Of the many different types of filters available for aquariums, canister filters offer the best all-around performance. These filters work by drawing water out of the aquarium, running it through a series of filter media in an external canister, and then returning it to the tank.
When it comes to selecting the best canister filter for your aquarium, there are many factors to consider, including the size of your tank, the type of aquatic pets you have, and your personal preferences and budget.
Today, we will explore some of the best canister filters available on the market today, taking into account their features, performance, and overall value for money. I will also let you in on the best canister filter brand out there. Let’s dive right in.
How Does An Aquarium Canister Filter Work?
An aquarium canister filter is a type of filtration system that uses an external container to filter the water in an aquarium.
The canister filter consists of a sealed container that is placed outside of the aquarium. The container contains a motor and a series of tubes and hoses that connect to the aquarium. Water is drawn out of the aquarium by the motor and passes through the tubes and hoses to the canister filter.
Inside the canister filter, the water passes through a series of filter media. These filter media can include mechanical filters, such as sponges or floss, which remove large particles and debris from the water. Biological filters, such as ceramic rings or bio-balls, provide a surface for beneficial bacteria to grow and help break down harmful toxins in the water.
Some canister filters may also include chemical filters, such as activated carbon, which help to remove odours, discolouration, and other contaminants from the water. Once the water has passed through the filter media, it is returned to the aquarium.
Why Is A Canister Filter One Of The Best Types Of Aquarium Filters
Canister filters are often considered one of the best types of aquarium filters and here are some of the reasons why:
- Efficient Filtration: Canister filters provide efficient filtration by using a series of filter media to remove debris, harmful toxins, and other contaminants from the water. They are designed to provide a high flow rate, which means that they can filter a large volume of water quickly, ensuring that the water in your aquarium remains clean and healthy.
- Versatility: Canister filters are versatile and can be used in a variety of aquarium setups, including freshwater and saltwater aquariums, and tanks with a wide range of sizes. They can also be used in different types of aquariums, including planted tanks, community tanks, and tanks with sensitive aquatic species.
- Customization: Canister filters offer a high level of customization, allowing you to choose the filter media that best suits your aquarium’s needs. This includes mechanical filters to remove debris and waste, biological filters to support the growth of beneficial bacteria, and chemical filters to remove odours, discolouration, and other contaminants.
- Easy Maintenance: Canister filters are designed for easy maintenance, with most models featuring a removable canister that can be quickly and easily cleaned or replaced. This makes them a popular choice for aquarium enthusiasts who want an efficient filtration system without the hassle of constant maintenance.
- Quiet Operation: Canister filters are typically very quiet, making them a great choice for those who want an effective filtration system that doesn’t produce a lot of noise.
Tips To Choose The Best Canister Filter For Your Aquarium
Choosing the best canister filter for your aquarium can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available on the market. Here are some tips to help you choose the best canister filter for your aquarium:
- Aquarium Size: Choose a canister filter that is appropriate for the size of your aquarium. Most canister filters are rated for a specific aquarium size, so be sure to choose one that is rated for the size of your tank.
- Flow Rate: Consider the flow rate of the canister filter. A higher flow rate is ideal for larger aquariums or those with a lot of fish or plants, while a lower flow rate may be more suitable for smaller or more delicate aquariums.
- Filtration Media: The types of filtration media that the canister filter can accommodate is another factor that should be looked at. Choose a filter that can accommodate both mechanical and biological filtration media, such as sponges, floss, ceramic rings, and bio-balls.
- Maintenance: Look for a filter that is easy to disassemble and clean, with easy access to the filter media.
- Noise Level: Choose a filter that operates quietly, especially if the aquarium is in a room where noise could be a concern.
- Brand and Price: Choose a reputable brand with good reviews and a history of quality products. Be willing to invest in a quality canister filter that will last a long time and provide effective filtration for your aquarium.
By considering these factors, you can choose the canister filter that offers the best returns on your investment.
