10 Best Aquarium Sizes For Beginners [2025]
This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
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
- 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.
- 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
- 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.
- Amazon Sword Bleheri is very common in the aquarium hobby, as they offer excellent and attractive coverage to the background of an aquascape.
- Amazon sword plants can get very large, making them a great fit for a larger tank.
- With a nutrient rich substrate these plants will tolerate most lighting conditions, but moderate to high lighting is ideal. CO2 injection is not necessary but will help the plant grow faster if desired.
- Amazon sword plants will grow submersed or emersed. Emersed plants produce lovely white flowers.
- SubstrateSource inspects each plant prior to shipping and ships all plants in healthy, stable condition with proper packing materials to ensure its safe arrival during shipping. Each plant is backed with a 100% dead-on-arrival replacement guarantee. To qualify, customers must provide a photo of the DOA plant within 24 hours of delivery.
- 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
- Low Maintenance: Both plants thrive in low to medium light and require no special CO₂ setup, making them perfect for easy care.
- Versatile Placement: Attach to driftwood, rocks, or ornaments, or let them grow naturally in your aquarium.
- Aquarium-Friendly: Non-toxic and safe for fish, shrimp, and other aquatic pets, these plants help create a natural habitat while improving water quality.
- Perfect for Aquascaping: Their contrasting leaf shapes and vibrant green hues add depth and texture to your tank, enhancing its visual appeal.
- Durable & Resilient: Adaptable to a wide range of water conditions, these plants are long-lasting and ideal for any tank setup.
- 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.
- You get 1 Potted Red Flame 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
- Provide natural resting and hiding places for your smaller fish and invertebrates. Perfect for mid-size and large aquarium
- 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!
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.
