Are you looking for a new addition to your home or office that can bring life and tranquility into your space? Look no further than a small aquarium! These compact and beautiful tanks are a great way to create a peaceful atmosphere and add a touch of nature to your surroundings.
But with so many options on the market, how do you know which one to choose? This article will introduce you to the 7 best small aquariums perfect for any space.
When choosing a small aquarium, there are many factors to consider. Not only do you want to find a visually appealing tank, but you also want to ensure it is the right size for your space and easy to maintain.
The 7 aquariums we have chosen have all been carefully selected based on their features and benefits so that you can be confident in your purchase. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced fish keeper, there is an aquarium on this list that will meet your needs.
So sit back, relax, and get ready to discover the best small aquariums on the market!
Top 7 Recommended Aquariums
Many options exist if you’re looking for a small aquarium for your home or office. To help you narrow down your choices, here are 7 of the best small aquariums on the market.
From the Marineland Portrait Glass LED Aquarium Kit to the Hygger Horizon 8 Gallon LED Glass Aquarium Kit for Starters, these aquariums offer a range of features and sizes to fit your needs.
Marineland Portrait Glass LED Aquarium Kit
Check out the Marineland Portrait Glass LED Aquarium Kit – it’s a sleek and easy-to-maintain 5-gallon aquarium with hidden filtration and hinged LED lighting that allows easy access, making it perfect for your office desk or small apartment.
The rounded corners and clear glass canopy provide multiple angles for viewing, while the bright white and blue LEDs create a beautiful daylight and moonlight effect. Assembling and maintaining the aquarium is also a breeze, making it a great starter tank for those new to aquarium care.
Product Specs:
- Product Name: Marineland Portrait Glass LED Aquarium Kit, 5 Gallons, Hidden Filtration, Black
- Sleek design with rounded corners and clear glass canopy for viewing from multiple angles
- Daylight/moonlight lighting with bright white and blue LEDs
- Hinged LED lighting and sliding glass canopy for easy access
- 5-gallon aquarium fits Marineland Rite-Size Z Filter Cartridges
- Advanced, 3-stage filtration is hidden for enhanced aquarium viewing
- Aquarium dimensions: 9.5 x 9.5 x 14
- Easy to assemble and maintain
Pros:
- Sleek design with rounded corners and clear glass canopy for multiple viewing angles
- Easy access with hinged LED lighting and sliding glass canopy
- Great starter tank for those new to aquarium care
- Advanced, 3-stage filtration is hidden for enhanced aquarium viewing
Cons:
- Filter compartment can be difficult to access for setup and cleaning
- Water flow is strong and can make feeding difficult
- Black material on the back of the tank can peel and damage easily
- The black plastic cover for the filter compartment is not designed well and can shift easily.
- Filtration may not be up to par for some users.
- The glass lid can show fingerprints and splash back from the water in the tank.
Fluval Flex 9-gallon Aquarium Kit
You’ll love the bold design and customizable LED lighting of the Fluval Flex 9-gallon Aquarium Kit – it’s the perfect addition to your home or office space. The curved front design adds a unique touch to your aquatic display, while the 7500K LED lamp supports plant growth and enhances fish colors with fully adjustable White + RGB LEDs for endless color blends. The LED remote can control fun special effects like fading cloud cover or lightning bolts.
But the Fluval Flex isn’t just about looks – it also has a powerful 3-stage filtration system for superior water quality, with oversized mechanical, chemical, and biological media included. The multi-directional dual outputs allow for customized water flow, and the hidden rear filter compartment and stylish honeycomb wrap conceals the water line and sides of the rear compartment. It’s even great for betta fish, though you may need additional accessories to adjust the filter output for smaller aquatic creatures.
However, some customers have reported issues with the LED lights and remote malfunctioning. Additionally, the lid is not attached by hinges and may not be secure for smaller aquatic creatures.
