Editor's Choice - Our Favorite RUNBO Aquarium Test Kits

1. RUNBO 6-in-1 Aquarium Test Strips - NO STOCK

User Ratings: 71 4

RUNBO First Impressions

"Fast result."

These helped me check the levels and they were easy to use. Probably won't buy again because of the bleeding issues. But it is accurate and convenient as is. Takes about 5 minutes to check everything. Will definitely buy again, if we ever run out! It looks to have the slightest green tinge but is not as green as the 0. First few strips I used gave an accurate ready.

  • RUNBO 6-in-1 Aquarium Test Strips - NO STOCK
  • PLEASE NOTICE: All RUNBO test strips from Morusstudio(It used to be called SHOPBESTCOLLETION) is fake
  • The real look of RUNBO test strips, please see as picture.
  • The Standard Specification of RUNBO test strips is 50 in the bottle, 50 in a refill bag
  • Manufacture: RUNBO
  • Product Dimensions: 4.72 x 2.17 x 2.17 inches; 2.08 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The RUNBO
  • Test Accuracy [star rating='3.6']
  • Quality [star rating='5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='5']
  • Affordability [star rating='4']

RUNBO Final Thoughts

"This part is very easy."

It does not test ammonia but that's clear in the description and bottle. Accurate results and much much cheaper than buying from a pet chain. Very helpful for checking the water in our tank. I even got an extra 32 test strips as an added bonus. But it is accurate and convenient as is. I have some pretty lousy water where I live. My results are never all over the place like other reviewers.

Overall Score
4.5

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

2. Sera kH-Test 15 ml, 0.5 fl.oz. Aquarium Test Kits

User Ratings: 77 2

Sera 4210 First Impressions

"Pond water testing."

I will now test my water periodically to make sure everything is ok. Price is good for the quantity and functionality of the tester strips. Tetra has always done that and I will continue to use their products. This kit is extremely accurate and very well designed for convenient use and storage. It is one small part of the overall aquarium ownership experience. This is no different so I wouldn't knock this product for that. It you take it to a local fish store.

  • Sera kH-Test 15 ml, 0.5 fl.oz. Aquarium Test Kits
  • In the case of too low KH values we recommend Sera KH/pH-plus (in freshwater) or sera pond bio balance (in ponds)
  • In the case of too high values we recommend filtering through Sera super peat (in freshwater aquariums)
  • Makes it easy to monitor the carbonate hardness in fresh and salt water
  • 15 Milliliter / 0.5 Ounce Test Kit
  • Manufacture: Sera North America, Inc.
  • Product Dimensions: 1.57 x 3.54 x 5.51 inches; 1.41 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Sera 4210
  • Test Accuracy [star rating='4.2']
  • Quality [star rating='4.5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.8']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.7']

Sera 4210 Final Thoughts

"Easy to use."

As you can see in comparison the only difference was the Nitrate. A brand new aquarium will experience what is called a cycle. No issues so far, test strips work well. Here's Tetra's strips if you're curious. These have worked to keep my fish safe and healthy. My tap water actually was really green and was a very close match to the 1. I started wearing gloves when I use the kit.

Overall Score
4.7

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

3. HMT General Kit

User Ratings: 60 17

Osumex OSUMEX-HMT First Impressions

"Great magnesium test kit."

I respect a company that backs their product. I wouldn't call this a master kit but a great start. Dip it in the water horizontally and keep it horizontal and read it against bottle. Very helpful for checking the water in our tank. I like API products and find them the most accurate. Before, I brought water into a pet store, but kept seeing no signs of improvement. But, I will continue to order Tetra's 6 in 1 until someone makes a better test strip.

  • HMT General Kit
  • Test for a range of 8 toxic heavy metals in any clear solution
  • Cadmium Cobalt Copper Lead Manganese Mercury Nickel Zinc
  • Easy to use at home with simple instructions giving results in minutes
  • Accurate results verified by an independent laboratory Kemetco Research Lab
  • Manufacture: Osumex
  • Product Dimensions: 3.13 x 1.64 x 0.09 inches; 0.64 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Osumex OSUMEX-HMT
  • Test Accuracy [star rating='4.3']
  • Quality [star rating='4.9']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.3']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.5']

Osumex OSUMEX-HMT Final Thoughts

"Bought the 100 Count."

