Top 15 Best Filters for Turtle Tanks in 2023

If you love turtles as I do, then you probably have a few of them at home with you. Turtles are adorable creatures, and just like any other aquatic animal, then need a conducive environment to live in for them to thrive well. While fishes wouldn’t mind a bit of mess in their living space, turtles, on the other hand, need extra caution when planning their living area.

You will need to set them in a large tank, so they can have enough room to swim, plus you need to get rid of all the debris that accumulates day in and day out. For this purpose, you will need a filtration system that is capable of keeping the place clean. While you may not have a lot of information to help you with shopping for a turtle tank filter, I have taken it upon myself to provide you with all the information you need to find the best buy.

I have reviewed some of the best brands of filters for a turtle tank, and also included a buyer’s guide and answered some questions you may have, so you get all the necessary support you need to arrive at the best product for you. Without any further delay, let’s get straight into the review.

Turtle Tank Filter Comparison Chart 2023

The table below shows an overview of the critical features of the best turtle tank filters in this review, and you can find a detailed guide after the table.

Which Are The Best Filters for Turtle Tanks To Buy?

You can find below the complete list of the best turtle tank filters that you can find in the market. They have been outlined and differentiated according to their usefulness.

• Best Versatile Option – Marineland Magniflow Canister Filter
  “This canister filter comes with a three-stage filtration system that is powerful enough to work for all types of aquatic tank environment.”
• Best for Small Tank – Hygger Quiet Aquarium Filter
  “The Hygger filter is suitable for 2-20 gallon aquariums, which makes them best for those with a small turtle tank.”
• Best for Large Tank – Fluval Canister Filter
  “The Fluval canister filter can serve aquariums up to 400 gallons, making them suitable for those with a large turtle tank.”
• Best for Low-Budget – Aqueon Quietflow Internal Power Filter
  “The Aqueon Quietflow is equipped with powerful three-stage filtration and goes for less than $50.”
• Best for Pet Gift – Penn Plax Aquarium Filter
  “The Penn Plax is suitable for freshwater and marine environments and is one of the most durable filters out there, making it a great choice for a pet gift.”
• Best Quiet Option – Tetra Whisper Silent Filter
  “The Tetra Whisper operates quietly compared to external filters, and it is easy to install and has a high-performance rating.”
• Best Overall – Tetra Decorative Retro Filter
  “The Tetra Decorative comes with a combination filter and waterfall and features a natural stone appearance that can improve any turtle tank.”
• Best Internal Filter Option – Zilla Internal Filter
  “The Zilla filter features a patented power filtration that efficiently cleans all the debris from the water.”
• Best Water Pump Filter – Zision Water Pump and Filter
  “You get a pump that also functions as a filter that is well suited for any type of aquarium.”
• Best Value for Money – Marineland Penguin Power Filter
  “You get an excellent biological filtration system that is available in different sizes, so you can always find one that fits your budget.”
• Best Underwater Filter – Ovation 1000 Submersible Power Jet Filter
  “It features a high-tech dual filter design that can filter up to 265 gallons per hour, and is perfect for underwater filtration.”
• Best Canister Filter – Zoo Med Turtle Clean External Filter
  “It comes with a three-stage filtration system that is suitable for aquariums up to 15 gallons.”
• Best Advanced Filtration System – Fluval G3 Advanced Filtration System
  “You get a powerful filtration system that works well for both freshwater and marine environments.”
• Best External Filter Option – Polar Aurora External Aquarium Filter
  “With the Polar Aurora, there is no need for siphoning off the water, and you get a system that is super easy to maintain.”
• Best Low Water Level Filter – LONDAFISH Turtle Water Filter
  “You get a device that is suitable for low water level filtration and also features a waterfall as well.”

Top 15 Best Filter for Turtle Tank Reviews 2023

Below you can find all the juicy and not so juicy details about 15 of the top filters for a turtle tank, so if you are a pet owner and looking to buy one, then you want to stick around till the end of the piece, it could turn out to be worth it.

