10 Best Aquarium Sizes For Beginners [2025]
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Finding the best aquarium sizes for beginners can be a daunting task, especially with the myriad of options available on the market. Without proper guidance, selecting the right size to suit your needs can lead to confusion and frustration. To simplify this process, we meticulously shortlisted 10 top-rated products based on key factors such as ease of maintenance, tank dimensions, and suitability for novice aquarists. Our curated list will save you valuable time and hassle, ensuring you make an informed decision for a successful aquarium experience.
Top 10 Aquarium Sizes For Beginners In The Market
Aquarium Sizes For Beginners Review
- 5 gallon glass aquarium starter kit
- Comes with everything needed for your first fish tank
- Use our Nutrafin Aqua Plus Water Conditioner to make tap water safe for fish
- Marina's Slim S20 clip-on aquarium filter keeps your water clear and uses quick-change filter cartridges
- Long-lasting, natural daylight effect LED aquarium lighting module is incorporated into the fish tank's canopy
- 【All-in-One Aquarium Kit】: This 8.7"L × 6"W × 10"H beta fish aquariums (1.5 gallons) ships with everything needed—1*fish tank, 1*silent pump, 1*tricolor led light, 1*plastic water plants. You just need to prepare water and fish. Transform any space instantly into a vibrant, maintenance-minimal aquatic showcase
- 【Perfect for Beginners】: Ditch heavy, fragile, and expensive glass tanks. Made of premium PET plastic, this aquarium delivers exceptional lightweight durability (no deformation or breakage) while matching glass-like clarity at an affordable price. This small aquarium is designed specifically for cold-water species like betta fish, goldfish, and shrimp. This starter kit is perfect for beginners to learn fishkeeping in the early stage
- 【Whisper-Quiet Pump】: The betta fish tank included pump maintains clean, fresh water with minimal effort, drastically reducing water change frequency. Engineered for near-silent operation—its sound becomes virtually imperceptible at optimal water levels, allowing uninterrupted sleep even when placed bedside
- 【3-in-1 LED Light】: USB-powered (adapter not included) with three color modes—blue, white, and blue-white blend. Generates soft ambient lighting (neither too bright nor too dim) that visibly appeals to fish, actively enhancing their vibrancy and activity levels
- 【Thrive in Small Spaces】:This goldfish tank nests perfectly anywhere—bedside tables, office shelves, living room corners, dorm rooms, or kids’bedrooms—turning cramped spots into serene, life-filled oases with effortless style
- IMPORTANT: Please note that during times of extreme weather, live plants will can suffer due to extreme temps. During winter, do not order live plants when temperatures are expected to go below 30F at the lowest point during the day.
- LIVE AQUARIUM PLANT - 1 hornwort coontail live aquarium plant
- SIZE - 1 Hornwort bundle with multiple stems usually 5-10 inches. Size will vary slightly as these are live plants
- LIVE ARRIVAL GUARANTEE - We guarantee live arrival on all of our livestock provided you don't order when temperatures are expected to go below 30F at the lowest point during the day. If a plant ever arrives dead send us a clear photo of the plant in the unopened bag and and we will replace once verified.
- We do our very best to respond fast and ship happy, healthy plants. If you have any questions or concerns please message us we are always happy to help!
- 🐠 A Truly Complete Saltwater Tank Kit: Dive into the world of saltwater aquarium reef keeping with ease using HelloReefs comprehensive starter kit, including everything you need to set up and maintain a stunning coral reef aquarium. 15 gallon aquarium, filtration, pump, powerhead, sand, rock, fish food, salt, heater, and more!
- 📚 Expert Guidance: Access exclusive guides, tutorials, and personalized support from seasoned aquarium keeping professionals, helping you to create and maintain a thriving saltwater oasis. Join our community, and become part of the family..
- 🛠️ High-Quality Equipment: HelloReef uses only premium equipment and time-proven techniques to ensure you will be successful whether this is your first aquarium or you're a seasoned aquarist.
- 💧 Hidden Multi-Stage Filtration: Filtration, Heater, Biomedia and more can be hidden in the rear filtration chamber for a natural habitat.
