Editor's Choice - Our Favorite Small Aquarium Heaters
1. Orlushy Submersible Aquarium Heater,100W/150W/200W/300W Fish Tahk Heater with Adjust Knob Thermostat...
User Ratings: 77 3
Orlushy First Impressions
"Highly recommended."It's only been set up for a month we'll see how well it does in a few months. This does a great job at regulating the temp in my 10 gallon. Seems to keep the temp n the tank fairly regular. But my guys don't read them and don't listen! I'm not a big fan of the big glass tubes. --Temperature adjustment labeling is on top rather than on the rod. Easy enough to let it run all the time.
- Orlushy Submersible Aquarium Heater,100W/150W/200W/300W Fish Tahk Heater with Adjust Knob Thermostat 2 Suction Cups and Free Thermometer Suitable for Marine Saltwater and Freshwater
- ★300W aquarium heater is suitable for 50 to 80 gallons aquariums,Length - 11 inch,voltage 110-120V, power cord is 6ft, please choose the right wattage aquarium heater according to our size chart.
- ★It shows an area to adjust the temperature. It's not exactly accurate but it turns easy and can be adjusted at small intervals.
- ★Explosion Proof: 2mm thickened quartz glass,can be used in fresh water and salt water aquariums,easy to hide in the tank.
- ★Precise temperature dial from 68 to 89°F allows for complete control of aquatic climate within a 1-degree difference.
- ★Adjustable Aquarium Fish Tank Water Heater Sensitive and reliable thermostat maintains uniform temperature. Automatic shut off when the temperature is reached
- Manufacture: Nova pet supplies co.LTD
- Editor's Impressions Of The Orlushy
- Heat Quality [star rating='5']
- Quality [star rating='5']
- Value For Money [star rating='4']
- Affordability [star rating='4.6']
Orlushy Final Thoughts
"5 stars in my book!"I was amazed how quickly I got to my temperature I need it 78 degrees. I am very happy with this purchase. The heater is easy; turn the dial to set temp and plug in. I am very happy with this purchase. My fish likes to get close to it and he has never been hurt by it. At this time I highly recommend this product. Awesome chiller, perfect for Hydroponics.
Overall Score
4.6
(2456 Points)

Peoples Choice - Other Highly Rated Small Aquarium Heaters
2. Orlushy Mini Aquarium Heater 50W 100W 150W,Small Fish Tank Heater with LED Digital Temperature Displ...
User Ratings: 71 7
Orlushy First Impressions
"Very pleased so far."Also were nice along the whole process. I have a 10gallon tank that was at 72 degrees. We would consider a replacement and then we would return the defective unit. I have a few of these and I use them in my 55 gallons tanks and a 29 gallon tank. The temperature difference was very minor. --Temperature adjustment labeling is on top rather than on the rod. I waited a little bit to write the review so it could be accurate.
- Orlushy Mini Aquarium Heater 50W 100W 150W,Small Fish Tank Heater with LED Digital Temperature Display and External Temperature Controller for Betta Frogs Newts Turtles
- ★ 50W Submersible Aquarium Heater is Suitable for 3-10 Gallon.Temperature range: 65°F~93°F(18°C~34°C), power cord is 5 FT.
- ★ LED Display Design: LED digital display, External temperature controller,easy to use and Safety.
- ★ The Digital Smart Aquarium Heater is a heater and thermometer combined into one, eliminating the need for more equipment in smaller tanks.
- ★ Please be sure that the heater needs to be completely sunk into water, horizontal or vertical fixed in the water cycle better place, and let the working light can be seen as clear as possible.
