Editor's Choice - Our Favorite Ailinda Aquarium Test Kits

1. Ailinda CO2 Drop Checker Glass Aquarium Monitor CO2 Indicator for Planted Fish Tank

User Ratings: 68 9

Ailinda First Impressions

"Great strips."

I was having trouble keeping my fish tank water looking good. If you're looking for a quick-hit on a range of water quality these are the answer. Accurate results and much much cheaper than buying from a pet chain. These strips work very well and I have had consistent results with them. The nitrate test is a little finicky as most users will agree. 32 seconds and I have a reading and I'm on my way with no mess. 32 seconds and I have a reading and I'm on my way with no mess.

  • Ailinda CO2 Drop Checker Glass Aquarium Monitor CO2 Indicator for Planted Fish Tank
  • Material: Made of high quality glass, which is non-toxic, safe and durable.
  • The color is transparent and easy to be observed. It is used to monitor the level of CO2 in the aquarium, so that you can replace the water in time. Can keep the CO2 levels in your tank consistently by checking it regularly.
  • Widely applications: Suitable for fish farming tanks, aquariums, aquatic plants and aquaculture, etc. Monitoring CO2 levels in your planted aquarium is very important for the health of your plants and fish.
  • Make sure your test kit is clean. Drop the carbon dioxide indicator (not included) into the glass CO2 monitor and hang the inlet towards the inside of the aquarium. Wait for about two hours to know the result.
  • Apply to: Fish tank, aquarium, especially aquatic plants, tropical fish to watch and cultivate for fish tank. Monitor to be installed below the water surface about 10cm, it is recommended not to install too far from the refiner.
  • Manufacture: Ailinda
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Ailinda
  • Test Accuracy [star rating='3.7']
  • Quality [star rating='3.9']
  • Value For Money [star rating='5']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.6']

Ailinda Final Thoughts

"Exactly as pictured."

I will now test my water periodically to make sure everything is ok. It does not test ammonia but that's clear in the description and bottle. I set up a bunch of 20 gallon tanks for fry and stuff. These strips are not to be trusted as a primary testing method for aquariums. I have not had any problem whatsoever. The key is that you are looking for changes. They quickly shipped me a new product.

Overall Score
4.3

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

2. capetsma 9 in 1 Aquarium Test Strips, Best Kit for Water Quality Testing for Freshwater Saltwater Po...

User Ratings: 50 16

capetsma First Impressions

"Just sayin'."

These strips are not to be trusted as a primary testing method for aquariums. Despite what it says on the chart, oxygen at 6mg will cause fish to start gulping. Besides these few flaws I have to say it's a great starter kit. If you're out for speed, but with less accuracy get the dip tests. I'm still not sure about the chlorine site. It's really accurate and makes me feel like I'm a scientist while doing it. You never want to wait too long and the tank crashes and has major problems.

  • capetsma 9 in 1 Aquarium Test Strips, Best Kit for Water Quality Testing for Freshwater Saltwater Pool and Pond - Test pH, Nitrate, Nitrite, Carbonate, Hardness, Chlorine, Alkalinity, Iron, Copper
  • 9 TESTS IN 1 COMPLETE KIT - Contains 1 capetsma 9-IN-1 TEST STRIPS Freshwater and Saltwater Aquarium Test Strips 50-Count in sealed Box. Monitors levels of pH ✓ Nitrate ✓ Nitrite✓ Carbonate ✓ General Hardness ( TDS ) ✓ Free Chlorine ✓ Total Alkalinity ✓ Iron ✓ Copper.
  • EASY & FAST RESULTS - Simply dip a strip into liquid and compare it to chart. Quickly get test results in seconds, No private laboratory testing or mail-in analysis required.
  • HELP MAINTAIN HEALTHY ENVIRONMENT IN YOUR TANK - prevent invisible water problems that can be harmful to fish and aquarium plants, Weekly test the water if water or fish problems appear, monitor your fish tank(aquarium), ensure your fishes to grow happier and healthier. Also it can help test the levels of all sorts of products such as drinking water, pools, spas, laundry, dishwasher, urine and more.
  • EXPIRATION DATE: 2C ~ 30C dry place and keep away from light, valid for 24 months. Pls notice the production date is on the label, below the color chart, LOT: 2019061401 means it is the first batch on 06/14/2019.
  • Use for weekly monitoring and when water or fish problems appear
  • Manufacture: Capetsma
  • Product Dimensions: 2.09 x 2.09 x 4.72 inches; 2.26 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The capetsma
  • Test Accuracy [star rating='4.6']
  • Quality [star rating='3.5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.2']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.4']

capetsma Final Thoughts

"Simple and easy to use."

