Editor's Choice - Our Favorite Cheap Aquarium Heaters
1. Cobalt Aquatics Flat Neo-Therm Heater with Adjustable Thermostat (Fully-Submersible, Shatterproof De...
User Ratings: 69 13
Cobalt Aquatics 31005 First Impressions
"Works as intended."I love the heater otherwise, but I'm afraid some water has gotten inside the heater. My fish likes to get close to it and he has never been hurt by it. I emailed the email it says to and told them. Bought it as a chiller for the k40 CO2 laser. Very easy to install and the adjustable temperature gauge is pretty accurate. Now, both points are clear on the package instructions. Beware, but we are hoping for a good outcome!
- Cobalt Aquatics Flat Neo-Therm Heater with Adjustable Thermostat (Fully-Submersible, Shatterproof Design) from 25W to 300W
- Super-flat design. Fully submersible, modern design for energy efficient Aquarium and terrarium heating. Includes reversible holster/bracket, which allows heater to face inward or outward. See the product images to determine the best neo-therm size for your tank.
- Accurate, one-touch system. Simply set temperature between 66-96°f with one touch and the neo-therm electronic thermostat will maintain Tank temperature within +0.5°F. Led displays both set temp and actual temp, simultaneously.
- Ultimate safety and reliability. Integrated thermal protection circuitry prevents heater from overheating. If you forget to turn it off, the neo-therm will automatically shut it down.
- Virtually indestructible. Unlike cheap, glass heaters, the neo-therm is a resin/thermoplastic heater with a shatterproof outer-casing. Made in Poland and includes a 3-year warranty.
- Manufacturer You can trust. Most manufacturers rate their heaters on the ability to raise an aquarium 2-3°f above ambient temperatures. This is unreliable and misleading, as the average home fluctuates 2-3°f or more throughout the day. Cobalt rates The neo-therm on the ability to raise a tank 11°f above ambient temperatures, so you will never have to worry about overworking the neo-therm or it keeping up!
- Manufacture: Cobalt International Inc.
- Product Dimensions: 2.25 x 1.25 x 11 inches; 8 Ounces
- Editor's Impressions Of The Cobalt Aquatics 31005
- Heat Quality [star rating='4.2']
- Quality [star rating='5']
- Value For Money [star rating='3.8']
- Affordability [star rating='4.9']
Cobalt Aquatics 31005 Final Thoughts
"Well written but vague."It comes with a hanging kit and can be secured on the edge of the tank. I have 3 of the Fluval heaters, in various sizes. This little heater is perfect; this is our third purchase of the same heater. I have only had minor problems with the suction cups. It took me a few days slowly turning the dial up to finally get it where I wanted. I use this little heater for my 10 gallon quarantine tank. I dont know, and havent tried just yet.
Overall Score
4.2
(1419 Points)

Here Are Some Other Related Aquarium Heaters
2. LUYS Aquarium Heater, Upgraded 300W/500W Fish Tank Heater with Intelligent Leaving Water Automatical...
User Ratings: 87 2
LUYS First Impressions
"Very easy and accurate."No biggie, but annoying nonetheless. This heater is NOT fully submersible. Personally for me the housing doesn't bother me. The temperatures are pretty accurate. The temperatures are pretty accurate. I am very happy with this purchase. Will update my review if any changes occur.
- LUYS Aquarium Heater, Upgraded 300W/500W Fish Tank Heater with Intelligent Leaving Water Automatically Stop Heating and Over Temperature Protection System, Suitable for Marine Saltwater and Freshwater
- 【Intelligent Water Sensor and Over Temperature Protection】This aquarium heater has a unique intelligent temperature and water sensor system, the heater will automatically stop heating when the heater is completely out of water or it rapidly heats beyond the set temperature, the indicator light will turn green in both cases to ensure the maximum safety of you and your aquatic organisms just like protecting our own safety.
- 【Explosion-proof Quartz Material】The aquarium heater is made of high-quality quartz glass tube, it's very durable and explosion-proof, this fish tank heater can be used for saltwater and freshwater aquariums, which is pretty shatter-proof and blast-proof and prevents electricity leakage. And the stronger black protective container is scald-preventing for your aquatic organisms and your safety.
- 【Rapid Heating System】The voltage of this aquarium heater is 100-120V/50-60HZ, power 300W, Universal two-pin plug, heater rod length 12.99 inch, 300W submersible heater for fish tank 26-66 gallon, Temp range: 62-93℉. The heating tube can conduct heat quickly and fully contact with water to achieve rapid heating effect.
- 【Digital LED Display Controller】the external IC temp controller of the fish tank heater can show the water temp with 2 red LED digits. The temperature in Fahrenheit and Celsius is displayed, which can be switched by pressing and holding the button for a few seconds. To set the temp, just press the button over and over until the screen displaying the temp you desired, the setting is done and the led shows the current water temp again.
- 【Wide Range of Use】This aquarium heater is suitable for many occasions. The fish market is a common place for us. It can maintain the freshness of fish. They are also suitable for places where aquatic life such as fish tanks, aquariums, and small fish ponds are kept. There are strong suction cups on the heater guard and the thermometer, it's easy to install the aquarium heater no to the tank walls or bottom, please keep them fully submerged.
- Manufacture: LUYS
- Product Dimensions: 12.99 x 1.38 x 1.77 inches; 1.57 Pounds
- Editor's Impressions Of The LUYS
- Heat Quality [star rating='3.9']
- Quality [star rating='5']
- Value For Money [star rating='4']
- Affordability [star rating='3.8']
LUYS Final Thoughts
"Overall happy."The temperature gauge is fairly accurate in my 55 gallon tank. If the blue light is flashing it means the heater is not fully submersible. Sometimes it gets outside of it's ability to cool but only within a few degrees. Ick for instance detaches from fish at 86 degrees and dies at 89. I hope these suction cups work very well. There is no protection from it banging on the glass tank. The heater is being used in a 40 gallon breeder.
Overall Score
4.8
(87 Points)

