Best 5 Gallon Tank Aquarium Heaters of 2025

Janie Foster Avatar
Janie Foster
Last Updated: Jan 7, 2025

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When it comes to keeping a 5-gallon tank aquarium warm, a reliable heater is essential. Luckily, there are many options available on the market that are perfect for smaller tanks. These heaters are designed to be compact and easy to install, while still providing efficient and effective heating. Whether you're looking for a traditional submersible heater or a more high-tech option with digital controls, there's sure to be a heater that suits your needs. With the right heater in place, you can ensure that your fish and other aquatic creatures stay healthy and comfortable in their 5-gallon home.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

DaToo Mini Aquarium Heater 25W Cover #TOP 1
DaToo Mini Aquarium Heater 25W
ftb score rating icon 9.9
hygger 20W Mini Fish Tank Heater Cover #TOP 2
hygger 20W Mini Fish Tank Heater
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Orlushy 25W Mini Fish Tank Heater Cover #TOP 3
Orlushy 25W Mini Fish Tank Heater
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 5 Gallon Tank Aquarium Heaters

DaToo Mini Aquarium Heater 25W

DT-25A
Black
DaToo Mini Aquarium Heater 25W Cover
DaToo Mini Aquarium Heater 25W Small Fish Tank Heater 25 Watt with Free Thermometer Sticker

The DaToo Mini Aquarium Heater 25W is designed to create and maintain a perfect and comfortable water temperature for small fish tanks of 1 to 5 gallons. With precise and constant temperature, it keeps the temperature of the fish habitat in the best state at all times. It is the smallest 25W aquarium heater on the market, ensuring that it can fit perfectly in any small fish tank. Made of quartz glass material, this heater is explosion-proof and crack-proof, making it more sturdy and durable. It also comes with a one-year warranty and satisfaction guarantee.

What We Like
Precise and constant temperature
The smallest 25W aquarium heater on the market
Safe and durable with rubber sealing layer and quartz glass material

hygger 20W Mini Fish Tank Heater

HG142
black
20 Watt
hygger 20W Mini Fish Tank Heater Cover
hygger Mini Fish Tank Submersible Heater 20W for 1-5 Gallons Desktop Betta Aquarium Heater with Digital Display Controller Adjustable Temperature

The hygger Mini Heater is designed for small aquariums, making it perfect for your Betta or turtle tank. With its safety features, including a beep alarm and automatic shutdown during malfunctions, you can feel secure knowing your fish are safe. The adjustable temperature control allows you to easily set the water temperature between 59 and 93 degrees, ensuring your aquatic pets stay comfortable. Plus, the heater maintains a steady temperature automatically, so you don’t have to worry about constant monitoring. Its compact size makes it easy to hide, providing a clean look in your tank.

What We Like
Compact and discreet design
Safety features for protection
Adjustable temperature settings
Automatic temperature regulation

Orlushy 25W Mini Fish Tank Heater

RH25
gray
Orlushy 25W Mini Fish Tank Heater Cover
Orlushy 25W Submersible Mini Fish Tank Heater, Adjustable Aquarium Heater with Digital Display External Controller, Overheat Protection and Free Thermometer for 1-5 Gallon Freshwater & Saltwater Tank

The Orlushy Mini Heater is designed for aquariums ranging from 1 to 5 gallons, making it ideal for fish, betta, and turtle tanks. Its durable quartz glass construction ensures safety and longevity, while the efficient heating system provides quick and uniform warmth throughout the tank. With an external controller featuring a digital display, you can easily monitor and adjust the temperature without getting your hands wet. Plus, the heater includes an automatic shut-off feature that activates if the water temperature exceeds 95℉, protecting your aquatic pets from overheating.

What We Like
Compact and space-saving design
Durable quartz glass material
Rapid and efficient heating
External control for convenience
Automatic shut-off for safety

FREESEA Aquarium Fish Tank Heater: 25W

Aquarium Heater
Black
NEW-25W
FREESEA Aquarium Fish Tank Heater: 25W Cover
FREESEA Aquarium Fish Tank Heater: 25W/50W/100W/300W Small Submersible Aquarium Heater with Preset Temperature for 1-5 Gallon Betta Turtle Freshwater Saltwater Tank

FREESEA 25W Aquarium Heater is a small submersible water heater suitable for 1-5 gallon tanks. It features a rubber sealing layer for safety, auto constant temperature control, and a 3.9ft power cord for easy placement. The heater ensures your tank stays at the ideal temperature for your betta, turtle, saltwater, or freshwater pets, providing a safe and comfortable environment. Remember to fully submerge the heater before use and enjoy the peace of mind with the 12-month warranty included.

