Editor's Choice - Our Favorite Salt Water Aquarium Water Pumps

1. FREESEA Aquarium Wave Maker Power Head Circulation Pump with Magnet Suction Base for 20-100 Gallon F...

User Ratings: 64 8

FREESEA First Impressions

"50-gal tank."

Enough power for two tubes, good water flow. Almost too powerful for my fountains. Mine can pump 30 gallons in about a minute and a half. I recommend this small, very economical pump! May 2020; Just received this and so far am really happy. This pump is great,its small and you can hook to a water hose to drain. I do encourage the purchase of these pumps.

• FREESEA Aquarium Wave Maker Power Head Circulation Pump with Magnet Suction Base for 20-100 Gallon Fish Tank
• Aquarium Water Circulation: This wave maker pump simulates a gentle flow helping the tanks feel more like the ocean. It is designed to stir up debris and make wave in the water. In addition, this pump can be used to increase the oxygen level of the water.
• Powerful & Quiet: 8W, 1600GPH submersible powerhead is higher flow rates and lower energy consumption. Double head makes strong waves to circulate the water quietly and efficiently. The stable magnetic base reduces noise when running and prevents the pump from falling off.
• Easy to Install: With a magnetic bracket which is easy to install and allows you to position the pump virtually anywhere in your aquarium. A adjustable ring with fine slots prevent baby fishes, corals and sea stars from getting involved.The head rotates a full 360 degrees, offering full control of the direction of flow, creating natural water motion.
• Application: FREESEA wave pump improve water circulation and oxygenation, which is good for fishes' healthy growth. Constructed of Anti-corrosion titanium impellers, it can be used safely in both fresh water and salt water, all kinds of fish tanks, Water grass aquarium,coral aquariums.
• Satisfaction Guaranteed: Gain the confidence to go hard with us! In the remote possibility that you’re not satisfied with our product, just contact us, and we will gladly give you a new Circulation Pump replacement. 12 Month Warranty and 24 Hour Professional After-sales Service.
• Manufacture: FREESEA

• Editor's Impressions Of The FREESEA
• Pump Power [star rating='3.7']
• Quality [star rating='4.1']
• Value For Money [star rating='4']
• Affordability [star rating='4.7']

Peoples Choice - Other Highly Rated Salt Water Aquarium Water Pumps

2. FREESEA Aquarium Wave Maker Power Head Circulation Pump with Magnet Suction Base for 20-80 Gallon Fi...

User Ratings: 65 6

FREESEA First Impressions

"Just to have on hand."

No more back breaking effort with 5 gallon bucks. It's very quick, and does an excellent job. It does NOT come with an electric switch. Might be a good idea for them to figure out how to ship the tubing more reliably. The smaller waterfalls are run by another one of these on a split line. I've been using mine now for over three months and it is working beautifully. Ended up removing pump from aquarium after 3 days of relentless noise.

• FREESEA Aquarium Wave Maker Power Head Circulation Pump with Magnet Suction Base for 20-80 Gallon Fish Tank
• Aquarium Water Circulation: This wave maker pump simulates a gentle flow helping the tanks feel more like the ocean. It is designed to stir up debris and make wave in the water. In addition, this pump can be used to increase the oxygen level of the water.
• Powerful & Quiet: 8W, 1600GPH submersible powerhead is higher flow rates and lower energy consumption. Double head makes strong waves to circulate the water quietly and efficiently. The stable magnetic base reduces noise when running and prevents the pump from falling off.
• Easy to Install: With a magnetic bracket which is easy to install and allows you to position the pump virtually anywhere in your aquarium. A adjustable ring with fine slots prevent baby fishes, corals and sea stars from getting involved.The head rotates a full 360 degrees, offering full control of the direction of flow, creating natural water motion.
• Application: FREESEA wave pump improve water circulation and oxygenation, which is good for fishes' healthy growth. Constructed of Anti-corrosion titanium impellers, it can be used safely in both fresh water and salt water, all kinds of fish tanks, Water grass aquarium,coral aquariums.
• Satisfaction Guaranteed: Gain the confidence to go hard with us! In the remote possibility that you’re not satisfied with our product, just contact us, and we will gladly give you a new Circulation Pump replacement. 12 Month Warranty and 24 Hour Professional After-sales Service.
• Manufacture: FREESEA
• Product Dimensions: 6.3 x 4.9 x 4.4 inches; 1.25 Pounds