1. Marineland Magniflow Canister Filter

(Best Versatile Option)

The Marineland Magniflow is a quality canister filter that features a polishing filter pad that is suitable for cleaning fine debris. Aside from the filter pads, the device comes fitted with all forms of innovative filtration kits that can do the job in any kind of aquarium. So whether you are shopping for a turtle, fish, or frog, then you know you got one that will make it work.

The ceramic rings and bio-filter balls help to encourage the growth of bio spires, and the black diamond carbon reduces odor and discoloration within the tank. It is suitable for aquariums with a capacity of up to 30 gallons and can filter as much as 220 gallons per hour, so you get a super-duper device.

Key Features:

• Supports tank size of 30 gallons
• Canister type of filter
• Three filter media installed

Product Specifications:

Aquarium Capacity	30 gallons
Dimensions	12.2 x 9.17 x 13.62 inches
Weight	10.58 pounds
GPH	220
Number of filters	3-filters
Warranty	3 years

2. Hygger Quiet Aquarium Filter

(Best for Small Tank)

If you are shopping for a filter for a tank that can hold less than 20 gallons of water, then this one from Hygger should be well suited for you. The internal aquarium filter can provide up to 110 gallons of filtration per hour, and it comes with a submerged motor that allows for underwater cleaning. It can also work in a variety of aquariums apart from your turtle tank. You can also get it to work as a filter for a beta tank or a fish tank, and installation isn’t much of a problem.

There is a two-stage filtration system that keeps the water crystal clear, providing a healthy environment for your pet turtle. Plus, it also reasonably priced, and for a little filter, it seems to do more than expected. There is also the fact that it works quietly, so if you don’t need all that noise around your pet turtle, then you may want to consider grabbing this one.

Key Features:

• Supports 20-gallon tank
• Dual filter media installed
• Submerged motor

Product Specifications:

Aquarium Capacity	20 gallons
Dimensions	6.8 x 2.4 x 1.6 inches
Weight	12.20 pounds
GPH	110
Number of filters	2-filters
Warranty	–

3. Fluval Canister Filter

(Best for Large Tank)

Now, if you are shopping for a device for a large tank that can accommodate up to 400 gallons of water, then you may want to set your eyes on this one from Fluval. It filters a multi-stage filter that is sure to do some thorough cleaning in that much volume of water. It comes with a smart pump technology that keeps everything working without much need for supervision.

The device can pump out up to 965 gallons of water in an hour, and it comes with a three-stage filtration, so you can expect that your turtles will only get the freshest of water to bathe in. It works as an under unit that needs to be fitted at the base of the aquarium for you to get it to work. The rubbers fitted to the feet helps to reduce the noise and vibrations when the device is in operation. The purge valve and drain hose make for easy maintenance of the system, so you can be sure that you get a machine that proves to be efficient and long-lasting.

Key Features:

• Works for 400 gallon tanks
• Three filter media installed
• Noiseless device

Product Specifications:

Aquarium Capacity	400 gallons
Dimensions	15 x 15 x 20 inches
Weight	19.95 pounds
GPH	965
Number of filters	3-filters
Warranty	–

4. Aqueon Quietflow Internal Power Filter

(Best for Low-Budget)

The Aqueon power filter is suitable if you need a good enough turtle tank filter that doesn’t cost much and isn’t crappy too. Although it sells for less than $100, it does come with features that make it comparable to some of the expensive brands out there. So you will be saving a lot with this one even though it doesn’t look like much; it does pack a pretty good punch. It isn’t much really, but it is a good catch for a 10-gallon tank.

It is easily submersible in a horizontally or vertically inclined position, depending on how you prefer to use it. The return flow rate is adjustable so that you can alter the height or direction of the flow. It comes with three-stage filtration, so you can expect that all debris, toxins, odors, and discoloration will be taken care of. There is a limited lifetime warranty when you buy from Aqueon or any of their accredited retailers, so you want to confirm this before you make payments.

