Best Fish Tanks 2022 (Year): A Complete Guide, Reviews And Our Top Picks For Every Budget

There is a unique emotional feeling that come with keeping fish as pet. The serenity they bring as you watch them glide inside the aquarium. Colors can inspire peace and tranquility. The bright colors of the fish and a colorful aquarium can give you the ultimate emotional attachment with your pet.

This is one of the reasons that we look for the best equipment to give our fish the peace and calmness they get in nature only safer because they won’t be eaten by a bigger fish.

Getting the best fish tank is a step closer to making your pet the happiest in the room. However, over the years we have seen the revolution in fish tank technology and designs. It now makes it a bit challenging to pin point the best fish tank that will make your colorful friend feel at home. After a thorough research we compiled this guide for you to help you get the best fish tanks in the market.

Considerations Buying a Fish Tank

There are hundreds of fish species that you can keep at home. That means there are a lot of factors that will be in play when you are buying the best fish tank. With a market that is saturated with fish tanks from across the globe, it can be a hectic task trying to get what will work for your fish.

1. Best Aquarium Tank Brand

Getting products from trusted brands helps you reduce the risk of getting a substandard product. The same ideology applies when you buy a fish tank. The industry has various companies that specialize in making fish tanks from different materials. The top brands have a reputation to maintain, and that is why it is advisable to get your fish tank from a trusted brand.

Companies such as Tetra, Aqueon, and Fluval have been in the industry for decades. They have advanced in technology over the years to suit client preferences. Through trial and error, and recommendations, their products come highly recommended and efficient.

2. Fish Tank Size Calculator

The volume of your tank is one of the crucial factors that you have to consider. The number and type of fish that you intend to keep will help you in your decision making. You also have to consider the tank’s accessories and decorations that you will install. Cleaning a bigger fish tank is more comfortable compared to small compact fish tanks.

Remember that fish can become gloomy and irritable if they feel caged. You might need a five-gallon tank if you are keeping a neon tetra or guppies. However, you will need a 10-gallon tank if you are keeping a clownfish.

3. Fish Tank Construction

The two primary materials used in fish tank construction is Acrylic and glass. However, there are other materials in the market that you might also want to try. Go for something that will blend well with your style and still deliver top functionality. Durability is also another factor you need to keep in mind.

4. Budget Fish Tank

The market comes with various deals and bargains. To start up a successful aquarium, you need a tank plus other accessories. Some tank comes inclusive of the essentials you’ll need. So, when getting the tank, you have to save some money to buy the accessories if the tank doesn’t come with them. When looking for a fish tank, you should factor the maintenance and spare parts cost.

5. The Location

One thing that most people overlook when making a checklist of an ideal fish tank is the location. It is easy to decide on the design, material, and size when you know where the tank will be located. You will need a tank designed from a tough material if you are going to place it in public.

6. The Space Around It

The space around the fish tank will dictate the size of the tank you get. You also need to keep in might that water might spill around the aquarium. So you need to fit your tank and also give it some allowance just in case things get messy.

7. Adding Furniture

Each interior design has its flow. You can get a tank that blends in with your interior décor to maximize on the peace and serenity that comes with having an aquarium at home or in the office.

8. Glass vs Acrylic Aquariums: Which is better

Glass and Acrylic are the major materials used in designing the top-rated aquariums. However, they both have their benefits and shortcomings, and when buying a tank, you have to choose which shortcomings you are comfortable living with. Glass aquariums are mostly cheap, easy to maintain, clear, and scratch-resistant. However, they can be quite heavy, susceptible to break, and its shapes are limited.

On the other hand, acrylic aquariums are a much stronger, lighter, and wide range of shapes. However, they are expensive, turns yellow as they age, and they are porous.

9. Consider the Weight

You need to keep in mind the weight of the tank. Some tanks need special aquarium stands. However, the material of the tank and size will play a big role in determining the weight of the tank.

