Aquarists are always looking for the best fish tanks. This is especially true when they are just starting out in the hobby and want to find the perfect home aquarium for their desk or office. There are a lot of different factors that go into finding a modern fish tank, and it can be tricky to figure out which one is right for you.
In this blog post, we will review some of the best fish tanks on the market and what makes them so great. We will also help you decide which one is right for you and your aquarium setup. So, if you’re interested in learning more about the top fish tanks on the market, keep reading!
- Best for Bettas: Fluval Flex 6 and 15 Gallon
- Best 5 Gallon Tank: Fluval Spec V
- Best Cheap: Marineland Portrait
- Best Large: Coralife Biocube 32
- Best Modern Look: Fluval Edge
- Best Nano: Marineland Contour 3 Gallon Kit
- Best Saltwater: Fluval Evo 13.5
- Best with Waterfall: Fluval Chi
Best Fish Tanks Reviewed
To bring you the best fish tanks on the market we spent many hours carefully analyzing each of the aquarium kits one by one. It has taken us months of study, tests, and effort to narrow it down. We’ve bought each one separately, and we’ve done a more in-depth review of each tank.
The fish tank kits that made the final list offer a great viewing experience, they are stylish and every essential piece of equipment is included in the package. You also have cheap fish tanks to choose from without sacrificing quality.
The Fluval Flex is one of the modern fish tanks that come in both 9-gallon and 15-gallon sizes, making it perfect for Bettas. There is also a Fluval Flex 32.5 gallon model available on the market with the same features as the smaller one. Fluval Flex is a bow-front aquarium with durable glass, making it stand out from others. The black trim around the tank enhances its look and gives it a more finished appearance.
The powerful LED lighting system creates shimmering light effects and mimics natural daylight. This is perfect for your aquatic pets and plants because they will have a more natural environment to live in. The LED lighting system offers 80+ different colors to choose from.
The filter is located at the top of the tank, and it’s very easy to access for maintenance. The filtration system works great in mechanical, chemical, and biological levels. Its quiet and gentle filter makes Fluval Flex the best Betta fish tank. You don’t have to worry about your aquatic pets jumping out because this tank comes with a built-in lid.
Pros
- Brilliant Illumination
- Free media included
- Multi directional dual outputs
- Easy feed opening
- Bold curved design
- Flexpad remote control
Cons
- Black plastic scratches easily
Read More: Fluval Flex Review
Fluval Spec V is a great starter tank for anyone new to the hobby of fish keeping. This fish tank is considered one of the best shrimp tanks due to its 5 gallon size and unique design. Made with high-quality glass to ensure durability. The stylish curves make it look more like a piece of art than an aquarium, and it will look great on any desk or office.
You can easily set up the aquarium within minutes and start adding your aquatic pets right away. It also includes an efficient filtration system and a 3-stage filter cartridge that helps maintain crystal clear water conditions at all times. Filter media included are foam block, BioMax bio rings, and activated carbon.
The 7500K LED lamps create a wonderful display of your fish and plants, enchanting your tank and thriving your aquatic plants. There is no heater in this aquarium kit. But no need to worry. the necessity of a heater varies with the species of fish that you plan to keep in the tank.
Pros
- Durable etched glass
- Best for shrimps
- All filter media included
- 7500K LED lamps
- Ideal for desks or offices
- Powerful circulation pump
Cons
- Heater and decoration not included
Read More: Fluval Spec V Review
The Marineland Portrait aquarium kit is the best cheap fish tank that offers quality. It has a stylish design and an elegant black frame that will look great in any room. The curved front gives it a unique modern look and the tank is made with high-quality glass to ensure durability.
The Marineland ML90609 aquarium is a 5 gallon tank with a hidden 3 stage filtration system that makes it easy to maintain clean water. The white sunlight LEDs mimic the sun’s underwater effect, and the blue moonlight LEDs create a soothing moonlight glow.
With this beautiful aquarium from Marineland, you’ll have everything you need in one box! It includes everything needed for setting up and maintaining the tank including Bio-Balls, BioMax Filter Cartridge, Rite Size Z Filter cartridge.
