Editor's Choice - Our Favorite Zoo Med Aquarium Filters

1. Zoo Med Turtle Clean External Canister Filter, 50-Gallon

User Ratings: 56 25

Zoo Med TC50 First Impressions

"Very pleased!"

The instructions are a bit to much for me. I contacted Marineland about my issue and they promptly sent me a new one right away! My baby turtle even loves it so much he won't let go. My fish are definitely happier and my water is crystal clear. The bacteria eats the nitrates in the water to help keep it clean. What I don't like is how much smaller it is than the Aqueon. My baby turtle even loves it so much he won't let go.

• Zoo Med Turtle Clean External Canister Filter, 50-Gallon
• External canister filter with slimline design for tight spaces
• 200 gallon per hour rating, ideal for turtle habitats up to 50 gallons in size
• The included spray bar increases oxygenation to help support your turtles' health
• Double filtering system with both carbon and ceramic filters and internal biological recirculation
• Combines mechanical, biological, and chemical filtration to give your pets the cleanest, healthiest habitat
• Manufacture: Zoo Med
• Product Dimensions: 11.2 x 9.5 x 14.5 inches; 1.2 Pounds

• Editor's Impressions Of The Zoo Med TC50
• Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3']
• Quality [star rating='4.5']
• Value For Money [star rating='2.9']
• Affordability [star rating='4.4']

Here Are Some Other Related Aquarium Filters

2. Aquarium Reef and Deionization Reverse Osmosis RODI Water Filtration System - 4 Stage | 150 GPD

User Ratings: 68

Oceanic Water Systems First Impressions

"Expensive."

Fill up the media slot with water until it's full. I want to answer some of the complaints I've read. This lives up to the praise that people give it. Doing research I learned that if I add more filter media, the noise will subside. I want to answer some of the complaints I've read. Overall, I like the 350's slim back design, and be able to add up to 4 cartridges. I was worried that it might be too much for my aquarium or that it would be loud.

• Aquarium Reef and Deionization Reverse Osmosis RODI Water Filtration System - 4 Stage | 150 GPD
• This product is great for aquariums, laboratory testing, and other applications for pure water. Pre- Assembled system for easy installation. Installation takes approximately 5 minutes!
• Ideal for Reef Tanks, Salt-Water and Fresh-Water Aquariums by the process of deionization ensuring zero ppm water, optimal for fish, coral, and other Marine life & plants
• Pre-Assembled and Very Easy to Install. Usable with chlorinated and well-water sources. Great for freshwater or saltwater aquariums
• Perfect for city water that is treated with low amounts of chlorine, or well water with very minimal contaminants.
• Air-leak tested, leak-free fittings and long lasting filters ensure durability and mitigate chances for damage and breakage. BPA free to supplement a safe environment.
• Manufacture: Oceanic Water Systems

• Editor's Impressions Of The Oceanic Water Systems
• Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.9']
• Quality [star rating='4.9']
• Value For Money [star rating='5']
• Affordability [star rating='4.6']

3. Fluval High Performance Aquarium Filter

User Ratings: 86 5

Fluval A219 First Impressions

"I was to tire to fix it."

This one is working perfectly good FOR RIGHT NOW. Now I'm having the same issue with the Aqua Clear 50. This filter comes with a sponge, activated carbon, and bio material in a mesh bag. Lightly clean the silver roller pins on the ends. BUT after some YouTube research I was able to fix the noise issue. The lever on the bottom helps even the filter out. This one is working perfectly good FOR RIGHT NOW.

• Fluval High Performance Aquarium Filter
• Multi-Stage Filter that produces healthy aquarium water, freshwater or marine aquariums
• Features Smart Pump Technology for optimal filter performance, efficiency and management
• Self-starting filter-just add water and plug in. Head height (maximum): 3. 3 m (10. 8 feet)
• For aquariums up to 400 gallons
• Multi-stage filter pumps out an astounding 925 gallons (3500 L) of water per hour
• Smart Pump – advanced microchip technology continuously monitors and optimizes pump performance
• Self-starting – just add water, plug in and Smart Pump will take over. Trapped air auto-evacuated every 12 hours to ensure maximum efficiency
• Easy water changes eliminate need to lift heavy buckets. Simply attach hosing to output (Kit sold separately) and Smart Pump does the rest
• Manufacture: Fluval
• Product Dimensions: 15 x 15 x 20 inches; 19.9 Pounds

• Editor's Impressions Of The Fluval A219
• Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.9']
• Quality [star rating='3.8']
• Value For Money [star rating='3.7']
• Affordability [star rating='5']

4. AQUANEAT Double Bio Sponge Filter, for Fry, Betta, Shrimp, Nano Aquarium Fish Tank with Airline Tubi...

User Ratings: 78 3

AQUANEAT First Impressions

"Since then no problems."