10. Types of Fish Tanks

There are various types of fish tanks designed to give your pets a natural habitat as much as possible. Getting the right kind of fish tank is vital because it gives your fish a chance to flourish. Here are some types of fish tanks:

• Freshwater fish tanks: It is the most common type of fish tank because it is inexpensive to acquire and maintain. Also, tropical fish are easy to keep and are readily available. Freshwater tanks maintain a constant water temperature of between 78 to 80 degrees. However, if you are using tap water, you need to get a water treatment kit to make the water suitable for your fish. In our experience, freshwater tanks are less demanding compared to other tanks.
• Coldwater fish tanks: One of the widely used fish species in coldwater fish tanks is the goldfish. The water is maintained at room temperature, although it should also be treated if you are using tap water. Most of the domesticated fish species are small, but when you want to diverse to other coldwater fish species such as hillstream loach, zebra danio, or wimple, then it becomes a little pricy.
• Marine aquariums: It’s also known as saltwater aquariums. They can be quite demanding, but most saltwater fish species are colourful, and you have a wide range to choose from. However, when setting up a marine aquarium, you will need to have a proper lighting system because the water can become a bit cloudy. Some saltwater fish species require a special diet which you have to be familiar with before getting.
• Brackish fish tanks: If you are a lover of guppies, black molly, puffer, or bumblebee goby then you might consider setting up a brackish fish tank. The brackish fish tank contains water that is in between saltwater and freshwater. However, you may need to install an aquarium heater depending on the species that you decide to keep.

11. Number of Fish

Another silent factor that you need to consider when shopping for the best fish tank is the number of fish. There is an informal rule that 1-inch fish should be placed in a 2 to 5-gallon tank. With this in mind, then you are able to choose a tank that works for you depending on the fish community size.

How to Set Up a Fish Tank

Different fish tanks have different ways to set them up. It is easy to set up your fish tank once you know which fish species you’ll keep and you have the tank. Here are tips on how to set up a fish tank that can be applied in all fish tanks:

Step 1: Thoroughly wash anything that will go into the aquarium such as rocks, gravel, and other ornaments. Be sure to use warm water without detergent. Detergents can change the aquarium’s pH. When they are all sparkly clean, carefully place them in the tank.

Step 2: Fill up your tank with water until it’s almost one-third full. We advise that you slowly fill the aquarium to avoid displacing your decoration. Then add your plants or anything else before filling up the tank. If you are using tap water, treat it with the relevant water treatment kit to make it safe for your fish.

Step 3: Install the pump, filters, lighting, and heater. Most tanks come with user manuals on how to install the technical stuff. Follow the manual carefully to get the maximum benefit. Make sure that the heater and filters are clean before installation.

Step 4: Check if all the installations are working correctly. Make the necessary adjustments to the pump flow, LED light intensity, and heater.

Step 5: Let the water settle and gain the right temperature. Place the fish while still in the bag to allow the fish to adapt to the tank’s water before releasing it.

Step 6: Clean your aquarium and filters frequently to avoid the build-up of debris and toxins such as ammonia.

Benefits of Keeping Fish Aquarium at Home

• They have a calming effect that promotes peace and serenity at home. As the fish glide in the tank, they give a hypnotic effect.
• It reduces your stress levels and increases productivity. The peace that comes with watching fish glide reduces anxiety and ultimately stress levels. This effect allows you to be more productive.
• They are not messy and noisy as compared to other pets such as cats and dogs. You will never fight with your neighbour because of a noisy pet.
• It gives the children a chance to learn and be responsible. When they feed and clean the aquarium, it provides them with a sense of responsibility.
• It lowers blood pressure and heart rate. Again, this effect is achieved with the peace and calmness that fish movement give.

Best Fish Tank Review

We always have a keen eye when we are selecting the best products to review and even recommend. When selecting the best fish tank we looked at the design, efficiency, user-friendly, durability, safety features, and budget among other factors. Here are some of the best fish tanks that we managed to find after a long trial and error period:

1. GloFish Crescent Aquarium Kit 5 Gallons, Plastic Includes Hidden Blue LED Light and Internal Filter

The GloFish Aquarium Kit Fish Tank falls as the editors pick for a number of reasons. The sleek curved-front aquarium comes with a medium bio-bag and a microfilter. It utilizes both chemical and mechanical filtration system which is calm and quiet. It’s made from acrylic, which is known to be a durable material.

