The choices of home aquariums are many. Home aquarium kits come with all that you need to create an optimal water home for your fish.
There are a number of factors involved in making the right choice to buy the best aquarium for your fish. So we went on a fishing expedition and reeled in the best 10 home aquariums to ease your decision-making process.
Comparison Table
| PRODUCT | FEATURES | LATEST PRICE |
|---|---|---|
1. MarineLand 5 Gallon Portrait Glass LED Aquarium Kit  |
| Check Price |
2. Betta Fish Starter Kit  |
| Check Price |
3. Boutique Betta Rimless Low Iron Glass Aquarium Tank  |
| Check Price |
4. Hygger Horizon 8 Gallon LED Glass Aquarium Kit for Starters  |
| Check Price |
5. MarineLand Contour Glass Aquarium Kit with Rail Light  |
| Check Price |
6. Fluval Spec III Aquarium Kit, 2.6-Gallon  |
| Check Price |
7. Marina CUBUS Glass Betta Kit  |
| Check Price |
8. Tetra 20 Gallon Complete Aquarium Kit  |
| Check Price |
9. Fluval Spec V Aquarium Kit, 5-Gallon, White  |
| Check Price |
| 10. Aqueon 100527256 Fish Tank Aquarium LED Kit, 10 Gallon |
| Check Price |
Our Best Home Aquarium For 2020 Reviews and Comparisons
1. MarineLand 5 Gallon Portrait Glass LED Aquarium Kit
Product Highlights
This five-gallon curved glass aquarium kit is not only a home for your fish, but it is also a visually appealing addition to your home decor.
An LED lighting system that provides your tank with natural daylight and moonlight settings combined with the visual ascetics of its rounded corners offers you a beautiful view of your fish from many sides.
Features
- Rounded corners and clear glass canopy offer multiple viewing angles
- 3-stage filtration system includes a Rite-Size Z Cartridge Marineland Bio-Foam, and an adjustable flow filter pump
- Sliding glass canopy for easy access to the tank
What We Like About MarineLand 5 Gallon Portrait Glass LED Aquarium Kit
This easy-to-assemble kit is expertly designed and easy to maintain. The white LEDs create a shimmering light in the water that imitates the underwater effect of sunlight, and the blue LEDs emit a relaxing moonlight glow.
The unique glass canopy slides to the back of the aquarium to allow for easy feeding. The aquarium is well protected to prevent fish from jumping out or cats jumping in.
What We Don’t Like About MarineLand 5 Gallon Portrait Glass LED Aquarium Kit
The plastic cover for the rear compartment is flimsy and ill-fitting. The LED light is fairly bright but insufficient for growing any decent live plants.
The rear compartment provides plenty of room for a multi-stage filtration system but is instead restricted to standard carbon cartridges.
PROS
- Filter is silent
- Movable output nozzle from filter
- All lines and cords are hidden
- Small footprint on table/desk
CONS
- Base is cheap plastic, not attached to tank
- Current may be too strong for some fish
2. Betta Fish Starter Kit – Tetra LED Cube Kit Fish Aquarium, GloFish Artificial Plant, Tetra Test Strips, Tetra Food, Tetra Aquarium Bacteria
Product Highlights
GloFish Betta Leaf Fish Artificial Plants—With GloFish Betta Leaf Fish Artificial Plants, you can give your betta fish a stress-free place to rest and relax. The leaf gives you two looks in one. It looks natural under a white LED, but turn on your blue LED lights and the leaf looks fluorescent.
Tetra LED Cube Kit Fish Aquarium, 3-gal—The Tetra LED Cube Shaped Fish Aquarium provides everything you need to set up a modern new home for your fish. The compact, 10-inch square tank fits almost anywhere and is made of virtually unbreakable plastic.
Features
- Tetra LED Cube Kit Fish Aquarium
- GloFish Artificial Plant
- Tetra Test Strips
- Tetra Aquarium Bacteria
- Tetra Food
What We Like About Tetra LED Cube Kit Fish Aquarium
The Tetra LED Cube Kit Fish Aquarium is a great option for those looking for a stylish, modern aquarium that is also low maintenance. The LED lighting provides bright, natural–looking lighting and the filter system is easy to maintain. The included heater and thermometer add convenience and peace of mind, while the top–access feeding hole is a nice touch. The tank is easy to set up and the included instructions make it simple to get started.
