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10 Best Aquarium Filters 2025 in the UK

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Fluval 207 External Filter

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,227
Filter Type
Noise Level
Maintenance Requirements
Filter Type
The filtration is impressively effective, making fish seem happier with the cleaner water.
Noise Level
The pump operates nearly silently, with robust features that enhance durability and ease of use.
Maintenance Requirements
Cleaning is remarkably simple; just disconnect, remove, and rinse—no spills involved.
Filtration Stages
Water quality is excellent, with the filter maintaining a healthy and clean environment.

The Fluval 207 External Filter is a robust option for aquarium enthusiasts, particularly those with fish tanks. One of its standout features is the Fluval eTEC construction, which employs an advanced design for efficient filtration. With a powerful motor, the filter delivers consistent pumping power and pressure, ensuring effective water circulation. Its flow rate of 780 liters per hour makes it suitable for medium-sized tanks, and it can handle up to 220 liters of liquid volume, enhancing its versatility.

Noise level is a critical consideration for many users, and the Fluval 207 addresses this by operating up to 25% quieter than previous models, thanks to its precision-crafted pump. This makes it a more pleasant choice for those who keep aquariums in living spaces or bedrooms. The filter also includes new ergonomic AquaStop valves that are designed for smoother operation, adding to user convenience.

The unique vertical pre-filter cartridge is a notable feature, offering more surface area for mechanical filtration, which is vital for maintaining clean water. Its independent access allows for easier maintenance, a plus for those seeking low-effort upkeep. However, there are areas where some users might find it less appealing. While it is designed for easy maintenance, first-time users may require some time to get accustomed to its setup and operation. Additionally, the item weight of 1.5 kg might be a bit heavy for smaller or more fragile setups.

In terms of compatibility, it is ideal for fish and covers all life stages, making it a flexible choice for various aquarium setups. Given its special features like ease of cleaning and durability, the Fluval 207 is a strong contender in the aquarium filters category, particularly for those prioritizing efficient and quiet operation.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,227
Filter Type
Noise Level
Maintenance Requirements
Filter Type
The filtration is impressively effective, making fish seem happier with the cleaner water.
Noise Level
The pump operates nearly silently, with robust features that enhance durability and ease of use.
Maintenance Requirements
Cleaning is remarkably simple; just disconnect, remove, and rinse—no spills involved.
Filtration Stages
Water quality is excellent, with the filter maintaining a healthy and clean environment.
#3

Fluval FX6 High Performance Canister Filter

Rating
9.9
Filter Type
Flow Rate
Filtration Stages
Filter Type
Possibly the best filter I've ever owned; easy to put together with filter baskets that are easy to remove.
Flow Rate
Great flow rate and super quiet, even with the television off you can't hear it.
Filtration Stages
Comes with all the media you need to get up and running, which is an added bonus!
Tank Size Compatibility
Despite its size, it fits under the aquarium with some adjustments, and it was easy to set up on my own.
Noise Level
Great flow rate and super quiet, even with the television off you can't hear it.
Maintenance Requirements
Set up and installed within 15 minutes, and already a huge difference in water quality.

The Fluval FX6 High Performance Canister Filter is an excellent choice for large aquariums, capable of handling tanks up to 1500 liters. Its standout feature is the impressive flow rate, processing up to 2130 liters per hour, ensuring efficient water circulation. The filter boasts advanced microchip technology that optimizes pump performance, making it smart and convenient. Its self-starting operation and automatic air removal every 12 hours add to its ease of use, eliminating common maintenance hassles. For those looking for a low-maintenance solution, the easy water change feature is a plus, as it does not require heavy lifting.

The filter includes removable and stackable media baskets that hold a significant amount of filtration media (1 gallon), preventing water bypass and enhancing the filtration process. However, the FX6’s size and weight, at 9.03 kg, mean it requires sufficient space and solid support. Potential buyers should consider the initial setup cost, which might be higher than other models. Maintenance appears straightforward but may require regular attention to optimize performance fully.

The Fluval FX6 is highly suitable for large aquarium owners seeking a powerful, intelligent, and relatively easy-to-manage filtration system, provided they have the space and are prepared for the initial investment.

Rating
9.9
Filter Type
Flow Rate
Filtration Stages
Filter Type
Possibly the best filter I've ever owned; easy to put together with filter baskets that are easy to remove.
Flow Rate
Great flow rate and super quiet, even with the television off you can't hear it.
Filtration Stages
Comes with all the media you need to get up and running, which is an added bonus!
Tank Size Compatibility
Despite its size, it fits under the aquarium with some adjustments, and it was easy to set up on my own.
Noise Level
Great flow rate and super quiet, even with the television off you can't hear it.
Maintenance Requirements
Set up and installed within 15 minutes, and already a huge difference in water quality.

Buying Guide for the Best Aquarium Filters

Choosing the right aquarium filter is crucial for maintaining a healthy and clean environment for your aquatic pets. The filter helps to remove debris, excess food, and harmful chemicals from the water, ensuring that your fish and plants thrive. When selecting an aquarium filter, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you pick the best fit for your specific needs.
Filter TypeThere are several types of aquarium filters, including hang-on-back (HOB), canister, sponge, and internal filters. Each type has its own advantages and is suitable for different aquarium setups. HOB filters are easy to install and maintain, making them ideal for beginners. Canister filters offer superior filtration and are great for larger tanks. Sponge filters are perfect for small tanks and breeding setups, as they provide gentle filtration. Internal filters are compact and fit inside the tank, making them suitable for small to medium-sized aquariums. Choose a filter type based on the size of your tank, the type of aquatic life you have, and your maintenance preferences.
Flow RateThe flow rate of a filter, measured in gallons per hour (GPH), indicates how much water the filter can process in an hour. This is important because it determines how effectively the filter can clean the water. For optimal filtration, the flow rate should be at least four times the volume of your aquarium. For example, a 20-gallon tank would need a filter with a flow rate of at least 80 GPH. Higher flow rates are better for larger tanks or tanks with a high bioload, while lower flow rates are suitable for smaller tanks or delicate species that prefer gentle water movement.
Filtration StagesAquarium filters typically offer three stages of filtration: mechanical, chemical, and biological. Mechanical filtration removes physical debris from the water, chemical filtration removes dissolved impurities, and biological filtration promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria that break down harmful waste. A good filter should provide all three stages to ensure comprehensive water purification. When choosing a filter, consider one that offers multi-stage filtration to maintain a balanced and healthy aquarium environment.
Tank Size CompatibilityFilters are designed to handle specific tank sizes, so it's important to choose one that matches the size of your aquarium. Using a filter that is too small for your tank can lead to inadequate filtration, while an oversized filter can create too much water movement, stressing your fish. Check the manufacturer's recommendations for tank size compatibility and select a filter that is appropriate for your aquarium's volume.
Noise LevelThe noise level of a filter can affect the overall enjoyment of your aquarium. Some filters operate more quietly than others, which can be important if your aquarium is located in a living room, bedroom, or office. Look for filters that are specifically designed to operate quietly if noise is a concern for you. Reading user reviews and product descriptions can help you gauge the noise level of different filters.
Maintenance RequirementsDifferent filters have varying maintenance requirements, which can affect how easy they are to clean and maintain. Some filters have easily accessible parts that can be quickly cleaned or replaced, while others may require more effort. Consider how much time and effort you are willing to invest in maintaining your filter. If you prefer low-maintenance options, look for filters that are known for their ease of maintenance.