Best Freshwater Fish Tanks of All Time- Aquarist Land

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4.8/5
Editor Rating

Why it is the best?

  • Easy to Setup and Maintenance.
  • Heater, Filter, Decor Everything Included.
  • Excellent Build Quality with Reasonable Price. 
  • Easy to Customize.
  • A good starter Kit.
  • Safe and Beautiful.

Finding the right and the best freshwater fish tank for your water buddies is a challenge. I tried 6 different ones before holding onto one for two years. Then, I moved to a customized-designed 150-gallon fish tank. Later I added three more small aquariums in my home.

Yeah, obviously, you could say, I would rather adjust a medium tank into perfection. Why bother so many! That was my learning stage you could say.

So, I don’t think that was a waste of money and time. You’ll learn the maximum when you face the problem at first hand.

Those learning stages and my ongoing fish tank taking care activities until today, teach me many things that gave the strength and courage to prepare a list of the best freshwater tank, which may help you little to find the right one for yourselves.

Well, today we gonna talk about what re the best and most popular freshwater aquarium, how you can find one for yourself, and many more. So, let’s get started-

How we prepared this product list, and why should you care?

Before you check our recommended list and product reviews or guidelines, you should know how we do the screening process. When I was looking online about the best fish tank for freshwater fish, many sites provide similar information. So, how we differentiate ourselves from the rest:

We have a researching team that provides information based on their personal experience. We took direct customer feedback. We contact different customers to learn about their ins and outs of the product. Because of some problems, we didn’t face, but other people did.

We even contact the company or supplier to clarify things or problems, whether it’s a production problem or not. We spent hours, days, and even weeks preparing the list of the market’s best possible products.  

That’s why we can assure you, our products list is the best among the bests. Definitely, we aren’t perfect; as humans, we make mistakes too. Still, our effort and honesty always present while doing the job.  

If you’re in a hurry, we present our picks in a table, along with some comparisons. You can see our recommended best freshwater fish tanks on the market. However, we don’t suggest you buy a product from the table or list until you read our feedback and findings.

Before starting our aquarium or fish tank reviews, let’s discuss some topics which will help you understand, evaluate, or select the right tank for you.

Freshwater and Saltwater Tank, Do They Differ To Each Other:

You must know, there is no particular difference between freshwater and saltwater aquarium. You can make any tank into freshwater or saltwater. However, the saltwater tank needs some extra care and decorations. And saltwater tank setup is a little expensive than the freshwater.

Also, a freshwater tank can be as small as 1-5-gallons. But, as for a saltwater tank, the recommended tank size is 30-gallons or more. Still, some tank is better suited for saltwater setup, and some for freshwater. Keeping this in mind, we tried to prepare this list, which is better friendly to freshwater setup.

How to Choose the Right/Best Fish Tank:

To find the right tank for you, you need to consider some factors that will help you identify the best product. Let’s see what those are –

Saltwater or Freshwater: As we’ve mentioned, first decide whether you want to have a freshwater fish tank or a saltwater one. That will help you get the idea of what else you will need to start a new aquarium.

Most people go for the freshwater tank because of the ease of maintenance and the required product availability. However, it’s up to you to choose.

Can you use a freshwater tank for saltwater?

Freshwater or Saltwater tank don’t have any key difference or are not specially designed for either. Therefore, any fish tank you can as freshwater or saltwater. However, you have to change the setup according to your desire.

Remember, freshwater aquatic creatures won’t survive in a saltwater setup. And if you want to convert a freshwater tank to saltwater, it’s like starting a saltwater tank from scratch. And also, finding a home for your freshwater buddies.

Fish Type: The next thing is the fish you’ll have in your tank. Why it’s important? Because different fish do better in an individual tank environment when others may not.

Like tropical fish needs a heater to keep the water temperature at a certain level. In contrast, a cold-water fish doesn’t need a heater to keep the water warm.

So, before buying a new tank, keep in mind what type of fish you’ll have in your tank.