• Editor's Impressions Of The FREESEA
• Pump Power [star rating='3.6']
• Quality [star rating='3.7']
• Value For Money [star rating='4.4']
• Affordability [star rating='4.9']

3. 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']

4. AQQA Wave Maker Pump, 530GPH 2100GPH Aquarium Circulation Pump 360 Degree Rotatable Submersible Powe...

User Ratings: 71 7

AQQA First Impressions

"- Cord is a bit short."

That was barely within the pump's capability. That was barely within the pump's capability. Great little pump for small aquariums and waterfalls. I will be ordering another one to have on-hand in case this one fails next season. It's very quick, and does an excellent job. These are bags you put carbon in for filters. This is the perfect little pump for my application.

• AQQA Wave Maker Pump, 530GPH 2100GPH Aquarium Circulation Pump 360 Degree Rotatable Submersible Powerhead Pump with Magnet Suction Base for Marine and Freshwater Aquariums Fish Tank
• AQUARIUM WATER CIRCULATION: This wave maker pump simulates a gentle flow helping the tanks feel more like the ocean. It is designed to stir up debris and make wave in the water. In addition, this pump can be used to increase the oxygen level of the water
• POWERFUL & QUIET: 3W, 530GPH submersible powerhead is higher flow rates and lower energy consumption. Single head makes strong waves to circulate the water quietly and efficiently. The stable magnetic base reduces noise when running and prevents the pump from falling off
• 360-DEGREES ADJUSTABLE DIRECTION: The head rotates a full 360 degrees, offering full control of the direction of flow, creating natural water motion. Eliminate dead spots in your aquarium with the flow wave pump
• EASY TO INSTALL: With a magnetic bracket which is easy to install and allows you to position the pump virtually anywhere in your aquarium. A adjustable ring with fine slots prevent baby fishes, corals and sea stars from getting involved
• WIDE APPLICATION: AQQA wave pump improve water circulation and oxygenation, which is good for fishes' healthy growth. Constructed of Anti-corrosion titanium impellers, it can be used safely in both fresh water and salt water, all kinds of fish tanks, Water grass aquarium,coral aquariums
• Manufacture: AQQA

• Editor's Impressions Of The AQQA
• Pump Power [star rating='3.5']
• Quality [star rating='4.4']
• Value For Money [star rating='4.3']
• Affordability [star rating='3.6']

Honorable Mentions - More Top Selling Salt Water Aquarium Water Pumps

5. 950/1200/1375/2100 GPH Submersible Frequency Water Pump Aquarium Fish Pond Hydroponics

User Ratings: 71 8

Polar Aurora First Impressions

"Works great."

So I connect a pump to tubing and run to a drain. This is the perfect little pump for my application. The pump's base is sturdy and appears well made. I have over 17 tanks so water changes take forever with python or buckets. This one works perfectly and customer service is superb. One of the best purchases I've ever! I am using one of these pumps on a corner matten sponge filter for a little nano 5.

• 950/1200/1375/2100 GPH Submersible Frequency Water Pump Aquarium Fish Pond Hydroponics
• This pump is good for waterfalls, pond filtration systems, or any other pond application.
• Flow Rate is adjustable
• Safe for fish – no cooper, no oil. Ceramic shaft – corrosion resistant in salt water
• Apply to ponds,rockey,aquarium fish tank with water recycling equipment,waterfalls,garden foundations and other application.
• Prohibit no-load running. Put the pump into water first before connecting power supply. When changing water, please disconnect power supply. It would shorten its lifespan and lead to making loud noises when running in the air for long time.
• Max flow rate: 950 GPH (3600 L/H)
• H-Max (Lift height): 9 feet
• Power: 20 Watt
• Manufacture: Polar Aurora

• Editor's Impressions Of The Polar Aurora
• Pump Power [star rating='5']
• Quality [star rating='4.7']
• Value For Money [star rating='5']
• Affordability [star rating='4.9']

6. 3200/4200 GPH Submersible Frequency Water Pump Aquarium Fish Pond Hydroponics

User Ratings: 65 8

Polar Aurora First Impressions

"The not waterproof plug."

