There has been a rising demand for quiet home gadgets and devices in recent times. The various companies have taken this into consideration and have tried to include quiet variations of devices that have previously been known to be noisy and disturbing. Fish tank filters are known to make noises although they may not be very irritating to everyone. The sound of mechanical filtration can be exceptionally annoying when it lasts for a long time. People who need to keep their water filters on for hours, will find this noise disturbing and irritating. While the sound does qualify as white noise, this might not be the case for everyone. It would be quite difficult to study or work when you have this constant noise in the background.
Like many other devices, companies have decided to produce noiseless filters that will solve this problem and help you set up your fish tank peacefully. Since many beginners or new fish parents will be looking for these filters, our team has put together a list of silent filters for their convenience. This list includes the best silent fish tank filters in the market and are easily available on Amazon.
List of Quiet Fish Talk Filters
| Image | Product | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Eheim Classic External Canister Filter with Media |
| Check Price On Amazon |
 | Penn Plax Cascade 1000 Canister Filter |
| Check Price On Amazon |
 | Marina Power Filter |
| Check Price On Amazon |
 | Aqueon Quietflow E20 Internal Power Filter |
| Check Price On Amazon |
 | AquaClear Power Filter – 110V |
| Check Price On Amazon |
This is our curated list of silent filters that will definitely be a good addition to your new aquariums. We have discussed each product and model in detail so that you can decide for yourself which would be the most suitable for you. Jump into the article to know more.
Eheim Classic External Canister Filter with Media
(Recommend by us for overall features)
Specifications
- Type: Biological and Mechanical Filtration
- Dimensions: 8 x 6.3 x 14”
- Weight: 4.49 lbs
- Volume Limit: 66 gal
Eheim Classic External Canister Filter with Media is a great choice for silent aquarium filters in the market. The Eheim brand is actually an old and well-established brand that is popular among marine life lovers. Buying from them will be easy and you won’t have to worry about the quality of the product. This model is one of the most silent filters and can easily compete with other brands and models. The instructions provided can be a little complicated for new users but they will find relevant instructions and videos online for this purpose. For old users who know how to set up a tank can easily assemble this in no time. These aquarium filters have been active in the market for almost 30 years and didn’t have to change its system because it was so good in the first place.
This filter is also easy to clean and won’t require much maintenance work. The end result is simply amazing and the water is crystal clear. This fish tank filter comes with external valves to regulate the water flow for the in and out pipes of the filter. This makes the maintenance of the water level completely hassle free as you can disconnect them conveniently. This is why it is one of the best affordable quiet tank filters.
Features:
- Comes with filter sponges and/or loose filter media
- Spray bar, inlet pipe, hose and installation accessories are provided
- Dual valves for water level regulation
PROS
- Affordable
- Powerful
- Noise free
- High quality build
- Easy to customize filter media
- Easy cleaning and maintenance
- Trusted brand
- Great for tanks with plants
CONS
- Does not look good
- No self-priming
- Complicated instructions manual
Penn Plax Cascade 1000 Canister Filter
(Recommend by us for being value for money)
Specifications
- Type: Mechanical, Biological, and Chemical Filtration
- Dimensions: 4.5 x 7 x 6.5”
- Weight: 12 lbs
- Capacity: 100 gal
The Penn Plax Aquarium Cascade Canister Filter is one great filter that is recommended by many users in the country. It will take some trouble for beginners using canister filters for the first time, though the instructions are quite simple. Canister filters are actually the quieter option if you are sensitive to the sound of filters. This silent aquarium filter is so quiet, that you won’t register the sound at all while it’s working.
Penn Plax claims that you will see aquarium water circulation improvement within a day. It uses heavy-duty external aquarium filtration systems. It is especially good for turtles that make mess more often and make it difficult for other aquarium filters to handle. The motor unit comes with a convenient fold-up handle that allows for ease of pick-up and locating the filter.
The use of high-quality materials makes the construction sturdy. The assembly and installation of the filter is very simple. Disassembling this quiet aquarium filter might seem problematic at first, but you’ll get used to this once you follow the instructions correctly and know them by heart.
