6 Best Aquariums & Fish Bowls for Every Home

Creating a serene and vibrant aquatic environment at home can be a delightful experience. Whether you’re looking to add a small fish bowl to your desk or a larger aquarium for your living room, choosing the right setup is essential. In this post, we’ll explore six of the best aquariums and fish bowls that cater to various needs and aesthetics, helping you find the perfect fit for your space. Let’s dive in!

1
Marineland 5 Gallon LED Aquarium Kit
✯ Stylish, functional ✯
Marineland 5 Gallon LED Aquarium Kit
8.7
Amazon.com
2
Aquatic Wonder 1 Gallon Fish Bowl
Stylish yet limited
Aquatic Wonder 1 Gallon Fish Bowl
8.4
Amazon.com
3
Koller AquaView 2-Gallon Aquarium with Filter
Stylish and practical
Koller AquaView 2-Gallon Aquarium with Filter
8.2
Amazon.com
4
3 Gallon Plastic Fish Bowl
Stylish but fragile
3 Gallon Plastic Fish Bowl
7.8
Amazon.com
5
2.2 Gallon Self-Cleaning Aquarium with Lighting
Highly recommended
2.2 Gallon Self-Cleaning Aquarium with Lighting
7.8
Amazon.com
6
Aqueon 5 Gallon MiniBow Aquarium Kit
Aqueon 5 Gallon MiniBow Aquarium Kit
8
Amazon.com
1

Marineland 5 Gallon LED Aquarium Kit

✯ Stylish, functional ✯
Amazon.com
8.7
Stylish, functional
The Marineland Portrait Glass LED Aquarium Kit offers a sleek, elegant design with hidden filtration for unobstructed views, making it a great addition to any space. While it boasts easy assembly and quiet operation, be prepared for regular filter cartridge changes and a slightly flimsy rear cover.
Benefits
  • Elegant and space-saving vertical design
  • Hidden filtration system for a clean aesthetic
  • Adjustable filter flow suitable for delicate fish
  • Quiet operation, perfect for home environments
  • Durable glass construction with a secure lid
  • Great value for money compared to similar tanks
  • Easy to set up and maintain
Drawbacks
  • Filter cartridge requires frequent monthly changes, which may not be ideal for all users
  • The plastic cover for the rear compartment is flimsy and doesn’t fit securely

The Marineland Portrait Glass LED Aquarium Kit is a stunning 5-gallon curved glass tank designed to enhance your aquatic experience. With its sleek rounded corners and hidden 3-stage filtration system, you can enjoy unobstructed views of your fish and aquatic life. The energy-efficient LED lighting features both bright white and calming blue settings, creating a beautiful shimmering effect during the day and a soothing moonlit glow at night.

This user-friendly aquarium kit is easy to assemble and maintain, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced hobbyists. The hinged LED light and sliding glass canopy provide convenient access for feeding and tank care, while the adjustable flow filter pump ensures optimal water quality. Designed specifically for smaller fish like bettas and shrimp, you’ll find that this tank is not only stylish but also a delightful addition to any room.

Everything You Need to Start
  • Sleek design with rounded corners and clear glass canopy for multi-angle viewing
  • Daylight and moonlight LED lighting for enhanced aesthetic appeal
  • Easy access with hinged LED lighting and sliding glass canopy
  • Hidden, advanced 3-stage filtration system for unobstructed viewing
  • Compact 5-gallon size suitable for various spaces
  • Easy-to-assemble kit designed for low maintenance
2

Aquatic Wonder 1 Gallon Fish Bowl

Stylish yet limited
Amazon.com
8.4
Stylish yet limited
The Aquatic Wonder 1 Gallon Fish Bowl is a stylish and versatile addition to your home, perfect for Betta fish, décor, or serving party drinks. Its durable, break-resistant design and impressive clarity make it a great choice, though keep in mind that it lacks filtration and may not provide ample space for aquatic life.
Pluses
  • Break-resistant design
  • Lightweight and easy to move
  • Impressive clarity and aesthetic appeal
  • Versatile for home décor and party drinks
  • Sturdy construction that resists scuffing
Cons
  • Lack of filtration and heating options may not support the health of fish
  • Limited space for aquatic life, potentially leading to overcrowding issues

