Search

*Disclaimer: Tossions earns a commission from qualifying purchases.

The 8 Best aquarium filters of 2025

Are you trying to find aquarium filters among various brands on the market but aren’t sure where to begin? To assist you in finding the right one, we’ve put together a list of the 7 best to help you pick the perfect one!

We investigated and evaluated a number of the top-selling aquarium filters on the market in order to create our list of the best. Making a decision among the many options available is never simple. There are an infinite number of models available, each with a distinct price. And as you’ll find out, the best options aren’t usually the ones you imagine! This comparison is rich and relevant because of the numerous factors that were employed. You will find products featured in this ranking not only based on their pricing but also on their features and other customers reviews. To write this review, we completed 12 hours of research and did 32 aquarium filters tests. You won’t need to pick products at random any more. If you’re unsure of what to look for, browse our list and consult the buying guide!

An overview of our top picks

Table of contents

The best aquarium filters you can buy today

No. 1
Aqueon Replacement Filter Cartridges Medium - 6 pack
  • 🐟 25% MORE ACTIVATED CARBON - Aqueon Replacement Filter Cartridges are dual-sided, featuring dense-floss with over 25% more activated carbon than the leading brands.
  • 🐟 HIGH-QUALITY ACTIVATED CARBON - The cartridge contains high-quality activated carbon that keeps water clean.
  • 🐟 EVEN CARBON DISTRIBUTION - Aqueon’s patented cartridges were designed to ensure the even distribution of activated carbon.
  • 🐟 EASY INSTALLATION - Simply rinse under cold water and easily install using the "FRONT" orientation tab.
  • 🐟 MULTIPLE SIZES AVAILABLE - Aqueon Replacement Cartridges are available in X-Small, Small, Medium, and Large.
  • 🐟 OPTIMAL PERFORMACE - For optimal performance, change approximately every 4 weeks.
  • 🐟 VERSATILE - Fits Aqueon QuietFlow Filter: LED PRO Power Filter Size 10, Power Filter Size 10 and E Internal Power Filter Size 20.
  • 🐟 TRUSTED - Developed by true aquatic hobbyists, Aqueon provides a broad array of aquarium solutions to help maintain healthy, life-sustaining aquatic environments. From inception, Aqueon had one goal in mind: “Doing what is best for the health and well-being of fish and aquatic life.”
No. 2
Tetra Whisper IQ Power Filter, 175 GPH, with Stay Clean Technology, 30 Gallons
  • QUIET AQUARIUM FILTER: The Tetra Whisper IQ Power Filter with Stay Clean technology contains a sound shield for quiet filtration less than 40 dB.
  • SELF PRIMING: Submerged motor starts up with no priming required.
  • CAPACITY: The Tetra Whisper IQ 30 Power Filter works in filters up to 30 gallons (175 GPH).
  • STAY CLEAN TECHNOLOGY: By maintaining healthy pH levels, creates easier maintenance for healthier fish.
  • CARTRIDGE REFILLS: Change cartridges monthly; uses large-sized Tetra Whisper Bio-Bag Filter Cartridges (refills sold separately).
No. 3
Tetra Whisper Bio-Bag Disposable Cartridges, Aquarium Filter Cartridges, 3 Count
  • REPLACEMENT CARBON FILTER: Keeps aquarium water crystal clear – removes odors and discoloration.
  • CATCHES DEBRIS: Dense, dual-sided mesh filters debris and fish waste.
  • FITS TETRA WHISPER WATER FILTERS: Color coded to make it simple to remember which replacement cartridge size to purchase.
  • CONVENIENT: Replacement filter cartridges are fully assembled and ready to use.
  • USAGE: Change monthly or sooner if needed.
  • Conveniently Assembled and Ready-to-Use
  • Like the unassembled, the-Packages are color-coded, making it easier than ever to remember which size to purchase
  • Easy to Assemble, Easy to Replace
  • Please read all label information on delivery
No. 4