- 🧠 STEM Authenticated Product: Inspiring the Next Generation HelloReef is proud to be STEM Authenticated and have earned the coveted “Best in STEM” award due to ranking in the Top 5% of all products evaluated by STEM org Educational Research Organization. HelloReef supports students and educators alike in the development of 21st Century Skills in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math.
- Space-saving: This small fish tank kit includes a glass aquarium measuring 5.9inch in length, 5.9inch in width, and 5.9inch in height. It is compact and perfect for placing on desks or office desks without occupying much space.
- Solid wood base and LED light: The kit comes with a solid wood base, and an LED light is installed on the base to illuminate the aquarium from the bottom, adding visual appeal.
- Small waterfall filter: The kit includes a small waterfall filter that, despite its compact size, provides excellent filtration capabilities. It can even adjust the water flow to maintain clean water quality.
- Suitable for small fish: This fish tank kit is ideal for keeping small fish like Betta fish. It provides a comfortable living environment for them.
- Exquisite gift: With its sleek design and practicality, this fish tank kit makes an excellent gift choice for family and friends.
- Fish Net Size: the package comes with 3 different sizes of aquarium nets, including 4 inch (Approx.3.34 x 4.13"; Handle length: 9.64 inches), 5 inch (Approx.3.74 x 5.11"; Handle length: 10.24 inches); 6 inch (Approx.6.1 x 4.72"; Handle length: 11.61 inches). Package includes 3 pieces of fishing nets in different sizes to meet your daily needs.
- Safe & High-quality Materials: Filhome aquarium fish nets made of soft, rush-proof and lightweight nylon net, strong but soft reducing the likelihood of injury. All metal parts are coated with plastic, and the durable, non-slip handle resists bending and provides a stronger grip.
- Strong Construction: The fine nylon mesh net lining is carefully designed for fish safety and will last for years, the non-slip handle won't bend or break and is perfect for clearing debris from the water such as unwanted food and excess decorations. It is a great tool for catching fish when routine maintenance of the tank is needed.
- Easy Storage: Our fishing tank nets are wrapped in plastic at the end of each handle for a comfortable grip. Simply clean the net cover after use and hang it in a cool and ventilated place.
- Multi-Purpose: Filhome aquarium nets are not only for fishing in aquariums, but also for aquarium cleaning and maintenance, such as removing debris, waste or unused fish food from aquariums, which is a must-have tool for aquariums and swimming pools.
- Java Fern Narrow Mini is versatile with placement and can be used for a variety of looks such as small bushes, or acting as leaves on a piece of aquarium driftwood.
- Smaller hybrid cross between the regular Java Fern and Java Fern Needle Leaf; the leaves are thinner than our regular Java Fern at about 1/2" wide but not as thin as the Needle Leaf variant.
- Easy Care - It has low light requirements and does not require additional Co2 making it a great choice for beginners to live aquatic plants.
- Sizes vary - Ships 3-5" in a 2" pot rooted in wool which should be removed prior to planting. Gently squeeze the pot, peel back the wool, and rinse.
- Java Fern species are epiphytic which means they can grow fine when attached directly onto a hardscape like driftwood and stones using thread or glue. Make sure to keep the rhizomes above your substrate or the plant can begin to rot.
- Compact/Transparent Design: If you're looking for an aeration pump that won't clutter your space or compromise aesthetics, but still delivers excellent quiet operation and ample airflow, our fish tank air pump is the perfect solution. Its compact body saves space and is easy to place. Featuring an innovative transparent design, every detail is showcased, building consumer trust.
- Whisper Ultra-Silent:Aquarium Air Pump combines floating motor, 5mm ABS shell and anti-vibration pads for <30dB operation. Air Pump Aquarium runs quieter than water flow, perfect for bedroom aquariums and light sleepers.
- Safe & Efficient:The aquarium air pump delivers powerful airflow with low power consumption, eliminating electric leakage risks. Featuring knob-controlled airflow adjustment and 16/29/57/80GPH models, adapts to 2-80 gallon aquariums, safely functioning for both desktop mini tanks and professional aquatic systems.