The plastic is seamless throughout, and that reduces the weak points in the tank. The bright LED lights reflect on the clear crescent-shaped cover to mimic the deep blue sea in the middle of the night. It is quite a view when functional.The tank is 5 gallons, and it can be convenient if you are a beginner or have small space that you would prefer the tank fitted. It is also easy to install and maintain.

2. Penn-Plax Curved Corner Glass Aquarium Kit, 10-Gallon

Penn Plax Curved Corner Glass Aquarium Kit is designed with a bent glass to give it the continuity that sea offers. The clear view gives you the serenity that comes with having an aquarium in your home.The cover is made of transparent acrylic sheet to reduce any obstruction. The elimination of any obstruction from the tank gives your fish and décor the centerpiece attention we desire.It comes with an internal cascade filter that engineers both mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration in the tank. It comes with ten bright LED lights to illuminate your aquarium.They are removable, and you can place it wherever you want although in most cases it is installed in the back of the tank.

3. Marina Aquarium LED Fish Tank Kit – 20 gallon

The Marina LED Aquarium Kit come with all you need to start up a successful aquarium in your home. The 20-gallon tank comes fully packed with fish food, water treatment kits, fishnet, and a detailed user manual.What is striking about this fish tank is the filtration system. The filters have advanced technology, and you can easily adjust them to control the flow rate.The LED lights are designed to mimic the daylight.They are highly recommended because they are energy saving. This is just enough to help you see what your fish is up to without disturbing it.One of the plus sides of this tank is its less energy consumption and reduced maintenance.

4. Fluval Flex Aquarium Kit, Black, 15 gal.

Fluval is one of the reputable companies in the fish keeping industry. The Hagen HG Fluval Flex Aquarium is a unique front curved modern tank. The curve gives it an illusion to appear bigger and the sleek edge to fit in contemporary interior décor. It comes with a flexpad remote control that gives you the power to choose the special effects and color blends that you desire.The filtration system works on chemical, biological, and mechanical levels.You can customize the water flow with the help of the tank’s multidirectional dual output. Since the tank is a freshwater aquarium, the ability to control water flow can allow you to keep a wide array of fish species.The lighting is characterized by adjustable 2450 lux and 7500K LED lamps.

5. Fluval 45-Gallon Bow LED Aquarium Starter Kit

Sometimes it is just hectic if you have to buy piece by piece to have a functioning aquarium. Fluval Premium Front Aquarium comes with all the essentials you need to start and keep your aquarium running.It includes a water treatment kit, net, thermometer, food which is rich in protein, and a care guide. The design is one of the sleekest with a mirror technology that camouflages perfectly with the environment.The freshwater aquarium comes with an amazing C4 power filter. The five-stage filtration system ensures that all debris and dirt does not contaminate your aquarium. The bow front glass gives this tank a unique and elegant look.The well-functioning submersible M heater is a refreshing addition to the tank. The low profile LED lights gives the right amount of lighting to illuminate your tank.

Best Fish Tanks Under 5 Gallons

Most people tend to think that fish tanks under 5 gallons are too small. You will be amazed with the wide range of fish species that will be happy and flourish in the 3 or 2.5 gallon fish tank.The tanks are small and occupy less space. However, they can still have the same effect that large fish tanks have.Since the tanks are small, you have to be extra careful of the fish tank that you get.Here are some of the best fish tanks under 5 gallons that you might find functional and effective.

1. Tetra LED Cube Shaped 3 Gallon Aquarium with Pedestal Base

This small fish tank is designed to give your fish a happy environment. Its design is meant for mostly small betta, goldfish, and tropical fish. The transparent glass of the aquarium gives you a panoramic view of your aquatic friends.The pedestal base is a unique feature that adds style and functionality. This 3-gallon fish tank comes with a Tetra 3i filter. The filter is gentle, which is a plus since the tank is small.The LED lights provide sufficient lighting for you to keep an eye on your underwater world. It is not too bright to disturb your fish.The canopy is made of plastic and features a small feeding hole, so you don’t have to remove the entire lid to feed your fish.

