Why it is the best saltwater tank?
- Everything Included to Start a New Tank.
- Easy to Setup, Maintenance, or Customize.
- Excellent Design and Giftable.
- A good starter saltwater Kit.
- Reasonable Price.
Who doesn’t love the ocean view, and if it can combine with your hobby? Nothing can compare to this, right! That is how I felt when I have my first saltwater aquarium. The variety of fish and decorations makes them a fascinating and dream tank for an aquarium hobbyist. So, the best saltwater fish tanks can provide immense pleasure and entertainment.
However, the saltwater fish tank is harder and needs more care than freshwater. And the hardship starts with choosing the right tank for your ocean buddies. The numerous saltwater aquarium kits in the market make it challenging to pick the right one.
As you may know, from my passion for the aquarium, fish, and overall aquatic lives, I hang out and spend a lot of time with different online groups and communities related to this sector. Starting from veteran to new to a marine aquarium, people (including me) always want the best tank.
Some care about money; others don’t, as long as they have a good tank. As for me, I’m happy to spend money, if they’re worth it. I tried several tanks (mostly smaller tanks, which people call nano-reef tanks) before going for a 100-gallon one.
So, I prepared a list of best saltwater fish tanks (mini or nano reef tank) which could help you. If you’re moving to saltwater for the first time or trying smaller saltwater tanks, this article can help you with that. Along the way, I’ll also discuss several other factors that could help you to be successful with your marine venture. If you’re interested, let’s start.
Before moving into the details, let’s have a look at our list of the most popular and best saltwater fish tank or aquariums:
- Coralife LED Biocube Aquarium
- Fluval Sea Evo Saltwater Fish Tank Aquarium Kit
- SeaClear Acrylic Aquarium Combo Set
- Landen 90P 48 Gallon Rimless Aquarium Tank (Only Tank)
- Landen 60P 25.4 Gallon Rimless Aquarium Tank (Only Tank)
If you’re interested in freshwater fish tanks or aquariums, check this article on the best freshwater fish tanks.
5 Best Saltwater Fish Tanks Comparison
Before going to the saltwater fish tank recommendations and review, let me share some common knowledge that will help you whether you should go for a marine aquarium or not. And, also how to find the best tank for you.
However, if you just want to know about the products, please skip this part and go to the tank review section bellow.
Things you must know before starting a Saltwater Tank:
Is It Hard to Maintain A Saltwater Tank?
Compare to a freshwater aquarium; a saltwater tank is slightly difficult to maintain. That doesn’t mean you can’t do it. Anyone can do it; it’s easy and simple. The saltwater and freshwater tank (from maintaining perspective) is that the saltwater tank needs a little more observation and care.
Yeah, that’s all it takes. However, there were times when it was difficult to have one. As the time when information and the required products or materials were scarce, but not today. Everything or information you need they’re near your hand. So, don’t get tensed over this.
Then, why people say the saltwater tank is harder or for veteran hobbyists:
Let me share my observation, how a saltwater tank differs from freshwater. First of all-
Maintenance: The freshwater environment has more cyclical changes than saltwater, like- drying, flooding. Those different changes impact the chemical composition in the water and temperature from time to time. AS a result, freshwater fish and animals are more adapted to the variety of water conditions, which saltwater doesn’t have.
As you may also hear, beginners shouldn’t go for a saltwater tank, as from my experience, I’ll stay with that statement. The nitrogen cycle, changing water, test the water, and keep them on track could seem a little challenging for a starter.
Saltwater aquarium cost more than freshwater: Another reason that held people from going for a saltwater tank is the cost or expenses.
So, how much does a saltwater tank cost, or How much does it cost to have a saltwater fish tank-
On average for a medium saltwater tank will cost you around 700-1200 bucks within the first year. The next year, it’ll double up if you start getting more fish, equipment, and corals. But it won’t cost much, as long as you stick with less fish and setup. So, the saltwater aquarium costs little more than freshwater. That’s all.
Other than those, you may hear several other issues like- saltwater tank grows more algae than the freshwater, or a saltwater tank can’t be converted into a freshwater, etc. However, you don’t need to worry about them; those minor issues you can handle with a little effort.