MarineLand Penguin 200 Power Filter, 200GPH (PF0200B),Black
  • WITH ROTATING BIO-WHEEL: Patented Bio-Wheel technology provides excellent wet/dry biological filtration.
  • MULTI-STAGE FILTRATION: Delivers mechanical, chemical and biological aquarium filtration to maintain a clean aquatic environment.
  • MARINELAND FILTRATION PRODUCTS: Count on Marineland brand for the most reliable, technically advanced aquariums and accessories on the market.
  • COMPATIBILITY: Use with Marineland Rite-Size Filter Cartridges (see individual filter for sizing recommendations).
  • FIVE SIZES: Available in 75 GPH, 100 GPH, 150 GPH, 200 GPH and 350 GPH sizes.
SaleNo. 5
Tetra Whisper Bio-Bag Filter Cartridges for Aquariums - Unassembled
  • UNASSEMBLED REPLACEMENT CARBON FILTER Keeps aquarium water crystal clear – removes odors and discoloration
  • CATCHES DEBRIS Dense dual-sided mesh filters debris and fish waste
  • FITS TETRA WHISPER WATER FILTERS Color coded to make it simple to remember which replacement cartridge size to purchase
  • CONVENIENT Easy to assemble and easy to replace
  • USAGE Change monthly or sooner if needed
No. 6
Marineland Rite-Size Cartridge C, 6-Pack
  • REPLACEMENT FILTER CARTRIDGES: Fit Marineland Penguin Bio-Wheel Power Filters.
  • EASY TO INSTALL: Pre-assembled cartridges slide easily into place, providing superior mechanical and chemical filtration and making replacement fast, dry and effortless.
  • OPTIMUM WATER-TO-CARBON CONTACT: Patented ribbed backing ensures even distribution of carbon for crystal clear, clean water.
  • COLOR-CODED PACKAGING: Rite-Size packaging makes it simple to choose the right size replacement cartridge for your filter.
  • MARINELAND FILTRATION PRODUCTS: Count on Marineland brand for the most reliable, technically advanced aquariums and accessories on the market.
SaleNo. 7
Tetra Whisper EX 70 Filter For 45 To 70 Gallon aquariums, Silent Multi-Stage Filtration, WHITE
  • WHISPER QUIET The Tetra Whisper EX Power Filter provides silent multi-stage filtration for clear clean water .SIZE This filter fits 45 to 70 gallon aquariums - 240 GPH
  • FAST SETUP Sets up easily right out of the box – no priming required
  • CONTINUOUS FLOW Moves water continuously to prevent debris buildup
  • NO-MESS FILTER CARTRIDGE CHANGES Design minimizes dripping to make cartridge changes easy
  • SIZE This filter fits 45 to 70 gallon aquariums - 240 GPH
No. 8
Tetra Whisper Internal Filter 20 To 40 Gallons, For Aquariums, In-Tank Filtration With Air Pump
  • UNIVERSAL DESIGN: Tetra Whisper 40i Internal Filter is an all-in-one air pump and water filter system.
  • INTERNAL FILTER: Mounts on the inside of your aquarium with clip (included).
  • CATCHES DEBRIS: Dense, dual-sided mesh filters debris and fish waste.
  • AERATES WATER: Air-driven design filters up to 170 GPH while oxygenating water.
  • CONVENIENT DESIGN: Uses large easy to change Bio-Bag cartridges; filter mounts inside aquarium, making it possible to place tank flush against the wall.
SaleNo. 9
MarineLand Penguin PRO Power Filter
1,650 Consomer Reviews
MarineLand Penguin PRO Power Filter
  • With bio-wheel technology: bio-wheel technology provides wet/dry biological filtration.
  • Multi-stage filtration: delivers mechanical, chemical and biological Aquarium filtration to maintain a clean aquatic environment.
  • Compatibility: use with MarineLand rite-size E filter cartridge.
  • Six sizes: 100 (for up to 10 gallons), 125 (for up to 20 gallons), 175 (for up to 30 gallons), 275 (for up to 50 gallons), 375 (for up to 75 gallons), 450 (for up to 90 gallons).
  • Flow control: flow Control up to 450 GPH.
SaleNo. 10
AquaClear 30 Power Filter, Fish Tank Filter for 10- to 30-Gallon Aquariums
  • Aquarium filtration system that offers superior contact time with filter media and energy efficient pump lowers operating costs
