13 best aquarium top filter

An aquarium top filter, also known as a hang-on-back (HOB) filter, is a popular and efficient filtration system used in fish tanks and aquariums. Here's what you need to know about aquarium top filters:

Placement: An aquarium top filter is typically attached to the back of the aquarium, hanging over the rim. This positioning allows for easy installation and maintenance while providing effective filtration.
Filtration Stages: HOB filters typically consist of multiple filtration stages, including mechanical, biological, and sometimes chemical filtration. These stages work together to remove debris, impurities, and harmful substances from the water.
Mechanical Filtration: The mechanical filtration component uses a sponge, foam, or filter pad to capture solid particles such as fish waste, uneaten food, and debris. This helps keep the water clear and prevents clogging of the filter.
Biological Filtration: Biological filtration in a top filter is provided by a porous media, such as ceramic rings or bio-balls. Beneficial bacteria colonize these media and break down harmful ammonia and nitrite into less toxic nitrate. This process is vital for maintaining water quality.
Chemical Filtration: Some HOB filters have a compartment for chemical filtration, where you can add filter media like activated carbon or specialized resins. These substances help remove impurities, odors, and other dissolved compounds from the water.
Water Flow: The water flow rate of an HOB filter can often be adjusted, allowing you to control the flow and oxygenation in the aquarium. This is important as different fish species may have varying water flow preferences.
Ease of Maintenance: Aquarium top filters are relatively easy to maintain. You can remove and clean the mechanical filter media when it becomes dirty. This should be done regularly to ensure the filter's efficiency. Biological media typically only needs to be rinsed with tank water to preserve the beneficial bacteria.
Versatility: HOB filters are suitable for a wide range of tank sizes, including 20-gallon tanks and larger.They are versatile and can be used in both freshwater and saltwater aquariums.
Noise Level: The noise level of HOB filters is generally low, making them a good choice for aquariums in bedrooms or quiet living spaces. The sound is typically limited to the sound of water trickling into the filter.
Accessories: Some HOB filters come with additional features, such as surface skimmers to remove organic matter from the water's surface or adjustable outflow nozzles to direct water flow as needed.
Cost-Effectiveness: Hang-on-back filters are often cost-effective compared to other types of filtration systems. They provide reliable filtration without the need for an external pump or plumbing.

In summary, an aquarium top filter (HOB filter) is a versatile and efficient filtration system that provides mechanical, biological, and sometimes chemical filtration for your aquarium. They are easy to install, maintain, and offer a cost-effective way to keep your aquarium water clean and healthy for your fish and other aquatic pets.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best aquarium top filter on the market

AquaClear Power Filter, Clip-On Aquarium Filter

AquaClear

Based on 12 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The AquaClear Power Filter represents one of the most versatile hang-on filter systems available. The five models available provide a complete selection of flow rates for the most popular sizes of aquariums. The filter’s unique design allows for up to six times more media volume and the longest water to media contact time in the industry. The AquaClear 50 Power Filter features a unique multi-stage filtration system that provides complete mechanical, chemical, as well as biological filter media for superior water quality. The Power Filter has a filtration volume that is up to 7 times larger than comparable filters. It also allows superior contact time with AquaClear filter media. The filter preserves beneficial bacterial creating a stress-free environment for fish aquarium inhabitants (freshwater fish and live aquarium plants) and maintaining clear aquarium water. Its unique waterfall design enables filtered water to return to the tank silently, gently breaking the surface tension and creating beneficial oxygenation. The Power Filter’s patented flow control feature allows you to adjust the water flow according to your aquarium needs. The media basket prevents water from bypassing the filter media, maximizing filtration efficiency. Installation and maintenance are quick, easy, and convenient. The filter comes equipped with AquaClear Foam, Activated Carbon Filter and AquaClear BioMax. AquaClear offers an extensive line of media, including Zeo-Carb and Ammonia Remover, exclusively designed for the AquaClear 50 Power Filter. AquaClear creates a wide variety of products for freshwater tanks that can be used as fish tank accessories, fish tank decorations, and aquarium filter media that is perfect for large and small fish tanks. The AquaClear 50 Power Filter is ideal for 20- to 50-gallon (76 to 190 L) fish tanks. Maximum Output: 200 U.S. Gal./h (757 L/h).

