Best Submersible Aquarium Filters of 2026
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Submersible aquarium filters are a popular choice for fish tank owners who want a low-profile filtration system that won't take up too much space. These compact filters are designed to be fully submerged in the aquarium, keeping the water clean and clear without creating a bulky eyesore. Submersible aquarium filters come in a variety of sizes and styles to suit different tank sizes and types of fish, and many models feature adjustable flow rates and easy-to-clean filter media. Whether you're a novice aquarium owner or an experienced fish enthusiast, a submersible aquarium filter can help you maintain a healthy and vibrant aquatic environment for your pets.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Top 10 Submersible Aquarium Filters
SainSmart XpertMatic 15W Aquarium Filter
The SainSmart XpertMatic Filter offers a quiet operation, running at under 35dB, so it won’t disturb you even in a bedroom setting. It keeps your tank water well-oxygenated and circulating smoothly, creating a healthy space for your fish or turtles. Its dual-stage filtration system ensures your water stays clear by efficiently removing impurities, suitable for both freshwater and marine tanks. This filter fits tanks up to 70 gallons and has a strong flow rate of 238 gallons per hour, helping maintain a clean and balanced environment. Plus, it’s easy to install with suction cups and simple to monitor thanks to its transparent filter box, so you know exactly when it needs cleaning or a cartridge change.
TARARIUM Aquarium Filter 300GPH 4 in 1
The TARARIUM Aquarium Filter is a multi-functional underwater filter that combines aquarium air pump, filtration, water pump, and water wave-making into one. The powerful filter has double deep filtration to reduce odor and yellow water and can be reused after rinsing. It operates quietly with less than 40 DB sound level and is suitable for large 40-150 gallon fish tanks. It also comes with a 1-year warranty for any questions or problems.
BlueYu 4-in-1 Aquarium Filter 15-40G
The BlueYu Aquarium Filter is designed to keep your 15-40 gallon tank clean and healthy with its four-in-one functionality. It provides strong water circulation and efficient filtration, removing food scraps, waste, and plant debris to maintain clear water. You’ll appreciate the quiet operation, as it runs smoothly without disturbing your home environment. Cleaning the filter is simple—just twist the base to access and refresh the filter media, making maintenance hassle-free. This filter also supports oxygenation, which helps keep your fish and plants thriving. Overall, the BlueYu Aquarium Filter offers convenience and effective care for your aquarium.
NICREW Aquarium Internal Filter
The NICREW Aquarium Internal Filter is a powerful and customizable submersible power filter with multiple functions. It provides effective and thorough biological and chemical filtration, creating superior aquarium water environment. It is equipped with adjustable air regulator that distributes a gentle flow of water, making it safe for delicate fish or shrimp. It is suitable for both freshwater and saltwater tanks, and quickly assembles and disassembles. Customers have praised its powerful flow, customizable filter media, and quiet noise level.
NO.17 Submersible Aquarium Internal Filter 15W
The NO.17 Submersible Aquarium Internal Filter 15W is a reliable and efficient filter system designed to create a clean and fresh living environment for your fish. With a 15W power, it is suitable for large aquariums ranging from 150 to 200 gallons. The adjustable 400 GPH water pump allows you to control the flow rate, ensuring optimum filtration for your tank. The package includes 4 nozzles, providing versatility in cleaning and maintaining your aquarium. The filter also comes with multiple filter media for all filtration purposes, ensuring that your fish or turtle will have a clean and healthy environment. Additionally, this product is backed by a 180-day warranty, giving you peace of mind in your purchase.
XpertMatic DB-368F 3 Stages 475 GPH Aquarium Filter
The XpertMatic DB-368F Aquarium Filter is a 3-stage filter designed for up to 120-gallon aquariums, fish tanks, and fountains. It features an ultra-quiet design, a max flow rate of 475 GPH, and a max lift height of 4.92ft. It is easy to set up and clean, and comes with a submersible water pump. Customers have found it to be powerful, easy to use, and great for keeping water crystal clear. However, some have noted that it can be noisy and the filter sponges can clog quickly.