3. Aqua Euro USA Apex Chiller Horsepower: 1/10 HP
Aqua Euro USA AC10A First Impressions
"Can be hidden."Sometimes you may have to tinker around with the dial. There is a misconception on the internet that the heater isn't fully submersible. I got the 200W variant for my 54 gallon corner tank that's housing goldfish. Or better yet, conceal it to the back corner. This this is amazing and is worth the money. I contacted the manufacturer and they sent me a new unit in less than a week! Or better yet, conceal it to the back corner.
- Aqua Euro USA Apex Chiller Horsepower: 1/10 HP
- Titanium heat exchanger features a high BTU rating for superior heat removal
- Aquarium water chiller designed with quiet operation-rubber mounts to reduce vibration
- Powerful compressor uses Freon-free and ozone-friendly R134a refrigerant
- 1/10th Horsepower Rating
- Manufacture: Aqua Euro USA
- Item Weight: 29 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 15.7 x 8.6 x 16.4 inches
- Editor's Impressions Of The Aqua Euro USA AC10A
- Heat Quality [star rating='2.7']
- Quality [star rating='4']
- Value For Money [star rating='3.5']
- Affordability [star rating='3.9']
Aqua Euro USA AC10A Final Thoughts
"5 or even."All seem to vary between 1-2 degrees of each other which doesn't concern me much. The bonus digital thermometer it came with has been super helpful, and is accurate. For Discus you need warm and accurate heater and this seems to do the trick. There is a misconception on the internet that the heater isn't fully submersible. If the water runs low or air gets in the heater shuts off. And kids love pushing all sorts of buttons. Personally for me the housing doesn't bother me.
Overall Score
3.7
(2 Points)

4. Ehm Heater Jager 300w
User Ratings: 72 7
Eheim First Impressions
"Works fine."But I am single and don't have to worry about this. I noticed my old hygger heater beginning to fail and my wife ordered this one. I have a few of these and I use them in my 55 gallons tanks and a 29 gallon tank. Well I bought a second one took me only one trying to get the right temperature. So if you set it to 78 degrees, the heater will not kick on until it reads 76. No biggie, but annoying nonetheless. I went ahead and went with the the larger 300W for my 45 gallon.
- Ehm Heater Jager 300w
- Jager Trutemp Aquarium Heater 20" 300 Wt
- Manufacture: EHEIM
- Editor's Impressions Of The Eheim
- Heat Quality [star rating='5']
- Quality [star rating='4.4']
- Value For Money [star rating='4.1']
- Affordability [star rating='3.7']
Eheim Final Thoughts
"Quality was amazing."If the water runs low or air gets in the heater shuts off. This heater warmed it right up and now my Betta and guppies are more active. We would consider a replacement and then we would return the defective unit. The temperature has been holding all day, even in a colder room. It is a bonus that the heater is titanium. It just cycles through to 93f and starts over. Seems to keep the temp n the tank fairly regular.
Overall Score
4.4
(53 Points)

