Best Aquarium Filters for Turtle Tanks of 2025

Janie Foster Avatar
Janie Foster
Last Updated: Jan 6, 2025

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Aquarium filters are essential for maintaining the cleanliness and health of turtle tanks. They work by removing debris, waste, and toxins from the water, ensuring that the turtles have a safe and healthy environment to live in. There are several types of filters available for turtle tanks, including canister filters, power filters, and sponge filters. Canister filters are ideal for larger tanks and provide superior filtration, while power filters are more affordable and suitable for smaller tanks. Sponge filters are also cost-effective and gentle on baby turtles. Whatever type of filter you choose, make sure to select the right size for your tank and follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper installation and maintenance.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

PULACO Aquarium Internal Filter Cover #TOP 1
PULACO Aquarium Internal Filter
ftb score rating icon 9.9
TARARIUM U-V Aquarium Filter 200GPH Cover #TOP 2
TARARIUM U-V Aquarium Filter 200GPH
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Coospider-Repta Aquarium Filter 300 GPH Cover #TOP 3
Coospider-Repta Aquarium Filter 300 GPH
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Aquarium Filters for Turtle Tanks

#TOP 1

PULACO Aquarium Internal Filter

Blacks
PULACO Aquarium Internal Filter Cover
PULACO Aquarium Internal Filter 3 to 20 Gallons, for Turtle Tanks, Reptiles, Amphibians, Frog, Cichlids, Newt or Fish Tank

The PULACO Aquarium Internal Filter is a great choice for any aquarium up to 20 gallons. It features a waterfall design to help with water aeration, a large size filter plate to block water debris, and a 5watts 132GPH water pump for low power consumption and low noise. Installation is quick and easy, and the filter comes with a lifetime warranty and 24-hour professional after-sales service. However, the filter may be noisy if the water level is low, and the sponge filter may be eaten by turtles.

What We Like
Quick and easy installation
Waterfall design to help water aeration
Low power consumption and low noise
Lifetime warranty and 24-hour professional after-sales service

TARARIUM U-V Aquarium Filter 200GPH

CTUV-H6F
TARARIUM U-V Aquarium Filter 200GPH Cover
TARARIUM Aquarium Filter U-V for 20-75 Gallon, 200GPH Fish Tank Filter w/ 5W U-V Light Green Clean Machine Submersible Powerful Pump Internal Filter for Turtle Tank Saltwater Freshwater Crystal Clear

The TARARIUM U-V Filter is designed to keep your aquarium water crystal clear, often transforming cloudy or green water within just a few days. With its dual filtration system, it combines a biochemical sponge filter with a powerful U-V light, effectively improving water quality and reducing the need for frequent water changes. You can easily control both the pump and the U-V light separately, allowing for flexibility in operation. Plus, this filter helps eliminate unpleasant odors, ensuring a fresher environment for your aquatic friends. You can quickly check the U-V light's status without needing to disassemble the unit, adding to its convenience.

What We Like
Effective water clarity
Dual filtration system
Separate controls for convenience
Reduces unpleasant odors

Coospider-Repta Aquarium Filter 300 GPH

coospider-repta
Black
Coospider-Repta Aquarium Filter 300 GPH Cover
Aquarium Filter for 55-150 Gallons Tank, Internal Fish Tank Filter, Powerful Pump Submersible for Large Fish Tanks, Turtle Tanks, Kois Aeration Deodorization Wave Making Decontamination Filter System

The Coospider-Repta Aquarium Filter is designed for tanks ranging from 55 to 150 gallons, providing a powerful 300 GPH water pump that ensures efficient filtration for large aquariums, turtle tanks, and ponds. It features an adjustable valve for enhanced aeration, allowing you to boost oxygen levels in the water, which promotes healthier and more active fish and turtles. With its double deep filtration system, this filter effectively removes odors and impurities, keeping your aquarium water clear and fresh. Additionally, the dynamic water flow feature enhances circulation and creates waves, contributing to a vibrant aquatic environment.