DaToo Aquarium Filter for 5-15 Gallon Tanks
The DaToo Aquarium Filter is designed to keep your fish tank clean and healthy with its multi-functional system. It combines water circulation, oxygenation, wave making, and filtration, making it ideal for tanks between 5 and 15 gallons. The filter runs quietly at just 40 decibels, so it won’t disturb you or your aquatic pets. It also features an adjustable oxygen supply, allowing you to control airflow to suit the needs of different fish and plants. Plus, its deep biofiltration system with a high-density sponge helps remove debris and supports beneficial bacteria, ensuring clear and fresh water for your fish to thrive.
hygger 5-in-1 Internal Aquarium Filter
The hygger 5-in-1 Filter is a versatile device designed to keep your freshwater or saltwater aquarium clean and healthy. It combines five functions, including strong filtration, water circulation, oxygenation, wave-making, and even microorganism culture, which help create a balanced environment for your fish. Made from durable materials, this filter promises long-lasting use with minimal maintenance. Its dual filtration system uses special filter cotton and quartz balls to keep water clear and support beneficial bacteria growth, essential for a healthy tank. Plus, you can easily adjust the water flow to suit your tank’s needs, while the built-in aeration system improves oxygen levels without needing an extra air pump, making it a convenient and quiet choice for your aquarium.
Penn-Plax Cascade 600 Submersible Filter for Aquariums and Turtle Tanks
The Penn-Plax Cascade 600 Submersible Filter is a quiet and efficient filter that can cycle water at 175 Gallons per Hour (GPH) for tanks up to 50 Gallons in size. It has an adjustable flow switch and directional flow nozzles that allow for convenience and customization. The filter is fully submersible and utilizes 2 filter media chambers to remove harmful chemicals and toxins from your aquarium's water. The Venturi Aeration feature provides your tank with oxygenated water and eliminates the need for an air pump. The Cascade 600 also includes an Aerating Spray Bar that evenly distributes filtered water over the surface of your aquarium.
Aulofee Internal Aquarium Filter 50-150G
The Aulofee Aquarium Filter is a versatile 6-in-1 system designed for tanks between 50 and 150 gallons. It offers powerful water circulation and filtration with a 450 GPH flow rate, helping you keep your tank clear and your aquatic pets healthy. The upgraded bottom fish guard prevents small fish from getting sucked into the filter, while the debris tray collects leftover food and waste, making tank cleaning easier. You can control both water flow and oxygen levels separately, ensuring a calm environment for your fish. Plus, it operates quietly at under 25dB, so it won’t disturb you or your aquatic friends.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can aquarium filter be submerged?
Yes, submersible aquarium filters are designed to be fully submerged underwater. They are also known as internal filters and are square-shaped devices that are placed at the bottom of the tank.
2. Where do you put a submersible filter in an aquarium?
Submersible filters can be placed in different locations depending on the type. Under gravel filters are placed at the bottom of the tank under the substrate. Canister filters are placed on the floor or bottom of the tank stand. Hanging filters are hung at the backside of the tank. Internal filters are placed at one of the inside corners of the tank.
3. Do submersible filters work?
Yes, submersible filters, also known as internal filters, are effective in smaller aquariums. While they may not create a strong water flow, they provide the right environment for smaller fish that prefer still waters.
4. How often should you clean an internal aquarium filter?
For in-tank filters, it is recommended to remove the filter from the tank and clean the sponges in a bucket of aquarium water. The chemical filter media should be replaced every 3-4 weeks, and the filter housing can be given a quick rinse at the same interval.
During our submersible aquarium filter research, we found 24 submersible aquarium filter products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 88,722 customer reviews through our big data system to write the submersible aquarium filters list. We found that most customers choose submersible aquarium filters with an average price of $22.12.
The submersible aquarium filters are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of submersible aquarium filters, including SainSmart, TARARIUM, BlueYu, NICREW, NO.17. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 222 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.
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.