2. Marineland Contour 3 Aquarium Kit 3 Gallons, Rounded Glass Corners, Includes LED Lighting

MarineLand is one of the reputable brands that produce a wide array of fish tank sizes. The MarineLand Contour Glass Aquarium Kit is one of the under 5-gallon tanks that impressed us.The aquarium is given a stylish look with the curved edges that remove any obstruction. It features a 3-stage filtration system that takes care of the mechanical, chemical and biological waste.The kit includes a Marineland Bio-Foam and Rite-SizeTM Z Cartridge to give your fish a healthy, clean environment.The blue and white LED lights are designed to mimic the natural habitat. The light frequency of the LED lights are fair and do not disturb the fish.Another feature that we found useful is the adjustable flow filter pump. The sliding canopy gives you easy access to the tank during cleaning and feeding sessions.

Pros:

• It comes with a 3-way switch.
• The glass casing is stylish and hard to scratch.
• It has LED lights that mimic the natural habitat.
• It is easy to assemble, clean, and maintain.

Cons:

• The tank is not suitable for bettas.

3. Fluval SPEC Freshwater Aquarium Kit, Aquarium with LED Lighting and 3-Stage Filtration

It is not a walk in the park, finding a nano tank that brings both style and functionality home. You need something that will be easy to clean and maintain because of its susceptibleness to contamination.The Fluval Spec III Aquarium Kit, 2.6-Gallon has outstanding features. The aquarium is designed with etched-glass aquarium with aluminium trim. It has two chambers, and one is used for the installation of the filtration system and the pump. This gives you easy access when you want to clean or replace the parts. The filtration system features a 3-stage filtration system, and an adjustable output nozzle characterizes the pump.The overhanging light illuminates the aquarium and gives the fish just enough light frequency for them to glide by happy and play. The light comprises of 31 powerful LED lamps. The simplicity of the tank set up is one of the features that make it stand out. Generally, the tank is designed to add an extra touch of nature in your office or home

Pros

• It has an excellent architectural design to blend in anywhere.
• The kit comes with a foam block, activated carbon and BioMax bio rings.
• The overhead LED lighting is a nice touch.
• It is easy to set up and maintain.

Cons

• The flow might be too intense for bettas.

Best 5 Gallon Fish Tanks

You don’t need to get a big tank if your fish can fit in a smaller aquarium. Fish for 5-gallon tank can be almost invisible when placed alone in a big container. Here are 5-gallon tanks that will give your fish the perfect playground and still give you the satisfaction you get from seeing your fish gliding around the tank.

1. MarineLand ML90609 Portrait Aquarium Kit, 5-Gallon W/Hidden Filter

The MarineLand aquariums have always been characterized by stylish contemporary design.

The MarineLand 5 Gallon Portrait Glass LED Aquarium Kit corners are curved to give you an unobstructed view of your fish gliding in the aquariumIt comes with a three-stage filtration system which is an advantage when you have a 5-gallon tank.The flow filter pump is adjustable so you can provide the right water flow for your fish.The tank has a sliding glass canopy which gives you easy access to the tank when you want to clean.One of the features that we were impressed with is the blue and white LED lights to mimic the day and night moonlight.The LED are installed in a hinged system also to give you easy access to the tank.

Pros

• LED lights that mimic the natural habitat of the fish.
• Adjustable flow filter pump.
• It has smooth curved edges for a perfect view.
• Sleek modern design.
• Three-stage filtration system.

Cons

• You have to remove the top glass canopy to feed the fish.
• The filters are hard to clean because of the narrow space.

2. Marina LED Aquarium Kit

We had to put the Marina LED Aquarium Kit on the list because it can be quite ideal for a beginner aquarist. This 5-gallon fish tank comes with a water treatment kit, Nutrafin Aqua Plus Water Conditioner, to help you make tap water safe for your aqua buddies.

You also get fish food rich in protein as part of the package. The silicon sealed edges give this tank a stylish look.Now to the technical stuff. The tank’s filtration system is characterized by Marina’s Slim S20 clip-on aquarium. This filtration system is known to be efficient because it’s not messy and you get to remove all toxins from your aquarium’s water.

The filters use quick-change cartridges. The lighting system is powered by a long-lasting LED lights that mimic the daylight.

Pros

• It has all the necessities to kick start an aquarium.
• The filtration system is silent.
• The quick-change cartridges make it easier to clean and replace.
• The tank’s glass is sturdy and stylish.
• Long-lasting LED lights.