  • Quick and easy installation; we recommend that you clean aquarium filter every 2 weeks for maximum operation and efficiency
  • Provides optimal mechanical; chemical; and biological filtration
  • Comes equipped with AquaClear Foam; Activated Carbon Filter and BioMax and Cycle Guard for superior water quality
  • Filtration volume is up to 7 times larger than comparable fish tank filters
No. 11
InfluxBay Submersible Internal Aquarium Filter: Fish Tank Filter with 320GPH Powerful Water Pump for 30-100 Gallon, Adjustable Turtle Filter with 7-Stage Filtration & 4 Aeration Modes & 5 Suction Cups
  • 7-Stage Filtration: InfluxBay submersible internal aquarium filter boasts an advanced 7-stage system. The Bio-balls eliminate toxic ammonia and nitrites, while activated carbon erases odors. Three 25PPI sponges provide mechanical filtration, capturing particles and debris. Two additional black sponges at the bottom further enhance the filtering process. Water undergoes 7-stage filtration, ensuring purity and a healthy environment. Suitable for aquariums, fish tanks, turtle tanks, and coral reef.
  • 4 Aeration Modes: InfluxBay Aquarium Filter equipped with 4 versatile aeration modes for a captivating aquatic experience. The Water pump outlet can be fitted with 4 different accessories: Rainfall Pipe, Oxygenating Nozzle, 19mm and 22mm Wave-Making Nozzle. Rainfall Pipe creates a "rainfall" effect; Oxygenating Nozzle emits many oxygen-rich water bubbles; Wave-Making Nozzles simulate waves. Transform your aquarium with 4 aeration modes, creating an aquatic spectacle. Immerse in nature's beauty.
  • Powerful Aquarium Filter: InfluxBay's Submersible Aquarium Filter is perfect for both freshwater and saltwater tanks. The 20W, 320GPH water pump efficiently filters 1200 liters per hour. The ceramic impeller ensures durability, while the submersible design allows easy disassembly and adjustable water flow. The sealed motor prevents leakage for added safety. This 5-in-1 filter excels in filtration, algae removal, aeration, wave-making, and purification, ideal for aquariums, fish tanks, and ponds.
  • Efficient and Versatile: InfluxBay Aquarium Filter with 5 powerful suction cups, easily attach the filter to any side of your tank, Whether vertically or horizontally, it won't take up space and can create a stunning "fountain" effect with the robust aeration mode. Simple assembly and submersion ensure instant usage, no extra installation needed. After use, effortlessly disassemble for easy cleaning. Upgrade filtration with our dedicated filter media. Dive into an elevated aquatic experience!
  • Customer Centric Excellence: At InfluxBay, we prioritize your satisfaction above all else. Our Aquarium Filter is meticulously crafted with durability and safety in mind, ensuring a product that meets the highest standards. If you're not entirely content with your purchase, our hassle-free replacement policy has you covered. Reach out to us for a new Aquarium Filter, no questions asked. Plus, enjoy round-the-clock access to our professional after-sales service. Elevate your aquatic experience!
No. 12
Aqua-Tech EZ-Change Aquarium Replacement Filter Cartridge EZ #3 - 6 Count
  • EZ-Change number 3 Filter Cartridge fits AQUA-Tech 20-40 and 30-60 Power Filters
  • Contains AQUA-Tech Premium Activated Carbon
  • No messy assembly required
  • Changes in seconds just shake and rinse
  • For best results, change every 2-4 weeks
SaleNo. 13
Marineland Emperor Power Filter Cartridge Rite-Size E, 4 Count, Replacement Cartridge For Aquarium Filtration, E - Purple, 4 Count (Pack of 1)
  • REPLACEMENT FILTER CARTRIDGE: Pack of 4 cartridges fits Marineland Emperor PRO Power Filter 450; also fits original Emperor Power Filters 280 and 400.
  • EASY TO INSTALL: Pre-assembled cartridges slide easily into place, providing mechanical and chemical filtration and making replacement fast, dry and effortless.