Before you start reading product reviews, you should know some common distinctions or types of saltwater aquariums. The three main categories are:
- Fish Only Tank
- Fish Only with Live Rock (FOWLR)
- Reef Tank
Fish Only tank is the most basic saltwater tank where you put only marine fish and look after them, not any coral or live rocks. It is also the least expensive marine aquarium setup. A fish-only tank needs more frequent water change than other tows to keep the water quality at optimal condition.
Fish Only with Live Rock (FOWLR) is another category. The main difference between fish only and fish with live rock is the second one has live rocks in it. Other than that, everything is similar between these two. Adding live rock will increase your cost.
The Reef Tank is the most challenging among all types of aquariums. It needs better lighting, filtration, water parameter monitoring, and water quality. So, it’s costly and requires experience to keep in the best condition. That’s why it’s better suited for veteran aquarists.
There are two more subcategories in the reef category you may hear of; one is Nano-reef, and the other one is Pico reef. These are the smaller version of the reef tank.
5 Best and Popular Saltwater Fish Tanks -Product Reviews
To find the best tanks that are most suitable for a saltwater setup, we did a lots of digging. We find several fish tanks to write on. But we have selected top most popular 5 among them.
Firts three, we provided detailed product review. And the last two, we quoted some customer feedback on those products. Let’s start the review of the 5 best saltwater fish tanks:
#1. Coralife LED Biocube Aquarium LED - Product Review
Key Features and Product Description:
- Coral 32-gallon Black Glass Aquarium.
- Square Shape.
- Cooling Fan.
- Dual Intakes.
- Low-Profile Hood.
- Hinge-top Canopy.
- Submersible Pump.
- Clear Glass Back Panel.
- Adjustable Return Nozzle.
- Sleek and Rounded Design.
- Automatic 30/60 Minute Lighting Functions.
- Compact and Customizable built-in Filtration Chamber.
- 24-Hour Timer with Three Independent Channels (white, blue, and Color Enhancing).
This is the current price of the Coralife LED Biocube Aquarium LED Aquarium Kit at Amazon (affiliate link takes you to Amazon.com).
Why this is one of the best Saltwater Fish Tank in the market:
Build Quality- From my observation and experience on this Corallife Biocube tank’s build quality is decent, not great or worse. It’s somewhat in the middle. So, don’t expect a top-built fish tank.
Size and Design– Mine was a 32-gallon glass tank. I heard from a customer saying- his tank was an acrylic one. And it’s a square-shaped saltwater tank.
The item dimensions are: 20.25 L x 21.88 W x 21.5 H inches.
It’s rounded-shaped corners and a clear glass back panel.
Lights- are what make this tank most lucrative to buy. The new LED offers multiple options and is attached to the hood. Lights are adjusted with a 24-hour timer, which helps to maintain three independent light channels. Bright white, sparkling blue, and color enhancing are the 3 light colors.
It also includes automatic 30-minute sunrise or sunset and a moonrise or moonset for 60 minutes to give the tank a total full day-night cycle. And lights are capable of growing simple live plants and corals.
Handling the lights could be confusing, and read some after-purchase feedback from several customers saying– things aren’t clear with the instruction manual. So, you could also face a little difficulty regarding setting up the lights. However, here’s what I found on the automated light mood schedule–
- At 8 am: Blue “Moonlights” (channel 3) start to elevate (and stay on all day)
- At 9 am: Color-enhancing “sunrise/sunset” lights (channel 2) begin to elevate (and stay on all day)
- At 10 am: full-power daylight lights (channel 1) follow up
- At 10 pm: daylight lights turn off, color enhancing lights begin to ramp down, gradually just leaving moonlights on.
- And at 2 am: moonlights are begin to ramp down, giving the fish some total darkness till the daybreak.
Even though the lights are one of the key features of this product, they aren’t that good. I suggest a little change and customization could make it a better saltwater fish tank home.
The submersible pump’s performance is satisfactory. The only pump it includes is the filtration chamber’s return water pump. The pump output rate is 264 gph (company rate), and it makes a little noise, which can be overlooked. Consequently, the dual intakes with an adjustable return nozzle are slightly shorter.
