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
(26 Points)

Here Are Some Other Related Aquarium Test Kits
2. Salifert Alkalinity Calcium Magnesium Combo Test Kit
User Ratings: 79 2
Salifert SALCORE First Impressions
"Easy to read."I'm still not sure about the chlorine site. First few strips I used gave an accurate ready. Every test I do takes just a few drops. First and second test have a little change which was expected. Then put the cap on the test vial and invert it several times. Some of the readings develop better than others. This spreads out the 6 month expiration date after opening.
- Salifert Alkalinity Calcium Magnesium Combo Test Kit
- Manufacture: Salifert
- Product Dimensions: 5.2 x 5.1 x 4.2 inches; 15.2 Ounces
- Editor's Impressions Of The Salifert SALCORE
- Test Accuracy [star rating='3.9']
- Quality [star rating='5']
- Value For Money [star rating='5']
- Affordability [star rating='4.2']
Salifert SALCORE Final Thoughts
"With this is alot easier."It's quick and easy and can give you an alert if something may be going on. These strips are not to be trusted as a primary testing method for aquariums. It does'not' have the same accuracy but it’s very close. This kit is extremely accurate and very well designed for convenient use and storage. I find that the accuracy is wrong in the sense it's better than it reads. It shows it could be between 1-20 but the liquid shows 0. But, I will continue to order Tetra's 6 in 1 until someone makes a better test strip.
Overall Score
4.6
(219 Points)

3. Red Sea Fish Pharm ARE21411 Reagent KH/Alkalinity Pro Kit Refill for Aquarium, 75 Tests
User Ratings: 68 5
Red Sea Fish Pharm Ltd. 306012 First Impressions
"It is very easy to use."So off to buy some sponge filters I went! Quantity of strips seems very good. Accurate results and much much cheaper than buying from a pet chain. No issues so far, test strips work well. I'm the test strip came in handy it saved all of my fish. It is one small part of the overall aquarium ownership experience. My results are never all over the place like other reviewers.
- Red Sea Fish Pharm ARE21411 Reagent KH/Alkalinity Pro Kit Refill for Aquarium, 75 Tests
- Reagent alkalinity pro refill test kit is an advanced titration test
- Measuring the level of buffers in reef aquarium to an exceptionally high accuracy of 0. 05 meq/l (0. 14 dkh)
- This test refill replenishes KH/alkalinity pro test kit with sufficient reagent to conduct another 75 tests
- Alkalinity pro refill test kit boasts a new level of convenience for reef aquarium hobbyists
- Routine and precise measurement of aquarium alkalinity (buffer) levels is essential for successful coral reef aquariums
- Manufacture: TopDawg Pet Supply
- Product Dimensions: 4.72 x 1.97 x 3.15 inches; 1 Pounds
- Editor's Impressions Of The Red Sea Fish Pharm Ltd. 306012
- Test Accuracy [star rating='4.8']
- Quality [star rating='4.4']
- Value For Money [star rating='5']
- Affordability [star rating='4.7']
Red Sea Fish Pharm Ltd. 306012 Final Thoughts
"Great value, Speedy ship!"But it turns out that is not the case. Probably won't buy again because of the bleeding issues. This test kit is easy to use and the results are easy to read. Wasn't labeled that way in the descriptor. I'm the test strip came in handy it saved all of my fish. These strips are not to be trusted as a primary testing method for aquariums. It does take some time though to actually get it done.
Overall Score
4.4
(36 Points)