Aquarium filtration system that offers superior contact time with filter media and energy efficient pump lowers operating costs
Quick and easy installation, we recommend that you clean aquarium filter every 2 weeks for maximum operation and efficiency
Provides optimal mechanical, chemical, and biological filtrations
Comes equipped with AquaClear Foam, Activated Carbon Filter and BioMax and Cycle Guard for superior water quality
Filtration volume is up to 7 times larger than comparable fish tank filters
Lifetime warranty; ideal for aquariums up to 50 gallons

User questions & answers

Question:	Is it really loud? I already had to get rid of one filter brand because it was so noisy
Answer:	As long as you maintain your filter properly, the filter remains reasonably quiet. You do not need to change the impeller as often as one person commented. I have multiple AC 110’s for years and never had to replace the impeller at all. I have been using AquaClear filters for many years. When you maintain your filter, rinse the impeller off. Do not use anything abrasive or it will compromise its proper function by throwing it off balance as it spins during operation.
Question:	Will the 110 fit on over the 1-1/4" tank edge of my 70 gal tank
Answer:	13 1/2"L X 6 3/4"W X 9"H with 4" of its width behind the tank.
Question:	do you need to replace the filter media in time, and if so, how expensive is the whole kit
Answer:	Doesn't anybody read instructions? Change carbon filter after 1 month, change sponge after 2 months, change biofilter (little ceramic donuts) after 3 months. Never change more than one filter at a time which is impossible if you read their system - so at least 2 out of 3 times a month you'd be changing 2 filters. Charcoal filters should be changed monthly - they should also be removed if you are adding medication to the tank or it will soak up/deactivate medications. Personally I think you clean the sponge very well as needed - NO soap- just clean water, same with the donuts. Perhaps having you change so many filters so often is quite the moneymaking deal but not good for fish.
Question:	Would the 110 be overkill for a 36 gal goldfish tank? Would the 100 work just as well
Answer:	I run (2) 110's on a 90 gallon tank of exotic goldfish. That means I'm running 1000 gallons an hour through the filters on high. I've raised exotic goldfish for 50 years - goldfish are the DIRTIEST fish there are. They produce more ammonia than any other fish. These filters work great. I have some mini's - now called the 20's - which I have had for 35 + years, and they still run as well as the day I bought them. I ONLY USE AquaClear. Best filter out there! They last forever because there are no moving parts to break. There is only a magnetic impeller. In 50 years, I've only had to replace one intake tube that broke, and it was my fault! I tried a canister filter once, and quickly went back to my Hagen AquaClears. Easier to use, and as big as they are, you can use any kind of media in them that you want to use. You cannot go overkill on filtration for goldfish.

Top Fin CN-S Refill for CN10 Corner Filter 6 Count

Top Fin

Check latest price

Product description

Top Fin refill for Top Fin CN10 Corner Filter 6 count

Package Dimensions :
Date First Available :
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ASIN :

Top Fin Element Filter Cartridges

Top Fin

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Keep your aquarium clean and healthy with Top Fin's Element Filter Cartridges. These cartridges help absorb odors, pigments and chlorine with activated carbon. It's a great way to keep your aquatic friends happy and safe. Only at PetSmart. Features: Helps absorb odors, pigments, and chlorine with activated carbon, Easy to change Includes: Filter Cartridges Intended For: Top Fin Element Filter Size: 2.1 in L x 1.9 in W x 3.7 in H Instructions: Rinse the filter cartridge under cool tap water to remove dust. To help maintain a healthy aquarium, change the filter cartridge every 3-4 weeks, or if water flow becomes obstructed. Remove the cartridge when medicating the water as the carbon will absorb the medications. Change out 10% of the water weekly or 25% monthly. Caution: This is not a toy. Keep out of reach of children. Size: 6 Count

Top Fin Element Filter 6 count

User questions & answers

Question:	Does it work on 37 gallon top fin aquarium
Answer:	These are small filters for tanks 5 gallons or less. Check to see if Top Fin makes a filter for your tank. The quality of the filter is good, though.
Question:	Is this the Ef-s model? I have a three gallon topfin betta tank
Answer:	Yes this is the ef-s filters
Question:	Is this the replacement filters for model f
Answer:	This is compatible with the 3.5 gallon tank filter.
Question:	Will this filter fit the top fin® silenstream™ 30 power filter
Answer:	Yes. Fits Top Fin filters 20, 30, 40, and 75.