What We Don’t Like About Tetra LED Cube Kit Fish Aquarium
The main downside to the Tetra LED Cube Kit Fish Aquarium is its price. It is quite expensive compared to other aquariums, and it may not be worth the cost for some people. Additionally, the LED lights are not adjustable, so they may not be suitable for all aquariums. Finally, some users have reported that the LED lights can be too bright and can be difficult to dim.
PROS
- stylish and modern aquarium
- LED lighting system
- includes a 3–stage filtration system
CONS
- quite expensive
- LED lights are not adjustable.
3. Boutique Betta Rimless Low Iron Glass Aquarium Tank
Product Highlights
Boutique Betta’s 2.1 gallon (7.9 liter) low-iron glass rimless tank gives this aquarium higher optical clarity. This durable and sleek tank is of the highest level of quality and is pleasing to the eye.
The glass thickness is 3/16 inches (5mm) constructed of high strength clear silicone.
Features
- 20 x 20 x 20 cm cube tank
- Glass thickness 5mm
- Standard 90° jointed seams
- Low iron optical grade glass
What We Like About Boutique Betta Rimless Low Iron Glass Aquarium Tank
A quality built aquarium with optimal lighting and a high functioning filter. The digital display aids in keeping track of everything that is going on.
Everything is already put together. Just rinse it out or use a towel to wipe it out.
What We Don’t Like About Boutique Betta Rimless Low Iron Glass Aquarium Tank
Power chords for the heater cannot be laid out neatly through the lid so it will not look visually appealing on the side.
Filter intake holes are large enough to suck up any nano fish (a screen over the intake should address this concern).
An intake screen has been found missing from the package.
PROS
- Sturdy and well built
- Perfectly sized for a desk piece
- Great for a planted shrimp
CONS
- Tanks is too small for a betta
- Current is too strong for betta and small fish
4. Hygger Horizon 8 Gallon LED Glass Aquarium Kit for Starters
Product Highlights
Hygger’s 8-gallon curved glass fish tank kit is suited for freshwater or saltwater aquariums. A great decor addition to your home or office.
Included is everything an aquarium starter kit provides: one 8 gallon glass tank, 3D background decor, one power filter pump, and one strip aquarium LED light.
Features
- 8 gallon glass fish tank with a distinct convex arc curve shape.
- Decorative 3D rockery mountain background.
- Led light is DC12V/18W, with extendable brackets, length can be adjusted from 0 to 19 inch.
- The aquarium power filter is 7W 110GPH, for 2-8 gallon tank use.
What We Like About Hygger Horizon 8 Gallon LED Glass Aquarium Kit for Starters
Easy to set up and maintain, this glass fish tank does not need a special stand. A cushion pad sticks on the bottom to prevent sliding.
The 3D textured rock background insert includes an internal canister type filter that can either be set to flow like a waterfall off the “rocks”, or a slow trickle.
The LED has sliding brackets easy to use wired and remotely. The lighting time can be 3, 6 or 12 hours. Brightness is adjustable between 10-100% with 5 levels of light mode brightness.
What We Don’t Like About Hygger Horizon 8 Gallon LED Glass Aquarium Kit for Starters
The little sprayer arm with the nozzles repeatedly clogs. Half of the nozzles don’t work or stringy goo is found to come through.
It is very difficult to clean under the ledge. To keep the filter running optimally, it has to run strong, but that puts it at risk sucking up the fish.
The water evaporates really fast – down to 3 inches down, so you have to top off water levels.
PROS
- Suitable up to 10 mini fish and a small turtle or one betta
- Convex arc curve shaped glass that widens your view on the aquarium.
- LED settings offer many options
- Filter is quiet and durable, can work when the water depth is over 2.5inch
CONS
- Over time the aquarium looks dirty and algae appears
- Adding plants and decorations makes the tank smaller than desired
5. MarineLand Contour Glass Aquarium Kit with Rail Light
Product Highlights
A smart and attractive aquatic home. The featured curved glass combined with the LED lighting system that uses both bright white and blue LEDs shows off the aquarium in the best possible way in both daylight and moonlight settings.
The sleek, contour design of this kit hides the filtration and features a hinged light that allows for easy access to the tank.
