As the holidays approach I’ve been thinking that I’d get one for my cousin. Let me show you the four I liked the best and why I choose the one I did.

Before I do that, let me just tell you a little story. It’s one that I’m sure you’ve run into before, too.

If you don’t have time to read the reviews, check it out right away this four picks.

OUR PICKS: BEST CANISTER FILTERS FOR 2017

As I mentioned before I was planning to buy a canister filter for my cousin.

Three months ago, she asked me for a favor. At that time she was very busy with her work, so she couldn’t pay attention to her aquarium.

“I can’t do this anymore”-she said to me.
“It’s starting to be a big challenge”
“I am spending too much time maintaining the tank”
“I just wanna relax and enjoy the view”
Can you help me and clean my aquarium?

As a more experienced fish keeper, I was glad to help her. But I didn’t expect to see an aquarium in such a bad shape. She had one of these internal filters, which may seem like a viable option, and sometimes is, but not for the size her tank is.

In order to help her to remove the fish waste, food residue, and excess debris that gathered in her tank, I need it to clean the whole aquarium.

At that time I had a DIY canister filter, that was doing its job great, but I didn’t like how it looked in my living room. If you ask me, it was unpleasant view. So buying a canister filter was part of my plans too.

Before I purchase the canister filter, I need it to done some research and find out what is the best external filter on the market. In the end, can you see yourself throwing away a couple hundreds of dollars before seeing the benefits that particular product can give?

I don’t think so.

Most of the time when people write canister filter reviews, they do that in the initial purchase and set up stage. That’s because in that way you can figure out what is working, is it something broken, or does the filter runs as it was advertised?

However, from personal experience, the difference between a good filter and a bad filter is above how it performs over time. In an ideal situation, very long time in which you don’ properly clean it or take care of it at all.

I always wanted to buy a canister filter for myself. I have already seen many canister filters in local shops, but never really took an action. I was amazed by its simplicity, yet enough powerful for maintaining a large fish tank.

However, when I saw for the first time the price of this products, I was shocked by the amount of money they were charging for this type of filters.

Even though those filters can do an excellent job, back then, the cost put me away.
But the desire to have one of these was so big, that eventually made me start researching where can I find it for the most affordable price.

Before we jump right on the reviews, let me just make a brief explanation of what canister filter is, how it works, and what benefits you can expect when you buy your first external canister filter. You can skip this part if you are already familiar with this information.

WHAT IS A CANISTER FILTER, AND HOW DOES A CANISTER FILTER WORK ?

It is an external aquarium filter that usually sits in the cabinet under your fish tank. Basically, it is just a vessel for the filter media trays. It has a power motor head, which job is to provide the water keep move and filtering through the media.

There are an intake valve and an outtake valve attached on the top of the canister.The water comes from the aquarium, goes to the bottom, and then the clean water is backed in the tank filtered out through the filter media. As you can see, it is a simple process.

Depends on the brand, you have several options of water flow direction:

• bottom to top
• top to bottom
• center out
• back to front
• inside out

However, most of the canister filters provide complete 3-stage filtration

There are three basic types of filtration.

Mechanical-larger particles, food residues, excess debris are removed through the mechanical strainers.

Chemical-water characteristics are changed by creating chemical reactions.

Biological– promoting bacterial growth to eliminate organic toxins, nitrite, and ammonia.

Before deciding which is the best external filter to buy, it is always a good idea to look for different types to narrow down your decision before purchasing.

WHY SHOULD I USE IT?

• I like the fact it sits out of site under your tank in the aquarium stand, so that way it doesn’t take so much space.
• it can be very convenient for larger tanks; aquariums that are populated with a lot of fish need better filtration because more fish produce more waste.
• they are easy to maintain, with replaceable parts
• smooth and silent running
• easy to prime
• not they only provide clean water, but they also maintain the oxygen at a safe level.

THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE YOU BUY CANISTER FILTER

If this is your first purchase of canister filter, it can be very confusing and overwhelming when you see all that different kinds of filters. I know for me it was.

So, how can you tell what is the best choice for you?

Firstly, you need to figure out what is the size of your aquarium?

Why is this so important?

I am glad you asked.

One of the key segments of the canister filter is the motor head. The motor head has one job; to push the water through the filter media and makes sure that all the water from the tank gets filtered at least 4 times of the tank size per hour.