Top Fin Silenstream PF-S Small Filter Cartridges (6 Count) Refill for PF10 Power Filters (5.5in x 3.1in)

Top Fin

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Active carbon to help absorb undesirable odors, pigments, and chlorine
Top Fin Silenstream Power Filters 10
Product Dimensions: 5.5 in L x 3.1 in W

User questions & answers

Question:	Why do these cost over twice as much than at petsmart? you can get a 12 count of topfin pf-s for 12.99 at petsmart
Answer:	Dear Customer, Yes. You can use this air hose on a air hose reel. The quick coupler and plug on hose ends can be removed by a wrench. and the end thread is 1/4"-18 MNPT. Thank you.
Question:	Can I put two packages of charcoal in the filter
Answer:	Hy Donny I do not know the porter cable c2002 but the connections are universal so you can use these accessories with any type of compressor.
Question:	Why are these $10 more than PetSmart? Scalper prices
Answer:	Not sure but as far as I know they are universal. I have a ryobi and it works fine.
Question:	Is this the filter for the 10 gallon topfin tank
Answer:	Our fittings is 1/4", include the plug and coupler. And the diameter of air hose is also 1/4". Thanks.

Top Fin Silenstream PF-S Refill for PF10 Power Filters 5.5in x 3.1- (12 Count) 1 Year Supply

Generic

Based on 255 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Intended For Top Fin Silenstream Power Filters 10
Product Dimensions: 5.5 in L x 3.1 in W
Features Active carbon to help absorb undesirable odors, pigments, and chlorine

User questions & answers

Question:	Are they assembled
Answer:	Yes, they are ready to use.

Top Fin Retreat RF-S Filter Cartridges (Small) Refill for Desktop Aquariums with Small Retreat Filters - 8.1in x 1.9in (6 Count)

Top Fin

Based on 573 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Keep your aquarium's water clean and healthy with Top Fin RF-S Small Retreat Filter Cartridges. These cartridges are easily replaceable, and feature coconut shell activated carbon, which serves to absorb undesirable odors, pigments and chlorine. Advice for Use: To help maintain a healthy aquarium, change filter cartridge every 3-4 weeks, or if water flow becomes obstructed. Remove cartridge when medicating water as carbon will absorb medications. Change out 10% of the water weekly or 25% monthly. Use a water conditioner (sold separately) every time you add fresh tap water to your aquarium. Caution: Never use soap, detergents, or cleaning agents while cleaning the aquarium or equipment as they can harm your fish. This is not a toy. Keep out of reach of children.

Coconut shell activated carbon to help absorb undesirable odors, pigments and chlorine
Intended For: Top fin desktop aquariums with small filters
Product Dimensions: 8.1 in L x 1.9 in W (20.5 x 4.8 cm)
Color: White
6 MONTH SUPPLY

User questions & answers

Question:	Will this fit a 5 gallon tank
Answer:	This filter will fit the 3 gallons tank.
Question:	Will this filter fit in a 3.5 Topfin gallon tank
Answer:	Yes
Question:	is this the replacement for the bettaflo
Answer:	Depending on the size of your aquarium, it could use the RF-S or the EF-S.
Question:	Why is this package of filters $30 when the exact same filter can be purchased at PetSmart for less than
Answer:	It’s my point exactly what is this filter so extremely expensive I can also purchase it at Petsmart very reasonably I ordered 405 pumps none of them are parts are missing they don’t work at all now I have to take up valuable time in my life and I need you need to do gods work send them All that I’m taking time out of valuable life force one of the cruise was to be for someone in another country as a gift now I’ve lost my connection obviously I have to check everything I buy because lotta times it doesn’t work is quite expensive these filters like the person says I can purchase it sometimes for less and $14 thank you Willow Amazon you must be competitive I’m gonna go back to the stores enjoy talking with your employees throughout the world we do missionary sometimes

Top Fin EF-S Element Filter Cartridge Value Pack 12 Month Supply 2.1 in X 3.7 in

Top Fin

Based on 300 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Keep the water in your aquarium clean and safe for your fish with this value pack of Top Fin EF-S Element Filter Cartridges. The cartridges in this 12-month supply feature activated carbons, and have proven highly effective in removing waste, odors and more from your aquarium water.