What We Like
Safe rubber sealing layer
Auto constant temperature control
Long 3.9ft power cord

HITOP Mini Submersible Aquarium Heater - 50W

HITOP Mini Submersible Aquarium Heater - 50W Cover
HITOP Mini Submersible Aquarium Heater - 50W Digital Heater for Fish Tank Turtle Tank 5-15 Gallon, Saltwater and Fresh Water with Temperature Controller (50W)

HITOP Mini Submersible Aquarium Heater - 50W is a small-sized heater suitable for seawater and freshwater heating for small fish tanks or fish bowls ranging from 5-15 gallons. It is easy to operate with a 6ft long cable wire and external temperature controller, allowing you to set the temperature between 68-93℉. The controller has a Digital LED temperature display that shows the real-time water temperature and set temperature, making it easy to read. Additionally, this heater has a fish-friendly design made of thickened quartz glass with good sealing performance to prevent water from entering.

What We Like
Easy to operate
Digital LED temperature display
Fish-friendly design
#TOP 6

Kulife Fumak 25W Adjustable Aquarium Heater

FUMAK
SC-06A025
Kulife Fumak 25W Adjustable Aquarium Heater Cover
FUMAK 25W Adjustable Aquarium Heater Super Short Submersible Fish Tank Heater Fish Heater with LED Digital Display Thermostat, for Tanks 3-5 Gallons

The Kulife Fumak 25W Adjustable Aquarium Heater is a super short submersible fish tank heater with LED digital display thermostat, perfect for tanks 3-5 gallons. It is super small and takes up less space than traditional aquarium heaters, making it easy to hide but in full power. The heater has super accurate temperature control at an accuracy of 1℉, digital display with double temperature readings, and multiple protections including dry run and overheating protection. Additionally, it has a memory function that saves the last setting in case of power cuts.

What We Like
Super short length saves space and is easy to hide
Super accurate temperature control at an accuracy of 1℉
Multiple protections including dry run and overheating protection
#TOP 7

NICREW Aquarium Heater 50W

50-watt
NICREW Aquarium Heater 50W Cover
NICREW Aquarium Heater 50W, Temperature Adjustable Fish Tank Heater with Controller for 5-10 Gallon, Overheat Protection

NICREW Heater 50W is a versatile aquarium heater suitable for 5-10 gallon tanks. You can easily adjust the temperature with the controller, ensuring accuracy for your fish. Its durable quartz glass construction provides safety and reliability. Installation is a breeze with the included suction cups. The heater features overheat protection, automatically shutting off if the water temperature goes above 98°F, safeguarding your aquatic pets.

What We Like
Adjustable Temperature Control
Durable Quartz Glass
Easy Installation
#TOP 8

FREESEA 50W Aquarium Heater

Aquarium Heater
Black
50W(5-15gallon)
FREESEA 50W Aquarium Heater Cover
FREESEA Aquarium Fish Tank Heater: 50W Small Submersible Aquarium Heaters with Adjustable Digital LED Controller Leaving Water Automatic Stop Heating for 5-10 Gallon Betta Turtle Freshwater Saltwater

The FREESEA Aquarium Heater is a reliable solution for maintaining the ideal water temperature in your 5 to 10-gallon aquarium. With its advanced overheating protection, you can rest assured that the heater will stop functioning if the water gets too hot or if it runs dry, preventing any harm to your fish. The precision digital LED controller allows you to easily adjust the temperature between 64℉ and 95℉, ensuring your aquatic pets are comfortable. Additionally, the heater features a durable design that promotes safe heat transfer, keeping your aquarium environment secure for all its inhabitants.

What We Like
Automatic shut-off feature
Easy temperature adjustment
Durable and safe design
Includes warranty and accessories
#TOP 9

AquaMiracle 25W Mini Aquarium Heater

Black
AquaMiracle 25W Mini Aquarium Heater Cover
AquaMiracle Adjustable 25W Mini Aquarium Heater Submersible Fish Tank Heater Turtle Tank Heater Small Aquarium Heater, with LED Digital Display, for Tanks 2-5 Gallons

The AquaMiracle Mini Aquarium Heater is designed for tanks between 2 to 5 gallons, offering a compact solution that saves space while delivering powerful heating. Its intelligent inverter technology ensures precise temperature control, maintaining water temperature within 0.1°F accuracy, so you can keep your aquatic pets comfortable. The user-friendly digital display shows both current and set temperatures, making adjustments easy. Additionally, with built-in safety features, the heater automatically shuts off if water levels drop too low or if temperatures exceed safe limits, protecting your fish from overheating, especially during power outages.

