Thinking of buying the best nano aquarium? Whether you are building your first tank or expanding your fishkeeping hobby with a new system, a nano tank, no doubt, makes a relaxing and rewarding project at home.
While they are not as big and roomy as your typical tank, it can offer a ton of cool perks. For instance, it is cheaper, easier to maintain, and takes up less space.
And guess what? It is perfect for both newbies and expert aquarium hobbyists!
For experts, a nano aquarium can provide a creative and challenging space to create an incredibly unique setup. And for newbies, it can be used to stock a community of smaller fish.
So, how can you score the best nano aquarium on the market today?
There are tons of options available at the moment, meaning it may be a little confusing and time-confusing to find the best nano aquarium for your home or office.
See also:
Well, fear not! I am going to reveal my picks for the best nano aquarium kits to make the selection process a breeze on your end.
Table of Contents
Why Buy A Nano Aquarium?
Not sure if a nano aquarium is the right tank for your office or home? Here are some reasons why you should buy a nano aquarium.
Cost-Effective
Not only are they cheaper, but nano aquariums also require fewer substrate materials and lights. If it is a saltwater aquarium, you will also use up less power and synthetic sea salt.
It Takes Up Less Space
A nano cube tank is a better and more suitable option for a small apartment or dorm than a sprawling 50-gallon aquarium. And, if you do not have some allocated space for it, you can just put your nano aquarium on your own desk.
Nano Aquariums Are Compact
Large aquariums need a great deal of room and a fixed space for installation. A nano aquarium, on the other hand, is so compact that it can be moved with ease.
If you are bored of keeping it in one specific area, you may conveniently move it to another space or room of your choice.
Best Nano Aquarium Comparison Chart 2023
Finding the best nano aquarium does not have to be supremely hard and confusing. That is because there are guides and comparison charts that can help you spot the best nano aquarium kits.
And, here is a detailed comparison chart that will help you bag the best nano aquarium for your indoor space.
Which Are The Best Nano Aquariums To Buy?
Whether you are looking for a budget-friendly option or a stylish tank, you will undoubtedly find the nano aquarium that best suits your preference by browsing these top picks!
- Best Overall – Hagen Fluval Flex 9-Gallon Nano Aquarium
“This all-in-one, compact, and stylish nano aquarium has a wondrous contemporary design and is equipped with all the essential tank equipment.” - Best Budget – Koller 5-Gallon Nano Aquarium Kit
“Even with its incredibly affordable price, this fish tank kit is loaded with handy features and accessories, including 7 dazzling LED lights and a powerful internal filter.” - Best for Reef – Coralife Led 16-Gallon Nano Aquarium
“With its sophisticated lighting system, layout, and perfect size, this aquarium is hands down, the best reef and saltwater nano aquarium in the market today.” - Best for Beginners – Marineland Contour 5-Gallon Nano Aquarium
“From a 3-stage filter to an impressive LED lighting system, this nano aquarium has everything beginners need to jump-start their aquarium hobby.” - Best with Light and Filter – Tetra Crescent 5-Gallon Nano Aquarium
“Not only is this aquarium easy on the eyes, but it also comes with a dynamic filtration system and remarkable LED lights.” - Best in Design – Fluval Spec V 5-Gallon Nano Aquarium
“With its sleek and sophisticated modern design, this 5-gallon nano fish tank will definitely look fabulous in any indoor setting.” - Best with Lid – Fluval Sea 13.5-Gallon Nano Aquarium
“Feed your fish easily and conveniently with this aquarium’s easy-to-use lid, as well as its impressive features.” - Best with Filter – Fluval Edge 12-Gallon Nano Aquarium
“With its hidden and dynamic filtration system, this aquarium will always look stunning and spotlessly clean.” - Best with Divider – Aqueon Minibow 2.5-Gallon Aquarium
“Designed into perfection, this extraordinary aquarium has a divider built to separate two bettas.” - Best with Led Lights – Aqueon Neoglow 5-Gallon Nano Aquarium
“This fantastic aquarium is equipped with blue fluorescent LED lights that create an ultra-clear and vivid view of the tank and its inhabitants.”
Reviews Of The Best Nano Aquariums in 2023
The best way to find the best nano aquarium kit is to read a bunch of different unbiased reviews from real users.
