The 10 Best Aquarium Filters of 2024: Maxxi, SunSun E.t.c.
In need of the best aquarium filters that are durable and affordable? Here we’ve listed the top best fish tank filters in the market to choose from, the below selection reveals the ranking of the 10 best filters on the market!
If you are a lover of marine life, you know how important it is to provide fish with a healthy environment. In this sense, buying the best aquarium filter will guarantee the clean place that these beautiful creatures deserve. Not only will the fish gain quality of life, but you as the owner will have an attractive environment at home.
The aquarium filter will help you improve the quality of the water where fish and plants live. Furthermore, the device will remove impurities and oxygenate the water, keeping the environment in balance. This way, you will have more harmony in your aquarium, favoring the development of the species that live in it.
To create the right environment for fish, it is essential to have the best equipment at hand. In view of this, our team has put together tips and suggestions on how you can choose the best aquarium filter and a ranking of the 10 best products on the market. So, continue reading and discover how to purchase the ideal filter for raising fish at home.
How to Choose the Best Aquarium Filter
Before purchasing an aquarium filter, you should pay attention to the specifications of the device. This way, you will know whether the filtration or type of filter will meet the capacity of your container. Therefore, check out the tips below on how to choose the best filter for aquariums.
■ Choose the best aquarium filter according to the type
Although they have the same function, different types of filters have their own measurements and specifications. In this sense, you must look at the type of device and assess whether it will be useful for your aquarium.
Furthermore, the position of the device will influence the distance to the power outlet or take up space in the aquarium. To find out more, check out below!
Hang On Filter: works externally and doesn’t take up much space
The Hang On filter is an external filter that saves space inside the aquarium. All because this type of filter is outside the container, attached to the glass wall. Additionally, the Hang On filter is larger, allowing you to add more filter media to the device.
This filter resembles a waterfall, as the water rises through the pipe, passes through the filtration system and leaks over the top. If you hate noise, this will be the best aquarium filter that doesn’t make noise. Before purchasing, check the space behind your aquarium, as some Hang On filters measure up to 18 cm in length and 25 cm in height on average.
Canister filter: has internal and external version
The Canister type filter is versatile, as the internal and external versions offer more fitting possibilities. While the external version has a pump that receives water to filter it and return it to the aquarium, the internal version sucks the water. Even though the versions work in different ways, the filtering result is the same.
For those who like variety in cleaning, the Canister filter will be the best aquarium filter. After all, it accepts different filtration media, whether biological, mechanical or chemical. However, you must choose quality media for the device to filter efficiently.
Sump: recommended for aquariums with large fish
This device takes water from the aquarium to an external box. This box then filters the water and returns it to the aquarium through a pump.
According to experienced aquarists, the Sump filter is the best filter for those with a large aquarium. In addition to being cheaper and having affordable maintenance, the Sump filter is versatile and reduces temperature changes while circulating the water. Therefore, you will have a functional, stylish and discreet filter, as it can be hidden under the aquarium.
UV filter: not necessarily a filter, but it is efficient in sterilizing water
Although it is not an aquarium filter like other models, the UV filter helps to sterilize the water in the environment. As the water passes through an internal chamber, the device emits UV-type radiation onto the liquid. As a result, the concentration of microorganisms in the water decreases considerably.
This type of device is the best filter for an aquarium with an excessive presence of algae. If the water in your aquarium is dirty because of these microorganisms, you can clean it using the UV filter.
Internal foam filter: it is mostly used in simple aquariums
The internal filter will be the best aquarium filter without space in the back. All because it is placed directly in the water, performing mechanical and biological filtration through the foam. In addition to cleaning and helping with water circulation, the internal filter is silent and more accessible than other models.
You must pay attention to the size of the internal filter, as the device will share space with the fish. Therefore, observe the dimensions of the filter in relation to the size of the aquarium. During your research you will notice that some models reach 30 cm in height, 5 cm in width and up to 14 cm in length. Therefore, choose a device that does the filtering, but without taking up space for the fish.
■ Look for an aquarium filter with more than one type of filtration
The quality of the water in your aquarium is determined by the type of filtration the environment receives. In this sense, the best aquarium filter must be able to remove impurities from plants, food and chemicals. Therefore, it is essential that you choose a device capable of doing more than one type of filtering.
