Most aesthetic people like to embellish their house with a turtle aquarium. Turtle is one of the cutest creatures on the earth and an adorable one, just like other pets. However, these aquatic organisms are so messy in behavior compared to other aquatic pets.
They contaminate the water very quickly, which can have a detrimental effect on the pet’s health. At this point, you need a reliable water filter to ensure a clean habitat for your turtles. Thankfully, several turtle tank water filters are available in the present market.
But choosing the best quality among thousands of aquarium filters is pretty confusing. Today we’ve come up with the ten best turtle tank filters to help you ensure your pet turtle friend can swim around happily like a free bird!
What’s the Best Filter for Turtle?
The best filters for your turtle friends are essential to ensure your pet’s healthy life. Buying an inferior quality filter can make you clean the aquarium by yourself, nothing but an extra nuisance. An ideal turtle water filter is designed to supply a tremendous water flow rate.
These filters are made in a way that the filtration process won’t negatively affect your turtles. Also, the best filter can extend the life of your little pet friends.
Generally, all turtle water filters can’t be capable of providing overall good service. We’ve made a shortlist featuring which filter is perfect for which purpose. Hopefully, now you can make a suitable choice among those distinct features based on your requirements.
Our Top Picks
- Best For Maintenance: Tetra Whisper Internal Aquariums Filter (25816) – “For its simple and convenient design, the turtle filter only needs to be placed inside your tank. Also, this turtle tank filter uses large cartridges to provide three filtration processes.”
2. Best For Cleanup: Tetra Decorative Repto Filter – “Owing to Whisper three-stage filtration system, these turtle tank filters remove odor. Plus, it features an immediate water flow while cleaning the water.”
3. Best For Water flow: Penn-Plax Cascade 600 Submersible Aquarium Filter – “Design with versatile water flow options makes this one the best filter for turtles. It has a customizable flow switch, allowing you to increase or decrease the water flow rate based on your requirements.”
4. Best For Budget: AqueonQuietFlow Aquarium Power Filter – “The QuietFlow canister filter is best known for its powerful and soundless performance.”
5. Best For Usability: NO.17 Submersible Aquarium Internal Filter – “Ensure a fresh, healthy environment for your aquatic turtles with this canister filter! This turtle water filter purifies 200 gallons of water per hour, with its 8W pump.”
6. Best Silent Pump: Tetra Fauna Repto Filter – “Enhance the aquarium look with its outstanding waterfall feature! This Repto canister filter is suitable for low water levels.”
7. Best For Shallow Water Level: Aquarium Turtle Filter – “The Aquarium Turtle Filter is perfect for shallow water tanks and will give you the best result for 1.6 inches.”
The 7 Best Water Filter for Turtle Tank Reviews
The most crucial point to look for while purchasing a new tank filter for a turtle is if the water filter is potent enough for your turtle tank. Here, a turtle owner makes a big mistake. They assume that filters designed for aquarium fish tanks are adequate for turtles. But actually, filters specially made for aquatic turtles are more qualified than conventional ones.
The ten water turtle filters added in our article have achieved customer satisfaction all over the world. Notably, they have been applauded as an appropriate turtle filter after editorial analysis.
Best For Maintenance: Tetra Whisper Internal Aquariums Filter (25816)
Technical Specifications
- Weight: 1.45 Pounds
- Overall Dimensions: 4.88 x 5.38 x 10.19 inches
- Capacity: Up to 30 Gallons
- Filtration Type: 3-stage filtration system
Are you looking for a budget-friendly turtle filter? The Tetra Whisper Internal Aquariums Filter is one of the cheapest and quietest turtle filters in the industry. This company is dedicated to providing a successful aquatic experience to aquarium enthusiasts.
For its simple and convenient design, the turtle filter only needs to be placed inside your tank. Also, the turtle tank filter uses large cartridges to provide three filtration processes. Thanks to its AERATESAir-driven design, it oxygenates up to 125 GPH.
