Editor's Choice - Our Favorite External Aquarium Water Pumps

1. Flexzion Pond Pump Submersible 800/950/1200/1400/1850/2100/2650 GPH - Flow Inline Aquarium Fountain ...

User Ratings: 71 8

Flexzion First Impressions

"Same deal."

This little fountain helps reduce stress during the day. Based upon comments the motor is prolly not consistently manufactured. I will be replacing it with a 1375 GPH pump. Will empty 75 gallons of mixed water to my 300 gallon aquarium in about 5 minutes. I really like this pump, although I would have liked a little more flow. The seller had a new one out to me the same day and I got it in 2 days! Unfortunately somehow, storing it over last winter, the plug has gone missing.

• Flexzion Pond Pump Submersible 800/950/1200/1400/1850/2100/2650 GPH - Flow Inline Aquarium Fountain Waterfall Koi Fish Salt Fresh Water Filter with Set of Outlet Adapter
• This pump is good for aquariums, waterfalls, pond filtration systems or any other pond application
• Can be used submerged or inline (external) with both salt and fresh water, indoors or out
• Adjustable flow rate; Safe for fish, with no oil, copper or harmful chemicals
• Allow large size of dirt particle up to 1/4" with spiral propeller design
• Well designed with variable frequency technology for a variety of settings: small power, large flow, high H-max, silence
• Manufacture: Flexzion
• Product Dimensions: 9 x 9 x 7 inches; 6.45 Pounds

• Editor's Impressions Of The Flexzion
• Pump Power [star rating='4.3']
• Quality [star rating='4.5']
• Value For Money [star rating='4.9']
• Affordability [star rating='4']

Peoples Choice - Other Highly Rated External Aquarium Water Pumps

2. KEDSUM 1000GPH Inline/Submersible Water Pump(3800L/H, 72W), Ultra Quiet Water Pump with 9.8ft High L...

User Ratings: 59 10

KEDSUM First Impressions

"It's very quiet."

I BUILT ONE USING AN INTERNAL FISH FILTER THAT LAID IN THE BOTTO. I changed to a 65GPH pump with good results. Recently saw a small tabletop fountain in a gift store for an outrageous price. Replies quickly and resolved issues quickly! Serves HOB 5-gal sump with Klir roller setup+ Tunnze skimmer. BUT IF YOU NEED MORE LIFT JUST USE A SMALLER I. The design feels solid and the suction cups hold well.

• KEDSUM 1000GPH Inline/Submersible Water Pump(3800L/H, 72W), Ultra Quiet Water Pump with 9.8ft High Lift, Fountain Pump with 6.5ft Power Cord, 5 Nozzles for Fish Tank, Pond, Aquarium
• 【Submersible/Inline Pump 2 in 1】BUY ONE GET TWO, suitable for AMPHIBIOUS use. It can be submerged in water as a submersible pump or connected to a pipe for use as an inline pump. Perfect for water change, water circuration, hydroponic system, fountains, fish tanks, aquariums, etc. (Note: Make sure to POUR WATER into the pump before EXTERNAL USE)
• 【Specifications】Dimensions: 6.7x4.7x5.3inches. The 6.5ft long power cord offers convenient installation. Max Flow Rate: 1000 GPH (3800L/H), Max Lift height: up to 9.8 Feet. Watt: 72W; Voltage:110-120V.
• 【5 Optional Nozzles】It comes with 5 optional nozzles to create different water flow effects, 4 outflow nozzles: 6/7inch(22mm)×2, 1inch(25mm)×2, 1 inflow nozzles: 1inch(25mm).(PLEASE NOTE inline and outlet nozzles has different thread size)
• 【Detachable & Cleanable】This profile size water pump is easy to hide or disguise. No need any tools to detach it, easy to seperate, easy to clean. 4 rubber suckers on the bottom, can adsorb on the glass surface and reduce noise and vibration
• 【The KEDSUM Better Guarantee】: The relible and duarable motor does not produce much noise, giving you quiet environment. Any question of your KEDSUM 1000GPH submersible/ non submersible pump, please come back to us and we will be responsible for the pumps we produce.
• Manufacture: KEDSUM
• Part Number: D20V281-D20V281D
• Material: Plastic, ceramic, copper
• Item Weight: 5 pounds
• Product Dimensions: 6.7 x 4.7 x 5.3 inches
• Size: 1000GPH
• Color: Black
• Power Source: Ac
• Batteries Included?: No
• Batteries Required?: No

