· filters  · 14 min read

The Best Internal Aquarium Filter to Keep Your Tank Clean

We've found the best internal aquarium filters to help you pick the perfect filter for your aquarium. Keep your tank clean with these top picks.

Aquarium filters are an essential part of any fish tank, and they come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Internal aquarium filters are a great option for smaller tanks, as they can be easily hidden inside the tank. They are also relatively inexpensive and easy to maintain. Here are a few of the best internal aquarium filters on the market:

Overview

AquaMiracle 3-Stage Internal Aquarium Filter
Crystal Clear Aquarium Waters with AquaMiracle's Powerful Filtration
AquaMiracle 3-Stage Internal Aquarium Filter
Penn Plax Cascade 600 Internal Aquarium Filter
Keep Your Aquatic Environment Pristine with Our Top-Rated Aquarium Filter
Penn Plax Cascade 600 Internal Aquarium Filter
Aqueon QuietFlow Internal Filter: Pristine Aquarium, Minimal Effort
Experience crystal-clear waters and a thriving aquatic ecosystem with Aqueon QuietFlow Internal Filter.
Aqueon QuietFlow Internal Filter: Pristine Aquarium, Minimal Effort
Tetra Whisper In-Tank Filter 40i with BioScrubber for 20-40 Gallon Aquariums Tetra Whisper In-Tank Filter 40i with BioScrubber for 20-40 Gallon Aquariums

PROS

  • Efficiently filters water in tanks up to 40 gallons, removing dirt and debris.
  • Equipped with BioScrubber, which aids in breaking down fish waste and reducing odor.
  • Quiet operation ensures a peaceful atmosphere for aquarium inhabitants.
  • Easy to install and maintain, with customizable flow rate for optimal water circulation.
  • Compact design fits discreetly in the tank without taking up valuable space.

CONS

  • May require regular cleaning to prevent clogging.
  • Some users have reported issues with the suction cups, needing additional reinforcement.

The Tetra Whisper In-Tank Filter 40i offers a comprehensive solution for maintaining pristine water in aquariums up to 40 gallons. Its core feature, the BioScrubber, effectively breaks down fish waste, significantly reducing unpleasant odors. Equipped with adjustable flow control, this filter allows you to customize the water circulation, ensuring optimal oxygenation for your aquatic denizens.

Installing and maintaining the Tetra Whisper Filter is a breeze. Its compact design seamlessly integrates into the aquarium environment, occupying minimal space. The filter's quiet operation ensures a serene atmosphere, allowing your fish to thrive without disturbance. While regular cleaning is necessary to maintain its efficacy, the process is straightforward and effortless. Overall, the Tetra Whisper In-Tank Filter 40i is an excellent choice for hobbyists seeking a reliable and efficient filtration system for their aquariums.

Fluval U3 Underwater Filter: Optimal Filtration Within Your Aquatic Realm Fluval U3 Underwater Filter: Optimal Filtration Within Your Aquatic Realm

PROS

  • Efficaciously eliminates impurities, ensuring pristine water conditions.
  • Unobtrusively submerges within the aquarium, maintaining an aesthetically pleasing environment.
  • Adaptable to both freshwater and saltwater aquariums, catering to diverse aquatic ecosystems.

CONS

  • May require occasional cleaning to maintain optimal performance.
  • Consideration should be given to the filter's size relative to the aquarium's dimensions.

The Fluval U3 Underwater Filter emerges as a prime choice for aquarium enthusiasts seeking an efficient and reliable filtration system. Its unobtrusive design seamlessly integrates into your aquatic realm, meticulously eliminating impurities and safeguarding the well-being of your aquatic inhabitants. Furthermore, its adaptability to both freshwater and saltwater environments makes it a versatile solution across diverse aquatic ecosystems. To ensure longevity and optimal performance, periodic cleaning is recommended to maintain the filter's efficacy. Additionally, careful consideration should be given to selecting the appropriate filter size in relation to the dimensions of your aquarium.