Pros
- Easy to assemble
- Daylight and moonlight LED
- Easy feeding door
- Small enough for desks
- Hidden filtration system
Cons
- 5 gallon tank size has limited stock
- Inlets of filter are a little big and can kill shrimps
Read More: Marineland Portrait Review
The Coralife Biocube 32 is an all-inclusive kit that has everything you need to set up a beautiful saltwater or freshwater aquarium in just minutes. It’s a 16 and 32 gallon cube aquarium with a stylish black frame and clear glass that offers a great view of your aquatic pets. It’s also designed with a built-in filtration system that automatically cycles water through three chambers for maximum efficiency and cleanliness.
This aquarium kit has an energy-saving and color-enhancing LED lighting system that creates a natural underwater effect. It also has an adjustable moonlight setting that simulates the natural lunar cycle to promote plant and coral growth. The Coralife Biocube 32 is a great reef aquarium for anyone new to the hobby of fish keeping.
The only con of this large aquarium is that an aquarium stand is a must. Luckily, Coralife Designer Biocube Stand is an aquarium stand designed specifically for this reef tank. By purchasing them together you can reduce the total price and save some money.
Pros
- Sleek modern hood
- LED lighting and temperature control
- Automatic sunrise/sunset, moonrise/moonset functions
- Quiet submersible pump
- Compact filtration system
- Fan to cool the tank
Cons
- A few MODS can make it better
- Require a aquairum stand
Read More: Coralife Biocube 32 Review
The Fluval Edge is a unique small fish tank that has a stylish edgeless design. It’s made with high-quality glass to ensure durability and it has a powerful 6500K LED lighting system that creates shimmering light effects. The sleek black frame gives it a finished look and the filter is located at the top of the tank for easy access.
The filtration system works great in mechanical, chemical, and biological levels and helps maintain clear water conditions. You can also adjust the brightness of the LEDs to create the perfect lighting effect for your aquatic pets and plants.
This modern fish tank is designed for both fresh and saltwater use and it comes in two sizes, 6 and 12 gallons. The bigger one has a different look but the functionality stays the same. So, if you are looking for a modern fish tank that is both stylish and efficient, the Fluval Edge is a great choice.
Pros
- Unique top-sided viewing
- Modern design
- Touch-switch 6500K LED light
- Quiet pump
- Quick access feeding door
- Filter media included
Cons
- Difficult to clean
Read More: Fluval Edge Review
The Marineland Contour 3 Gallon Kit is a great nano aquarium for those who are just starting out in the hobby of fish keeping. This sleek and cheap fish tank comes with all of the features that you need to keep fish happy and healthy
The problem with most fish tanks is that they don’t have the right filtration system. This results in dirty water which means you need to clean your tank more often than necessary. Marineland Contour fish tank kit comes equipped with a hidden three-stage filter that keeps the water clean and healthy for up to two weeks before needing a cleaning cycle of its own!
Plus, it’s has an energy-efficient Rail LED light that casts shimmering white or soft blue light into your small fish tank. This beautiful glass fish tank looks great anywhere in your home without taking up too much space as those bulky plastic tanks do!
Pros
- Cube design
- Great for Bettas
- Rail LED lighting
- Sliding glass canopy
- Quiet pump
- Budget friendly
Cons
- 3 gallon tank size has limited stokcing
- Rite-sized cartridges
Read More: Marineland Contour Review
Keeping and setting up a saltwater aquarium can be very difficult. You need to maintain the right amount of water flow, temperature, and filtration for your fish. The Fluval Evo 13.5 is designed with advanced technology that will make it easy to keep your tank clean without much effort on your part.
This fish tank kit provides you with everything you need in order to have a healthy tank environment for all of your fish and coral. It has an automatic cleaning cycle that keeps the water clean while also providing enough water flow so that the waste doesn’t settle at the bottom of the tank.
If you are on a budget and looking for something cheaper, you can go for Fluval Evo 5 gallon version. With this small size aquarium, you can keep all kinds of colorful marine life like clownfish, gobies, and shrimp without taking up too much space or money.
Pros
- Reef capable LED
- Easy feed opening
- Free media included
- Twin output nozzles
- Seamless integration of submersible heater and protein skimmer
Cons
- A few MODS can make it better
Read More: Fluval Evo 13.5 Review
The Fluval Chi Aquarium is a unique and stylish solution that combines the soothing sounds of flowing water with an elegant design. The unique design creates a calming environment perfect for meditation or just relaxing after a long day at work.