For example:

If you have a 100-gallon aquarium you should go with a filter which motor head produce a flow rate of 400 gallons per hour.

However, the external canister filter doesn’t actually do any filtering.
It is a basically a form of water movement and a vessel for holders of filter media.

In fact, the filter media is the most important part of the canister filter. It’s what makes the tank clean and healthy environment for your fishes.

To summarize:

The two most important key parts you should consider it before buying your first canister filter are the flow rate per hour that canister can provide and the filter media that comes with it.

While most of the models come with all required media, feel free to purchase some additional media if you need it.

Our choice: Fluval External Power Filter Pre-Filter Media

What are some of the drawbacks of using a canister filter to be aware of?

The first thing that came to my mind when I started to research about these products is the price. Canister filters are not cheap. Their price varies from brand to brand, and the cheapest one is almost double the price of Hob filter.

If those numbers scare you (to be honest at the beginning I was scared, too) you can see it in this way.
You are buying a long term investment for the health of your fish. Your fish tank will look cleaner, healthier and all you’ll need to do, it’s to relax and enjoy the view.

Now, on to the four canister filters, I think are the best.

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       Fluval 406 external filter review

The Fluval series have been one of the most trusted and well-established brands on the market when it comes to an external canister fish tank filters.

As a part of the Hagen group of fish keeping products, they have done a fantastic job of offering a different range of external filters.

Based on the success of the others 5 series that were designed to achieve better filtration quicker, and maintenance quieter operation, the 06 series takes it just a little further with a couple of updates.

The 406 model provides complete, multi-stage filtration for aquariums up to 100 U.S gallons. One of the great new things about this model is they tried to make it more user-friendly.

It is much easier to set up, customize and maintain.

Another interesting fact about this model is it holds 35-50% more volume than other canisters of similar size.Practically you get a more powered filter which takes the same space as other filters.

The Fluval 406 has plenty of proven attributes that make it a leader in the industry.
Can be used both in freshwater and saltwater aquariums.

It is a quiet filter. This is one of the most important features on canister filters people are looking for. So, what are the other benefits this model can provide?

Sometimes it’s not very easy to disconnect the valves if you want to stop the water flow. In these situations, aquastopes valves come in handy. In this way, you can decrease the chances of creating a mess, or leaks, and just because of this feature.

Buying a Fluval 406 can add an excellent value to your fish tank.
The aquastope valve,the removable filter media, and the multi-stage filtration are a wise choice for consumers who are replacing their old canister filter.

PROS

• smooth and silent running
• provides excellent filtration for your aquarium(all three types of filtration)
• high-quality filter media
• solid built
• aquastop valves for better flow rate

CONS

• output nozzle is unstable; can be shaken and move around as a cause of strong water flow
• some users expressed concerns about leaking after several years of using this filter

What did customers not like about Fluval 406?

Well, there were customers who said that they had problems with the output nozzle;the water movement causes the nozzle to shake around.

Also, some expressed concern with the easy installation with the Fluval 406; the instructions were not so clear.

After a few months, however, they agreed that those problems are not an issue you should be overly concerned.

Overall impression

The Fluval 406 is a quality and dependable product. Multistage filtration, high motor technology, quite running, add to that aquastope valves and instant priming, and you get everything you wish for it.
If this is your first tank, and you want everything to be right the first time, then   this might be the best filter for you.

Your filter is the most important equipment in your aquarium, so why not choose an already approved brand on the market. You don’t want to go cheap on your filter if you want to maintain a clean and a happy environment for your fish.

Fluval 406 is an excellent filter for beginners, but also great for the more experienced fish hobbyist. You can’t go wrong if you choose this filter.

But after all, the final decision is yours.

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 Eheim Classic external filter review

One of the most used canister filters among fish enthusiast can surely call itself a legend of the external filters. It has been for over 3 decades on the market, proving its outstanding quality, consistent and reliable performance.

Many fish keepers recommend Eheim classic over any other filter. It is a popular product and there is a reason for that.

This filter is excellent value for the money. Anyone who has used it can confirm that Eheim classic models are worth every penny. A difference between a good filter and a bad filter is above all how it performs over time. My personal opinion is, the Eheim Classic belongs in the “good filters” basket.

A lot of the replacement parts are available either online or in the local pet shops, which is a big plus for this model. You won’t need to worry if something broke up, or it isn’t working the right way.