And guess what? I am going to make the whole process convenient and easy for you by putting all my best nano aquarium kit reviews in one place.
1. Best Overall: Hagen Fluval Flex 9-Gallon Nano Aquarium
Designed primarily for freshwater livestock, the Fluval Flex is an excellent choice for both experienced aquarists and beginners.
Compact and stylish, this nano aquarium has an eye-catching modern design that fits in a plethora of design elements. Plus, it has an ultra-clear curved glass that gives you unobstructed views of your finned pets.
Remarkable aesthetics aside, this aquarium also has all the accessories you need to keep some healthy and happy fish. For one, it has a built-in filter that effectively captures fish waste, leftovers, debris, algae, and larger debris.
On top of it all, the kit includes an LED lighting system and an internal pump.
Key Features:
- Endless selection of LED color hues
- 3-stage filtration system
- Outstanding contemporary design
Product Specifications:
| Manufacturer | Hagen |
| Weight | 11.1 pounds |
| Dimensions | NA |
| Filter | 3-stage filtration system |
| Lighting | LED lights |
| Heater | NA |
Pros
- Unobstructed view
- An all-in-one system that is easy to set up
- Effective pump and filter
- 7500 K LED lights help sustain aquatic plant life
Cons
- Does not have a heater
2. Best Budget: Koller 5-Gallon Nano Aquarium Kit
You will definitely love this wallet-friendly nano aquarium. With its sleek construction and colorful LED lights, this dazzling, modern aquarium can enhance the aesthetics of any indoor space.
Even better, it has a remarkable internal filter that can purify aquarium water at a rate of 45 GPH (gallons per hour).
And, while I am not a fan of plastic aquariums, this acrylic tank still amazes me. After all, this tank boasts a crystal clear plastic frame, meaning you get the plastic’s durability without compromising on its clarity.
Key Features:
- Crystal clear quality
- Energy-efficient LED lights
- Potent internal filtration system
Product Specifications:
| Manufacturer | Koller Products |
| Weight | 4.8 pounds |
| Dimensions | 14.2 x 11.5 x 10 inches |
| Filter | Internal filter |
| Lighting | LED lights |
| Heater | NA |
Pros
- Views of the aquarium are dazzling, thanks to its 7 LED lights
- Impact-resistant
- Inexpensive
- Aquarium water remains crystal clear
Cons
- Filter is a little noisy
- LED strip is not waterproof
3. Best for Reef: Coralife Led 16-Gallon Nano Aquarium
Coralife Biocube is an easy-to-assemble and low-maintenance nano reef aquarium, making it an ideal choice for newbies.
It has an easy-to-customize, built-in filter that comes with a submersible, noise-free pump, dual intakes, and an adjustable nozzle.
Furthermore, it has a color-enhancing lighting system that provides a stunning aquarium look with its shimmering blue and luminous white LED lights.
And, did I mention that it has a 24-hour timer with 3 independent channels?
Key Features:
- Color-enhancing LED lights with an integrated 24-hour timer
- Lights mimic natural day cycle
- Customizable and compact built-in filter
- Submersible and quiet pump
Product Specifications:
| Manufacturer | Coralife |
| Weight | 30.6 pounds |
| Dimensions | 15 x 16.8 x 17.5 inches |
| Filter | Customizable built-in filter |
| Lighting | LED lights |
| Heater | NA |
Pros
- Dynamic LED lights
- Silent operation
- Suitable for freshwater, reef and marine environments
- Easy to maintain and set up
Cons
- Slightly expensive
- Replacing the aquarium hood with lights can be a bit costly
4. Best for Beginners: Marineland Contour 5-Gallon Nano Aquarium
No list of the best nano aquarium kits is complete without the inclusion of this Marineland aquarium. Not only is it affordable, but it is also easy to maintain and set up.
Of course, this aquarium has a host of outstanding features.
It has a couple of LED light modes, designed to mimic moonlight and daylight. Plus, it looks sleek and is small enough to practically fit on most small surfaces.
Ideal for newbies, the aquarium has a cartridge and a 3-stage filtration system.