Features
- 3 filter media baskets
- Good for up to 100 gallon fish tanks
- Flow valves rotate at 360°
- Easy maintenance
- Includes spray bar, tubing, directional spout
- Push button primer
PROS
- Suitable for both freshwater and saltwater
- No noise
- Powerful
- Large filter box
- Affordable
- Easy to customize filter media
- Great water quality
- Fast results
CONS
- Tubing is long
- Big sized
Marina Slim S20 Power Filter
(Recommend by us for Beginners)
Specifications
- Type: Biological Filtration
- Dimensions: 3.8 x 11.5 x 6.5”
- Weight: 1.88 lbs
- Volume Limit: 20 gal
Marina Slim S20 Power Filter can easily handle up to 20 gallons of water. The size of this power filter is actually relatively smaller compared to other models with similar volume. It is hence more compact and doesn’t need a lot of space. It easily hangs on to the back of your aquarium filter. The build and design of this filter is also very good and won’t require any supervision.
The motor is completely sealed and made to be submerged, along with the cord. This significantly reduces the sound coming of the motor, which helps you control the water flow all the way up to 92 GPH. The self-priming feature definitely is an added bonus as it clears the bubbles in the aquarium water.
Installing the Marina power filter in your aquarium is extremely easy and completely hassle-free. It can be assembled and installed in about 5 minutes.
A good once a week cleanup is recommended for this. Replacements can be done every 4 to 6 weeks at a time. Replacing the cartridges is definitely a con as it comes with a hefty price. This might be difficult for beginners to fulfill.
Features:
- Power filters for aquariums
- Self priming
- Adjustable water level flow
- Comes with 4 filter cartridges: 2 Bio-Carb and 2 Bio-Clear
- Hook on feature
PROS
- Quite affordable
- Noise free
- Hassle-free installation and assembly
- Beginner friendly
- Powerful filters
- Easy to clean
- Good results
- Both cartridges contain Ceramitek
- 2 year limited warranty
CONS
- Cartridge replacements are expensive
- Not good for frequent messes
Aqueon Quietflow E20 Internal Power Filter
Specifications
- Type: Mechanical, Biological, and Chemical Filtration
- Dimensions: 5.75 x 3.94 x 8.19”
- Weight: 1.6 lbs
- Volume Limit: 20 gal
Aqueon Quietflow E20 Internal Power Filter is also a good silent fish tank filter suitable for marine life lovers. This model is great for new hobbyists who are just starting out. It has a simple all-black design and doesn’t stand out too much in your fish tank so it doesn’t distract from the beauty of your aquarium.
The Aqueon Quietflow E20 Internal Power Filter can be attached to the aquarium via a suction cup. It can also hold on to the top of the fish tank. You can decide on which way you would like to place this filter. It has a compact and minimal size yet the Aqueon Quietflow E-20 Power Filter delivers a powerful performance.
The system is so quiet that users have after not registered any sound at all. The water flow from the top is good and is very gentle on sea life such as Betta or Blue Tangs. The aquarium filter keeps your aquarium water crystal clear and all the chemicals at normal levels. You can use your own filter media as the cartridges need to be changed more often. Cartridges are expensive so other media will be more cost effective. Its auto-start feature also helps during power cuts and blackouts. As the filter is quite small, you’ll have to clean it at least once a week.
Features:
- Vertical-oriented internal filter that efficiently cleans and filters the water
- Chemical, biological and mechanical filtration
- Auto-start pump requires no priming
- Flow control rate up to 130 GPH
PROS
- Affordable
- Powerful
- Noise free
- Customizable
- Easy installation process
- Limited lifetime warranty
CONS
- Cover doesn’t stay on properly
AquaClear Power Filter – 110V
Specifications
- Type: Mechanical, Chemical, and Biological Filtration
- Dimensions: 4.5 x 7 x 6.5”
- Weight: 1.4 lbs
- Capacity: 20 gal
The AquaClear Power Filter is an extremely stylish internal filter. It also has many features and is definitely known for its good job. This silent fish tank Filter has a very simple design but is also efficient. It hides itself very well in the corner of a fish tank. The operation is super quiet and you’ll forget it’s even there. The filter comes with a standard 3 stage filtration setup (sponge – mechanical, carbon – chemical, and ceramic balls – biological). It has already received many positive reviews as proof of its excellent features and filter power.
Regular cleaning of the filter and its parts is recommended every two weeks. This quiet filter boasts a consistent clear water level over time. Even though the device is small, it can give sufficient water movement. Please note that it’s best for medium-sized or slightly larger fish. Smaller sea critters could get sucked into the intake tube, so users do report placing a pre-sponge filter over the intake tube.