- Model Options:Choose single/double outlet models. Fish Tank Aerator kits include nano air stones, check valves and silicone tubing. Aquarium Air Pump comes with visual guide enabling 3-minute setup for beginners.
- Ideal Gift/Professional Support:Fish Tank Air Pump is the ideal gift for aquarium enthusiasts and beginners. AQUASMITH provides 24/7 customer support. Contact us via order page or support email for missing accessories or operational guidance
- You get 1 Potted Melon Sword. An easy live aquarium plant specie for any freshwater aquarium
- Create a natural habitat in your aquarium for your fish and invertebrates
- Make your fish tank look natural and beautiful. Perfect for mid-size and large aquarium
- Provide natural resting and hiding places for your smaller fish and invertebrates
- Please note this plant is grown and shipped in its emerged form. The plant will turn reddish once acclimated to the aquarium.
- You will receive 1 qty. of high quality USA grown densely packed golf ball size Java Moss
- Java moss does not require any special attention. It accepts all kinds of water, even weakly brackish, and all kinds of light qualities. It grows best at 70 to 75° Fahrenheit (21 to 24° Celsius), but can live in temperatures of up to 85 to 90 °F (29 to 32 °C).
- It is especially popular among aquarists raising fry (baby fish) and tadpoles, to protect them from cannibalistic adults. Java moss can also provide food for the newly formed fry, which can be challenging to feed. Some shrimp like to feed on the miniature leaf like structures known as phyllids
- Java moss can be easily propagated via division. It is suitable for both aquariums and vivariums
- Live Arrival and Satisfaction Guaranteed
Our Review Process
To ensure you get reliable product recommendations, we follow a detailed review methodology that includes:
- Market Research: Scanning best-selling and trending products in this category.
- User Feedback: Reviewing customer reviews, star ratings, and complaints.
- Hands-On Testing: Trying select products ourselves when feasible.
- Feature Comparison: Evaluating specs, durability, pricing, and safety.
- Expert Opinions: Consulting with niche experts or credible reviewers.
We independently select the top 10 options based on value, quality, and usability. To learn more, visit our detailed review process.
Key Considerations Before Buying Aquarium Sizes for Beginners
1. Available Space
Before committing to an aquarium, assess the space you have available in your home. Measure the area where you plan to place the aquarium to ensure it fits comfortably. Remember to consider height as well as width and depth, as some larger aquariums can be quite tall. Additionally, ensure the surface can support the weight of a filled aquarium, which can be substantial.
2. Type of Fish
The type of fish you want to keep will heavily influence the size of the aquarium. Smaller fish may thrive in a smaller tank, while larger species often require more space to swim and establish territory. Research the adult size and behavior of the fish you plan to keep to determine the appropriate aquarium size that will accommodate them comfortably.
3. Water Volume
Water volume is a critical factor for beginners. A larger aquarium generally offers a more stable environment due to the greater volume of water, which can better absorb changes in temperature and water quality. Smaller tanks can experience rapid fluctuations, making them more challenging for new aquarists. Aim for at least a 20-gallon tank if possible, as this balance of size and ease of maintenance is often recommended for beginners.
4. Filtration and Maintenance
Consider the filtration system needed for the aquarium size you choose. Larger tanks may require more robust filtration to maintain water quality, which can lead to higher initial costs. Also, keep in mind the maintenance requirements; larger tanks may need less frequent water changes compared to smaller ones. Make sure you are prepared for the maintenance involved in keeping your aquarium healthy.
5. Budget
Your budget will play a significant role in the size of your aquarium. Larger tanks not only cost more to purchase but also require more equipment, such as filters, heaters, and decorations. Don’t forget to factor in ongoing costs, including food, water treatments, and electricity, which can increase with larger setups. Set a realistic budget to ensure you can accommodate all necessary expenses.
6. Experience Level
As a beginner, it may be wise to start with a smaller to medium-sized aquarium. Larger tanks can be more forgiving, but they also require more knowledge and skill to manage effectively. Starting with a smaller tank allows you to gain experience and learn the fundamentals of fishkeeping before upgrading to a larger setup.