  • THREE-STAGE FILTRATION: Mechanically filters water through a pad of double-thick poly fiber.
  • CHEMICALLY filtered through Black Diamond Premium Activated Carbon.
  • BIO-Wheel technology delivers wet/dry biological filtration for nitrifying bacteria growth.
No. 14
16 Pack Filter Cartridge Compatible with Whisper Filters 20i,40i/IQ20,30,45,60/PF20,30,40,60 and ReptoFilter, Large Aquarium Replacement Filter Cartridges for Fish Tank
  • Filter Cartridge Compatible with Whisper Filters: 16pcs Large Replacement Filter Cartridges, Unit Size: 5.1 * 6.7 inches. This aquarium filter cartridge is compatible with Whisper Bio-Bag External Filter PF20, 30, 40, 60/ Whisper External IQ20, 30, 45, 60/Whisper 20i & 40i Internal Filter and ReptoFilter 50 gallons (125 GPH)
  • Four-Stage Filtration: The filter is made of dense dual-sided mesh, Better thickness provides better filtration, Ultra-Activated carbon instead of ordinary carbon and also add processed zeolite, which can effectively filter and absorb impurities in the water to keep the clean water source and provide the healthy growth environment for fish
  • Efficacy of Zeolite: It can adsorb ammonia, heavy metals and other harmful components in the water. Effectively balance the PH value of the water body to achieve a stable water state. Zeolite can improve the fertilization efficiency of aquatic plants, make your aquatic plants grow faster, live more comfortable and more health
  • Quick Installation: Turn off and remove the used cartridge and flush the new cartridge under cool clean water or water of aquarium to remove dust. After rinsing, insert the cartridge into the flushing chamber and make sure the filter cartridge fits completely into the chamber
  • Professional After-sales service: TIPS: We recommend that you replace the filters every 2-4 weeks to maintain water quality. (It depends on the number of fish in fish tank). We are professional in the field of Aquarium Filter Cartridges
No. 15
4 Pack Filter Cartridge for Aqueon Filters, Small Aquarium Fish Tank Replacement Filter Cartridges Compatible with QuietFlow E Internal Power Filter Size 10 and Minibow Aquarium Filters Size 1/2.5/5
  • 🐠【Filter Cartridge Remplacement for Aqueon】4pcs Small Filter Cartridges, Unit Size: 3.66*2.55 inches. This aquarium filter cartridge is compatible with QuietFlow E Internal Power Filter Size 10 and Minibow Aquarium Filters Size 1/2.5/5Gallon.
  • 🐠【Four-Stage Filtration】The filter is made of dense dual-sided mesh, Better thickness provides better filtration, Ultra-Activated carton instead of ordinary carton and also add processed zeolite, which can effectively filter and absorb impurities in the water to keep the clean water source and provide the healthy growth environment for fish.
  • 🐠【Efficacy of Zeolite】It can adsorb ammonia, heavy metals and other harmful components in the water. Effectively balance the PH value of the water body to achieve a stable water state. Zeolite can improve the fertilization efficiency of aquatic plants, make your aquatic plants, nitrifying bacteria grow faster, live more comfortable and more health.
  • 🐠【Quick Installation】Turn off and remove the used cartridge and flush the new cartridge under cool clean water or water of aquarium to remove dust. After rinsing, insert the cartridge into the flushing chamber and make sure the filter cartridge fits completely into the chamber.
  • 🐠【Professional After-Sales Service】TIPS: We recommend that you replace the filters every 2-4 weeks to maintain water quality (It depends on the number of fish in fish tank). We are professional in the field of Aquarium Filter Cartridges, if you have any problems, please feel free to contact us.
SaleNo. 16
Aqueon QuietFlow 10 LED PRO Aquarium Fish Tank Power Filter For Up to 20 Gallon Aquariums