• Editor's Impressions Of The KEDSUM
• Pump Power [star rating='3.3']
• Quality [star rating='3.2']
• Value For Money [star rating='4.7']
• Affordability [star rating='3.1']

3. Current USA eFlux DC Flow Pump with Flow Control | 1050 GPH, 1900 GPH & 3170 GPH Flow Ranges Availab...

User Ratings: 75 8

Current USA 6009 First Impressions

"To small aquarium."

I upgraded to a stronger one and it got broken at the bottom while being shipped. It's so quiet I don't even hear anything besides the overflow now! Some of my orchids do not do well when the relative humidity drops below 30%. I will be replacing it with a 1375 GPH pump. IT WILL PUMP 400 GPH WITH A ONE INCH NIPPLE. What everyone says about the silicone tubing being kinked up is true. JUST CARRING THREE GALL OF WATER WHERES ME OUT.

• Current USA eFlux DC Flow Pump with Flow Control | 1050 GPH, 1900 GPH & 3170 GPH Flow Ranges Available | Ultra Quiet, Submersible or External Installation | Safe for Saltwater & Freshwater Systems
• ADJUSTABLE FLOW- Unlike traditional AC water pumps, eFlux flow pumps are DC powered and completely controllable. Simply turn the dial to adjust the flow until the optimal flow rate is reached.
• SUBMERISBLE or EXTERNAL- Safe for saltwater or freshwater systems, eFlux DC flow pumps can be installed submersible or external (inline). Quick couple hose barb fittings are included to make installation and servicing easy.
• INCREDIBLY EASY- A cinch to install, eFlux Flow pumps have a very small footprint, allowing them to fit into even smaller sumps and tight spaces. High flow combined with high pressure makes them the perfect choice for return pump applications.
• ENERGY SAVER- eFlux controllable DC flow pumps efficiently produce strong water flow with high pressure. Featuring a sealed DC motor and magnetic drive design. 65% Energy saving from traditional pumps.
• 30 DAY GUARANTEE-We are so sure you’ll be happy with your purchase that we offer a “30-Day Money-Back Guarantee” to ensure customer satisfaction of our Current USA products. If for any reason you wish to discontinue using the products, we will promptly issue a refund.
• Manufacture: Current USA
• Product Dimensions: 8.5 x 6.9 x 5.3 inches; 3.7 Pounds

• Editor's Impressions Of The Current USA 6009
• Pump Power [star rating='3.6']
• Quality [star rating='4.2']
• Value For Money [star rating='5']
• Affordability [star rating='5']

4. Hygger Quiet Submersible and External 24V DC Water Pump, with Controller (30%-100% Settings), Powerf...

User Ratings: 76 9

hygger HG-915-3000 First Impressions

"Overall a great pump."

HOSE THE YOU WILL HAVE MORE PREASURE. Absolutely silent, and has 4 little silicone suction cup feet to isolate vibration. Could work for a cat fountain, or small to medium aquarium fountain. Serves HOB 5-gal sump with Klir roller setup+ Tunnze skimmer. I'm using this pump in my backyard for cascade waterfall. BUT IF YOU NEED MORE LIFT JUST USE A SMALLER I. May 2020; Just received this and so far am really happy.

