The Best 30 Gallon Fish Tanks for 2023

The 30 gallon fish tank is exceptional because it represents the perfect middle ground, transitioning from the beginner tank that is the 20 gallon tank and into the bigger tanks. From here on, it could be quite a challenge setting up mainly because there are not as much all-in-one kits for this size as compared to smaller ones.

This means that as you progress with the 30 gallon fish tank, you must expect to build the set-up from scratch. You must have a bit of know-how in this aspect. And you must also have the best 30 gallon fish tank your arsenal.

If you’re getting overwhelmed with the choices available, fear not. I’ve narrowed the best of the best in my list below.

Best 30 Gallon Fish Tank Reviews 2023

1. SeaClear Acrylic Aquarium Combo Set

If you are searching for a reliable, spacious, and good-looking aquarium for your precious fish, perhaps you want to try the SeaClear Acrylic Aquarium Combo Set.

There are many things about this aquarium kit that impressed me a lot. First is the quality of the acrylic tank itself. I thought at first that acrylic tanks are a far cry from glass tanks. In addition, this 30 gallon freshwater tank has so many positive features that fish keepers will like.

The first is the size. This tank is really spacious, I was able to place 5 gouramis and watch them swim around graciously. My kids really like watching the fish after coming from school.

The acrylic is really durable. It can withstand multiple bumps without breaking, as opposed to a glass tank. With this, I don’t need to worry about buying another aquarium just because the kids have accidentally knocked it over. Also, if it ever happens, I know that the tank will not shatter to pieces.

The filter, on the other hand, is very remarkable. Its three-stage filtration system keeps the water clean and clear at all times. Because of this, the water is free of unwanted particles, harsh chemicals, and harmful organisms that could stain the water and make it uninhabitable. Meanwhile, the light fixture does a great job of illuminating the contents of the tank.

What I don’t appreciate about this aquarium kit is how the acrylic can get warped. Although there are no apparent leaks in my tank, warping can be easily spotted even from a distance.

2. Aqua Culture 29 Gallon Aquarium Starter Kit

Starting with your fishkeeping hobby using a mid-size tank is never easy. You need to get a reliable product that can help you get started smoothly. If you can’t choose among the many products that are sold in the market these days, the Aqua Culture 29 Gallon Aquarium Starter Kit with LED is the one you should be getting.

Here’s what makes this particular 29 gallon aquarium kit so interesting. First, the glass tank is very durable. It can withstand multiple bumps without breaking to million pieces. This tank is very ideal for my home office because I don’t have to worry about my kids knocking it down. Not to mention that the tank is very pleasing to the eyes.

Another positive feature of this 29 gallon fish tank kit is the LED. The light is not only enough to illuminate the inside of the tank, but also enough to become a beautiful decoration in any space where the aquarium is placed. Once lit at night time, anyone who is looking at the aquarium will certainly think that they are inside a submarine.

Meanwhile, the filter is another fantastic accessory of this aquarium kit. It can remove any standing dirt or large particle through its mechanical filtration. Any harmful chemicals are filtered out through its chemical filtration, while harmful organisms such as bad bacteria and fungi are kept away through biological filtration. With this filter, I can be sure that the water is always clean and clear.

While the LED lighting is indeed impressive, there is one thing that I don’t particularly like about this tank kit. I find that the light is not enough to help the water plants flourish inside the tank. Because plants cannot survive inside this tank using the stock LED light, I had to use artificial plants to make the tank look good.

3. Coralife LED Biocube Aquarium

Whether we like it or not, aquariums with automatics features can make our lives infinitely easier, right? If you don’t mind spending money for your next 30 gallon fish tank kit, then perhaps the Coralife LED Biocube Aquarium will satisfy you.

One of the things that immediately impressed me is the sleek design. If I can be honest, I say that this one projects a masculine image. This works perfectly for me because of my two sons. The curved edges really captures attention. In addition, it commands safety and comfort. I can place this tank anywhere in my home without worrying that my kids will get hurt should they accidentally bumped their head in the tank.

The lighting scheme is another impressive feature of this fully-automated 30 gallon tank. The LED lights are programmed to mimic sunrise and sunset. The aim of this feature is to help the fish reorient their senses and help them grow as they should in the open water. This tank has an LED hood that serves not only as a housing unit for the LEDs but also a cover to prevent the fish from jumping out.