Features
- Views from many angles due to the rounded corners and clear glass canopy
- LEDs produce a sunlight and moonlight glow effects
- Easy feeding and maintenance due to the hinged LED rail light and sliding glass canopy
- 3-stage filtration provides a clean and healthy aquatic environment
What We Like About MarineLand Contour Glass Aquarium Kit with Rail Light
The 3-stage filtration system includes:
-Mechanical filtration using filter cartridges screens out dirt and debris and the molded ribbed back maximizes the water-to-carbon contact.
-Chemical filtration – activated carbon aids in removing odors, discoloration, and impurities.
-Biological filtration – Bio-Foam offers a 3D area that cultivates aerobic bacteria, which eliminate toxic ammonia and nitrites. It never needs replacement.
What We Don’t Like About MarineLand Contour Glass Aquarium Kit with Rail Light
The lights are not bright enough to keep plants thriving.
Filter compartment is almost impossible to clean. Filter motor is extremely difficult to access. Plastic cover for the filter compartment is flimsy, ill-fitting.
The back wall detached from the silicone. Standoffs are not secured to the back wall so the panel floats and bends easily.
PROS
- Sleek Design
- Energy effecient LED lighting system
- Glass canopy prevents fish from jumping out
- Easy Access
CONS
- Filter compartment takes up a sizable part of the 3 gallon tank
- Poor quality pump connectors
6. Fluval Spec III Aquarium Kit, 2.6-Gallon
Product Highlights
A modern-looking aquarium ideally suited for small areas including desktops and countertops. The Fluval Spec III comes with everything you need (except a heater) and is easy to clean and maintain.
The pump and filtration system are conveniently located in a separate chamber at one end of the aquarium to simplify maintenance.
Features
- 2.6 gallon Nano aquarium
- Powerful 3-stage (mechanical, chemical and biological) filtration system
- Etched-glass tank with aluminum trim
- Powerful 31 LED lighting system
What We Like About Fluval Spec III Aquarium Kit, 2.6-Gallon
Easy to set up and maintain, perfectly suited for little fish. LED lights are optimal for low maintenance of live plants.
If you find the current being too strong for your betta, adjust the flow of the current. If the low setting is not sufficient, add a pre-filter sponge.
What We Don’t Like About Fluval Spec III Aquarium Kit, 2.6-Gallon
Design flaws: poor quality base protrudes out an inch instead of being flush with glass at the bottom. Unstable and difficult to transport.
The filtering system’s media holder/sponge is too thick to allow a good flow. Water remains stagnant in the upper section of the compartment. The strong motor is not strong enough to create flow from such a thick media. Is also very noisy.
PROS
- Glass is easy to clean
- Filtration system and pump are not visible
- Filtration system keeps the water clear and fish healthy
- Tank can handle a lot of fish
CONS
- Inadequate instructions to aid in set up of tank
- The pump stopped working after 6 months, replacement parts very expensive
- The tank does not filter properly at all, causing serious water quality issues
7. Marina CUBUS Glass Betta Kit
Product Highlights
Ideal kit for beginner aquarists, the Marina Cubus Betta Kit has everything you need for a comfortable aquatic setting for your bettas. An attractive glass aquarium adds a splash of style to home or office.
The soothing elements of this kit offer you an opportunity to take relaxing breaks from the stresses of everyday life. A small piece of tranquility to add to any room.
Features
- 0.9 gallon glass aquarium
- Energy efficient clip-on LED light unit
- Includes a breathing hole
- 5.9 inches long, 5.9 inches wide, 5.9 inches high
What We Like About Marina CUBUS Glass Betta Kit
A clean and aesthetically pleasing looking tank. The tank is made of glass instead of plastic, plexiglass or acrylic with solid seals.
Well-fitted lid with an air hole on top which makes it easy to feed the fish. LED lamps help plants grow progressively over time.
What We Don’t Like About Marina CUBUS Glass Betta Kit
Some tanks arrived with glue stuck to the front and some scratches. Not a good permanent home due to inadequate space for a healthy normal betta.
The lid is plastic and not secured.
PROS
- Pedestal base protects surfaces from being damaged
- Energy efficient clip-on flexible LED light unit brings out the Betta’s bright colors
- Suitable environment for Bettas
CONS
- Algae grows easily on the silicone. (easy fix with a quick scrub)
- Poor quality LED lights
8. Tetra 20 Gallon Complete Aquarium Kit
Product Highlights
Dive into the Tetra 20 Gallon Color Fusion Aquarium kit, perfect for the aquarist. The unique vibrant scenery is an excellent introduction into this exciting hobby. A 20 gallon tank ideal to comfortably contain multiple fish.