Why OASE Is The Best Canister Filter Brand
Having a reliable, efficient, and versatile filter is half the battle and over my many years of keeping aquariums, OASE is a brand that has served me really well. It is a well-known brand in the aquarium industry, and they are known for making some of the best canister filters on the market. Here are some reasons why OASE makes the best canister filters:
- Advanced Filtration Technology: OASE canister filters feature advanced filtration technology that provides efficient and thorough filtration. Their filters use multiple stages of filtration media, including mechanical, biological, and chemical, to remove debris, waste, and harmful toxins from the aquarium water in the most effective manner.
- Inbuilt Heater: Another great feature of OASE canister filters is that they often come with an inbuilt heater. This is a convenient and space-saving feature that can help to maintain a consistent water temperature in your aquarium. The inbuilt heater is typically adjustable, allowing you to set the temperature to your desired level, and is usually located in the canister filter’s main body, where the water is already flowing through. This means that the heated water is distributed evenly throughout the aquarium, ensuring that all parts of the tank are heated equally.
- Quiet and Efficient Operation: OASE canister filters are designed for quiet and efficient operation. They use high-quality motors and impellers to provide a high flow rate, while also operating quietly, so they won’t disrupt the peaceful environment of your aquarium.
- Easy to Use and Maintain: OASE canister filters are also easy to use and maintain. They feature simple and intuitive controls, and the filter media is easy to access and replace.
- Durability and Longevity: OASE canister filters are built to last. They are made with high-quality materials and are designed to withstand the rigors of continuous use. OASE also offers a great warranty on their filters, ensuring that you are protected in case of any issues.
- Versatility: OASE canister filters are versatile and can be used in a variety of aquarium setups, including freshwater and saltwater aquariums, and tanks of different sizes. They are also suitable for use with a variety of aquatic species, including fish, plants, and invertebrates.
The Top 10 Best Canister Filters For Aquariums
Based on personal experience, customer reviews, expert opinions, and product features, these are the best canister filters for freshwater aquariums, one from each of the top brands.
- OASE BioMaster Thermo:
The OASE BioMaster Thermo is a high-quality canister filter designed for aquariums ranging from 113 to 946 litres (30 to 250 gallons) in size. One of the standout features of this filter is its sophisticated filtration technology, which includes a pre-filter chamber, mechanical, biological, and chemical filtration stages, as well as a built-in heater.
The pre-filter chamber captures larger particles before they can enter the main filter media, which helps to reduce clogging and extend the life of the filter. The mechanical filtration stage uses fine foam pads to capture smaller particles and debris, while the biological stage features a Hel-X biomedia that promotes beneficial bacteria growth and provides effective biological filtration.
The chemical filtration stage consists of activated carbon, which helps to remove impurities and odours from the water. The built-in heater is adjustable and can maintain a temperature between 18-30°C (65-86°F). The heater is located inside the filter housing, which saves space in your aquarium and makes it easy to hide the equipment.
Another feature that makes the OASE BioMaster Thermo stand out is its quiet operation. The filter motor is designed to be nearly silent, which prevents it from disrupting your aquarium’s peaceful environment.
- Fluval FX6:
The Fluval FX6 is a powerful and reliable canister filter that is designed for large aquariums up to 1500 litres (400 gallons). It is known for its multi-stage filtration system, self-priming feature, and energy-efficient design.
The highlight of the Fluval FX6 is its multi-stage filtration system. It uses a combination of mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration to keep the water in your aquarium clean and clear. The mechanical stage includes foam pads that capture large debris and particles, while the chemical stage uses activated carbon to remove impurities and odours. The biological stage features Bio-Foam media and BioMax media, which promote the growth of beneficial bacteria that helps to break down waste and maintain a healthy ecosystem.
Another feature that makes the Fluval FX6 popular among aquarium enthusiasts is its self-priming feature. This means that you don’t have to manually siphon water to start the filter. Instead, the filter can automatically start itself, which makes setup and maintenance a breeze.
The Fluval FX6 is also designed to be energy efficient. It features a smart pump that can detect the amount of water in the filter and adjust the flow rate accordingly, which helps to conserve energy and reduce your electricity bill.
- Eheim Classic External Canister Filter:
The Eheim Classic External Canister Filter is another high-quality and affordable canister filter that is designed for aquariums up to 567 litres (150 gallons) in size. It is known for its simple and reliable design, as well as its quiet operation.