You are probably in overthinking mode, and may have doubts if it is worth to invest in canister filter over HOB filter. Maybe it is out of your budget, but don’t let the cost turn you away. I am sure that you won’t regret and be happier with Eheim over any HOB filter on the market.

When we are looking for a good external canister filter, one of the many considerations we take is the loudness of that filter. Nobody wants a sound of a chainsaw in his room. This is not the case with Eheim Classic.

Actually, this model is so quiet, you’ll not even notice that there is filter working under your aquarium.

Unlike some other filters on the market, this model doesn’t include a priming button. You have to manually prime the Eheim Classic.

This model is built from the best materials out there, with a purpose to last very long time without compromising the filter functionality. According to the many customers who have been used this model, this is the main feature that makes this canister last so long.

The Eheim Classic provides all three types of filtration, mechanical, chemical and biological. Unlike some other filters on the market, this canister doesn’t have the usual filter media trays.

The media that is included in Eheim Classic is the Eheim Substrat pro which provides biological filtration, and the Eheim Mech which provides a mechanical filtration.

What did customers not like about this filter?

Well, there were people who had doubts that it may be not so easy to clean it. But, I think that is not a big issue. If you properly read the manual and understand the instructions, then you can find an easy way to do it.

Also, some expressed concern with the easy installation with this model. However, reality is the that this model is very easy to set up. You will have some difficulties if you rely only on the English instructions.You’ll be fine if you are familiar with German.If not, don’t worry. Do it by yourself, you’ll see that it’s not such big deal.

After several months, however, most of them agreed that Eheim Classic is a reliable product, and can serve you well in years to come.

If you didn’t read the whole review here are summarized the pros and cons of this model.

PROS

• proven quality,used by millions of people who are into this hobby
• has been on the market for over 3 decades
• solid, robust built
• easy to clean, to maintain
• smooth and silent running
• the package provides a lot of accessories
• Excellent value for the money,
• reduce the energy consumption

CONS

• does not have a basket to put the media.
• the English instructions are not easy to follow.

Overall impression

Famous for his quality, decent price and high performance the Eheim Classic External filter can surely meet your expectations.

Approved by the fishing community, recommended by a lot of fish keepers, add to that excellent value for the money, and you get a perfect product suit your needs.

If you read some of the customers reviews, you’ll see that there are a big number of people who have been using this canister for years, without having any serious problems.

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Penn Plax Cascade 1000 canister filter review

The Pen Plax Cascade is one of the most highly rated canister filters among fish hobbyist. However, good as it is, it has some drawbacks.

Truth to be told, you don’t need to worry, because the benefits you will have are far beyond than the problems you can encounter. Based on the experience of other fishkeepers, this model provides excellent value for the money.

There are several types of this model.

Depends on of the size of your tank, you can choose which is adequate for you. And what is the difference between these models?

I am glad you asked!

The higher the model goes, the filtration per hour rises.
If you want more specific data here are some of the advertised models.

Cascade 500: ideal for tanks up to 30 gallons and has flow rate 115 gph
Cascade 700: ideal for tanks up to 65 gallons and has flow rate 185 gph
Cascade 1200: ideal for tanks up to 150 gallons and has flow rate 315 gph
Cascade 1500: ideal for tanks up to 200 gallons and has flow rate 350 gph

It is a heavy duty external aquarium canister filter.
The Pen Plax Cascade is a filter with high capacity.

It is used for fish tanks up to 100 US Gallons and has a flow rate 265 gallons per hour. This model offers a complete three-stage filtration, providing a clean and healthy natural environment for your aquatic pals.

The fine particulate matter is removed by the floss pad, while toxins and impurities in the water are removed by the activated carbon media.

While this is fine, the biological filtration is what makes the aquarium perfect little-balanced nature.To achieve that, in this model is included coarse sponge that makes an abundant surface area which promotes a bacterial growth.

The Pen Plax Cascade is easy to set up filter.

Maybe you will need more time if this is your first time setting up a canister, however, it will not take more than 20 minutes.

There a lot of positive feedback from the customers, when it comes to noises of this model. One of the positive features of this model is the self-push priming button.

What did customers not like about the Pen Plax Cascade?

Well, there were users who had some complaints about the difficulty of priming this filter. It can be quite difficult if this is your first use, however, some users claim that is lot easier if you first fill the canister with water.