I will now test my water periodically to make sure everything is ok. If you keep freshwater fish, you will need this test kit. Will definitely buy again, if we ever run out! This kit is extremely accurate and very well designed for convenient use and storage. My tap water actually was really green and was a very close match to the 1. Wasn't labeled that way in the descriptor. I even got an extra 32 test strips as an added bonus.

Overall Score
3.8

[star rating="3.8"]
(613 Points)

3. Sera 50 Piece Quick Test

User Ratings: 70 1

Sera 4960 First Impressions

"Best strips ever."

Very helpful for checking the water in our tank. It does take some time though to actually get it done. So I got these to try and I love them. Unfortunately nitrates still might be the most important test, at least for me it is. Very helpful for checking the water in our tank. They showed the same results as these for the sites they had in common. This is essential for an accurate reading.

  • Sera 50 Piece Quick Test
  • Quick water testing
  • Check 5 water parameters within 1 minute
  • PH, kH, gH, NO3, NO2
  • Manufacture: Sera North America, Inc.
  • Product Dimensions: 1.18 x 1.18 x 4.33 inches; 1.12 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Sera 4960
  • Test Accuracy [star rating='4.4']
  • Quality [star rating='3.7']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.1']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.7']

Sera 4960 Final Thoughts

"However, it is not."

Then put the cap on the test vial and invert it several times. The kH pad sometimes has the same problem as well. I take every precaution about the chlorine, and trust the strips for everything else. I started wearing gloves when I use the kit. These strips are not to be trusted as a primary testing method for aquariums. I have some pretty lousy water where I live. This kit is extremely accurate and very well designed for convenient use and storage.

Overall Score
4.5

[star rating="4.5"]
(385 Points)

4. HI772-26 HI755-26 Alkalinity Checker Reagent (25 Tests) - Hanna Instruments

User Ratings: 84 1

Hanna Instruments First Impressions

"Thank you."

These helped me check the levels and they were easy to use. So I got these to try and I love them. It is one small part of the overall aquarium ownership experience. Just be careful, after all these are chemicals. They showed the same results as these for the sites they had in common. Strips are accurate as far as I can tell. 6 showing the test strip as an accurate reading.

  • HI772-26 HI755-26 Alkalinity Checker Reagent (25 Tests) - Hanna Instruments
  • This reagent works with both the 755 & 772 Hanna checker. It may come with the tag 755-26 or 772-26, both reagents work with both checkers.
  • Pre-made reagents for ease of use. Prepared with high purity chemicals.
  • Marked with expiration date and lot number for traceability.
  • Small size and big convenience.
  • Manufacture: Hanna Instruments
  • Part Number: HI 772-26
  • Material: Plastic
  • Item Weight: 2.39 ounces
  • Product Dimensions: 4.5 x 1.9 x 1.9 inches
  • Batteries Included?: No
  • Batteries Required?: No
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Hanna Instruments
  • Test Accuracy [star rating='5']
  • Quality [star rating='4.3']
  • Value For Money [star rating='5']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.7']

Hanna Instruments Final Thoughts

"Perfect for quick checks."

This is no different so I wouldn't knock this product for that. Accurate results and much much cheaper than buying from a pet chain. Tetra has always done that and I will continue to use their products. Accurate results and much much cheaper than buying from a pet chain. Having the key on the bottle is very helpful, it won't get lost. If you want accurate pH get the API liquid test that includes pH and high pH. The key is that you are looking for changes.

Overall Score
4.7

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

5. 6 in 1 Aquarium Test Strips with Thermometer | Fast & Accurate Water Quality Testing Kit for Aquariu...

User Ratings: 74 3

SJ WAVE First Impressions

"Will purchase again!"

It is easy to use and accurate enough. It helps get you in the ballpark with your water perimeters. To test it, I bought a 5 pack of 5 site test strips from Petco. Well I found out why they were gulping so bad. I started wearing gloves when I use the kit. I have not had any problem whatsoever. I even got an extra 32 test strips as an added bonus.

  • 6 in 1 Aquarium Test Strips with Thermometer | Fast & Accurate Water Quality Testing Kit for Aquariums & Ponds | Monitors pH, Hardness, Nitrate, Temperature and More (100 Tests)
  • HOME TESTING KIT - Ready to use, for your convenience; tests for 7 most critical parameters in fish tanks, pH, Chlorine, General Hardness, Carbonate Hardness, Nitrate, Nitrite and Temperature
  • ACURATE AND FAST RESULTS - Strips come with a detailed color chart, detect low levels of impurities and foreign substances, help prevent any invisible water problems and keep your fish safe
  • EASY TO Use: Simply dip the strip in water and compare with color chart for instant and reliable results. No more going to the pet stores because tests can be done at home in just one minute
  • SHELF LIFE – 100 testing strips packed in separate packages; strips in an open package need to be used within 3 months, so you can test your aquarium water quality at regular intervals and don't have to rush using all 100 strips
  • MULTIPLE USES – Can be used to test betta fish tanks, cold water or tropical fish tanks, shrimp tanks, plant aquariums, fish ponds and any other freshwater aquariums
  • Manufacture: SJ WAVE
  • Editor's Impressions Of The SJ WAVE
  • Test Accuracy [star rating='3.8']
  • Quality [star rating='4.8']
  • Value For Money [star rating='5']
  • Affordability [star rating='5']

SJ WAVE Final Thoughts

"It's worth it."

