Are you trying to find external filter 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 external filter 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 11 hours of research and did 25 external filter 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 external filter you can buy today
- Amosijoy Canister Filter：AMOSIJOY external aquarium filter runs at 172GPH(650L/H), wattage is 8w, dimension is 12.2’’×7.9’’× 6.1’’. It is recommended for 30 gallon freshwater fish tanks, turtle tank and aquariums.
- Lift-draw Style Vent Valve & Flow Regulating Handle：After power up, drain the air out of the pump and supply water for the pump by lifting the lift-draw style vent valve, and then the filter will enter proper working condition without the need of additional water adding. By controlling the top water flow regulating handle, the water flow could be adjusted from maximum to minimum, even to zero.
- Ultra-quiet Operation: With built-in motor in the lid of the canister filter, the filter runs ultra quietly. Low wattage and high flow without air inside the filter, generates no noise. The sound is ≤ 30db, your family life will not be affected, at the same time achieving water purifying effect.
- Filter Basket: Amosijoy 172GPH external canister filter has one layer of media basket, in which different kinds of filter materials can be placed to purify the water, ensuring the water quality of the living environment for aquatic life. You can add some other filter media depending on your needs. Complimentary bio balls, ceramic bio balls speed up decomposing the fish feces, avoiding frequent change of cotton filter.
- Canister filters for aquariums use high water pressure, from a properly powered pump, to force water through the dense filter media. A pump can draw water from an under-gravel filter, and run it into a canister for double filtration
- 3 media trays capable of handling your choice of filtration media; Comes with an adjustable spray bar. This is a helpful feature if you want to adjust the output flow from the filter
- Convenient self-priming pump that eliminates the need for manual siphoning; Single valve disconnect & priming pump ease routine maintenance
- Provides quiet, efficient filtration for fresh and saltwater aquariums is great for living rooms, offices or bedrooms
- Easy to clean
- Small and convenient
- Good to 15 gallons
- Small, convenient filter fits outside the tank
- Contains biological, chemical, and mechanical filtration
- For turtle tanks, vivariums, box turtle pools, and aquariums up to 15 gallons
- Clear viewing case lets you see when filter media needs replacing
- 1-year warranty
- Good for up to 20 gallon fish tanks
- Dimension: 6.5" L X 6.5" W X 11" H
- Flow rate: 106 GPH (400L/hr.)
- Pump Power: 6W
- Includes filter pads, hoses and all parts to get started
- HW-302 Pro Filtration Kit, Good for up to 75 gallon aquariums
- Flow rate: 265 GPH (1000L/Hr)
- Dimension: 9" L X 9" W X 15.5" H
- Pro Kit Includes Canister Filter, 3 White Filter Pads and 3 Media Baskets
- Includes 1lb of Premium Filter Carbon, 1lb of Ceramic Rings and 1 Set of Bio Balls
- 【UVC Light*2】Equipped with 1 UVC bulb in this filter bucket, and we also have prepared a replacement UVC bulb. It can effectively remove green algae, and effectively keep the water clear. The presence of UV lamps can enhance the filtering effect on the basis of ordinary filtration. Two bulbs will provide extended usage time.
- 【Adjustable Water Volume】In order to adapt to the use of various cylinders, a valve that can adjust the amount of water is specially designed. This way we can determine the amount of water according to the size of the tank and the type of pets in it. This can be used in a fish tank or in a turtle tank.
- 【Up to 30 Gallon】The external filter barrel itself has a power of 5W and a flow rate of 650L/H, which is equivalent to 172GPH. The power cord is 1.65 meters long and can meet the daily use. The whole fit tank can reach 30 gallons.
- 【Media Sponge & Complimentary Bio Balls】We have placed a biological filter sponge and complimentary bio balls in the bucket, which can effectively filter impurities, make the water flow smoother, and make the water quality more suitable for pets.
- 【180 Days Warranty】We are committed to providing our customers with quality products and services, so if you have any questions, please come to contact us and we will do our best to solve the problem. EPA EST NO.: 96998-CHN-1
- EFFICIENT ENERGY SAVING：Canister filter utilizes the latest high-efficiency filtration technology to maintain clear water quality and prevent pollution through water flow and circulation. It supplements the oxygen required for fish growth and simulates a natural ecological environment. Aquarium filter has an excellent oil-absorbing function to effectively remove oil film and avoid insufficient oxygen in the aquarium. Meanwhile, the low power consumption design of the filter helps to save energy.
- 4-STAGE FILTRATION：Turtle tank filter designed with multiple layers of filter boxes, it goes through 4 levels of filtration steps from coarse to fine, thoroughly and easily cleaning fish feces, leftover food, etc. The filter material can be freely added or replaced according to needs, suitable for both beginners and experienced hobbyists. Note: Regular cleaning or replacing of filter material is necessary to ensure filtering effectiveness and water flow stability.
