Best Aquarium Starter Kits of 2025

Janie Foster Avatar
Janie Foster
Last Updated: Jan 15, 2025

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Aquarium starter kits are the perfect solution for those who are new to the world of aquariums. These kits come with everything needed to get started, including a tank, filter, heater, and lighting. They are available in a variety of sizes to accommodate different spaces and budgets. Some kits even come with decorations and substrate to create a beautiful and functional environment for aquatic life. With an aquarium starter kit, beginners can easily set up and maintain their own aquarium, bringing the beauty and tranquility of underwater life into their homes.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Aqueon Aquarium Starter Kit with LED Lighting Cover #TOP 1
Aqueon Aquarium Starter Kit with LED Lighting
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Tetra 20 Gallon Aquarium Kit with LED Lighting and Decor Cover #TOP 2
Tetra 20 Gallon Aquarium Kit with LED Lighting and Decor
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Marineland Portrait Glass LED Aquarium Kit Cover #TOP 3
Marineland Portrait Glass LED Aquarium Kit
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Aquarium Starter Kits

#TOP 1

Aqueon Aquarium Starter Kit with LED Lighting

100527256
Clear
10 gallon
Aqueon Aquarium Starter Kit with LED Lighting Cover
Aqueon Aquarium Fish Tank Starter Kit with LED Lighting 10 Gallon Fish Tank

The Aqueon Aquarium Starter Kit includes all the necessary equipment to get started in one box. The low profile full hood contains vibrant cool white LED lighting to bring your aquatic environment to life. The filter has a red LED light that flashes to indicate when it's time to change the cartridge. The preset heater will keep your aquarium temperature at a constant 78 degrees, which is appropriate for most tropical fish. This kit includes glass aquarium, low profile LED hood, QuietFlow power filter, filter cartridge, submersible preset heater, premium fish food sample, water conditioner sample, fish net, thermometer and setup guide. Simply add your favorite style of plants and decor to create a beautiful and healthy environment for your fish.

What We Like
Easy setup process
Quiet filter system
Includes essential accessories
Good for beginners
Stylish hood and lighting
What We Don't Like
Filter issues reported
Hinge doesn’t close well
#TOP 2

Tetra 20 Gallon Aquarium Kit with LED Lighting and Decor

NV33821
Tetra
20 gallon
Tetra 20 Gallon Aquarium Kit with LED Lighting and Decor Cover
Tetra Aquarium, 20 Gallon, Complete Tropical Fish Tank Kit With LED Lighting And Decor For Freshwater Fish

The Tetra 20 Gallon Aquarium Kit is a durable, scratch-resistant glass tank that comes with an LED hood, providing natural lighting and a Whisper Filter that keeps the water flow powerful while remaining whisper-quiet. The included artificial plants create a natural ocean feel and reduce fish stress by providing a place to hide. This kit also comes with a Tetra Mini UL Heater and a Boxwood Plant Mat, and all you need to add are gravel and fish to complete your aquarium.

What We Like
Everything included for setup
Color-changing LED lights
Quiet filter operation
Good customer service
Visually appealing design
What We Don't Like
Missing thermometer in one case
Light may need replacement
#TOP 3

Marineland Portrait Glass LED Aquarium Kit

ML90609-00
Black
5 GAL
Marineland Portrait Glass LED Aquarium Kit Cover
Marineland Portrait Glass LED Aquarium Kit, 5 Gallons, Hidden Filtration,Black

The Marineland Portrait Glass LED Aquarium Kit is a 5-gallon aquarium starter kit with a sleek design, including rounded corners and a clear glass canopy for multi-angle viewing. It features both daylight and moonlight lighting, with bright white LEDs creating a shimmering sunlight effect and blue LEDs producing a moonlit glow. The hinged LED lighting and sliding glass canopy provide easy access. The kit includes advanced, 3-stage filtration that is hidden out of sight, enhancing the aquarium viewing experience. This easy-to-assemble kit is perfect for those looking for a beautifully designed and easy-to-maintain aquarium.

What We Like
Great price for quality
Stylish, modern design
Hidden filtration system
Adjustable filter flow
Good for live plants
What We Don't Like
Flimsy rear cover
Limited filtration media options
#TOP 4

Tetra Complete LED Aquarium 10 Gallons

NV33832
Multi
10 Gallons
Tetra Complete LED Aquarium 10 Gallons Cover
Tetra Aquarium, 10 Gallon, Complete Tropical Fish Tank Kit with LED Lighting for Freshwater Fish

The Tetra Complete LED Aquarium 10 Gallons is a glass aquarium kit that comes with everything you need to get started. The aquarium features low-profile hinged hood, Tetra Whisper PF10 Power Filter with Tetra Medium Bio-Bag Filter Cartridge, accessories including a fish net, Tetra AquaSafe water conditioner sample, TetraMin food sample and set-up guide. The kit also has energy-efficient white LEDs to create a natural underwater shimmer effect. The 10-gallon tank measures 20 inches wide by 10 inches deep by 12 inches high, making it easy to set up.

