Editor's Choice - Our Favorite SJ WAVE Aquarium Test Kits
1. 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
(314 Points)

Here Are Some Other Related Aquarium Test Kits
2. ICP Analysis 33 Elemental Water Test Kit - Single Sample Kit
User Ratings: 56 22
ICP Analysis First Impressions
"But do they help, yes."These strips work very well and I have had consistent results with them. I tested the water and the nitrates and the ph were pretty high still. They're super easy to read and seem to be pretty accurate. So did another water change today and now I have happy fish. These strips work very well and I have had consistent results with them. To test it, I bought a 5 pack of 5 site test strips from Petco. In my opinion they arent quite as accurate as master test kits either.
- ICP Analysis 33 Elemental Water Test Kit - Single Sample Kit
- ICP Test results are emailed directly to you 24 hours after the water sample is received!
- Water Testing for 33 Differnt Elements
- Works with Saltwater and Freshwater - It is beneficial to test your drinking water to insure that chemicals, metals or other harmful elements are not ingested by your family or pets.
- Manufacture: ICP Analysis
- Editor's Impressions Of The ICP Analysis
- Test Accuracy [star rating='4.1']
- Quality [star rating='4']
- Value For Money [star rating='4.2']
- Affordability [star rating='2.7']
ICP Analysis Final Thoughts
"Gives me peace of mind."While using these weirder chemicals, it worries me a little bit. It was also kinda hard to get exactly 5ml Into the tubes. I'm the test strip came in handy it saved all of my fish. I have not had any problem whatsoever. Dip it in the water horizontally and keep it horizontal and read it against 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.
Overall Score
3.7
(29 Points)

3. 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
(153 Points)

4. 7 in 1 Count Aquarium Test Strips,100 Strips, Accurate Total Hardness, Chlorine, Bromine, Cyanuric A...
User Ratings: 72 2
TOOU First Impressions
"Very easy to use."Tank lids, water additives and more have seen the same effect. Having the key on the bottle is very helpful, it won't get lost. If you keep freshwater fish, you will need this test kit. They quickly shipped me a new product. This is no different so I wouldn't knock this product for that. I take every precaution about the chlorine, and trust the strips for everything else. To test it, I bought a 5 pack of 5 site test strips from Petco.
- 7 in 1 Count Aquarium Test Strips,100 Strips, Accurate Total Hardness, Chlorine, Bromine, Cyanuric Acid, Alkalinity and pH Testing, for Fresh Water and Salt Water
- AFFORDABLE 7 IN 1 TESTING KIT:These tests for essentials including Total Hardness, Free Chlorine, Bromine, Total Chlorine, Cyanuric Acid, Total Alkalinity and pH levels to give you an accurate reading of water conditions. Each strip tests for all results which are easy to read.
- 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 60 seconds.
- VALIDITY PERIOD : Store at 2℃~30℃ in a dry place and avoid light (2℃~8℃ is better) And the validity period is 24 months.
- GREAT VALUE : Each bottle comes with 100 test strips – that’s about enough to test your waters twice a week for a full year.
- REAL SERVICE : When you purchase, You can relax knowing you have a dedicated team of real people ready to help you with any questions or concerns you may have.
- Manufacture: Bernice Toby
- Editor's Impressions Of The TOOU
- Test Accuracy [star rating='4.6']
- Quality [star rating='4.1']
- Value For Money [star rating='4.1']
- Affordability [star rating='3.9']
TOOU Final Thoughts
"Was working great."The stripa are easy to use, clear instructions and I gor results in seconds. I used to always take a water sample to the pet store and they would teat it. It's difficult to tell if all the test sites on the strip are accurate. No issues so far, test strips work well. If this review was helpful, please click the helpful button! This is a kit to test for my aquarium water quality. I'm still not sure about the chlorine site.
Overall Score
4.5
(789 Points)