It uses a single chamber to provide mechanical, biological, and chemical filtration. The mechanical stage includes a coarse and fine filter pad, which captures debris and particles of different sizes. The biological stage features Eheim’s patented Bio-Filter media, which provides a large surface area for beneficial bacteria to grow and remove harmful toxins from the water. The chemical stage consists of activated carbon, which helps to remove impurities and odours from the water.
The Eheim Classic External Canister Filter is also known for its quiet operation. The filter motor is designed to be almost silent.
Its easy-to-use design is a huge plus point. It features simple valves that make it easy to disconnect and clean the filter media, and the filter can be easily primed as a result.
- SunSun HW-304B:
The SunSun HW-304B is a powerful and affordable canister filter that is designed for aquariums up to 567 litres (150 gallons) in size. It is known for its multi-stage filtration system, high flow rate, and value for money.
It too uses a combination of mechanical, biological, and chemical filtration to keep the water in your aquarium clean and clear. The mechanical stage includes multiple filter baskets that can be filled with different types of filter media, such as foam pads and bio-balls. The biological stage features ceramic rings. The chemical stage consists of activated carbon.
The SunSun HW-304B is also known for its high flow rate. It can circulate up to 2000 litres (525 gallons) of water per hour making it a great option for tanks with a high bio-load.
Another feature that makes the SunSun HW-304B highly sought-after is its value for money. It is one of the most affordable canister filters on the market, but it still provides excellent filtration performance and reliability.
- Penn Plax Cascade Canister Aquarium Filter:
The Penn Plax Cascade Canister Aquarium Filter is a reliable and efficient canister filter that is designed for aquariums up to 750 litres (200 gallons) in size. It is known for its multi-stage filtration system, easy maintenance, and quiet operation.
As is the norm, It too uses a combination of mechanical, biological, and chemical filtration to keep the water in your aquarium clean and clear. The mechanical stage includes multiple filter baskets that can be filled with different types of filter media, such as foam pads and bio-floss. The biological stage features bio-sponge while the chemical stage consists of activated carbon.
The Penn Plax Cascade Canister Aquarium Filter is also very easy to maintain. It features a push-button primer that makes it convenient to start the filter after cleaning, and the filter baskets can be easily removed and cleaned without having to take the entire filter apart. This filter is also known for its quiet operation.
- Hydor Professional External Canister Filter:
The Hydor Professional External Canister Filter is a high-performance canister filter that is designed for aquariums up to 567 litres (150 gallons) in size. It’s positives include multi-stage filtration system, energy efficiency, and quiet operation.
The Hydor Professional External Canister Filter is very energy efficiency. It features a motor that is designed to consume less energy than other filters of its size, which means it can help you save money on your electricity bill over time.
Another feature that makes the Hydor Professional External Canister Filter popular really standout is how quiet it can be. It features a special motor design and soundproofing materials that help to reduce noise levels, making it one of the quietest canister filters on the market.
- API Filstar XP-L Canister Filter:
The API Filstar XP-L Canister Filter is liked by aquarium hobbyists because they offer efficient mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration in a compact and easy-to-maintain package.
The Filstar XP-L is a larger version of the Filstar XP canister filter series, designed for aquariums up to 662 litres (175 gallons) in size. It features a self-priming design, meaning it can start itself after being shut off or unplugged. The filter also has a flow control valve that allows you to adjust the flow rate of the water going through the filter.
The Filstar XP-L has a multi-stage filtration system that includes mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration.
- Marineland Magniflow Canister Filter:
The Marineland Magniflow Canister Filter’s USP is efficient mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration in a compact package.
The Magniflow Canister Filter is available in three sizes: the Magniflow 160 for aquariums up to 113 litres (30 gallons), the Magniflow 220 for aquariums up to 208 litres (55 gallons), and the Magniflow 360 for aquariums up to 378 litres (100 gallons). It also features a self-priming design and a flow control valve that allows you to adjust the flow rate of the water going through the filter.
The Magniflow Canister Filter also has a multi-stage filtration system that includes mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration.
- AquaTop CF Series Canister Filter:
The AquaTop CF Series Canister Filter has many fans because of its efficient mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration in a durable and relatively affordable package.
