Editor's Choice - Our Favorite Zilla Aquarium Filters

1. 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']

Here Are Some Other Related Aquarium Filters

2. Fluval 107 Perfomance Canister Filter

User Ratings: 72 8

Fluval A440 First Impressions

"Not ideal but it works."

It wasn't producing much surface agitation. It wasn't producing much surface agitation. Unlike my old HOB filter, it doesn't sound like a leaky toilet. All in all, I highly recommend this filter and I'm a extremely happy customer! I'd highly recommend not replacing the bio material& sponge, ever. Overall I would recommend this item. Your fish and you will be much happier and stun everyone else.

• Fluval 107 Perfomance Canister Filter
• Ergonomic design and raised lip for smoother operation
• Single action dual locking clamps for quick release & attachment
• New center handle allows Main media stack to be removed
• Redesigned system – requires less pumps to engage
• The all-new 07 series marks the 7th incarnation in nearly 4 decades of fluval’s top selling canister Filter family Worldwide. Not only does the latest generation incorporate the power and reliability you’ve come to expect from the leader in aquatic filtration, but it also features several new performance upgrades that make it up to 25% quieter and more robust, energy-efficient, flexible and easier to use than ever before
• Manufacture: Hagen
• Item Weight: 2.2 pounds
• Product Dimensions: 0.39 x 0.39 x 0.39 inches

• Editor's Impressions Of The Fluval A440
• Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.6']
• Quality [star rating='3.9']
• Value For Money [star rating='3.8']
• Affordability [star rating='3.9']

3. Whisper IQ Power Filter for Aquariums, With Quiet Technology

User Ratings: 69 5

Tetra 78003 First Impressions

"Its AMAZING."

I returned the Aqua Clear 70 and promptly received a replacement. It wasn't producing much surface agitation. Basically, make sure everything that is suppose to spin, does so smoothly. My tank is nice and clear and my fish are much happier. LOW and BEHOLD, LMAO, I missed where you had to put water in the back of the filter. I have 4 other AquaClear filters and like them. Clean the foam insert apparently it pulled a lot of dirt and needs cleaned.

• Whisper IQ Power Filter for Aquariums, With Quiet Technology
• QUIET aquarium FILTER: The Tetra Whisper IQ Power Filter with Stay Clean technology contains a sound shield for quiet filtration less than 40 dB.
• SELF PRIMING: Submerged motor starts up with no priming required.
• STAY CLEAN TECHNOLOGY: By maintaining healthy pH levels, creates easier maintenance for healthier fish.
• CARTRIDGE REFILLS: Change cartridges monthly; uses large-sized Tetra Whisper Bio-Bag Filter Cartridges (refills sold separately).
• Manufacture: Tetra
• Product Dimensions: 7 x 6.25 x 8.75 inches; 2 Pounds

• Editor's Impressions Of The Tetra 78003
• Filter Effectiveness [star rating='5']
• Quality [star rating='4.9']
• Value For Money [star rating='3.8']
• Affordability [star rating='3.7']

4. Aquarium Turtle Filter Waterfall Flow Water Clean Pump Bio-Filtration for Reptiles Tank Low Level Wa...

User Ratings: 55 13

JackSuper First Impressions

"MINE IS VERY QUIET."

I want to answer some of the complaints I've read. In the afternoon the noises started again. I bought a top fin 55 gallon aquarium on sale. I've think I've had had six of them. You do have to unplug it for those two jobs. The Marineland penguin 350 is a great filter. I have contacted customer service to see if I can get a replacement unit.

• Aquarium Turtle Filter Waterfall Flow Water Clean Pump Bio-Filtration for Reptiles Tank Low Level Waterfall Filter for Small Fish Tank Turtle Tank Shrimp Tank Amphibian Frog Crab
• We have the 90 days replacement and the refund service. All the emails will be replied within 24 hours. We have lifetime technique support, please feel free to contact us for any quality problem. We will do our best to help you.
• Perfect Aquarium filter for aquatic turtle tanks, Reptiles, Amphibians, Frog, Cichlids, Newt or Fish tank in any aquarium up to 40 gallons
• Easy to install,Water filter pump can be hung on the aquarium or fixed with sucker. Low water level capability(Lowest water level 1.6inch/4cm)
• Water circulation and cleaning:this turtle filter helps water cycling,the Activated carbon cartridges and bio ball help clean water,absorbs odors and discoloration,provide a healthy water for your aquarium
• High performance, the motor set under the water,more quiet than external filter,you can creat a waterfall with rock inside the fish tank
• Filter waste and stop the waste go into power head
• Protect your filter power head and prevent small fish or animal suck in the filter.
• absorbs odors and discoloration
• Manufacture: JackSupermall
• Product Dimensions: 8.27 x 3.66 x 2.76 inches; 14.39 Ounces

• Editor's Impressions Of The JackSuper
• Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.9']
• Quality [star rating='3.5']
• Value For Money [star rating='3.2']
• Affordability [star rating='3.1']

5. AquaTop 550 GPH Forza FZ13 UV Canister Filter with 13W Sterilizer

User Ratings: 68 11

AquaTop FZ13 First Impressions

"Kudos to Amazon prime!"