• Hygger Quiet Submersible and External 24V DC Water Pump, with Controller (30%-100% Settings), Powerful Return Pump for Fish Tanks, Aquariums, Ponds, Fountains, Sump, Hydroponics
• 【Demension & Specifications】Powerful and ultra quiet water return pump. Input voltage: 100-240V 50/60HZ. Output voltage: DC 24V. Pump Dimension (LxWxH): 6.2 x 3.1 x 5 inch. Cord length from the pump to controller is 6ft, the power cord length is 6.6ft. Wattage/flow/head: 25W/800GPH/9.8ft head. Please look the chart for each models
• 【 Auto Shut Off When No Water】 Plug the power to turn this water pump on, unplug the power to turn it off. It is protected in case there's no water, the pump will auto shut off when no water is sensed or water gets too low. Comes with 2 kinds of removable water intake screens,1 for normal water level and the other for low water level (higher than 0.8inch)
• 【Adjustable Flow Speed】This aquarium water pump has an external Led display controller, with 71 flow speed settings, you can control the flow rate from 30% to 100% of the top speed flow. 3 buttons on the controller: "Up" "Down" "Pause"
• 【Internal & External Use】 Hygger dcp water pump can be ran externally or be submerged. Please note the controller is not waterproof, must be placed indoors. The pond pump comes with screws, o rings, pipe connection fittings. You can connect 1" or 3/4" pipes to this pond pump
• 【Durable Water Pump】Wear-resistant ceramic shaft and magnetic drive makes this water pump a long service life. No copper element, can be used for fresh water or salt water. Need 10ft extension cord for the controller and pump, please go for ASIN B08CB69DSF
• Ultra quiet, runs at low vibration.
• Auto shut off when no water is sensed.
• High performance, energy saving up to 65% and safe operation.
• Manufacture: hygger
• Product Dimensions: 6.2 x 3.1 x 5 inches; 4.08 Pounds

• Editor's Impressions Of The hygger HG-915-3000
• Pump Power [star rating='5']
• Quality [star rating='4.5']
• Value For Money [star rating='4.2']
• Affordability [star rating='4.6']

Honorable Mentions - More Top Selling External Aquarium Water Pumps

5. Uniclife DEP-4000 Controllable DC Water Pump 1052 GPH with Controller for Marine Freshwater Aquarium...

User Ratings: 67 9

Uniclife Uniclife-UL204-1 First Impressions

"Better than I expected!"

The trick to making it last is to keep debris and algae out of it. I changed to a 65GPH pump with good results. Both from the tank to the bucket, and from the bucket to the tank. It is a definite asset to the outdoor space. Love the ability to control the flow. It is important to keep the water bowl clean and free of debris. No more trying to lift a 5ga bucket full of water!

• Uniclife DEP-4000 Controllable DC Water Pump 1052 GPH with Controller for Marine Freshwater Aquarium Pond Circulation
• Reliable Pump: NO PCB in pump makes it more stable and long-lived than DCT series. High performance of 3 phases 6 poles motor and Wear-resistant Ceramic Shaft.
• Smart Controller: 99 Adjustable Speed & 10 min pause feed mode; memory function can keep the same setting after every restart.
• Multiple-Safe Protection: IC chip control, LACK OF WATER protection, STUCK protection and True Soft Startup
• Submersible&external: Suitable for amphibious use, can operate in Marine and Fresh Water. Make sure to POUR WATER into the pump before EXTERNAL USE.
• Safe low voltage: DC 24 V, Power: 35 W, Max flow: 1052 GPH, Max-head: 11.5 ft.
• Every time press “-” or “+” to adjust the flow rate. Display range: 1~100.
• Flexible to operate with memory function to keep the same setting after every restart.
• Makes the pump more durable and its service life was extended than usual ones.
• Manufacture: Uniclife
• Product Dimensions: 7.09 x 3.15 x 4.33 inches; 3.73 Pounds

• Editor's Impressions Of The Uniclife Uniclife-UL204-1
• Pump Power [star rating='3.3']
• Quality [star rating='5']
• Value For Money [star rating='3.4']
• Affordability [star rating='3.5']

6. hygger 24V DC Water Pump Submersible Saltwater Aquarium Sump Pump with LCD Display Controller 800-26...

User Ratings: 76 7

hygger First Impressions

"Pumps the waterfall up 2."

But i am very unhappy with the alarm as is everyone in my house. And moves a lot of water,if needed! Based upon comments the motor is prolly not consistently manufactured. The design feels solid and the suction cups hold well. THEN THERE WAS A 5 GALLON PAIL OF SUBTRATE. I did need to run it flat out on volume for my fountain at that height. This runs 15 hrs per day for about 4 months.