Key Features:

• Works for 10 gallon tanks
• Three filter media installed
• Limited lifetime warranty

Product Specifications:

Aquarium Capacity	10 gallons
Dimensions	2.8 x 1.5 x 5.4 inches
Weight	2.3 pounds
GPH	57
Number of filters	3-filters
Warranty	Limited lifetime

5. Penn Plax Cascade Aquarium Filter

(Best for Pet Gift)

Are you shopping for a pet turtle gift? Then this one from Penn Plax will surely be the best one to provide warmth to both pet and owner. The device comes with a cascade canister filter that works well for marine and freshwater environments. It comes with three media baskets that work as 265 GPH and can be used in tanks that can hold up to 100 gallons. The rotating flow valves can reach even the tightest spaces in your aquarium, and you can make use of it in any combination of media.

The device is easy to assemble and use with the push of a button, and it is pretty much customizable to meet your needs, which is another reason why I like this one. It kind of works more like a gadget, which makes it even more right as the best choice for an aquatic pet gift. Maintenance isn’t much an issue, as the flow valve is easily detachable to make quick cleans and sweeps.

Key Features:

• Cascade canister filter
• Suitable for 100 gallon tanks
• Three filter media installed

Product Specifications:

Aquarium Capacity	100 gallons
Dimensions	11.5 x 13.5 x 9 inches
Weight	12.8 pounds
GPH	265
Number of filters	3-filters
Warranty	–

6. Tetra Whisper Silent Filter

(Best Quiet Option)

It can be quite a challenge to discover a water filter that works quietly without all the whirring and vibrations. This is where the Tetra Whisper stands out from many other cleaners in the market, and it stays true to its name and functions quietly. It provides a multi-stage filtration that ensures that the water is clean and bright. The unit is easy to set up, and you don’t need any priming before you get these in the water. The continuous flow helps to provide debris from building up and helps to optimize oxygenation around the system.

It is great for 45 to 70 gallons aquarium and can do as much as 340 gallons in an hour. You also get to be buying from a brand that goes back up to 50 years, so you can expect a great deal of quality from the Tetra Whisper turtle filter. In addition to being super easy to operate, there are bio scrubbers that ensure that all bacteria within the media will be eliminated.

Key Features:

• Suited for 70 gallon tanks
• Multi-stage filtration
• Includes bio scrubbers

Product Specifications:

Aquarium Capacity	70 gallons
Dimensions	6.3 x 12.9 x 9.5 inches
Weight	2.43 pounds
GPH	340
Number of filters	3-filters
Warranty	–

7. Tetra Decorative Retro Filter

(Best Overall)

The Tetra Decorative Retro filter is my best choice for a turtle tank. Aside from the fact that it comes with a waterfall and a combination of filters, the 3-stage filtration also means that your pet will enjoy a great deal of clean water. The realistic stone appearance is something you don’t get to see with many other turtle filters. There is a dual function lid that keeps your pet out of harm’s way when the screen is in use.

The filter is easy to set up and clean when not in use. The device is ideal for a low water environment making it suitable for newt, turtles, and other animals that prefer shallow water. It also aids in eliminating odor from the tank and keeping the water clear so your aquatic life-form can thrive. Overall, you get a device from one of the industry leaders of marine pet supply so you can be sure that you won’t be disappointed at the end of the day with your purchase.

Key Features:

• Three stage filter media
• Dual function lid
• Suitable for 55 gallon tanks

Product Specifications:

Aquarium Capacity	55 gallons
Dimensions	8.8 x 12.8 x 10.6 inches
Weight	2.0 pounds
GPH	265
Number of filters	3-filters
Warranty	2 year limited

8. Zilla Internal Filter

(Best Internal Filter Option)

Many internal filters could work for use in cleaning a turtle tank from the inside, and if that is what you want, this one from Zilla is my best choice for an internal filter. Although it is designed to work with small tanks, I do find them to be useful in filtering a 20 to 30 gallons aquarium. It is equipped with a patented power filtration that is great for clearing all debris from the bottom and surface of the turtle tank.

There is a protective grate at the mouth of the filter that keeps your pet from getting into tiny spaces. The device is easy to set up, and cleaning it after each use is not much of a problem. You also get a turtle filter that operates quietly, so if that is something you are after, then you may also want to consider the Zilla turtle filter. But you should know that it doesn’t work well for a large tank.