- ★ Applicable for freshwater and marine aquariums, aquaculture, glass containers, and hydroponic systems
- Manufacture: Nova pet supplies co.LTD
- Product Dimensions: 4 x 2.75 x 1.6 inches; 8.78 Ounces
- Editor's Impressions Of The Orlushy
- Heat Quality [star rating='3.4']
- Quality [star rating='4.7']
- Value For Money [star rating='5']
- Affordability [star rating='3.4']
Orlushy Final Thoughts
"Quality was amazing."It would stick out of my 30 g wide tank if I were to put it vertical. Well worth the money the first one I bought still works great. We received the chiller promptly and put it into use. But I am single and don't have to worry about this. Or better yet, conceal it to the back corner. If the water runs low or air gets in the heater shuts off. I'm in the process of setting up for tanks.
Overall Score
4.4
(2168 Points)

3. 300w 150w 50w Submersible Aquarium Heater Auto Thermostat Heater with Suction,LED Small Mini Tempera...
User Ratings: 59 16
FTSTC First Impressions
"One word of caution."The temperature gauge is fairly accurate in my 55 gallon tank. 210 gallon ones and one 90 gallon bow front tank. I got the 200W variant for my 54 gallon corner tank that's housing goldfish. I had a thermometer on opposite side of tank and the heater was dead on true. This is a powerful heater that holds temperature very well. Keeps the water consistent and it's easy to adjust! I confirm it with my cooking digital probe thermometer.
- 300w 150w 50w Submersible Aquarium Heater Auto Thermostat Heater with Suction,LED Small Mini Temperature Display Aquarium Fish Tank Heater for Fish Tank Water
- UPGRADED MORE DURABLE VERSION: Provided the best warm area to your fish in the cold winter.Keeps improving best aquarium heater for your fish tank, after collecting so many comments from customers, we upgrade its function and life time, now it works more continuously and accurately.
- MORE SAFETY & HIGH QUALITY: This upgraded aquarium heater now updated for more durable Quartz Glass, which is pretty shatter-proof and blast-proof and prevents electricity leakage. And the stronger protective container updated for Anti-melting anti punching double sealed material, it is scald-preventing for your pets and your safety.
- FREE THERMOMETER: This fish tank heater come with an extra thermometer to show the accurate tank temperature to avoid overheat or freeze. It provide a constant warm environment for your pet fish to stay healthy, suitable both for fresh and salt water.
- TEMPERATURE CONTROL: Aquarium heater works in intermittent operation mode and will automatically turn on/off to achieve the setting temperature constantly and stably. Setting the temperature by the red knob on the top with range is 64°F - 94°F.High accuracy(±1°F)
- APPLICABLE TANK SIZE: Our submersible aquarium heaters are perfect designed for different size tank, 50W for 5-10 gallon; 100W for 10-30 gallon; 300W for 30-85 gallon, please choose the suitable power for your tank. And we also recommend to position it near a strong water flow, the outlet of a power filter is ideal, so that the whole aquarium are in the same temperature.
- Manufacture: FTSTC
- Batteries: 1 LR44 batteries required. (included)
- Editor's Impressions Of The FTSTC
- Heat Quality [star rating='4.5']
- Quality [star rating='4.5']
- Value For Money [star rating='4.8']
- Affordability [star rating='3.3']
FTSTC Final Thoughts
"I'll try once more."The heater is easy; turn the dial to set temp and plug in. We wish the controls were available in Farenheit also to make things a little easier. I was worried about the quality but I am thoroughly impressed with this heater! I have a few of these and I use them in my 55 gallons tanks and a 29 gallon tank. When i installed them, i let them sit in the tanks without power for 6-24 hours. This is a great heater that is very easy to set up and program. Would be great to be able to tune that to.
Overall Score
3.9
(1234 Points)

4. PULACO 25W Small Aquarium Betta Heater with Free Thermometer Strip, Under 6 Gallon Fish Tanks
User Ratings: 75 7
PULACO PL-168 First Impressions
"5 gallon tank."I would definitely recommend this product. It just cycles through to 93f and starts over. The setting always stayed the same. The suction cups are large, high quality and seem to stick great. I like to keep it at 72 and from my thermometer it is reading at exactly 72. Keeps the temperature within 1 degree of what you set it to at all times. I am very happy with this purchase.