Besides, this turtle canister filter includes a universal clip. With this simple clip, you can quickly adjust the water level for your turtle tank. The Tetra Whisper filter features double-sided mesh pads to catch all debris or turtle waste.
At the end of it all, the Tetra Whisper Internal Aquariums Filter is a perfect option for those who’re looking for an affordable, dedicated filter. As an advantage, the manufacturers offer two years warranty for their users.
Pros
- Integrates clip to customize the flow rate
- Made of rigid plastic materials
- A massive filter cartridge and bio-scrubber is added to the package
- It filters up to 125 gallons of water per hour
- Noise-free operation
Cons
- It might be too large for a smaller aquarium
Best ForCleanup: Tetra Decorative ReptoFilter
Technical Specifications
- Weight: 2 Pounds
- Overall Dimensions: 8.75 x 12.75 x 10.65 inches
- Capacity: Up to 55 gallons tank size
- Filtration Type: 3-stage filtration
Install this Tetra Decorative ReptoFilter and takes your aquarium environment to the other level! These canister filters are specially designed for frogs, turtles, and newts.
Effective performance and aesthetic view perfectly define this Tetra Decorative Tank Filter. This turtle filter comes in a natural stone design and blends nicely with the environment surrounding the tank. Owing to Whisper three-stage filtration system, these turtle tank filters remove odor.
Plus, it features an immediate water flow while cleaning the water. The working process is so simple. This turtle tank filter works well for shallow water levels. All you need set the water level within 4 to 6 inches and place the stone on any side of the terrarium.
With this TetraFauna Decorative Reptofilter, you can experience a celestial water flow. Anyone who wants to give a beautiful look to turtle habitat can choose this fabulous piece. After installing this water filter, you don’t need to worry about unwanted accidents. These turtle filters have locking covers, ensuring a perfect basking area.
Pros
- The whisper filtration process ensures an odor-free environment
- Feature substantial intake holes that control clogging
- Uses locking covers for animal protection
- Includes two medium cartridges with the filters
- Can perform as embellishment and absolute basking zone
Cons
- The water lever can’t enhance due to its low height.
Best For Water Flow: Penn-Plax Cascade 600 Submersible Aquarium Filter
Technical Specifications
- Weight: 2.14 Pounds
- Overall Dimensions: 12 x 5 x 3 inches
- Capacity: 20 to 50 gallons
- Filtration Type: 3-stage filtration process
Give your little aquarium friends a vibrant life through this water filter! The Penn-Plax Cascade 600 Aquarium filter is one of the most heavy-made canister filters you can trust. Notably, these turtle filters come in a complete submersible design.
The central attraction of these aquarium filters is their activated carbon cartridges. Thus, this carbon filter dispels pernicious odors, toxins, and chemicals from the aquarium area. Also, the inner sponge controls the growth of bacteria.
Design with versatile water flow options makes this one the best filter for turtles. It has a customizable flow switch, allowing you to increase or decrease the water flow rate based on your requirements. This fact will help you while feeding your turtles.
With its convenient flow nozzle, you can customize the flow direction. As an advantage, it features a spray bar. This bar uniformly delivers the refined water above the aquarium surface. Using a Venturi Aeration system, this turtle tank filter provides oxygen-enriched water.
We’re pretty amazed at the filtration process and water flow efficiency of this turtle water filter. If you’re an avid aquarist, this one may be a wise choice.
Pros
- The shell is made of hard plastic to ensure longevity
- Three-stage filtration removes most harmful chemicals
- Self filter priming feature
- Modifiable water flow options
- The filtration cycle is 175 gallons per hour
Cons
- The quality of the handle is not so good
Best For Budget: AqueonQuietFlowInternal Power Filter
Technical Specifications
- Weight: 1.2 pounds
- Overall Dimensions: 6.4 x 6.3 x 3.8 inches
- Capacity: Up to 20 gallons tank size
- Filtration Type: 4-stage filtration
If your budget is slightly higher, yet you’ve got a decent turtle tank, the AqueonQuietFlowInternal Power Filter is an intelligent choice for you. The QuietFlow canister filter is best known for its powerful and soundless performance.
