External filter recommendations

[Nimblox]

Looking for a solid external filter for my 55 gallon planted tank. Need something quiet, reliable, and easy to maintain. Budget's around $200. What's everyone using these days?

[barbsforlife]

Dude, just grab a Fluval 407. It's kinda pricey but worth it. My barbs love the flow, and it's dead silent. Plus, you can mess with the media baskets however you want.

[armoredfish]

The Fluval 407 is a good choice, but if you're looking for something with more customization, check out the Oase Biomaster Thermo. It's got a built-in heater, which saves space, and the pre-filter is super easy to clean. I've had mine running for two years with zero issues.

[stormer99]

The Fluval 407 is a good choice, but if you're looking for something with more customization, check out the Oase Biomaster Thermo. It's got a built-in heater, which saves space, and the pre-filter is super easy to clean. I've had mine running for two years with zero issues.

I second the Oase recommendation. The heater integration is a game-changer, especially if you're tight on space. Just make sure to clean the pre-filter weekly to avoid clogging.

[Nimblox]

Thanks for the suggestions. Leaning toward the Oase now. How's the noise level compared to the Fluval?

[barbsforlife]

Oase is chill, but Fluval's quieter in my experience. Then again, my tank's in my bedroom, so I'm picky about noise. Either way, you can't go wrong.

[armoredfish]

The Oase is pretty quiet, but it's not silent. If noise is a big concern, you might wanna stick with the Fluval. Both are solid, though.

[stormer99]

Another option is the Eheim Classic. It's not as fancy, but it's bulletproof and whisper-quiet. I've had one running for five years with no problems. Just gotta clean the impeller every few months.

[barbsforlife]

Another option is the Eheim Classic. It's not as fancy, but it's bulletproof and whisper-quiet. I've had one running for five years with no problems. Just gotta clean the impeller every few months.

Yeah, Eheim's a classic for a reason. Super reliable, just kinda a pain to open up for maintenance.

[armoredfish]

True, Eheim's are tanks, but the media baskets are tiny compared to the Oase or Fluval. If you're running a planted tank with heavy bio-load, you might outgrow it fast.