Editor's Choice - Our Favorite Brightwell Aquatics Aquarium Starter Kits

1. Brightwell Aquatics MicroBacter Dry Rock Bacteria Starter Kit

User Ratings: 54 15

Brightwell Aquatics DRSK100 First Impressions

"Really not much room."

I absolutely love this eight gallon tank. If you are into dwarf shrimp that is. I'm a first-time fish parent, and this is my first filtered aquarium. Of course the tank is an odd shape in itself lol. He was being suctioned to the filter. So I now have a little cubby that my fish uses to hide. Keep in mind that the tank, light and heater will require a total of three outlets.

  • Brightwell Aquatics MicroBacter Dry Rock Bacteria Starter Kit
  • Contains QuikCycl (60ml) MicroBacterStart XLM (125ml) and MicroBacter Clean (500ml) for any beginner or expert hobbyist to start a new aquarium set-up; treats a 100-gal tank for up to 7 weeks
  • QuikCycl gives professional nutrients to your aquarium for fishless cycling
  • MicroBacterStart XLM is a professional strength live tank starter nitrifying bioculture for rapidly cycling new marine aquariums set-ups in 5-7 days
  • MicroBacter Clean designed to target and clean surfaces of live rock coral decorations and tank walls
  • Made in the USA
  • Manufacture: Brightwell Aquatics
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Brightwell Aquatics DRSK100
  • Quality [star rating='4.4']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.5']
  • Affordability [star rating='2.7']

Brightwell Aquatics DRSK100 Final Thoughts

"- A pump and filter."

Will not grow anything aside from Anubias and moss balls. I bought this to basically replace a 5 gallon tank and make a new planted version. So don't be mislead by the image on the box with five guppies. So I now have a little cubby that my fish uses to hide. The rule of thumb is one small fish per gallon. It is perfect for small places like a kitchen counter, night stand, or even a desk. My plants have been doing fine and the filter and lights have worked really well.

Overall Score
3.6

[star rating="3.6"]
(8 Points)

2. hygger Long Stainless Steel Premium Aquarium Tools, 4 PCS Aquatic Plant Tweezers Scissors Spatula Ki...

User Ratings: 78 2

hygger First Impressions

"Filter is quiet."

I always had bubbles on the front of my tank no matter how I faced the tubes. It also comes with a built in 3D back round. I've had it for a few days now and had zero problems hooking everything up. Again, heater and light if you are doing real plants. It's probably fine, but I don't like it at all. My beta seems to be adjusting well. Problem is, the glass sits flush with that top edge.

  • hygger Long Stainless Steel Premium Aquarium Tools, 4 PCS Aquatic Plant Tweezers Scissors Spatula Kits Comes with 1 Cleaning Cloth, for Fish Tank Starters
  • 【4 in 1 Aquarium Tools】the tool set includes one 10.6" curved scissors, one 12.5" sand spatula, one 10.6" straight tweezers, one 10.6" curved tweezers, one 7.5"x 7.5"cleaning cloth. It also comes with a durable velvety bag to help you to store these tools well after use. The tool kits would be a nice gift for aquarium beginners or experienced ones.
  • 【Premium Stainless Steel Made】the 4 pcs of tools are made of quality stainless steel, it's sturdy, good grip and no rusting. The aquatic plant tools are black color, looks cool and premium, a kind of black paint was sprayed on the whole tool to prevent the metal tools get rusting. Keep the tools dry and clean after using is also very important to prevent rusts.
  • 【Perfect for Aquarium Starters】must have for aquascaping, it would be great tool kit to make working in your tank much easier. We suggest for small and mini fish tank use. All the tools are sturdy,easy to use. In order to make the tools look and perform like brand new, please hang them to dry after using them, then store them back to the velvety pouch.
  • 【Wide Application tool Set】helpful tools for aquarium plants tidying , tiny gardening, bonsai pruning. The curved pruning scissors with thick blades, sharp enough for easy trimming. The 2 anti slip desgin tweezers is good for adjusting, picking out something, planting or feedings. The sand spatula is good for smoothing out substrate and scrapping the algae.
  • 【Tools Comes with Protective Ends】When you take the tools out of the pouch, you will find protective ends on the pointed end of the tools, please don't throw them away, you can use them again after you finishing all the work. It's for protecting your hands from stabbing or scratching when you take them out next time.
  • Manufacture: hygger
  • Item Weight: 9.3 ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The hygger
  • Quality [star rating='4.5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.8']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.9']

hygger Final Thoughts

"I shut mine off."

