. (included)
- Editor's Impressions Of The Aqueon 100106082
- Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.6']
- Quality [star rating='4.8']
- Value For Money [star rating='5']
- Affordability [star rating='4.7']
Aqueon 100106082 Final Thoughts
"Expensive."BUT after some YouTube research I was able to fix the noise issue. Months later, this filter is still working great on my 29 gal set up. Overall I would recommend this item. I have always used Marineland filters and been happy with them and their quality. This filter really does a good job. Now I'm having the same issue with the Aqua Clear 50. First they are simple and designed to pump and filter aquarium water.
Overall Score
4.4
(423 Points)