Four physically large stages of filtration will make your turtle aquarium a better and healthier place for your pets. Besides, a 25% effective carbon medium cartridge is included to reduce all dissolved debris. The way it improves the water quality is utterly fantastic.
If your cartridges are blocked with junk and need to change them, a built-in LED light flashes quickly. Also, no need to worry about additional maintenance as the filter starts up directly after washing. Since the filter pump comes in an internal design, this power jet filter ideally removes noise and prevents leaks.
One bonus point of this QuietFlow Internal Power Filter is a phenomenal flow rate. With its Bio-Pin Wet Dry Technology, it helps to grow lucrative bacteria that reduce nitrates and ammonia. All in all, buying this turtle filter is undoubtedly a wise investment for a turtle owner.
Pros
- Wet/ Dry, mechanical, biological, and chemical stage filtration for healthiest water.
- Enhances oxygen volume and alleviates noise
- Sturdily built for the budget
- Offers lifetime warranty
- Patented Bio-Pin biological filtration for enhanced fish health
Cons
- Sometimes it creates a loud sound
Best For Usability: NO.17 Submersible Aquarium Internal Filter
Technical Specifications
- Weight: 14.39 Ounces
- Overall Dimensions: 9.7 x 3.3 x 2 inches
- Capacity: 10 to 50 gallons
- Filtration Type: Multiple stage filtration
Whether you want to install a turtle filter in your aquarium or rock garden fountains, the NO.17 canister filter is decisively a good deal for its high-quality built. These filters come in various sizes, 6W, 8W, 12W, and 15W. So, you can choose one based on your turtle tank size.
Ensure a fresh, healthy environment for your aquatic turtles with this canister filter! This turtle water filter purifies 200 gallons of water per hour with its 8W pump. Furthermore, it comes with pump nets, which protect the pump from getting stuck while filtering.
With this submersible aquarium filter, you’ll get purified water flow thanks to its multiple filter media trays. On top of that, this aquarium filter is made of resin and ABS plastic, ensuring protection from alkaline, acid, and corrosion.
Also, we can’t avoid the fact of installation and functionality. This marvelous device offers a noise-free operation along with straightforward installation. Notably, you should make sure to clean the filter within two months for long-lasting usability.
Pros
- Convenient installation and easy washability
- Multiple stage filtration ensures a fresh habitat
- It comes with a limited 180 days warranty
- Flexible nozzle for water flow customization
- The filtration cycle is 200 GPH
Cons
- The filtration attachments are not so good
Best Silent Pump: TetraFaunaReptoFilter
Technical Specifications
- Weight: 29.1 Pounds
- Overall Dimensions: 30 x 17 x 11 inches
- Capacity: Up to 50 gallons
- Filtration Type: 3-stage Tetra filtration
From a variety of high-quality fish foods to advanced equipment, Tetra makes everything that an aquarist needs. The TetraFaunaReptoFilter is one of their innovative addition for aquarium enthusiasts.
Enhance the aquarium look with its outstanding waterfall feature! This Repto canister filter is suitable for low water levels. All you keep the water level within 2 inches for a better outcome. Three large filtration systems are incorporated in the filter for a healthy environment.
In this way, it removes waste, odors, discoloration, and toxic elements. Thus, you can get fresh, healthy water after whole mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration. When it comes to maintenance, these filters are way too easy for installation and cleaning.
Furthermore, the top area includes a lid to protect the little pets from going into the pump. If you’re looking for a quiet filter, we would like to recommend this brilliant piece.