Key Features:
- Moonlight and daylight LED settings
- Compact and saves space
- Sleek contemporary design
Product Specifications:
| Manufacturer | Marineland |
| Weight | 12 pounds |
| Dimensions | 11.8 x 11.8 x 16.8 inches |
| Filter | 3-stage filtration system |
| Lighting | LED lights |
| Heater | NA |
Pros
- The design lets you grow tall aquatic plants
- Quiet filter
- Affordable
- Easy to maintain and set up
Cons
- The filter area is somewhat small and can be tricky to clean
5. Best with Light and Filter: Tetra Crescent 5-Gallon Nano Aquarium
The Tetra Crescent 5-gallon nano aquarium has energy-efficient, built-in LED lights that are engineered to illuminate each inch of the tank once turned on.
Moreover, the lights are hidden from your view, meaning you will only see the light that the LEDs are emitting.
As a matter of fact, all the wires and cords are hidden, and all you will see is the beauty of your aquarium.
The fish tank has a built-in silent filter as well. The filter uses activated carbon to effectively get rid of discolorations and odors in the aquarium water.
Key Features:
- Silent and effective filter
- Hidden LED lights
- Unique design
Product Specifications:
| Manufacturer | Tetra |
| Weight | 5.6 pounds |
| Dimensions | 16.6 x 11.2 x 13.2 inches |
| Filter | Tetra whisper filter |
| Lighting | LED lights |
| Heater | NA |
Pros
- Compact and lightweight
- Quiet integrated filter
- Marvelous appearance, thanks to its LEDs and curved front
- Affordable
Cons
- Cover easy comes off
- LED lights do not seem very long-lasting
6. Best in Design: Fluval Spec V 5-Gallon Nano Aquarium
Fluval Spec V aquarium’s filtration system is second to none. It has a quiet 3-stage filter that is superior to a ton of other filtration systems found in other aquariums.
Furthermore, it has a foam block that effectively catches debris and dirt.
Also, the filter and cords are practically hidden, so that these things will not mess with the aquarium’s look.
And speaking of appearance, this aquarium will capture your attention with its sleek design. To me, it is a contender to the title of the best nano aquarium.
Key Features:
- 37 powerful LED lights
- Silent and powerful filter
- Extremely sleek look
Product Specifications:
| Manufacturer | Fluval |
| Weight | 11.02 pounds |
| Dimensions | 15.5 x 11.5 x 11.02 inches |
| Filter | 3-stage filtration system |
| Lighting | LED lights |
| Heater | NA |
Pros
- One of the best aquariums today
- Super quiet filter
- Has a large footprint and powerful LED lights that help plants grow
- Controllable filter
Cons
- None
7. Best with Lid: Fluval Sea 13.5-Gallon Nano Aquarium
Fluval SEA will astonish you in a lot of ways. With its sophisticated honeycomb design, this saltwater nano aquarium will look absolutely striking in any room.
Not to mention, the filtration system is concealed perfectly, preventing visual obstructions. And, unlike other aquariums, replacing water is pretty easy with this nano fish tank.
Another upside to this kit is that it comes with 14000 K LED lights, which replicate the nighttime and sunlight cycles.
All in all, it is a decent choice if you are looking for a seawater nano aquarium.
Key Features:
- Terrific 3-stage filtration system
- Fashionable honeycomb design that hides the filter
- Sleek waterproof casing
Product Specifications:
| Manufacturer | Fluval |
| Weight | 28 pounds |
| Dimensions | 23.4 x 13.5 x 15.6 inches |
| Filter | 3-stage filtration system |
| Lighting | LED lights |
| Heater | NA |
Pros
- High output LED lights
- Superb filtration system
- Convenient touch-activated night and daylight settings
- Attractive and stylish contemporary look
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- No LED timer
- No protein skimmer
8. Best with Filter: Fluval Edge 12-Gallon Nano Aquarium
The Fluval Edge 12-gallon nano aquarium is a contemporary look and unique tank, with an uncluttered and simple design.
Eye-catching housing and design aside, the aquarium hides all the wiring and filter, making the fish viewing experience even more pleasant.
Like most of the best nano aquarium kits, this small fish tank will fit in any space, whether it is your room or an office.
It has an efficient and potent lighting system. And, it has a sealed glass top that lets you watch your fish from the top and the sides.