It's really accurate and makes me feel like I'm a scientist while doing it. These have worked to keep my fish safe and healthy. All bottles clearly labeled and tell you how many drops. Comes with a lot of test strips, that are extremely easy to use and read. While using these weirder chemicals, it worries me a little bit. But if it's wrong at least I was proactive about it. Always nice to get something extra!

Overall Score
4.0

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

4. 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)

5. Sera Nitrate-Test (No3) 15 Ml, 0.5 fl.oz Aquarium Test Kits

User Ratings: 71 8

Sera 4510 First Impressions

"Helps keep my fish happy."

They quickly shipped me a new product. Very helpful for checking the water in our tank. My tap water actually was really green and was a very close match to the 1. Definitely recommend this test strip for anyone who has a Betta fish as a pet. Overall good value for a small hobbyist aquarium owner. Tetra has always done that and I will continue to use their products. Also, I'd avoid Tetra's strips to be honest- the reviews speak for themselves.

  • Sera Nitrate-Test (No3) 15 Ml, 0.5 fl.oz Aquarium Test Kits
  • Easy to read
  • Very accurate
  • For freshwater and marine aquariums as well as ponds
  • Package Dimensions: 13.6 L x 4.2H x9W(centimeters)
  • Manufacture: Sera North America, Inc.
  • Product Dimensions: 1.57 x 3.54 x 5.51 inches; 4.16 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Sera 4510
  • Test Accuracy [star rating='3.5']
  • Quality [star rating='4.1']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.2']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.5']

Sera 4510 Final Thoughts

"Thank you!"

This is essential for an accurate reading. This is not the right way to use this test, as it took me awhile to realize this. Definitely recommend this test strip for anyone who has a Betta fish as a pet. It does'not' have the same accuracy but it’s very close. The test strips work as advertised. The price is great for all these essential tests! My water was good to go and soon after I for fish that are doing well!

Overall Score
4.4

[star rating="4.4"]
(267 Points)

6. PetSure! Test Strips 60ct - Pack of 2 - Blood Glucose Testing for Cats and Dogs - Works with AlphaTr...

User Ratings: 71 10

PetSure! First Impressions

"Exactly as pictured."

Price is good for the quantity and functionality of the tester strips. It's quick and easy and can give you an alert if something may be going on. 6 showing the test strip as an accurate reading. I don't know so much about how precise these are. As you can see in comparison the only difference was the Nitrate. Unfortunately nitrates still might be the most important test, at least for me it is. These helped me check the levels and they were easy to use.

  • PetSure! Test Strips 60ct - Pack of 2 - Blood Glucose Testing for Cats and Dogs - Works with AlphaTrak and AlphaTrak2 Meters
  • 120 Test Strips
  • Use with AlphaTRAK and AlphaTRAK2 Meters
  • For blood glucose testing on dogs and cats
  • Manufacture: PharmaTech Solutions, Inc.
  • Editor's Impressions Of The PetSure!
  • Test Accuracy [star rating='3.6']
  • Quality [star rating='3.7']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.5']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.3']

PetSure! Final Thoughts

"Perfect for quick checks."

I get a consistent reading every time, retests included. Very helpful for checking the water in our tank. This is a kit to test for my aquarium water quality. Then replace the caps of the bottle and test vial. It is easy to use and accurate enough. Probably won't buy again because of the bleeding issues. Then replace the caps of the bottle and test vial.

Overall Score
4.3

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

7. Deepwater Aquatics AF01930 Test

User Ratings: 80 5

Deepwater Aquatics AF01930 First Impressions

"FIVE STARS for sure!"

They're super easy to read and seem to be pretty accurate. I have a freshwater tank that includes some delicate invertebrates. It does take some time though to actually get it done. While using these weirder chemicals, it worries me a little bit. So this thing worked very well and gave a reading that made perfect sense. And if it was, please click on the helpful button below. It does not test ammonia but that's clear in the description and bottle.

  • Deepwater Aquatics AF01930 Test
  • Quickly measure the conentraion of Magnesium in marine water
  • Mg levels should be analyzed regularly
  • Test Kit contains sufficient reagents to perform approx. 55-60 separate tests within that range.
  • Manufacture: Deepwater Aquatics
  • Product Dimensions: 5.12 x 2.36 x 5.91 inches; 6.4 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Deepwater Aquatics AF01930
  • Test Accuracy [star rating='5']
  • Quality [star rating='4.9']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.9']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.6']

Deepwater Aquatics AF01930 Final Thoughts

"My favorite brand!"