5. Freshwater Hardnss Test Kit
User Ratings: 74 3
Mars Fishcare North Amer First Impressions
"1 dKh difference."Overall, I am very happy with this kit. They show results, what is safe& not safe and what to do if not safe. It does'not' have the same accuracy but it’s very close. I'm the test strip came in handy it saved all of my fish. Overall good value for a small hobbyist aquarium owner. The rest of the test in the kit are much easier to use. Comes with a lot of test strips, that are extremely easy to use and read.
- Freshwater Hardnss Test Kit
- Tests tap water and freshwater aquariums for general hardness (gh) and carbonate hardness (kh).
- Helps detect stress on fish caused by rapid ph shifts, which result from low kh levels and helps aquarists duplicate the nat.
- All items are brand new, never worn and never used. We guarantee the authenticity of all items.
- Manufacture: Mars Fishcare North America
- Product Dimensions: 4 x 2 x 4 inches; 4.16 Ounces
- Editor's Impressions Of The Mars Fishcare North Amer
- Test Accuracy [star rating='5']
- Quality [star rating='4.7']
- Value For Money [star rating='3.5']
- Affordability [star rating='5']
Mars Fishcare North Amer Final Thoughts
"Strips work great!"But just for a quick check, its hard to beat these test strips. It's difficult to tell if all the test sites on the strip are accurate. So this thing worked very well and gave a reading that made perfect sense. This spreads out the 6 month expiration date after opening. My tap water actually was really green and was a very close match to the 1. I have some pretty lousy water where I live. It's really accurate and makes me feel like I'm a scientist while doing it.
Overall Score
4.5
(76 Points)

6. SunGrow pH Test Strip Kit for Bettas and Aquariums, Easy to Use, Easy to Read, Works for pH Range 5....
User Ratings: 49 18
SunGrow First Impressions
"YES, it's accurate."These are do helpful with maintaining your tank. If you keep freshwater fish, you will need this test kit. They showed the same results as these for the sites they had in common. I have some pretty lousy water where I live. I like API products and find them the most accurate. It does take some time though to actually get it done. Wasn't labeled that way in the descriptor.
- SunGrow pH Test Strip Kit for Bettas and Aquariums, Easy to Use, Easy to Read, Works for pH Range 5.5-9.0, Quick Results, Ideal for Hydroponic Plants, 50 Strips
- ✔ THE ONLY WAY TO “SEE” YOUR pH --- What is pH? You can’t taste it or see it but it’s vital for the health of your bettas, tetras, cichlids, and even your hydroponic plants. An aquarium or hydroponic set-up needs to have the correct pH for the fish and plants to not only thrive but to live. SunGrow test strips let you see this invisible but important quality of your water.
- ✔ SAVE THE FISHES AND PLANTS --- Sea life, aquatic plants, and hydroponic plants all have specific pH needs. You’ll want to achieve that pH for your plants or pets. Unfortunately, pH can change even after you’ve established your tank. This is normal. That’s why SunGrow’s test strip kit contains 50 strips so you can keep your fish and plants happy for months, years, and generations!
- ✔ SAVE TIME AND MONEY --- With SunGrow’s accurate test strips you can determine with certainty what adjustments you need to make or not make to keep your cherry shrimp, plecos, and angelfish happy, healthy, and thriving! Don’t waste money and risk your fish again guessing your water’s pH level when you can get our 50 test strips for quick, accurate readings.
- ✔ EASY TO USE --- Simply sample your aquarium’s water with a spoon and dip one of our test strips in. Then remove and in 5-10 seconds the test strip will reveal your water’s pH. To read, match the test strip’s color to the included pH key. For best results, make sure the strip is completely submerged and let dry on a paper towel for reading.
- ✔ EAT CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES --- How does pH affect plant growth? Or the taste of chocolate chip cookies? SunGrow test strips are easy to use and read so they’re a great tool for giving your budding scientist confidence! So feed their curiosity and enjoy some chocolate chip cookies!
- Manufacture: Luffy Pets Collection
- Editor's Impressions Of The SunGrow
- Test Accuracy [star rating='2.8']
- Quality [star rating='2.8']
- Value For Money [star rating='3.9']
- Affordability [star rating='4.3']
SunGrow Final Thoughts
"Strips work great!"These strips work very well and I have had consistent results with them. If you're looking for a quick-hit on a range of water quality these are the answer. My 12 yrs old son wanted a fish tank so we got him 2. I tested the water and the nitrates and the ph were pretty high still. Some of the readings develop better than others. My tap water actually was really green and was a very close match to the 1. It looks to have the slightest green tinge but is not as green as the 0.
Overall Score
3.7
(135 Points)