Features
- 20 Glass gallon Aquarium
- Aquarium hood
- UL Heater
- Tetra Whisper 20 Filter
- Color Fusion Universal Color Changing LED
- Two Wonderland Plant Multipacks
- Blooming White Anemone
What We Like About Tetra 20 Gallon Complete Aquarium Kit
Every aquarium is and you can get support from TetreCare experts who are happy to guide you through this exciting undertaking.
LED lights transform your aquarium as the colors change. The hood brings a natural daytime effect to the scene. Settings can be customized. Tetra plants come to life under the glow of Color Fusion LED.
The anemones sway with your filter current as well as give your fish a place to hide and relax.
the Tetra HT 20 Heater, providing a reliable heat to keep your fish happy and healthy.
What We Don’t Like About Tetra 20 Gallon Complete Aquarium Kit
The light stopped working after 9,000 hours compared to others that are guaranteed to last 50,000 hours.
Filter and heater do not work well. The hood is not very strong, and the light shines only half the brightness that is needed.
PROS
- Easy to install
- Tank built to last
- Quiet filter
- A hinged lid makes feeding and cleaning easy
CONS
- Filter and heater underperform
- Scratches have been found on some tanks
9. Fluval Spec V Aquarium Kit, 5-Gallon, White
Product Highlights
Fluval’s modern aquarium suits small areas like desktops in the office and countertops. The kit includes a 5 gallon etched-glass aquarium with aluminum trim offering both flair and practicality.
Features
- 5 gallon nano aquarium
- Etched-glass tank with aluminum trim
- Powerful 37 LED Lighting System
- Filtration system that includes foam block, activated carbon and BioMax bio rings
- Powerful circulation pump with adjustable output nozzle
What We Like About Fluval Spec V Aquarium Kit, 5-Gallon, White
Fluval’s 3-stage filtration system reliably provides clean and clear water.
The overhanging 37 powerful LED lamp lighting system provides brilliant illumination for the aquatic world.
What We Don’t Like About Fluval Spec V Aquarium Kit, 5-Gallon, White
Tank’s narrow size makes it harder to clean, consider a small siphon for this tank. The light covers the entire open area which limits space for feeding.
The current flow is too strong for the fish. Customers have reported the tank leaking.
PROS
- Ideal for narrow spaces like kitchen countertops and work space
- Bright LEDs, lighting for day and night will support plants
- Clean look with no filters hanging off the back of the tank
- A dedicated space for the heater near the hidden pump
CONS
- Current is too strong for betta, a sponge might slow it down
- Tank susceptible to leaking.
- Lights expire too soon
10. Aqueon 100527256 Fish Tank Aquarium LED Kit, 10 Gallon
Product Highlights
A fully equipped haven for fish is what the Aqueon 10 gallon fish tank kit offers. Complete with all of the high-quality components you need for your fish’s watery world.
The energy-saving LED lighting set up in the low-profile hood offers total illumination.
Features
- 10 gallon glass aquarium
- Low profile LED full hood
- QuietFlow 10 LED PRO power filter with medium cartridge
- 50W preset heater
- Premium fish food included
- Water conditioner
- Fish net
- Stick-on thermometer
What We Like About Aqueon 100527256 Fish Tank Aquarium LED Kit, 10 Gallon
Low profile full hood contains vibrant cool white LED lighting. QuietFlow 10 LED PRO power filter has a red LED light that flashes to indicate when it’s time to change the cartridge – no guesswork for you.
Preset heater maintains a constant 78 degrees, the ideal temperature for tropical fish.
What We Don’t Like About Aqueon 100527256 Fish Tank Aquarium LED Kit, 10 Gallon
The filter can make a very loud grinding noise. The filter current is too strong for the fish to swim and can get sucked up into the filter.
PROS
- Complete guide to walk you through the setup process
- Aqueon QuietFlow LED PRO filter makes maintenance easy
- Convenient feeding door in the front
CONS
- May leak after 2-3 months.
Final Verdict
These home aquariums address varied preferences and needs for the aquarist, even if you are a beginner. From this selection you have many features to choose from to provide a wonderful aquatic environment for your fish.
I’m using MarineLand 5 Gallon Portrait Glass LED Aquarium Kit and I love it. The filter is noise-free and easy to replace. However, the lid is prone to breaking easily.