Key Features:

• Three filter media installed
• Suitable for 20 gallon tanks
• Internal turtle tank filter

Product Specifications:

Aquarium Capacity	20 gallons
Dimensions	5 x 3 x 8 inches
Weight	1.0 pounds
GPH	265
Number of filters	3-filters
Warranty	–

9. Zision Water Pump and Filter

(Best Water Pump Filter)

Need a water pump that doubles as a filter as well, then this one from Zision should be just perfect for you. It comes with features that ensure that the tank will be kept free from debris at all times. The filters on them are detachable and washable, so you can do some quick maintenance when it is not in use. It also features high safety levels, with electric leakage prevention and waterproof design, so the pump doesn’t get damaged by water.

It operates at a low noise rating, and the suction design allows you to move the device around in the tank. It does work for aquariums that hold up to 50 gallons of water, so you can liken it to one for a medium device. But whether or not you agree, it pays to have a tool that doubles as a pump and a filter for your turtle tank.

Key Features:

• Suitable for 50 gallon tanks
• Electric leakage prevention
• Waterproof design

Product Specifications:

Aquarium Capacity	50 gallons
Dimensions	3.9 x 1.3 x 2.7 inches
Weight	2.6 pounds
GPH	265
Number of filters	3-filters
Warranty	–

10. Marineland Penguin Power Filter

(Best Value for Money)

If you are bothered about ending up with a device that performs poorly, after all the investment, then you should check out the Marineland Penguin power filter. It is equipped with a patented bio-wheel technology that provides excellent wet and dry biological filtration. The multi-stage filtration system delivers chemical, mechanical, and biological filtration of your turtle tank.

It is available in different sizes, so you can find one that would best suit your aquarium. Easy start-up and maintenance give you an edge over the device, plus it does operate quietly, which is another reason why it makes it on my list of best turtle tank filter you can find out there.

Key Features:

• Patented technology
• Suitable for 50 gallon tanks
• Three media filters installed

Product Specifications:

Aquarium Capacity	50 gallons
Dimensions	9.5 x 6.2 x 8 inches
Weight	2.3 pounds
GPH	200
Number of filters	3-filters
Warranty	–

11. Ovation 1000 Submersible Power Jet Filter

(Best Underwater Filter)

The Ovation 1000 is built for underwater filtration for both large tanks and other aquatic environments. They do well in aquariums that hold up to 80 gallons, and with a flow rate of 265 GPH. It comes with a two-stage filtration that provides biological and mechanical filtration. With 20 Watts power on the device, you do get some powerful force that can remove debris from the bottom of your tank.

You also get a filter that works silently, which doesn’t pose any threat to your pet. There are no tiny spaces in the device where small fishes can get stuck in, unlike many other underwater aquarium filters. There is enough supply of air in the system, as the nozzles are designed to provide aeration when it comes on. You can also be assured that there will be no fouler smell around the tank as well when it is thoroughly clean.

Key Features:

• Suitable for 80 gallon tanks
• Two filter media installed
• 20 watts power

Product Specifications:

Aquarium Capacity	80 gallons
Dimensions	6 x 4.1 x 9.9 inches
Weight	2.2 pounds
GPH	265
Number of filters	2-filters
Warranty	–

12. Zoo Med Turtle Clean External Filter

(Best Canister Filter)

If you prefer a canister filter, then this external Zoo Med turtle filter may be best suited for you. It features a three-stage filtration, so you can expect thorough mechanical, biological, and chemical cleansing of your tank. You also get a versatile device, so if you are equally shopping for a newt, fish, or frog, then you could also trust that it will deliver.

It is safe for use in tanks that hold up to 15 gallons, so it may not be best suited for larger aquariums that hold 100s of gallons. You get a one-year warranty to cover your purchase. So you could keep that in mind too if you are considering opting for this one. It does operate quietly and requires minimal maintenance, unlike many other filters available in the market.