Product Specs:
- Product Name: Fluval Flex Aquarium Kit, White, 9 Gallon
- Dimensions: 16.2 x 14.8 x 13.7 inches
- Weight: 20.5 pounds
- Lighting: 7500K LED lamp with fully adjustable White + RGB LEDs
- Filtration: 3-stage with oversized mechanical, chemical, and biological media
- Water Flow: Multi-directional dual outputs with customized flow
- Special Effects: LED remote control with fun effects like fading cloud cover and lightning bolts
Pros:
- The bold curved front design adds a unique touch to the aquatic display
- Customizable LED lighting enhances plant growth and fish colors
- Powerful 3-stage filtration system for superior water quality
- Multi-directional dual outputs allow for customized water flow
- Hidden rear filter compartment and stylish honeycomb wrap conceals water line and sides of the rear compartment
Cons:
- LED lights and remote may malfunction
- Hinges do not attach the lid and may not be secure for smaller aquatic creatures.
- It may require additional accessories to adjust filter output for smaller aquatic creatures.
Fluval Spec 5-gallon tank
The Fluval Spec 5-gallon tank is a perfect fit for those who want a small aquarium that packs a punch. It has a powerful 3-stage filtration system that ensures unparalleled water clarity. The mechanical, chemical, and biological media work together to keep the water clean and healthy for your fish. The tank also features a high-output LED lighting system with 37 bulbs, producing 821 lumens and a 7000K color temperature. This lighting system enhances the beauty of your aquarium and promotes plant growth.
Overall, the Fluval Spec 5-gallon tank is an excellent option for those who want a small aquarium that is easy to set up and maintain. Here are the product specs, pros, and cons of this tank:
Product Specs:
- Tank construction: Etched glass with high-quality aluminum trim
- Filtration capability: Powerful 3-stage system with oversized mechanical, chemical, and biological media
- Lighting system: High output 7000K LED with 37 bulbs, total output of 821 lumens and 7000K color temperature
- Capacity: 5-gallon tank capacity with a water pump output of 55-80 US Gal/h (210-300 L/h)
- Suitable for micro/nano environments and not recommended for fish that produce large amounts of waste
Pros:
- Sleek and modern design
- Powerful 3-stage filtration system for unparalleled water clarity
- High output LED lighting system promotes plant growth and enhances the beauty of your aquarium
- Easy to set up and maintain
- Suitable for micro/nano environments
Cons:
- Not suitable for fish that produce large amounts of waste
- The tank cannot be filled to the top because the separator between the pump well and the filter compartment is shorter than the rest of the tank walls.
- Lid is a thin but stiff clear plastic with grooves in the corners for peg legs.
Tetra Crescent Aquarium Kit 5 gallons
If you want to add a touch of elegance to your home or office with a small aquarium that doesn’t take up too much space, then the Tetra Crescent Aquarium Kit might be the perfect choice for you. With its unique curved-front design and seamless viewing experience, this kit comes with a 5-gallon capacity, making it suitable for one goldfish or up to three community tropical fish. It’s a great option for beginners or those who prefer low-maintenance setups.
The Tetra Crescent Aquarium Kit includes a Tetra Whisper Internal Power Filter that keeps the tank clean and provides a healthy environment for your pet fish. The bright-white energy-efficient LED lights are hidden inside the low-profile black cover, making them a visually appealing addition to your home or office. However, it’s important to note that the LED lights may burn out quickly and the lid may not fit properly, which could lead to potential issues down the line. The included filter may also be too strong for betta or shrimp, and the all-plastic feel may not be as durable as a glass aquarium.
Lastly, it’s important to note that the lid shape limits replacement options and the tank angles may cause reflection stress for fish. Despite the cons, this aquarium kit is a great value for its price and is recommended for those who are looking for a budget-friendly option.
Product Specs:
- Tank size: 5 gallons (15 inches x 9 inches x 11 inches)
- Tank shape: Curved-front crescent-shaped
- Suitable for: One goldfish or up to three community tropical fish
- Includes: Tetra Whisper Internal Power Filter
- Lights: Bright-white energy-efficient LED lights are hidden inside the low-profile black cover
- Tank material: Seamless for unobstructed viewing of the underwater environment
- It does not include a heater
Pros:
- The unique curved-front design offers a seamless viewing experience.
- Suitable for beginners or those who prefer low-maintenance setups
- Comes with a Tetra Whisper Internal Power Filter to keep the tank clean and provide a healthy environment for pet fish
- Bright-white energy-efficient LED lights make for a visually appealing addition to any space
- Great value for its price
Cons:
- LED lights may burn out quickly
- The lid may not fit properly.