Mechanics: first filtering stage
Organic remains in the aquarium, such as fish waste, plant remains and food, turn into ammonia. Therefore, mechanical filtration is essential to remove this toxic substance for fish. Devices that perform mechanical filtration have a sponge that holds and prevents ammonia particles from returning to the aquarium.
Mechanical filtration will prevent your aquarium waste from sticking and clogging other parts of the filter. To do this, you must clean the device’s sponges every 2 weeks. According to experts, you should use aquarium water to clean the sponges, as this way the bacteria that help with chemical cleaning will not be lost.
Chemistry: second filtration stage
Chemical filtration serves to clean water, removing cloudy color, bad odors and residues, such as heavy metals and ammonia. It happens through filtering material, whether activated carbon or polymer. Even though activated charcoal is affordable, its cleaning effect is short-lived. Therefore, if possible, choose filter polymer, as it does not have a limited duration.
As it is not standard filtration in devices, the best aquarium filter you purchase must have chemical filtration. This way, it will be possible to maintain the appearance and quality of the aquarium water at healthy levels. Therefore, you should prioritize devices that perform chemical filtration. If necessary, purchase an activated carbon or polymer sponge separately.
Biological: third and final filtration stage
During chemical filtration, bacteria consume ammonia, transforming it into nitrite. The bacteria then consume the ammonia to transform it into nitrate, substances that are even less toxic to fish. In this last stage, the nitrite will be removed by partially changing the water in the aquarium.
If possible, choose the best aquarium filter with biological filtration. By purchasing porous filter media, such as ceramic, you will encourage the growth of bacteria capable of chemical and biological filtration in your aquarium. Therefore, invest in the triple cleaning system and you will have a 100% healthy aquarium.
■ Check the size and weight of the aquarium filter
The size and weight of the best aquarium filter will impact the performance of the device. After all, a small filter is not suitable for large aquariums, making the device’s performance less than expected. Therefore, you should look at the specifications of the device and check if it is suitable for your demands.
On average, the weight of filters varies from 350 g to 1.2 kg. As for size, they can reach more than 30 cm in height. Therefore, check whether your aquarium will support the weight and size of the filter. Finally, never buy a filter that is too large for a small aquarium, as the weight of the product will affect the structure of the container.
■ See how many liters the aquarium filter can filter per hour
The flow rate of the best aquarium filter indicates how many liters of water the device’s pump can circulate every hour. According to experts, ideally the pump can circulate at least up to 5 times the volume of the aquarium within 1 hour. For example, if the total volume of your aquarium is 150 L, the filter must have a flow rate of 750 L/h.
In part, the flow rate of the device will also depend on the amount of waste that the fish in the aquarium produce. Therefore, if the fish get very dirty, the best option is for the filter to be able to filter up to 10 times the volume of the aquarium. However, if the species in your aquarium are not that messy, smaller filters will do the job.
■ See the noise level of the aquarium filter
The internal filter uses a compressor to send air into the aquarium, causing a lot of noise. Furthermore, this type of filter tends to vibrate while it works, increasing the noise even more. Therefore, the internal filter may not be the best aquarium filter for people who hate noise.
On the other hand, the external filter is usually quieter than the internal filter. Although the movement of water when placed back in the aquarium causes noise, the noise from the device is quieter and more discreet. Therefore, choose an external aquarium filter. Furthermore, always keep the aquarium full of water, as the noise from falling water will be much less.
■ Check if the aquarium filter has extra features
The best aquarium filter should offer you some extra features. This way, you will have a more satisfactory experience while maintaining your aquarium. Furthermore, the species that live in this environment will also have a better quality of life.
During your research, check whether the device has protective foam that prevents small fish from being sucked in. Furthermore, see if the device restarts automatically after experiencing power outages. Finally, also check if the filter has an adjustable water flow, which will reduce possible noise.
Top 10 Best Aquarium Filters of 2024
After learning the tips on how to buy the best aquarium filter, you will learn about some of the best-rated models on the market. You will not only have access to the specifications but also to the benefits and differences of the devices. Therefore, see below the 10 best aquarium filters of 2024.
10. Popetpop Aquarium Sponge Filter
If you are looking for a durable and efficient cleaning sponge, the Popetpop aquarium sponge will be a great purchase. After all, the sponge is resistant, made from premium material and simple to use. Furthermore, the product is great for foraging and cleaning waste from an aquarium and has a great price.