Tank Size: The size of the aquarium can affect your water buddy’s life quite a lot. Saltwater fish needs a bigger tank than freshwater. Also, fish like guppies don’t require much space to survive, while fish like Oscar need more than 50-gallon for a single fish.

Decorations: Decorations are essential for fish. Most fish don’t feel secure in a tank if they can’t hide from the light, and without decorations where your fish will play!!

Consequently, the aquarium’s fish can feel stressed and die if you put them into a clean tank without any shades.

6 Most Popular and Best Freshwater Fish Tanks of All Time - Product Reviews

In this section, we’ll discuss the products we think could be the right choice for you if you’re looking for a freshwater aquarium. We’ve provided an in-depth review of every product we believe is the best.

Product reviews have the same sequence as in the comparison table. So, if you read about a specific product, scroll down to that number.

1. Tetra Aquarium 20 Gallon Fish Tank Kit, Includes LED Lighting and Décor -Product Review


Key Features and Product Description:

This is the current price of the Tetra Aquarium 20 Gallon Fish Tank Kit at Amazon (affiliate link takes you to Amazon.com).

Why I recommend this product and how it could be the best buy for you:

It is a great option for beginners in aqua life who is looking for a bigger tank for the first time, as it has almost everything necessary to start a new freshwater tank.

The glass is made from good material and is well assembled. The heater maintains a temperature of 24 to 26 degrees.

And the filter, despite being short, does its function. Remember this, 20 gallons tank needs a filter of about 60, and it was only 20. So, you will need another filter to have optimal performance.

The LED display is good. The heater is pre-configured, but the heater can handle any weather condition. So, there’s nothing to be worried about.

The food hole is large enough for a betta or frog to jump out. Consequently, you may need the water level a little low.

And the decorated items are so far, so good, no objection there.

Pros:

  • Almost Everything Included.

  • Easy to assemble and maintain.

  • Reasonable Price.

  • Giftable.

  • Build quality is good.

  • Glass doesn’t get scratch easily.

Cons:

  • Have to Add gravel before start the aquarium.

  • Filter is little short for the tank.

  • Non-adjustable Heater.

  • Plastic LED hood.

Product Summary: This a great value tank for the money. It comes with almost everything you need to start a tank. For a starter, who is moving to a bigger tank for the first time, I believe this could be one of the best fish tanks for them.

Click here to buy this Tetra Aquarium 20 Gallon Fish Tank Kit at Amazon (affiliate link takes you to Amazon.com).

2. Marina LED 20-Gallons Aquarium Kit - Product Review

Key Features and Product Description:

Click here to visit the shop of this Marina LED 20-Gallons Aquarium Kit at Amazon (affiliate link takes you to Amazon.com).

Marina LED 20-Gallons Aquarium Kit Product Review:

The Marina LED aquarium kit comes ready out of the box. So, it’s convenient for novice aquarium hobbyists. There are very few things to complain about.

The filter is quiet enough not to bother you. Don’t have a heater or thermometer with the setup. So, if you want to keep tropical fish and your room temperature is below their living condition, you have to purchase those items.

And the filter is quite sufficient for the tank. Follow the instruction, changing one at a time. The filter cartridges are cheap, and replacement needs around once every 5-6 months, and changing them is effortless. Pull them out and change the desired one.

LED light is a pretty simple daylight color, which was sufficient for me. However, if you want to put another lighting for, say- Glofish, you need to make the purchase. The light is a little hard to use as a night light. But not everyone bothers with light during sleep

Pros:

  • Easy to Set up and Maintenance.

  • Everything included starting a new tank.

  • Good Build Quality.

  • Excellent Filter System.

  • Easy to make the change.

  • LED has enough power to grow live plants.

Cons:

  • Price is Relatively Little High.

  • Doesn’t have a heater or thermometer.

  • Also doesn’t include the decorations or gravel. 

  • No Aeration System.