That piece is very poorly designed. You are getting a premium quality tank for a reasonable price. Will be buying a second of these tanks for my step daughter's Betta. I put shrimp and guppies in it and they love it. The tubes get so dirty so fast and it messes up the flow for the filter. And now, the pros and cons in my opinion. It also comes with a built in 3D back round.

Overall Score
4.7

[star rating="4.7"]
(101 Points)

3. Fluval Chi II Aquarium Set, 5 gal,White, 10505

User Ratings: 61 15

Fluval 10505 First Impressions

"Recommend!"

It's probably fine, but I don't like it at all. It literally made me provide others with a true review. Even though it's open about half way up the heater. Of course the tank is an odd shape in itself lol. I'm working on a planted tank, will decide what fish will work. And it's a little awkward to put things in like a heater and stuff. The curve radius also makes it hard to clean the glass on the edges.

  • Fluval Chi II Aquarium Set, 5 gal,White, 10505
  • Unique aquarium design creates perfect balance of sight and sound
  • 17 powerful led lights plus a permanent up light providing a gentle glow
  • Powerful filtration for sparkling, healthy water
  • 5 gallon glass aquarium, includes filter media
  • Measures 10 l x 10 w x 14.4 H inches
  • Manufacture: Fluval
  • Item Weight: 16 pounds
  • Product Dimensions: 14.4 x 14.4 x 17.5 inches
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Fluval 10505
  • Quality [star rating='4']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.5']
  • Affordability [star rating='5']

Fluval 10505 Final Thoughts

"Scratch that."

- Though the base is plastic, it's sturdy. Again, heater and light if you are doing real plants. It also sits on the bottom glass pane, not the edges of the viewing panes. 1 gallon that a Betta really needs a 3-5 gallon home so I purchased this one as well. It has been working just fine and maintaining temp. It literally made me provide others with a true review. It is perfect for small places like a kitchen counter, night stand, or even a desk.

Overall Score
4.0

[star rating="4"]
(397 Points)

4. Aqua Culture 1 Gallon Aquarium Tank Starter Kit

User Ratings: 19 22

Home Comforts First Impressions

"Perrrrfect!"

And it's a little awkward to put things in like a heater and stuff. It just sits under the tank with no way of holding the tank in place on top of it. This is a good deal for a complete setup, less the rocks for the bottom. I have this unit deployed for a couple of months now. This is especially important if you opt to keep tropical fish rather than a betta. Nothing came broke and everything is working. Stop now and BUY BUY BUY you will love it!

  • Aqua Culture 1 Gallon Aquarium Tank Starter Kit
  • 1-Gallon Aquarium Tank Starter Kit - perfect aquarium for beginners, children and adults.
  • Compact design fits almost anywhere - perfect for dorm, office or home.
  • Includes hood with seven watt incandescent lighting, state-of-the-art undergravel filter, air pump and tubing, fish food sample and water conditioner samples, plus set up and care guides.
  • Impact-resistant acrylic with seamless construction provides panoramic viewing without unsightly silicone seams.
  • Gravel, fish and plants not included.
  • Manufacture: Home Comforts
  • Product Dimensions: 10 x 9.5 x 6.5 inches; 1.55 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Home Comforts
  • Quality [star rating='2.7']
  • Value For Money [star rating='2.5']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.1']

Home Comforts Final Thoughts

"I gotta get them all!"

Instructions were easy to use and the filter system is relatively quiet. The pump is also as close to silent as you can get. The background is comes with is just super convenient! If you are into dwarf shrimp that is. And you can not take the background out of the tank,it is glued in! Problem is, the glass sits flush with that top edge. I say it's a good buy and a very nice tank.

Overall Score
3.1

[star rating="3.1"]
(44 Points)

5. Barrons Books Essential Guide to Choosing your Cold Water Aquarium Fish

Barrons Books First Impressions

"It's perfect!"