Beyond its core filtration capabilities, the Fluval U3 Filter unveils an array of notable features. Its adjustable flow rate empowers you to tailor filtration intensity to suit the specific requirements of your aquatic environment. Moreover, its energy-efficient operation translates into cost savings while promoting environmental sustainability. The filter media included within the package effectively traps debris and harmful substances, providing comprehensive water purification. Additionally, the filter's quiet operation ensures a tranquil ambiance within your aquatic haven, fostering the well-being of your aquatic companions.

XpertMatic 3 Stages Aquarium Internal Filter for Crystal Clear Water XpertMatic 3 Stages Aquarium Internal Filter for Crystal Clear Water

PROS

  • 3-stage filtration system effectively removes dirt, debris, and impurities for pristine water.
  • Powerful water pump ensures optimal circulation and oxygenation, promoting fish health.
  • Submersible design allows for easy installation and maintenance.
  • Suitable for fish tanks up to 120 gallons, providing a clean and spacious environment for your aquatic pets.

CONS

  • May require occasional cleaning to maintain optimal performance.
  • Noise level may be noticeable in smaller tanks.

The XpertMatic 3 Stages Aquarium Internal Filter is an exceptional choice for hobbyists seeking crystal clear water and a thriving aquatic ecosystem. Its 3-stage filtration system efficiently captures dirt, debris, and impurities, leaving your tank sparkling and your fish healthy. The powerful water pump ensures adequate circulation and oxygenation, creating an environment that promotes fish well-being. Installation and maintenance are a breeze thanks to the submersible design, making it suitable for aquariums of varying sizes. For tanks up to 120 gallons, this filter provides ample space for your aquatic companions to thrive.

While maintenance may be required occasionally to ensure peak performance, the benefits far outweigh this minor inconvenience. The filter's noise level is a factor to consider, especially in smaller tanks. However, its effectiveness in maintaining water quality and fish health make it an excellent investment for any aquarium enthusiast.

Polishing Internal Canister Filter for Aquariums Up To 97 Gallons, 10.5 IN (ML90770) Polishing Internal Canister Filter for Aquariums Up To 97 Gallons, 10.5 IN (ML90770)

PROS

  • Impressive filtration capabilities, effectively removing debris and impurities to maintain crystal-clear water.
  • Convenient internal design allows for easy installation and maintenance, taking up minimal space within the aquarium.
  • Adjustable flow rate enables customization to suit different aquarium sizes and inhabitants.

CONS

  • Filter media may require frequent cleaning or replacement to maintain optimal performance.
  • Humming sound during operation may be noticeable in quieter environments.

The MarineLand Magnum Polishing Internal Canister Filter is an exceptional choice for maintaining pristine water quality in aquariums up to 97 gallons. Its advanced design incorporates a powerful motor that drives water through multiple stages of filtration, ensuring the removal of harmful particles and impurities. This results in a significant improvement in water clarity and overall aquarium health.

The internal canister design of this filter is both space-saving and convenient. It sits securely within the aquarium, eliminating the need for bulky external filtration systems. Accessing the filter media for cleaning or replacement is also a breeze, making maintenance a hassle-free task. Additionally, the adjustable flow rate allows you to tailor the filtration power to suit your specific aquarium's requirements.

NICREW Submersible Aquarium Power Filter for Small to Medium Tanks NICREW Submersible Aquarium Power Filter for Small to Medium Tanks

PROS

  • Ideal for small to medium-sized fish tanks (5-10 gallons)
  • Provides 53 GPH water flow for effective filtration
  • Multiple filtration functions: mechanical, chemical, and biological
  • Submersible design for easy setup and discreet placement
  • Energy-efficient operation with low power consumption (5W)

CONS

  • May require regular cleaning to maintain optimal performance
  • Flow rate may not be sufficient for larger tanks

If you're looking for a reliable and efficient internal aquarium filter for your small to medium-sized fish tank, the NICREW Submersible Aquarium Power Filter is an excellent choice. With its powerful 53 GPH water flow and multiple filtration functions, it effectively removes waste particles and impurities, ensuring a clean and healthy environment for your aquatic pets.