Our Decision: This is an excellent tank for freshwater setup. Especially, the filter and the build quality are above average. Though the price, decoration, heater, and thermometer are a little bummer, this fish tank is still one the best tank in the market.

Click here to visit the shop of this Marina LED 20-Gallons Aquarium Kit at Amazon (affiliate link takes you to Amazon.com).

3. Tetra ColorFusion Aquarium 20 Gallon Fish Tank Kit, Includes LED Lighting and Décor

Key Features and Product Description:

Click here to visit the shop of this Tetra ColorFusion Aquarium 20 Gallon Fish Tank Kit at Amazon (affiliate link takes you to Amazon.com).

Tetra ColorFusion Aquarium 20 Gallon Fish Tank Kit Product Review:

Let’s walk you through what you can expect from this tank. First of all, the tank itself is nice, not too big or small.

The pump and filter are quiet. You may hear the sound of water movement, which is relaxing and enjoyable. However, you’ll need to replace the filter bag monthly.

The heater comes with a fixed temperature, and carry the job.

A thermometer, not the top one, sticks outside the tank. And sure, ok for the tank.

Decorative plants aren’t satisfactory. And they seem odd and fake-looking. But the anemone is cute, and I kept it in the tank.

Color fusion light cycles through the colors. You have to press and hold the button to start or remain on a color you wish. There is no off switch, and if you want to light off, you need to unplug it or put it on a timer. First, it may seem a little confusing; after trying a few times, you’ll understand the procedure.

The tank doesn’t come with gravel or water testing kit. So, you’ve to purchase them.

Fish food and water conditioner will soon run out, which comes with the tank. Also, it comes with a small fishnet.

This tank’s decorations are for saltwater setup. However, it does perfectly in a freshwater set up too.

Pros:

  • Everything Included to start a new tank.

  • Easy to setup and maintenance.

  • Tank build quality is fine.

  • Nice Color Fusion.

  • Filter doesn’t make noise.

  • Giftable.

  • Good Value for the Money.

Cons:

  • Non-adjustable Heater.

  • Decorations are cheap.

  • The Lighting system isn’t easy to perform and needs improvement.

  • No built-in timer for the Lights.

Click here to visit the shop of this Tetra ColorFusion Aquarium 20 Gallon Fish Tank Kit at Amazon (affiliate link takes you to Amazon.com).

Overall:The price it’s offering and the items included with the tank are a great value for the money without a doubt. Sure, there’re cuts they had to make for this price. Still, this is a good fish tank for a starter or a veteran. 

4. Aqueon Aquarium Starter Kit with LED Lighting 20 Gallons

Key Features and Product Description:

Click here to visit the shop of this Aqueon Aquarium Starter Kit with LED Lighting 20 Gallons at Amazon (affiliate link takes you to Amazon.com).

Aqueon Aquarium Starter Kit with LED Lighting 20 Gallons Product Review:

The Tank build quality is fine, and Aqueon is a renowned company. Size and look are also fresh. However, packing could be better.

The filter is quiet and has an LED lighting signal to tell you whether it’s time to change the cartridge. That’s a fine concept.  Although, the filter isn’t capable of handling a 20-gallon tank. Always remember, filter capacity needs to be more than the tank size.

The preset heater struggles to keep the water temperature above 70. So, if you need more temperature, better purchase another one.

LED lights are ok and energy-efficient. And they’re attached to the tank’s hood. However,  the lights don’t have any cover or protection. So, if the water splashes, the lights are vulnerable. Also, during winter, when the heater is on, water evaporation makes the lights dump.

The hood of the tank is a low profile one. The two cutouts are for filter and other accessories’ s customization.

Other supplies (food, net, water conditioner) are better than the pictures.

Pros:

  • Easy to assemble and maintain.

  • Nice and Good Quality Tank.

  • Low Noise of the Filter.

  • Great Value for Money.

  • Comes with Everything Required for a New Tank.

Cons:

  • Filter isn’t sufficient.