Cooling fan creates some noise, which is originally the vibration noise. If you’re 10-15 feet away, it won’t be a bother. But if you sit next to it, it can be a little irritating.
Filter– the Corallife LED Biocube comes with a basic overfill filter, which is okay. And the filtration system is compact and customizable. So, if you need further improvement (which I did), you can perform easily.
The clear glass back panel is helpful to set-up refugium in the tank.
Low-profile hood- the lights are attached to it. And it’s a hinge-top canopy.
Pros:
All in one good starter Kit.
Good lighting and capable of growing plant and coral.
Automated lighting settings with a timer.
Customizable Filtration System.
Cons:
Cooling Fan Makes a Little Noise.
Lights Need Little Improvements.
Build Quality is Average.
Overall: From the observation and research, this is one of the most popular and suitable for saltwater fish tank setup. Yes, this isn’t perfect; but compared to other products, this is definitely on the top.
Click here to buy this Coralife LED Biocube Aquarium LED kit at Amazon (affiliate link takes you to Amazon.com).
#2. Fluval Sea Evo V Saltwater Fish Tank Aquarium Kit
Key Features and Product Description:
- Fluval Black Colored Glass Kit.
- Rectangular Shape.
- 13.5 Gallon (52 L).
- Three Stage Filtration.
- Waterproof Aluminum Casing.
- Circulation pump with output nozzle.
- Multifunctional Canopy with Feeding Door.
- LED Touch Day & Night Light (Bright 14000 K)
- Dimensions: 22 L x 11.5 W x 15 H inches (56 x 29 x 38 centimeter)
- Honeycomb Design with Concealed Rear Compartment and Water Line.
Click here to visit the shop of this Fluval Sea Evo V Saltwater Fish Tank at Amazon (affiliate link takes you to Amazon.com).
Fluval Sea Evo Saltwater Fish Tank Aquarium Kit Product Review:
Build, Design, and Size- Fluval is one of the renowned aquarium kit manufacturers. There builds quality is fine, and I’m a regular user of their different products related to this.
Fluval Sea Evo tank is decently built and has excellent design, 9 out of 10 people will like it. This rectangular-shaped black glass tank’s dimension is 56 L x 29 W x 38 H centimeter. So, it’s not a biggie. You can decorate it at any place. It’ll sure look good.
It’s a 13.5-gallon or 52-liter tank. However, when you put live rocks, sands, and decorations, you’ll have around 10. So, it’s a pretty small saltwater tank.
The good thing about this tank’s design is that- it conceals the rear part of the aquarium filter water compartment. They call it a honeycomb design. The filter and other items like protein skimmer (not added with tank) or anything else you want to add, the setup is on the tank’s left side, making it easily accessible. But space is a little tight.
The casing is waterproof, which I think a good option too.
The canopy of the tank is a multifunctional one, but it’s not a hinge. It’s an easy feeding hole without the lid, and the lights are attached to it. Also, the touch switch for turning on-off of the light is on the right side beside the feeding hole.
The Pump- It’s a 132 GPH submersible pump is concealed behind the integrated filter system. Dual multi-directional water outlets make it easy to create currents in the aquarium. It also has an output nozzle. Overall, the pump performance is okay. But, changing with a better one is preferable.
The water circulation isn’t that much of satisfactory.
Lights: The tank’s lights are medium quality and waterproof, the company claimed. Lights are LED, and touch sensor on-off. Sensor has three options- white, blue, and off. It’s enough for medium-light requiring corals.
The lighting system is integrated, and according to the manufacturer- it’s a 14000 K LED. And it’s safe and low-voltage transfer.
Filtration– Fluval is always one of the top filter manufacturers in the market. Fluval Sea Evo has 3-stage filtration with oversized chemical, biological, and mechanical media.
The –stage filtration is of a foam blocked to capture algae, debris, and other particles. The carbon chamber provides chemical stage filtration. And the Biomax media is in the biological filter chamber.