Versatile, the sponge can be used in aquariums and fresh and saltwater tanks. Since it has excellent filtration, this sponge is ideal for removing residue and maintaining water quality. As a result, your fish will live longer and better, developing in a clean and oxygenated aquarium.
Because it is a sponge, the Popetpop material will be the best aquarium filter for those who cannot spend a lot. After all, the product is affordable and can be reused after cleaning the container. Given these advantages, choose the Popetpop aquarium sponge filter for more cleaning possibilities.
| Type | Foam interior |
|---|---|
| Filtering | Mechanics and chemistry |
| Size | 50.01 x 11 x 2.01 cm |
| Weight | 58.97g |
| Vol/Aquarius | Undefined |
| Flow/h | Does not have |
| Extras | As it is a sponge, it can be cut as needed. |
| Noise | Internal |
9. SunSun Jp-023f Filter – 110v
For people who have larger aquariums, the Jp-023f – from SunSun will be the best filter for this container. After all, the device has a flow rate of 1000 L/h, perfect for aquariums up to 200 liters . This way, the fish will always have a clean, well-maintained environment and you will be guaranteed efficient filtration.
The Jp-023f is considered the best filter for a large aquarium because it cleans the environment on three levels. In other words, it performs the mechanical, chemical and biological filtration of the aquarium perfectly. As a result, the species in the aquarium, whether plants or fish, will have a longer quality of life.
In addition to excellent circulation, you can also adjust the water output of the device. Not enough, the discreet appearance will not interfere much with the look of the aquarium. Therefore, if you want a device with excellent flow, discreet and triple filtration, choose the SunSun Jp-023f internal filter.
| Type | Canister |
|---|---|
| Filtering | Mechanical, chemical and biological |
| Size | 32.2 x 5.8 x 10.7 cm |
| Weight | 500 g |
| Vol/Aquarius | Suitable for aquariums up to 200 liters |
| Flow/h | 1000 L/h |
| Extras | Oxygen regulator (reduces the flow of bubbles) |
| Noise | Internal |
8. Leecom Ext filter for aquariums HI-330
If you don’t want to give up an efficient filter, you will certainly like the Ext Leecom HI-330 aquarium filter. Being an external filter, it will not take up space inside your aquarium. Not enough, it is silent, simple to install and easy to maintain.
Regarding capacity, the Ext Leecom HI-330 filter is ideal for aquariums of up to 50 liters, with a flow rate of 280 L/h. Although it is recommended for medium-sized aquariums, this device performs mechanical, chemical and biological filtration. Furthermore, the price is quite attractive for the benefits it offers.
Regarding differentials, the device has a stainless steel shaft, water adjustment and electrical cable with double insulation. Furthermore, the engine is coated with epoxy resin that protects it against water. Therefore, if you want the guarantee of complete cleaning of your aquarium, choose the Ext Leecom HI-330 filter.
| Type | Hang On |
|---|---|
| Filtering | Mechanical, chemical and biological |
| Size | 20 x 20 x 20 cm |
| Weight | 1.2 kg |
| Vol/Aquarius | Suitable for aquariums up to 50 liters |
| Flow/h | 280 L/h |
| Extras | Adjustable water flow |
| Noise | External |
7. Bacteria filter for aquarium Zanclus Fbm 155
For those who are concerned about the quality of the water in their aquarium, the Zanclus Fbm 155 bacteria filter will be very useful. All because the device performs the mechanical, chemical and biological filtration of the aquarium. This way, you will keep your fish’s environment clean and free of toxic substances.
Despite being a lightweight filter, the device is recommended for aquariums up to 150 liters. With great internal space, you will be able to use more filter media to ensure effective filtration in your aquarium.
The filter is simple to install, as well as easy to clean when necessary. Furthermore, you will have more autonomy to choose the type of filtering media to be placed on the device. Therefore, if you need the best aquarium filter to guarantee water cleanliness and fish protection, choose the Zanclus Fbm 155 bacteria filter.
| Type | Canister |
|---|---|
| Filtering | Mechanical, chemical and biological |
| Size | 20 X 27 X 14 cm |
| Weight | 350 g |
| Vol/Aquarius | Suitable for aquariums up to 150 liters |
| Flow/h | Not specified by the manufacturer |
| Extras | Internal layers for placing filter materials |
| Noise | Internal |
6. SunSun HBL-302 Filter
For those who like an effective filter at an affordable price, SunSun’s HBL-302 will please you a lot. Even though it is an external filter, the device’s pump is placed inside the aquarium. Therefore, you do not need to completely fill the filter before activating it. Furthermore, it is ideal for those looking for a filter with excellent quality and durability.