FULL YEAR- With each cartridge lasting a month, this 12 count pack will last you up to one full year
ACTIVATED CARBON- Used to remove heavy metals, odors, pigments, and organic waste
REFILL-Refill for bettaflo filter and desktop aquariums with element filters
SIZE- 2.1 inches X 3.7 inches

User questions & answers

Question:	First time fish owner. The tank I have use 2 of these, I should replace both at the same time? once per month
Answer:	Depending on your tank size and how often you change your water both should be replaced at time of water change

Top Fin Тор Fіn Fіsh Тank Еlеmеnt Fіltег Сaгbоn Сaгtгіdgеs ЕF-S 6 Моnth Suррlу 2.1 х 3.7

Top Fin

Based on 243 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Keep the water in your aquarium clean and safe for your fish with this value pack of Top Fin EF-S Element Filter Cartridges. The cartridges in this 6-month supply feature activated carbons, and have proven highly effective in removing waste, odors and more from your aquarium water. Features: With activated carbon to help remove heavy metals, odors, pigments, and organic waste Refill for Top Fin BFS Bettaflo Filter and Desktop Aquariums with Element Filters 6 Count Includes: 6 Count Intended Pet(s): Fish Material(s): Carbon Color: White, Black Product Dimensions: 2.1 in L x 3.7 in W (5.3 x 9.3 cm)

User questions & answers

Question:	What type aquarium does this work with
Answer:	works with any compreesor with 1/8 to 1/4 fittings

Top Fin Silenstream Large PF-L Filter Cartridges Refill for PF30, PF40 and PF75 Power Filters 6.5in x 4.5in - (6 Count)

Top Fin

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Keep your aquarium cleaner and healthier with the Top Fin Silenstream Cartridge. This highly effective cartridge is perfect for Top Fin Power Filters, and contains active carbon to absorb undesirable odors, pigments and chlorine. Features: Active carbon to help absorb undesirable odors, pigments, and chlorine Caution: Never use soap, detergents, or cleaning agents while cleaning the aquarium or equipment as they can harm your fish. This is not a toy. Keep out of reach of children.

ACTIVATED CARBON to help remove odors, pigments and organic waste
REFILL for Top Fin Silenstream PF20, PF30, PF40 & PF75 power filters
DIMENSIONS: 6.5 in L x 4.5 in W
INSTRUCTIONS: Step 1--Remove used cartridge. Step 2--Rinse new cartridge under cool water to remove dust. Step 3--After rinsing, insert cartridge into filter chamber. Make sure cartridge fits completely into filter chamber.
ADVICE FOR USE: To help maintain a healthy aquarium, change filter cartridge every 3-4 weeks, or if water flow becomes obstructed. Remove cartridge when medicating water as carbon will absorb medications. Change out 10% of water weekly or 25% monthly. Use a water conditioner every time you add fresh tap water to your aquarium.

User questions & answers

Question:	Why is ur price si high
Answer:	We just use the Rapid AIr kit, so I am not sure on the difference.
Question:	I have a 3 gallon tank. Will these cartridges fit? If not do you sell the size needed
Answer:	No!!!! Using PVC with compressed air is basically creating a bomb.
Question:	Does this fit a 10 gallon tank
Answer:	It comes in a 100 foot coil. If you need more you can get it at 50 foot coils through Rapid Air. cut it at what ever length you need.
Question:	Are there any Smaller quantity packages
Answer:	The bracket and screws and the main unit Very will built item .