  • LED indicator light flashes when water cannot pass through the cartridge, generally indicating it's time to change the cartridge
  • Self-priming filter pump will auto-start initially or restart if power is interrupted and restored
  • Provides mechanical, chemical, biological and optional, additional specialty pad filtration
  • High flow rates for optimal dissolved oxygen content to promote healthier, more active fish
  • Internal pump design helps dampen noise and eliminate leaks with self-priming feature
  • Do not clean Bioholster when replacing the cartridge
  • Fits fresh or saltwater aquarium size up to 20 gallons
  • Uses One Medium Aqueon Replacement Cartridge and Size 10 Specialty Filter Pads
No. 17
Ying-ti 10Pcs Aquarium Filter Cartridge,Compatible for Aqua-Tech 10-20 Power Filters, Replacement for AquaTech EZ-Change #2 Fish Tank Power Filter Cartridge Replacement
  • Compatible with Aqua-Tech EZ-Change # 2 Aquarium Filter,fit for 10-20 power filters
  • Easy to use,easy to replace
  • Package: 10 pcs 10-20 gallon fish tank filter
SaleNo. 18
Koller Products Replacement Filter Cartridges - Small, 6-Pack
  • REMOVES DEBRIS: Dual-sided poly-fiber floss removes fish waste and other debris.
  • FULLY ASSEMBLED: Ready-to-use cartridge contains premium activated carbon that keeps water clean and fish healthy.
  • ENHANCE FILTRATION: Specially designed to enhance filtration all the while keeping your fish in best health.
  • OPTIMUM FILTRATION: For optimum filter performance replace cartridge monthly or sooner if heavily soiled and reduced water flow.
  • NO GETTING HANDS WET: Easy to install, easy to replace, No Getting Hands Wet!
  • SIZE SMALL: Fits Koller Products and Hawkeye power filters for the following aquariums: AquaTunes 2.5-gallon Aquarium with Sleep Sound Machine (B00HH7UVYO), AquaTunes 3.5-gallon Aquarium with Sleep Sound Machine (B00HH7UW1Q), AquaView 3-gallon (B01M4LNYWS), 4.5-gallon Aquarium (B01JS39E60), 5-gallon Aquarium (B00KIRR8BY), 6-gallon 360 Aquarium (B007R5C6CG), 6.5-gallon Aquarium (B0182CAHWS), 7-gallon Aquarium (B01JS2NNJA), Smart Tank 5-gallon Aquarium, Smart Tank 6.5-gallon Aquarium (B086D9B85Q), and Smart Tank 7-gallon Aquarium (B0865LG56Z).
  • DIMENSIONS: 2.38" L x .75" W x 5" H. Product may ship in white SIOC packaging depending on demographic region.
No. 19
Pawfly 6 Count Activated Carbon Filter Pads for Aqueon QuietFlow LED PRO Aquarium Power Filter Model 10 Mini Fish Tank Activated Carbon Sponge for Water Filtration (Small)
  • Ideal Replacement Filter Pads: Size: 2.7" L x 0.7" W x 0.7" H. ONLY Suitable for Aqueon QuietFlow LED PRO Aquarium Power Filters of Model 10.
  • Fine Carbon Filtration: The filter pads are made of washable fiber and activated carbon with strong absorption. Fully remove pollutants that discolor the water. Effectively deodorize the fish tank to keep water fresh.
  • Further Cleaning: Cooperating with the cartridge which traps debris, filth or wastes, the mini pad further absorbs and filters impurities to remove excess damaging substances.
  • Reliable Material: The soft and foldable sponge won’t block the normal water flow due to the fluffy inner structure. The small amount of dust on its surface is produced during cutting. It does not matter.
  • Easy to Use: Before use, rinse it with cool water to remove the dust (Do not rub it violently to avoid destroying the fiber), then fully put it into the filter chamber. Replace it every 2 to 3 weeks.
SaleNo. 20
Aqueon QuietFlow LED PRO Ammonia Reducer 4 Count Filter Pads for Model 10
  • Pre-cut for easy installation
  • For optimal performance, rinse first and replace approximately every 2 to 3 weeks
  • 4 Count
  • Ammonia Reducing Pads help to remove excess harmful or toxic ammonia while trapping excess waste, food and other organic debris
  • Fits Aqueon QuietFlow LED PRO Aquarium Power Filter 10

