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10 Best 20-Gallon Rimless Aquariums – Reviews & Top Picks

From the days of a single goldfish in a bowl, aquarium construction has come a long way.

Today's underwater landscapes can be as intricate as works of art, with vibrant fish and beautiful plants. Aquarium owners who value the aesthetics of the tank as much as they do their fish and other aquatic life may opt for a rimless model.

Rimless aquariums, as opposed to conventional tanks, offer a smooth, clean look that complements modern interiors. In addition, you can see everything going on in the aquarium without any obstructions.

BestForPets (bestforpets.org) will tell you if this sounds like the kind of fish farming you want. We've compiled reviews of the best 20-gallon rimless aquariums currently available.

Before you start setting up your aquarium, be sure to read our reviews of these tanks and our helpful buyer's guide!

How to Choose the Finest 20-Gallon Rimless Aquarium (a Buyer's Guide)

Now that you know what kinds of rimless aquariums hold 20 gallons, here are some things to think about.

Acrylic vs Glass

Whether you want a glass or acrylic aquarium is one of the first decisions you’ll have to make. Aquariums made of glass are more durable, sturdy, and long-lasting than those made of other materials.

To begin, acrylic is more durable and less fragile than glass. Better visibility of your aquarium residents is another benefit. However, the acrylic’s original clarity gradually diminishes and turns yellow with use.

The Size of Tanks

Rimless aquascaping is as as good as its components, so make sure you pay attention to size and shape. The size of the aquarium will have an impact on the materials available for hardscaping and planting.

In addition to thinking about where in your house you want to put the tank, you’ll need to think about how big it is. Will it be something to put on a desk or a bookshelf?

Condition of the Edges and the Seals

A glass aquarium’s edge construction is something to keep in mind if you go with one of these. If the aquarium will be in a location where children or dogs may access it, a glass tank with rounded corners is preferable.

In the absence of beveled edges, an acrylic tank may be a better option.

Because there is no need for additional support on the edges of a rimless aquarium, it may be placed in tighter spaces than a conventional tank. High grade edge sealing is essential because of this property.

Even if your new tank has received rave reviews, you should still check for leaks over a tile or other easily cleaned surface.

Conclusion

The Lifeguard Crystal Bookshelf Aquarium is an advanced, high-quality tank made to look lovely on a shelf; it is the largest rimless aquarium in its 20 gallon class.

SeaClear Acrylic is our top pick for its affordable price and the fact that it’s both lightweight and extremely durable. BestForPets (bestforpets.org) reviews of these best 20-gallon rimless aquariums are meant to help you make an informed decision when you’re starting a hobby, covering both the design of the aquarium as well as the side fish in it.

Reviews

The Best Aquarium, Hands Down, Is the Lifeguard Crystal Bookshelf

  • Length x Width x Height: 40″ x 14″ x 14″
  • Quantity hold: 22 gallons
  • Material: Glass

According to our research, the Lifeguard Crystal Bookshelf Aquarium is the finest 20-gallon rimless aquarium overall. This beautiful, transparent aquarium is just the right size for a bookshelf, enabling you to display your aquatic scenery right at people’s level if you so want.

The low-iron glass used in its construction is strong and durable, and it is precisely cut so that it looks modern and chic. An egg crate mat may be necessary if your aquarium has substantial hardscaping, despite the use of a foam mat.

Only use in non-saline situations, please. The quality of this aquarium has been praised by users, however some have pointed out that it is on the pricier side.

Pros

  • Solid build quality
  • Mat for leveling included.
  • Iron-reduced glass

Cons

  • Extra balancing may be necessary.
  • Expenses are higher

 

SeaClear Acrylic Aquarium Set Bundle – Top Pick!

  • With a length of 24 inches and a width of 13 inches and a height of 16 inches,
  • 20 gallon capacity
  • Material: Acrylic

The SeaClear Acrylic Aquarium Combo Set is our top pick for the best 20-gallon rimless aquarium on a budget. The included light fixture and reflector make this aquarium suitable for both saltwater and freshwater aquarium setups. This tank, unlike many others without rims, has a cover.