What We Like
Compact design
Accurate temperature control
Safety shutdown features
Memory function
#TOP 10

AQUANEAT 25W Aquarium Heater

AQUANEAT 25W Aquarium Heater Cover
AQUANEAT Aquarium Heater, 25W Fish Tank Heater, Adjustable Submersible Water Thermostat with Thermometer

The AQUANEAT 25W Heater is perfect for your 3 to 5-gallon fish tank. You'll appreciate the adjustable temperature dial that allows you to set the water temperature anywhere from 65°F to 89°F, ensuring your aquatic pets are comfortable. Once the desired temperature is reached, the heater automatically turns off, maintaining a steady environment in your aquarium. This feature helps prevent temperature fluctuations that can stress your fish. Additionally, the product comes with two suction cups for easy installation and a thermometer strip to monitor water temperature easily. Enjoy a hassle-free experience with this reliable aquarium heater.

What We Like
Adjustable temperature control
Automatic shut-off feature
Easy installation
Includes thermometer strip
Buying Guide Image

A Guide to Selecting the Best 5 Gallon Tank Aquarium Heaters for Your Pets

Introduction

If you're a fish enthusiast, you're likely familiar with the importance of maintaining a proper aquarium temperature for your aquatic friends. One option for heating your aquarium is a 5 gallon tank heater, which can effectively heat and maintain the temperature of a smaller tank. But with so many options on the market, choosing the right heater for your aquarium can seem daunting. In this article, we'll provide some helpful tips for selecting the perfect heater for your 5 gallon tank.

Consider the Size and Type of Your Tank

Before purchasing a heater, it's important to consider the size and type of your tank. A 5 gallon tank heater is specifically designed for aquariums that hold 5 gallons or less of water. If your tank is larger than 5 gallons, you'll need to purchase a heater with a higher wattage to adequately heat the water. Additionally, it's important to consider the type of tank you have. For example, if you have a glass tank, you'll want to choose a heater that is specifically designed for glass tanks to prevent it from cracking.

Research Different Brands and Models

Once you've determined the appropriate size and type of heater for your tank, it's time to start researching different brands and models. There are many different brands and models of 5 gallon tank heaters on the market, and each one has its own unique features and benefits. Take some time to read reviews and compare different heaters to determine which one is the best fit for your aquarium.

Consider the Temperature Range and Accuracy

When selecting a 5 gallon tank heater, it's important to consider the temperature range and accuracy of the heater. Aquatic animals have specific temperature preferences, so it's important to choose a heater that can accurately maintain the desired temperature range for your fish. Most 5 gallon tank heaters have a temperature range of 68-78 degrees Fahrenheit, which is suitable for most tropical fish. However, if you have fish that require a specific temperature range, it's important to choose a heater with a wider temperature range to ensure their comfort and health.

Look for Safety Features

When choosing a heater for your 5 gallon tank, safety is of the utmost importance. Tank heaters can be dangerous if not used properly, so it's important to choose a heater with built-in safety features. Many 5 gallon tank heaters come with automatic shut-off features that will turn the heater off if the water temperature gets too high or too low. This can help prevent overheating and other potential hazards.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right 5 gallon tank heater for your aquarium requires some research and consideration. By taking into account the size and type of your tank, researching different brands and models, considering the temperature range and accuracy, and looking for safety features, you can select the perfect heater for your aquatic friends. With the right heater, you can ensure that your fish are comfortable and happy in their tank.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can you put a heater in a 5 gallon tank?

If your tank is 5 gallons then it's entirely possible to use a smaller heater such as 25 watts. And there's nothing wrong with that. However, a 50-watt heater is going to be able to heat a tank a lot better and a lot quicker than a 25-watt heater.

2. Is a 10 watt heater good for a 5 gallon tank?

On the market, there are 7.5w, 10w, 15w, 25w aquarium heaters—all indicating that they will work just fine for a tank 5 gallons and under. BEWARE! Not all low-wattage heaters are the same!

3. Can I use a 100 watt heater in a 5 gallon tank?

Actually, there is no harm at all in using a large heater in a small tank. Modern aquarium heaters are equipped with a thermostat which turns the heater on and off when the tank water varies from the desired temperature.

Editor's Notes

During our 5 gallon tank aquarium heater research, we found 24 5 gallon tank aquarium heater products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 67,920 customer reviews through our big data system to write the 5 gallon tank aquarium heaters list. We found that most customers choose 5 gallon tank aquarium heaters with an average price of $16.77.

The 5 gallon tank aquarium heaters are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of 5 gallon tank aquarium heaters, including DaToo, hygger, Orlushy, FREESEA, HITOP. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 599 consumers with an average rating of 4.5.

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.