Best Saltwater Fish Tanks of 2025

Janie Foster Avatar
Janie Foster
Last Updated: Jan 4, 2025

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Saltwater fish tanks are a popular choice for those who want to bring a piece of the ocean into their homes. These tanks are specifically designed to ensure that the saltwater environment is maintained at optimal conditions for the health and wellbeing of the fish and other marine creatures. Saltwater fish tanks come in a variety of sizes and shapes, from small desktop tanks to large custom-built aquariums. They require specialized equipment, such as filters, heaters, and lighting, to create the perfect environment for the fish. With careful maintenance and attention, a saltwater fish tank can provide endless hours of enjoyment and relaxation for its owner.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Fluval Sea Evo XII Saltwater Fish Tank Aquarium Kit Cover #TOP 1
Fluval Sea Evo XII Saltwater Fish Tank Aquarium Kit
ftb score rating icon 9.8
GankPike 10-Gallon Rimless Aquarium Cover #TOP 2
GankPike 10-Gallon Rimless Aquarium
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Fluval Sea Flex Saltwater Aquarium Kit Cover #TOP 3
Fluval Sea Flex Saltwater Aquarium Kit
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Saltwater Fish Tanks

#TOP 1

Fluval Sea Evo XII Saltwater Fish Tank Aquarium Kit

10531A1
Black
13.5 Gal.
Fluval Sea Evo XII Saltwater Fish Tank Aquarium Kit Cover
Fluval Evo XII Saltwater Aquarium Kit, 13.5 Gal. – Saltwater Fish Tank with Reef-Capable LED, Efficient 3-Stage Filtration and Seamlessly Integrated Hardware

The Fluval Sea Evo XII Saltwater Fish Tank Aquarium Kit is a 13.5-gallon glass aquarium with a stylish honeycomb design that conceals the rear aquarium filter compartment and water line while providing an ultra-modern look. It has a powerful 3-stage filtration system with oversized mechanical, chemical, and biological Fluval filter media. The multifunctional canopy has an easy feed door, and the sleek, all-aluminum waterproof casing houses a convenient LED aquarium light with touch start day and night illumination. The tank measures 22 L x 11.5 W x 15 H inches (56 x 29 x 38 centimeter) and has a wattage of 16 W and lumens of 1383 lm.

What We Like
Stylish honeycomb design
Powerful 3-stage filtration system
Convenient LED aquarium light with touch start day and night illumination
#TOP 2

GankPike 10-Gallon Rimless Aquarium

YG10RW
Black
GankPike 10-Gallon Rimless Aquarium Cover
GankPike 10-Gallon Curved Corner Saltwater Aquarium Rimless Low Iron Aquarium Marine Fish Tank Reef Tank with Lid, Protein Skimmer, LED Light, Filter Media and Pump (Black, Premium All-in-One Kits)

The GankPike Rimless Aquarium is a stylish 10-gallon tank designed for saltwater fish and coral enthusiasts. With a spacious 1.5-gallon back filtration area and an 8.5-gallon viewing space, you can easily maintain a clean environment for your aquatic life. The included biochemical and mechanical filters, along with a premium protein skimmer, work together to ensure your fish thrive. Additionally, the aluminum alloy LED light enhances the beauty of your aquarium, featuring three color modes and adjustable brightness levels to support coral growth. This complete kit makes it simple for beginners to set up their saltwater aquarium.

What We Like
Elegant rimless design
Complete starter kit
High clarity glass
Adjustable LED lighting
Efficient filtration system
#TOP 3

Fluval Sea Flex Saltwater Aquarium Kit

FS400
Black
32.5 Gal.
Fluval Sea Flex Saltwater Aquarium Kit Cover
Fluval Flex 32.5 Marine Salt Water Aquarium Kit - Fish Tank for Fish, Coral & More - Comes with LED Lights, Filtration System & More - 32.5" x 15.75" x 15.35" - 123 L, 32.5 Gal. - Black

The Fluval Sea Flex Saltwater Aquarium Kit is a comprehensive starter kit designed for saltwater aquarium enthusiasts. With its full spectrum Marine 3.0 LED lighting system, operated via the FluvalSmart App on your mobile device, you can easily create the ideal lighting conditions for your vibrant corals. The 25000 K color temperature lighting promotes coral growth, while the 3 pre-set lighting conditions - sunny reef, deep sea glo, and color boost - allow you to customize the lighting to suit your preferences. The 24-hour programmable light timer mimics the natural cycle of the sun and moon, providing a more realistic environment for your aquatic pets. With its powerful 3-stage filtration system and 2 independent media chambers, this aquarium kit ensures superior water quality. The twin output nozzles allow you to adjust the water flow to create a customized environment for your marine life. The hidden rear filter compartment provides easy access to the media, and it seamlessly integrates with optional accessories such as the Fluval PS1 Protein Skimmer and M-150W Heater. Experience the convenience and beauty of the Fluval Sea Flex Saltwater Aquarium Kit.

