Editor's Choice - Our Favorite UPETTOOLS Aquarium Filters
1. UPETTOOLS Aquarium Biochemical Sponge Filter, Ultra Quite Aquarium Air Pump Single Head Bio Sponge F...
User Ratings: 70 5
UPETTOOLS First Impressions
"It just starts right up."LOW and BEHOLD, LMAO, I missed where you had to put water in the back of the filter. There is a sound from the water shooting into the tank! Early on it seems to be working as advertised. Replace activated carbon every 6-8 months ish. The ability to regulate the flow solves the loud waterfall problem. BUT after some YouTube research I was able to fix the noise issue. A canister or in tank filter is ten times more work and messy.
- UPETTOOLS Aquarium Biochemical Sponge Filter, Ultra Quite Aquarium Air Pump Single Head Bio Sponge Fish Tank Foam Filter
- 【Multi-filtration Functions】Upettools sponge filter combines single scientific 7-layer ribbing shape sponge design, which can quickly established a bio-filter, improve purifying water quality, and the oxygen port can rotate 360 degrees without dead ends, keep your fish tank crystal clear and clean.
- 【Special Ceramic Bio Filter Media】Upettools aquarium sponge filters compatible with one container with ceramic bio filter media inside, which help to remove harmful substance and increase oxygen level in your tank, you can replace the filter media to enhance water quality.
- 【Removable Sponges 】 You can take down the sponge from the filter easily to clean or replace it. Sponge filters provide both mechanical and biological filtration, traps floating debris and protect your baby fish from being sucked up into the filter.
- 【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. Don't use tap water to clean it, simply squeeze the sponges in tank water.
- 【Max Suit for 55GAL Fish Tank】Compatible with 2 suction cups, can be installed anywhere and can be easily hidden on the back wall of the aquarium. Suitable for freshwater & saltwater and all kinds of ornamental fish breeding, breeding and fish formation, especially for colorful fairy, small fish,shrimp tank, betta tank etc.
- Manufacture: UPETTOOLS
- Product Dimensions: 2.36 x 6.3 x 9.06 inches; 1.1 Pounds
- Editor's Impressions Of The UPETTOOLS
- Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.9']
- Quality [star rating='4.8']
- Value For Money [star rating='4.8']
- Affordability [star rating='4.9']
UPETTOOLS Final Thoughts
"No issues."I want to answer some of the complaints I've read. Fill up the media slot with water until it's full. I will pick 3-4 of these at one time over a single system any day. Fill it up with water before you plug it in. I contacted Marineland about my issue and they promptly sent me a new one right away! I own 3 of these and besides my canister they are my favorite filters. Typically just below the flat part of the outlets.
Overall Score
4.4
(1003 Points)

Here Are Some Other Related Aquarium Filters
2. Mumusuki Fish Tank Accessory Protein Skimmer for Small Coral Aquarium Aquatic Pet Supplies 1Pc
Mumusuki First Impressions
"It's heavy and awkward."Never ever ever use it past a year. I was worried about some of the negative reviews. I liked the clean lined look and the pull out basket. First they are simple and designed to pump and filter aquarium water. I used to work as a marine biologist for a major state aquarium. Overall, I like the 350's slim back design, and be able to add up to 4 cartridges. It's easy to clean and we all know about easy.
- Mumusuki Fish Tank Accessory Protein Skimmer for Small Coral Aquarium Aquatic Pet Supplies 1Pc
- ◆◆ Made of high quality plastic material, solid and durable to use.
- ◆◆ Perfect for cleaning undesired protein colloid of fish tank, provide a fresh and healthy environment for fish to breathe.
- ◆◆ Easy to use, it should be equipped with a air pump, filter protein colloid, organic particles and other harmful heavy metal materials from the water, fast and effective.
- ◆◆ Two different size for choosing, suitable for most fish tank, convenient and practical.
- ◆◆ Helps improve exchange and keep your aquarium water clean and clear.
- Manufacture: Mumusuki
- Editor's Impressions Of The Mumusuki
- Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.5']
- Quality [star rating='5']
- Value For Money [star rating='5']
- Affordability [star rating='5']
Mumusuki Final Thoughts
"Not ideal but it works."The filter stopped working all of a sudden. Controlling the flow rate doesn't require modifying the filter. I sent a request for replacement and one came the next day. This is a good choice if you're tired of cleaning your turtle tank all the time. I'm a mechanical engineer and understand design. I will pick 3-4 of these at one time over a single system any day. I've think I've had had six of them.
Overall Score
5.0
(1 Points)