This cube aquarium comes fully equipped with everything you need to set up and maintain your own 5-gallon freshwater community including LED lighting, filtration system, and all necessary accessories.
If you are looking for a modern fish tank that doesn’t take up a lot of space, the Fluval Chi II is a great option. It’s perfect for those who want to keep a few small fish or plants in their home without having to constantly clean the tank.
Pros
- Simple and effective filtration
- Free media included
- Removable cover
- 7600K color temperature light
- Unique water flow
Cons
- 5 gallon tank size has limited stock
- Not great for most live plants
Read More: Fluval Chi Review
Things to Consider When Choosing the Best Fish Tanks
Purchasing a tropical fish tank is not an easy decision. In fact, it will be years before you have to worry about changing or updating your aquarium and if made incorrectly can cause problems and it will end up in the garage.
To complete our buying guide we will include every factor you need to consider before purchasing your home aquarium. Make sure that the choice you made has been thought carefully by taking these factors into consideration.
Tank Size
The tank size you choose when starting out in this hobby will depend on a few factors. The most important of these is the number and type of fish that you want to keep. Different fish species have different tank requirements.
Large aquariums have more stocking options but they require more experience, maintenance, and extra equipment. On the other hand, nano aquariums are very limited and due to their small size is difficult to keep water conditions stable and fish alive.
If you are new to this hobby of fish keeping then it is best to start with a medium aquarium until you gain experience. These tanks make it easier to keep the water conditions stable, don’t require extra equipment and you have a lot of stocking options to choose from.
The best fish tanks size for beginners are:
- 10 gallon fish tank – if you are looking to keep single specie like Betta, Tetras, shrimps, etc together with some plants and aquarium decorations.
- 20 gallon fish tank – if you want to have a variety of fish speicse and aquatic plants.
Glass vs Acrylic Aquariums
There are two types of fish tanks available on the market. Both of these fish tank materials have their own sets of pros and cons.
Glass tanks are heavier and more difficult to move around. However, they are less likely to scratch and are easier to clean. Glass tanks also allow you to see your fish better and since the material is non-porous, it doesn’t discolor over time.
Acrylic tanks are lighter in weight and easier to move around than glass tanks. However, they are more likely to scratch and show fingerprints. Acrylic tanks also deteriorate over time and can become brittle.
Features
There are many features that companies advertise when they want to sell their fish tank but not all of them are essential. We will list some of the essential features that each modern fish tank must have to be considered an aquarium kit:
- Built-in lights are essential in a fish tank, to either show the display or even give life to plants and fish. The best fish tank must come with an integrated LED light. The light must be powerful enough to thrive your aquatic plants. If the aquarium kit has a 6000K LED light or up than you are good to go. It is good to have to aquarium light with daylight/moonlight mode as it gives plants and fish natural environments.
- Filtration system is another essential equipment that must come integrated in your best fish tank. There is no fish that dosn’t need a filter. Eventho you do water changes weekly, fish’s cant life without one. The build-in filter, though basic, may be a more reliable option than purchasing an expensive quality especilly for small aquairums.
- Heater is a essenntial equipment for your home aquarium. Some tanks are equipped with heaters, though it’s not a common feature in most setups. If you are going to keep fish that reqirue warm temperatures such as Bettas, you would need to get a heater to maintain the temperature of the water. The heater is set inside the tank and keeps the water at a steady temperature so your fish can live healthily and comfortably.
Price
When you are looking for the best fish tanks, it is important to consider the price. Some of the more expensive tanks come with extra features that you might not need or want. The most important factor when deciding on the price of the tank should be the size of the tank.
The best cheap fish tanks are those that are affordable and have a good size for the budget. You don’t want to purchase an aquarium that is too small or too large because it will be difficult to keep and maintain respectively.
If you are looking for a quality fish tank that is affordable, the best option would be Marineland Portrait.
How to Decorate Your Best Fish Tank
When decorating your tank, it’s important to keep in mind the size of the tank and the types of fish you plan on keeping. Some fish prefer more hiding places while others enjoy swimming in an open space. You can use a variety of materials to decorate your tank, including plants, rocks, and driftwood.