The large open filter media baskets allow you to customize whatever kind of filter media you prefer over cartridges. Another great bonus to really like about this unit is how readily available the cartridges and replacement parts are.
Features:
- Refiltration system that offers superior contact time with filter media
- Energy efficient pump lowers operating costs
- Filtration volume is up to 7 times larger than comparable filters
- Ideal for aquariums up to 20 gallons of water
- Water flow rate up to 100 GPH
PROS
- Affordable price
- Powerful
- 2 year warranty provided
- Quiet and noiseless
- Works on saltwater filtration
- Large filter box
CONS
- Rattles when impeller needs to be changed
Polar Aurora 4-Stage External Canister Filter
Specifications
- Type: Mechanical, Chemical, and Biological Filtration
- Dimensions: 12 x 12 x 19”
- Weight: 17 lbs
- Volume Limit: 200 gallon
True to its name, the Polar Aurora 4-Stage Filter has an external canister. This filter is for the experienced fish tank keepers who know how to use these filters. The set up is a little complicated so it’s ideal for people with experience. For beginners and new fish tank owners, you’ll find that the Polar Aurora requires a lot more setup work than standard filters.
The unit is made to fit bigger aquariums, up to 200 gallons of water. It sure packs a lot of power, especially with its water flow rate up to 525 GPH. If you own large aquariums that require a powerful filter, this will be the perfect fit. It enhances tank filtration with its special 4-stage canister filters ensuring high water quality.
Once you’re familiar with the features of the Polar Aurora it will become easy to clean and maintain. You should read the instructions carefully for best guidance. The water will not be clear the first time itself. You need to be patient and wait for 1 to 2 days for all the impurities to be filtered out. It has been suggested that you get all the air out of the hoses for maximum water flow. If necessary, set up the intake and spray bar underwater for best results.
Features:
- Good for large tanks upto 200 gallon
- Maximum water flow of 525 GPH
- 4 filter media trays
- Adjustable spray bar
- Self-priming pump
- Built-in 9 Watt UV sterilizer for controlling algae, bacteria
PROS
- Affordable
- Keeps water clear
- UV sterilizer handles bacteria very well
- Powerful
- All media are readily available
- Quiet and noiseless
CONS
- Difficult for new users
- Can’t bend the hoses
- Hard to keep against walls
MarineLand Penguin Power Filter with Multi-Stage Filtration
Specifications
- Type: Biological, Mechanical and Chemical Filtration
- Dimensions: 11.5 x 17 x 10”
- Weight: 1.86 lbs
- Capacity: 30 gal
MarineLand Penguin Power Filter with Multi-Stage Filtration is a great model from an equally great brand. The MarineLand brand has been making aquarium devices for over 40 years which make them a seasoned brand for making high-quality filters. The Penguin Power Filter uses a 3-stage filtration method. The mechanical (utilizes a patented ribbed back for maximum water to carbon contact), the chemical (activated carbon work to removes odors, discoloration and impurities), and biological filtration (gets rid of toxic ammonia and nitrite and proliferates good bacteria to aid with the process).
It is fairly easy to assemble and install. It has no issues with keeping your tank clean. The translucent design allows you to see the water being filtered. It is very compact and will not take up much space on your tank.
If you’ve got a black background, the filter will not be noticeable as it will blend in with its surrounding. This leaves space for extra cartridges or media, depending on your preference. This filter is optimal for your tank set-up, waste filtration, and health. It is also quite value for money with its excellent features.
Features:
- Maximum water flow of 150 GPH
- Good small 30 gallon fish tanks
- 3-stage aquarium filtration
- Compact and small
- Translucent design
PROS
- Pretty affordable
- Quiet and noise free
- Promotes good bacteria
- Powerful
- Replacement pads are easily available
- Trusted brand
- Compact
- Blends in with surrounding
- Excellent results
CONS
- Tubing is a bit long
- Water flow might be a bit too strong
- Not suitable for large tanks
Fluval External Filter
Specifications
- Type: Mechanical, Chemical, and Biological Filtration
- Dimensions: 7.6 x 11.4 x 14.8”
- Weight: 6.4 lbs
- Volume Limit: 45 gal
The Fluval External Filter is an expensive or high-end filter for silent fish tank filters. It is not made to be pretty but the filter does a good job while operating quietly and efficiently. It also requires less maintenance so you won’t have to invest too much time on your fish tank. Setting up the filter is fairly easy. The instructions provided by the brand will be enough to help you in the installation. It can maintain healthy colonies of the bacteria that convert ammonia to nitrite, and nitrite to nitrate for better tank environment.