3. Marina Power Filter
User Ratings: 72 6
Marina A285 First Impressions
"I like the design."My tank was a mess when I got this pump. All in all, I highly recommend this filter and I'm a extremely happy customer! You do have to unplug it for those two jobs. The instructions are a bit to much for me. This is a well designed unit and a lot of bang for the buck. I was worried about some of the negative reviews. If that does not work, look into silicone grease so you can lube the impeller.
- Marina Power Filter
- Power filter for aquariums up to 10 gallons
- Self priming
- Easy to maintain
- Adjustable flow control
- Manufacture: Marina
- Product Dimensions: 3.7 x 7.3 x 6.5 inches; 1.23 Pounds
- Editor's Impressions Of The Marina A285
- Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.1']
- Quality [star rating='4']
- Value For Money [star rating='3.8']
- Affordability [star rating='4.2']
Marina A285 Final Thoughts
"I like the design."First they are simple and designed to pump and filter aquarium water. Fill it up with water before you plug it in. Now I'm having the same issue with the Aqua Clear 50. I have had no issues with it being to loud. , that's what makes this so funny. It started out silent for about 30 mins and then it got super loud. This filter comes with a sponge, activated carbon, and bio material in a mesh bag.
Overall Score
4.4
(1588 Points)

4. Polar Aurora 3-Stage External Canister Filter with 9-watt UV Sterilizer for Aquarium 265 GPH Builtin...
User Ratings: 66 11
Polar Aurora First Impressions
"- Plug it into power."I'm a mechanical engineer and understand design. Early on it seems to be working as advertised. A canister or in tank filter is ten times more work and messy. I attempted to clean and lube the impeller, but to no avail. It's only rated at 25 gph less, but holds considerably less media. I wasn't able to fill my tank fully because there was little to no surface agitation. DO NOT CLEAN OR WASH the paper wheel itself.
- Polar Aurora 3-Stage External Canister Filter with 9-watt UV Sterilizer for Aquarium 265 GPH 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
- Convenient self-priming pump that eliminates the need for manual siphoning; Single valve disconnect & priming pump ease routine maintenance
- Provides quiet, efficient filtration for fresh and saltwater aquariums is great for living rooms, offices or bedrooms
- 1x Input and Output Discreteness
- 1x Barrel Head
- 1x Main Canister Body
- 2x 5 feet lengths of flexible tubing
- 1x Draining Tray Cover
- Manufacture: rrx
- Editor's Impressions Of The Polar Aurora
- Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.4']
- Quality [star rating='4.9']
- Value For Money [star rating='4.3']
- Affordability [star rating='5']
Polar Aurora Final Thoughts
"Seriously."It doesn't rise up hugely above the tank like a lot of HOB filters. With the 350's inexpensive price point, you can’t go wrong with this powerful filter. I recently upgraded from a 10 gallon aquarium to a 29 gallon. I also don't like how short the intake tube is. Lightly clean the silver roller pins on the ends. This one is working perfectly good FOR RIGHT NOW. I have purchased several Aqua Clear filters over the years.
Overall Score
4.2
(116 Points)

5. 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']
Aqueon 100106079 Final Thoughts
"A very obvious waterfall."This new AQ50 filter has loose bio-media, i. This filter really does a good job. One thing I think is worth mentioning is the need to prime the filter. They are easily found from mom-n-pop pet stores to large chain stores. Overall I would recommend this item. I have 4 other AquaClear filters and like them. It's easy to clean and we all know about easy.
Overall Score
4.1
(887 Points)