Using right now for my indoor pond for my koi until the one outside is finished. The seller had a new one out to me the same day and I got it in 2 days! BUT IF YOU NEED MORE LIFT JUST USE A SMALLER I. These are bags you put carbon in for filters. I will be ordering another one to have on-hand in case this one fails next season. In-line, out-of-tank, saltwater use. It does NOT come with an electric switch.

• 3200/4200 GPH Submersible Frequency Water Pump Aquarium Fish Pond Hydroponics
• This pump is good for waterfalls, pond filtration systems, or any other pond application.
• Flow Rate is unadjustable
• Safe for fish – no cooper, no oil. Ceramic shaft – corrosion resistant in salt water
• Apply to ponds,rockey,aquarium fish tank with water recycling equipment,waterfalls,garden foundations and other application.
• Prohibit no-load running. Put the pump into water first before connecting power supply. When changing water, please disconnect power supply. It would shorten its lifespan and lead to making loud noises when running in the air for long time.
• Max flow rate: 3200 GPH (12000 L/H)
• H-Max (Lift height): 21.3 feet
• Power: 100 Watt
• Manufacture: Polar Aurora

• Editor's Impressions Of The Polar Aurora
• Pump Power [star rating='3.4']
• Quality [star rating='4.8']
• Value For Money [star rating='4.5']
• Affordability [star rating='3.8']

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. MQ 210-660GPH Submersible Water Pump(15/25/35W) with Handle, Ultra Quiet Pump with High Lift, Founta...

User Ratings: 65 5

MQ First Impressions

"The not waterproof plug."

Saves having to carry buckets of water around. Best emergency replacent I've bought for my 75gallon reef tank! Make sure it's fully submerged, to protect the motor; OURS WORKS GREAT! Both from the tank to the bucket, and from the bucket to the tank. There was still to much water flow. I recommend this small, very economical pump! Would highly recommend if you need to move large volumes of water quickly.

• MQ 210-660GPH Submersible Water Pump(15/25/35W) with Handle, Ultra Quiet Pump with High Lift, Fountain Pump with 2-3 Nozzles for Fish Tank, Pond, Aquarium, Hydroponics
• ULTRA QUIET & ENERGY SAVING: With high quality ceramic shaft, it has the function of low operating noise, strong abrasion, corrosion resistance. Suitable for fresh water and salt water. Voltage: AC110V-120V. Power: 15W
• ANTI-DRY SAFETY DESIGN: Built-in temperature control chip, when the temperature of the motor rises to 185℉, the pump turns off automatically, but the motor restarts after the temperature drops to 140℉.
• ADJUSTABLE FLOW RATE: An Adjustable knob helps control the water flow rate. Max Flow Rate: 210 GPH. Max Lift Height: 5.9 ft. (Length of power cord:1.5M=4.9ft) Size: 4.2in (H)* 4.6in (L) * 2.9in (W)
• DETACHABLE & CLEANABLE: This compact submersible water pump is easy to hide or disguise.The device doesn't need any tools to disassemble it and is very easy to be cleaned. 3 strong suction cups at the bottom of the pump help keep it in place.
• WIDE APPLICATION: Comes with 2 water nozzles (0.51in and 0.63in), providing different water flow effects. This submersible pump is ideal for aquarium, fountains, spout and hydroponic systems, pond, drain water, etc. Backed by 12-month warranty and professional after-sale service within 24hrs
• Power: 15 Watt
• Max Flow Rate: 210 GPH
• Max Lift Height: 5.9 ft
• Manufacture: MQ

• Editor's Impressions Of The MQ
• Pump Power [star rating='3.7']
• Quality [star rating='4.6']
• Value For Money [star rating='4.8']
• Affordability [star rating='5']

9. MQ 330-800GPH Submersible Water Pump(20/30/40W) with Handle, Ultra Quiet Pump with High Lift, Founta...

User Ratings: 61 6

MQ First Impressions

"It was perfect for our 2."