Also, some expressed concerns that you can’t clean every individual part separately.

PROS

• high technology motor which provides excellent filtration
• quiet running
• can be used both on freshwater and saltwater tanks
• self-push priming button
• a lot of room to keep extra media

CONS

• the hoses must be cut sometimes ( don’t worry, they give you a ton of hose)

Overall impression

If we look at the big picture, then this model can add an extra quality to your tank. It’s reliable, compact, provides excellent filtration, and it is not very expensive compared with other filters from its range.

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Fluval Fx6 external filter review

If you are a fan of big fish tanks, then the Fluval fx6 might be the right deal for you. This is not an ordinary filter, and if you have a smaller tank, it might be a little overkill for you.

But, for you with big populated planted tanks, or for those who want to upgrade their previous filter, stick with me through the rest of this review, see the other benefits of Fluval fx6, and find out what this filter is capable of.

The Fluval fx6 with all its power and reliability can surely offer you a lot of new advanced features.

Let us see what are the most important benefits this model can provide.

This model comes as an upgrade to his predecessor the Fluval fx5.
There are not many improvements on the newer model, but they are all essential. Its phenomenal design and plenty of advanced features make this aquarium hobby so much easier and more enjoyable.

Great news for the new buyers. Fluval fx6 comes with all the essential filtering media you need. It is not necessary to purchase additional media. However if you want more media, you can check here.

If you are even half like me, you will appreciate the quiet running this filter have. Maybe not as quiet as some filters I mentioned before, but you will get used to it. My opinion is if your tank is not in your bedroom ( everyone needs a good night sleep, am I right) then you have nothing to worry about.

This is a monster filter, and when I say monster, I truly mean it. It can process and re-circulates a fully 563 US gallons of water per hour, which is excellent for producing cleaner and healthier results.

You know those situations when you have difficulties to disconnect the valves without creating a mess. Well, with the aquastopes valves those problems a long forgotten. You can separate the hose from the filter in just one step. Not to mention that you can regulate the water flow whenever you want.

Another very beneficial feature is the Click-fit Connector.
You might be wondering what is Click-fit Connector?
Well, those are connectors that are designed for quick set-up and leak-proof maintenance.

However, even tough these features are great, I think that what separates this model from rest of the other canister filters is the Smart Pump Technology.

Fluval Fx6 Smart Pump technology continually monitor the pump. In this way, the filter ensures maximum energy efficiency.

Also, the smart pump technology evacuates the air that may build up in the system. Every 12 hours the filter stops and the trapped air is released.
In this way, the filter ensures maximum filtration efficiency.

If you don’t have time to read the whole review here are the pros and cons.

PROS

• powerful motor that provides excellent filtration
• smart pump technology- maximum energy and filtration efficiency
• self-priming instant-start system
• multi-directional output nozzle
• clog-proof intake strainer

CONS

• the price is too expensive for a beginner

Overall impression

Well, what can I say?

This filter is perfect for larger fish tanks. It has a lot of advanced features, and it is way ahead of his competitors.

But the price is not for everyone. If you are a beginner, and you are setting up your first tank, this model might not be the right chose for you.

But if you have the budget, and you are willing to spend some more bucks on equipment, then I can say one thing.

Go for it.

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How to set up a canister filter?

Setting up a canister filter for an aquarium can be a difficult task to explain in just simple words. So I found excellent video how to do it step by step. I hope you’ll find it helpful.

How to make a canister filter for a fish tank?

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Canister filter FAQ

What is the best canister filter for a freshwater aquarium?

Based on my personal experience, you can’t really tell the difference which one is the best. They are all suitable for freshwater aquariums, they all have positive and negative attributes. Actually, is a matter of taste.What some may work well for me, not necessarily will work for you. Truth be told, all of the external filters I reviewed in this article can do an excellent job for your aquarium.

What is the best canister filter for a saltwater aquarium?

All of the filters reviewed in this post can be used for a reef tank. But, additional protein skimmer might be required in some situations.

What is the best canister filter for turtles?

If you have a smaller tank, let us say less than 10 gallons and only one turtle, you probably won’t need a canister filter. You can totally maintain your aquarium with regular water changes. It is not a big deal. However, we all know that aquatic turtles produce a lot of waste. For those with bigger turtles, and tanks larger than 10 gallons, additional filtration model is required.

How often should I clean my canister filter?