What We Like
Easy setup
Good price
No leaks
Bright LED lights
Includes essential accessories
What We Don't Like
Some parts are cheap plastic
Filter can be noisy
#TOP 5

Koller Products 6-Gallon AquaView 360 Aquarium Kit

AP360A-6FFP
Transparent
6-Gallons
Koller Products 6-Gallon AquaView 360 Aquarium Kit Cover
Koller Products Plastic 6-Gallon AquaView 360 Aquarium Kit for Tropical Fish, Betta Fish with LED Lighting and Power Filter Clear, 4-Piece Set

The Koller Products 6-Gallon AquaView 360 Aquarium Kit is a great choice for families looking to own an aquarium. It features energy-efficient LED lighting with 7 dazzling color selections, a powerful internal power filter, and an impact-resistant plastic construction. The built-in light timer allows you to set the LED light to come on at the same time every day. Perfect for tropical fish, betta fish, and other small species, this aquarium is a great way to bring a fun and rewarding experience into your home.

What We Like
Quiet operation
Attractive design
Color-changing light
Easy to maintain
Good value for money
What We Don't Like
Occasional filter issues
Customer support concerns
#TOP 6

Tetra Goldfish LED Aquarium Kit

NV81620
White
Tetra Goldfish LED Aquarium Kit Cover
Tetra Goldfish LED Kit 10 Gallons, Complete Aquarium Set with Lighting and Filter

The Tetra Goldfish Kit is a complete aquarium solution designed to provide everything you need to create a thriving environment for your goldfish. The glass tank not only looks great but also measures a spacious 10 gallons, giving your fish ample room to swim. Energy-efficient white LEDs illuminate the tank, mimicking natural underwater light and enhancing the beauty of your aquatic pets. With a 3-stage filtration system, you can ensure clean and healthy water, as it effectively combines mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration. The included accessories, such as a feeding port and samples of food and water conditioner, make setup and maintenance easy for you.

What We Like
Easy setup
Comes with necessary equipment
Ample space for fish
Sturdy design
Enhances fish colors
What We Don't Like
Hood orientation issue
Possible broken glass after purchase
#TOP 7

Wonderfactory 3 Gallon Betta Fish Tank

V1 Standard
Hang-On Back Filter
3 Gallon
Wonderfactory 3 Gallon Betta Fish Tank Cover
3 Gallon Betta Fish Tank Small Aquarium Starter Kit, with Heater Self Cleaning System Efficiency Filter Bright Light Rocks Gravel Cleaning Tool Set, HD Float Complete Glass Leak-Proof Gift Present

The Wonderfactory Betta Fish Tank is an all-in-one starter kit perfect for beginners. It features a 3-in-1 ultra-quiet filter pump that helps maintain clean water while ensuring a peaceful environment for your fish. The tank is made from high-quality glass, providing a stunning viewing experience, making it easy to appreciate your aquatic friends. Additionally, the kit comes with a full set of cleaning tools and essential accessories, taking the hassle out of setup and maintenance. With everything included, you can focus on enjoying your new hobby right away.

What We Like
Complete starter kit
Crystal-clear glass
Quiet self-cleaning filter
Easy setup
Stylish design
What We Don't Like
Small space for fish
Filter may require attention
#TOP 8

Tetra Bubbling LED Aquarium Kit 1 Gallon

29040-00
Green
Tetra Bubbling LED Aquarium Kit 1 Gallon Cover
Tetra Bubbling LED Aquarium Kit 1 Gallon, Hexagon Shape, With Color-Changing Light Disc

The Tetra Bubbling LED Aquarium Kit 1 Gallon has a hexagon shape and is perfect for betta fish. It includes a color-changing bubbling disc that automatically cycles through a rainbow of LED light colors. The kit comes with an air pump-driven Tetra Whisper Internal Power Filter that keeps the tank clean and provides a healthy environment for pet fish. The clear canopy has a hole for easy feeding.