• hygger 24V DC Water Pump Submersible Saltwater Aquarium Sump Pump with LCD Display Controller 800-2650 GPH
• DC Powered Controllable Water Pump — DC motor with magnetic drive and ceramic shaft design, extremely powerful, energy saving yet very quiet, this dc pump only uses 24 volts power saving 65% energy over traditional pump, safe & low consumption
• Easy to Read External Controller — Build in external controller, easy to operate, offers up to 71 speed setting for you to customize water flow and feeding setting ( turn the pump off for 10 minutes for feeding). Easy to read red Led display
• Inline or Submersible — This Versatile Water Pump can be used either submersible or in-line in Freshwater or Saltwater. Ideal for sump tank, freshwater and saltwater aquariums, ponds, waterfalls, fountains and water features
• Auto Shut Off — Water Pump will automatically power off for 2 minutes when detects no water or over voltage. Enables memory function. Comes with two types intake screens, it will handle debris up to 2/3 inch, preventing clogging and reducing maintenance
• Flow Rate 1060 GPH ; Max Lift: 13.1', 33 Watts, output voltage 24V DC, input voltage 100-240V. Comes with 2 pcs screws (1-1/8", 1-3/8"), 2 pcs o rings and 4 pcs pipe connection fittings (3/4", 1" OD). (PS: hose is not included)
• Take off the intake cover, then connect inlet and outlet with adaptors to hoses
• Make sure water pump placed underneath water level
• Pour water from inlet hose into pump
• Manufacture: hygger

• Editor's Impressions Of The hygger
• Pump Power [star rating='4.3']
• Quality [star rating='3.8']
• Value For Money [star rating='3.7']
• Affordability [star rating='4.3']

7. Yochaqute 24V Aquarium DC Return Water Pump Flow Pump 3170 GPH with Controller Wave Function for Pon...

User Ratings: 54 15

YCTECH First Impressions

"Best decision ever."

I changed to a 65GPH pump with good results. Wife had bought a small fountain at Goodwill and the pump was bad. This brought the relative humidity up to about 64%. Ordered this one and received it in one day. Eventually, I had the hose squirting water on the inside of the right pane of glass. I have over 17 tanks so water changes take forever with python or buckets. The physical size is great, and the pump itself is very quiet.

• Yochaqute 24V Aquarium DC Return Water Pump Flow Pump 3170 GPH with Controller Wave Function for Ponds Aquarium Statuary Hydroponics Aquaponics 12000L/H
• Demension & Specifications: Powerful and ultra quiet water return pump. Output voltage: DC 24V. Cord length from the pump to controller is 6ft, the power cord length is 6.6ft. Wattage/flow/head: 100W/3170GPH/26ft head. Nozzles size: 30/35 mm.
• Multiple Usage: It's great for a variety of application in pond, fish tank, fountains, waterfalls, hydroponic systems, irrigation systems. We provide a 1-year warranty for this water pump. If you are not completely satisfied with our water pump or receive a defective product, we are happy to find an acceptable solution. Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns
• Adjustable Flow Speed: This aquarium water pump has an external Led display controller, with 20 flow speed settings, you can control the flow rate from 101 to 120 of the top speed flow. 4 buttons on the controller: "+" "-" "Feed" "Wave"
• Internal & External Use: YCTECH DC water pump can be ran externally or be submerged. Please note the controller is not waterproof, must be placed indoors. The pond pump comes with screws, o rings, pipe connection fittings.
• Durable Water Pump: Wear-resistant ceramic shaft and magnetic drive makes this water pump a long service life. No copper element, can be used for fresh water or salt water
• Manufacture: YCTECH
• Item Weight: 6.72 pounds
• Size: 3170GPH, 100W, 26ft lift
• Power Source: Corded Electric
• Batteries Included?: No

• Editor's Impressions Of The YCTECH
• Pump Power [star rating='2.9']
• Quality [star rating='3.5']
• Value For Money [star rating='3.1']
• Affordability [star rating='3.6']

8. Orlushy 24V DC Aquarium Water Pump Ultra-Quiet Return Pump with up to 20 Speed Settings and 3 Operat...

User Ratings: 77 5

Orlushy First Impressions

"It's very quiet."

I have all that running at 17-watts. Quiet and flows well for a pump that is only a couple inches in size. Quiet while running and great suction. Note that the barb adapter sizes are different depending on the pump model. The physical size is great, and the pump itself is very quiet. Unfortunately, it doesn't come with a tube. The design feels solid and the suction cups hold well.