The filter, on the other hand, is fully submersible. What I like about the filter is it works quietly. It doesn’t vibrate wildly all of a sudden, unlike other filters in the market. In terms of performance, I have observed that it cleans water flawlessly. I can say that this filter is absolutely compatible with the tank’s fully-automated setting.

What I don’t like about this particular 30 gal fish tank kit is how it is prone to leaks. The stylish black cladding hides rather weak silicone seals behind it. One time when I was attending to other tanks, I heard a strange sound of water. I searched around only to find out that this tank is leaking. After applying an extra coating of silicone seal, the tank is now as watertight as it can be. I just wish I didn’t have to do that.

4. Aqua Culture Aquarium Starter Kit

When it comes to 30 gallon tanks, nothing beats the Aqua Culture Aquarium Starter Kit. With this particular product, you can be sure that you will have an easy life while fully enjoying the benefits of watching fish swim inside the tank.

Trying this 30 gallon fish tank starter kit is one of the best times of my career as a fishkeeper. It is very easy to set up and clean. I also find this tank kit easy to use. Even my twelve-year-old child will find it very simple to operate.

In terms of quality, there is nothing bad I can say about it. The tank is made of strong glass which can tolerate multiple bumps without breaking into many pieces. The filter, on the other hand, provides top-notch performance. It is fully submersible, operates quietly, and keeps the water clean and pristine at all times. With this filter, I never have to worry about rogue particles, harsh chemicals, and harmful organisms which could contaminate the water anymore.

Meanwhile, the LED hood provides maximum protection while giving maximum comfort at the same time. With the little opening located at the corner of the hood, you don’t need to lift the whole cover. I just insert the fish food and within seconds, the fish have a full belly!

What I don’t appreciate about this tank kit is the quality of light in relation to photosynthesis. The light is so weak it cannot support live water plants. I find it really disappointing because I have been meaning to put real plants inside the tank. However, upon realizing how weak the light is, it seems that I would have to use fake plants to decorate the tank.

5. Marineland AMLPFK29B Biowheel Aquarium Kit

Of all the mid-size tanks I have reviewed, this one really surprised me. Aside from being cheaper compared to other brands of similar size, this product really exceeded my expectations. If you want highly reliable 29 gallon tanks to house your beautiful fish and marine plants, then the Marineland (Aquaria) Biowheel Aquarium Kit with LED Light is the one for you.

This product has everything that I’m looking for a great aquarium. It has an amazing LED light that mimics moonlight. This is truly mesmerizing to look at. The tank is properly illuminated without straining the eyes of anyone who looks at it. Furthermore, the LEDs are housed in a hinged hood which provides great convenience. When I’m feeding the fish, all I have to do is to lift the front portion of the hood to open it, drop some fish food into the water, and close it the hood down.

Another remarkable feature of this aquarium kit is the filter. It keeps the water crystal clean and smell-free 24/7. With this filter’s mechanical filtration, I don’t need to worry about leftover fish food polluting the water. In addition, the chemical filtration takes care of the nasty chemical residues which could poison the fish and turn the water foul. The biological filtration, on the other hand, prevents unwanted bacteria and fungi from thriving and taking over the ecological condition of the tank.

One thing that discourages me from completely giving this product a good 5-star rating is the difficulty to find it online. I had to search the internet thoroughly before I could find where this product is being sold.

6. Marineland Glass Cube and Column Aquarium Tank

If you are tired of using the same old boring-shaped aquariums, Marineland (Aquaria) AMLNV18080 Glass Cube and Column Aquarium Tank, 27-Gallon would certainly spice things up a bit for you.

Even though this product only has the aquarium on the package, it really is a serious product for all fishkeepers. It is a cube-shaped tank that provides a classy vibe and looks. I find this very interesting since almost all of my fish tanks look the same. The design of this 27 gallon tank is very charming. It certainly draws your attention and never lets it go. Honestly, this is the tank’s greatest feature. This tank can certainly be used for decorative purposes.

Another remarkable feature of this tank is the quality of the glass. It is scratch-proof and distortion-proof, which are both important in my opinion. This way, the tank won’t easily break even if it suffers multiple bumps and scratches. There are small kids in my home that’s why these qualities are very important to me.