- All-plastic feel may not be as durable as a glass aquarium.
- Included filter may be too strong for betta or shrimp
- Lid shape limits replacement options
- Tank angles may cause reflection stress for fish.
Fluval Betta Premium Aquarium kit
Step up your aquarium game with the Fluval Betta Premium Aquarium kit. It boasts a custom filtration system and a natural soft glow LED lighting, creating a relaxing underwater oasis for your pet Betta.
The kit includes all necessary media for up to 6-stage cleaning, ensuring maximum water quality and clarity. The gentle intake features multiple slots over a large area to help slow water entry and protect delicate Betta fins. At the same time, the diffusion chamber disperses flow and polishes water during the final stage of filtration to mimic clean, slow-moving currents of indigenous Betta habitats.
In addition to its advanced filtration system, the Fluval Betta Premium Aquarium kit also comes with a fully integrated pre-set 10W heater that consistently maintains a Bettas ideal tropical water temperature (78°F / 26°C). The natural soft glow LED lighting is energy efficient and creates a relaxed atmosphere to simulate naturally shaded Betta environments.
While the tank is not recommended for beginners, those with some knowledge of aquarium maintenance and repair will appreciate the high-quality features of this kit.
Product Specs:
- Product Name: Fluval Betta Premium Aquarium Kit, 2.6 Gallon
- Custom Betta filtration with up to 6-stage cleaning for maximum water quality and clarity, all necessary media included (mechanical, chemical, biological)
- The gentle intake features multiple slots over a large area to help slow water entry and protect delicate Betta fins.
- The diffusion Chamber disperses flow and polishes water during the final stage of filtration to mimic clean, slow-moving currents of indigenous Betta habitats.
- Natural soft glow LED lighting is energy efficient and creates a relaxed atmosphere to simulate naturally shaded Betta environments.
- Fully integrated pre-set 10W heater consistently maintains a Bettas ideal tropical water temperature (78°F / 26°C)
Pros:
- Advanced filtration system for maximum water quality and clarity
- Natural soft glow LED lighting creates a relaxing atmosphere
- Fully integrated pre-set 10W heater maintains ideal water temperature
- Designed specifically for Betta fish
- Sleek and modern design
Cons:
- It is not recommended for beginners as it requires some aquarium maintenance and repair knowledge.
- Some customers have reported receiving damaged items upon delivery (but the seller provides prompt refunds or replacements)
- Small size may limit the number of fish that can be kept in the tank.
Fluval Vista Freshwater Aquarium Kit
Now, let’s look at the Fluval Vista Freshwater Aquarium Kit. If you’re looking for a larger tank with an impressive design, this 16-gallon aquarium might be just what you need.
With its panoramic, bent-glass design, the Vista will be a stunning addition to any room in your home. But it’s not just the aesthetics that make this kit stand out.
The Fluval Vista has a range of features, making it a great option for hobbyists of all levels. The AquaClear 30 clip-on filter with a multi-stage cleaning process and included Fluval heater make maintenance a breeze, while the LED lighting with several touch settings and timer (sold separately) allows you to customize the environment for your fish. Plus, with the LCD thermometer, fishnet, and water conditioner, you’ll have everything you need to start.
Product Specs:
- Dimensions: 24′ wide, 15′ deep (including filter on back), 16.75′ tall (including filter slightly above aquarium lid)
- Large 16 gallon capacity
- Quality AquaClear hang-on-back filter with three types of filtration
- Quiet filter
- Hinged lid for easy cleaning and maintenance
- LED lighting with several touch settings and timer (sold separately)
- Curved front sides
- Thick glass
- Sustains low/medium light plants
- No rear sump compartments that are difficult to clean
- Bottom plastic frame means no leveling mat needed
- Clear rear glass
Pros:
- Panoramic, bent-glass design is visually stunning
- Includes AquaClear 30 filter and Fluval heater for easy maintenance
- LED lighting with touch settings and timer (sold separately) allows for customization
- Large 16 gallon capacity
- No rear sump compartments makes cleaning easier
- Thick glass and bottom plastic frame provide durability and stability
- Suitable for a betta sorority with live plants
Cons:
- Curved sides may distort the view a bit
- LED light is subject to condensation due to its proximity to the water
- Some users have reported issues with the filter not sitting level and the intake tube being too strong for smaller fish.