The CF Series Canister Filter is available in several sizes, ranging from the CF400 for aquariums up to 473 litres (125 gallons), to the CF500UV for aquariums up to 662 litres (175 gallons). It features a self-priming design and a flow control valve
The CF Series Canister Filter also has a multi-stage filtration system that includes mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration.
One unique feature of the AquaTop CF Series Canister Filter is the built-in UV sterilizer. The UV sterilizer uses ultraviolet light to kill bacteria and other microorganisms in the water, which can be a handy feature.
- Zoo Med Turtle Clean 511 Canister Filter:
Zoo Med Turtle Clean 511 Canister Filter is a type of filter designed specifically for turtle tanks. It is a powerful external filter that provides mechanical, biological, and chemical filtration for your turtle’s aquarium.
The Turtle Clean 511 Canister Filter is designed to be easy to set up and use. It features a self-priming pump that makes it easy to get started, and its compact size allows it to fit easily under most turtle tanks.
This filter uses a three-stage filtration system. The Turtle Clean 511 Canister Filter is suitable for tanks up to 227 litres (60 gallons) in size, making it an excellent choice for most turtle enthusiasts. It is also energy efficient, with a low wattage motor that uses less electricity than other comparable filters.
Why I Use The Same Brand Of Filter For All My Aquariums
For many years now, all the canister filters I have been using are from OASE. While they make excellent filters, using the same brand of filter for all your aquariums can have several other benefits.
Firstly, you can easily swap out parts like impellers, tubing, and filter media if needed. This can save you time and money as you don’t need to buy different replacement parts for different filters. Plus, you already know how to install and maintain the filter, so there’s no need to learn a new system.
Secondly, having plenty of spare parts on hand can be convenient. Filters can sometimes break down or malfunction, and having a spare part readily available can help you quickly fix the issue without needing to run out to the store or order online and wait for delivery. This can be particularly important if you have a heavily stocked or sensitive aquarium where water quality can quickly decline if the filter is not functioning properly.
Lastly, using the same brand of filter across all your aquariums can help ensure consistency in water quality and maintenance. Different types or brands of filters may have different flow rates, filtration capabilities, and maintenance requirements, which can make it harder to maintain consistency across multiple aquariums. By using the same filter, you can more easily maintain the same water quality and maintenance routines across all your aquariums.
A Few Tips On Getting The Most Out Of Your Canister Filters
To get the most out of your canister filter, here are a few tips:
- Use stainless steel lily pipes: Lily pipes are used to distribute the outflow from your canister filter into your aquarium. Stainless steel lily pipes are a great option, as they are more durable than glass or plastic, and are less likely to break. They are also easier to clean, as they don’t scratch as easily as glass. Glass pipes do look better but you have to be extra careful around them.
- Consider running a skimmer in the lily pipe: A skimmer is a device that removes organic waste from the water column before it has a chance to break down and contribute to nutrient levels in the tank. By running a skimmer in the lily pipe, you can remove this waste before it has a chance to settle on the substrate or in the filter media. This can help keep your aquarium water clean and clear and reduce the frequency of water changes. I use this method both because it is very efficient, and it is easy to carry out maintenance work on the skimmer.
- Use high-quality filter media: The filter media you use in your canister filter can have a big impact on the quality of your aquarium water. Choose high-quality filter media that is appropriate for your tank’s needs, such as biological media for a heavily stocked tank or chemical media for a tank with high nutrient levels.
Conclusion
Choosing the right canister filter for your aquarium can go a long way in making the hobby more enjoyable. The best canister filters offer efficient mechanical, biological, and chemical filtration, are easy to use and maintain, and have a reliable and quiet operation.
When selecting a canister filter, consider the size of your aquarium, the types and number of fish, and the desired water flow rate. Look for filters with high-quality filter media and durable construction and consider adding additional features such as UV sterilizers or skimmers for optimal water quality.
With the right canister filter, you can ensure that your aquarium remains a beautiful and thriving ecosystem for your aquatic pets while being a source of peace and joy for you.
Image credit: Oase. https://us.oase.com/collections/aquarium-external-filters