Cons

• The LED lights are fixed on the canopy.
• It does not come with an aquarium heater.

3. Fluval Spec V Aquarium Kit

The Fluval Spec V Aquarium Kit narrow sleek design can easily make it the focal point of your room, and yet its functionality is impressive. This nano tank has all the big features that you need in your aquarium.

It is powered by 37 LED lights that hang over the canopy to illuminate your aquascape and fish. It has a powerful 3-stage filtration system to take care of the mechanical, biological and chemical aspects.The circulation pump has an adjustable output nozzle to help you regulate the flow. Both the pump and filtration system are installed in a different chamber.This is an impressive aspect since it gives you more room in the aquarium. The tank is suitable for a wide variety of fish types. A factor that is not common when buying a 5-gallon aquarium

Pros

• It has a powerful 3-stage filtration system.
• Adjustable output nozzle to regulate flow.
• The LED lights provide ample lighting for your fish.
• It is easy to clean and maintain.
• It has a separate chamber for the pump and filtration system.

Cons

• It does not come with a heater. You need to buy one separately if you plan on keeping tropical fish.

Best 30 Gallon Fish Tank

Having a personal touch to your aquarium really makes you own it. A 30-gallon fish tank gives you a lot of space to play around when decorating it without consuming space for your fish to play around.

Most people wonder how many fish in a 30-gallon tank they can keep. There is no specific answer because different fish species behave differently and the sizes are also different.However, there is a general rule of 1 inch fish per 2 to 5 gallons of water. Here are best 30 gallon fish tank:

1. SeaClear Acrylic Aquarium Combo Set

If you are looking for a lightweight tank that can accommodate both salt and freshwater pets, then you might consider looking at the SeaClear Acrylic Aquarium Combo Set.

This 30-gallon water tank is made of acrylic material which is much lighter compared to glass and has better visual. See Clear fish tank comes with an electrical 24″ light fixture and a reflector.

Its smooth edges give you an unobstructed view of your underwater world. There is a big opening that you can use to access the tank during cleaning and feeding sessions.

The safety of the material is what makes it stand out. You can easily place it in the children’s room and not worry about leakage or broken pieces.

However, depending on the type of fish that you keep, you might need to buy other accessories to complement the tank.

Pros

• It is made of lightweight and robust material.
• It has enhanced clarity.
• Suitable for both saltwater and freshwater aquariums.
• It is safe around kids and other pets.

Cons

• It does not come with all the necessities to start up an aquarium.
• The fluorescent bulb is unsatisfactory.

2. Coralife LED Biocube Aquarium LED

A 30-gallon fish tank starter kit should come with all the goodies you need to make your aquatic life comfortable and happy. The Coralife LED Biocube Aquarium LED has taken the aquarium LED technology on a new level. The LED are integrated with a 24-hour timer to mimic the day’s lighting.

The lighting system has three stages which are bright white LED, blue LED, and colour enhancing LED. Another important aspect is the filtration system. This tank comes with a built-in filtration system that takes care of the mechanical, chemical and biological waste.

You can control water flow in the aquarium using the adjustable return nozzle of the dual intake submersible pump. One thing to take note is that the spare parts for this tank are easy to find and replace.

Pros

• LED technology with multiple settings.
• It comes with a quiet submersible pump.
• Easy to find and replace spare parts.
• It has an elegant contemporary design.

Cons

• The fan is relatively noisy.

Best 55 Gallon Fish Tank

55 gallon fish tanks are the best choice if you are looking to create your own fish empire in your home or office. The vast space gives you ample working area to make your decorations and introduce your buddies home away from home. Here is the best 55 gallon fish tank:

1. Tetra 55 Gallon Aquarium Kit With Fish Tank, Fish Net, Fish Food, Filter, Heater, Water Conditioners

Fish for 55-gallon tank can be any species you want except maybe for whales. Space is enough that you might be tempted to scuba dive. The Tetra 55 Gallon Aquarium Kit comes with most of the essentials that you will need to realize your aquarist dreams.

It comes with a digital thermometer to help you maintain constant water temperature. The access to this scratch-resistant tank is gained through the hinged hood.