What We Like
Powerful filtration capability
Adjustable aeration for health
Effective odor removal
Improves water circulation
#TOP 4

TARARIUM 290GPH Aquarium Filter

IX-120
Black
IX-120
TARARIUM 290GPH Aquarium Filter Cover
Turtle Tank Filter Aquarium Filter Power Adjustable 30-55 Gal. 290GPH Large Internal Filter 3-Stage Waterfall Bio-Filtration Low Water Level for Freshwater Saltwater Fish Tank Reptile Shrimp Frog

The TARARIUM Aquarium Filter is designed to keep your aquatic environment clean and healthy. Its dual-sided sponge filter effectively captures debris like fish waste and leftover food, ensuring your tank remains tidy. The ceramic bio-balls provide essential biological filtration, breaking down waste and reducing odors, which improves overall water quality. With an adjustable water flow, you can customize the filtration to suit your specific needs, making it versatile for both freshwater and saltwater tanks. Plus, the easy-access canister makes cleaning and media replacement a breeze, helping you maintain a thriving habitat for your fish and reptiles.

What We Like
Effective debris removal
Improves water quality
Customizable water flow
Easy maintenance
#TOP 5

Moonorange Turtle Tank Filter

Black
Moonorange Turtle Tank Filter Cover
Moonorange Aquarium Filter(3.5W), Fish Tank Filter, Turtle Tank Filter, Low-Water Filter for Small Fish Tank, Reptile Tank Up to 15Gallon, with 2 Cartridges(Black)

The Moonorange Filter is a compact and powerful aquarium internal filter designed for small and medium-sized fish and turtle tanks of 1-15 gallons. With a 3.5W motor and a flow rate of 280L/H, this filter can be used in various water level tanks, including low water level tanks. It offers two installation modes - an adjustable hook to hang the filter according to the water level, and strong suction cups to fix the filter on smooth tank surfaces. The filter's waterfall water circulation significantly improves water circulation and dissolved oxygen volume in the tank, creating a healthier environment for your aquatic pets. The motor maintenance is simple, just rinse it with water regularly to remove debris. The filter also comes with 3-layer filter cartridges that help clean water, absorb odors and discoloration, and provide clean and healthy water for your tank. With its compact design and multiple features, the Moonorange Filter is a great choice for maintaining the water quality in your aquarium.

What We Like
Compact and powerful
Adjustable hook and strong suction cups
Improves water circulation and oxygen volume

Penn-Plax Cascade 600 Submersible Filter for Aquariums and Turtle Tanks

CIF3
Penn-Plax Cascade 600 Submersible Filter for Aquariums and Turtle Tanks Cover
Penn-Plax Cascade 600 Fully Submersible Internal Filter – Provides Physical, Biological, and Chemical Filtration 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.

What We Like
Quietly delivers crystal clear water
Adjustable flow switch and directional flow nozzles for convenience and customization
Fully submersible with 2 filter media chambers to remove harmful chemicals and toxins
#TOP 7

Moonorange Turtle Tank Filter 3.5W

Moonorange Turtle Tank Filter 3.5W Cover
Moonorange Turtle Tank Filter(3.5W), Small Fish Tank Filter, Silent Aquarium Filter for Small Tanks Up to 15Gallon, with 4pcs Cartridges.(Black)

The Moonorange Filter is a compact yet powerful aquarium filter designed for small tanks up to 15 gallons. It operates quietly, making it perfect for home environments. With two installation options, you can easily hang it or use strong suction cups to secure it to the tank. This filter enhances water circulation, ensuring your fish and turtles have access to clean, oxygen-rich water. Regular maintenance is simple; just rinse the motor to keep it debris-free. You'll also receive four filter cartridges that help absorb odors and discoloration, promoting a healthy habitat for your aquatic pets.

What We Like
Compact design
Quiet operation
Easy installation
Improves water circulation
Includes replacement cartridges

Coospider-Repta 600GPH UV Aquarium Filter

coospider-repta
Large Fish Tank Filter for 75-200 Gallon
Black
Coospider-Repta 600GPH UV Aquarium Filter Cover
600GPH UV Aquarium Filter for 100-300 Gal Tank, Large Fish Turtle Tank Green Water Clean Machine Submersible Canister Filter Powerful Pump Pond Filter for Saltwater Freshwater Crystal Green Killing

The Coospider 600GPH Filter is designed for large fish tanks ranging from 100 to 300 gallons, making it ideal for various fish species. Its powerful UV filtration system effectively clears green water within 72 hours, ensuring your aquatic environment stays clean and healthy. You can conveniently manage the filter's UV light independently, allowing you to maintain filtration while turning off the light when not needed. Additionally, the adjustable air valve enhances oxygen levels, creating a lively environment for your fish while promoting water circulation.