In order to improve filtration, the HBL-302 filter features activated carbon and acrylic wool. Furthermore, the porous surface will favor the development of bacteria that are beneficial to the biological cleaning of the aquarium. Not enough, you can still add another filter media to the device structure.
Also, this will be the best filter for small aquarium. The device not only takes up little space, but is also simple to assemble and maintain. So, if you are looking for an affordable, adjustable filter with an excellent filtration system, choose the SunSun HBL-302.
| Type | Hang On |
|---|---|
| Filtering | Mechanical, chemical and biological |
| Size | 14.4 x 9.5 x 14.4 cm |
| Weight | 322 g |
| Vol/Aquarius | Suitable for aquariums up to 70 liters |
| Flow/h | 350 L/h |
| Extras | Adjustable water flow |
| Noise | External |
5. Sunsun Aquarium Filter HBL-501
If you’re the type of person who hates difficult installations, the Sunsun HBL-501 will be a great choice. After all, it is simple to install, taking just a few minutes to start the first filtration. Since it is a Hang On type filter, simply place the fitting strip next to or behind the aquarium.
This will be the best filter for a small aquarium as it is lightweight and compact. Furthermore, the device is not that big, making it ideal for those who want to save space. While it works, SunSun’s HBL-501 filter will prevent a layer of oil or algae from forming on the surface of the water.
Like other HBL models, this device has activated carbon in the filter. As a result, your fish will not suffer from cloudy water nor will you experience any bad odors. Therefore, if you are looking for a discreet, efficient and simple-to-use device, choose the Sunsun HBL-501 external aquarium filter.
| Type | Hang On |
|---|---|
| Filtering | Mechanics and chemistry |
| Size | 12 x 12 x 13 cm |
| Weight | 450 g |
| Vol/Aquarius | Suitable for aquariums up to 80 liters |
| Flow/h | 400 L/h |
| Extras | Adjustable water flow |
| Noise | External |
4. Sunsun Filter JP 032F
For those who cannot spend a lot on aquarium maintenance and are looking for a good value for money, the Sunsun JP 032F internal aquarium filter will be the perfect choice. The filter is not only cheap in value but also offers excellent performance. Furthermore, it does not consume as much energy, making it ideal for long-term use.
This filter is very simple to install and the pump can be attached to the aquarium wall using a suction cup. As it filters the water, the device ensures improved oxygenation and cleaning of the environment. This way, your fish and aquatic plants will have a more favorable environment for growth.
The SunSun filter performs mechanical and biological filtration, maintaining the stability of the water current. So, if you need the best aquarium filter to be affordable, easy to install, and efficient, go for the Sunsun JP 032F internal aquarium filter.
| Type | Canister |
|---|---|
| Filtering | Mechanical and biological |
| Size | 17.8 x 10.4 x 6 cm |
| Weight | 700 g |
| Vol/Aquarius | Suitable for aquariums up to 70 liters |
| Flow/h | 350 L/h |
| Extras | Pressure regulator and water outlet adapter |
| Noise | Internal |
3. SunSun Filter 220 V
This filter is recommended for people who like to pay for a product with great durability. As the SunSun 600 L/h 220 V internal filter is made of ABS, the device will last a long time. Furthermore, the rotor and core shafts will not suffer from the effects of corrosion.
With excellent insulation and waterproofness, the SunSun filter has a bio-sponge compartment. This way, the beneficial bacteria for cleaning the aquarium will develop easily. Thus, fish and other species will live in filtered water with excellent oxygenation.
You can use the multi-spray tube or conventional tube to add air bubbles to the water. Despite the great features and great flow rate of 600 L/h, this filter is simple to clean. Therefore, if you need the best aquarium filter to be efficient, with excellent flow and filtration, choose the SunSun 600 L/h 220 V internal filter.
| Type | Canister |
|---|---|
| Filtering | Mechanical, chemical and biological |
| Size | 6 x 10 x 17 cm |
| Weight | 400 g |
| Vol/Aquarius | Suitable for aquariums up to 120 liters |
| Flow/h | 600 L/h |
| Extras | Does not have |
| Noise | Internal |
2. Maxxi Power Filter 240L EH 220V
Ideal for those who keep small fish, the 240L EH 220V external filter from Maxxi Power will make a difference in your aquarium. All because it has a protective foam that prevents the filter from pulling in smaller fish, fry or shrimp. Furthermore, the device has a system that restarts the device after power outages and has the best balance between cost and quality.