Hygger Horizon 8 Gallon LED Glass Aquarium Kit for Starters
You’ll love the unique curved design and 3D rockery background of the Hygger Horizon 8 Gallon LED Glass Aquarium Kit. It’s perfect for beginners looking to add a stunning aquatic feature to their home.
The kit comes with a 7W power filter pump that is super quiet and durable, making it perfect for a small space. The colored LED aquarium light has an external digital controller, letting you set the lighting time to 3, 6, or 12 hours. You can also adjust the light brightness from 100% to 10% with 5 brightness levels. The light modes include White LEDS, Blue+white+red LEDS, and Red+ blue LEDS, giving you various options to create the perfect aquatic environment for your small animals.
The Hygger Horizon 8 Gallon LED, Glass Aquarium Kit, has a unique convex arc curve shape and an undetachable 3D background decor, making it a stunning addition to any room. The tank size is 19 L x 11.8 W x 9.6 H, with a total tank volume of 8 gallons, which can hold 6 gallons of water.
The kit also comes with multi-protection packing, which includes 3 layers of packing with excellent cushion to ensure the tank arrives in perfect condition. However, there are a few drawbacks to this kit. The rock feature seems to be made of styrofoam or a styrofoam-like material, and the curved front face traps many tiny air bubbles. Additionally, there is no privacy wrapping during shipping, and the tank may get dirty quickly.
Product Specs:
- 7W 110GPH internal power filter pump
- Colored led aquarium light (DC12V/18W) with extendable brackets
- 8-gallon glass tank with a decorative 3D rockery mountain background
- Tank size: 19 L x 11.8 W x 9.6 H
- Lighting time can be set to 3, 6, or 12 hours
- Light brightness can be adjusted from 100% to 10% with 5 levels of brightness
- White LEDS, Blue+white+red LEDS, and Red+ blue LEDS light modes
Pros:
- Unique convex arc curve shape and 3D rockery background decor
- Super quiet and durable 7W power filter pump
- Colored LED aquarium light with external digital controller and multiple lighting modes
- Multi-protection packing to ensure tank arrives in good condition
Cons:
- Rock feature seems to be made of styrofoam or a styrofoam-like material
- Curved front face traps many tiny air bubbles
- Tank may get dirty quickly and require frequent cleaning
Features and Benefits of Small Aquariums
What makes small aquariums so appealing? These pint-sized underwater worlds offer many benefits for any home or office space. Not only do they save space, but they also provide a unique and visually stunning indoor decor idea. Small aquariums are also perfect for low-maintenance options, as they require less water, fewer fish, and less equipment.
Here are 4 reasons why small aquariums are perfect for any space:
- They’re great stress relievers. The calming effect of watching fish swim can help reduce anxiety and stress in both adults and children.
- They’re perfect for small spaces. Small aquariums occupy less space than larger ones, making them ideal for apartments, offices, or dorm rooms.
- They’re low maintenance. Small aquariums require less water and equipment, making them easier to maintain than larger aquariums.
- They offer a wide variety of fish compatibility. Small aquariums offer diverse aquatic life that can thrive in smaller environments, from tiny shrimp to colorful betta fish.
Incorporating a small aquarium into your home or office space can bring peace and tranquility. But before you dive in, it’s important to be aware of some tips and warnings to ensure the safety and well-being of your aquatic pets.
Tips and Warnings
To ensure the safety and well-being of your aquatic pets, there are important tips and warnings to keep in mind when setting up and maintaining your underwater world.
One common mistake that many new aquarium owners make is overstocking their tanks. Remember that the bio load of your fish determines how many can be kept in the tank. Some fish produce more waste and require more space.
Another important aspect to consider is the filtration system. The filter helps to remove waste and debris from the water and is crucial to keeping your fish healthy. Choose the appropriate filter for your tank size and fish species.