5. Cobalt Aquatics Flat Neo-Therm Heater with Adjustable Thermostat (Fully-Submersible, Shatterproof De...
User Ratings: 69 13
Cobalt Aquatics 31005 First Impressions
"Works as intended."I love the heater otherwise, but I'm afraid some water has gotten inside the heater. My fish likes to get close to it and he has never been hurt by it. I emailed the email it says to and told them. Bought it as a chiller for the k40 CO2 laser. Very easy to install and the adjustable temperature gauge is pretty accurate. Now, both points are clear on the package instructions. Beware, but we are hoping for a good outcome!
- Cobalt Aquatics Flat Neo-Therm Heater with Adjustable Thermostat (Fully-Submersible, Shatterproof Design) from 25W to 300W
- Super-flat design. Fully submersible, modern design for energy efficient Aquarium and terrarium heating. Includes reversible holster/bracket, which allows heater to face inward or outward. See the product images to determine the best neo-therm size for your tank.
- Accurate, one-touch system. Simply set temperature between 66-96°f with one touch and the neo-therm electronic thermostat will maintain Tank temperature within +0.5°F. Led displays both set temp and actual temp, simultaneously.
- Ultimate safety and reliability. Integrated thermal protection circuitry prevents heater from overheating. If you forget to turn it off, the neo-therm will automatically shut it down.
- Virtually indestructible. Unlike cheap, glass heaters, the neo-therm is a resin/thermoplastic heater with a shatterproof outer-casing. Made in Poland and includes a 3-year warranty.
- Manufacturer You can trust. Most manufacturers rate their heaters on the ability to raise an aquarium 2-3°f above ambient temperatures. This is unreliable and misleading, as the average home fluctuates 2-3°f or more throughout the day. Cobalt rates The neo-therm on the ability to raise a tank 11°f above ambient temperatures, so you will never have to worry about overworking the neo-therm or it keeping up!
- Manufacture: Cobalt International Inc.
- Product Dimensions: 2.25 x 1.25 x 11 inches; 8 Ounces
- Editor's Impressions Of The Cobalt Aquatics 31005
- Heat Quality [star rating='4.2']
- Quality [star rating='5']
- Value For Money [star rating='3.8']
- Affordability [star rating='4.9']
Cobalt Aquatics 31005 Final Thoughts
"Well written but vague."It comes with a hanging kit and can be secured on the edge of the tank. I have 3 of the Fluval heaters, in various sizes. This little heater is perfect; this is our third purchase of the same heater. I have only had minor problems with the suction cups. It took me a few days slowly turning the dial up to finally get it where I wanted. I use this little heater for my 10 gallon quarantine tank. I dont know, and havent tried just yet.
Overall Score
4.2
(1419 Points)

6. Eheim Jager Aquarium Thermostat Heater
User Ratings: 72 7
Eheim 3619090 First Impressions
"I angled it."For Discus you need warm and accurate heater and this seems to do the trick. I wouldn't buy any other heater, unless one of these stops working. Maintains it well except when the weather is already warm then it over heats it. I like how the heater is constructed. This is only day one though, so I shall keep an eye one it. The design is sleek and modern looking. Pressing and holding the button for 5 seconds changes it from F to C readouts.
- Eheim Jager Aquarium Thermostat Heater
- Fully submersible
- Thermo safey control protects against running dry
- Will automatically turn off when water level dips too low
- TruTemp dial recalibrates the heater for precise temperature regulation
- Made of shock resistant and shatter proof glass for fresh or marine water
- On/Off indicator light for at-a-glance monitoring
- Manufacture: Eheim
- Editor's Impressions Of The Eheim 3619090
- Heat Quality [star rating='3.7']
- Quality [star rating='5']
- Value For Money [star rating='4']
- Affordability [star rating='4']
Eheim 3619090 Final Thoughts
"Long heater."This is only day one though, so I shall keep an eye one it. We would consider a replacement and then we would return the defective unit. I will definitely be buying another one for my other tanks at bigger one. They shipped us the upgraded version that also heats! And kids love pushing all sorts of buttons. We received the chiller promptly and put it into use. I got a hold of Amazon, who put me in touch with the seller.
Overall Score
4.4
(3152 Points)