Heater/Thermometer/Protein Skimmer not included: This tank doesn’t come with a heater, thermometer, or protein skimmer. However, the manufacturer recommended heater can work fine with the tank. I had my own. So, I didn’t need to buy with the tank.
A little bigger or different-shaped heater won’t fit in the compartment.
Pros:
Excellent all-in-one Aquarium Kit.
Good (integrated) Filtration System.
Small and Nice Design.
Lights are suitable to Grow Corals.
Waterproof Casing.
Cons:
Heater and Protein Skimmer needs to Add.
Lights have no physical switch or timer, and quality is also compromised.
A little Small for Saltwater Tank.
Overall: This tank is specially designed for a saltwater setup. Except for the size, it is genuinely standing on among the best saltwater aquariums. So, if you’re looking for a small saltwater tank, look no further.
Click here to visit the shop of this Fluval Sea Evo V Saltwater Fish Tank at Amazon (affiliate link takes you to Amazon.com).
#3. SeaClear Acrylic Aquarium Combo Set
Key Features and Product Description:
- SeaClear Acrylic Black Combo Set.
- 50-Gallon Rectangular Shape Tank.
- Excellent View.
- Sleek Design.
- Reflector.
- 24" Light Fixture.
- Lightweight and Impact Resistant.
- Eligible for Both Freshwater and Saltwater.
- Item Dimensions: 36 L x 15 W x 20 H inches.
Click here to visit the shop of this SeaClear Acrylic Aquarium Combo Set at Amazon (affiliate link takes you to Amazon.com).
SeaClear Acrylic Aquarium Combo Set Product Review:
The first thing you should about this tank is- it’s not a complete kit. You have to purchase a heater, protein skimmer, pump, decorations, etc.
It’s a beautiful tank. It was my first try into bigger acrylic tanks, and I think I’ve been pleased so far with my decision. I bought the 50-gallon, clear-back-panel model. There’re two options available- clear and black panel. You can choose either one while making the purchase.
The clarity is astounding, and it makes a spectacular display. There is some bowing of the front panel, which can cause distortion when viewed from close and from an angle, but 95% of viewing looks absolutely stunning. The distortion that is present doesn’t bother me, personally. But I felt it should be noted.
However, according to other users, the 50 gallon is not a bowfront; it’s just a rectangle shape with the front two corners rounded about a 1/2. But to me- it seemed bowed.
The top panel does bow and distort some (minor), and the filter box cutout is the most bowed part of the whole tank. I don’t think it’s enough to be a concern, but it is worth noting. Still, for value for the money, I think it’s fantastic.
The top panel features holes for airlines on both sides, a spot for the heater, and a wide slot for filters, giving you plenty of options. I use a canister filter on my setup and have plenty of room to slide a prefilter sponge through.
This tank was lightweight and sturdy. I can pick this 50-gallon up with one hand. It weighs maybe half of a 20-gallon glass aquarium weighed when empty. As you know, an acrylic tank needs the whole bottom support, not only the corners like a glass tank.
The light that comes with this unit is cheap. So, I threw it away. It’s a single-tube fluorescent fixture with no included bulb. Seriously SeaClear!! Don’t bother, and save the $4, and don’t have it! The light comes with a clear plastic piece that you use as a sort of “lid” for the 2 large open areas in the top.
You can’t top off the tank because the middle of the tank bows inward a bit. So that, before the water reaches the top, it could overflow!
There’re two openings at the top, with a thin piece of acrylic connecting them. A low-priced and corrugated-looking plastic covers this opening. However, for the price, I expected at least real acrylic, not plastic.
You have to remove the light and this plastic covering to feed your fish. You could just slide the light fixture back a bit, but I’m afraid of the light falling into the tank and getting electrocuted. So, better to remove it when feeding the fish. Not that big of a deal, but it would have been better to have a lid that lifts.
P.S.: This is the mix of customers and our opinion about this tank. So, we include something from different customers and ours for a better review on this product. Hope, it’ll be helpful to you guys.
Pros:
The View is Excellent and Clear.
Lightweight Tank.
Customizable.
Tank Build Quality is Satisfactory.
Near seamless edge
Both Saltwater and Freshwater Setup would be Fine.