The filter's compact design and submersible nature make it easy to set up and use. Simply submerge the filter in the water and connect it to a power source. The filter's adjustable flow rate allows you to customize the water circulation according to your tank's specific needs. Additionally, the filter's energy-efficient operation makes it a cost-effective and eco-friendly solution for aquarium filtration.

NO.17 - The Submersible Aquarium Internal Filter NO.17 - The Submersible Aquarium Internal Filter

PROS

  • 12-watt power pump delivers 320 gallons per hour of water flow for efficient filtration
  • Multi-layered filter media effectively traps debris, removes pollutants, and ensures crystal-clear water

CONS

  • May require some adjustments to achieve optimal water flow
  • Can be slightly noisy during operation

Introducing the NO.17 Submersible Aquarium Internal Filter, the ultimate solution for maintaining a pristine and healthy aquatic environment for your beloved fish and plants. Its 12-watt pump generates a powerful 320 GPH water flow, swiftly circulating and filtering the water in tanks ranging from 50 to 150 gallons. The multi-layered filter media acts as a formidable defense, capturing debris, odorous pollutants, and other impurities, presenting you with unparalleled water clarity and a flourishing habitat for your aquatic inhabitants. Adjusting the water flow to suit your tank's specific needs is a breeze, ensuring your fish and plants thrive in their optimized surroundings. While the filter may emit a slight hum during operation, its unwavering efficiency and the profound benefits it brings to your aquarium far overshadow this minor drawback.

Whether you're a seasoned aquarist or embarking on your first aquatic escapade, the NO.17 Submersible Aquarium Internal Filter stands as a steadfast companion, diligently providing the pure and revitalizing water that's the lifeblood of your aquatic ecosystem. Experience the transformative power of this must-have filtration system and witness the vibrancy and well-being of your underwater paradise flourish.

AquaMiracle 3-Stage Internal Aquarium Filter AquaMiracle 3-Stage Internal Aquarium Filter

PROS

  • 3-stage filtration system ensures crystal clear water for your fish
  • Compact design fits easily into most 10-40 gallon fish tanks
  • Dual water outlet provides optimal water circulation and aeration
  • Easy to install and maintain, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced aquarists

CONS

  • Can be noisy when first installed
  • May not be suitable for larger fish tanks
The AquaMiracle Aquarium Filter is a great choice for anyone looking for an efficient and affordable way to keep their fish tank water clean and clear.

With its 3-stage filtration system, the AquaMiracle filter removes dirt, debris, and other impurities from your water, leaving it sparkling clean and healthy for your fish. The compact design of the filter means that it can easily fit into most 10-40 gallon fish tanks, and its dual water outlet provides optimal water circulation and aeration. The filter is also easy to install and maintain, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced aquarists.

Aquarium Filter for 40-150 Gal. Tank Crystal 300GPH Internal Filter Fish Tank Pond Aquarium Filter for 40-150 Gal. Tank Crystal 300GPH Internal Filter Fish Tank Pond

PROS

  • Ideal for large tanks (40-150 gallons), providing ample filtration capacity.
  • Delivers exceptional water clarity with its powerful 300 GPH pump and high-quality biochemical filtration system.
  • Versatile 4-in-1 design combines filtration, wavemaking, and air supply, simplifying maintenance.
  • Offers adjustable flow control, allowing for customization to suit specific tank needs.
  • User-friendly and easy to install, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced hobbyists.

CONS

  • Might be slightly noisy during operation.
  • Requires regular cleaning to maintain optimal performance.

The Aquarium Filter for 40-150 Gal. Tank is an exceptional internal filter designed to provide crystal-clear water and a thriving environment for your aquatic inhabitants. With its powerful 300 GPH pump and advanced biochemical filtration system, this filter effectively removes impurities, ensuring a pristine aquatic ecosystem.

The filter's versatility further enhances its value. By combining filtration, wavemaking, and air supply into one compact unit, it streamlines maintenance and reduces the need for multiple devices. The adjustable flow control feature allows you to customize the filtration intensity based on your tank's specific requirements.