This is not my first experience with a marineland filter. That water got so dirty we had to keep changing it every 2 or 3 days. Oscars are very messy fish, especially during feeding. Also price was very reasonable and shipping was fast. I own 3 of these and besides my canister they are my favorite filters. DO NOT CLEAN OR WASH the paper wheel itself. Early on it seems to be working as advertised.

• AQUANEAT Double Bio Sponge Filter, for Fry, Betta, Shrimp, Nano Aquarium Fish Tank with Airline Tubing, Air Pump Valves, Suction Cups
• Biochemical Filtration：Sponge filter provide both mechanical and biological filtration, also, the air infusion chamber produces minute bubbles which increase the oxygen solubility
• Easy to Set up & Clean: Simply install an airline into the unit and turn on the air pump; simply rinse and squeeze sponge in tank water
• Recommend Tank Size: Up to 55 gallon, excellent for small size fish like dwarf cichlid, guppy, killifish etc ; or for hatcheries, maternity tanks, and fry tanks, as the filter produces minimal current and has almost no way to suck the fish through the filter
• Dimension: 6.5”L x 2.4”W x 9.5”H
• Includes: 1 sponge filter, 1 set of accessories: 4 suction cups, 4ft airline tubing,1 control valve, 1 tee, 1 non-return check valve
• Manufacture: AQUANEAT

• Editor's Impressions Of The AQUANEAT
• Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.6']
• Quality [star rating='4.5']
• Value For Money [star rating='4.3']
• Affordability [star rating='5']

5. Coralife Marine Filter Cart Lg 3pk

User Ratings: 96

Coralife 100528633 First Impressions

"Yeah, no no no!"

It doesn't rise up hugely above the tank like a lot of HOB filters. I liked the clean lined look and the pull out basket. I had to cut the hood to make it work. The first night I had the pump going it started making a screeching sound. I DONT KNOW WHY MANY THINK THIS IS A NOISY FILTER. Not sure what I'll do with the more complex design. Firstly, I'd recommend taking the motor apart and putting it back together.

• Coralife Marine Filter Cart Lg 3pk
• The large cora life marine Filter replacement cartridge pack contains three dual sided, dense floss carbon cartridges designed to remove unwanted debris and odor from the Cora life marine Filter with protein skimmer. These cartridges need to be changed every 4-6 weeks or whenever you observe water beginning to enter the filter bypass or when the cartridge itself becomes clogged with various organic waste and debris. Unlike other filter cartridges, replacing this unit is speedy and hassle free.
• 3-pack replacement filters—each cartridge provides 4 to 6 weeks of clean marine water.
• High-quality, activated carbon works to remove harmful waste from your saltwater aquarium and improve water clarity.
• Installs in seconds with a bottom key slot for optimal alignment.
• Manufacture: CORALIFE

• Editor's Impressions Of The Coralife 100528633
• Filter Effectiveness [star rating='5']
• Quality [star rating='4.8']
• Value For Money [star rating='4.1']
• Affordability [star rating='4.7']

6. EmmaWu Turtle Filter Low Water Level Aquarium Filter Waterfall Flow Submersible Turtle Tank Filter (...

User Ratings: 61 3

EmmaWu First Impressions

"Coarse, medium, and fine."

BUT after some YouTube research I was able to fix the noise issue. I used to work as a marine biologist for a major state aquarium. It's easy to clean and we all know about easy. The current is strong but you can adjust it with the midsection lever. It was perfectly quiet without any extra effort on my part. Once I found that, the world was right again. I want to answer some of the complaints I've read.

• EmmaWu Turtle Filter Low Water Level Aquarium Filter Waterfall Flow Submersible Turtle Tank Filter (Black)
• The bio-filtration system could physically remove the large particles and substance and biologically degrade discharge by turtles, crabs, fish and other animals.
• The waterfall system could add enough oxygen in water, which help beneficial microbes grow;
• Very room saving, only need a corner in the tank;
• Lowest water level height is 2.4 inch, which let turtles breath easily;
• Extra long cord, 4 feet, make it easy to put the filter in any place in the tank.
• Manufacture: EmmaWu

• Editor's Impressions Of The EmmaWu
• Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.1']
• Quality [star rating='4.8']
• Value For Money [star rating='3.8']
• Affordability [star rating='5']

7. API Filstar XP

User Ratings: 58 15

API 720 First Impressions

"I should loosen it up."