Well, to be honest with you, you should not worry too much about cleaning the canister filter
If you properly choose your filter media, set up the filter in a right way, then you shouldn’t worry too much about maintenance. Even it doesn’t require a lot of maintenance, you should probably check it from time to time.

What size of a canister filter do I need?

Every canister filter on the market, whatever brand is, is rated for fish tank size and output in gallons or liter per hour. Depends on of the size of your tank, you should get one that is adequate for you. Even if you have a smaller tank, you can’t go wrong getting one that has better flow rate.

What kind of media to use in the canister filter?

Most of the filters come with pre-packed filter media. That will work with the best performance in most basic aquariums. For additional media, you can check here.

Best canister filter for the money ?

If you are on tight budget, you have several options when it comes to which one is the best cheap canister filter. Some of the canister filters I reviewed in this article have a decent price. On the other hand, we all know that fishkeeping is a bit of an expensive hobby. After all, we all want to provide the best environment for our aquatic pets, and we’ll do everything it’s in our power. So don’t go Too cheap when you buy your first filter. You may encounter some problems later, eventually leading to buying a new canister some way on the road. You surely don’t want that.

Note: To ensure optimal and proper functioning of your external canister filter, regular maintenance is required.

Final decision and my recommendation

While my goal here isn’t to convince you that canister filter ownership is mandatory, it can be a useful thing, and might be helpful for you.

If you are ready to invest in a long-term acquisition, I can assure that you won’t regret. Your aquatic pals will be happier, the aquarium cleaner, and the homeostasis in the fish tank better.

There are a lot of brands on the market today and each one has it owns pros and cons, however, most of them will provide excellent filtration for your tank. Whatever canister filter you decided it to purchase, you’ll not make a mistake.

And finally, do you want to hear my recommendation?

Here it goes.

I went for FLUVAL 406 model. But that’s not mean that you should buy the same model. Choose whatever is adequate for your needs, what feels right, and you’ll be ok.

Image credit

However, before we jump in exploring the aquascaping world we need to cover the basics. One of the most important things for building a planted tank is finding a good substrate. But what is the best substrate for planted tank? We’ve done the research and here are the results.

What is Aquarium Substrate and Why It’s Important?

Aquarium substrate refers to the material you use to cover the bottom of your fish tank. For many people the aesthetic appeal is the most important thing, however, smart aquarist knows that creating a clean and stable environment for your fish and plants comes in first place.

The type of the aquarium you possess will determine the substrate you need. For instance, gravel is the most common used substrate in freshwater aquariums. There are several reasons why substrates are used in most aquariums.

First, the substrate you put to cover the bottom of your tank can be used as part of the biological filtration. Particles of the substrate serve as a surface area for beneficial bacteria to colonize.

Substrates often have direct effects on water quality. It’s very important to know what kind of fish you keep and what are their requirements? Some substrates tend to alter the water chemistry by releasing substances into the water. Keep that in mind when you purchase your first substrate.

For example, crushed coral contains calcium carbonate and is used for raising the water hardness. Which might be great for African cichlid tank but no so good for Amazon based tanks. Of course, substrates can have indirect effects too. Some fish thrive in dark-colored substrates and their overall health is better.

ADA Aqua Soil Amazonia

Ada Aqua Soil Amazonia is one of the better substrates on the market, and it’s an excellent choice for people who have planted tanks. It’s one of the most used substrates among fishkeepers and there is a reason for that. It really works. If you want to have a tank with a variety of aquatic plants than this substrate is a no brainer.

There are other things that make this substrate fantastic for planted tanks and your fish. The dark coloration really enhances the color of your fish. And it also lowers the PH of the water which is great for all aquatic plants. Not to mention that is excellent for fish that naturally live in water with lower PH like Amazon.

Lastly, but not less important, you need to pay attention on the ammonia spike when you use it for the first time. I’ve heard a lot of scary stories from people using Ada Aqua Soil Amazonia for the first time that result with dead fish. So make sure your fish are transferred to another tank until your new aquarium is fully cycled and beneficial bacteria is established.

Seachem Flourite

Seachem Flourite is a really good aquarium substrate that will provide healthy nutrients for your plants. This is a clay based substrate and it’s high in iron. It will last a lifetime and is rated as one of the best-looking substrates among planted tanks enthusiasts

What I really like about this substrate is that is different than other substrates. You are probably wondering what do I mean. Hear me out. This substrate will not alter the PH levels of the water like the others, which in my opinion is a great thing. It’s one of the best substrates for planted aquariums out there.

