10 Best Acrylic Aquariums – Reviews & Top Picks
- May 27, 2023
- By Dr. Barry Buttler
In the United States, about 15 million households keep fish as pets, with freshwater fish predominating the market.
Having an aquarium offers health benefits and keeps your aquatic friends in an environment where they can thrive, even if you don't plan on cuddling them.
The first thing you will notice when looking for an aquarium is how many options there are. Since the date of the fishery, the business has progressed significantly.
Traditionally, glass was the material of choice. It is true that acrylic items come in a wide variety of styles and forms.
The information in the BestForPets (bestforpets.org) will assist you in making an informed decision about which product is right for you, including a thorough examination of the pros and cons of each options and the best acrylic aquariums.
How to Choose the Finest Acrylic Fish Tank
You used to be able to pick between a rectangle tank and a square tank. Having a wide range of components in standard sizes made it simple to arrange your equipment to your liking. The introduction of acrylic has altered the status quo. These days, aquariums come in a wide variety of forms and sizes, and many of them have elaborate decorations. It’s more than simply a glass tank on a wrought-iron stand now.
For this reason, you may encounter items that defy standard sizing. One reason aquariums are sometimes marketed in sets rather than simply the tank alone. In today’s market, you may be limited to purchasing only one brand’s offerings if you select for a proprietary design. This means that the whole product, including its parts, must be checked very carefully. Factors to think about:
- Type
- Material
- Dimensions and form
- Access
- Accessories.
Type
Type refers to the fish species that can be maintained in the aquarium. Goldfish and tropical freshwater fish are the primary targets of most merchandise. Problems with scratching are a common complaint about acrylic. Thus, a saltwater environment is not recommended for this substance.
Material
In comparison to glass, acrylic has several benefits. Since it can be shaped, you’ll find an extremely diverse selection of things made from it. That prioritizes form over function.
You may not have given as much thought to design while choosing a glass tank. This information is perfect for you if you’re seeking variety in your reading. The fact that it weighs almost to nothing is also a major plus. A glass tank, even a little one, will be rather heavy.
Unfortunately, acrylic costs more than glass does. It’s readily apparent when you begin comparing prices. Acrylic, in contrast to glass, may be scratched. You should take care with the cleaning tools you use to avoid scratching the surface. The size of these tanks, and whether or not they can be carried to a sink, is an additional consideration.
Dimensions and Form
Acrylic excels in the areas of form and scale. Options for these characteristics are plentiful. Manufacturers frequently include improved visibility into their product designs.
That way, your aquarium may be the center of attention in a space where it can be appreciated by everybody. There will be more sizes available, including those that aren’t the norm. If you have a designated spot in mind for your aquarium but just a little amount of room, this is fantastic news.
This also implies that you may acquire stylish furnishings for your home or workplace. No longer are fish tanks confined to the abode of the young. Different sizes might provide hobbyists with more options.
Access
Once the tank is in place, you should make sure that it can be reached without too much trouble. Some items’ unusual forms make it more difficult to access the tank’s inside and perform maintenance.
First, measure the aperture to ensure it’s large enough to fit your hand and any equipment you want to use. And remember that while you consider other locations for the aquarium.
Accessories
Earlier, we discussed the increasing popularity of do-it-yourself aquarium kits. Given the possible lack of conventional sizing, it’s important to double-check what comes with your order.
However, sometimes producers are cheap with the extras they throw in. While it may seem like a good idea to get an acrylic tank that claims to have everything you need, this is not always the case. You will have to replace some of them eventually.
Conclusion
After extensive testing, we found that BiOrb FLOW LED Aquarium is the clear winner. But if you’re looking for the best bargain, the Aqueon LED MiniBow SmartClean Aquarium Kit is what you need.
BestForPets (bestforpets.org) has a wide selection of the best acrylic aquariums for beginners. Some of these aquariums are used by professional aquarists.
Reviews
The biOrb FLOW LED Acrylic Aquarium Is the Best Option Out There
- Both 4 and 8 gallon capacities are available.
- The item’s dimensions are 8.2″ in length, 11.8″ in width, and 12.4″ in height (4 gallons)
- Light: LED
- Substrate, air stone, air pump, filter, cartridge, and water conditioner are examples of ancillary products.
If you’re looking for the greatest acrylic aquarium, go no further than the biOrb FLOW LED Aquarium. Having three sides to observe from, it is a design that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional.