- PULACO 25W Small Aquarium Betta Heater with Free Thermometer Strip, Under 6 Gallon Fish Tanks
- ★【Betta Heater】This Fish Tank Heater should be 100% submerged into water, Ideal for small glass or acrylic desktop aquariums up 1 to 6 Gallons, not suitable for less than 1 gallon tank.
- ★【Quick and Easy Installation】:Vertical or horizontal placement using, Aquarium heater automatic temperature control 78℉, no need to adjust temperature, easy to operate, fishes happy.
- ★【How it Works】: Plug in, red light turns on, the heater will start working until water temperature up to 78°F, and red light off, then the green light will turn on, heater stop working and keeping constant temperature 78°F. Accuracy:±3°F
- ★【Note】: Do not operate or leave product plugged in when it is outside of water, Children should be use this heater under adult's guidance.
- ★【SATISFACTION GUARANTEED】Our Aquarium Heater is built with durability in mind and safety for every design. In the remote possibility that you’re not satisfied with our product, just contact us, and we will gladly give you a new Aquarium Heater replacement. 12 Month Warranty and 24 Hour Professional After-sales Service.
- Please install and use this heater under rated voltage conditions(110V-120V/60Hz).
- This heater is designed for small fresh/sea water tanks, please do not use it in chemical water or any other heating purpose, it may damage the heater.
- Children should be use this heater under adult's guidance.
- Manufacture: PULACO
- Product Dimensions: 5.5 x 1.2 x 2.7 inches; 4.48 Ounces
- Editor's Impressions Of The PULACO PL-168
- Heat Quality [star rating='5']
- Quality [star rating='3.7']
- Value For Money [star rating='3.5']
- Affordability [star rating='4.7']
PULACO PL-168 Final Thoughts
"I would call that a win."It took me a few days slowly turning the dial up to finally get it where I wanted. I have it set to 81F to get a 77F water temp. Checked the accuracy of the heater with an infrared thermometer. You program it for temperature you want your tank to be. Temperature is slightly off by running a little warmer. The heater is easy; turn the dial to set temp and plug in. The suction cups are large, high quality and seem to stick great.
Overall Score
4.5
(1130 Points)

Honorable Mentions - More Top Selling Small Aquarium Heaters
5. 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)

6. hygger 50W 100W Submersible Digital Display Mini Aquarium Heater for Small Fish Tank, Compact and Fa...
User Ratings: 67 10
hygger First Impressions
"This heater works great."The red light means it's off, blue light means the temperature is constant. It does blend well in some setups and may look bulky in others. I have had to turn the dial to about 78-79 for the tank to stay around 76 degrees. This does a great job at regulating the temp in my 10 gallon. This heater works, but the dial it isn't very accurate. My heater is fully submerged underwater and works perfectly fine. The bonus digital thermometer it came with has been super helpful, and is accurate.
- hygger 50W 100W Submersible Digital Display Mini Aquarium Heater for Small Fish Tank, Compact and Fast Heating Thermostat, with External Controller and Built-in Thermometer, for Betta Turtle
- 【Compact Small Heater】110-120V/60HZ oval shape design little aquarium heater, fast heating for small fish tank. 50W tank heater is for 1-6.5gallon, 100W tank heater is for 6.5-13 gallon. Heater Dimension: 2.7x1.4x 4.5 inch. The power cord is 5ft, long enough for use indoors. With 2 strong suction cups at the back side of the betta heater, it's easy to install it on to glass, acrylic or plastic tank
- 【External Controller】easy to set the temp on the controller, only show farenheit temp, you can set the temp range from 63℉ to 94℉, temp accuracy 1℉. Every time you set the temp, just press the button over and over until it reaches to your desired temp, then stop and wait the digit flashing for 3 times, then setting is done. Keep the controller away from water, it's not waterproof
- 【Digital Display】with led display on the midle of the heater front side, when the fish tank heater is heating, there indicator light above the digit is on red, when it stop heating, the light is off. The heater with a built-in thermometer, when temp setting is done, the led will show the water temp all the time. The led will display the set temp digit only when you press the controller
- 【Reliable Thermostat】this an automatic aquarium thermostat, after finishing the temp setting, you can be confidence on that it will maintain the tank water at the temp you set. The tank heater will stop heating when the water temp reaches to set temp, it will restart to heating when the water temp is 1℉ off the set temp. If the water temp is over 95℉, the heater will auto shut off and led displaying HH, it will work normally again when the water temp is lower than 95℉
- 【Shut off When Out of Water】please note that this a fully submersible aquarium heater for fresh water and saltwater tank, when the top part of the heater is out of water it will auto shut off and the led displaying E1, when fully in water again it will return to normal work again
- Compact and small shape, with plastic guard.
