Not all fish tanks are created equal. The best fish tanks are a combination of the right size, material, and where you will place it. If you love fish as pets, you aren’t alone. The American Pet Products Association (APPA) reports that nine million people own freshwater fish, while another million own saltwater fish in the United States. 

Fish are popular pets for many reasons. They are lower maintenance than dogs and cats, ideal for people with space limitations, and great stress relievers. You don’t have to worry about grooming, cleaning carpets, or taking fish for a walk. Most ‘no pets allowed’ apartments make exceptions for fish owners. 

When considering a home aquarium, the American Veterinary Medical Association says the health of your fish is directly related to the health of their watery environment. When planning your aquarium, consider the available space, time limitations, and type of fish you want, and then determine the best fish tank needed. 

Our Picks

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Best Fish Tanks of 2024: 10 for Consideration

No two fish tanks are the same. Here’s what you should consider when purchasing a fish tank:

  • Material: Do you prefer glass or acrylic? Glass tanks for fish tend to be scratch-resistant and budget-friendly but tend to be heavy. Acrylic tanks are lighter and come in more shapes but are prone to scratches.
  • Weight and Placement: Filled fish tanks are quite heavy. For example, a filled 75-gallon tank may weigh close to 900 pounds. Your stand and flooring must be able to support the weight.
  • Size: Most beginner fish owners start with a 20- to 40-gallon tank. Larger tanks tend to dilute toxins better due to their size.
  • Saltwater or freshwater fish: Freshwater fish are best for beginners. Saltwater fish tanks contain vibrant fish but are best for experienced fish owners.
  • Filtration: All fish tanks should have some form of mechanical, biological, or chemical filtration. 
  • Lighting: Light is crucial for the health of your fish and to help any tank plants grow.

We included a variety of fish tanks on our list to accommodate every fish lover. You’ll notice a variety of shapes and sizes, too. Longer tanks give fish more swimming space, but they can be harder to clean and maintain. 

Fishkeeping allows for many different tanks, depending on your experience level and desire. Some prefer starting with a Betta fish before moving on to more elaborate setups. Beyond the fish, the art of aquascaping is very popular. This includes designing your fish tank’s plants, rocks, and decor.

Here are our top 10 favorite fish tank selections for your consideration. 

Best Overall Fish Tank

Our Pick: Marina Aquarium Kit 20 Gallon Fish Tank

Marina Aquarium Kit 20 Gallon Fish Tank
Buy at Chewy
Buy at Amazon

When it comes to the best fish tank for novices to experts, the Marina Aquarium Kit 20-gallon Fish Tank tops our list. This tank provides almost everything a fish aficionado needs to get started. It features a slim S20 clip-on filer, quick-change filter cartridges, long-lasting LED lighting, food, water conditioner, and more. Weighing in at 35 pounds before adding water, this glass freshwater tank is designed to house tropical freshwater, goldfish, cichlids, and betta fish. It makes a great gift for kids, anyone looking to upgrade from a smaller tank, or pros who need a replacement or additional tank. 

Highlights

  • This fish tank holds between 11 to 20 gallons of water.
  • Made of glass and designed for longevity. 
  • It arrives with many items, so you won’t need to make separate purchases.
  • The kit includes a 4” fine soft mesh net and an LCD thermometer.
  • It includes an easy-access feeding door to easily provide nourishment.
  • The sleek, low profile has a canopy with a rear cut-out for filter installation.
  • Marina is a well-established company in the aquarium space.
  • Also available in 5-gallon and 10-gallon sizes with all the amenities. 

Things to Consider

  • Some reviews indicate the filter is not silent.
  • It’s best for a novice but can be fine for an upgrade.

Most Modern 16-Gallon Fish Tank

Our Pick:  Coralife LED BioCube Aquarium Fish Tank Kit

Coralife LED BioCube Aquarium Fish Tank Kit
Buy at Chewy
Buy at Amazon

Take one part fish wonderland with one part modern and sleek look, and you’ve got the Coralife LED BioCube fish tank kit. Available in 16-gallon or 32-gallon sizes, the rounded-edge design is a classy take on a typical aquarium. It features a compact and customizable filtration chamber built right into the back of the aquarium. The 24-hour timer includes an automatic 30-minute sunrise/sunset and 60-minute moonrise/moonset functions, replicating your fish’s natural day and night cycle. It is designed for tropical freshwater or marine fish. 

Highlights

  • It features an integrated 24-hour time with three independent channels.
  • The hinged top makes it easy to access the aquarium.
  • The ability to control blue, white, and RGB LEDs separately. 
  • This tank is compatible with all BioCube accessories and stands.
  • It has a submersible pump, dual intakes, and adjustable return nozzles.
  • Designed for tropical freshwater or marine fish.
  • This tank can hold between 11 and 20 gallons of water. 
  • It weighs 35 pounds before water and is made of glass.

Things to Consider 

  • Some reviews indicate the filter is noisy.
  • It’s a bit on the pricey side.