The strips are packaged well so they stay fresh and ready to use. Always nice to get something extra! Overall, I am very happy with this kit. Despite what it says on the chart, oxygen at 6mg will cause fish to start gulping. About my pic color difference of the water and the chart and about the bad reviews. It is easy to use and accurate enough. I found running all the tests took me around 10 minutes.

Overall Score
4.6

[star rating="4.6"]
(314 Points)

6. Seachem MultiTest Marine Basic Test Kit

User Ratings: 53 15

Seachem 116099004 First Impressions

"I used API prior to this."

Having the key on the bottle is very helpful, it won't get lost. Every test I do takes just a few drops. I will now test my water periodically to make sure everything is ok. To test it, I bought a 5 pack of 5 site test strips from Petco. Overall, I am very happy with this kit. I mean some people would never do a water test at all. It does not test ammonia but that's clear in the description and bottle.

  • Seachem MultiTest Marine Basic Test Kit
  • 75 test
  • For saltwater use only
  • Unique indicator
  • Four tests in one
  • 75 test
  • Unique indicator
  • Four tests in one
  • Manufacture: Seachem Laboratories, Inc.
  • Product Dimensions: 4.6 x 2.8 x 2.5 inches; 6.4 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Seachem 116099004
  • Test Accuracy [star rating='4.4']
  • Quality [star rating='4']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.8']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.3']

Seachem 116099004 Final Thoughts

"So they're measuring!"

You mostly find them using API also. These helped me check the levels and they were easy to use. Probably won't buy again because of the bleeding issues. The nitrate test is a little finicky as most users will agree. My tap water actually was really green and was a very close match to the 1. If you're looking for a quick-hit on a range of water quality these are the answer. Nice to have in hand when you own an aquarium.

Overall Score
3.8

[star rating="3.8"]
(19 Points)

7. Ecological Labs Carbonate Alkalinity KH Test Kit

User Ratings: 62 9

Ecological Labs TESTKH First Impressions

"Easy to use."

I take every precaution about the chlorine, and trust the strips for everything else. Definitely recommend this test strip for anyone who has a Betta fish as a pet. They test pretty accurate when run against my chemical tests. I have not had any problem whatsoever. Just be careful, after all these are chemicals. Some of the readings develop better than others. No issues so far, test strips work well.

  • Ecological Labs Carbonate Alkalinity KH Test Kit
  • Uses oxygen power to break down unsightly debris
  • It is especially helpful on streams and waterfalls
  • It oxidizes and detoxifies to help prevent pond odors
  • Manufacture: BFG Supply
  • Item Weight: 2.4 ounces
  • Product Dimensions: 1 x 1 x 1 inches
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Ecological Labs TESTKH
  • Test Accuracy [star rating='5']
  • Quality [star rating='3.4']
  • Value For Money [star rating='5']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.7']

Ecological Labs TESTKH Final Thoughts

"It's very easy to do."

Takes about 5 minutes to check everything. I found running all the tests took me around 10 minutes. Takes about 5 minutes to check everything. I will now test my water periodically to make sure everything is ok. Despite what it says on the chart, oxygen at 6mg will cause fish to start gulping. It helps get you in the ballpark with your water perimeters. This spreads out the 6 month expiration date after opening.

Overall Score
4.2

[star rating="4.2"]
(14 Points)

8. AquaCycle Large Aquaponics Fish-less Cycling Kit

User Ratings: 44

The Aquaponic Source ABAAS007 First Impressions

"Easy to use."

A brand new aquarium will experience what is called a cycle. I like API products and find them the most accurate. This is not the right way to use this test, as it took me awhile to realize this. Well I found out why they were gulping so bad. I take every precaution about the chlorine, and trust the strips for everything else. Strips are accurate as far as I can tell. I don't know so much about how precise these are.

  • AquaCycle Large Aquaponics Fish-less Cycling Kit
  • Establish nitrifying bacteria in your aquaponics system (a process called “cycling”) before adding fish
  • Powdered, soluble pure ammonia, powdered, soluble seaweed, and nitrifying bacteria are all included.
  • Detailed instructions of how the process works & how to fully cycle your system BEFORE adding fish.
  • Includes a Data Tracking Chart so you can follow your system's progress and spot problems early.
  • This kit has enough material to fully cycle systems with up to 500 gallons of water.
  • Manufacture: The Aquaponic Source
  • Item Weight: 3 pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The The Aquaponic Source ABAAS007
  • Test Accuracy [star rating='3.7']
  • Quality [star rating='4.9']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.1']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.8']

The Aquaponic Source ABAAS007 Final Thoughts

"25 from 0."