- SILENT & ANTI-DRY BURN：The external aquarium filter features excellent sealing, operating with a noise level as low as 20dB, allowing you to enjoy an excellent viewing experience and a tranquil living space. It is suitable for both freshwater and saltwater aquariums. The filter for fish tank is equipped with waterless protection and dry burn protection features.
- MULTIPLE FLOWS MODES：The fish tank filter can adjust the water flow rate by rotating the button, suitable for tanks ranging from 5~40 gallons, with a Max flow rate of 132GPH (500L/H), Power: 6W. The switchable water outlet provides four different water modes to meet various needs. The length of the expansion tube is adjustable, allowing operation as low as 0.39in/1cm water level, suitable for tanks with different water levels, including shallow tanks and turtle tanks.
- AFTER-SALES SUPPORT：Dimension: L5.5"×W2.9"×H8.6", Weight:3.66lb.【This new technology filters with a skimmer works on a slightly more complex working principle compared to other filters, but it provides cleaner filtration. If you encounter any issues with its operation or have difficulty with installation, please feel free to contact us at any time.】LYPHARD AQUARIUMS offers quality assurance with 30 days return or exchange and 12 months warranty. All parts available for extra purchase.
- 3-STAGE FILTRATION: Water flows through media layers to filter water and ensure a clean aquatic environment.
- FAST SETUP: Water-tight canister lid lifts up for easy removal.
- EASY MAINTENANCE: Valve block for quick release to shut down water flow – separates from housing for quick, spill-free maintenance.
- THREE SIZES AVAILABLE: Comes in 220 GPH, 360 GPH and 360 GPH sizes.
- MARINELAND FILTRATION PRODUCTS: Count on Marineland brand for the most reliable, technically advanced aquariums and accessories on the market.
- 3-STAGE FILTRATION: Water flows through media layers to filter water and ensure a clean aquatic environment.
- VERSATILE: For freshwater and saltwater aquariums.
- FAST SETUP: Water-tight canister lid lifts up for easy removal.
- EASY MAINTENANCE: Valve block for quick release to shut down water flow – separates from housing for quick, spill-free maintenance.
- Filter Foam pads screen out dirt and debris. Fills filter chamber with water for self-priming system startup. Please refer to the 6th main picture for the operation guide, the last main picture for operation precautions. If you find any problems in the process of operating the machine, please feel free to contact us, 24 hours online service for you!
- Efficient Aquarium Canister Filter: Fluval eTEC technology delivers powerful pump performance and ultra-quiet operation; uses same energy as LED light bulb
- Reliable Aquarium Filter: Powerful motor generates constant pumping power and pressure; ensures healthy and clean fish tank for your pet fish
- Silent Fish Tank Filter: Precision-crafted pump runs up to 25% quieter than previously; perfect choice for pet owners looking for a peaceful fish tank enclosure
- Convenient Fluval Filter: The EZ-Lift media baskets with new center handle allow media stack to be removed with just one finger; provides quick access
- Innovation for Fish Keepers: Fluval innovates to foster a sustainable future where aquatic life and humankind can thrive in harmony
- Good for up to 100 gallon fish tanks.Maximum flow rate of 370GPH from built in pump Pump Power: 35W
- 3 media trays capable of handling your choice of filtration media; Comes with an adjustable spray bar. This is a helpful feature if you want to adjust the output flow from the filter
- Convenient self-priming pump that eliminates the need for manual siphoning; Single valve disconnect & priming pump ease routine maintenance
- Built in 9 Watt light for controlling algae spores and promoting clear water
- The three flexible media trays allow you to add other filtration media such as SunSun's activated carbons, ceramic rings or bio-balls to achieve excellent mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration. Compare with similar items
- Two stage filtration of biological and mechanical filtration are integrated in this compact design
- External filter operates quietly to circulate and filter your aquarium water
- Compact design with large filter surface
- Diffuser and spray bar can be utilized for uniform surface movement and additional dissolved oxygen integration
- Includes a self-priming function for simple startup and continued operation
- 【Hang on Filter】This aquarium external filter has two hang on brackets, which can easily install the canister filter on wall of the tank. Compared with other canister filters, hang on filter can effectively save space. Waterfall water flow, which is more beautiful, can also increase the amount of dissolved oxygen in the water.
- 【Specifications】Max Water Flow: 175GPH(650L/H), Power: 8W Dimensions of the barrel :9.6*5.7*4.7in(24.5*14.5*12cm), Dimensions（with spray bar）: 12.8*5.5*12.6in(32.5*14*32cm), Length of power cable: 4.9Ft( 1.5m), Suitable for: 10-60gallon tank( Height>12in/30cm).Both suitable for fresh water and salt water.