What We Like
Full spectrum LED lighting
Customizable lighting conditions
24-hour programmable light timer
#TOP 4

Ultum Nature Systems 7 Gallon Aquarium

UNS 30A
Black
Ultum Nature Systems 7 Gallon Aquarium Cover
Ultum Nature Systems Dual All in One Complete Rimless Aquarium for Freshwater & Saltwater Tanks, Triple-Chamber Filter System Included, Integrated Fish Tank Kit w/Sleek Design - 7 Gallon, 30A, Black

The Ultum Nature Aquarium is a versatile all-in-one tank designed for both freshwater and saltwater environments. It features a built-in filtration system that ensures your aquatic life thrives with clean and clear water. You can create diverse habitats, whether for colorful fish or lush plants, all within a sleek, frameless design that enhances any space. The high-quality diamond glass offers excellent clarity, allowing you to showcase your aquatic setup beautifully. This aquarium is perfect for hobbyists looking to customize their aquatic experience with various size options from 7 to 21 gallons.

What We Like
Integrated filtration system
Stylish frameless design
Versatile for fresh or saltwater
High-quality diamond glass

HelloReef 15 Gallon Aquarium Kit

HelloReef
704335295239
Clear & Black
15 Gallon
HelloReef 15 Gallon Aquarium Kit Cover
HelloReef 15 Gallon Beginner Clownfish Saltwater Aquarium Kit with App Controlled Smart LED Lighting, Filtration, Decor, and Setup Guide

HelloReef Aquarium Kit is a comprehensive 15-gallon saltwater tank set that includes all essential components for a vibrant coral reef setup. Benefit from expert guidance, exclusive tutorials, and personalized support to ensure success in your reef-keeping journey. The high-quality equipment guarantees a thriving aquarium, whether you're a beginner or an experienced aquarist. Dive into the enchanting world of saltwater aquariums with ease and be part of a supportive community that will help you along the way.

What We Like
Comprehensive Starter Kit
Expert Guidance Available
High-Quality Equipment
#TOP 6

Fluval Sea Evo V Saltwater Fish Tank Aquarium Kit

10528A1
Black
5 Gal.
Fluval Sea Evo V Saltwater Fish Tank Aquarium Kit Cover
Fluval Sea Evo V Saltwater Fish Tank Aquarium Kit, Black, 5 gal, 10528A1

The Fluval Sea Evo V Saltwater Fish Tank Aquarium Kit is a 5-gallon glass aquarium designed for saltwater fish. It features a stylish honeycomb design that conceals the rear aquarium filter compartment and water line, while looking ultra-modern. The powerful 3-stage filtration with oversized mechanical, chemical, and biological Fluval filter media keeps the aquarium clean. The multi-functional canopy has an easy feed door, and the sleek, all-aluminum waterproof casing houses a convenient LED aquarium light with touch start day and night illumination. The aquarium measures 20.5 L x 11.6 W x 7.5 H inches (52 x 29.5 x 19 cm) and has a wattage of 10 W and lumens of 759 lm.

What We Like
Stylish honeycomb design conceals rear aquarium filter compartment and water line
Powerful 3-stage filtration with oversized mechanical, chemical, and biological Fluval filter media
Convenient LED aquarium light with touch start day and night illumination
#TOP 7

GankPike 12 Gallon Saltwater Aquarium

YG12ZDT
Black
GankPike 12 Gallon Saltwater Aquarium Cover
GankPike 12 Gallon Saltwater Aquarium U-Shaped Low Iron Ultra Clear Glass Aquarium Saltwater Fish Tank Reef Tank with Lid and Pad, Protein Skimmer, LED Light and Pump (Black, Premium All-in-One Kits)

The GankPike Aquarium Kit is a 12-gallon, U-shaped tank designed for saltwater fish, corals, and reefs. It features a back filtration area that ensures clean water, helping to maintain a healthy environment for your aquatic life. The included powerful water pump and protein skimmer work together to keep the tank spotless. An aluminum alloy LED light enhances the beauty of your fish and corals, offering three color modes and adjustable brightness to promote coral growth. This all-in-one kit makes setting up your saltwater aquarium easy and convenient for beginners.