6. Sicce Shark ADV Internal Filter, Freshwater and Saltwater Application, for submerged use
User Ratings: 70 3
Sicce SIC113 First Impressions
"It just is."Clean the foam insert apparently it pulled a lot of dirt and needs cleaned. The ability to regulate the flow solves the loud waterfall problem. Overall, I'm very happy with this filter. Really happy with the money I was able to save. I checked and cleaned it and still just as loud. Also the maker should review the pump design. I have purchased several Aqua Clear filters over the years.
- Sicce Shark ADV Internal Filter, Freshwater and Saltwater Application, for submerged use
- Uses the venturi system to provide improved oxygenation
- The Package Height Of The Product Is 15 Inches
- The Package Length Of The Product Is 5 Inches
- The Package Width Of The Product Is 10 Inches
- Manufacture: Sicce
- Product Dimensions: 5 x 10 x 15 inches; 13.92 Ounces
- Editor's Impressions Of The Sicce SIC113
- Filter Effectiveness [star rating='5']
- Quality [star rating='4.8']
- Value For Money [star rating='4.5']
- Affordability [star rating='5']
Sicce SIC113 Final Thoughts
"Turtle tank."The Aqua Clear is on the left and the Aqueon is on the right. Basically, make sure everything that is suppose to spin, does so smoothly. What I don't like is how much smaller it is than the Aqueon. Firstly, I'd recommend taking the motor apart and putting it back together. The instructions are a bit to much for me. You can't really tell though, and the filter is working great. Works like a dream and can't even hear it!
Overall Score
4.4
(105 Points)

7. Powkoo Aquarium Fish Tank Mini Sponge Filter Air Driven Bio Sponge Pre-Filter
User Ratings: 70 4
Powkoo First Impressions
"I'd recommend it."I'm currently in the process of receiving another replacement on that model. Worst case is that the motor could burn out. I have always used Marineland filters and been happy with them and their quality. Worst case is that the motor could burn out. Once I found that, the world was right again. Once it loses its charge, you'll need to replace it. The filter stopped working all of a sudden.
- Powkoo Aquarium Fish Tank Mini Sponge Filter Air Driven Bio Sponge Pre-Filter
- Air powered sponge filter, provides excellent both mechanical and biological filtration, excellent for freshwater and saltwater.
- Easy to setup, simply connect the airline tube to the air pump and connect it to air inlet in the lift tube, both filtration and aeration in one solution, keeps water well oxygenated
- The sponge is high density porous 60ppi fine sponge, increase oxygen, provides ideal location for bacterial colonization, keep your fish tank crystal clear and clean
- Easy to clean: simply take out the sponge, rinse and squeeze it in tank water, washable and reusable; 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
- 【Fits fish tank size:1 to 5 gallon】Little filter, easy to hide behind plants and decorations, perfect for shrimp tanks, fry tank, goldfish, baby fish, betta or breeder aquariums.
- Manufacture: Powkoo
- Product Dimensions: 3.54 x 1.97 x 1.97 inches; 2.08 Ounces
- Editor's Impressions Of The Powkoo
- Filter Effectiveness [star rating='5']
- Quality [star rating='4.3']
- Value For Money [star rating='3.9']
- Affordability [star rating='4']
Powkoo Final Thoughts
"In one day crystal clear."Lift the sticking wheel outuse a Q-tip to clean the slots where the wheel rests. However, lately I've purchased the Aqua Clear 70 and 50. Also price was very reasonable and shipping was fast. I took it apart reassemble it and it's not pumping in the water. I attempted to clean and lube the impeller, but to no avail. Fill it up with water before you plug it in. I used to work as a marine biologist for a major state aquarium.
Overall Score
4.5
(30 Points)