7. Tank Shape and Style
Different aquarium shapes (such as rectangular, tall, or bow front) can affect both the aesthetic and practical aspects of your fish tank. Consider what style will best fit your décor and how the shape may impact fish behavior and swimming space. Some shapes allow for better viewing angles, while others may provide more surface area for gas exchange.
8. Community vs. Species Tank
Deciding whether you want a community tank (with multiple species) or a species-specific tank will influence your size choice. A community tank typically requires more space to avoid overcrowding and territorial disputes among fish. On the other hand, a species tank may allow for a more compact setup, provided you ensure there’s enough room for the chosen species.
9. Future Expansion
Consider your plans for future expansion when selecting an aquarium size. If you foresee adding more fish or different species down the line, it might be beneficial to purchase a larger tank from the outset. Planning for growth can save you from needing to upgrade too soon, which can be costly and time-consuming.
FAQs
What is the best aquarium size for beginners?
For beginners, a 20-gallon aquarium is often recommended as it provides a stable environment for fish and is manageable in terms of maintenance. However, sizes between 10 to 30 gallons can also be suitable depending on the type of fish you want to keep.
Can I start with a smaller aquarium, like a 5-gallon tank?
While a 5-gallon tank can be suitable for certain small fish or shrimp, it requires more frequent maintenance and can be harder to keep stable in terms of water quality. Beginners are generally advised to start with at least a 10-gallon tank for easier management.
How many fish can I keep in my aquarium?
The general rule of thumb is one inch of fish per gallon of water. However, keep in mind that this rule varies depending on the species, as some fish produce more waste than others and require more space. It’s always best to research the specific needs of the fish you want to keep.
What are the advantages of larger aquariums?
Larger aquariums offer more stable water parameters, allowing for greater flexibility in stocking and less frequent water changes. They also provide more space for fish to swim and exhibit natural behaviors, reducing stress among the inhabitants.
How much space should I leave between fish species in an aquarium?
Space requirements can vary based on species. Generally, it’s best to consult species-specific guidelines. Some fish may require more territory, while others may thrive in tighter spaces. Always research individual species to avoid overcrowding and aggression.
What equipment do I need for different aquarium sizes?
Basic equipment includes a filter, heater (for tropical fish), substrate, and lighting. The size and type of each piece of equipment will depend on the aquarium size. Larger tanks may require more powerful filters and heaters to maintain proper water conditions.
Is it easier to maintain a smaller or larger aquarium?
Larger aquariums tend to be easier to maintain in terms of water stability. Smaller tanks can experience rapid changes in water quality and temperature, making them more challenging for beginners. However, smaller tanks require less space and can be more affordable to set up initially.
What are some common mistakes beginners make when choosing aquarium sizes?
Some common mistakes include selecting a tank that is too small for the chosen fish, not considering the adult size of the fish, and underestimating the time and effort needed for maintenance. It’s essential to plan ahead and research before making a purchase.
How do I transition from a small aquarium to a larger one?
When transitioning to a larger tank, it’s important to cycle the new aquarium before adding fish. You can use established filter media from the smaller tank to help seed beneficial bacteria. Gradually acclimate your fish to the new environment to minimize stress.
What types of fish are best for a beginner aquarium?
Beginner-friendly fish include species like guppies, tetras, danios, and bettas. These fish are generally hardy, easy to care for, and can adapt well to various water conditions. Always ensure compatibility between species before adding them to your tank.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, selecting the right aquarium size is crucial for beginners looking to embark on their aquatic journey. The ten products we’ve highlighted have been carefully chosen based on a combination of factors including ease of maintenance, tank stability, and adaptability to various fish species. By considering the specific needs of beginner aquarists, we’ve ensured that these options provide a solid foundation for any new hobbyist to flourish in the world of fishkeeping.
Following our list not only simplifies your decision-making process but also sets you up for success in creating a healthy and thriving aquatic environment. Each of these recommended aquariums has been vetted for quality and user-friendliness, allowing you to focus on enjoying the beauty and serenity that your new hobby brings. With the right size aquarium, you’ll be better equipped to manage water parameters and provide a suitable habitat for your fish, ultimately leading to a more rewarding and fulfilling experience in the fascinating realm of aquariums.