Sleekest Plastic Aquarium Kit for Tropical Fish

Our Pick: Koller Products Plastic 6-Gallon AquaView 360

Koller Products Plastic 6-Gallon AquaView 360
Buy at Amazon

Made of impact-resistant plastic, this sleek 6-gallon fish tank from Koller Products makes a great starter kit. It features LED lighting with seven color selections, so you’ll never get bored. The internal power filter has a flow rate of 45GPH. This trendy aquarium is designed to be set up easily and maintained without much effort. Imagine relaxing and watching fish swim in this 11.5” wide x 19.5” high tank. As a bonus, you can set the LED light to come on at the same time every day or with the touch of your finger. Weighing in at 4.5 pounds before water, this fish tank also makes a great gift for a fish lover.

Highlights

  • The sleek design will look nice in any home decor.
  • It is made of impact-resistant plastic to prevent leaks.
  • A powerful internal filter purifies and cleans water at 45 gallons per hour.
  • Seven beautiful color selections to illuminate your fish.
  • The tank is ideal for betta fish and tropical fish.
  • Also available in 3-gallon and 2-gallon sizes.

Things to Consider

  • This is an ideal beginner tank.
  • Does not come with additional supplies other than those mentioned.

Best Small Fish Tank for Desktop

Our Pick:  biOrb Life 15 Acrylic 4-Gallon Aquarium

biOrb Life 15 Acrylic 4-Gallon Aquarium
Buy at Chewy
Buy at Amazon

Relax and unwind when you set this biOrb 4-gallon acrylic aquarium on your desk or table. What it lacks in height, it makes up for in beauty and functionality. If you love the look of a fishtank but do not have a lot of space, the biOrb has you covered. This aquarium is made of acrylic and designed to be 10 times stronger yet 50 percent lighter than glass. The long-lasting LED light has an easy on/off switch so you can choose when you want to use it. You get several extras in this kit including a quiet air pump, 12V transformer, filter, air stone, ceramic media, and starter water treatments.

Highlights

  • This tank is touted as 23 percent clearer than glass.
  • The compact 4-gallon size is ideal for tabletops or desktops.
  • This unit measures 11.25 x 7.4 x 15.5 inches.
  • The filter is conveniently located at the bottom of the aquarium. 
  • Includes a 5-stage filtration system for maximum efficacy. 
  • Comes with most everything you need to get started.
  • This aquarium comes with a 2-year warranty.
  • Comes with white LED lighting.

Things to Consider

  • This kit does not include a heater.
  • This 4-gallon tank is not designed to hold a lot of fish.

Best Betta Fish Tank

Our Pick:  Marina 1.3-Gallon EZ Car Plus Fish Aquarium

Marina 1.3-Gallon EZ Car Plus Fish Aquarium
Buy at Chewy
Buy at Petco

Betta fish owners will appreciate the no mess and no stress functionality of the Marina Betta Aquarium. This self-cleaning unit holds 1.3 gallons of water so you can watch your Betta fish swimming. The chic design is ideal for most decor, and the smaller size won’t take up much space. This aquarium is made of plastic and weighs four pounds. This makes a nice gift for a Betta fish lover, as it comes with a background and rocks. 

Highlights

  • Affordably priced fish tank for freshwater fish or Betta fish. 
  • It comes with a double-sided background and decorative pebbles. 
  • No need to get your hands wet thanks to the self-cleaning feature. 
  • When adding clean water, debris is flushed to the bottom of the tank.
  • Perfect gift as a starter tank.

Things to Consider

  • Some reviewers indicate this tank is best for a smaller Betta fish.
  • Do not put two male Betta fish together, as they will fight.

Best 20-gallon Fish Tank

Our Pick: Tetra Aquarium + LED Lighting and Decor

Tetra Aquarium + LED Lighting and Decor
Buy at Chewy
Buy at Amazon

For those pet parents in the market for a 20-gallon aquarium, the Tetra is a fine choice. It comes fully loaded with an LED hood, whisper quiet filter, UL heater, plant mat, and four artificial plants. Made of glass with plastic trim, Tetra is a well-known brand in the aquarium industry. This tank is best for freshwater fish and weighs nearly 35 pounds. With everything that is included, this 20-gallon fish tank from Tetra is nicely priced.

Highlights

  • Measures 24 x 12 x 16.5 inches.
  • Ideal for tropical freshwater fish or goldfish.
  • Quiet filter provides a powerful and dependable water flow.
  • The four provided artificial plants gives fish a place to hide.
  • Made in the United States. 
  • The LEDs are energy efficient and provide a natural daytime lighting effect.
  • Easy to maintain with user-friendly features.

Things to Consider

  • This kit does not come with gravel.
  • Some reviewers indicate the pump is a bit noisy.

Best 30-gallon Fish Tank

Our Pick: Aqueon LED 29-gallon Aquarium Kit

Aqueon LED 29-gallon Aquarium Kit
Buy at Petco

Close to 30-gallons, this 29-gallon aquarium kit is perfect to bring your fish world to life. The all-in-one set includes a power filter, filter cartridge, submersible preset heater, fish food sampel, water conditioner sample, fish net, thermometer, and set-up guide. When it comes time to feed your feed, there’s an easy-access front feeding door. This kit comes with a series of lights already fitted for the hood. The tank’s dimensions are 32.25”L x 14.25”W x 20.63”” H. The actual height of the tank with the hood on measures 19.5 inches. 