The only thing I don’t like about Seachem Flourite is that is damn too dirty. I mean you need to rinse over and over again until is clean enough and ready for use. However, when the initial preparation is done, you’ll see how beautiful it looks in your aquarium.

CaribSea Eco-Complete

This is another great substrate for planted tanks. Mostly, I like that it contains a lot of nutrients that are quite helpful for plant growth. It’s rich in iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, sulfur plus and over 25 other nutrients. And, because is iron rich, Eco Complete doesn’t need any extra laterite.

There are lots of other great things about this substrate. It comes with live bacteria that will help to cycle your tank faster. It’s great for the plants too, converting the fish waste into natural food for their roots.

Finally, I need to mention that you don’t need to rinse this substrate before you put it into the tank. And it has nice dark coloration. Overall is a very good product. Hard to argue with that!

Fluval Plant and Shrimp Stratum

According to Fluval, this substrate doesn’t only work as a great source of nutrients for aquatic plants, but it can also be used for shrimp tank. It’s perfect hiding place for young shrimps until they are fully grown.

I particularly like the dark coloration of this substrate. It really enhances the color of your shrimps. And is great for the overall look of the aquarium. Fluval Plant and Shrimp Stratum is volcanic soil and it’s light, porous and rich in nutrients and minerals.

The only thing I really don’t like about this substrate is that’s too light. You might have some problems for plants with shorter roots. Aside from that, it’s generally good product. After all, it’s made from Fluval a well-respected company in the aquatic industry.

Final thoughts

When choosing a substrate for your aquarium, pay close attention to what kind of plants and fish you want to keep. It’s also very important to test different types of substrates because there is not a perfect substrate out there. Testing will help you understand what your plants want and is fun too.

The 5 choices I reviewed for the best substrate for planted tank offer a variety of benefits that will be useful for your plants.

Additionally, they provide a lot of different nutrients that are necessary for optimal plant growth.

Image credit: Amazon.com

Featured image: 1.

Whenever I read forums related to the aquatic world, I always come across on the same question. It is one of the most discussed subjects in the aquatic community, and it seems to me that there aren’t clear answers that provide good information.

I think it is time to end this dilemma once for all.
However, the reality is, that there is not a simple answer, cause most of the opinions are based on personal experience.

An average aquarist will say that having a HOB filter is more than enough, and in some cases, they’ll be right, but larger aquariums require more powerful filters.
On another hand, If you look at the big picture, the obvious answer is canister filter.

Or is it?

To avoid some additional misunderstandings, let’s break things down, step by step.I expect that you’ll feel confident in your ability to chose the right product by the end of the post.

Cost

The major problem people have, when they are looking for canister filters, is that they are extremely expensive. If you are just a beginner in this hobby, you won’t be glad to throw away a couple hundred dollars only for a filter. Add to that heater, lighting, and other additional stuff, and you can see yourself spending a small fortune on your aquarium.
It is ok.
We are all passionate aquarist, and we all know that this is an expensive hobby. But for everybody else who are on tight budget, power filters can be a viable option.When it comes to cost we have the absolute winner.
HOB VS CANISTER 1:0

Durability

Put the cost away and suddenly we have a clearer vision.
Canisters are overall better products than HOBs.
Their life span is longer. They are built by more quality materials. And they are much quieter than an average power filter.
At first, it sounds like a good idea to have power filter. But, some way down on the road, we’ll all get what is the best option.
When it comes to durability we know who is the winner.
Canister vs Hob 1:1

Filtration

If you just look at the filters themselves, clearly the winner is canister filter.
They have better filtration and better filter media.
On the other hand, HOBs are much easier for maintenance.
However, canisters are more convenient for larger tanks.
You can use it also on smaller tanks.
After all, there is not such thing as a too much filtration.
When it comes to filtration power, the trophy goes to canister filters.
Canister vs HOB 2:1

Conclusion

As we can see from the result, if you can afford it, you should definitely buy a canister filter.
It is a great option for your aquarium, and certainly, your aquatic pals will love it.
But you can’t go wrong if you choose to have a power filter.
If you have a smaller tank, or you are just a beginner, that is a good place to start.

Image credit 1.