Typically just below the flat part of the outlets. I eyedball everything and put it together with a look back at instructions. What I don't like is how much smaller it is than the Aqueon. I have purchased several Aqua Clear filters over the years. One thing I think is worth mentioning is the need to prime the filter. I used to have a 37 gallon eclipse aquarium. , that's what makes this so funny.

• AquaTop 550 GPH Forza FZ13 UV Canister Filter with 13W Sterilizer
• Suitable for tanks ranging from 125-175 gal
• 550 gals/hr
• Multi-stage Filtration System w/ UV
• Prevents algae growth and controls free Floating parasites and disease causing pathogens
• Manufacture: Aquatop, Inc.
• Product Dimensions: 17 x 12.5 x 12.5 inches; 18 Pounds

• Editor's Impressions Of The AquaTop FZ13
• Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.6']
• Quality [star rating='3.4']
• Value For Money [star rating='4.9']
• Affordability [star rating='3.1']

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']

7. JOR Neon Tetra Sponge Filter, Underwater Center Aquarium Filter 10-Gallon, Works for Tropical Fish &...

User Ratings: 43

JOR First Impressions

"No big deal."

There is a sound from the water shooting into the tank! SO I decided to order this for my 29 gallon tank. With the 350's inexpensive price point, you can’t go wrong with this powerful filter. The first night I had the pump going it started making a screeching sound. Overall I would recommend this item. My fish are definitely happier and my water is crystal clear. Clean the foam insert apparently it pulled a lot of dirt and needs cleaned.

• JOR Neon Tetra Sponge Filter, Underwater Center Aquarium Filter 10-Gallon, Works for Tropical Fish & Breeder Aquarium, Slow Current, Perfect for Betta & Small Fish, Must-Have for Aquarist
• SPECIALLY DESIGNED FOR NEON TETRA, GUPPY & MOLLY FISH --- Neon Tetra, Guppy, Molly, Betta and other small fish will NEVER get stuck up into our filter. These fish, especially Neon Tetra, generally don’t like vigorous currents, they prefer calm and steady water. Our filter is designed to have slow current to easily let Neon Tetra, Molly, dwarf cichlids, Betta, Guppies, and krill fish, continue breeding and spawning comfortably.
• 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 Jor will do the same job economically and quickly.
• 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 acts as a site 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 quiet 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 maintain it, during a water change. Simply rinse and squeeze a few times, until you see the water run clear from the sponge.
• Manufacture: JOR

• Editor's Impressions Of The JOR
• Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.6']
• Quality [star rating='4.4']
• Value For Money [star rating='3.1']
• Affordability [star rating='3.9']

8. Penn Plax Cascade 500/350 GPH Aquarium Canister Filter Bio Sponge Replacement

User Ratings: 93

Penn-Plax CCF129 First Impressions

"+Great price."

Unlike my old HOB filter, it doesn't sound like a leaky toilet. I want to answer some of the complaints I've read. I eyedball everything and put it together with a look back at instructions. If that does not work, look into silicone grease so you can lube the impeller. Overall, I like the 350's slim back design, and be able to add up to 4 cartridges. I've looked at so many filters and reviews. They are easily found from mom-n-pop pet stores to large chain stores.

• Penn Plax Cascade 500/350 GPH Aquarium Canister Filter Bio Sponge Replacement
• Keep your water clean and clear with the replacement bio sponge for use in the Cascade 500 Model CCF1UL and Cascade Elite canister filter models.
• The bio sponge filter removes ammonia and nitrites from your aquarium tank keeping your aquarium clean; healthy; and odor free.
• Filter sponge optimizes the colonization of beneficial aerobic bacteria which prevents the water from becoming cloudy and harming fish.
• Perfectly cut to fit into the Cascade 500 filter tray without any gaps which could allow pollutants to re-enter the water.
• Genuine Penn Plax replacement cartridge for Cascade 500 models. When used together; the filter and bio sponge provide maximum protection against water pollutants.
• Manufacture: Monster Pets
• Product Dimensions: 7.5 x 1.5 x 5.5 inches; 1.6 Ounces

• Editor's Impressions Of The Penn-Plax CCF129
• Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.9']
• Quality [star rating='4.9']
• Value For Money [star rating='5']
• Affordability [star rating='3.9']

9. 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']

10. Aqueon QuietFlow Internal Shrimp Filter for Freshwater Aquariums up to 10 Gallons, 100534681

User Ratings: 51 16

Aqueon 100534681 First Impressions

"I bought an FX6 in 2013."

I used to work as a marine biologist for a major state aquarium. The lever on the bottom helps even the filter out. I decided to go with this filter since I had a positive experience previously. I have always used Marineland filters and been happy with them and their quality. Now I'm having the same issue with the Aqua Clear 50. Typically just below the flat part of the outlets. Firstly, I'd recommend taking the motor apart and putting it back together.

• Aqueon QuietFlow Internal Shrimp Filter for Freshwater Aquariums up to 10 Gallons, 100534681
• Internal filter for freshwater tanks up to 10 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
• Age Range Description: All Life Stages
• Manufacture: AQUEON
• Product Dimensions: 4.5 x 4.25 x 6.25 inches; 1 Pounds

• Editor's Impressions Of The Aqueon 100534681
• Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.7']
• Quality [star rating='3']
• Value For Money [star rating='3.1']
• Affordability [star rating='4.7']