Very helpful for checking the water in our tank. This is essential for an accurate reading. Very helpful for checking the water in our tank. I take every precaution about the chlorine, and trust the strips for everything else. Best price, best quality, fair accuracy and better than most brands, etc. Definitely recommend this test strip for anyone who has a Betta fish as a pet. These strips are not to be trusted as a primary testing method for aquariums.

Overall Score
4.6

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

8. PetSure! Test Strips 60ct - Blood Glucose Testing for Cats and Dogs - Works with AlphaTrak and Alpha...

User Ratings: 68 11

PetSure! First Impressions

"Super easy to use."

Dip it in the water horizontally and keep it horizontal and read it against bottle. Overall, I am very happy with this kit. But after last night these are a must have for me. All bottles clearly labeled and tell you how many drops. I have a freshwater tank that includes some delicate invertebrates. These helped me check the levels and they were easy to use. A plus is that they don't bleed colors while testing.

  • PetSure! Test Strips 60ct - Blood Glucose Testing for Cats and Dogs - Works with AlphaTrak and AlphaTrak2 Meters
  • 60 Test Strips
  • Use with AlphaTRAK and AlphaTRAK2 meters
  • For blood glucose testing on dogs and cats
  • Manufacture: PharmaTech Solutions, Inc.
  • Editor's Impressions Of The PetSure!
  • Test Accuracy [star rating='4']
  • Quality [star rating='3.3']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.6']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.2']

PetSure! Final Thoughts

"Used the same kit before."

These have worked to keep my fish safe and healthy. To test it, I bought a 5 pack of 5 site test strips from Petco. It was also kinda hard to get exactly 5ml Into the tubes. If you're looking for a quick-hit on a range of water quality these are the answer. I found running all the tests took me around 10 minutes. I have a 55 gallon tank with a few large goldfish. I was having trouble keeping my fish tank water looking good.

Overall Score
4.2

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

9. Red Sea Fish Pharm ARE22040 4-Pack Coral Colors ABCD Supplements for Aquarium, 100ml

User Ratings: 80 1

Red Sea 306041 First Impressions

"That is time consuming."

Overall, I am very happy with this kit. The key is that you are looking for changes. I don't know so much about how precise these are. I'm still not sure about the chlorine site. But just for a quick check, its hard to beat these test strips. If this review was helpful, please click the helpful button! I even got an extra 32 test strips as an added bonus.

  • Red Sea Fish Pharm ARE22040 4-Pack Coral Colors ABCD Supplements for Aquarium, 100ml
  • Coral Coloration A, B, C And D Supplements Provides Hobbyists Of All Levels The Opportunity Control And Enhance The Growth And Coloration Of Corals
  • Coral Colors A, B, C And D Supplements Contain The 31 Minor And Trace Elements Present In The Skeleton And Soft Tissue Of All Coral
  • Coral Colors A, B, C and D should only be dosed according to a measured requirement of the aquarium
  • Come In A 4-Pack Of 100-Ml That Supports A 250-Liter Saps Aquarium For Approximately 60 Days
  • Formulated Such That The Ratio Of The Elements In Each Supplement Are The Same As Are Found In The Combined Coral Skeleton And Soft Tissue
  • Manufacture: TopDawg Pet Supply
  • Product Dimensions: 3.54 x 5.51 x 3.54 inches; 1 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Red Sea 306041
  • Test Accuracy [star rating='5']
  • Quality [star rating='4.2']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.9']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.6']

Red Sea 306041 Final Thoughts

"Worth the money."

It helps get you in the ballpark with your water perimeters. It looks to have the slightest green tinge but is not as green as the 0. It's really accurate and makes me feel like I'm a scientist while doing it. This spreads out the 6 month expiration date after opening. Despite what it says on the chart, oxygen at 6mg will cause fish to start gulping. To test it, I bought a 5 pack of 5 site test strips from Petco. Some of the readings develop better than others.

Overall Score
4.7

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

10. 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

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

Copyright © 2024 Rob Aquatics — Primer Child WordPress theme by GoDaddy