Best Sponge Aquarium Filters of 2026

Janie Foster Avatar
Janie Foster
Last Updated: Jan 15, 2026

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Sponge aquarium filters are a popular choice for fish tank enthusiasts due to their effectiveness and affordability. These filters utilize a sponge-like material that traps debris and waste, keeping the water clean and clear for fish to thrive in. They are easy to install and maintain, making them a great option for beginners and experienced aquarium owners alike. Sponge filters also provide a gentle flow of water, making them ideal for delicate fish species. With a variety of sizes and shapes available, sponge aquarium filters can accommodate tanks of different sizes and shapes.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Pawfly Aquarium Corner Sponge Filter Cover #TOP 1
Pawfly Aquarium Corner Sponge Filter
ftb score rating icon 9.8
AQQA Aquarium Sponge Filter Cover #TOP 2
AQQA Aquarium Sponge Filter
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Hygger Aquarium Double Sponge Filter Cover #TOP 3
Hygger Aquarium Double Sponge Filter
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Sponge Aquarium Filters

Pawfly Aquarium Corner Sponge Filter

Pawfly Aquarium Corner Sponge Filter Cover
Pawfly Aquarium Corner Sponge Filter Quiet Betta Fry Shrimp and Small Fish Bio Foam Filter with Natural Stones Gravels and Ceramic Rings for Fish Tanks up to 30 Gallons (Air Pump Not Included)

The Pawfly Sponge Filter is designed to keep your aquarium clean and healthy. Its multi-layer fine sponge effectively filters out debris while ensuring your fish remain safe and unharmed. The bottom gravels work to absorb harmful substances and release essential trace elements, promoting a balanced environment. Additionally, the ceramic rings help cultivate beneficial bacteria, further enhancing water quality. With its quiet aeration system, you can enjoy a peaceful home while ensuring your fish receive optimal oxygen levels. This filter is perfect for tanks up to 30 gallons, making it versatile for various setups.

What We Like
Effective filtration system
Promotes healthy water quality
Quiet operation
Customizable filter materials

AQQA Aquarium Sponge Filter

GUS-AQ046-S
Grey
Small
AQQA Aquarium Sponge Filter Cover
AQQA Aquarium Sponge Filter Submersible Fish Tank Filter Ultra Quiet Aeration Bio Sponge Corner Filter for Breeding Fry Betta Shrimp Fish Tank (Small for 5-20 Gallon)

The AQQA Aquarium Sponge Filter is an air-powered filter that combines mechanical and biological filtration, aeration, and water circulation in one. It comes with two replaceable sponges and bio ceramic media balls, and is suitable for 5-20 gallon tanks. Customers have praised its good quality sponge material and efficient filtration, though some have noted that the filter can be difficult to install and may take up swimming space in smaller tanks.

What We Like
Good amount of biological media
Very dense and good quality sponge material
Ultra-quiet operation
#TOP 3

Hygger Aquarium Double Sponge Filter

da7e6084-a1eb-4b75-acac-42bbbc672b85
Hygger Aquarium Double Sponge Filter Cover
hygger Aquarium Double Sponge Filter, Comes with 2 Spare Sponges (S)

The Hygger Aquarium Double Sponge Filter is a multi-filtration system that combines bio-filtration, oxygenation and physical filtration in one. It is suitable for 10 to 40 gallon fish tanks and comes with two spare sponges, a bag of ceramic media balls and two containers. The sponges are detachable and easy to clean and the filter can be easily attached to any tank position with two strong suction cups. Customers have praised the filter for its ease of use, quiet operation and effectiveness in keeping the water clean.