Additionally, lighting options are important for your fish’s health and the growth of live plants in the aquarium. Be sure to research the lighting needs of your specific fish and plants.
Water changes are also a crucial part of maintaining a healthy aquarium. Regular water changes can help to remove excess waste and prevent harmful toxins from building up in the water.
Finally, when selecting live plants for your tank, remember that some species require specific lighting and water conditions. Research the needs of the plants you are interested in and choose accordingly.
As you begin to set up and maintain your small aquarium, keep these tips and warnings in mind. By avoiding common mistakes and providing the proper care for your aquatic pets, you can create a beautiful and healthy underwater world for them to thrive in.
Now, let’s move on to creative ideas for decorating your small aquarium.
Creative Ideas for Decorating Small Aquariums
Now that you better understand the dos and don’ts of small aquariums, it’s time to get creative with their decoration! You can make your small aquarium a true work of art with the right DIY decorations, plant options, color schemes, unique substrates, and lighting options.
One of the easiest ways to add personality to your aquarium is by incorporating DIY decorations. From painted rocks to homemade caves, there are plenty of ways to create unique pieces that will help make your aquarium stand out.
You can also add character to your aquarium by experimenting with different plant options. From moss balls to java ferns, plenty of low-maintenance plant options will add texture and color to your aquarium.
To make your small aquarium pop, you should consider playing with different color schemes and unique substrates. For example, you could use black sand to create a stunning contrast against brightly colored fish. You could also incorporate colorful rocks or shells to enhance the look of your aquarium further.
Finally, don’t forget about lighting options! From LED lights to natural sunlight, the right lighting can help bring out the beauty of your aquarium.
As you experiment with different decoration options, don’t forget to keep your fish’s needs in mind. Avoid adding anything that could harm their health or create an uncomfortable living environment.
With the right balance of creativity and practicality, you can create a small aquarium that is both beautiful and functional.
Next, we’ll explore some tips for maintaining your small aquarium regularly.
Tips for Maintaining Small Aquariums
So, you’ve decided to take on the challenge of maintaining a mini aquatic ecosystem. Congratulations, you’re in for a wild ride!
But before you get too excited, it’s important to remember that keeping a small aquarium requires regular maintenance to ensure the health and happiness of your fishy friends.
First and foremost, water quality is key. It’s important to test the water regularly and ensure the pH, ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels are all within a safe range for your specific fish species.
A feeding schedule is also crucial to prevent overfeeding and keep the water from becoming polluted. A general rule of thumb is to feed small amounts once or twice daily and remove any uneaten food after a few minutes.
A cleaning routine is also essential. It’s recommended to do a partial water change once a week, removing about 10-20% of the water and replacing it with fresh, dechlorinated water. In addition, regular cleaning of the aquarium walls, decorations, and filters will help maintain a healthy environment for your fish.
Plant selection and fish compatibility are other important factors when maintaining a small aquarium. Adding live plants can not only enhance the aesthetic of the tank but also help with water filtration. Choosing plants compatible with your fish and their specific needs is important.
Additionally, researching the compatibility of different fish species is crucial to prevent aggression and ensure a peaceful community within the tank.
Maintaining a small aquarium can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it requires commitment and attention to detail. By prioritizing water quality, establishing a feeding and cleaning routine, and carefully selecting plants and fish, you can create a thriving aquatic ecosystem for your little underwater friends.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve made it to the end of our article on the 7 best small aquariums. We hope you found this guide useful in choosing the perfect tank for your aquatic pets.
Don’t you love how these miniature aquariums can add a touch of serenity to any room? It’s like having a tiny ocean in your home without pesky sharks and jellyfish.
But let’s not forget with great power comes great responsibility. Maintaining a small aquarium requires diligence and patience. It’s not all fun and games, folks.
In all seriousness, having a small aquarium can be a rewarding experience for you and your aquatic pets. Your fish will thrive in their cozy little home with the right care and attention.
You must clean the tank regularly, monitor water quality, and feed your fish appropriately. It’s like having a high-maintenance girlfriend, except you can’t break up with your fish when things get tough.
So buy that mini aquarium and bring some tranquility into your life. Don’t forget to care for your fish; they might swim away to find a more responsible owner.