If you’re looking for some ideas on how to decorate your tank, here are a few tips:
Theme
Whether you want an underwater ocean theme or a garden theme, choosing a specific style can help you decide which decorations to use. Fish tanks look more attractive when they’re decorated with items that match a theme.
4 pack
Easy to clean
Non-toxic
Durable
Two popular aquarium decorations aquarist choose are SpongeBob and Star Wars fish tank decorations. You can also find many other types of decorations to match any theme, including underwater plants, pirate treasure, and fairytale castles.
Be creative! There are endless possibilities when it comes to decorating your tank. Use your imagination and have fun with it!
Plants
Plants are a great way to decorate your tank and they also have some practical benefits. Plants help to oxygenate the water and they provide hiding places for fish.
When selecting plants for your tank, be sure to choose ones that are compatible with the types of fish you plan on keeping and your tank size. Some fish don’t prefer plants in their tank on the other hand plants may grow too large for a small tank.
Easy to care
Carefully packed
Healthy plant
USDA approved
Using live or artificial plants can add some color and interest to the tank. If you are a beginner use plants that are easy to care for. A good example of that is Anubias Congensis. They are popular aquarium plants because they are very hardy and easy to care for.
More experienced aquarists can use Dwarf Baby Tears as a carpet. It will cover the bottom of your tank and provide a place for your fish to hide.
Gravel
Gravel is a good way to add color and a natural look to your fish tank. You can use colored or natural gravel. Just keep in mind that you’ll have to clean the gravel regularly because it will cause water quality problems if it isn’t cleaned out frequently. Also, some fish prefer sand, so be sure to check before using gravel in the best fish tank.
Non-toxic
100% acrylic
Natural substrate
Different colors
Gravel is a cheap option that provides a nice contrast to plants and other decorations. If you are not sure what type of gravel to go with, it’s always a good idea to go with a neutral color. This will help to ensure that your tank will look good with any type of decoration you choose to use.
Benefits of Having a Home Aquarium
Having a home aquarium is one of the best hobbies you can have. Is like bringing the ocean into your house, and filling your daily routine with joy. No matter if you choose a large or small tank, the benefits are the same. The fish movement in the tank has a meditative effect that will relax you after a busy day. Your house will find peace and serenity.
Aquarium pets are not as noisy or messy as other pets. Your anxiety and stress level will be reduced at maximum. No more fighting with neighbors for noises, or waking up to a messy room. Having an aquarium is having positive vibes around you.
Nowadays the negative feeling of stress and anxiety are higher than ever, and having a home aquarium is a perfect choice. You can either choose a planted tank or a small Betta fish tank to enchant you with its colors and movement. Once you try the relaxation that it brings you, you will want to have it at all costs.
FAQs
If you’re wondering if you need a fish tank heater, or which material is best for your fish tank, read on for answers to these and other questions about home aquariums.
Q: Is a glass or plastic fish tank better?
It really depends on your personal preference. Glass tanks are heavier, but they are also more scratch-resistant than plastic tanks.
Plastic tanks may be less prone to scratches, but they can become cloudy over time and are more likely to develop leaks.
Q: What is the easiest fish tank to maintain?
Fluval Flex is the easiest and most convenient tank to maintain due to its self-cleaning and low maintenance features.
It is also easy to set it up with minimal steps and does not require any additional filter. This means that you only need to perform water changes every four weeks.
Q: Do I need a heater for my fish tank?
A heater for your fish tank is a must-have. All types of aquatic life require water that’s at just about the right temperature range.
Coldwater fish won’t need one since they’re used to colder environments in their natural habitats. Tropical or marine species do prefer warmer waters; so make sure you have an aquarium heater set in your fish tank
Q: What is the best fish tank for tropical fish?
It really depends on which species you want to keep. Some tropical fish, such as Bettas, like small tanks while others prefer much larger aquariums kits.
The Fluval Edge is one of the best fish tanks for small tropical and marine species since it comes with a heater, light, and integrated filtration. If you want to keep tropical fish that require a large aquarium you can go for Fluval Flex 32.5 gallons. This tank has a powerful Marine 3.0 LED light which is ideal if you want to grow corals.