The black finishing touches and top really help sell the product for what it is: a high-quality, stylish piece of furniture. It has an LED light and a 5-stage filtering system. Additionally, it is equipped with an air stone that improves the surface’s gas exchange.
However, a heater is not included in the package. Happily, there is already one on the market that can accommodate the aquarium. Since it has a small profile, setting it up is a breeze. It would look great in your home or workplace.
Pros
- Nice looking layout
- Filtration in 5 Stages
- Well-made
- LED lighting fixture
- Improve gas exchange using an air stone.
Cons
- Pricey
- Icy cold
The Aqueon LED MiniBow Aquarium Kit is the Best Option.
- Gallonage: 2.5 or 5
- The product’s measurements are 11.875″ x 9.8″ x 11.9″ (2.5 gallons)
- Dimmable under-hood LED lights
- Filter, hood, water conditioner, and fish food are all necessary accessories.
The Aqueon LED MiniBow SmartClean Fish Aquarium Kit stands out because of its ingenious design that conceals all of the operating parts so that you can just enjoy your pets.
It’s popular because guests can observe fish from every angle. According to our research, this is the most functional and affordable acrylic aquarium available.
There is a larger size available, but this one is fine for a beginner. Keeping a couple of goldfish in there won’t be a problem at all.
Frequent maintenance is required for small tanks. With the aquarium’s built-in power filtration, cleaning is a breeze. No heating system is included, which is a drawback. Acrylic will provide better insulation than glass would.
Pros
- Effortless style
- 360° views
- Simple upkeep
- It comes in two different sizes.
Cons
- Icy cold
Premium Option: SeaClear Hexagon Acrylic Aquarium
- Quantity Holding Capability: 10-50 Gallon
- Its measurements are 36″ in length, 12″ in width, and 16″ in depth (26 gallons)
- Light: Fluorescent
- Accessories: n/a
The unconventional shape of the SeaClear Flat Back Hexagon Acrylic Aquarium demands attention. Depending on your perspective, something might be seen as a boon or a burden.
We did enjoy that the design allowed us some unique perspectives. However, it is more difficult to get to the interior, even while feeding your fish. Surprisingly, it’s not an LED light, but a fluorescent one. The high cost suggests that it is also an investment.
The acrylic, on the plus side, is so transparent that it seems to invite physical contact. In conclusion, this tank would be a great centerpiece for a living room.
Pros
- Perspectives that are worth exploring
- Transparent acrylic
- Sizes range greatly.
Cons
- Expensive
- Inconveniently placed
Fish Tank Supplies: Tetra Crescent Aacrylic Aquarium Set
- There are two sizes available, holding either 3 or 5 gallons.
- Physical Description: 16.6″ L x 11.2″ W x 13.2″ H (5 gallons)
- Light: LED
- Components: bulb, filter, and cartridge
If you or your child are interested in taking the plunge into fish ownership, the Tetra Crescent Aquarium Kit is a great way to do it at an inexpensive price.
All the fundamentals to get you going are there. The fish is the focal point of the design, which features a curved front and no visible seams. There’s no denying that some people won’t like that function. The LEDs are not noticeable because of the concealed light. If you want to feed your fish, you’ll find an entrance there, but no lid.
Clearly, the target audience for this product is newcomers. The filter works adequately. However, if you’re not looking to spend a lot of money, it’s a good choice.
Pros
- No apparent stitching
- Aesthetically pleasing layout
- Invisible Lights
Cons
- It’s cold as ice, and there’s no heat
- No lid
An Acrylic Globe Aquarium with a 35-Inch iOrb Tube
- Depending on your needs, you may choose between a 4 gallon and 9 gallon capacity.
- Size: 14.60 cm (L) x 14.60 cm (W) x 17.30 cm (H) (9 gallons)
- Which is better, LEDs or MCR bulbs?
- Water conditioner, bacteria starter, and filter accessories.
At first sight, the iOrb Tube 35 Aquarium’s price tag seems high. One distinct benefit of this material over glass is the ability to see all around you, as the cylindrical form exemplifies.
Excellent care was taken in producing this item for the benefit of pet owners around. Its filtering technology, which combines mechanical and biological elements, allows it to make efficient use of the little water available.
The package includes both a light and a water purifier. The unexpected inclusion of the starting microorganisms was a nice touch. Even though it’s not the best tank for a new fish owner, it offers everything your aquatic pets need to thrive.
Pros
- With 5 levels of filtration,
- 360-degree perspective
- Formalism in its own right
Cons
- Pricey
- Expensive
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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