What I don’t appreciate about this product is the false advertisement. In the product description, the image has a cover or canopy. At first, I thought that this was an additional feature. However, I was really shocked to learn that the product was just the tank itself. I hope that the company just post the picture of an empty tank instead to prevent luring hopeful hobbyists.

7. Fluval Accent Glass Aquarium

If you want a fully automated filter which can help you not only clean the water, but also help you drain the water easily, the Fluval Accent Glass Aquarium, 25-Gallon is the best product for you. It uses the latest technology that will help you have an easy time taking care of your favorite fish.

Even though this aquarium kit is only 25 gallons, there are still so many things to get excited about. First is the amazing LED lights. This lighting feature does not only illuminate the contents of the tank but also provides a decorative effect especially if strategically placed inside the house. Furthermore, the LEDs have a unique feature: it mimics daytime and nighttime light settings. This is perfect for tropical fish that you want to ensure proper environmental conditions in order to thrive.

Another thing that impressed me is the one-touch SIMPLETEC filter. One press of the button and it will clean the water and make sure that there are no standing particles, harsh chemicals, and harmful organisms that could affect the fish and plants inside the tank. Moreover, this feature can also make your life easier because it can drain the water from the tank using the same feature. Replacing the water will still need manual labor using the water bucket, though.

One thing that I do not like about this product is how the water leaks if the tank gets overfilled. I do not know about the other tanks that other customers who bought this but my tank surely leaked on the side. Perhaps the silicone sealing gave up and made a tiny hole that let the water through. I still have to have to investigate and patch the tank as of this writing.

What To Look For When Buying 30 Gallon Tank

The midsized (or average-sized, as known to some) aquariums are arguably the most known tank size in the world. Famous for its size that is perfect for those beginning in the aquarium collecting hobby, as well as the seasoned hobbyists in the scene, the midsized tanks boast versatility in a number of factors.

And right the middle of the midsize variations is the 30 gallon fish tank.

So what are you supposed to look for when buying a 30 gallon fish tank? When I was a beginner in the hobby scene, this was one of my questions as well. And as I have progressed through the years, I have a few key pointers in choosing the perfect 30 gallon aquarium for you.

The Right Placement

Unlike the case with nano fish tanks where finding the proper placement is easy as a breeze because of its small size, finding a proper placement for the 30 gallon fish tank would require a bit of planning. Since the 30 gallon tank is visibly bigger, it could cause quite a few hindrances when not placed properly.

This is where it all boils down to. Will the tank be perfect for the placing? Will its dimensions line up with the spot you have chosen? And will the material you have chosen work great with the designs and plans you have for your tank? Take time for careful consideration and deliberation regarding this, there is no rush.

There are a number of factors to consider. One of the main ones is weight. The 30 gallon tank, when filled with water (and the assorted decorations inside) can weigh anywhere upwards of 48lbs. Because of this, the strength of the tank’s holder should be considered, as well as safety.

You should also consider the temperature as well as the location’s lighting. Because the 30 gallon tank is heavier and evidently bigger, the constant changing of the placement can prove to be tiresome.

Lastly, consider the aesthetic placement of the tank. A decorated 30 gallon tank can provide therapeutic visuals that are refreshing to the eyes, and it is a great addition to any room. Be it in a receiving area, in an office, or even in a study. Choose a spot carefully and commit to it.

The Right Dimensions

Unlike with the other, more famous tanks, the 30 gallon tank only comes with a couple of variations. First, there is the 30 gallon long tank, and then there is the 30 gallon breeder tank. They slightly differ in dimensions, the 30 gallon long tank being 36 1/4 x 12 5/8 x16 ¾, while the 30 gallon breeder tank is measured at 36 3/16 x18 1/4 x12 15/16. Both variations function the same.

The great thing about midsized aquarium tanks such as the 30 gallon fish tank is that these tanks are easier to clean. The nitrogen cycle that occurs from inside the tank would not have as much build-up, and if it does it would take a longer time than nano tanks. Because of this, the harmful changes in the water’s chemistry would not be greatly affected. Aside from this, the 30 gallon tank is just the right size to have an average running cost, which is great news to the owner.

The Right Make

The 30 gallon tank is quite a versatile tank, and it is no surprise that it comes with a couple of variations in terms of make.

• Glass

Glass is the classic material used in traditional tanks. One advantage it has is that it is scratch resistant. There are no wrong choices for the décor and the equipment you are to use for the tank, none of it will scratch glass so deeply that it affects the general visuals of the fish tank.