The Aquatic Wonder 1 Gallon Fish Bowl is designed for creativity and versatility, making it a delightful addition to any space. Whether you want to showcase your Betta fish, create stunning flower arrangements, or serve up party drinks, this round crystal clear bowl does it all! Made from durable, BPA-free plastic, it offers the beauty of glass without the risk of breakage or leaks.

With its lightweight, one-piece construction, this fish bowl is perfect for both decoration and aquatic life. Its globe shape, measuring 8 inches in diameter, provides ample space while ensuring easy maintenance. Just remember, while it’s a lovely home for your fish, proper care, including regular water changes, is essential for their well-being. Enjoy the endless possibilities of this beautiful bowl!

Perfect Habitat for Your Fish
  • Made from durable, BPA-free, food-safe PET plastic
  • Crystal clear design that mimics glass
  • One-piece construction for safety and leak-proof performance
  • Versatile usage for Betta fish, home décor, or party drinks
  • Lightweight and easy to handle
  • Ideal size for various creative arrangements (8 inches diameter, 7 inches tall)
3

Koller AquaView 2-Gallon Aquarium with Filter

Stylish and practical
Amazon.com
8.2
Stylish and practical
The Koller Products AquaView 2-Gallon Aquarium is a stylish and beginner-friendly option, featuring energy-efficient LED lighting and a powerful filter, making it perfect for small spaces. While it boasts easy setup and maintenance, be mindful that the lighting may not support live plants, and the lid design could lead to spills when opened.
Pros
  • Attractive design and color options
  • Easy setup and maintenance
  • Quiet filter operation
  • Durable plastic construction
  • Great lighting features
  • Perfect size for small spaces
  • Ideal starter aquarium for beginners
Cons
  • Ineffective lighting for live plants
  • Lid design may cause water spillage when opened

The Koller Products AquaView 2-Gallon 360 Aquarium is a stylish and compact option for anyone looking to add a touch of tranquility to their home or office. With its vibrant energy-efficient LED lighting available in seven captivating colors, you can easily create the perfect ambiance for your tropical fish. The internal power filter ensures crystal-clear water, making it a delight to watch your fish swim in a beautifully illuminated environment.

Setting up and maintaining this trendy aquarium is a breeze, making it ideal for both beginners and seasoned aquarists. The durable, impact-resistant plastic construction offers leak-proof assurance, while the aquarium’s sleek design fits perfectly on any desk or countertop. Whether you’re enjoying the calming presence of your fish or simply enhancing your space, this aquarium is a wonderful addition to your home decor.

Compact
  • Trendy design suitable for any space
  • Energy-efficient LED lighting with 7 color options
  • Powerful internal power filter with 25 GPH flow rate
  • Crystal-clear clarity made from impact-resistant plastic
  • Easy setup and maintenance for all life stages
4

Aqueon 5 Gallon MiniBow Aquarium Kit

Amazon.com
8
Highly recommended
The Aqueon LED MiniBow Small Aquarium Fish Tank Kit is a fantastic choice for both beginners and seasoned fish keepers, offering easy maintenance with its innovative SmartClean Technology and a sleek design that fits perfectly in small spaces. While the acrylic material may scratch more easily than glass and some users have reported filter issues, the overall user-friendly setup and attractive LED lighting make this a charming addition to your home.
PROS
  • Compact size perfect for small spaces
  • Easy maintenance with SmartClean technology
  • Quiet filtration system
  • Attractive design with bright LED lighting
  • Durable acrylic construction
  • User-friendly setup and operation
  • Excellent customer support for troubleshooting
Cons
  • Acrylic can be prone to scratching more easily than glass
  • Some users experienced issues with the filter stopping after limited use