What We Like
Ultra-clear glass for visibility
Effective filtration system
Adjustable LED lighting
Complete setup kit included
#TOP 8

PNW Custom 40 oz Micro Reef Aquarium

PNW Custom
MRRT
Black
PNW Custom 40 oz Micro Reef Aquarium Cover
PNW Custom 40 oz (Black) Micro Reef Ready Aquarium | Small Desktop Saltwater Fish Tank with LED Light, Sump, Pump | Freshwater & Saltwater

The PNW Custom Micro Reef Tank is a compact aquarium designed for both saltwater and freshwater environments. With dimensions of 5.7 inches in length, 3.7 inches in width, and 8 inches in height, it fits perfectly on your desktop. The tank holds a total of 40 ounces of water, with a display capacity of 28 ounces and a sump capacity of 12 ounces. The adjustable return pump, rated at 50 gallons per hour, ensures optimal water circulation. Additionally, the 10-watt LED light can be easily adjusted in height, allowing you to illuminate your aquatic setup effectively.

What We Like
Compact design for desktops
Adjustable water pump
Effective LED lighting
Freshwater and saltwater compatible
#TOP 9

Penn-Plax AquaSphere 360 Aquarium

AS360
clear
10 Gallons
Penn-Plax AquaSphere 360 Aquarium Cover
Penn-Plax AquaSphere 360 Large Bowl-Shaped Aquarium for Freshwater and Saltwater Setups – Fully Integrated Filtration System and LED Light Display - Durable Polycarbonate – 10 Gallons

The Penn-Plax AquaSphere Aquarium is an award-winning, stylish bowl-shaped tank suitable for both freshwater and saltwater setups. With its built-in LED lighting featuring 13 bulbs, you can easily create a captivating display with just a wave of your hand, eliminating the hassle of remotes. The integrated filtration system ensures clean and healthy water, while customizable media trays allow for enhanced filtration options. Plus, its durable polycarbonate construction means you can enjoy a clear view of your aquatic life from all angles, providing a unique and engaging experience for you and your guests.

What We Like
Integrated filtration system
Motion sensor LED lights
Durable polycarbonate material
Multiple size options
#TOP 10

Penn-Plax Luxury Aquarium with Stand

black
53 Gallon Cylinder
Penn-Plax Luxury Aquarium with Stand Cover
Penn-Plax Water World Luxury Large Cylinder Acrylic Aquarium with Built-in Stand and Storage Top – 360° View – Great for Freshwater and Saltwater Fish – 53 Gallons

The Penn-Plax Aquarium offers a remote-controlled LED light system with customizable colors and dimmable settings. It provides a 360-degree view of your fish, a top compartment for safe storage of electrical components, and a powerful water pump with a 5-stage filtration unit. The bottom drainage hose simplifies water changes, and there's a separate compartment for easy feeding.

What We Like
Customizable LED lights
360-degree view
Powerful water pump
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are saltwater fish tanks hard to maintain?

Saltwater aquarium in particular can be more expensive. And they are a bit more precarious to maintain than their freshwater counterparts. They generally require additional equipment, additional work during water changes and also require special lighting.

2. How much does it cost to get a saltwater fish tank?

Most people will probably spend $500 to $1000 for a brand new saltwater tank and all of the necessary supplies within the first year. Over the next 12 months, you can double that start-up cost to budget for fish, corals and new equipment.

3. How big of a tank do I need for saltwater fish?

Finally, the 40-gallon size is about the minimum tank size that will support juvenile versions of utilitarian fish that are critical to a new reefer's success and exactly why we recommend nothing less than 40 gallons for your first saltwater aquarium.

4. What kind of tank do saltwater fish need?

Many saltwater fish require large tanks such as 100 gallons or more, which can be overwhelming for a beginner. That is what makes the Damselfish such a good choice, as they only require a minimum tank of 30 gallons. They are also very hardy.

Editor's Notes

During our saltwater fish tank research, we found 24 saltwater fish tank products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 6,925 customer reviews through our big data system to write the saltwater fish tanks list. We found that most customers choose saltwater fish tanks with an average price of $196.15.

The saltwater fish tanks are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of saltwater fish tanks, including Fluval, GankPike, Ultum Nature Systems, HelloReef, PNW Custom. 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.