The filter comes with an adjustment valve to control the flow rate. The company explains that the filters are precisely-engineered for the bearing, which minimizes the impeller vibration and cover in order to minimize noise levels. It tries to control the sound to make filtration a noiseless experience. It’s perfect for bedrooms and workspaces due to its noise cancelation features. If you have fish that frequently makes messes, this will easily handle it. However people are advised not to hang this filter. You can put your own bio media in the trays and the trays just fit together very easily.
Features:
- Multi-stage filtration
- Good small tanks upto 45 gallon
- Equipped with a clog-proof intake strainer
- Sound dampening impeller
- 3 year limited warranty
PROS
- Long warranty
- Quiet and noiseless
- Great for both freshwater and saltwater
- Powerful
- Easily cleans frequent mess
- Beginner friendly
CONS
- Expensive
- Have to keep the hoses straight
- Not suitable for large tanks
- Cannot be hanged
SunSun HW Series External Canister Filter
Specifications
- Type: Mechanical, Chemical, and Biological Filtration
- Dimensions: 10.5 x 10.5 x 16”
- Weight: 12.8 lbs
- Volume Limit: 100 gal
SunSun HW Series External Canister Filter is a good silent fish tank filter from a newer brand. SunSun may be a budding brand but has already won over many fish enthusiasts. The SunSun HW External Canister Filter is perfect for high maintenance aquariums. This glass piece is bulky so you can’t put it directly by the wall. It’s necessary to leave a bit of space for it.
The procedure is that the water from the tank enters the canister & directly goes to the bottom which then goes through all the media & fills up to the top. It then gets siphoned and the filtered water goes back into the tank. The model is so quiet that you will not register its sound at all.
It will take some time to install but it doesn’t require much maintenance so you need not spend too much time on it later. It can last for a few months without having to change the filter. It keeps the water scrubbed crystal clear and is easy to wash when required. The filter runs on electricity and is not battery operated. The tubes are clear so it doesn’t look bad in the aquarium.
Features:
- Good for up to 100 gallon tanks
- Maximum flow rate of 370 GPH
- 3 media trays
- 3-stage filtration
- Comes with a spray bar
PROS
- Great for both freshwater and saltwater
- Quiet and noiseless
- Easy to customize media
- Affordable
- Good for large tanks
- Easy maintenance
CONS
- Bad instructions manual
- Tendency to leak after a year (can be fixed with some silicon grease)
- Small issues in placement
Fluval C Power Filter
Type: Mechanical, Chemical, and Biological Filtration
Specifications
- Dimensions: 6 x 8.2 x 8.5”
- Weight: 3.3 lbs
- Capacity: 70 gal
Fluval C Power Filter is the second Fluval model on this list. The difference between the two is that this is an HOB filter. This brand has also made a name for itself among fish tank lovers and makes reliable and long-lasting filters. It will easily take care of bacteria or fungi that grow in water tanks. There is no assembly required at all as everything is present in one powerful unit. This makes it easier for new users. The model comes with a cleaning indicator that lets you know when the polyfoam needs to be rinsed off. This is highly convenient as it saves time. For optimal performance, it’s recommended to wash the impeller cover assembly once a year. The motor needs to be thoroughly cleaned every three months.
This amazing filter gives crystal clear water and no headaches when it comes to maintenance. The mechanical filter aspect is easy as it’s a cinch to clean, and the replacement cartridges are cheaper than normal and easy to find online.
Features:
- Maximum flow rate of 264 GPH
- Clip on filter
- Equipped with cleaning indicator
- 5-stage filtration
- Pre-assembled
PROS
- Affordable
- Cleaning indicator lets you know when polyfoam needs rinsing
- Extremely easy to clean
- Replacement pads are inexpensive & readily available
- Large volume of water
- No assembly required
- Noiseless
- Beginner friendly
CONS
- Gets noisy over time
- Not suited for very large tanks