Cons:
Light isn’t Good Enough.
Cheap Looking Plastic Cover.
Don’t have a heater or Skimmer.
Can’t top off the tank.
Overall: This isn’t a complete set or aquarium kit. Just the tank and some other items. This acrylic design is well-suited for you if you are looking for a sturdy tank.
Click here to visit the shop of this SeaClear Acrylic Aquarium Combo Set at Amazon (affiliate link takes you to Amazon.com).
#4. Landen 90P 48 Gallon Rimless Low Iron Aquarium (Tank Only)
Key Features and Product Description:
- Landen Clear Tempered Glass Tank.
- Rectangular Shape.
- 90P 48 Gallons.
- Weight: 85.8 lbs. in net weight.
- Black Nano foam leveling mat.
- Dimensions: 35.4" L × 17.7" W × 17.7" H (90cm x 45cm x 45cm)
Click here to visit the shop of this Landen 90P 48 Gallon Rimless Aquarium Tank at Amazon (affiliate link takes you to Amazon.com).
Landen 90P 48 Gallon Rimless Low Iron Aquarium Tank Product Review:
If you’re experienced enough to handle the decoration and choose the other required items to start a saltwater fish tank, our suggestion will be to purchase an empty tank. And decorate the tank as you like. We find this (only tank) aquarium in the market, which is good quality and an excellent choice.
We shared some customer feedback on this product to understand and evaluate yourself, whether it’s worth your time and bucks.
Customer Feedback:
- The aquarium came very well packaged and undamaged. It arrived just as scheduled. It sits inside of Styrofoam and is double boxed and wrapped once with bubble wrap. I’m not sure how effective the once wrapped bubble wrap is, but the Styrofoam and double box will provide extra safety. Should survive the shipping process just fine! Mine arrived perfectly!
- I’m delighted with the glass’s clarity, but I am a little concerned with the quality of the silicone that it’s attached with. The edges do line up nicely. The size is in the description is accurate. The logo “Landen” is plastic and is glued onto the glass. You can remove it if you want. Try razor blade.
- I’ve built a new nano-planted tank using this. The Landen decal on the front can be peeled off with a razor blade (It took away from the aesthetic). I am sure to be purchasing a Landen tank for all future purchases.
Click here to visit the shop of this Landen 90P 48 Gallon Rimless Aquarium Tank at Amazon (affiliate link takes you to Amazon.com).
#5. Landen 60P 25.4 Gallon Rimless Low Iron Aquarium (Only Tank)
Key Features and Product Description:
- STRELLALAB Clear Tempered Glass.
- Thickness: 8mm
- Rectangular Shape.
- Item Weight: 43.6 pounds
- Dimensions: 23.6" L × 15.7" W × 15.7" H (60cm x 40cm x 40cm)
Click here to visit the shop of this Landen 60P 25.4 Gallon Rimless Aquarium Tank at Amazon (affiliate link takes you to Amazon.com).
Landen 60P 25.4 Gallon Rimless Low Iron Aquarium Tank – Review:
Another awesome tank from the Landen; from our research and observation, Laden’s empty tanks are top class. Doesn’t matter if you are planning for a saltwater or freshwater fish tank. Same as the previous product, check some after-purchase comments of this product to evaluate this one.
Customer Feedback:
- I’m glad to report no leaks, which honestly, I didn’t expect it to have due to Landen’s quality and their impeccable packing/shipping container. It’s beautiful! The silicon seams are clean, and the clarity is fantastic. I already had the 10.7-gallon Landen rimless that I have set up as a heavenly planted betta tank. I get compliments all the time. I can’t wait to get my substrate, plants, manzanita wood, and Colorado river rock to get it cycling.
- I am excited to start my community with celestial pearl danios, Cory cats, and male betta, Ozzy. If you are trying to decide on a tank, look no further. Landen tanks are amazing!
- It came in a strong wooden box with thick Styrofoam on each corner. It took some effort to open the box, but it was worth it. Glass was very high quality, and the thickness was just perfect. I painted the back in black to hide the hob refugium and wires, plus it gives you a better view of corals when it’s black. I think this tank is worth the money for the price, and I would recommend it to anyone trying to set a nano reef or even freshwater tank.