, that's what makes this so funny. I ordered 4 of these, for different tanks of course. The filter arrived within 2 days and was the exact same as Petsmart's. However, lately I've purchased the Aqua Clear 70 and 50. I put it together, reading instructions of course. I have the topfin 29 gallon tank and used the HOB filter it came with. I used a small pair of pliers and carefully got the pebbles out.

• API Filstar XP
• Contains one (1) API FILSTAR XP FILTER SIZE S Aquarium Canister Filter 1-Count Box
• Provides powerful filtration for perfectly balanced and crystal clear aquarium water.
• Very easy to use and maintain; allows for centralized control of all the functions of the filtration system.
• Quick disconnect, leak free, fast cleaning, and self-priming.
• Allows the use of various filtration media available in the API range, and meets your specific freshwater and saltwater requirements.
• Manufacture: Aquarium Pharmaceuticals
• Product Dimensions: 9 x 13.5 x 12.75 inches; 10.7 Pounds

• Editor's Impressions Of The API 720
• Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.6']
• Quality [star rating='3.3']
• Value For Money [star rating='4.9']
• Affordability [star rating='4.4']

8. SunSun HW703B 370GPH Pro Canister Fish Tank Filter Kit with 9-watt UV Sterilizer

User Ratings: 38 13

SUN HW-703B PRO First Impressions

"SAME THING!"

Firstly, I'd recommend taking the motor apart and putting it back together. I use Marinelands refillable cartridge for extra carbon on the extra slots. I sent a request for replacement and one came the next day. I want to answer some of the complaints I've read. Never ever ever use it past a year. , that's what makes this so funny. The instructions are a bit to much for me.

• SunSun HW703B 370GPH Pro Canister Fish Tank Filter Kit with 9-watt UV Sterilizer
• 4-stage aquarium canister filters at a great hobby-friendly value, 370GPH
• Integrated 9W UV sterilization to eradicate unwanted algae and harmful disease causing pathogens
• Provides quiet, efficient filtration for fresh and saltwater aquariums
• 3 Large Media Baskets for All Your Media Need, PRO Media kits included
• Dimension: 11" L X 11" W X 16" H, US plug 110-120v
• Manufacture: SUNSUN

• Editor's Impressions Of The SUN HW-703B PRO
• Filter Effectiveness [star rating='3.5']
• Quality [star rating='4.5']
• Value For Money [star rating='2.7']
• Affordability [star rating='3.7']

9. RO/DI 150GPD Reverse Osmosis Dual DI Aquarium/Reef System. Clear. Manual Flush

User Ratings: 82 4

FOUNTAINHEAD WATER SYSTEM First Impressions

"I only used one."

Firstly, I'd recommend taking the motor apart and putting it back together. I still have my original wheels on the year old 350 with no issues whatsoever. Replace activated carbon every 6-8 months ish. They are simply the best design for nitrifying bacteria to grow on. I also like the fact that it is relatively low profile and discreet looking. I've think I've had had six of them. I also don't like how short the intake tube is.

• RO/DI 150GPD Reverse Osmosis Dual DI Aquarium/Reef System. Clear. Manual Flush
• Type:RO/DI AQUARIUM/REEF WATER FILTER, Country/Region Of Manufacture:United States
• Brand:FOUNTAINHEAD WATER SYSTEM
• Mpn:FH32RODI150
• Manufacture: FOUNTAINHEAD WATER SYSTEM

• Editor's Impressions Of The FOUNTAINHEAD WATER SYSTEM
• Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.1']
• Quality [star rating='5']
• Value For Money [star rating='3.8']
• Affordability [star rating='4.9']

10. Odyssea CFS 500 Canister Filter with Media Aquarium External 100G 500 GPH

User Ratings: 46 21

Odyssea First Impressions

"Will UPDATE!"

I recently upgraded from a 10 gallon aquarium to a 29 gallon. My tank was a mess when I got this pump. Overall I would recommend this item. All in all, I highly recommend this filter and I'm a extremely happy customer! Replace activated carbon every 6-8 months ish. I AM IMPRESSED THAT IT WORKS AS IT ACTUALLY SHOULD! Once it loses its charge, you'll need to replace it.

• Odyssea CFS 500 Canister Filter with Media Aquarium External 100G 500 GPH
• Manufacture: Odyssea

• Editor's Impressions Of The Odyssea
• Filter Effectiveness [star rating='4.4']
• Quality [star rating='3.9']
• Value For Money [star rating='3.5']
• Affordability [star rating='3.1']