Top Fin Silenstream PF-L Refill for PF20, PF30, PF40 and PF75 Power Filters 6.5in x 4.5- (12 Count) 1 Year Supply

Top Fin

Based on 259 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Keep your aquarium cleaner and healthier with the Top Fin Silenstream Cartridge. This highly effective cartridge is perfect for Top Fin Power Filters, and contains active carbon to absorb undesirable odors, pigments and chlorine. Features: Active carbon to help absorb undesirable odors, pigments, and chlorine Caution:Never use soap, detergents, or cleaning agents while cleaning the aquarium or equipment as they can harm your fish. This is not a toy. Keep out of reach of children.

Intended For Top Fin Silenstream Power Filters 20, 30, 40, 75
Product Dimensions: 6.5 in L x 4.5 in W
Active carbon to help absorb undesirable odors, pigments, and chlorine

User questions & answers

Question:	How many boxes are we actually receiving? Is it 12 boxes of 12 filters each
Answer:	It is a single box with a 12 month supply. (12 filter cartridges)) Thank you.

Tetra Whisper Internal Filter 3 to 10 Gallons, for Aquariums, in-Tank Filtration with Air Pump, Blacks & Grays (25816)

Tetra

Based on 8 reviews Check latest price

Product description

For the ultimate in convenience and quiet, choose a Whisper In-Tank Filter. These filters mount on the inside of the aquarium, rather than hanging from the outside -- making it possible to place the tank flush against a wall. In-Tank Filters are unusually quiet, since the motor is under the water. Offering the same quality and performance as an external filter, the Whisper In-Tank Filter will function in as little as 2 inches of water -- making it ideal for turtle tanks, or for creating a waterfall inside the tank.The Whisper In-Tank filter features adjusts easily to high or low water levels with mounting suction cups and/or bracket. Each filter comes with one pre-assembled Whisper Bio-Bag filter cartridge.

UNIVERSAL DESIGN Tetra Whisper 20i Internal Filter is an all-in-one air pump and water filter system
INTERNAL FILTER Mounts on the inside of your aquarium with clip (included)
CATCHES DEBRIS Dense dual-sided mesh filters debris and fish waste
AERATES WATER Air-driven design filters up to 125 GPH while oxygenating water
CONVENIENT DESIGN Uses large easy to change Bio-Bag cartridges filter mounts inside aquarium making it possible to place tank flush against the wall

User questions & answers

Question:	Does this come with a filter cartridge
Answer:	Comes with the filter cartridge and bio-scrubber which works much better than previous models. I'm very happy with this filter. Have 2 turtles (that are very dirty) and it keeps my water crystal clear.
Question:	Would a small fish get sucked up in this filter? I have a 2 month old beta who is just recently getting color fins but still very small
Answer:	it would. Because the fish has to sleep. Unless you have a bigger tank, it will be sucked in when they fell asleep even if she is strong to swim away while awake. I would cover the water intake with filter mesh or unwanted nylon silk stockings
Question:	Where can I just get the Bioscrubber
Answer:	Hello. You can get it at a pet store, amazon has some, grocery stores with a pet section...they are pretty easy to find.
Question:	What size replacement filter cartridge for this unit...small, med
Answer:	The Tetra Bio-Bag Large (formerly known as Regular) are the exact same as the filter bag supplied with the Tetra Whisper In-Tank filter 20i. I got both from Amazon: filter $11.89; 12 cartridges $12.28. These filters last a long time, can be cleaned and reused. For my purpose, this filter has been great.

Product features

About Us

Tetra’s tradition of innovation started more than 50 years ago in Melle, Germany, where Dr. Ulrich Baensch founded the company (Tetra Werke) and pioneered the development of flake fish food - an innovation that revolutionized the industry. At the time, growing and harvesting food for your fish was a painstaking process. The advent of flake fish food not only made feeding your pet much easier. It opened the way for more people to own an aquarium. At Tetra, we’re dedicated to helping seasoned hobbyists and beginners alike enjoy a successful, life-long aquatic experience.