4. API Replacement Test Tubes for Aquarium Test Kits 6 Pack Bundle
User Ratings: 87 3
API 5346906760 First Impressions
"So read the instructions."This test kit is easy to use and the results are easy to read. If your lighting isn't right the colors will be very off. The strips are able to monitor pH, nitrate, nitrite, water hardness. I cut each strip down the middle so that I have even more tests. Just dip the strip in the tank water for two seconds, then read right away. If this review was helpful, please click the helpful button! I even got an extra 32 test strips as an added bonus.
- API Replacement Test Tubes for Aquarium Test Kits 6 Pack Bundle
- Replacement Test Tubes compatible with the Aquarium Pharmaceuticals (API) Test Kits
- Includes caps
- 6 Pack
- Manufacture: API
- Editor's Impressions Of The API 5346906760
- Test Accuracy [star rating='5']
- Quality [star rating='4.4']
- Value For Money [star rating='5']
- Affordability [star rating='5']
API 5346906760 Final Thoughts
"They work for me."This is a good kit so much more accurate and easy to figure out how to use it. The price is great for all these essential tests! This is essential for an accurate reading. The nitrate test is a little finicky as most users will agree. First and second test have a little change which was expected. Accurate results and much much cheaper than buying from a pet chain. All bottles clearly labeled and tell you how many drops.
Overall Score
4.7
(279 Points)

5. JNW Direct Pond Test Strips 7 in 1 - Test pH, Chlorine, Nitrate, Nitrite, Hardness and More, Accurat...
User Ratings: 63
JNW Direct First Impressions
"It's very easy to do."It looks to have the slightest green tinge but is not as green as the 0. This test kit is easy to use and the results are easy to read. It's difficult to tell if all the test sites on the strip are accurate. Every test I do takes just a few drops. It's difficult to tell if all the test sites on the strip are accurate. I used to always take a water sample to the pet store and they would teat it. Probably won't buy again because of the bleeding issues.
- JNW Direct Pond Test Strips 7 in 1 - Test pH, Chlorine, Nitrate, Nitrite, Hardness and More, Accurate Fish Pond Water Testing, Free App & Ebook Included, 50 Count
- THE ULTIMATE AT HOME TESTING KIT for your pond. Tests for 7 parameters: Total Hardness, Free Chlorine, Nitrite, Nitrate, pH, Total Alkalinity & KH / Carbonate
- EXTREMELY EASY TO USE pond water test strips, Instant reliable results with simple and clear instructions. Simply dip and compare with large color chart on bottle. Ideal range marked on bottle
- BONUS FREE MOBILE APP INCLUDED - Record, track and monitor your pond test strip results with ultimate accuracy. Available for IOS and Android
- ALWAYS MAKE SURE YOUR FISH ARE HEALTHY, our fish test strips come with a great e-book explaining what your results mean and how you can keep your water in the perfect condition
- 50 STRIPS MEANS 50 TESTS - Each testing strip provides accurate and fast results, making the process of checking your pond water chemistry so simple, quick and easy. Clean water = happy fish
- Manufacture: JNW Direct
- Editor's Impressions Of The JNW Direct
- Test Accuracy [star rating='4.7']
- Quality [star rating='4.9']
- Value For Money [star rating='4']
- Affordability [star rating='4.3']
JNW Direct Final Thoughts
"Like nuclear waste water."The API Test Strips are a good water monitoring system for small tanks. The strips are able to monitor pH, nitrate, nitrite, water hardness. These strips are not to be trusted as a primary testing method for aquariums. This is not the right way to use this test, as it took me awhile to realize this. If I had a complaint, I wish the color legend was printed on the bottle. Very good instructions and a comparison color chart. Nice that so many things are tested with one dip in the water.
Overall Score
4.5
(16 Points)

6. Red Sea MCP Phosphate (PO4) Test Kit - Saltwater Aquariums, Packing may vary
User Ratings: 63
MCP 21480 First Impressions
"Simple and easy to use."Very easy to use and very easy to read test strips. First few strips I used gave an accurate ready. Price is good for the quantity and functionality of the tester strips. My water was good to go and soon after I for fish that are doing well! I was having trouble keeping my fish tank water looking good. It you take it to a local fish store. Tank lids, water additives and more have seen the same effect.
- Red Sea MCP Phosphate (PO4) Test Kit - Saltwater Aquariums, Packing may vary
- Red Sea Phosphate Test Kit Includes 100 tests.
- Measurement of Phosphate in your aquarium to an accuracy of 0. 1ppm PO4.
- For Saltwater/Reef/Marine Aquariums Only.
- Country of Origin: CHINA
- Age Range Description: All Stages
- Manufacture: Red Sea
- Product Dimensions: 6 x 4 x 2.5 inches; 3.99 Ounces
- Editor's Impressions Of The MCP 21480
- Test Accuracy [star rating='4.9']
- Quality [star rating='5']
- Value For Money [star rating='3.9']
- Affordability [star rating='5']
MCP 21480 Final Thoughts
"Great strips."I have a freshwater tank that includes some delicate invertebrates. Nice that so many things are tested with one dip in the water. Easy to use, a good quantity and quality for the price. My tap water actually was really green and was a very close match to the 1. This test kit is easy to use and the results are easy to read. Very easy to use and very easy to read test strips. Best price, best quality, fair accuracy and better than most brands, etc.
Overall Score
4.2
(10 Points)

