Top Canister Filter Picks

The Magnum 220 and 350 Canister Filters by Marineland are the only units of their kind with a patented self-priming bottom-mounted motor design. The micron-pleat cartridge and carbon/media container can be used alone or together, and combined with the attachable Power Kleen Gravel Washer, the tank cleaning capabilities of these units are unsurpassed by other canister filters. They are quite a workhorse, and an excellent choice for easily adding extra mechanical filtration to any aquarium when needed to help polish or clean up the water quick and efficiently.

The Marineland Magnum H.O.T. (Hang-On-Tank) model is 250 GPH flow rate certified. This canister combines the power and versatility of the same micron/carbon features of a full sized Magnum, but in a compact unit that hangs right on the rim of the aquarium. This is an ideal water polishing filter to use for maintenance procedures. It can quickly be attached to any aquarium and run when extra mechanical filtration is needed to help clean up the water at any time.

Despite problems with the old Fluval 03 Series models, such as breaking latches, being hard to clean, difficult to put back together and get started, when the new and improved 04 Series came along, these faults where fixed. At that time it was suggested that Hagen had out done themselves with this line, but now with their newer 05 Series units, these canisters are better than ever. One of the best features of these canisters is how easy they are to open, remove and clean the prefilter sponges, without disturbing the media trays, and then close and restart them. Available in various GPH output sizes, we consider any of the 04 and 05 units to be top quality canister filters.

For years many aquarists have felt that you can't go wrong with an Eheim. Even though more expensive than some other canister filters, with the many different styles, models and sizes of canisters to pick from, it shouldn't be hard for any aquarist's to find an individual or combination mechanical, chemical and biological filter to meet their aquarium filtration needs from this line of filters.

Available in three models, the Rena FilStar XP Series Canister Filters by Aquarium Pharmaceuticals are multi-stage, bypass-free systems that are highly efficient and versatile. With features such as a unique one-step water shut off and disconnect control lever, multi-use filtration baskets with easy lift out handles, and many others, they are said to be easy to install, use and maintain.

The Ocean Clear canister is a terrific, multi-use filter. It includes a reusable 25-micron cartridge with 40 sq. ft. of surface area, a built-in pressure gauge and drain valve. Options include an 18-watt UV sterilizer. It measures: 11" dia. x 11" H, making it easy to use in a cabinet.

Marineland's newest multi-stage canister filter is available in the C-160, C-220, and C-360 models. The C-160 features multiple easily removable "Stack N' Flo Filter Trays" which contain filter foam, carbon filter bag, bio-filter balls and filter floss pad. Filter service is as simple as: push a lever, turn the key and lift out the Stack N' Flo Filter Trays.