Key Features:

• Suitable for 15 gallon tanks
• One-year warranty
• Three filter media installed

Product Specifications:

Aquarium Capacity	15 gallons
Dimensions	11 x 5.5 x 4.5 inches
Weight	2.0 pounds
GPH	265
Number of filters	3-filters
Warranty	One year

13. Fluval G3 Advanced Filtration System

(Best Advanced Filtration System )

Advanced filtration systems like this one from Fluval are best suited for use in a freshwater and marine environment. The Fluval G3 can work best in aquariums that hold between 40 and 80 gallons of water. You also get a device that spots an aesthetics that makes it stand out from the crowd when it comes to design. The Aquastop feature helps to make maintenance of the machine easy, and the entire housing can be taken apart for proper cleaning.

These advanced filters are great for underwater cleaning and are easy to operate. They have intelligent monitoring systems that provide first-hand details on filter performance and temperature ratings. The drive system comes with pumps that operate rather silently, so you can expect less noise with the Fluval G3.

Key Features:

• Suitable for 80 gallon tanks
• Intelligent monitoring system
• Three filter media installed

Product Specifications:

Aquarium Capacity	80 gallons
Dimensions	10 x 9 x 10 inches
Weight	18.8 pounds
GPH	165
Number of filters	3-filters
Warranty	–

14. Polar Aurora External Aquarium Filter

(Best External Filter Option)

External filters are great if you are worried about your pet getting stuck in an internal unit. The Polar Aurora external aquarium filter is my best choice for an outside unit. They are great for tanks that can hold up to 75 gallons of water. With a flow rate of 264 gallons per hour, you can expect that the device will be able to provide maximum cleaning of your aquarium.

It comes with three media trays that give you maximum control of the filtration media. Although they are best suited to work in a fish tank, they could also be useful for cleaning out a turtle’s habitat. The 3-stage canister filters are easy to maintain, and the hoses make for easy flow throughout the aquarium.

Key Features:

• Three filter media installed
• Suitable for 75 gallon tanks
• External type filter

Product Specifications:

Aquarium Capacity	75 gallons
Dimensions	10 x 10 x 16 inches
Weight	15.6 pounds
GPH	265
Number of filters	3-filters
Warranty	–

15. LONDAFISH Turtle Water Filter

(Best Low Water Level Filter )

The LONDAFISH turtle water filter is my best pick if you are shopping for a unit that can filter in low water environments. It comes with a waterfall feature, which is something you don’t see in many other filters in the market. You get a smooth flow of water, which helps to aerate your aquarium and protect the life-forms inhabiting the place.

It features a mute design that ensures the device operates quietly when it is turned on. It could also be used in a variety of aquatic settings where the water is kept at a low level. There is a 90 days’ replacement window with every purchase from LONDAFISH, so you get to try the device and see if it fits well in your turtle tank.

Key Features:

• 90 days replacement window
• Suitable for 100 gallon tanks
• Waterfall feature

Product Specifications:

Aquarium Capacity	100 gallons
Dimensions	0.8 x 3.2 x 8.7 inches
Weight	8.6 pounds
GPH	265
Number of filters	3-filters
Warranty	90 Days

Buying Guide

As I mentioned earlier, it can be an uphill task finding a filter that will be suitable for your turtle tank. As you may already know, a screen that works for a fish tank may not do well in a turtle tank, so how then can you end up with the right one. I have made a quick break down of some of the essential features that you should look out for in a quality turtle tank filter, and how to find the right one for you.

Filter Type

You should know that there are different types of tank filters, and each one of them takes a different kind of approach to filtration. The common ones are the canister filters, the power filters, and the underwater filters.

• Canister Filter

They are the more common types of filters available in the market. They are versatile and can be used in a variety of settings and do well in both small and large tanks. They are built to sit underneath or next to your tank, which makes them a great option to maximize space. Most times, they are equipped with multiple filtration systems that make it possible for them to keep the system clean and free from odor.

• Power Filters

The power filters are more suited for use in tanks and settings that require an advanced system to provide high power filtration to keep the medium clean. They can be used in both marine and freshwater environments, plus they are designed to be very durable. The only thing is that they are not best suited for small tanks due to their high power filtration, but if you are shopping for a small tank, then it is worth considering.

• Underwater Filters

Underwater filters are great for cleaning the bottom of a large tank, and also perfect for low-water level settings. They could also be used in a small aquarium, and operate rather quietly compared to the other types of filters.