Key Features:
- Bright 7600 K LED lights
- Elegant design
- Complete kit
Product Specifications:
| Manufacturer | Fluval |
| Weight | 41.9 pounds |
| Dimensions | 22.2 x 17 x 14.3 inches |
| Filter | 3-stage filtration system |
| Lighting | LED lights |
| Heater | NA |
Pros
- Comes with a built-in filter
- Artistic design
- Exceptional lighting system
- Priced reasonably
- Easy to set up
Cons
- Filter is loud initially until the tank’s air bubbles clear
- Can be a little complicated to clean
9. Best with Divider: Aqueon Minibow 2.5-Gallon Aquarium
The Aqueon Minibow is a compact nano aquarium with an elevated base and a contemporary design. Although it is designed mainly for bettas, you can also put other species of fish in this aquarium, which comes with a divider to separate finned pets.
The nano fish tank comes with LED lights located beneath its hood. These lights are quite energy-efficient and will give you a beautiful view of the aquatic environment you have made for your fish.
On the low side, the light intensity is not much. So, in my opinion, it is not ideal for growing aquatic plants.
Key Features:
- Compact and stylish with an elevated base
- Comes with a divider in case you need to separate fish
- Sleek energy-efficient LED lights
Product Specifications:
| Manufacturer | Aqueon |
| Weight | 3.75 pounds |
| Dimensions | 11.9 x 9.8 x 3.75 inches |
| Filter | Aqueon QuietFlow filter |
| Lighting | LED lights |
| Heater | NA |
Pros
- Easy to set up
- Ideal for beginners
- Compact and has a small footprint
- Perfect desktop aquarium
Cons
- Filtration is not as superb as other aquarium systems
- Current generated by the filter can be strong for some fish
10. Best with Led Lights: Aqueon Neoglow 5-Gallon Nano Aquarium
Want your nano aquarium to be your room’s focal point? Then, consider buying this one-of-a-kind nano aquarium!
The aquarium’s lid is equipped with blue fluorescent LED lights that create a super clear and vivid view of the tank and your fish. Plus, these lights keep the tank’s pink seams highlighted to enhance aesthetics.
In my opinion, it is hands down, the most impressive nano tank set, when it comes to visual appeal and lighting.
And, as with other kits, this one contains other accessories and handy features.
Key Features:
- Remarkable LED lighting system
- Quiet filter
- Comes with multi-colored gravel and artificial plants
Product Specifications:
| Manufacturer | Aqueon |
| Weight | 18.7 pounds |
| Dimensions | 9.8 x 9.8 x 14.5 inches |
| Filter | Aqueon QuietFlow filter |
| Lighting | LED lights |
| Heater | NA |
Pros
- Available in a variety of sizes
- Visual appeal is second to none
- Silent filter operation
- Can fit practically anywhere
Cons
- None
11. Red Sea 20-Gallon Nano Aquarium
Even though it is slightly bigger than other nano aquariums, this Red Sea makes a terrific choice, especially for beginners.
Keep in mind that added volume helps improve the aquarium water stability. Not to mention, this fish tank kit comes with a variety of handy accessories and equipment, including a rear pump, LED lights, and a protein skimmer.
And, unlike other nano aquarium kits, this one has a sophisticated WiFi remote control.
It essentially has everything you need to start a nano saltwater fish tank.
Key Features:
- Bright LED lights with integrated WiFi remote controls
- Rimless design
- Complete kit
Product Specifications:
| Manufacturer | Red Sea |
| Weight | 60.9 pounds |
| Dimensions | 21.4 x 21 x 22 inches |
| Filter | Filtration system |
| Lighting | LED lights |
| Heater | NA |
Pros
- Plenty of supply available
- Easier to maintain water chemistry and quality
- Made of premium quality materials
- Has everything you need
Cons
- Quite expensive compared to other models
12. Jbj Dx 6-Gallon Nano Aquarium
Truthfully, the JBJ DX nano aquarium is not a household name in the world of aquarists and fish pet owners. Still, it has been making some waves, as of late, thanks to its compact and minimalist design.
Made of crystal clear acrylic, this aquarium will give you an awe-inspiring view of your underwater decorations and fish.
Moreover, this tank comes with an LED lighting system and a 3-stage filter. Both pieces of equipment have cooling fans to prevent overheating.