  • The heater also lacks power.

  • Doesn’t have gravel or decorations.

Overall: You’ll like the tank for sure. But not the inclusions it comes with. The price is fair for the tank and the supplies. If you stay with less fish load and room temperature is average, then you’ll love this tank.

Click here to visit the shop of this Aqueon Aquarium Starter Kit with LED Lighting 20 Gallons at Amazon (affiliate link takes you to Amazon.com).

5. GloFish Aquarium Kit Fish Tank with LED Lighting and Filtration Included

Key Features and Product Description:

Click here to visit the shop of this GloFish 20 Gallon Aquarium Kit at Amazon (affiliate link takes you to Amazon.com).

GloFish 20 Gallon Aquarium Kit Product Review:

The tank is decent and nice looking. Mine had no defects or leaks. Build quality– satisfied and easy to set up.

The filter is Tetra whisper 20, and as I’ve mentioned earlier- for a 20-gallon tank, 20 filter isn’t enough, and it wasn’t either. The noise was low, not something that needs to be worried about.  And the suction line isn’t long enough to reach the bottom. So, you’ll need an extra piece for that.

The lights are fair, blue, and white. The blue light was fantastic with GloFIsh in the tank.

The non-adjustable heater can keep the water temperature above 75. So, you can use it for most of the freshwater fish.

Decoration plants aren’t look real. I never used them in my tank.

The lid is rather flimsy. So, be careful while handling it.

Pros:

  • Excellent Lighting.

  • Easy to assemble and Maintain.

  • Everything included.

  • Low Noise Level.

  • Reasonable Price.

Cons:

  • Heater is non-adjustable.

  • Need some extra purchase for optimum performance.

  • The lid is flimsy.

Overall: The tank itself a great, but like most other tanks in the market, the included items aren’t that great. The asking price is reasonable, and you’ll love the lighting work of this tank. You can make it an exceptional tank by making some extra purchases.

Click here to visit the shop of this GloFish 20 Gallon Aquarium Kit at Amazon (affiliate link takes you to Amazon.com).

6. Aqueon Fish NeoGlow LED Aquarium Starter Kits

Key Features and Product Description:

Click here to visit the shop of this Aqueon Fish NeoGlow LED Aquarium Starter Kits at Amazon (affiliate link takes you to Amazon.com).

Aqueon Fish NeoGlow LED Aquarium Starter Kits Review:

When I ordered didn’t notice the color availability. So, before your purchase, you should ask the supplier whether the other colors are available. So, you can pick the right one for you.

This is a 10-gallon glass tank from Aqueon. Mine was fresh and nice. Build quality is average, nothing to brag about.

The Blue LED is lovely, and everything inside the tank seems glowing. The on-off button is touch, which is a useful feature. Even this light works fine with a timer.

The heater worked fine for me. It can keep the water around 75-78. However, it’s non-adjustable.

The filter doesn’t make noticeable noise. And filter the water quite faster. It’s easy to clean or change and also has a bio sponge too.

The tank has a black background, which worked fine for me.

Multi-Colored gravel looks excellent with Blue LED. However, this tank’s decorative plants are cheap looking too, and we didn’t use them either.

Another thing I loved about this tank; it offers multiple shapes. Mine was rectangular, though.

Pros:

  • Size is Perfect for a Small Space.

  • Comes with Everything.

  • Blue LED looks Great.

  • Easy to assemble and customize or maintenance.

  • Multiple colors and shapes.

Cons:

  • Build Quality isn’t Great.

  • No water Testing Kit.

  • Fish colors can be unclear under the Blue LED.

Overall: The has everything needs to start a new tank, and the blue LED looks great. The price is reasonable, with the build quality is compromised a little. So, overall a decent tank for starting a freshwater fish tank at home.

Click here to visit the shop of this Aqueon Fish NeoGlow LED Aquarium Starter Kits at Amazon (affiliate link takes you to Amazon.com).