Filtration System

The filtration system is another thing you want to consider when shopping for a turtle tank filter. Many of the popular brands available in the market come with 3-stage filtration, but it is also possible to find others with a dual or mono filter system. Usually, it is best to go with a system that provides the trio of mechanical biological and chemical filtration so you can be sure that your system will be kept clean at all times.

• Mechanical Filtration

Mechanical filtration is responsible for eliminating particles such as turtle feces and left over feeds from the surface of your aquarium. But mechanical filtration alone is not enough to keep the medium thoroughly clean.

• Biological Filtration

Biological filtration takes care of the ammonia that gets deposited in the system from turtle urine. They come equipped with a substrate media that helps promote the growth of bacteria that can be beneficial to the system. This stage of filtration is essential as it helps to keep the system free from toxins and safe for your pet to inhabit.

• Chemical Filtration

Although not as essential as the other type of filtration, but the chemical filters help to improve the cleaning of the system. If you should choose a dual system, by the way, make sure it is one that does include both biological and mechanical filtration. If it comes with chemical filters, then the more, the better.

Ease Of Maintenance

You should know that tank filters require regular maintenance, so you should opt for one that is easy to care for. The filter media will need to be changed often, and the ones with a simple cabinet system that is easy to remove and replace. You don’t want to take the system apart each time you need to do some cleaning, and also don’t want to mess around the pump either.

Size And GPH

You will also have to settle for a filter that matches the size of your aquarium. Many of the available brands are designed to work with a certain amount of water, so you want to check that the device matches with the gallons your tank can hold. The number of gallons per hour that the device pumps out also determines the rate of cleaning that can be done in a short time.

Noise Ratings

Aquarium filters tend to operate with a certain degree of noise. This is due to the vibrations from the pump and other components inside the machine. If you want to avoid all the inconvenience that comes with a noisy device, then you want to keep your eyes out for the noise ratings.

Ease Of Operation

Is the device easy to operate? This is another thing you want to consider when in the market for a turtle tank filter. You don’t want to end up with a machine that you cannot use. So you want to check that it does come with simple easy to use buttons that give you maximum control over the device.

Durability

Last, of all, you want to confirm that the product is long-lasting. It is vital if you don’t want to end up looking for repairs or shopping for a new product. If you do go with a filter that needs to be in the water, you should check that it does do well in an aquatic environment.

FAQs

Do turtle tanks need a filter?

Without a filtration system, it is only a matter of time before your turtle tank becomes unhealthy for your pet friend. The filters help to keep the system clean, and also free from odor and coloration. Without filtration, excreta and urine from your turtle could make the system toxic to live in. So if you are serious about improving the health of your aquatic pet, then you want to consider a suitable filter.

Can fish tank filters work for turtles?

You should know that while many of the aquatic tank filters are designed to work for fishes, there are specific ones that are made to cater for a turtle tank. While under gravel filters may work for a fish tank, they are not suited for use in systems that house turtles. The best option for turtles is usually the canister or power filters.

Why should I use two or more filters?

It is best to always use more than one filter in your tank cleaning system. The reason for this is to guarantee that the good bacteria needed by the system to stay clean will always be available. During the process of cleaning the filter, when you take one out, there will still be one left in, to balance the ammonia levels within the system.

What kind of filter is best for a turtle tank?

A three-stage filtration system is always the best to go with. But if you must go with a dual system, it is still best to choose biological and mechanical filtration. You can get enough cleaning done without the need for chemical filters.

Should I choose a canister filter?

Many turtle pet owners opt for a canister filter because they are easy to mount and don’t take up much space, unlike the other type of screens. So if you are short on available room, then you could as well go with the majority.

My Top Pick

A turtle tank filter is what makes the difference between a clean and dirty turtle aquarium. Apart from cleaning the system, it also comes in handy for eliminating odor and toxins out of your pet’s living area. When shopping for the best options in the market, you want to do well to follow the buying guide provided above.

While many of the brands reviewed above are worth checking out, the Tetra Decorative Retro Filter is my best choice as it comes with 3-stage filtration, and features a water fountain design that sets it apart from the others available in the market.