What We Like
Multi-filtration functions
Easy to use and clean
Quiet operation
#TOP 4

Hygger Sponge Filter for 15-55 Gallon Tanks

Hygger Sponge Filter for 15-55 Gallon Tanks Cover
hygger Sponge Filter, Aquarium Filter Double Sponge Replaceable Media with 4 Biochemical Sponges and 1 Bag of Filtered Ceramic Balls Ultra Quiet Filter Fish Tank (S/M) (M for 15 to 55 Gallon Tank)

The Hygger Sponge Filter is a great choice for aquariums between 15 and 55 gallons. It features biochemical filtration, two kinds of replaceable filter materials, an easy-to-use setup, and an upgrade filter with multi-layer design. Customers have praised its quiet operation, strong suction cups, and long-lasting sponges. However, some have noted that it may not be suitable for tanks with loose substrate and that the suction cups can sometimes become detached.

What We Like
Biochemical filtration
Replaceable filter materials
Easy-to-use setup
Upgrade filter with multi-layer design
Quiet operation
#TOP 5

Hygger Aquarium Double Sponge Filter

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Hygger Aquarium Double Sponge Filter Cover
hygger Aquarium Double Sponge Filter for Fresh Water and Salt-Water Fish Tank (M)

The Hygger Aquarium Double Sponge Filter is a multi-filtration system that combines bio-filtration, oxygenation and physical filtration in one. It is designed for both fresh and salt-water fish tanks, ranging from 10 to 40 gallons. The filter comes with two detachable fine sponges, two containers, and a bag of ceramic media balls. It is easy to assemble and use, and customers have reported a visible improvement in water quality within a few days of installation.

What We Like
Multi-filtration system
Easy to assemble and use
Visible improvement in water quality
#TOP 6

hygger Small Aquarium Bio Sponge Filter

Black
hygger Small Aquarium Bio Sponge Filter Cover
hygger Small Aquarium Bio Sponge Filter Mini Fish Tank Filter for Breeding Fry Betta Shrimp Tank 2-5 Gallon (Small)

The hygger Bio Sponge Filter is a fish-safe, seamless design without any moving parts, perfect for shrimp tanks, quarantine tanks, or fry tanks. It requires an air pump and airline (both sold separately) to run, and is suitable for 0.5-5 gallon tanks. Customers have praised its compact design, low noise, and ease of cleaning, though some have noted that the foam filter is too fine and thick to draw air in.

What We Like
Fish-safe, seamless design
Compact design with low noise
Easy to clean and maintain
Suitable for 0.5-5 gallon tanks
Protects small fish from getting sucked up
#TOP 7

DVHEY 100-120 Gal Aquarium Filter

Medium Sponge Filter
Black
DVHEY 100-120 Gal Aquarium Filter Cover
DVHEY 100-120 Gal Large Aquarium Sponge Filter with Air Stone and Ceramic Media,2 Pack Quiet Fish Tank Filters fit Breeding Fry Betta Shrimp Fish Tank

The DVHEY Aquarium Filter offers effective dual filtration with sponge and ceramic media, ensuring a cleaner environment for your aquatic pets. The high-density sponge captures harmful waste, while the ceramic media enhances aeration. With its bubble diffuser design, you can enjoy a quiet tank as tiny bubbles promote smooth water flow. This filter is versatile, suitable for various tanks, including shrimp and betta habitats, making it an excellent choice for all types of fish keeping. Plus, it’s easy to clean and reusable, saving you time and money.

What We Like
Powerful dual filtration
Quiet operation
Wide compatibility
Easy to clean
#TOP 8

hygger Aquarium Single Sponge Filter

hygger Aquarium Single Sponge Filter Cover
hygger Aquarium Single Sponge Filter for Small Fish Tank 5-15 Gallon

The hygger Aquarium Single Sponge Filter is a great choice for small fish tanks, ranging from 5-15 gallons. It comes with a single sponge filter, a spare sponge, and two suction cups. It is easy to assemble and clean, and provides great filtration, water flow, aeration, and surface agitation. Customers have praised its adjustable, well-thought-out design, and its ability to collect debris quickly.