If, however, you are keeping some tropical fish, you will have to buy an external heater to maintain the temperature of your water.
Key Features:
- Classic nano cube design
- Panoramic aquarium view
- 3-stage filtration system
Product Specifications:
| Manufacturer | JBJ |
| Weight | 12 pounds |
| Dimensions | 16 x 16 x 11.5 inches |
| Filter | 3-stage filtration system |
| Lighting | LED lights |
| Heater | NA |
Pros
- Attractive price tag
- Filter and lights work quite well
- Straightforward and functional design
Cons
- Acrylic is known to easily scratch
13. Vepotek 4-Gallon Nano Aquarium
When it comes to appearance, the Vepotek nano aquarium is not to be outdone by the other tanks mentioned in this list.
This 4-gallon nano aquarium amazes beholders with its uncompromising, aesthetically pleasing, and timeless design.
Even better, it boasts 39 LED lights in 4 different shades, allowing you to make some adjustments.
And, it is one of the new nano tanks with a built-in timer to control its lighting system.
As an added bonus, it is suitable for both freshwater and saltwater applications.
Key Features:
- Energy-efficient filter pump
- High power LED lights
- 1-year warranty
- Made with tempered and durable glass
Product Specifications:
| Manufacturer | Vepotek |
| Weight | 12.4 pounds |
| Dimensions | 10 x 10.5 x 10 inches |
| Filter | Filtration system |
| Lighting | LED lights |
| Heater | NA |
Pros
- Minimalist and aesthetically pleasing design
- Incredible LED lighting system
- The filter is perfect for a small quantity of fish
Cons
- It does not have its own lid
- Filter is not long-lasting
14. Tetra Glofish 3-Gallon Nano Aquarium
This 3-gallon aquarium is, by far, one of the smallest in this group, and will virtually fit anywhere. Both the cover and tank are made of superior quality plastic, which is crack and shatter-resistant.
It comes with an LED lighting system hanging over the aquarium, a filter as well as pedestal base where it sits one.
One of the benefits of owning this nano fish tank is that you can feed your fish conveniently since it has a tiny hole at the tank’s top.
Key Features:
- Convenient lid
- Outstanding LED lights
- Comes with a Tetra filter to keep your aquarium immaculately clean
Product Specifications:
| Manufacturer | Tetra |
| Weight | 4.8 pounds |
| Dimensions | 10.5 x 10 x 10 inches |
| Filter | Tetra 3i filter |
| Lighting | LED lights |
| Heater | NA |
Pros
- Excellent lighting for the size
- Ideal starter nano aquarium kit
- Filter flow is adjustable
- Simple and easy to set up
Cons
- No instructions for filter set up
- Filter is noisy, before the air bubbles of the tank clear
15. Marina Led 5-Gallon Nano Aquarium
The Marina nano aquarium is, no doubt, a newbie’s dream. It is available in a couple of different sizes and has everything you need for maintenance and installation.
It has a dependable LED lighting system, an S20 filter, and a guide that will help you maintain your brand-new nano aquarium.
Plus, you will get some other goodies, such as water conditioners and even free fish food.
It is a terrific tank kit for newbies that lets you set up and run a nano aquarium as quickly as possible.
Key Features:
- Has everything you need for your first nano aquarium
- Top-notch filtration system
- Exceptional LED effects
Product Specifications:
| Manufacturer | Marina |
| Weight | 10.03 pounds |
| Dimensions | 21.8 x 14 x 18.8 inches |
| Filter | Marina S20 filter |
| Lighting | LED lights |
| Heater | NA |
Pros
- Filter is pretty effective
- Guide makes thing easier
- Has all the essentials need to start a nano aquarium hobby
Cons
- Tank does not have a substrate or any decorations
What To Look For In A Nano Aquarium?
Need a little help in selecting a nano aquarium? Then, heed these tips so that you can find the best nano aquarium for your home or office!
Opt For A Superior Filter
Filters are highly essential for nano tanks. With their small capacity and size, pollutants tend to build up so much quicker in nano tanks.
A superior filter will keep your water spotlessly clean as well as provide some water in your aquarium.
Consider A Built-In System
Most of the best nano aquariums, these days, are sold as sets or kits. They usually include all or some of the crucial equipment you need to get your fish tank started.
And, some kits are just better than the rest.