• Orlushy 24V DC Aquarium Water Pump Ultra-Quiet Return Pump with up to 20 Speed Settings and 3 Operation Modes for Submersible or External Use
• 【Ultra-Quiet Motor】: Orlushy DC water pump adopts sine wave technology, running super quietly, causing minimum sound effect to daily life of the users.
• 【Specification & Dimensions】：Output voltage: DC 24V, wattage: 40w, max flow rate: 1300GPH, max head height: 13.5ft, dimension: 6.7’’×3.3’’×4’’, please choose the right pump according to our size chart.
• 【Adjustable Flow Speed And Modes】：Variable speed control with more than 20 different speed settings, offer precise adjustment of water flow to reach the optimum performance. Three operation mode settings: Constant Flow Mode, Wave Mode, Feed.
• 【Submersible & External】： Orlushy DC water pump can be submersible or external(inline) use, with wear-resistant ceramic shaft is suitable for salt and fresh. And it is an ideal water pump for indoor use.
• 【Multiple Safe-Protection】： IC electronic detection, and low voltage DC24V power supply. The water pump is Equipped with automatic power-off, the controller displays ERR, the pump stop, preventing the occurrence of faults caused by low water level.
• Manufacture: nova

• Editor's Impressions Of The Orlushy
• Pump Power [star rating='4.3']
• Quality [star rating='3.6']
• Value For Money [star rating='4.4']
• Affordability [star rating='3.6']

9. AQUANEAT Aquarium Powerhead Pump, Fish Tank Circulation Pump, Saltwater Wave Maker, Submersible Wate...

User Ratings: 58

AQUANEAT First Impressions

"Quiet and efficient."

I do encourage the purchase of these pumps. I recommend this small, very economical pump! I have never had any issues with them. The smaller waterfalls are run by another one of these on a split line. This pump works great for my sugar kettle fountain. It is important to keep the water bowl clean and free of debris. I keep the water stored in a 5 gal bucket and this pump is perfect for the size.

• AQUANEAT Aquarium Powerhead Pump, Fish Tank Circulation Pump, Saltwater Wave Maker, Submersible Water Pump, Magnetic Base
• Flow Rate: 1300GPH (4900L/H), ideal for 90-125 gallon freshwater tank or 65-90 gallon saltwater tank.
• Enhance Filtration: 360° rotation flow directions make it easy to keep debris from building up and keep the tank clean.
• Improve Circulation: Create water movement and agitate the top water increasing the dissolved oxygen for fish, corals and other aquatic plants to thrive.
• Strong Magnet: Fixed by magnet and easier to adjust the position by moving the external magnet.
• Dimension: 4.25 x 3 x 3 inches (L x W x H); includes: 1pc 1300GPH circulation pump. Note: Must be totally submersed under water and do not use with a timer or controller.
• Manufacture: AQUANEAT

• Editor's Impressions Of The AQUANEAT
• Pump Power [star rating='4.9']
• Quality [star rating='5']
• Value For Money [star rating='5']
• Affordability [star rating='5']

10. Eheim AEH1262310 Universal Aquarium Water Pump

User Ratings: 77 5

Eheim 57112184 First Impressions

"Perfect fit."

I use it for water changes in my aquarium. The video shows the pump at full throttle and can be adjusted lower. Absolutely silent, and has 4 little silicone suction cup feet to isolate vibration. I recommend this small, very economical pump! I'd compare it to the new Hydors with the controllers. Unfortunately somehow, storing it over last winter, the plug has gone missing. Quiet and flows well for a pump that is only a couple inches in size.

• Eheim AEH1262310 Universal Aquarium Water Pump
• World-renowned aquarium pump boasts exceptional quality and reliable performance
• Epoxy filled, hermetically sealed, low energy consumption motors result in silent, efficient operation while surpassing the highest safety standards
• Run internally or externally in fresh or saltwater; Barb I/O fittings with built-in twist clamp
• Manufacture: TopDawg Pet Supply
• Product Dimensions: 4.57 x 8.58 x 6.33 inches; 5.5 Pounds

• Editor's Impressions Of The Eheim 57112184
• Pump Power [star rating='4']
• Quality [star rating='4.2']
• Value For Money [star rating='3.6']
• Affordability [star rating='5']