7. Sera Copper-Test (Cu) 15 ml, 0.5 fl.oz. Aquarium Test Kits
User Ratings: 60 7
Sera 4710 First Impressions
"Hope this was useful."If this review was helpful, please click the helpful button! I mean some people would never do a water test at all. You never want to wait too long and the tank crashes and has major problems. I find that the accuracy is wrong in the sense it's better than it reads. Their Whisper 1-5 filter cartridges have skyrocketed in price and become a scarcity. 6 and run a high pH you will see it could actually be 7. But just for a quick check, its hard to beat these test strips.
- Sera Copper-Test (Cu) 15 ml, 0.5 fl.oz. Aquarium Test Kits
- Country Of Origin : Germany
- The Package Height Of The Product Is 5.51 Inches
- The Package Length Of The Product Is 1.57 Inches
- The Package Width Of The Product Is 3.54 Inches
- Manufacture: Sera North America, Inc.
- Product Dimensions: 1.57 x 3.54 x 5.51 inches; 2.08 Ounces
- Editor's Impressions Of The Sera 4710
- Test Accuracy [star rating='4.5']
- Quality [star rating='4']
- Value For Money [star rating='5']
- Affordability [star rating='5']
Sera 4710 Final Thoughts
"Maybe I have bad bottle."But just for a quick check, its hard to beat these test strips. Not sure if the reading is 0 or more likely something between 0-. The stripa are easy to use, clear instructions and I gor results in seconds. As you can see in comparison the only difference was the Nitrate. The test strips work as advertised. Very easy to use and very easy to read test strips. But just for a quick check, its hard to beat these test strips.
Overall Score
4.2
(36 Points)

8. NYOS Calcium (CA) Reefer Aquarium Test Kit
User Ratings: 48 6
NYOS First Impressions
"Helps keep my fish happy."Having the key on the bottle is very helpful, it won't get lost. 6 and run a high pH you will see it could actually be 7. It helps get you in the ballpark with your water perimeters. I found running all the tests took me around 10 minutes. The caps do leak a tiny bit on the tubes. So I got these to try and I love them. Nice that so many things are tested with one dip in the water.
- NYOS Calcium (CA) Reefer Aquarium Test Kit
- 50 Tests - NYOS REEFER test kits allows you to achieve precise and most importantly reproducible (i.e. in repeat measurements identical) measuring results.
- Reagents are made in Germany in accordance with EN ISO 9001, AAS and NIST standards.
- Made in Germany
- Manufacture: NYOS
- Product Dimensions: 5 x 4 x 2 inches; 1.6 Ounces
- Editor's Impressions Of The NYOS
- Test Accuracy [star rating='4.8']
- Quality [star rating='4.9']
- Value For Money [star rating='4.6']
- Affordability [star rating='4.7']
NYOS Final Thoughts
"+1-800-526-0650."It was also kinda hard to get exactly 5ml Into the tubes. I cut each strip down the middle so that I have even more tests. The stripa are easy to use, clear instructions and I gor results in seconds. I wouldn't call this a master kit but a great start. Their Whisper 1-5 filter cartridges have skyrocketed in price and become a scarcity. Besides these few flaws I have to say it's a great starter kit. But, I will continue to order Tetra's 6 in 1 until someone makes a better test strip.
Overall Score
4.1
(14 Points)