Bigger is always better for new people. It also comes with a built in 3D back round. The Mingdak strip is also waterproof and submersible so there's that. I think it's a great looking tank and I would definitely recommend it to others. I do use the filter housing to house a heater and co2 diffuser. Stop now and BUY BUY BUY you will love it! Advanced aquarium owners might find this space annoying.

  • Barrons Books Essential Guide to Choosing your Cold Water Aquarium Fish
  • Barrons Books Essential Guide to Choosing your Cold Water Aquarium Fish
  • Manufacture: Barron's Books
  • Product Dimensions: 9.92 x 7.09 x 0.47 inches; 12.7 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Barrons Books
  • Quality [star rating='4.3']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.6']
  • Affordability [star rating='5']

Barrons Books Final Thoughts

"Filter is quiet."

And it builds up a lot of algae so it needs to be cleaned more. It is very easy to set up and also comes with easy to understand instructions. The adjustable pump can be turned down really low so the flow does not bother a Beta. I'm a first-time fish parent, and this is my first filtered aquarium. The background adds a lot of depth that feels missing in a standard aquarium. Instructions were easy to use and the filter system is relatively quiet. I'm a first-time fish parent, and this is my first filtered aquarium.

Overall Score
5.0

[star rating="5"]
(1 Points)

6. Small Betta Fish Tank,Fish Bow Aquarium with Gravel Plants Rocks Feeder,Small Fish Tank for Turtle R...

User Ratings: 60 8

SPRICHIC First Impressions

"Was time to upgrade."

I have this unit deployed for a couple of months now. Incredibly happy with this purchase. Enough colors and gradients to please any demanding scaled pet. The background adds a lot of depth that feels missing in a standard aquarium. The filter is actually a pretty nice design. I put mine in the corner of my breakfast bar. The background is made very nicely and doesn't take up a whole lot of the tank.

  • Small Betta Fish Tank,Fish Bow Aquarium with Gravel Plants Rocks Feeder,Small Fish Tank for Turtle Reptile Jellyfish Goldfish Shrimp Moss Balls Insects,Table Decoration Box(2Pack Large Size White)
  • 【Aquarium Starter Kit】:Perfect Starter Aquarium for Children to Learn,micro-landscape Fish Tan,its Stylish Statement-Making It the Perfect Aquarium for Any Home or Office.
  • 【Multi-purpose Terrarium】: Use As a Mini Aquarium, Planted Tank, Plant Terrarium, Insect Terrarium,a Feeding Box for Small Reptiles,a Feeding Box for Small Ornamental Plants,a Feeding Pool for Seaweed and Small Corals,or Even As a Mini Bank to Hold Coins and Loose Change.
  • 【Made of Acrylic Glass】:Sturdy and Durable.clear Outside Which Provides a Clear View and Resistant to Impact. Unlike Glass Tanks Glued Together with Silicone, This Trendy Shaped Tank Puts to Rest Any Worries or Concerns About Possible Leaks.prevents the Fish from Jumping Out, Soft and Not Glare, Low Environmental Protection and Low Consumption.
  • 【Small and Stackable】:The Perfect Mini Tank for Displaying Multiple Species of Small Aquatic Life on Your Desk Without Sacrificing Space. combine Multiple Tanks to Build a Decoration Piece to Add Excitement and Beauty to Space.
  • 【Easy to Use】: Holding the Fish Tank with One Hand and Grasp the Transparent Parts on Both Sides, Grasp the Outer Frame with the Other Hand and Pull in the Opposite Direction to Open the Fish Tank.it Has a Feeding Hole at the Top, Which Can Feed the Fish Without Opening the Lid of the Fish Tank. It is Very Convenient. the Surface of the Fish Tank is Smooth and Easy to Clean.
  • Manufacture: SPRICHIC
  • Item Weight: 2 pounds
  • Product Dimensions: 6.3 x 5.7 x 4.2 inches
  • Editor's Impressions Of The SPRICHIC
  • Quality [star rating='4.5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.2']
  • Affordability [star rating='5']

SPRICHIC Final Thoughts

"Very happy."