7. hygger Submersible Aquarium Heater,100W /300W Adjustable Fish Tank Heater with External Temp Control...
User Ratings: 73 9
hygger First Impressions
"5 gallons."I have it set to 81F to get a 77F water temp. I dont know, and havent tried just yet. Easy enough to let it run all the time. The temperature gauge is fairly accurate in my 55 gallon tank. It took about an hour to reach 80f, which is fairly quick. I love the heater otherwise, but I'm afraid some water has gotten inside the heater. It's only been set up for a month we'll see how well it does in a few months.
- hygger Submersible Aquarium Heater,100W /300W Adjustable Fish Tank Heater with External Temp Controller Auto Thermostat Heater for 10-60 Gallon Saltwater and Freshwater Tank
- 300W AQUARIUM HEATER: For 30 to 60 gallon fish tanks, with a precision probe inside, it is possible to monitor heat more efficiently and avoid "cooking fish", and it can be fixed on the inner glass of the aquarium with suction cup without disturbing the fish.
- TEMPERATURE ADJUSTMENT: Set the temperature on the adjustment wheel outside the aquarium. The adjustment knob of submersible aquarium heater can select the temperature between 75°F and 91°F , Temp Control Accuracy:±2℉,Temp Accuracy:±1℉, without worrying about hand wetness.
- FULLY AUTOMATIC CONTROL: When the water temperature is higher than the set temperature value, the fish tank heater will automatically stop; if the water temperature is lower than the set temperature, the heater will automatically start heating (error is 1.5-2°F).
- OVERHEAT PROTECTION: When the water temperature is over 97°F, the aquarium heater will auto shut down. If a fault occurs, the backup circuit in the controller will work to shut it down. It provides a warm and sustainable environment while keeping a safe life for fish.
- RELIABLE QUALITY: Use milky quartz material, can resist a high temp of 1800 fahrenheit degree, excellent in explosion-proof and shatter-resistant, to prevent burns on your pet. Fish tank water Heater is suitable for saltwater and freshwater, fast heating, corrosion resistance and oxidation resistance.
- Manufacture: hygger
- Editor's Impressions Of The hygger
- Heat Quality [star rating='3.8']
- Quality [star rating='5']
- Value For Money [star rating='4.8']
- Affordability [star rating='3.9']
hygger Final Thoughts
"Very pleased so far."There is no protection from it banging on the glass tank. There is a misconception on the internet that the heater isn't fully submersible. --The cylinder or rod diameter is bigger. They shipped us the upgraded version that also heats! All seem to vary between 1-2 degrees of each other which doesn't concern me much. I like to keep it at 72 and from my thermometer it is reading at exactly 72. There is no protection from it banging on the glass tank.
Overall Score
4.3
(135 Points)

8. HITOP 25W 50W 100W Adjustable Aquarium Heater, Submersible Fish Tank Heater Thermostat with Suction ...
User Ratings: 70 5
HITOP HP 608 First Impressions
"Bought the 300W one."Personally for me the housing doesn't bother me. I used to try those other cheap heaters sold on amazon. Sometimes it gets outside of it's ability to cool but only within a few degrees. There is a misconception on the internet that the heater isn't fully submersible. Easy enough to let it run all the time. I noticed my old hygger heater beginning to fail and my wife ordered this one. This heater warmed it right up and now my Betta and guppies are more active.
- HITOP 25W 50W 100W Adjustable Aquarium Heater, Submersible Fish Tank Heater Thermostat with Suction Cup
- Thickened Glass: 2mm thickened quartz glass, 33% thicker than 1.5mm normal aquarium heaters, much safer for human and your lovely fishes, your pets will no longer fear the winter.
- Automatic Constant Temperature Function: this fish heater, adjustable temperature 68 ~ 93 °F, will shut off automatically when the temperature is reached, no extra adjustment is required.
- Quick and easy installation, submersible fish tank heater, vertical or horizontal placement using suction cups. 1 extra powerful suction cups as your backup (total 3).
- 50W aquarium heater, length 7.8-inch, power cord 4.9ft, designed for small fish tanks, recommended for aquariums up to 20 Gallons.
- Bonus a stick-on thermometer, no need to buy another thermometer, 24-Hour Professional After-sales Service.
- Manufacture: Haisen
- Product Dimensions: 7.87 x 0.98 x 0.98 inches; 8.78 Ounces
- Editor's Impressions Of The HITOP HP 608
- Heat Quality [star rating='4.6']
- Quality [star rating='4.3']
- Value For Money [star rating='4.7']
- Affordability [star rating='4.8']
HITOP HP 608 Final Thoughts
"So far it seems great!"I tested it by unplugging and replugging it. The red light means it's off, blue light means the temperature is constant. The heater is easy; turn the dial to set temp and plug in. It's pretty noticeable, but I don't really care. The temperature gauge is fairly accurate in my 55 gallon tank. This this is amazing and is worth the money. After several weeks of running the heater.
Overall Score
4.4
(960 Points)