9. Red Sea Fish Pharm ARE21455 Marine Care Program pH/Alkalinity Test Kit for Aquarium, 100 Tests
User Ratings: 63
Red Sea Fish Pharm Ltd. 306024 First Impressions
"Love the convenience."Price is good for the quantity and functionality of the tester strips. I have not had any problem whatsoever. I find that the accuracy is wrong in the sense it's better than it reads. They quickly shipped me a new product. But just for a quick check, its hard to beat these test strips. Very easy to use and very easy to read test strips. If I had a complaint, I wish the color legend was printed on the bottle.
- Red Sea Fish Pharm ARE21455 Marine Care Program pH/Alkalinity Test Kit for Aquarium, 100 Tests
- Marine care program ph. /alkalinity test kit
- Includes an accurate titration test for KH and a colorimetric test for pH for monitoring
- These essential parameters in all marine aquariums
- Its accuracy of 0. 2 ppm; performs 100 tests
- It range is 7. 6ppm-8. 6ppm
- Manufacture: TopDawg Pet Supply
- Product Dimensions: 1.97 x 0.79 x 1.18 inches; 4 Ounces
- Editor's Impressions Of The Red Sea Fish Pharm Ltd. 306024
- Test Accuracy [star rating='3.9']
- Quality [star rating='3.8']
- Value For Money [star rating='4.9']
- Affordability [star rating='3.5']
Red Sea Fish Pharm Ltd. 306024 Final Thoughts
"This is my water."The API Test Strips are a good water monitoring system for small tanks. Just dip the strip in the tank water for two seconds, then read right away. These helped me check the levels and they were easy to use. But after last night these are a must have for me. These strips are not to be trusted as a primary testing method for aquariums. It looks to have the slightest green tinge but is not as green as the 0. These have worked to keep my fish safe and healthy.
Overall Score
4.3
(23 Points)

10. BOSIKE Aquarium Test Strips, Fish Tank/Freshwater/Saltwater/Pond Testing Kit for Variety of Water Pa...
User Ratings: 70 3
BOSIKE First Impressions
"YES, it's accurate."Overall, I am very happy with this kit. Not sure if the reading is 0 or more likely something between 0-. Definitely recommend this test strip for anyone who has a Betta fish as a pet. Here's Tetra's strips if you're curious. Just be careful, after all these are chemicals. The strips are packaged well so they stay fresh and ready to use. These helped me check the levels and they were easy to use.
- BOSIKE Aquarium Test Strips, Fish Tank/Freshwater/Saltwater/Pond Testing Kit for Variety of Water Parameters, Nitrate Nitrite Chlorine Carbonate Hardness and pH or Ammonia
- FAST AND ACCURATE: Just dip a strip into water for 2 seconds and then remove it. Hold the strip horizontally for 60 seconds. Compare with color chart and read within 90 seconds.
- WIDELY APPLICATIONS: These strips are widely used for Tropical Fish Tank ,Breeder Tank, Pond, Betta Tank, Shrimp Tank and other water aquarium. Researches show that you should test your aquarium water at least twice a week, so you can test your aquarium water quality at regular intervals!
- EFFECTIVE EXTEND SHELF LIFE: These test papers are packaged in a well-sealed bottle to ensure the strips store for 2 years.
- HIGH PRECISION RESULTS: Each test strip is made of high quality fiber paper and NO COLOR BLEEDING pad that provides instant and reliable result.
- AFFORDABLE 6 IN 1 TESTING KIT: You can monitor your water quality by yourself about Total Hardness, Nitrate, Nitrite, Cl2, Carbonate and pH at a time.
- Manufacture: BOSIKE
- Editor's Impressions Of The BOSIKE
- Test Accuracy [star rating='4.6']
- Quality [star rating='5']
- Value For Money [star rating='5']
- Affordability [star rating='5']
BOSIKE Final Thoughts
"It's very easy to do."So did another water change today and now I have happy fish. I wouldn't call this a master kit but a great start. This is not the right way to use this test, as it took me awhile to realize this. I would not use it solely for checking nitrate and nitrites. These strips work very well and I have had consistent results with them. Comes with a lot of test strips, that are extremely easy to use and read. Also, I'd avoid Tetra's strips to be honest- the reviews speak for themselves.
Overall Score
4.4
(360 Points)