Penn-Plax Aquarium Canister Filter

Penn-Plax

Based on 6 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Cascade canister filters from Penn Plax offer heavy-duty multi-stage external filtration for your fresh or salt water aquarium. The cascade 1500 canister filter can handle aquariums up to 200 gallons efficiently providing up to 350 gph of flow. These filters allow you to combine the benefits of several types of media delivering powerful mechanical, chemical & biological filtration for crystal clear water in fresh or marine environments. Easy to install, these filters come with all the necessary accessories to connect to your tank and begin filtering in approximately 30 minutes and see visible improvement in less than a day a quick push-button primer makes start-ups easy and the two independent directional 360-degree rotational valve taps make placement worry-free. Flow-rate control valves and swimming pool-style hose clamps make setup and adjustment easy. The popular cobalt blue color will look attractive next to your tank and the sturdy rubber mounted tip-proof rubber base keeps the unit in place. Each pump comes with large filter trays, start-up filter media & input/output tubing. The large filter trays mean you can use more media and have longer periods between replacement. An air-tight seal assures proper flow rate while maintain ultra quiet operation. The easy-lift clamps make it simple to release the vacuum and remove the top for changing media or other maintenance. Directional returns help to suspend waste matter so it can be taken in by the filter leaving nothing but clear, clear water. Use any combination of media including bio-floss, bio-sponges, activated carbon and others to accomplish a wide array of aquarium filtration needs.

Quick easy push button self-primer
Independant 360 degree rotating valve caps
Sturdy tip-proof base
Flow rate cut-off valves adjust water flow

User questions & answers

Question:	yesterday i cleaned out my filter and i put it back on but it wont suck in water from the pipe there is no pressure even after i pump it. why
Answer:	I came home and my filter was not running. I have had this for a month and it was running great. I cleaned out the filter, etc. and cannot get it to prime. I feel like I have tried everything! I filled the canister with water and it will not prime. When using the prime button, the water goes up to a certain point but does not prime.. Help!
Question:	What is the difference between the 1000, 1200, and
Answer:	What the others said. Personally I would get the largest you can afford. More filtration is never a bad thing. The 1200 and 1500 use the same filter pads.
Question:	Will filter work for a 100 gallon tank for my red ear slider turtle
Answer:	Yes. I use this for my CST in a 55 gallon tank. This is a great filter. Remember, it is more about the media you use than the filter alone. Experiment with media to see what works best for you. For my turtle, I have found that layering sponges in the bottom tray from coarse, medium to fine and then using Matrix bio media in the next 2 trays and then using carbon and an ammonia neutralizing carbon in the last two trays works wonders. It really keeps my turtle tank clean. This filter is easy to use, prime and clean. Plus it is very affordable. All canister filters are basically equal, the media is what really matters.
Question:	Will this include an installation manual and all the tubings? I am new to canister filters and I want to know as much as possible before purchasing
Answer:	Yes, though you would do well to check out some YouTube videos demonstrating the setup, as well as the steps to take to disconnect the unit from the tubes for cleaning. The manual that comes with the filter is a great start, but a little unclear at times.

Product features

The Cascade Canister Filter Series

Cascade brand offers top aquarium filters for freshwater and marine environments. It offers intuitive set up, powerful, 3 stage filtration, and impressive reliability.

State of the Art Flow Valves

The flow valves of the Cascade line of filters rotate 360 degrees for easy maneuvering in even the tightest aquarium cabinets.

Large Capacity Media Baskets

Extra large media baskets allow aquarists to customize their media needs to their heart’s content.

Easy Push Button Primer

Push button primer allows you to quickly and easily prime the filter with just a few presses.

Also Includes

Comes with a Spray Bar, Tubing, Directional Spout for full customization and Filter Medium so you're ready to start using your Cascade Filter today.

Cascade Canister Filters by Penn-Plax

Easy to install filters come with all necessary accessories to connect to your tank and begin filtering in approx. 30 minutes & see visible improvement in less than a day. A quick push-button primer makes start-ups easy and 2 independent directional 360-degree rotating valve taps makes for easy placement. Flow-rate control valves & pool-style hose clamps make setup & adjustment easy. The sturdy rubber mounted tip-proof rubber base keeps the unit in place.

Each pump comes with large filter trays, start-up filter media & input/output tubing. The large filter trays mean you can use more media & have longer periods between replacement. An air-tight seal assures proper flow rate while maintain ultra quiet operation. Directional returns help to suspend waste matter so it can be taken in by the filter leaving nothing but clear, clear water. Use any combination of media including bio-floss, bio-sponges, activated carbon and others to accomplish a wide array of aquarium filtration needs.