As we always suggest to have a bigger tank for your fish, until now first 5 of the fish tanks in our best freshwater aquarium list were 20-gallon, and the last one is a 10-gallon tank. However, sometimes we don’t have the luxury to keep a bigger tank.

When we start or try a new hobby, we don’t want to go for the bigger ones first. And going for a larger one, in the beginning, isn’t a wise decision either. So, if you’re trying to get to know or giving someone to who isn’t already an aquarium hobbyist, you should try a smaller tank rather than a big one.

Consequently, we’re adding some best smaller freshwater fish tanks for your convenience. If you’re interested, you can check them out too. We didn’t provide whole review on them, just the main specs.

You know what! These fish tanks are great for a starter or small aquarium in my experience. 

7. Marineland Portrait Glass LED Aquarium Kit, 5 Gallons, Hidden Filtration

Key Features and Product Description:

Click here to visit the shop  and Read the Buyers Reviews of this Marineland Portrait Glass LED Aquarium Kit at Amazon (affiliate link takes you to Amazon.com).

9. Fluval Spec V Aquarium Kit, 5-Gallon

Key Features and Product Description:

Click here to visit the shop  and Read the Buyers Reviews of this Fluval Spec V Aquarium Kit, 5-Gallon at Amazon (affiliate link takes you to Amazon.com).

Freshwater Aquarium/Fish Tank Guide

What is a freshwater tank?

The freshwater tank holds the freshwater aquatic animals for pet-keeping, research, or decorative purpose. You can also think of it this way, a freshwater tank that doesn’t set up or arrange to keep saltwater fish or aquatic organisms.

If you’re new to this sector, the saltwater tank, which is similar to ocean, and the freshwater tank is identical to a pond, river, canal, etc.

Are freshwater fish tanks hard to maintain?

Not really; maintaining a freshwater tank needs some research, commitment, and attention. But not difficult. Rather, you’ll soon become obsessed with your fish tank and will love spending time and work on your tank. 

Don’t search how it’s, just start with some basic preparation and you’ll enjoy it.

What do I need for a freshwater aquarium/ What is necessary for a freshwater fish tank?

Depending on your required size, fish type, and home temperature there’re several things you need to start a freshwater tank. You’ll need-

  • A tank.
  • Decorations.
  • Heater and thermometer for tropical fish.
  • Gravel.
  • Light.
  • Pump and Filter.
  • Water Conditioner.
  • Water Testing Kit.
  • Vacuum and Algae scraper.
  • Fish Food.
  • Water and Fish.

What are the prettiest fish to keep in a freshwater aquarium? 

The choice could vary from person to person. But some fish are too beautiful to ignore. Here’s some of the most beautiful/prettiest fish you can keep in your freshwater tank:

  • Betta
  • Paradise Fish
  • Harlequin Rasboras.
  • Celestial Pearl Danio.
  • Discus Fish.
  • Fancy Guppy.
  • German Blue Ram.
  • Tetras.
  • Dwarf Gourami.

Can I put fresh water/Tap Water in my fish tank?

Filling your tank with tap water or fresh water is ok, as long as you let it wait a few days before using it for fish. Because tap water has chlorine in it, and it can kill your fish. However, the faster way to use them in your tank is to use dichlorination solutions.

Don’t worry; every water conditioner or solution comes with clear instructions on “how to use it” on its packet or box. Just follow the procedure; you should good to go. However, for more safety procedures, check the water with a testing kit before putting it into your tank.

What fish can go in a freshwater tank?

There’s a lot of fish you can put in a freshwater tank. If I start to mention them all, it’ll be a long list. However, some fish need a bigger tank and special care to keep them alive. Not all of them are easy to keep as pet-fish.

Here’s some common and most popular freshwater fish for aquarium:

  • Neon Tetra.
  • Guppies.
  • Mollies.
  • Betta Fish.
  • Goldfish.
  • Angelfish.
  • Rainbowfish.
  • Zebra Danios.
  • Platies/ Platy Fish
  • The White Cloud Mountain Minnow.