- Like others have said, this is a great tank! It came in very well packed in a wood crate, and the glass is clear and thick 3/8″. Silicon work is impeccable!
This is a only tank product and doesn’t have a lid or any other aquarium kit with. So, you have to purchase the other items separately.
Click here to visit the shop of this Landen 60P 25.4 Gallon Rimless Aquarium Tank at Amazon (affiliate link takes you to Amazon.com).
Here is another product from Landen, which is excellent in quality and features. Click the below link to learn the details on this product (the link will take you to Amazon)
Frequently Asked Questions (F. A. Qs.)
What is a good beginner saltwater tank size?
As you may know, a saltwater aquarium needs to be bigger than freshwater. Also, we say all the time- bigger the tank, the better it is. Larger tanks are more forgiving than the smaller ones. As for the saltwater tank- if you’re planning for Fish Only Tank (we have discussed this at the beginning of this article), then 10+ gallons is sufficient.
But for the reef tank, you should have a 30-50 gallons tank. Please read above if you don’t know the differences between the tanks.
However, it’s depended on your fish stock. So, if you’re planning to have high fish stock, then go for a bigger tank.
What is a good size tank for saltwater fish?
On average, you should go for a 20–30-gallon tank for your saltwater setup. Depending on several things like- fish stock, fish only tank or reef tank, etc.
From my experience, I believe if you aren’t a beginner to saltwater, then try at least a 50-gallon or more for a better experience.
What is the easiest saltwater fish to take care of?
Some best marine/saltwater fish which are an excellent choice for beginners and easy to take care of:
- Clownfish
- Firefish
- Cardinalfish
- Flame Angelfish (Japanese Pygmy Angelfish)
- Lawnmower Blenny (Jeweled Rockskipper)
- Raccoon Butterflyfish (Crescent-Masked Butterflyfish)
- Coral Beauties.
- Tangs
- Mollies
- Damselfish
Can you use ocean water for saltwater tank?
If you have accessibility to the Natural Sea Water (NSR), there is nothing wrong with using it for your saltwater tank. Rather, NSR contains microscopic life, which is beneficial for saltwater fish and tanks.
And what about rocks?
Just like water, ocean rocks are safe to use in a reef or saltwater tank. However, if the rock is out of the ocean, like- on the beach, there’s a chance it may contain some harmful chemicals while it was out. So, be careful about using them.
Do saltwater tanks need heaters?
Whether it’s a saltwater or freshwater tank, the essence of a heater depends on the fish. Tropical fish needs warmer temperature, and they need a heater in captivity if your room temperature is low. And tropical fish can be from freshwater or saltwater.
And what’s the ideal temperature for a saltwater tank?
If you have tropical marine fish, the ideal temperature is between 78-82 °F. Consequently, if it’s a reef tank, the temperature is 75-80 °F.
Also, how long can a saltwater tank last without power?
Most saltwater fish can last for days without light, but maintaining oxygen levels is important. Without the help of an uninterruptible power supply, you can manually help supply oxygen to the tank and keep water moving by filling a cup or pitcher with tank water and pouring it back into the tank.
What is the Best Saltwater Tank?
We prepare the list according to our best preferences. So, the number one tank, “Coralife LED Biocube Aquarium LED,” of this list is our best choice for a small saltwater tank. However, if you’re planning for a reef tank, SeaClear Acrylic Combo Set Tank is the best choice.
Final Thought
To become the best saltwater fish tank, it must fulfill some criteria. Just like we have mentioned above, a list of items saltwater aquarium needs to operate. Not everything is a must-have, but it’s better to have the options available.
Try to pick a complete set if you are a newbie to the saltwater domain. However, if you are a veteran, you should buy a big empty tank and decorate it as you see fit. That will give you more felexibility. Also, for a beginner, a complete aquarium kit is a perfect choice.
Don’t be afraid to hesitate on the newer journeys. Just try them; you’ll be in love before you know it. Well, my friends, that’s all for today. Until next time, have a safe and healthy aquarium time.