- It has memory function if power failure happens.
- With 2 strong suction cups, can be replaced.
- Manufacture: hygger
- Product Dimensions: 2.76 x 1.38 x 4.53 inches; 9.59 Ounces
- Editor's Impressions Of The hygger
- Heat Quality [star rating='3.7']
- Quality [star rating='3.4']
- Value For Money [star rating='3.3']
- Affordability [star rating='3.2']
hygger Final Thoughts
"I have a 5."I appreciate the exterior temp readout and control module. I will definitely be buying another one for my other tanks at bigger one. I adjusted the set temperature a little lower to be more in the range I wanted. What more could you ask for great job Hygger Duncan. The heater is being used in a 40 gallon breeder. When i installed them, i let them sit in the tanks without power for 6-24 hours. Temperature is slightly off by running a little warmer.
Overall Score
4.2
(875 Points)

7. Penn-Plax Aquarium Heater Fully Submersible Within 1 Degree of Accuracy 75 Watt Heats Up to 15 Gallo...
User Ratings: 64 10
Penn-Plax CH850 First Impressions
"Quality was amazing."I have a few of these and I use them in my 55 gallons tanks and a 29 gallon tank. Or better yet, conceal it to the back corner. I used to try those other cheap heaters sold on amazon. I went ahead and went with the the larger 300W for my 45 gallon. The line is there due to regulations in certain countries. Sometimes it gets outside of it's ability to cool but only within a few degrees. Sometimes it gets outside of it's ability to cool but only within a few degrees.
- Penn-Plax Aquarium Heater Fully Submersible Within 1 Degree of Accuracy 75 Watt Heats Up to 15 Gallon Tank
- Aquarium heater sets and maintains the temperature in your tank within 1 degree accuracy.
- Features both Fahrenheit and Celsius temperature with easy to read gage.
- Heater is fully submersible and can be placed horizontally or vertically in your tank.
- Has a preset temperature to 76 degrees Fahrenheit but is also easily programmed.
- Heater is safe to use on smaller fish tanks and aquariums up to 10 gallons in size.
- Manufacture: Monster Pets
- Product Dimensions: 7 x 1.5 x 3 inches; 1 Ounces
- Editor's Impressions Of The Penn-Plax CH850
- Heat Quality [star rating='3.3']
- Quality [star rating='3.6']
- Value For Money [star rating='3.8']
- Affordability [star rating='4.2']
Penn-Plax CH850 Final Thoughts
"I angled it."My heater is fully submerged underwater and works perfectly fine. They promptly fixed the issue without any delays or drama. But I am single and don't have to worry about this. This is only day one though, so I shall keep an eye one it. Come on Fluval, expect better from you. I was amazed how quickly I got to my temperature I need it 78 degrees. There is no protection from it banging on the glass tank.