7. Red Sea Marine Care Program Ammonia Test Kit
User Ratings: 81
Red Sea Fish Pharm Ltd. First Impressions
"Thanks Red Sea."Very good instructions and a comparison color chart. They showed the same results as these for the sites they had in common. If you're looking for a quick-hit on a range of water quality these are the answer. If you want accurate pH get the API liquid test that includes pH and high pH. I started wearing gloves when I use the kit. I would not use it solely for checking nitrate and nitrites. My water was good to go and soon after I for fish that are doing well!
- Red Sea Marine Care Program Ammonia Test Kit
- Manufacture: Red Sea Fish Pharm Ltd.
- Editor's Impressions Of The Red Sea Fish Pharm Ltd.
- Test Accuracy [star rating='4.7']
- Quality [star rating='4.5']
- Value For Money [star rating='4']
- Affordability [star rating='4.6']
Red Sea Fish Pharm Ltd. Final Thoughts
"Pond water testing."This is not the right way to use this test, as it took me awhile to realize this. It does'not' have the same accuracy but it’s very close. I have not had any problem whatsoever. Easy to use, a good quantity and quality for the price. The kH pad sometimes has the same problem as well. About my pic color difference of the water and the chart and about the bad reviews. So this thing worked very well and gave a reading that made perfect sense.
Overall Score
4.6
(5 Points)

8. Triton Labs ICP-OES Water Test- Full Panel of 32 Elements - Saltwater Reef Testing Kit
User Ratings: 79 5
Triton Labs First Impressions
"Perfect for quick checks."I don't know so much about how precise these are. This is a kit to test for my aquarium water quality. I used to always take a water sample to the pet store and they would teat it. It shows it could be between 1-20 but the liquid shows 0. They test pretty accurate when run against my chemical tests. I wish there were a simpler accurate test for it. Then put the cap on the test vial and invert it several times.
- Triton Labs ICP-OES Water Test- Full Panel of 32 Elements - Saltwater Reef Testing Kit
- Testing Elements Include: Na, Ca, Mg, K, Sr, B, Br, S, Li, Be, Ba, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Al, Si, As, Sb, Sn, Cd, Se, Mo, Hg, P (PO4), Pb, I.
- The results of this test provide you with the most detailed analysis of marine aquarium water you've ever seen, enabling you to understand exactly what's missing, what's excessive, and what to do about it.
- Manufacture: Triton Labs
- Product Dimensions: 9.5 x 7.5 x 1 inches; 0.32 Ounces
- Editor's Impressions Of The Triton Labs
- Test Accuracy [star rating='5']
- Quality [star rating='4.9']
- Value For Money [star rating='5']
- Affordability [star rating='3.8']
Triton Labs Final Thoughts
"I know, I'm terrible."As you can see in comparison the only difference was the Nitrate. If you're looking for a quick-hit on a range of water quality these are the answer. My tap water actually was really green and was a very close match to the 1. Tank lids, water additives and more have seen the same effect. I'm the test strip came in handy it saved all of my fish. But it is accurate and convenient as is. If your lighting isn't right the colors will be very off.
Overall Score
4.5
(27 Points)