8. Lefunpets Aquarium Filter Media, Fish Tank Sponge Filter Fluidized Moving Bed Filter Bubble Bio Medi...
User Ratings: 51 12
Lefunpets First Impressions
"Oh my fishies its SILENT."Overall I would recommend this item. Marineland bio pumps have been around forever. Lightly clean the silver roller pins on the ends. SO, I sat down and read EVERY little thing in rhe instructions. I have the topfin 29 gallon tank and used the HOB filter it came with. I AM IMPRESSED THAT IT WORKS AS IT ACTUALLY SHOULD! I own 3 of these and besides my canister they are my favorite filters.
- Lefunpets Aquarium Filter Media, Fish Tank Sponge Filter Fluidized Moving Bed Filter Bubble Bio Media with Air Stone and Sponge Filter Inside for Aquarium Fish Tank
- 【Special Design V-1 Filter Media】Built-in new V-1 biochemical filter material, come with 4 strong powerful suction cups, ensure stability, easy to hang membrane.
- 【Self Cleaning Fish Tank Filter】Adding a filtering sponge at the bottom to intercept large particles of dirt, high efficiency oxygen supply and is delicate and quiet, it’s a great way to clean and oxygenate your tanks.
- 【Easy To Operate】Simply install an air tubing and hook up to an air pump, which getting all the benefits of oxygen in the water and a super charged bio filter.
- 【Removable Sponges】You can take down the sponge from the filter easily to clean or replace it. Sponge filters provide both mechanical and biological filtration, traps floating debris and protect your baby fish from being sucked up into the filter.
- 【Up To 20 Gal Fish Tank】This Fluidized Bed Filter fits for both fresh and saltwater tank, perfect to be used for all types of tanks with capacity of 5-20 Gal.
- Manufacture: Lefunpets
- Product Dimensions: 3.5 x 2.8 x 7.9 inches; 7.04 Ounces
- Editor's Impressions Of The Lefunpets
- Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4']
- Quality [star rating='3.3']
- Value For Money [star rating='4']
- Affordability [star rating='3.7']
Lefunpets Final Thoughts
"Best to you all!"I had originally got one for my 75 Gallon tank housing an Oscar. Works like a dream and can't even hear it! Therefore, you wouldnt have 2 filters running. I checked and cleaned it and still just as loud. First they are simple and designed to pump and filter aquarium water. It was perfectly quiet without any extra effort on my part. It doesn't rise up hugely above the tank like a lot of HOB filters.
Overall Score
3.8
(30 Points)

9. 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)

10. Aqueon 100534682 QuietFlow Internal Shrimp Filter for Freshwater Aquariums up to 20 Gallons, Size 20...
User Ratings: 65 9
Aqueon 100534682 First Impressions
"Not ideal but it works."Overall, I like the 350's slim back design, and be able to add up to 4 cartridges. Following morning it was running quietly. Works like a dream and can't even hear it! Firstly, I'd recommend taking the motor apart and putting it back together. You do have to unplug it for those two jobs. I was worried about some of the negative reviews. I used a small pair of pliers and carefully got the pebbles out.
- Aqueon 100534682 QuietFlow Internal Shrimp Filter for Freshwater Aquariums up to 20 Gallons, Size 20, Black
- Internal filter for freshwater tanks up to 20 gallons
- Intake grid and pre-filter sponge protect shrimp and small fish
- Preloaded with a replaceable carbon cartridge for chemical filtration
- Comes with hooks and suction cups for use with either traditional or frameless aquariums
- Aqueon QuietFlow Internal Shrimp Filter is recommended for small freshwater tanks containing ghost, amaro, cherry, crystal and bee, or bamboo shrimp
- Included Components: All Items As Per Description, Age Range Description: All Life Stages
- Manufacture: AQUEON
- Product Dimensions: 5.5 x 4.5 x 8 inches; 1.25 Pounds
- Editor's Impressions Of The Aqueon 100534682
- Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.8']
- Quality [star rating='3.7']
- Value For Money [star rating='3.5']
- Affordability [star rating='4.8']
Aqueon 100534682 Final Thoughts
"Very pleased!"That water got so dirty we had to keep changing it every 2 or 3 days. Basically, make sure everything that is suppose to spin, does so smoothly. I was worried that it might be too much for my aquarium or that it would be loud. I had to lower the surface by 3 inches to get sufficient agitation. I DONT KNOW WHY MANY THINK THIS IS A NOISY FILTER. My tank was a mess when I got this pump. I stopped the pump and I pulled it apart.
Overall Score
4.1
(10 Points)