What We Like
Easy to assemble and clean
Provides great filtration, water flow, aeration, and surface agitation
Adjustable, well-thought-out design
Quickly collects debris
#TOP 9

AQQA Aquarium Electric Power Sponge Filter

FUS-AQ016-S
Black
AQQA Aquarium Electric Power Sponge Filter Cover
AQQA Aquarium Electric Power Sponge Filter,3W/5W Silence Submersible Foam Filter,Sponges Bio Ceramic Media Balls Double Filter for Saltwater Freshwater Fish Tank (S)

The AQQA Aquarium Electric Power Sponge Filter is an upgraded filter with a powerful motor, making it more efficient and energy-saving. It features double filtration with physical and biochemical filtration, including high-quality biochemical cotton and bio ceramic media balls. The water outlet can be adjusted 360 degrees and stretched to adapt to different depths of fish tanks. It comes with four sponges, one bag of bio ceramic media balls, and two suction cups for easy installation. Suitable for both saltwater and freshwater aquariums.

What We Like
Quiet operation with noise less than 30db
360-degree adjustable and stretchable water outlet
Double filtration for efficient water purification
#TOP 10

Pawfly Small Fish Sponge Filter

Pawfly Small Fish Sponge Filter Cover
Pawfly Aquarium Sponge Filter, Small Fish Foam Filter with Tubing Suction Cup Check Valve Connector and Control Valve Accessories for Betta Fry Shrimp Tiny Fish Tank up to 10 Gallons

The Pawfly Sponge Filter is designed for small fish tanks, holding up to 10 gallons. It includes essential accessories like 6.5-foot airline tubing and multiple connectors, making setup easy. With fine sponge filtration, it effectively removes debris and waste without harming your fish, ensuring crystal clear water. Additionally, this filter is simple to clean; just detach and rinse it with aquarium water every few weeks. Finally, its quiet operation means you can enjoy your aquarium without disturbing your daily life.

What We Like
Easy installation
Effective waste removal
Simple cleaning process
Quiet operation
Buying Guide Image

Sorting Out the Sponge Aquarium Filters That Are Right for Your Pets

Introduction to Sponge Aquarium Filters

When it comes to maintaining a healthy and thriving aquarium, having the right filtration system is crucial. Among the different types of aquarium filters available, sponge filters offer a versatile and effective solution for both freshwater and saltwater tanks. These filters use a sponge-like material to trap debris and waste, providing mechanical and biological filtration for your aquarium.

Factors to Consider when Choosing Sponge Aquarium Filters

When shopping for a sponge aquarium filter, there are several factors to consider in order to choose the best one for your tank.

  1. Tank size: One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a sponge filter is the size of your aquarium. You want to make sure the filter is powerful enough to adequately filter the entire volume of water in your tank. A good rule of thumb is to choose a filter with a flow rate that can turn over the entire volume of your tank at least four times per hour.

  2. Type of aquarium: As mentioned earlier, sponge filters can be used in both freshwater and saltwater tanks. However, the type of aquarium you have will affect the type of filter you choose. Freshwater tanks typically have a lower bio-load and can benefit from a smaller, more compact sponge filter. Saltwater tanks, on the other hand, often have a higher bio-load and may require a larger, more powerful sponge filter.

  3. Filter type: Sponge filters are available in two different types: air-powered and external. Air-powered sponge filters use an air pump to provide the necessary filtration, whereas external sponge filters are connected to a canister filter or power filter. Depending on the type of filtration system you already have in place, you may want to choose a certain type of sponge filter.

  4. Maintenance: One of the benefits of sponge filters is their ease of maintenance. However, they still require regular cleaning and replacement of the sponge material. Consider how often you are willing and able to clean and replace the sponge when choosing a filter.

Choosing the Right Sponge Aquarium Filter for Your Tank

Once you have considered the above factors, you are ready to choose the right sponge aquarium filter for your tank. Here are a few tips to help you make the best decision:

  1. Read reviews: Before making a purchase, be sure to read reviews from other aquarium hobbyists who have used the sponge filter you are considering. This will give you a good idea of the filter's performance and durability.