How to choose a good aquarium filters

Does the idea of finding a fantastic aquarium filters make you anxious? When it comes to purchasing this product, specifically when deciding which model to select, has your head been spinning between options? You are not alone if that is the case. We are aware of the pressure involved in the purchasing process!

Your presence here indicates that you are interested in aquarium filters. Before choosing which product would be the best for your needs after being inundated with information, locate a reliable source with genuine selections. You can get that information from a variety of sources, including buying guides and rating websites, word-of-mouth recommendations from friends and family, online discussion forums where users can share their own experiences, product reviews that can be found all over the internet, and YouTube channels. You can only get the right product through exhaustive analysis. But you realize that’s not always simple. In order to ease your concerns, we have taken the time to develop a list of the top aquarium filters products available right now. You might be wondering how we came up with the list. How was this buying guide developed?

First, we used our algorithms to gather as much reliable data as we could about these products. To verify all the data gathered, we used both artificial intelligence and a lot of algorithms.
Then, our experts used criteria that are recognized in the business to evaluate them according to their quality to price ratio, allowing us to choose the top aquarium filters on the market right now!

The selection of the goods is not arbitrary. Before creating a list, we take into account a number of factors. Below are some of the criteria discussed:

Brand Value: What happens if you choose a dubious brand just because it appears to be a good deal? So the likelihood of receiving a product with a short shelf life increases. That is due to the fact that well-known brands have a reputation to uphold, while others do not. Top aquarium filters brands strive to provide some distinctive traits that set them apart from the competition. So, hopefully one or more of the items on our list will be perfect for you.

Features: Useful features are all you need, not tons of them. We consider the important aspects and select the top aquarium filters based on those.

Specifications: Numbers always help you measure the quality of a product in a quantitative way. We try to find products with higher specifications, but with the right balance.

Quality: A product’s quality may always be quantified with the aid of numbers. We look for goods with better standards that strike the proper balance. The best quality product that gets highly appreciated and recommended by experienced users.

Customer ratings:  Would it be accurate to suggest that the aquarium filters were used by hundreds of customers before you? Superior ratings indicate that many customers had better service.

Customer Reviews: Like ratings,  provide you with accurate and reliable information about the product from genuine customers. Customer ratings are very important to all of us because they contain accurate and reliable information about the customer service we received from several hundred customers.

Seller Rank: This is very intriguing! Not only do you need a good aquarium filters, you also need a product with rising sales that is trendy. It accomplishes two goals. First, the expanding user base proves the quality of the product. Second, given that number, producers must be able to offer greater quality and after-sales support.

Value: You get what you pay for, they say, so consider the value. Cheap isn’t always good and expensive isn’t always bad. However, that does not imply that spending a lot of money on a product that is flashy but underwhelming is a good idea. Before adding them to the list, we make an effort to evaluate how much value you can get for your money from your aquarium filters.

Durability: Durability and reliability are closely related concepts. You will benefit from a strong and long-lasting aquarium filters for months and years to come.

Product availability: Products come and go, and new ones replace the old ones. Most likely, a few new features and required changes were made. What use is it to use a supposedly good product if the maker no longer supports it? We make an effort to highlight products that are current and offered by one or more trustworthy sellers, if not more.

Negative Reviews: Yes, we do take that into account as well! The goods with the majority of bad reviews are filtered out and disregarded when we choose the best-rated one on the market.

These are the standards by which we selected our aquarium filters. Do we end our process there? Hell no. The most crucial fact about us that you should be aware of is that we regularly update our website with current and pertinent information. We have one more layer of filtration since we place the greatest importance on reader satisfaction. Please let us know if any product included here is incorrect, irrelevant, subpar, or simply out of date. We always value your opinions, and we’ll work hard to make any necessary corrections to our list in response to them.

Why should you believe us?

There are now thousands of possibilities for these products on Amazon, but choosing the best one can be difficult and time-consuming. And what aquarium filters should you purchase in 2022?

This guide is the result of more than 10 years of experience in researching, testing and writing about many topics. Each member of our team is an authority in their area. We read every article we could find online and every consumer review on every retail website for seven hours. Additionally, we discovered a ton of websites that offered helpful resources, including buying tips and thorough information on aquarium filters.