9. VetMate Dogs/Cats Diabetes Management Starter KIT - Pet Blood Glucose Monitoring Kit, Calibrated for...
User Ratings: 50
VetMate First Impressions
"These are just easier."Well I found out why they were gulping so bad. The nitrate test is a little finicky as most users will agree. It's really accurate and makes me feel like I'm a scientist while doing it. Nice that so many things are tested with one dip in the water. If your lighting isn't right the colors will be very off. I have not had any problem whatsoever. It's quick and easy and can give you an alert if something may be going on.
- VetMate Dogs/Cats Diabetes Management Starter KIT - Pet Blood Glucose Monitoring Kit, Calibrated for Dogs and Cats - 10 Test Strips, 1 Lancing Device, 10 Lancets
- [OPTIMAL FOR DOGS/CATS DIABETES MANAGEMENT] - The VetMate Blood Glucose Meter is perfect for those who want to quickly, easily, and accurately monitor their dogs' and cats' blood glucose level for their diabetes.
- [CALIBRATED FOR DOGS AND CATS] - The VetMate Blood Glucose Monitoring System is specifically calibrated for Dogs and Cats, providing accurate and precise blood glucose levels.
- [READY TO TEST] - The Starter Kit has everything you need to start testing instantly. It includes the VetMate Blood Glucose Testing Meter, 10 Test Strips, 10 Lancets, 1 Lancing Device, 2 Batteries, Control Solution and a Carrying Case
- [THEY DESERVE THE SAME] - Human Glucose Monitors evolve everyday. And our Dogs and Cats friends deserve the same technology advantage. VetMate requires No Code Chips, built with negative LCD screen for better reading. It also has STRIP EJECTOR, which strips can be easily and cleanly discarded.
- [FOR VETERINARIAN AND FOR YOU] - VetMate Diabetes Testing Kit can used by veterinarians AND by you! With the same meter, you can measure their glucose level with venous blood and capillary blood samples, truly creating no-barriers between you and your vet specialists.
- Manufacture: i-SENS, Inc.
- Batteries: 2 Lithium Metal batteries required. (included)
- Editor's Impressions Of The VetMate
- Test Accuracy [star rating='3.5']
- Quality [star rating='2.6']
- Value For Money [star rating='2.8']
- Affordability [star rating='3.6']
VetMate Final Thoughts
", is that a 6, 6."In my opinion they arent quite as accurate as master test kits either. Not really sure if there is a way to fix that though. They showed the same results as these for the sites they had in common. The caps do leak a tiny bit on the tubes. 6 showing the test strip as an accurate reading. It helps get you in the ballpark with your water perimeters. So off to buy some sponge filters I went!
Overall Score
3.5
(2 Points)

10. Aquarium Test Tube Holder, Hand-Made Rack, with 6 Holes and 6 Drying Poles, customised for use with ...
User Ratings: 73 4
Tililly Concepts First Impressions
"Would buy again for sure!"Overall, I am very happy with this kit. A brand new aquarium will experience what is called a cycle. Strips are accurate as far as I can tell. Their Whisper 1-5 filter cartridges have skyrocketed in price and become a scarcity. The strips are packaged well so they stay fresh and ready to use. If you want accurate pH get the API liquid test that includes pH and high pH. First few strips I used gave an accurate ready.
- Aquarium Test Tube Holder, Hand-Made Rack, with 6 Holes and 6 Drying Poles, customised for use with Aquarium Test Tubes Including API Test Tubes, by Tililly Concepts
- Manufacture: RSE
- Editor's Impressions Of The Tililly Concepts
- Test Accuracy [star rating='4.1']
- Quality [star rating='5']
- Value For Money [star rating='4.1']
- Affordability [star rating='4.8']
Tililly Concepts Final Thoughts
"25 from 0."These strips are not to be trusted as a primary testing method for aquariums. Takes about 5 minutes to check everything. I have not found that to be true for myself. The strips are able to monitor pH, nitrate, nitrite, water hardness. The stripa are easy to use, clear instructions and I gor results in seconds. Quantity of strips seems very good. It looks to have the slightest green tinge but is not as green as the 0.
Overall Score
4.5
(120 Points)