Highlights

  • Made of glass for longevity and durability.
  • Aqueon is a well-known brand in the aquarium industry.
  • Includes a quiet LED PRO power filter. 
  • This fish tank’s hood has a low profile. 
  • Nicely priced for everything that is included.

Things to Consider

  • Some of the included components are best for beginners.
  • Top is not hinged.

Best 75-gallon Fish Tank

Our Pick: Aqueon Standard Open Glass 75-Gallon Aquarium Tank

Aqueon Standard Open Glass 75-Gallon Aquarium Tank
Buy at Petco

If you are a dedicated fish aficionado, at some point you may want to upgrade to a larger tank. Aqueon has you covered with their 75-gallon open-glass aquarium. This fish tank is built to last with high-quality glass construction. This tank can house freshwater or saltwater fish, making it the ideal choice for any fish lover. Since it holds 75 gallons, it’s a big tank measuring 49 inches long x 21.25 inches high and 19.5 inches deep. It comes in black trim to meet all home decor needs.

Highlights

  • Clean silicone edges for a smooth, sleek look.
  • Big enough to allow many fish of either saltwater or freshwater variety.
  • Made of glass for longevity.
  • Some pet parents use this tank for reptiles or smaller species.

Things to Consider

  • Not eligible for sale in Alaska or Hawaii
  • Ensure you have a stand sturdy enough to accommodate a filled 75-gallon tank
  • This tank does not include a cover.

Best 150-gallon Fish Tank

Our Pick: Amer Thyst Rectangle Aquarium Tank

Amer Thyst Rectangle Aquarium Tank
Buy at Wayfair

Sometimes bigger is better, especially when it comes to the ultimate fish lover. This rectangular 150-gallon tank from Amer Thyst looks beautiful no matter where you house it. Made with 0.5-inch ultra-clear glass, it arrives 80 percent assembled. This aquarium can house marine life, coral, and aquatic plants. The multiple bottom filtration tanks and more filter media can be placed to simulate a natural ecosystem. The type of glass used allows for high light transmission so you see everything at a glance. Amer Thyst reports the 360-degree omni-filtration allows for up to a year without changing water. 

Highlights

  • This tank weighs 300 pounds to accommodate the large volume of water.
  • Overall measurements are 70” H X 59” W X 15.7” D.
  • It comes with a stand and canopy. 
  • Filter type is mechanical, biological, and chemical.
  • This tank is ideal for freshwater or saltwater fish.
  • This system comes with a canopy and waterpump.
  • The glass is scratch resistant and has a smooth feel.

Things to Consider

  • Some assembly is required. 
  • This unit does not come with lighting or shelves.

Best Aquarium Stand

Our Pick: Herture 20-29 Gallon Metal Frame Fish Tank Stand

Buy at Amazon

We are featuring a metal frame fish tank stand on our list for those interested. This unit from Herture Store is suitable for 20- to 29-gallon fish tanks, but they do offer a 5- to 10-gallon stand. Pet parents may choose to place a larger tank on top and a smaller tank on the lower portion of this stand. The weight capacity of this unit is 330 pounds for the desktop and 110 pounds for the button. It is made of thick stekk with a sturdy MDF board for durability and moisture resistance. In the middle of this stand is a cabinet for storing any of your fish supplies. The dimensions of this unit at 30.7” L x 16.8” W x 31.88” H make it ideal for most spaces. The feet are adjustable, so you can decide how high you want the stand to be for stability.

Highlights

  • Modern appearance makes it attractive in any decor. 
  • Helps keep your fish tank and supplies neat and tidy.
  • Sleek powder-coated finish. 
  • It comes with an accessory kit and assembly instructions.
  • This stand looks more expensive than it is.
  • Cabinet is self-closing for ease.

Things to Consider

  • Only available in black 
  • Measure the size of your tanks(s) prior to purchase.

What Fish Are Best For Me?

Now that you have a fish tank, you’ll want to fill it with the right fish. Decide the type of fish that you would like to own, and then go for it. A few things to consider:

  1. Research the fish species. Not all fish are compatible with each other, so start by understanding the types that can live in the same tank.
  2. Water parameters are important. Freshwater fish tend to be the easiest beginner fish, so think about how much time you have to devote to the hobby.
  3. Research fish behavior. For example, some fish like neon tetras prefer to live in groups. Are you ready to keep a tank of neon tetras? Bettas must live along or they will become territorial and stressed.
  4. Feeding requirements matter. Some fish are herbivores while others are ominivores or carnivores. Decide on the dietary needs you prefer to deal with.
  5. Fish Availability and health. Where you purchase your fish matters. Reputable stores and breeders that maintain well-stocked, clean tanks are generally a good place to start.

Enjoy your new tank of fish and have fun learning all about the wonderful world of aquariums.