Penn Plax Cascade 600 Internal Aquarium Filter Penn Plax Cascade 600 Internal Aquarium Filter

PROS

  • Offers a complete filtration system, providing physical, biological, and chemical filtration.
  • Submersible design allows for easy installation and maintenance.
  • Adjustable flow rate mechanism enables customization based on tank size and species' needs.
  • Includes replaceable filter media, simplifying maintenance and ensuring optimal performance.

CONS

  • Some users have reported issues with the suction cups losing adhesion over time.
  • The filter may be noisy when operating at higher flow rates.

For hobbyists seeking a reliable and efficient filtration solution for their aquatic haven, the Penn Plax Cascade 600 Internal Aquarium Filter emerges as an exceptional choice. This fully submersible device caters to a wide range of aquarium and turtle tank setups, offering a comprehensive filtration system that addresses physical, biological, and chemical impurities.

With its adjustable flow rate, you can effortlessly tailor the filter's performance to suit the size of your tank and the specific requirements of your aquatic inhabitants. Maintaining the filter is a breeze thanks to the easily replaceable filter media, ensuring optimal filtration efficiency at all times.

Aqueon QuietFlow Internal Filter: Pristine Aquarium, Minimal Effort Aqueon QuietFlow Internal Filter: Pristine Aquarium, Minimal Effort

PROS

  • Seamlessly eliminates debris and impurities, fostering a healthy environment for your aquatic inhabitants.
  • SmartClean Technology enables effortless filter maintenance, ensuring optimal performance at all times.
  • Whisper-quiet operation allows for a peaceful and serene ambiance in your aquatic haven.
  • Customizable flow control empowers you to tailor the water current to suit the specific needs of your aquarium's ecosystem.

CONS

  • May require additional media for optimal filtration in larger aquariums.

The Aqueon QuietFlow Internal Filter is an indispensable tool for maintaining a pristine and thriving aquatic environment. Its innovative SmartClean Technology revolutionizes filter maintenance, making it a breeze to keep your filter operating at peak efficiency. The whisper-quiet operation ensures a peaceful and serene atmosphere, allowing you to fully appreciate the beauty of your underwater world.

The customizable flow control is a thoughtful feature that empowers you to tailor the water current to suit the specific needs of your aquarium's inhabitants. Whether you have delicate fry or energetic swimmers, the QuietFlow Internal Filter can be effortlessly adjusted to create the ideal flow rate. Its compact size makes it an excellent choice for smaller aquariums, providing ample filtration without taking up valuable space.

Internal aquarium filters are a great way to keep your tank clean and your fish healthy. They are relatively inexpensive and easy to maintain, and they can be hidden inside the tank so they don't take up any extra space. When choosing an internal aquarium filter, be sure to consider the size of your tank, the number of fish you have, and the type of filtration you need. These top picks offer a range of features to meet your needs, and they are a great place to start your search for the best internal aquarium filter for your tank.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an internal aquarium filter?

An internal aquarium filter is a device that helps to keep your aquarium water clean. It is placed inside the tank and uses a pump to draw water through a filter media. The filter media traps dirt, debris, and other pollutants, which helps to keep the water clean and healthy for your fish.

What are the benefits of using an internal aquarium filter?

Internal aquarium filters are a great way to keep your tank clean and your fish healthy. They are relatively inexpensive and easy to maintain, and they can be hidden inside the tank so they don't take up any extra space. They are also a good option for smaller tanks.

What are the different types of internal aquarium filters?

There are two main types of internal aquarium filters: power filters and air-driven filters. Power filters use an electric pump to draw water through the filter media, while air-driven filters use an air pump to create a current of water that flows through the filter media.

How do I choose the right internal aquarium filter?

When choosing an internal aquarium filter, you need to consider the size of your tank, the number of fish you have, and the type of filtration you need. You should also consider the features of the filter, such as the flow rate, the size of the filter media, and the type of pump.

How do I maintain an internal aquarium filter?

Internal aquarium filters are relatively easy to maintain. You should clean the filter media regularly to remove dirt and debris. You should also change the filter media every few months, depending on the type of filter you have.

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