It comes with a hidden 3-stage filtration system and a vibrant LED fitting to show off your aquatic beauty. We were impressed by the ease of set up and use.

It can be an excellent tank for beginner aquarist who want to go all out.

Pros

• It is easy to clean.
• It is made of scratch-resistant glass.
• It has vibrant LED lights that produce the right frequency for plants and fish.
• The kit comes with all the essentials.

Cons

• The filter’s motor is noisy.

How To Choose The Best 55 Gallon Fish Tank Stand

Best Fish Tanks on the Market for Betta Fish

Setting up a planted betta tank is easy with the right tank. Most people like bettas because they are colourful and add a unique touch to the aquarium. However, what most beginner aquarists may not know is that bettas flourish well in large tanks as compared to enclosed small ones.Although, if you have a small tank it’s still okay but you have to reduce your fish colony. Finding a big functional and stylish tank can be a slippery situation but we got you.Here are the best fish tanks for bettas that brings you functionality and style:

1. Tetra Crescent Acrylic Aquarium Kit, Energy Efficient LEDs

All fishkeeping enthusiast have a check especially when they are keeping a specific species of fish. For betta loves they will have a checklist for things like betta heater, betta tank filter, betta bulbs, betta water conditioner, and betta fish décor.

All these in the pursuit to give there fish a natural habitat. The Tetra Crescent Acrylic Aquarium Kit is designed with robust acrylic material.

It seamless corner curves are designed to provide you with a perfect view of your fish colony. The tank is easy to use as all you have to do, is set up your preferred décor and the filter.

The filter is a three-stage filtration system, and it’s silent as the deep sea. The hidden bright white LED lights provide the right light frequency for colourful bettas.

However, you have to separately buy a heater to maintain the desirable betta water temperature.

Pros

• It has a sleek contemporary design.
• The filtration system works well.
• A mechanical pump is included in the kit.
• It is easy to set up and maintain.

Cons

• You have to buy the aquarium heater separately.

2. Penn Plax Curved Corner Glass Aquarium Kit

The Penn Plax Curved Corner Glass Aquarium Kit is designed to give you a 360 degrees panoramic view. The glass designed tank comes with an internal cascade filter to keep your betta water clear of any debris and toxins.

It is designed using three-piece construction technology to give it extended longevity. The hood of the tank is made from plastic and hinged to the tank. This feature gives you an easy time to access the tank during maintenance and feeding.

One feature that stands out is the betta fish tank light. The LED bulbs of this tank are designed to provide sufficient light to illuminate your aquarium and not interfere with your betta’s peace.

The bulbs are flexible, and you can fix it at your desired point at the back of the tank.

Pros:

• It has a 360 panoramic view.
• The internal cascade filter cleans up the aquarium.
• It is easy to setup.
• The three-piece construction technology promotes durability.

Cons:

• You need to buy a heater for your bettas.

3. Fluval Spec V Aquarium Kit, 5-Gallon, Black

The Fluval Spec V Aquarium Kit is designed to fit seamlessly with your office and home contemporary décor. This Fluval, 5-gallon tank, comes with the best filter for betta. The powerful 3-stage filtration system and a pump that comes with adjustable output nozzle are installed in a different chamber.

This design gives your fish more room to play without worrying that they might be trapped in the filtration system. The Fluval lights are designed in a stylish hanging position.

The LED lights include 37 vibrant bulbs to give you enough lighting for your pets, plants, and to show off (we all like to show off).

Although it does not come with a heater, Fluval compatible accessories are easy to find.

Pros

• It has an amazingly sleek design.
• The LED lights provide enough lighting.
• The filters and pump are installed in a separate chamber.
• It is lightweight.

Cons

• The LED lights are not reliable.

Wrapping Up

There is a wide variety of fish tanks in the market that are designed to serve various purposes. With a detailed guide like this and a few additional research on the side you can get a perfect tank that will please you and give your pets the home they need.Write down your checklist and incorporate it with our guide to give it a personal touch. All the best fishkeeping enthusiast. Did you find the post helpful? If yes, feel free to share this post with your friends and family.Leave your thoughts as well in the comment section below, and we will be very pleased to entertain you! Happy reading everyone!

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