Here’s a full article on the most popular and best freshwater fish- Best Freshwater Aquarium Fish (Top Fish for Freshwater Tank)

What is a good temperature for a freshwater fish tank?

Suitable or best water temperature varies from fish to fish. Some freshwater fish need warmer water to thrive, and others can do okay at the usual temperature. Warmer temperature can also affect the lifespan of your fish. However, for a tropical fish-good or best water temperature is between 75-80 °F (24-27°C).

Glass vs. Acrylic, which fish tank is the better choice for freshwater?

Another possible question you could ask as a beginner, should you buy a glass aquarium or an Acrylic one. Both have merits and demerits; you need to find out which is the best choice for you.

Acrylic tanks are light and expensive. But they’re less susceptive to breakage. The acrylic tank could get scratched easily; however, it won’t break with normal damage. The entire bottom of an acrylic tank needs support.

Glass tanks are less expensive and won’t get scratched easily. They hold up better over time and more prone to breakage. Glass tanks can hold up fine on a stand with edges.

What’s the best fish tank to buy?

As we’ve already mentioned, the best fish tank may vary according to your personal preference. One tank which worked best for me doesn’t mean it’ll be best for you too. Also, it could be perfect for you. That’s why we provide multiple product lists under the best products in the market.

Check our recommended products above, and we hope you’ll find the right one for you.

Frequently Asked Questions (F. A. Qs)

Can a fish tank be too big?

Fish tank can’t be too big. The bigger your tank is, the happier the fish is. So, there is no problem with a bigger tank, other than a space problem or maintaining. However, a bigger tank needs less maintenance and more forgiving than a smaller tank.

However, some fish needs space to swim. If they have too small a tank compare to their needs, it could be a problem.

What is the largest aquarium you can buy?

In general, online shops sell around 50–100-gallon aquariums. You’ll also find this size in your local shop. But you can always prepare a customized one. Many companies take orders to customize fish tanks, and according to your design and size, they’ll give the total cost.

So far, the largest private aquarium in the world is holding 20,000.

Yeah, that’s right. You didn’t read wrong. It’s like an indoor ocean. And the owner’s name is Bill Wann.

And, want to hear a crazier thing about this guy!

He is planning on another project, which he claims is four times larger than this one.

What size fish tank is good for beginners?

As a starter in the aquarists world, the best choice is to start with a 5-gallon tank. However, as we said several times, bigger tank needs less maintenance and more forgiving.

But for a beginner, we recommend you for a 5-gallon too. As if you made any mistakes, that won’t hurt that much. Also, you’ll be out of less money from your pocket.

Consequently, working with the small tank, you’ll understand what you need and which size is perfect for you. Don’t hesitate to do the experiments.

What is the best fish tank for cat owners?

Cat owners may feel afraid to keep an aquarium in their home. But it shouldn’t be much of a problem to keep them both in a house. So, what is the best choice for a cat owner!

Put your tank where it’s hard for a cat to get near it. You can use a stand or setup with the wall, and no space for cats to stand on.

Use tank with lids. One of the easiest solutions for cat owners to keep their fish tank safe is to use a tank with a lid. Cat can’t pull the cover from your tank.

Move your cats’ staff from near the fish tank.

Simple things like these can solve your cat-fish problem.

Here’s an article for you if you’re looking for a fish tank for kids- Best Fish Tank For Kids.

Final Say:

You can turn any aquarium into a best freshwater or saltwater aquarium. But some are better suited for a specific type. We have mentioned several products which we believe, and experienced is the best tank to make a freshwater tank.

Not a single product is perfect in every aspect. That’s why there’re multiple products on the list with our opinion and review on them. Just read and check the product in the marketplace and decide which one is best suited for you.

Even after reading our review and specification, you aren’t sure which one to pick. Comment what type of product you need and which fish you’re planning to keep. We’ll help you to pick the right one for you.

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