The best nano aquarium kits feature a filtration system, a stand, and a full-spectrum LED lighting system. You may add anything else your tank needs, such as a heater, separately.
Lighting and filtration are the most common equipment and accessories included with nano aquarium kits.
Acrylic Or Glass?
You can find transparent acrylic or glass nano aquariums. To get the best bang for your back, I suggest that you consider the pros and cons of every nano aquarium type.
Pros of glass aquariums:
- Has a lot of accessories
- Maintain clarity over time
- More available than tanks made of acrylic
- Less visible distortions
- Harder to scratch compared to acrylic
Cons of glass aquariums:
- Not quite as durable as their acrylic counterparts
- Limited shapes and design
- Heavier
- Hard to find a solution when scratched
Pros of acrylic tanks:
- Easier to drill into compared to glass
- Easy to refinish and re-polish
- Harder to break compared to glass
- Available in an array of designs and shapes
- Portable and lightweight
Cons of acrylic tanks:
- Base tends to be a little weak
- Gets discolored over time
- Easier to scratch than tanks made of glass
Style
Nano aquariums come in a variety of styles and shapes. They are partially-round, round, rectangular, box-shaped, and many more.
It mostly depends on your personal preference. Just first focus on the tank’s practicality and narrow down your options for style later.
Frequently Asked Questions
Want more information about nano aquariums? Do you have something to ask about nano aquariums? Check out these additional nuggets of information, to score the best nano aquarium.
What is considered a nano tank?
How small is exactly a nano tank? The truth is, there is no specific answer or real consensus on the size of a nano tank.
If it is smaller than the typical fish tank, then a manufacturer can label it as a nano without the risk of being accused of false advertising.
But, in general, any fish tank with a capacity of fewer than 20 gallons is considered a nano aquarium.
Additionally, reef aquariums with a capacity of 30 gallons or less are called nano reef tanks.
And, small saltwater aquariums with a maximum capacity of 15 gallons are deemed as nano aquariums.
Nano tanks are designed mainly for small scale inhabitants and ideal for all levels in the fishkeeping hobby.
From stunning nano reef tanks and freshwater setups to shrimp-only aquariums, there are a lot of creative and cool ways to stock nano aquariums.
Trust me, these fish tanks can provide a fascinating and thriving environment for a variety of small fish.
What is the best nano tank?
If it is your first time to buy a nano aquarium, and not familiar with it, you might want to buy from a trusted company, like Marineland, Fluval, Coralife, Penn Plax and Hygger.
What fish are good for nano tanks?
When looking for the best nano aquarium fish, it is crucial to consider how big they will ultimately grow, and not just the size as you but them.
Additionally, make sure that your nano aquarium fish are not extremely active swimmers that require a ton of space to swim around.
Here are some of the best nano aquarium fish:
- Betta fish
- Pea puffer
- Sparkling gourami
- Clove polyps
- Toadstool corals
- Scarlet badis
What do you keep in a nano tank?
The nano aquarium equipment you need depends on the kind of fish that you want to keep. For the most part, saltwater and freshwater tanks need lights, a filter, and a heater.
Why buy a nano tank kit?
A newbie’s best bet is to get a top-rated nano fish tank kit with integrated lighting and filtration built-in. That is because each component is an excellent fit, and you will just have to decide on a quality and appropriate heater.
Is a nano tank right for me?
Nano tanks have lesser volumes of water, which may result in a less stable salinity level as well as nutrients in the aquarium water. Additionally, smaller quantities change chemistry and quality a whole lot faster than the larger ones.
And, due to its limited space, you will clearly face a few restrictions when it comes to the number of finned creatures you can put in your tank.
My Top Pick
There is one that stands out from the rest of this roundup: the incredible and stunning Hagen Fluval Flex 9-Gallon Nano Aquarium.
With an elegant and contemporary design, this nano aquarium will absolutely look stunning in any indoor setting.
It is compact and constructed with a high-clarity and superior quality curved glass to give you a clear view of your fish.
Of course, it has a bunch of tools to make nano aquarium maintenance a breeze, such as its 3-stage filtration system.
So, are you ready to venture into the world of nano tanks? Just pick any of these top-rated nano aquarium kits, and kick-start your aquarium hobby on the right foot!