What We Like
Compact size
Easy setup
Sturdy design
Includes filter and light
Good for small fish
What We Don't Like
Instructions unclear
Air pump can be loud
#TOP 9

Koller Products 5-Gallon Aquarium Kit

AQ15005
5 Gallons
Koller Products 5-Gallon Aquarium Kit Cover
Koller Products 5-Gallon Aquarium Kit with LED Lighting and Power Filter, Ideal for a Variety of Tropical Fish

The Koller Products 5-Gallon Aquarium Kit with LED Lighting and Power Filter is a fun and rewarding way to teach children about pet ownership. With energy-efficient LED lighting featuring 7 dazzling color selections, this aquarium kit provides crystal-clear clarity, a powerful internal power filter, and a unique shape for optimum viewing from multiple angles. Made of impact-resistant plastic, this one-piece tank ensures leak-proof assurance unlike glass tanks. Dimensions are 16.50 L x 10.00 W x 11.80 H Inches. User Set-Up Instructions and Koller Products premium filter cartridge are included.

What We Like
Perfect size for small spaces
Easy to set up and maintain
Good value for the price
Bright, colorful lighting options
Happy and healthy fish
What We Don't Like
Acrylic scratches easily
Filter may require replacement
#TOP 10

Tetra ColorFusion Starter Aquarium Kit

29041
Tetra ColorFusion Starter Aquarium Kit Cover
Tetra 3 Gallon Small Fish Tank, Aquarium Starter Kit, with Filter, Air pump, & Color Changing Light, Half Moon shape, for Gold Fish & Betta

The Tetra ColorFusion Starter Aquarium Kit is a 3-gallon half-moon shaped aquarium that allows 180-degree panoramic viewing. It includes an air pump-driven Tetra Whisper Internal Power Filter to keep the tank clean and a bubbling disc that cycles through a rainbow of LED light colors. The clear canopy has a hole for easy feeding, making it a convenient and healthy environment for pet fish.

What We Like
Affordable price
Easy to set up
Includes filter and air pump
Unique shape
Great for beginners
What We Don't Like
Minor assembly issues
Plastic feels flimsy
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How much does it cost to start a fish tank?

Cost. Potential aquarium owners often see the price tag on a special package deal and assume they can get started for a few dollars. Don't be fooled into thinking you'll get started in the hobby for fifty dollars or less. Realistically it will cost $150 to $200 to get a twenty-gallon aquarium with decent equipment.

Editor's Notes

During our aquarium starter kit research, we found 24 aquarium starter kit products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 153,128 customer reviews through our big data system to write the aquarium starter kits list. We found that most customers choose aquarium starter kits with an average price of $88.86.

The aquarium starter kits are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of aquarium starter kits, including Aqueon, Tetra, MarineLand, Koller Products, Wonderfactory. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

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.

Aquarium Starter Kits Comparison Table

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Brand Aqueon Tetra MarineLand Tetra Koller Products Tetra Wonderfactory Tetra Koller Products Tetra
Item Weight 17.5 pounds 34.1 pounds 16 pounds 14 Pounds 4.5 pounds 14 pounds 4.99 Kilograms 2.2 pounds 4.8 Pounds 16 ounces
Material Glass Glass Glass Glass Plastic Glass Glass Acrylic Plastic Acrylic
Style Aquarium Traditional Glass Modern Modern and Compact Modern Modern Modern Trendy Shape General
Target Species Fish Fish Fish Fish Tropical Fish, Betta Fish Fish Fish Fish Tropical Fish Fish
Tank Volume 10 Gallons 20 Gallons 5 Gallons 10 Gallons 6 Gallons 1E+1 Gallons 3 Gallons 1 Gallons 5 Gallons 3 Gallons
Special Feature Aquarium Starter Kit with LED Lighting Transparent Lightweight Lightweight Aquarium Starter Kit, Made of Impact-Resistant Plastic Lightweight Rimless, Transparent, Self Cleaning Transparent Shatter Resistant LED Light
Shape Rectangular Rectangular Rectangular Rectangular Cylindrical Rectangular Rectangular Hexagonal Rectangular Semicircular
Specific Uses For Product Aquarium for fish Indoor Indoor Active Ornamental Shrimp, Betta Fish Tank, Aquarium Starter Kit, Cichlid Fish, Tropical Fish Aquarium Active Indoor Environment Tropical Fish Aquarium Starter Kit Aquarium
Item Package Dimensions L x W x H 23.5 x 16 x 14 inches 28 x 20.32 x 16.28 inches 17.17 x 11.95 x 11.81 inches - 21.89 x 12.48 x 12.05 inches 22 x 14 x 12.25 inches - 9.72 x 8.27 x 7.68 inches - 13.59 x 13.09 x 6.93 inches
Item Dimensions LxWxH 20.25 x 10.5 x 9.6 inches 27.88 x 16.13 x 20.38 inches 9.5 x 9.5 x 14 inches - 11.5 x 11.5 x 19.5 inches 12 x 10 x 12 inches - 6.75 x 7.69 x 8.31 inches - 6.88 x 12.5 x 12.9 inches
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.0
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