The Aqueon LED MiniBow Small Aquarium Fish Tank Kit is perfect for both novice and seasoned fish enthusiasts looking for a stylish and easy-to-maintain home for their aquatic pets. With its sleek black design, this 5-gallon acrylic tank features a low-profile LED hood and elevated base, making it an attractive addition to any bedroom, living room, or home office. The included SmartClean Technology allows you to perform essential water changes in less than two minutes, ensuring your fish enjoy a clean and healthy environment with minimal effort.

This comprehensive kit comes with everything you need to get started, including a power filter, filter cartridge, water care, food samples, and a handy setup guide. Designed for small tropical fish like Betta, the MiniBow provides a safe and comfortable habitat while offering a clear view of your colorful aquatic friends. Customers rave about its ease of use and the bright LED lighting, making it an excellent choice for both kids and adults who want a hassle-free aquarium experience.

Compact Elegance for Aquatic Life
  • SmartClean Technology for quick water changes
  • Complete kit with essential accessories
  • Ideal for both beginners and experienced fish keepers
  • Supports a healthy environment for small fish
  • Compact 5-gallon size for versatile placement
5

3 Gallon Plastic Fish Bowl

Stylish but fragile
Amazon.com
7.8
Stylish but fragile
The 3 Gallon Plastic Fish Bowl is a stylish and lightweight option for showcasing your ornamental fish, offering a trendy circular design for 360-degree viewing. While it’s perfect for smaller fish and serves as a great quarantine tank, keep in mind that durability may be a concern over time and it’s best suited for smaller species.
PROS
  • Suitable size for various ornamental fish, including goldfish and bettas
  • Trendy circular design allows for 360-degree viewing
  • Lightweight and easy to move
  • Can be used as an ideal quarantine tank
CONS
  • Durability concerns over time
  • Limited space for larger fish species

The Newpol 3 Gallon Plastic Fish Bowl is perfect for creating a vibrant home for your betta, guppies, or angel fish. Its trendy circular design provides a 360-degree view, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of your aquatic pets from any angle in your room. Made from high-quality clear PET plastic, this sturdy tank is both bright and durable, ensuring a safe environment for your fish.

Weighing just 1.5 pounds and measuring 11.8 inches in diameter, this compact fish tank is not only functional but also makes a wonderful gift for kids, friends, or family members who love aquatic life. Whether you’re using it as a quarantine tank or setting it up as a low-maintenance terrarium, you’ll find it’s an ideal choice to showcase your favorite fish while adding a touch of charm to your space.

Perfect for Aquatic Displays
  • 3-gallon capacity suitable for various ornamental fish
  • Trendy circular design for 360-degree viewing
  • Made from high-quality, durable PET plastic
  • Lightweight and easy to move (1.5 pounds)
  • Ideal as a gift for special occasions
6

2.2 Gallon Self-Cleaning Aquarium with Lighting

Highly recommended
Apply 10% coupon
Amazon.com
7.8
Highly recommended
The Fish Tank Aquarium 2.2 Gallon is a fantastic entry-level kit that combines stylish design with practical features like adjustable 3-color lighting and a self-cleaning pump, making it perfect for small spaces. While setup instructions could be clearer and the filter sponge might need an upgrade, the durable construction and ease of maintenance make it a great addition to your home or office.
Pluses
  • Compact size ideal for small spaces
  • Adjustable 3-color lighting system
  • Self-cleaning 3-in-1 pump for filtration, oxygenation, and water circulation
  • High-definition float glass for clear visibility
  • Sturdy, leak-proof thickened base
  • Easy to set up and maintain
  • Attractive design enhances home or office aesthetics
CONS
  • Instructions may be difficult to understand due to poor translation
  • Default filter sponge quality may require an upgrade for optimal performance

The Fish Tank Aquarium 2.2 Gallon is the perfect blend of style and functionality for your aquatic companions. Designed with an innovative triple self-circulating filtration system, this tank ensures crystal-clear water while providing essential oxygenation and circulation. You’ll love the vibrant ambiance created by the adjustable 3-color lighting system, letting you choose between soothing white, calming blue, or a subtle red to highlight your fish and decorations beautifully.