The video shows the pump at full throttle and can be adjusted lower. Other than that the pump works great. I BUILT ONE USING AN INTERNAL FISH FILTER THAT LAID IN THE BOTTO. And moves a lot of water,if needed! Note that the barb adapter sizes are different depending on the pump model. HOSE THE YOU WILL HAVE MORE PREASURE. At least 50% less than big box store's price.

• MQ 330-800GPH Submersible Water Pump(20/30/40W) with Handle, Ultra Quiet Pump with High Lift, Fountain Pump with 2-3 Nozzles for Fish Tank, Pond, Aquarium, Hydroponics
• ULTRA QUIET & ENERGY SAVING: With high quality ceramic shaft, it has the function of low operating noise, strong abrasion, corrosion resistance. Suitable for fresh water and salt water. Voltage: AC110V-120V. Power: 20W
• ANTI-DRY SAFETY DESIGN: Built-in temperature control chip, when the temperature of the motor rises to 185℉, the pump turns off automatically, but the motor restarts after the temperature drops to 140℉.
• ADJUSTABLE FLOW RATE: An Adjustable knob helps control the water flow rate. Max Flow Rate: 330 GPH. Max Lift Height: 5.9 ft. (Length of power cord:1.5M=4.9ft) Size: 4.2in (H)* 4.6in (L) * 2.9in (W)
• DETACHABLE & CLEANABLE: This compact submersible water pump is easy to hide or disguise.The device doesn't need any tools to disassemble it and is very easy to be cleaned. 3 strong suction cups at the bottom of the pump help keep it in place.
• WIDE APPLICATION: Comes with 2 water nozzles (0.51in and 0.63in), providing different water flow effects. This submersible pump is ideal for aquarium, fountains, spout and hydroponic systems, pond, drain water, etc. Backed by 12-month warranty and professional after-sale service within 24hrs
• Power: 20 Watt
• Max Flow Rate: 330 GPH
• Max Lift Height: 5.9 ft
• Manufacture: MQ

• Editor's Impressions Of The MQ
• Pump Power [star rating='3.1']
• Quality [star rating='3.4']
• Value For Money [star rating='4.4']
• Affordability [star rating='3.6']

Here Are Some Other Related Aquarium Water Pumps

10. Uniclife 320-1000 GPH Submersible/Inline Water Pump for Pond Pool Fountain Aquarium Fish Tank

User Ratings: 66 6

Uniclife Uniclife-UL223 First Impressions

"This pump does that."

In-line, out-of-tank, saltwater use. Might be a good idea for them to figure out how to ship the tubing more reliably. The physical size is great, and the pump itself is very quiet. This pump is great,its small and you can hook to a water hose to drain. I will be replacing it with a 1375 GPH pump. HOSE THE YOU WILL HAVE MORE PREASURE. In-line, out-of-tank, saltwater use.

• Uniclife 320-1000 GPH Submersible/Inline Water Pump for Pond Pool Fountain Aquarium Fish Tank
• Can be used either submersible or in-line in Freshwater or Marine water. Indoor & Outdoor use, Ideal for ponds, pools, Waterfalls fountains and large aquariums.
• Premium ceramic shafts and bearings support working over 25,000 hours.
• 10' UL listed SJTW power cord,18# gauge copper, resists oil/grease, able to work under 248℉. 3-Prong grounded plug.
• Easy carry handle. Detachable pump head & suction cup base, easy to clean without using any tools, 4 detachable Strong suction cups hold the pump steadily and keep it quiet.
• Flow Rate of 1000 Gallons per Hour (GPH) @ 0' ft; 800 GPH @ 5' Lift; Max Lift: 10', 80 WATTS, 120V AC, Pumps Dims: 7.5" X 3.7" X 4.7". Come with 2 Outlets Nozzles (3/4", 1" OD) and 1-1/2" OD Inlets Nozzles.
• Three-Prong grounded plug can protect you from electric shock.
• 10' long heavy-duty waterproof power cord can resists oil, moisture and high temperature.
• Manufacture: Uniclife

• Editor's Impressions Of The Uniclife Uniclife-UL223
• Pump Power [star rating='3.6']
• Quality [star rating='4.5']
• Value For Money [star rating='4.4']
• Affordability [star rating='3.6']