In-tank counter current protein skimmers were the first type of skimmers to appear in the saltwater aquarium hobby. They were simple devices which used an air pump driven airstone, the bubbles from which collected proteins and deposited them in a collection cup. These skimmers are the least expensive and easy to install and operate. With in-tank skimmers, there are no worries about wet floors.
The Lee's skimmer is a bare bones, easy to set up and maintain, inexpensive in-tank skimmer that comes preassembed and includes a limewood air stone. All that is needed is an air pump to get it running and start producing good quality foam. Available in three sizes for tanks up to 30, 60 or 90 gallons.
The Berlin Air-Lift is an air pump driven, counter-current skimmer that can be mounted either in the tank or sump, and is a way to take advantage of Berlin technology at a greatly reduced price. Available in two sizes for tanks up to 60 or 90 gallons.
The Aqua Medic Midifloter is a compact, double chambered in-tank unit that requires an air pump and limewood air stone for operation, as well as a constant water level in the tank to maximize efficiency. For tanks up to 100 gallons in size.
The Aqua Medic Turboflotor 750 is a venturi pump driven in-tank skimmer designed for tanks up to 100 gallons that is compact and includes a prefilter for efficient mechanical filtration.
The Red Sea Berlin Classic is a well constructed, dependable venturi driven skimmer that is suitable for tanks up to 250 gallons in size and can be mounted in or alongside the tank or sump, but may be tricky to set up and maintain.