Constructed from durable HD float glass with a leak-proof thickened base, this aquarium is built to last while providing a stunning 360° view of your underwater world. Assembly and maintenance are a breeze, allowing you to enjoy the tranquil beauty of your tank without hassle. Whether you’re a seasoned aquarist or just starting, this aquarium is a charming addition to any room, making it a delightful home for your fish and a lovely focal point in your space.

Effortless Maintenance and Elegance
  • Triple Self-Circulating Filtration System
  • 3 Colors Adjustable Lighting
  • Durable HD Float Glass Construction
  • Effortless Assembly and Maintenance
  • Complete Entry-Level Aquarium Kit
  • Quality After-Sales Service

Explore Your Options

Tetra Whisper Air Pump, for Aquariums, Powerful Airflow, Non-UL Listed
Tetra Whisper Air Pump, for Aquariums, Powerful Airflow, Non-UL Listed
5.0
Amazon.com
Fluval Flex 15 Aquarium Kit - Fish Tank for Fish & Plants - Comes with LED Lights, Filtration System & More - 16" x 15" x 15" - 57 L, 15 Gal. - Black
Fluval Flex 15 Aquarium Kit - Fish Tank for Fish & Plants - Comes with LED Lights, Filtration System & More - 16" x 15" x 15" - 57 L, 15 Gal. - Black
4.0
Amazon.com

Common Questions About Care and Setup

What are the key differences between an aquarium and a fish bowl?

Great question! Here are the key differences between an aquarium and a fish bowl:

  1. Size: Aquariums are generally larger than fish bowls. They can range from small tanks to very large installations, while fish bowls are typically small and usually hold just a few gallons of water.
  2. Filtration: Most aquariums come equipped with filtration systems, which help maintain water quality by removing waste and toxins. Fish bowls usually do not have filtration systems, meaning you’ll need to change the water more frequently to keep the fish healthy.
  3. Aeration: Aquariums often include aeration systems to provide oxygen for the fish, while fish bowls lack this feature, which can lead to low oxygen levels, especially in smaller bowls.
  4. Ecosystem: Aquariums can support a more complex ecosystem, allowing for a variety of fish and plants to coexist. Fish bowls, due to their small size, limit the types and numbers of fish you can keep, often resulting in a less stable environment.
  5. Maintenance: While both require maintenance, aquariums might require more technical upkeep due to equipment like heaters and filters. Fish bowls need more regular water changes, but they are simpler to maintain overall.
  6. Stocking Options: Aquariums allow for a greater diversity of species, while fish bowls are often restricted to small, hardy fish or even just a single fish due to space limitations.

In summary, if you’re looking for a more stable and diverse environment for your fish, an aquarium is the way to go. If you prefer a simple setup with a small number of fish, a fish bowl might suit your needs!

What equipment is essential for maintaining a healthy aquarium?

To maintain a healthy aquarium, you’ll need several essential pieces of equipment. Here’s a list to help you get started:

  1. Filter: A good quality filter is crucial for keeping the water clean and free from harmful toxins. It helps to remove debris and provides biological filtration, which supports beneficial bacteria.
  2. Heater: If you have tropical fish, a reliable heater will help you maintain the appropriate water temperature. Fish are sensitive to temperature changes, so consistency is key.
  3. Lighting: Proper lighting is important for both the health of your fish and any live plants you might have. LED lights are energy-efficient and provide good illumination.
  4. Test Kits: Regularly testing your water quality is vital. Kits for pH, ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels will help you monitor the health of your aquarium.
  5. Substrate: Depending on the type of fish and plants you have, you’ll need an appropriate substrate. Gravel, sand, or specialized substrates can affect both aesthetics and water quality.
  6. Water Conditioner: Use a water conditioner to treat tap water before adding it to your aquarium. This helps to remove chlorine and other harmful chemicals.
  7. Aquarium Net: A net is handy for feeding fish, removing debris, or transferring fish when needed.
  8. Siphon: A gravel vacuum or siphon helps you perform regular water changes and remove waste from the substrate.
  9. Aquarium Decor and Plants: While not strictly equipment, including decorations and live plants can provide hiding spots for fish and improve the overall environment.
  10. Fish Food: Quality fish food is essential to ensure your fish are getting the proper nutrition.

By having these items in your aquarium setup, you can create a healthy and thriving environment for your aquatic friends!

What is the ideal temperature range for tropical aquarium fish?

The ideal temperature range for tropical aquarium fish is typically between 75°F to 80°F (24°C to 27°C). However, it can vary slightly depending on the specific species you have, so it’s always a good idea to check the requirements for your particular fish. Keeping the temperature stable within this range will help ensure your fish stay healthy and active!

16 Comments
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  1. The 2.2 Gallon Self-Cleaning Aquarium with Lighting sounds interesting! But is it really self-cleaning? I have a small tank right now, and cleaning it is a pain. Would love to know how effective it is!

    • Great question! The self-cleaning feature does help reduce maintenance, but it’s still recommended to do some manual cleaning periodically. It’s a nice option for those who want to ease the upkeep!

  2. I think the Aqueon 5 Gallon MiniBow Aquarium Kit is cool, but I wish it came with a heater option. I live in a colder area, and my fish need some warmth. Anyone else feel the same?

    • That’s a valid point! The Aqueon MiniBow is more suited for room temperature fish. A heater would definitely be a nice addition for colder climates. Thanks for your input!

  3. Thanks for sharing your experience! The Marineland kit is definitely a popular choice for beginners. Glad to hear your fish are happy! 🙂

  4. I absolutely love the Marineland 5 Gallon LED Aquarium Kit! It’s been a great addition to my living room, and the LED lighting really makes the fish pop. Setting it up was super easy, and my fish seem so happy in their new home. Highly recommend it for anyone looking to start their first aquarium!

  5. I can’t believe how cheap the 3 Gallon Plastic Fish Bowl is! I bought one for my kids, and they love watching the fish swim. It’s a good value for a simple setup!

  6. I looked into the Koller AquaView 2-Gallon Aquarium and was impressed by the filter system. Does anyone know if it’s quiet? I want it for my bedroom, but I don’t want a noisy tank!

    • The Koller AquaView is generally well-reviewed for being quiet! It’s a great choice for bedrooms. Hope that helps!

  7. I totally agree with the suggestion of adding more options! What do you think about including the Fluval Spec V Aquarium? I’ve heard great things about it and think it would fit nicely in this list!

    • That’s a fantastic suggestion! The Fluval Spec V is indeed a great aquarium, especially for its design and filtration system. We appreciate your input!

  8. Thanks for the roundup! I was looking for a fish bowl and decided to go for the Aquatic Wonder 1 Gallon Fish Bowl. It’s super cute and perfect for my Betta. Great choice for small spaces!

  9. I was on the fence about which aquarium to buy, but the reviews for the Aqueon and Marineland kits really helped me decide. It’s nice to see others sharing their thoughts too!

  10. I really appreciate this roundup! It’s super helpful for someone like me who’s just getting into fishkeeping. Any chance you’ll update this list in the future with new products?

  11. Hey, did anyone try the Tetra 3 Gallon Aquarium Kit? I heard it has a great filtration system and LED lighting too. Just curious if it stacks up against the ones on this list!

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