Overall Score
4.2
(848 Points)

8. PGFUNNY 25W Aquarium Heater, Fish Tank Heater for Betta Smart Thermostat, Slim Design Fit 3 to 5 Gal...
User Ratings: 69 7
PGFUNNY First Impressions
"Just bought a second one!"This heater warmed it right up and now my Betta and guppies are more active. My heater is fully submerged underwater and works perfectly fine. Temperature is slightly off by running a little warmer. There is no protection from it banging on the glass tank. Well worth the money the first one I bought still works great. The temperature lights up so it's very easy to read. I have a 10gallon tank that was at 72 degrees.
- PGFUNNY 25W Aquarium Heater, Fish Tank Heater for Betta Smart Thermostat, Slim Design Fit 3 to 5 Gallon Tank, with Thermometer Strips
- 【Fully Automatic Temperature Control Chip】: Submersible Aquarium heater works in intermittent operation mode,temperature regulate between on 77℉ - 82℉, Unlike the traditional manually adjusted fish tank heaters, no need to set. and will automatically turn on/off to achieve the setting temperature constantly and stably, Energy-efficient.
- 【Suitable for 3-5 Gallon Tank】: Fish Tank Heater 25 watt powerful and slim design fit for small fish tank. The Way of Measure Watt Heater for Your Fish Tank Needing: Watt=(Tank's Length*Wide*Water Height) /1000*2.
- 【Advanced Materials】: sturdy engineering plastic. It has anti-explosion, anti-scalding function, high temperature resistance and high safety. Suitable for aquarium pets such as turtles and fry. Length - 5.35 inch, Width - 0.9inch, Thickness - 0.63inch.
- 【Come with Thermometer Strips】: By using this Thermometer Strips, you will be able to monitor. An easy to identify blue color shows the current temperature of your aquarium water. Temperature Strips is for reference only. Note: The temperature strips should stick on the outside of fish box and level with the heater. due to the different materials of glass , the shown temperature may be delayed.
- 【Quality Assurance】: This product fish tank heater have certificated by CE, ROHS, FCC certifications. Anti-explosion, Waterproof, Scald-preventing, safe operation for pet betta fish.Working power 25w, frequency: 50/60Hz, voltage: 110-120V, waterproof rating IP68.
- Manufacture: ZENGH
- Editor's Impressions Of The PGFUNNY
- Heat Quality [star rating='4.1']
- Quality [star rating='4.7']
- Value For Money [star rating='3.5']
- Affordability [star rating='3.9']
PGFUNNY Final Thoughts
"Works great."This does a great job at regulating the temp in my 10 gallon. Well I bought a second one took me only one trying to get the right temperature. The heater is being used in a 40 gallon breeder. I love the heater otherwise, but I'm afraid some water has gotten inside the heater. I'm in the process of setting up for tanks. Well I bought a second one took me only one trying to get the right temperature. We would consider a replacement and then we would return the defective unit.
Overall Score
4.3
(724 Points)

9. VIBIRIT Aquarium Heater,Betta Fish Tank Heater 25W Smart Small Aquarium Heater,Energy Efficient Subm...
User Ratings: 66 8
VIBIRIT First Impressions
"There was only~0."It's only been set up for a month we'll see how well it does in a few months. After several weeks of running the heater. Just be careful and keep an eye on your temp settings when you have kids over! I noticed my old hygger heater beginning to fail and my wife ordered this one. This product came in the nick of time! I went ahead and went with the the larger 300W for my 45 gallon. It does blend well in some setups and may look bulky in others.
- VIBIRIT Aquarium Heater,Betta Fish Tank Heater 25W Smart Small Aquarium Heater,Energy Efficient Submersible Thermostat + Thermometer Sticker
- Fully Automatic Temperature Control Chip:VIBIRIT submersible aquarium heater automatically adjusts the temperature between 75°F and 82°F (24°C to 28°C). It is different from the traditional manual adjustment of the aquarium heater and does not need to be set. And will automatically turn on/off to achieve the setting temperature constantly and stably, Energy-efficient.
- Advanced Materials: sturdy engineering plastic. It has anti-explosion, anti-scalding function, high temperature resistance and high safety. Suitable for aquarium pets such as turtles and fry. Length - 5.35 inch, Width - 0.9inch, Thickness - 0.63inch.
