We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Small Aquariums 2025 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Marineland Portrait Glass LED Aquarium Kit, 5 Gallons, Hidden Filtration,Black

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,267
Shape
Material
Filtration System

Most important from
9858 reviews

Shape
The aquarium's design, with rounded corners and a clear glass canopy, offers a beautiful view from multiple angles.
Material
The Marineland aquarium's glass construction is a standout feature, offering a premium feel compared to plastic tanks.
Filtration System
The hidden filtration system and pump work effectively while maintaining a clean and minimalist look.
Lighting
The dual lighting options, white for daytime and blue for night, enhance both the aesthetic appeal and the overall ambiance.
Accessories
The rear compartment design is praised for hiding wires and accessories, contributing to the tank's sleek appearance.

The Marineland Portrait Glass LED Aquarium Kit is an attractive choice for anyone looking to start a small indoor aquarium. With a 5-gallon capacity and a sleek, modern design featuring rounded corners and a clear glass canopy, it allows for a beautiful view of your aquatic life from multiple angles. The included LED lighting system offers both bright white for daylight and blue for moonlight, creating a visually appealing environment for fish and enhancing the ambiance of the room.

One of the standout features is its hidden 3-stage filtration system, which keeps the aquarium looking clean and minimizes clutter. The tank is also lightweight and easy to assemble, making it a good fit for beginners. The kit includes essential components like filter cartridges and instructions on setting up the aquarium, which is especially useful for first-time aquarium owners.

However, while the filtration system is effective, some may find the need to replace the filter cartridges every 2-4 weeks to maintain optimal water quality somewhat tedious. Additionally, the tank's size limits the number and types of fish you can keep; it's best suited for smaller species. The absence of a heater means that if you want to keep tropical fish, you'll need to purchase one separately, which could add to the initial setup cost.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,267
Shape
Material
Filtration System

Most important from
9858 reviews

Shape
The aquarium's design, with rounded corners and a clear glass canopy, offers a beautiful view from multiple angles.
Material
The Marineland aquarium's glass construction is a standout feature, offering a premium feel compared to plastic tanks.
Filtration System
The hidden filtration system and pump work effectively while maintaining a clean and minimalist look.
Lighting
The dual lighting options, white for daytime and blue for night, enhance both the aesthetic appeal and the overall ambiance.
Accessories
The rear compartment design is praised for hiding wires and accessories, contributing to the tank's sleek appearance.
#2

Aqueon LED MiniBow Small Aquarium Fish Tank Kit with SmartClean Technology, Black, 2.5 Gallon

Rating
10.0
Size (Capacity)
Material
Filtration System

Most important from
5260 reviews

Size (Capacity)
The tank size is perfect for 2 to 3 glo fish and is easy to put together.
Material
The Aqueon MiniBow Aquarium is still going strong after 3 years, with the acrylic bowl looking new and no scratches.
Filtration System
The tank is easy to keep clean, and filter changes are simple—just pop out the old filter and insert a new one.

The Aqueon LED MiniBow Small Aquarium Fish Tank Kit is a compact 2.5-gallon tank designed for both novice and experienced fish keepers. Its SmartClean Technology is one of its standout features, allowing for water changes in under two minutes, promoting better water quality and making maintenance easier. This is particularly beneficial for busy individuals or those new to aquarium keeping, as it minimizes the effort required to maintain a healthy environment for fish.

The rectangular shape and black acrylic material give it a sleek, modern look, making it a suitable decoration for any room, whether it's a home office, living room, or bedroom. The included accessories, such as the power filter, small filter cartridge, fish food, and water conditioner, provide a comprehensive starter kit that simplifies the setup process.

The 2.5-gallon capacity may limit the number and size of fish you can keep, making it best suited for small fish or a few shrimp. This aquarium kit is ideal for anyone looking to start a small aquarium without overwhelming maintenance demands, but potential buyers should assess their fish selection carefully due to size limitations.

Rating
10.0
Size (Capacity)
Material
Filtration System

Most important from
5260 reviews

Size (Capacity)
The tank size is perfect for 2 to 3 glo fish and is easy to put together.
Material
The Aqueon MiniBow Aquarium is still going strong after 3 years, with the acrylic bowl looking new and no scratches.
Filtration System
The tank is easy to keep clean, and filter changes are simple—just pop out the old filter and insert a new one.

Buying Guide for the Best Small Aquariums

Choosing the right small aquarium involves understanding your needs and the needs of the fish or aquatic life you plan to keep. Small aquariums are great for beginners, limited spaces, or as a decorative piece. However, they require careful consideration to ensure a healthy environment for your aquatic pets. Here are some key specifications to consider when selecting a small aquarium.
Size (Capacity)The size or capacity of an aquarium is measured in gallons or liters. This spec is crucial because it determines how many fish you can keep and how stable the water conditions will be. Smaller tanks (1-5 gallons) are suitable for a single small fish or shrimp, but they require more frequent maintenance. Medium small tanks (5-10 gallons) can house a few small fish and are easier to maintain. Larger small tanks (10-20 gallons) offer more stability and can support a small community of fish. Choose a size based on the number and type of fish you want to keep, and remember that larger tanks are generally easier to maintain.
ShapeAquariums come in various shapes, such as rectangular, cube, and cylindrical. The shape affects the surface area for gas exchange and the swimming space for fish. Rectangular tanks provide more surface area and are generally better for fish health. Cube tanks are compact and stylish but may have less surface area. Cylindrical tanks are visually appealing but can distort the view of the fish. Choose a shape that fits your space and aesthetic preferences while considering the well-being of your fish.
MaterialAquariums are typically made from glass or acrylic. Glass tanks are more scratch-resistant and provide clearer views, but they are heavier and can break more easily. Acrylic tanks are lighter and more impact-resistant, making them easier to move and less likely to crack, but they can scratch more easily. Consider where you will place the tank and how often you might need to move it when choosing the material.
Filtration SystemA good filtration system is essential for maintaining water quality and keeping your fish healthy. Filters come in different types, such as internal, hang-on-back, and sponge filters. Internal filters are compact and fit inside the tank, making them suitable for small spaces. Hang-on-back filters are efficient and easy to maintain but require some space behind the tank. Sponge filters are gentle and ideal for small tanks with delicate fish or shrimp. Choose a filtration system that matches the size of your tank and the needs of your aquatic life.
LightingProper lighting is important for the health of your fish and any live plants in the aquarium. LED lights are energy-efficient and provide a range of colors and intensities. Fluorescent lights are also common but consume more energy. The lighting should mimic natural daylight to support the biological rhythms of your fish and promote plant growth. Consider the type of fish and plants you have when selecting the lighting, and ensure it is adjustable to meet their needs.
HeatingMany fish require a stable water temperature to thrive. Heaters are used to maintain the appropriate temperature in the tank. Submersible heaters are placed inside the tank and are suitable for small aquariums. In-line heaters are installed in the filtration system and are less common in small tanks. Choose a heater with an adjustable thermostat to maintain the ideal temperature for your specific fish species.
AccessoriesAccessories such as decorations, substrate, and plants can enhance the appearance of your aquarium and provide hiding places for fish. Decorations should be safe for fish and not alter the water chemistry. Substrate, like gravel or sand, should be chosen based on the needs of your fish and plants. Live plants can improve water quality and provide a natural environment, but they require proper lighting and care. Choose accessories that create a comfortable and stimulating environment for your fish.

FAQ

Most Popular Categories Right Now