If you hate noise, this will be the best filter for a home aquarium, as the device produces little noise. Even with a flow rate of 240 L/h, the Maxxi Power filter will not cause discomfort to your ears and is simple to use. Furthermore, flow control will give you the control you need to regulate the flow of water.
In order to facilitate use, the manufacturer has already added a ready-to-use filter to the packaging. However, to maintain the quality of your aquarium cleaning, it is essential that you change the filter refill monthly. So, if you want a clean and safe aquarium for your fish, choose the 240L EH 220V Maxxi Power external filter.
| Type | Hang On |
|---|---|
| Filtering | Mechanics |
| Size | 11 x 13.5 x 14.5 cm |
| Weight | 600 g |
| Vol/Aquarius | Suitable for aquariums up to 60 liters |
| Flow/h | 240 L/h |
| Extras | Restarts after power outages, foam that protects fish |
| Noise | External |
1. Aquarium Filter HBL-801
Ideal for those looking for a complete filtration system, the Canister Hang On HBL-801 filter guarantees a clean aquarium. With five filtration trays, this modern aquarium filter allows for complete cleaning of the environment. Since the filtration systems are individual, you can change them whenever you feel necessary.
Like other HBL models, this external filter is simple to install. You just need to place the coupling strip behind or next to the aquarium to start cleaning the aquarium, in this sense, it is ideal for those looking for a practical model. The best thing is that the HBL-801 filter has a flow rate of 500 L/h, perfect for those with aquariums of up to 100 liters.
With more space to include filter media, you will efficiently clean the aquarium mechanically, chemically and biologically. This way, you and your fish will benefit from the product’s excellent value for money for a long time. Therefore, choose the Canister Hang On HBL-801, the best aquarium filter available on the market.
| Type | Canister |
|---|---|
| Filtering | Mechanical, chemical and biological |
| Size | 27.8 x 15.2 x 14.2 cm |
| Weight | 1,120kg |
| Vol/Aquarius | Suitable for aquariums up to 100 liters |
| Flow/h | 500 L/h |
| Extras | Control over flow rate |
| Noise | External |
Other information about aquarium filter
After discovering the best aquarium filter, it’s time for you to find out other useful information about the device. This way, you will make better use of the device, preserving its useful life. Therefore, check out other information about aquarium filters below.
■ What is an aquarium filter?
In principle, the aquarium filter is a device that filters and cleans the water inside the container. Using filter media, the device sucks water and holds toxic substances and waste that cause problems for fish and plants. To this end, some devices have a pump that increases the water flow and speeds up the process, although this is not mandatory.
Although the best aquarium filter is essential for filtering the water, it is the media and bacteria that do the cleaning. In other words, the filter serves to pull water so that the filter media and bacteria clean the water.
■ How to clean an aquarium filter?
First, unplug the appliance and remove the moving components to clean them. According to experienced aquarists, you should use water from your own aquarium in order to preserve nitrifying bacteria. Once this is done, wash the filter components well and reassemble the parts.
Use a siphon to remove dirt from the bottom of the aquarium. Then, use a brush on the inside of the glass and decoration to remove the algae. After that, change part of the water, removing 25% to 40% of the liquid with the siphon and add clean water with conditioner to neutralize the chlorine.
You should never empty the aquarium, as this will cause the loss of filtering bacteria, damaging the balance of the environment. Finally, clean it periodically, keeping the aquarium clean for the animals.
Read Also: Top Fin Filter Not Working? Troubleshoot Causes & Quick Fix
Buy the best aquarium filter for your fish!
With the information in this article, you have everything you need to buy the best aquarium filter. Therefore, be picky and choose a great device to clean the container. If possible, make a list of the characteristics, flow rate and average price to help you during the purchase.
You should also consider the capacity of your aquarium and which filter is best for it. This way, you will ensure that the chosen device will support a large flow rate for longer. So, consider the tips above and ensure an always clean and healthy aquarium for your pet fish!
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