No more then five or six tiny ones is my guess. That piece is very poorly designed. This is especially important if you opt to keep tropical fish rather than a betta. They're not nearly as sensitive as these little 2. So far I like it, and my betta seems to like it as well. I think it's a great looking tank and I would definitely recommend it to others. I dont use the filter, I covered up the filter vents with some netting.

Overall Score
4.1

[star rating="4.1"]
(92 Points)

7. Tetra Crescent Acrylic Aquarium Kit, Energy Efficient LEDs

User Ratings: 65 6

Tetra 29003 First Impressions

"Final note of warning."

- Though the base is plastic, it's sturdy. They're not nearly as sensitive as these little 2. They're not nearly as sensitive as these little 2. The heater was a no-name 200W UL certified. I dont use the filter, I covered up the filter vents with some netting. I bought this to basically replace a 5 gallon tank and make a new planted version. The adjustable pump can be turned down really low so the flow does not bother a Beta.

  • Tetra Crescent Acrylic Aquarium Kit, Energy Efficient LEDs
  • aquarium KIT Curved-front crescent-shaped aquarium kit is perfect for one goldfish or up to three community tropical fish
  • INCLUDES FILTER Includes Tetra Whisper Internal Power Filter to keep your tank clean and provide a healthy environment for pet fish
  • HIDDEN LIGHTS Bright-white energy-efficient LED lights are hidden inside the low-profile black cover
  • SEAMLESS TANK Offers unobstructed viewing of your underwater environment
  • 5 GALLON TANK Small size that’s perfect for a bedroom living room or dorm room (15 inches x 9 inches x 11 inches)
  • Manufacture: Tetra
  • Product Dimensions: 16.6 x 11.2 x 13.2 inches; 6 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Tetra 29003
  • Quality [star rating='3.4']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.4']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.9']

Tetra 29003 Final Thoughts

"Mine came scratch free."

It comes with the filter and lights. The light is fairly bright but insufficient for growing any decent live plants. So don't be mislead by the image on the box with five guppies. It is really just a trickle at the lowest setting. I didn't know that the background only goes halfway down the back of the tank. Instructions were easy to use and the filter system is relatively quiet. I wish I new about that before I got it.

Overall Score
4.3

[star rating="4.3"]
(765 Points)

8. Lightahead Artificial Mini Aquarium A Sensory Multi Colored LED Swimming Fish Tank with Bubbles

User Ratings: 62 12

Lightahead First Impressions

"- Decorative plants."

And it builds up a lot of algae so it needs to be cleaned more. Keep in mind that the tank, light and heater will require a total of three outlets. The shrimp sit on the wall and can hide in the back also. James spends his days swimming all around his tank and working on his bubble nest. I purchased the hygger heater and it has worked out perfectly too. I'm working on a planted tank, will decide what fish will work. Nothing came broke and everything is working.

  • Lightahead Artificial Mini Aquarium A Sensory Multi Colored LED Swimming Fish Tank with Bubbles
  • IMMERSE YOURSELF IN THE PEACE & CALM OF THE OCEAN:. Multi Colored Artificial Fish. This fascinating product is a alternative to a regular aquarium. Ideal for your desktop, children's room, living room and practically any other room in your house. Can be used as Night Light for any Kids room to help them sleep well.
  • Lightahead Artificial Aquarium Fish Tank includes 3 artificial fish. Tank Size – 4.8” x 3.5” x 9.0”.Tank has 3 colorful LED lights and comes with an ocean background wallpaper to give an illusion of a real coral reef. AC powered ( US Plug adapter i100v-240v ncluded. If you use in any other country you will need an adapter.). Can also run on 3 x AA Batteries (not included).
  • GREAT SENSORY STIMULATION PRODUCT: The gentle movement of colorful fish swimming rhythmically in a lighted tank create's a beautiful Tranquil, peaceful & soothing deep-sea ambiance which could help reduce stress & anxiety.Great for children, adults & seniors with special needs, including dementia ADHD & autism. May helps improve mood & well-being.
  • Simply fill up the tank with tap water, add 2-4 drops of dish washing detergent and see your aquarium come to life.
  • GREAT GIFT IDEA: Great gift for anyone who loves sea life or simply wants to make a unique design statement. It also makes an ideal gift and Decoration for Christmas, Holiday, Party, Home Office Bedroom Room Comes with Lightahead’s Guarantee of Satisfaction.
  • This attractive artificial aquarium creates the illusion of tropical fish and water in motion.
  • Cute little fish Bobbing & swimming in a colorful lighted sea bed come to life at the flick of a switch.
  • This is for those who do not want the hassle of having a real fish but always wanted an aquarium.
  • Manufacture: Lightahead
  • Product Dimensions: 9 x 3.5 x 4.8 inches; 15.2 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Lightahead
  • Quality [star rating='3.7']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.3']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.5']