What We Like
Efficient algae removal
Independent UV control
Enhanced oxygenation
Reduces unpleasant odors
#TOP 9

Moonorange 10 Pack Aquarium Filter Plates

10pcs Cartridge
Cartridge-10pcs
Moonorange 10 Pack Aquarium Filter Plates Cover
Moonorange 10 Pack Auqarium Filter Replacement Plates, Turtle Tank Filter Sponges, Suitable for 3.5W 280L/H Low-Water Filter

The Moonorange Filter Cartridges come in a pack of ten, making it easy for you to maintain your aquarium. Regularly replacing these filters every 1-2 weeks ensures your tank remains clean and healthy. Each cartridge features a three-layer design, with two sides of cotton sponges and a center layer of activated carbon. This combination effectively filters the water, removing odors and discoloration. You can also enhance the filtering power by adding additional materials. These cartridges are specifically designed for use with a 3.5W low-water filter, ensuring compatibility with your setup.

What We Like
Ten cartridges included
Effective odor removal
Three-layer filtration system
Easy to maintain
Compatible with specific filters

AquaMiracle 3-Stage Aquarium Filter

HCF-314F
Black
AquaMiracle 3-Stage Aquarium Filter Cover
AquaMiracle Aquarium Filter for 40-150 Gallon Aquariums, Fish Tank Filters Turtle Filter Internal Power Filter 3-Stage Filtration with Aeration/Rainfall Modes Flow Rate and Direction Adjustable

The AquaMiracle Aquarium Filter offers a powerful filtration solution for tanks ranging from 40 to 150 gallons. With a maximum flow rate of 300 gallons per hour, it ensures optimal water circulation and aeration, which are essential for the health of your fish and plants. The fully submersible design features an epoxy-sealed motor, ensuring safety and reliability. Additionally, the 3-stage filtration system effectively removes impurities, odors, and fine particles, keeping your aquarium water crystal clear. You can also choose between aeration and rainfall modes for enhanced oxygenation and gentle water movement, creating a comfortable environment for your aquatic life.

What We Like
High flow rate
Fully submersible
3-stage filtration
Aeration and rainfall modes
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What type of filter is best for turtle tank?

Canister filters are considered by most keepers to be the best kind of filters for a turtle tank. They usually mount under the tank in the cabinet or stand, so they don't take up space inside the tank. Canister filters provide excellent filtration, but they're also pretty expensive for the larger-capacity ones.

2. Do turtles need filters in their tanks?

As with a turtle tank, water filters are essential in turtle tubs to ensure the good health and well-being of your turtles. A general rule of thumb is that for every inch in carapace length your turtle is, provide 10 gallons of water.

3. How do you filter a turtle tank?

Exo Terra Turtle FilterZilla Aquatic Reptile Internal FilterFluval FilterFilter FluvalPenn-plax Reptology Optimizer Pre-Filter for Turtle Tank Canister FiltersZoo Med 501 Turtle Canister FilterZoo Med Activated Carbon Insert Filter MediaJackSuper Aquarium Turtle Filter Waterfall Flow Water Clean Pump Bio-Filtration for Reptiles Tank Low Level Waterfall Filter for Small Fish Tank TurtlPULACO Filtro interno para acuario de 3 a 20 galonesJulam Aquarium Turtle Filter Low Level Waterfall Flow Filter for Reptiles Tank Small Fish Shrimp TankShulemin Turtle Tank Filter Low Water Level Water Quality Purified Water Pump Aquarium Turtle Pump Pet SuppliesCheers.us Aquarium Turtle Filter, Turtles Habitat Reptile Tank Filter Submersible Low Water Level Waterfall Filter Turtle Tank Aquarium Filter, SEACHEM TIDALAquatop UV Canister Filter CF Series CF500-UV - 9 Watts - 525 GPHFREESEA Internal Aquarium Power Filter 8W Adjustable Water Flow 2 Stages Filtration sZoo Med Turtle Clean 50/75 Activated Carbon InsertMarineland Magniflow Canister FilterAquarium Internal Filter 3 To 20 Gallons, For Turtle Tanks, Reptiles,Yochaqute Aquarium Fish Tank Filter 8w Internal Filter Pump for 40-120 Gallon Salt Water

Editor's Notes

During our aquarium filter for turtle tanks research, we found 24 aquarium filter for turtle tanks products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 28,258 customer reviews through our big data system to write the aquarium filters for turtle tanks list. We found that most customers choose aquarium filters for turtle tanks with an average price of $25.47.

The aquarium filters for turtle tanks are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of aquarium filters for turtle tanks, including PULACO, TARARIUM, coospider-repta, Moonorange, Penn-Plax. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 745 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

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.