- 【Adjustable Water Flow】There are adjustable knobs at the inlet and outlet pipes of the external filter of the aquarium. Turning the flow adjustment knob can adjust the flow of water in and out, and it is easy to get a suitable water flow.
- 【Super Quiet】This fish tank filter has a unique structure, the water pump is installed at the bottom of the filter barrel, and the thickened filter cotton is wrapped around it, which effectively isolates the noise. The vibration of the external filter is also very small, you can hardly hear any sound of the motor, only the sound of water flow. If the spray bar is installed underwater, you will hardly hear any sound.
- 【Perfect Filtration Effect】4 layers of filter cotton, 1pc black biochemical cotton, 1pc yellow density cotton, 1pc blue physical filter cotton, and 1pc white physical filter cotton, effectively filter out impurities in the water. Comes with 0.7lb (0.3kg) ceramic balls，if you need to use these ceramic balls, put them in the space below. A total of 5 layers of filtering, excellent filtering effect.
- Good for up to 75 gallon fish tanks SunSun parts can be applied Flow rate: 264 GPH (1000L/hr) Pump Power: 18W Hose size: 3/4" Max-H: 4.6 feet
- 3 media trays capable of handling your choice of filtration media; Comes with an adjustable spray bar. This is a helpful feature if you want to adjust the output flow from the filter. No Light!!!
- Convenient self-priming pump that eliminates the need for manual siphoning; Single valve disconnect & priming pump ease routine maintenance
- Canister filters for aquariums use high water pressure, from a properly powered pump, to force water through the dense filter media. A pump can draw water from an under-gravel filter, and run it into a canister for double filtration
- The three flexible media trays allow you to add other filtration media such as SunSun's activated carbons, ceramic rings or bio-balls to achieve excellent mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration.
- Good for up to 20 gallon fish tanks
- Dimension: 5.7" L X 5.7" W X 10" H
- Flow rate: 106 GPH (400L/hr.)
- Pump Power: 6W
- Includes filter pads, hoses and all parts to get started
- Aquarium Canister Filtration: Finnex PX-150 offers a 3 stage filtration good for aquariums 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 gallons
- Flow Valve: A flow valve is included to get the precise water flow for those needing to restrict flow on smaller aquariums or for fish fry
- 3 Stage Filtration: Filtration media includes activated carbon floss pad, sponge and ceramic rings for supreme filtration and aquarium support
- Up to 150 Gallons Per Hour max for with the upgraded pump
- Hanging Kit included. Place beneath, on the side, or hang on the back of an aquarium
- Water filter for nano tanks and aquariums up to 30 gallons
- Created for use in both freshwater and saltwater aquariums
- Designed to be easy for new users to prime, customize, and even open
- This filter was also built to be convenient with a compact, space saving design and quiet, anti vibration brushings
- Package includes the Nano 30 external canister filter, removable hose connecting device, spray bar system for greater aeration, mechanical filter sponge, bio ceramic filtration media, and carbon chemical filtration media
- Water filter for nano tanks and aquariums up to 10 gallons
- Created for use in both freshwater and saltwater aquariums
- Designed to be easy for new users to prime, customize, and even open
- This filter was also built to be convenient with a compact, space saving design and quiet, anti vibration brushings
- Package includes the Nano 10 external canister filter, spray bar system for greater aeration, mechanical filter sponge, bio ceramic filtration media, and carbon chemical filtration media
- Canister lids ensures water tight seal.Canister filters for aquarium fish tank canister filters.
- The polishing filter pad acts as a water polisher removing fine debris.
- The bio-filter balls and ceramic rings provide a large, multifaceted surface area for the growth of bio spires.
- Black Diamond Carbon Removes odors, discoloration and water impurities.
- Filter Foam pads screen out dirt and debris.Fills filter chamber with water for self-priming system startup.Please refer to the 6th main picture for the operation guide, the last main picture for operation precautions. If you find any problems in the process of operating the machine, please feel free to contact us, 24 hours online service for you!
- 5 stages with 9W UV, 525GPH (2000Lph)
- Good for up to 150 gallon fish tanks
- Dimension: 12" L x 12" W x 18" H
- Built in 9 watt UV sterilizer for controlling algae spores/bacteria and promoting clear water
- 4 Large media baskets for all your media need
How to choose a good external filter
Does the idea of finding a fantastic external filter 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 external filter. 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 external filter 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 external filter 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 external filter 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 external filter 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 external filter 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 external filter, 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 external filter.
Durability: Durability and reliability are closely related concepts. You will benefit from a strong and long-lasting external filter 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 external filter. 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 external filter 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 external filter.
