Aquarium Filters: 6 Types Explained & Reviewed

If you’re even thinking about getting an aquarium, you need to get a filter for it as well. In fact, it’s in your best interest (and in the best interest of your fish) that you get the best aquarium filter you possibly can.

best rated aquarium filters reviews

To understand why try to imagine your fish as a dog. You’ve kept him in a kennel permanently, and he can’t get out for anything. So he poops inside his “home”. You give him food, and his uneaten food spoils and rots. Mold can come in through the window and puts your pet at risk of illness. If someone finds out you’re doing this, you’re going to get yourself arrested for animal cruelty.

Six Aquarium Filter Types

If you’re a beginner you may be overwhelmed by the many different types of filters. They can be submersible or non-submersible. They can remove unwanted substances biologically, chemically, or mechanically. Here are some particular types of filters, with aquarium filter reviews for the examples for each type.

Sponge Filters

Box Filters or Corner Filters

Under Gravel Filters (UGF)

Hang on Back (HOB) Filter

Trickle Filters (wet/dry)

Canister Filters


FAQs about Filters

What Is an Aquarium Filter and Why Do I Need It?

Can I keep my small/nano aquarium without filter?

Can I use a filter if I have live plants?

How to install?

What type of aquarium filter is best?

In any case, just don’t forget the cardinal rule: YOU NEED A FILTER!

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