  2. Consult an expert: If you are unsure which sponge filter is best for your tank, don't hesitate to consult an expert at your local fish store or online aquarium forum. These experienced hobbyists can provide valuable advice and recommendations based on your specific situation.

  3. Consider your budget: Like any aquarium equipment, sponge filters can range in price from inexpensive to quite pricey. Consider your budget and choose a filter that fits within your means while still providing the necessary filtration for your tank.

Conclusion

In conclusion, sponge aquarium filters are a versatile and effective solution for both freshwater and saltwater tanks. By considering factors such as tank size, type of aquarium, filter type, and maintenance, you can choose the right sponge filter for your tank. Be sure to read reviews, consult an expert, and consider your budget when making your decision. With the right sponge filter in place, you can maintain a healthy and thriving aquarium for your fish and other aquatic inhabitants.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are sponge filters good for aquariums?

Yes, sponge filters are considered good for aquariums. They provide mechanical filtration by collecting debris from the water and also serve as a place for beneficial bacteria to grow. Sponge filters are popular among both beginner and experienced fish keepers due to their affordability, ease of cleaning, and durability.

2. What are the cons of a sponge filter?

The cons of a sponge filter include taking up physical space in the aquarium, which can be mitigated by hiding it behind decor. Additionally, a sponge filter does not offer the option for chemical filtration. Some people may not like the bubbling sound from a sponge filter, but this can be resolved with an air stone.

3. Do I need an air stone if I have a sponge filter?

Adding an air stone to the inside of a sponge filter is recommended. An air stone helps diffuse the air from the air pump into smaller bubbles, reducing the bubbling noise and improving the efficiency of filtration.

4. Is a sponge filter enough oxygen?

No, a sponge filter does not increase oxygen levels in the aquarium. The bubbles produced by a sponge filter do not inject oxygen into the tank. Adequate oxygenation in the aquarium can be achieved through other means, such as surface agitation.

5. Do sponge filters remove ammonia?

Sponge filters can help eliminate ammonia and nitrite from an aquarium, but it takes approximately 5-6 weeks for enough bacteria to colonize the sponge filter to achieve this. While the sponge provides surface area for bacteria growth, it does not significantly shorten the time required for the tank to fully cycle.

6. Does bacteria grow in sponge filter?

Yes, bacteria grow in a sponge filter. It takes about 5-6 weeks for enough bacteria to colonize the sponge filter and establish a beneficial bacterial population. This bacteria helps with the biological filtration process in the aquarium.

7. How often should I rinse sponge filter?

It is recommended to rinse the sponge filter once a month or whenever you notice a decrease in bubbles, which indicates that the foam is getting clogged with detritus. Regular cleaning helps maintain the efficiency of the sponge filter in cleaning the aquarium.

8. Do you need an air bubbler if you have a filter?

Having an air pump and air stone is not always necessary if you have a filter that agitates the water surface, ensuring adequate gas exchange and oxygenation. However, during warmer temperatures when oxygen dissolves less in water, an air pump with an air stone can help enhance oxygen levels, benefiting the fish.

Editor's Notes

During our sponge aquarium filter research, we found 24 sponge aquarium filter products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 73,473 customer reviews through our big data system to write the sponge aquarium filters list. We found that most customers choose sponge aquarium filters with an average price of $17.75.

The sponge aquarium filters are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of sponge aquarium filters, including Pawfly, AQQA, hygger, DVHEY. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 1,253 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Janie Foster Avatar

Janie Foster is a writer & pet blogger from Los Angeles, she enjoys living with her two cats and three dogs. She owned her first dog 10 years ago and then started her personal blog to record her dog's daily life. Throughout her personal life, she has developed specialized knowledge in pet care, pet nutrition, feeding habits, and more.