Another advantage of the glass tank is that it has rigid panels, meaning they are not likely to be dented. This speaks a lot about its general durability. It also provides less visual distortion for the tank. It is glossier and much clearer than acrylic. One of its most amazing features is that it would not turn yellow over time, which says a lot about long term investment. It is also non-porous, and last but not least, it is an affordable option.

• Acrylic

Acrylic is another material that is widely used in 30 gallon fish tanks. One advantage it holds over the competition is that it is lighter between the two. It is way easier to move around and lift, and would also require less of the tank stand (although it would not hurt to play it safe!).

Another important advantage it has is that with the acrylic make, the shapes of the 30 gallon tanks are not limited to your plain, old version. A key advantage of the acrylic make is that it holds a better impact resistance as compared to the glass tank.

The make and material of your tank depend entirely on the direction you choose for it, so be sure to consider this before choosing.

The Right Pricing

Since the all-in-one kits available for starter tanks like the 20 gallon tank is not as available for most 30 gallon tanks, the tank’s price is a factor that should not be overlooked.

One matter that seems to be often overlooked (even by long-time collectors such as myself) is the warranty factors. Some brands offer cheaper tanks but are not as durable. Other brands have pricier tanks, and sometimes it is because of the tank’s warranty. The warranty represents the brand’s faith in the product, and it also serves as a fallback for you in the long run.

When choosing the perfect 30 gallon tank for you, remember these important factors beforehand! Knowing is already half the battle, and learning about these factors will help you greatly with a better fish tank collecting experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most trusted 30 gallon fish tank brands?

There are less than a dozen trusted brands for 30-gallon aquariums, most of which I have featured in the list of top ones above. These are:

• Seaclear
• Aquaculture
• Coralife
• Marineland
• Fluval
• Marina
• Aqueon

How to Set-Up and Use the 30 gallon fish tank?

The first step in setting up a 30 gallon tank is to clean the tank itself thoroughly. After doing so, then you should plan the placement. Although the 30 gallon fish tank is only a midsized tank, planning its placement is not as easy as the placement planning done for the nano entry tanks, which only takes a few minutes at the very least.

With the 30 gallon tank’s size, and the weight it would carry, the placement needs to be solid and sturdy. Prepping the water is next, which is done by placing the water you are to use in a separate tank and letting it sit to rid of unwanted chemicals. As you wait for the water, plan the design and the route you are to take with the tank and decorate it. After sitting for a couple of days, fill the tank with half your water as your prime and test out your other equipment.

After this, fill the tank with all the water and let it sit for a couple of days. This process might be sped up with live plants and some biological filter media. Only after completing this process will you be able to stock the tank with the fish of your own choosing.

How to Take Care of and Clean the 30 gallon fish tank?

One great aspect with the 30 gallon tank is that its size is big enough to prevent the visible waste build-up from inside the tank. With the smaller tanks, a tight cleaning schedule is needed in order to maintain the water integrity, as the space is small and is easily overtaken by the nitrogen cycle.

The 30 gallon tank is perfect for beginners since it is easier to clean and therefore does not require as rigid a schedule. This is assured by the filtration that occurs from inside the tank namely the biological, mechanical, and chemical filtration.

With the biological filtration, the biological media in your filter, as well as the whole tank space, is utilized by the friendly bacteria in order to build an active colony. These non-harmful bacteria aid the tank owner in cleaning as it breaks down the debris left by the surplus of food, excrement, etc.

The mechanical filtration, meanwhile, captures the bigger debris in the media and aids the owner by making the clean-up easier. The chemical filtration occurs when tank chemicals are added to the tank or by way of filter media, and it improves water quality by breaking down the unwanted toxins in the tank water.

Basically, aside from the owner physically removing floaters from time to time and cleaning the filters, the cleaning is done from the inside.

Where to buy?

For all your aquarium-related equipment, you can always visit your local pet store. You can also check with Walmart, PetSmart, PetCo or even HomeDepot. But if you want to make your life easier, just get yours at Amazon!

Conclusion

You are now venturing into the realm of the aquarium enthusiast, and not just a curious dabbler. It is therefore highly recommended to choose nothing but the best 30 gallon fish tank, especially if this is your first time getting one. Once you have you marine life set up, you won’t regret a single bit of it.