To test it, I bought a 5 pack of 5 site test strips from Petco. If you keep freshwater fish, you will need this test kit. Their Whisper 1-5 filter cartridges have skyrocketed in price and become a scarcity. These are do helpful with maintaining your tank. I found running all the tests took me around 10 minutes. I will now test my water periodically to make sure everything is ok. This spreads out the 6 month expiration date after opening.

Overall Score
3.9

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

9. Freshwater Aquarium Test Strips 5 in 1 - Pond or Fish Tank Test Kit for Testing pH Nitrite Nitrate G...

User Ratings: 73 12

AQUA CARE PRO First Impressions

"00 becomes 40."

Will definitely buy again, if we ever run out! This is a kit to test for my aquarium water quality. Tank lids, water additives and more have seen the same effect. It does take some time though to actually get it done. Dip it in the water horizontally and keep it horizontal and read it against bottle. I'm still not sure about the chlorine site. I set up a bunch of 20 gallon tanks for fry and stuff.

  • Freshwater Aquarium Test Strips 5 in 1 - Pond or Fish Tank Test Kit for Testing pH Nitrite Nitrate General & Carbonate Hardness (GH & KH) - Easy to Read Wide Strips & Full Water Testing Guide, 116 Ct
  • KEEP YOUR AQUARIUM OR POND HEALTHY - Monitoring your aquarium’s water quality is the most important thing for keeping tropical fish healthy and vibrant, and your tank looking beautiful.
  • QUICK & EASY TO USE - Designed by experts, this 5 in 1 freshwater aquarium test kit is fast and easier to use than liquid test kits. Aqua Care Pro strips are wider and have non-bleeding colors, making them easier to hold, dip, and read.
  • DESIGNED FOR AQUARIUMS AND PONDS - Aqua Care Pro strips test for General Hardness (GH), Nitrite, Nitrate, pH, and Carbonate Hardness (KH). The test results are in the proper range for aquarium and pond keeping.
  • ECONOMICAL PACKAGING - Why buy more strips than you need? This kit includes 104 + 12 strips for testing twice a week (one year’s supply + 12 extra strips). Half of the strips are packaged separately to maintain freshness.
  • 24/7 CUSTOMER SUPPORT - The test kit includes detailed instructions for testing, understanding your results, and an e-book with helpful tips written by 30+ year industry experts. You’ll also have 24/7 access to our expert US-based aquatic biologists.
  • Manufacture: Health Metric
  • Editor's Impressions Of The AQUA CARE PRO
  • Test Accuracy [star rating='5']
  • Quality [star rating='3.7']
  • Value For Money [star rating='5']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.9']

AQUA CARE PRO Final Thoughts

"Thank you."

No one brand is going to guarantee against this. In my opinion they arent quite as accurate as master test kits either. I have a 55 gallon tank with a few large goldfish. It helps get you in the ballpark with your water perimeters. My results are never all over the place like other reviewers. As you can see in comparison the only difference was the Nitrate. I get a consistent reading every time, retests included.

Overall Score
4.3

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

10. Salifert AMPT Ammonia Test Kit

User Ratings: 73 4

Salifert AMPT First Impressions

"Thanks Seachem."

It was also kinda hard to get exactly 5ml Into the tubes. I have not found that to be true for myself. The caps do leak a tiny bit on the tubes. They test pretty accurate when run against my chemical tests. I started wearing gloves when I use the kit. I even got an extra 32 test strips as an added bonus. Nice to have in hand when you own an aquarium.

  • Salifert AMPT Ammonia Test Kit
  • Fast, easy, and accurate
  • Kit includes test vial, measuring syringe, and reagent
  • Approximately 50 tests per kit
  • Top choice of Aquarium Professionals worldwide
  • Made in holland
  • Manufacture: RPDFE
  • Product Dimensions: 4.3 x 2 x 5 inches; 3.39 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Salifert AMPT
  • Test Accuracy [star rating='3.7']
  • Quality [star rating='5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.9']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.6']

Salifert AMPT Final Thoughts

"00 becomes 40."

It does take some time though to actually get it done. Comes with a lot of test strips, that are extremely easy to use and read. I set up a bunch of 20 gallon tanks for fry and stuff. This is no different so I wouldn't knock this product for that. First few strips I used gave an accurate ready. This is no different so I wouldn't knock this product for that. It helps get you in the ballpark with your water perimeters.

Overall Score
4.5

[star rating="4.5"]
(153 Points)

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