Budget aquariums are a great way to bring life and energy into your space without spending much money. Of course, it’s important to consider other factors and things you need to be a successful fishkeeper.
Still, normally, the most expensive thing when starting a new aquarium is the actual tank itself. The good news is that when it comes to budget aquariums, several solid options come as a starter kit and contain everything you need to get started.
Even though you’re looking for an aquarium on a budget, don’t fret over sacrificing style. Our top pick, the MarineLand Portrait Glass LED Aquarium Kit, has a 5-gallon tank — perfect for budding aquarists and fishkeepers.
The most common problem with budget aquariums is that they normally won’t have many built-in features. While some features are a given, such as a light system, filtration system and hood with a feeding door, some other important features will need to be bought separately.
You will likely have to purchase a heater, especially if you plan on keeping a betta fish as well as anything that you want to create your aquascape, such as live or fake plants, hardware or driftwood and the substrate of your choice.
Most budget aquariums will be smaller, making them great for kids, kitchen counters or office spaces. You can expect to find budget aquariums that are 5 gallons at the largest and 1-2 gallons at the smallest.
If you plan on having a community tank or a tank with multiple fish, be prepared to spend more money on a larger tank. Betta fish will need a lot of space to be healthy and happy, although they are not community fish.
The main difference between these two classifications, outside of the price point, normally shows itself in the size and built-in features of the aquarium. It is always recommended to start small when it comes to fishkeeping, so buying a budget aquarium is a solid move for novice aquarists.
The most important thing to look for in a budget aquarium is what features it comes with. Most standard budget aquariums will at least have a hood, a filtration system and LED lighting. If an aquarium does not come with these features, avoid buying it. Instead, finding a budget aquarium with more than just the standard features is best.
Most budget aquariums are designed with novice aquarists in mind and will come with everything you need to get started. However, do not be misled, as not all aquarium starter kits are made equal.
For example, the Marineland Portrait Glass LED Aquarium is advertised as a kit even though it only comes with things you need for the tank’s filtration system. Other kits may include things such as substrate and a few tank decorations.
Even when shopping for an aquarium on a budget, always consider how the look and aesthetic of the aquarium will work with your space. Most budget aquariums, such as the Tetra Crescent Aquarium or the Aqueon LED MiniBow Aquarium, will incorporate plastic into their design. If you are looking for a tank with a more minimalistic design, consider an aquarium made mostly of glass, like the Tetra LED Cube Aquarium.
Budget aquariums are about $40-$60.
A. Most budget aquariums that are 3-5 gallons in size can accommodate either one betta, one goldfish or up to three small community fish.
A. This will depend on the type of fish you choose to keep. Bettas and other tropical fish need a heater to stay healthy. Goldfish and guppies are hardier and don’t mind colder water, so they don’t need a heater.
MarineLand Portrait Glass LED Aquarium Kit
What you need to know: This stylish tank is unrivaled as a budget aquarium. Its sleek aesthetic is perfect for use in a modern home or office setting.
What you’ll love: The kit comes with everything you will need for the filtration system, and the LED lights are powerful enough to give live plants and fish the light they need.
What you should consider: If you plan on keeping shrimp, you need to cover the inlets to the filter.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Tetra LED Cube-Shaped Aquarium
What you need to know: This 3-gallon aquarium is beautifully designed and is particularly great for betta fish.
What you’ll love: The cube, minimalist design is very attractive and will look beautiful no matter where it’s placed.
What you should consider: The filter is very strong and may be dangerous for small fish or fish with long fins, such as male bettas.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Marineland Contour Glass Aquarium Kit with Rail Light
What you need to know: This 3-gallon cube aquarium is sleek and minimalist. It’s perfect for use in offices.
What you’ll love: The cube design is excellent for aquascapes that feature one large piece of hardware, such as driftwood or an aquarium statue.
What you should consider: Some users have stated that the LED lights are not bright enough to keep live plants, but this can be avoided by placing the tank where it can get some natural sunlight.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Addison Hoggard writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
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