Lightahead Final Thoughts

"It is non-adjustable."

I'm a first-time fish parent, and this is my first filtered aquarium. Once finished with both tanks will post pics of grass wall. The pump is also as close to silent as you can get. The background adds a lot of depth that feels missing in a standard aquarium. Best of luck if you purchase it this kit! Of course the tank is an odd shape in itself lol. All of this is explained in the instructions.

Overall Score
4.1

[star rating="4.1"]
(858 Points)

9. DADYPET Betta Fish Tank Aquarium Starter Kits 1 Gallon with LED Lighting, Plants, Pebbles, Pump

User Ratings: 54 21

DADYPET First Impressions

"Filter is quiet."

1 gallon that a Betta really needs a 3-5 gallon home so I purchased this one as well. The tubes get so dirty so fast and it messes up the flow for the filter. I dont use the filter, I covered up the filter vents with some netting. After reading only four reviews I was hesitant. Will not grow anything aside from Anubias and moss balls. I wish I new about that before I got it. The background is comes with is just super convenient!

  • DADYPET Betta Fish Tank Aquarium Starter Kits 1 Gallon with LED Lighting, Plants, Pebbles, Pump
  • Fish tank adopt LED lighting to bring your aquatic environment to life.
  • Manufactured of impact-resistant acrylic. Unlike glass tanks glued together with silicone, this stylish shaped fish tank solve concerns about possible leaks.
  • Easy to set up and maintain, this trendy fish Tank will look good wherever you place it. Dimensions: 9.25"L x 7.24"W x 10.43"H.
  • A great way to create a focal point in any room, ideal environment for youe house.
  • Capacity 1 gallons, general rule for tank size is one inch of fish per gallon, if you need a part or help, please feel free to contact us.
  • Manufacture: DADYPEY
  • Editor's Impressions Of The DADYPET
  • Quality [star rating='4.3']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.4']
  • Affordability [star rating='2.8']

DADYPET Final Thoughts

"The pump is very quiet."

Problem is, the glass sits flush with that top edge. It's really nice to have for betta fish that need to be in warm water. Will be buying a second of these tanks for my step daughter's Betta. The light is fairly bright but insufficient for growing any decent live plants. - it really only holds 4 gallons after you add gravel and decorations. This is going to be a sweet little setup! I would recommend those back flow connectors for the air pump.

Overall Score
3.7

[star rating="3.7"]
(135 Points)

10. Aqua Culture 10-gallon Aquarium Starter Kit

User Ratings: 64 20

AQUA CULTURE First Impressions

"This tank is super small."

It comes with the filter and lights. It comes with the filter and lights. - Though the base is plastic, it's sturdy. It's perfect for guppies, shrimp, bettas, neon tetras or any other small fish. I cant wait to set this up and get some shrimp and cardinal tetras in there. I would recommend those back flow connectors for the air pump. It literally made me provide others with a true review.

  • Aqua Culture 10-gallon Aquarium Starter Kit
  • Manufacture: Aquaculture
  • Editor's Impressions Of The AQUA CULTURE
  • Quality [star rating='2.9']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.7']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.3']

AQUA CULTURE Final Thoughts

"Perrrrfect!"

I bought this to basically replace a 5 gallon tank and make a new planted version. I've included a video of it running so you can judge for yourself. Nothing came broke and everything is working. So I ended up taking the filter out and replacing it with a sponge filter. It also sits on the bottom glass pane, not the edges of the viewing panes. The filter is actually a pretty nice design. I dont use the filter, I covered up the filter vents with some netting.

Overall Score
3.9

[star rating="3.9"]
(92 Points)

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