- 25W Fish Tank Heater is suitable for 3 to 5 gallons and can be used in mini fish tanks and aquariums. The super-designed suction cups hold the heater tightly in the aquarium. Easy to hide in the water tank.
- Included Temperature Sticker: You can attach the temperature sticker to the surface of the water tank(don't put in the water), through which you can monitor. The easy-to-recognize blue color indicates the current temperature of your aquarium water. Temperature bar is for reference only
- Parameters and Quality Assurance: working power 25w, frequency: 50/60Hz, voltage: 110-120V, waterproof rating IP68. This product aquarium heater has passed CE, ROHS, FCC certification. Explosion-proof, waterproof, anti-scalding, high temperature and other safe operation.
- Manufacture: VIBIRIT
- Editor's Impressions Of The VIBIRIT
- Heat Quality [star rating='4.3']
- Quality [star rating='4.4']
- Value For Money [star rating='4.7']
- Affordability [star rating='4.4']
VIBIRIT Final Thoughts
"Works just as advertised!"The temperatures are pretty accurate. I noticed my old hygger heater beginning to fail and my wife ordered this one. I left seller feedback yesterday but have yet to hear from the seller. I will definitely be buying another one for my other tanks at bigger one. But my guys don't read them and don't listen! The suction cups are large, high quality and seem to stick great. Or better yet, conceal it to the back corner.
Overall Score
4.3
(706 Points)

10. Hygger Mini Inline Quartz Glass Aquarium Heater with External Controller, Adjustable Submersible Bet...
User Ratings: 70 6
hygger First Impressions
"Great heater."Keeps the water consistent and it's easy to adjust! The controller is easy to use, very accurate and reliable. I like the fact that it comes with a digital thermometer. I use this little heater for my 10 gallon quarantine tank. And kids love pushing all sorts of buttons. So far I like it setup was super easy. I have a 10gallon tank that was at 72 degrees.
- Hygger Mini Inline Quartz Glass Aquarium Heater with External Controller, Adjustable Submersible Betta Fish Tank Thermostat 50W/100W
- 【For Fish Tank 5-15 gallon】50W aquarium heater, voltage AC110-120V 60HZ, power cord is 4.6ft. Heater rod length is 5 inch, mini compact heater for small fish tank use. Perfect for betta tank. A very compact heater, easy to hide in the tank
- 【Automatic Stop & Restart】Effectively maintain the tank water in the constant temp you set, stop heating when water temp reaches to the set temp and restart heating when the water temp is 1-2℉ below the set temp.The indicator light on the controller will be on red when it's heating, will be off when it stop heating
- 【With Built-in Thermometer】you can set the the temp from 68℉ to 90℉,temp exactness is within 2 degrees in fahrenheit. There is a built-in thermometer in the heater to detect the water temp, not need to buy seperate thermometer
- 【Durable Quartz Glass】this aquarium heater tube is heat-resistant quartz glass made, excellent in explosion-proof, can be used in fresh water and salt water aquariums, white alundum sand as the heat-conducting media, service life can be 3 years or more
- 【Fully Submersible】this fish tank heater is waterproof, must be fully submerged in water when working, place it horizontally or vertically near the water intake or where the way of water flow
- Manufacture: hygger
- Editor's Impressions Of The hygger
- Heat Quality [star rating='5']
- Quality [star rating='4.3']
- Value For Money [star rating='4.3']
- Affordability [star rating='5']
hygger Final Thoughts
"Buy with confidence!"Those turned out to be a hit and miss. When i installed them, i let them sit in the tanks without power for 6-24 hours. --The heater itself is a bit shorter if your tank is a short one. I bought a similar one at the pet store and it barely worked. But my guys don't read them and don't listen! I am very happy with this purchase. So when I first received it it didn't work and I was very disappointed.
Overall Score
4.4
(475 Points)