9. IceProbe Thermoelectric Aquarium Chiller - 4 in. x 4 3/4 in. x 7 1/2 in.
User Ratings: 60 13
Nova First Impressions
"So far so good."I will definitely be buying another one for my other tanks at bigger one. There is a misconception on the internet that the heater isn't fully submersible. I have 3 of the Fluval heaters, in various sizes. You program it for temperature you want your tank to be. Those turned out to be a hit and miss. Personally for me the housing doesn't bother me. I emailed the email it says to and told them.
- IceProbe Thermoelectric Aquarium Chiller - 4 in. x 4 3/4 in. x 7 1/2 in.
- Unit is 4" x 4 3/4" x 7 1/2" includes probe. Cord: 5' 9", probe cord: 6'.
- Warranty: Unit has a one year warrenty agains defects in materials and workmanship.
- Manufacture: NOVA TEC
- Product Dimensions: 9 x 0.5 x 8 inches; 3.2 Pounds
- Editor's Impressions Of The Nova
- Heat Quality [star rating='4.6']
- Quality [star rating='5']
- Value For Money [star rating='3.9']
- Affordability [star rating='4.1']
Nova Final Thoughts
"I would buy again."Once I opened the box i noticed the quality of the construction. I hope these suction cups work very well. Takes a little while to drop the temps if it is hot in the garage. It would stick out of my 30 g wide tank if I were to put it vertical. I emailed the email it says to and told them. Takes a little while to drop the temps if it is hot in the garage. Ick for instance detaches from fish at 86 degrees and dies at 89.
Overall Score
4.0
(166 Points)

10. U-picks Submersible Aquarium Heater 100W/300W/500W Fish Tank Heater with Intelligent External LED Di...
User Ratings: 70 11
U-picks First Impressions
"It easy to set."We received the chiller promptly and put it into use. It's only been set up for a month we'll see how well it does in a few months. The controller is easy to use, very accurate and reliable. Once I opened the box i noticed the quality of the construction. Personally for me the housing doesn't bother me. If the water runs low or air gets in the heater shuts off. They shipped us the upgraded version that also heats!
- U-picks Submersible Aquarium Heater 100W/300W/500W Fish Tank Heater with Intelligent External LED Digital Temperature Controller and Dual Temp Displays for Turtle Betta Fish Tank 5-130 Gallon
- External Controller: Our fish tank heater is adjusted by an external controller, which you can mount on the outside edge of the tank. It’s convenient and safe to adjust temperature, no need to take the heater out from water and risk burning yourself.
- Dual Temp Displays: With dual accurate LED digital temp displays, you can read & set the water temp at the same time. It is very easy and convenient for you to recognize and observe the temp change in real time even in the night!
- Smart Heating: With the built-in temperature sensor and constant temperature heating system, this fish heater will start to work when the water temp is lower than set temp(red indicator), and stop work until the water temp reaches set temp(blue indicator). It can always provide adequate and steady water temperature for your beloved fish.
- High Quality: Our fish tank heater is made of thicker quartz, which is shatter-proof and blast-proof. The heater cover is compact designed, which is heat resistant that will protect you little fish from scalding.
- Tank Size: This 100W aquarium heater is suitable for 5-25 gallon fish tank both freshwater and saltwater. With our this fish tank heater, you can create a comfortable and safe environment for your fish.
- Manufacture: U-picks
- Editor's Impressions Of The U-picks
- Heat Quality [star rating='3.3']
- Quality [star rating='5']
- Value For Money [star rating='4.7']
- Affordability [star rating='3.3']
U-picks Final Thoughts
"Yes, you read that right."I was worried about the quality but I am thoroughly impressed with this heater! I adjusted the set temperature a little lower to be more in the range I wanted. My fish likes to get close to it and he has never been hurt by it. Keeps the water consistent and it's easy to adjust! You program it for temperature you want your tank to be. My marina heater takes a few hours. Come on Fluval, expect better from you.
Overall Score
4.3
(111 Points)