There were complaints of a poor fit from certain customers due to warping at the top of the tank. The acrylic material used in place of glass in this rimless tank makes it more durable, lightweight, and transparent. A transparent rear panel is standard, however other colors are available upon request for the Sea Clear tank.

Users have complained that the provided light is dim and that they had a hard time acquiring a replacement bulb. One of the biggest reasons customers recommend this tank is because of the lovely, clear view of their tank’s occupants.

Pros

  • Clearly visible tank
  • Much less cumbersome than the heavy panes of glass
  • Includes a cover

Cons

  • The lighting that is built in is subpar.
  • Inconsistent warping at the tank’s peak

 

The Ultimate Ultra Clear Rimless Aquarium by Nature’s Systems is an Excellent Option

  • A size reference would be: (L x W x H) 11.8 (inches) x (35.4 (inches) x (11.8) inches
  • A whopping 21 gallons’ worth of storage space!
  • Material: Glass

In terms of aesthetics, the long and low profile of the Ultum Nature Systems Ultra Clear Rimless Aquarium makes it a prime choice. This aquarium is less than a foot in height, making it ideal for displaying your aquascape along a long shelf. 

This aquarium has a 91 percent clarity because to its low-iron glass construction and mitered 45-degree edge beveling. A silicone sealant made for aquariums is used to seal the edges. This tank’s unconventional proportions make it an excellent option for the ambitious aquarist who wants to make a statement with their aquarium.

This stunning aquarium is less affordable than similar models, but its admirers praise its high quality and design regardless of whether it will be used for saltwater or freshwater fish and plants.

Pros

  • Particular features
  • Crystal clear to 91 percent
  • Affixed with a silicone rim

Cons

  • Soaring cost

 

Rimless, low-iron glass aquarium with a landed design

  • Overall, it measures 23.62 inches in length, 15.75 inches in width, and the same height.
  • Having a 23-gallon capacity means that
  • Material: Glass

The Landen Rimless Low Iron Tank is crafted by hand and has robust seals and finely honed edges. Views through the front and side panels are unimpeded by obstruction because to the glass’s 91 percent transparency and high light transmission.

It does not come with a top and may only be used for freshwater aquascapes. It has been reported that some saavy buyers have gotten their own coverings made by independent glass shops.

In the bottom right corner of this tank is a logo that might be distracting. Users, however, have reported that the logo may be removed with minimal effort. The majority of reviewers are satisfied with this tank, and many have bought it many times.

Pros

  • Constructed to the highest standards
  • View from every angle
  • Clarity at 91%

Cons

  • Visible logo at the bottom right corner.
  • Doesn’t have a cover

 

Southern California’s One-Stop Aquarium Shop

  • Length x Width x Height: 24 x 15 x 15
  • Twenty-four gallons is the maximum capacity.
  • Material: Glass

The SC Aquariums All-In-One comes equipped with both an overflow box and a return pump for instant usage. Only three sides of the tank are visible due to the built-in chamber.

This may live in either saltwater or freshwater environments. This aquarium comes without a lid, as do many similar rimless tanks.

The incorporated pump was much-appreciated for its practicality, but many users complained about its noise. A leveling pad is not included with the tank and must be bought separately. While buyers have highlighted some issues with the tank’s edges and seals, they generally agree that it’s an excellent buy.

Pros

  • Excellent buy
  • Simple assembly using the included pump.
  • Applicable to both marine and freshwater environments.

Cons

  • A loud pump is included.
  • However, there is neither a cover nor a base.

Author Image

Dr. Barry Buttler

Dr. Barry Buttler, DVM, MS, DACVIM, is an experienced veterinarian who specializes in the care of small animals, specifically dogs. Dr. Barry K. Buttler is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association and holds multiple certifications in small animal emergency medicine and geriatric pet health.

Veterinarian (DVM) Dr. Barry Buttler

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