Pros
- Super silent operation
- Bio foam helps to cultivate beneficial bacteria
- Leave a lot of space in the aquarium
- Simple maintenance
- The filter intakes protect from clogging
Cons
- The suction cup is not much effective
Best For Shallow Water Level: Aquarium Turtle Filter
Technical Specifications
- Weight: 13.76 Ounces
- Overall Dimensions: 8.27 x 3.66 x 2.76 inches
- Capacity: Up to 40 gallons
- Filtration Type: 2-stage filtration system
Whether you’re a dedicated hobbyist or a beginner aquarist, the Aquarium Turtle Filter comes in handy with some practical features. It is possible to attach either hang-on mode or suction mode.
Activated carbon cartridge and bio-foam remove all harmful wastes, leaving a clean environment. Plus, it includes an inner cover sponge. This sponge prevents the filter debris run into the powerhead. In a word, the filtration process is so effective to ensure a good condition for pets.
However, you need to wash the sponge every one or two weeks for maximum performance. The Aquarium Turtle Filter is perfect for shallow water tanks and will give you the best result for 1.6 inches. If you want to get optimum water circulation with superb cleaning, you must keep the water within 1.6 inches.
An ideal aquarium filter for reptiles and amphibians! Besides, a water flow can be created by placing some pebbles or rocks inside the space of fish tanks.
Pros
- Two different fixing modes
- Includes carbon cartridges and bio-ball to provide a healthy habitat
- Best works for 1.6 inches or 4 cm water level
- Provide noiseless function
- High-quality motor with a lovely waterfall feature
Cons
- The hanging clips may seem loose
Key Considerations
As we have mentioned before, all turtle filters are not the same. Some models come with an average performance. On the other hand, some are suitable for a particular application.
Despite that, we’ve highlighted some crucial points that you must consider before purchasing the best filter for turtles. Without further ado, let’s jump straight to the buying section!
Tank Size
Sometimes a tank owner forgets to consider the tank size, an essential point that they can’t avoid. The power and condition of the filter depend on the size of your tank. For example, you own a 40-gallon tank with two or three turtles, and they make the water dirty so quickly. In this case, you must need a powerful filter to manage this bigger tank.
Flow Rate
The value of the flow rate is assumed to be huge. If your filter can run more water, you won’t have difficulty in keeping the tank washed. Thus, it’s essential to choose one with a high flow rate to get a safe environment for turtles.
Filtration Type
Generally, three-stage filtration processes are standard in most turtle filters. The filtration stages are- mechanical, biological, and chemical types. In contrast, some high-quality filters use one additional step called wet/dry technology.
Losing one or two steps are not a significant problem, but these three or four steps make a considerable difference. So, choose an absolute filter with a multiple-stage filtration process.
Built quality
Most of the turtle tanks are made of plastic material. However, the point is how solid the material is. The filter designed with rigid plastic material should be your primary choice.
Maintenance
When it comes to maintenance for turtle tank filters, this is indeed a crucial point to consider. It’s best to make sure that the installation and disassembled methods are convenient and straightforward. Most popular brands provide accurate instruction on turtle filter maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do you need a large filter for many turtles?
If you have 3 or 4 turtles in your aquarium, then a massive filter is needed. However, your tank size is a significant point here. If your tank capacity is more than 200 gallons, you must choose a large filter with an efficient filtration process.
Can you use fish tank filters for turtles?
Using fish tank filters for turtles is possible. Most manufacturers make high-end versatile filters, which are suitable for both fish tanks and turtle tanks.
How often do you need to wash the tank with filters?
Tanks need to be cleaned once a week to ensure a healthy and improved pets life. Even the aquarium water looks fine, but it can be smelly. Changing the water from the whole tank every one or two weeks and then cleaning the filter is an inevitable task.
Summary & Top Picks:
A water filter is a must-have item if you own a turtle aquarium. People use these filters to reduce the working pressure of regular maintenance. Besides, this one helps to give a secured and healthy habitat to your pets.
However, choosing the best turtle filters can be a difficult task. But don’t worry. We’ve made a detailed list containing the seven best turtle water filters. All the products added to our list are compatible enough to provide superb performance.
However, if you want to know about a single winner, we recommend Penn-Plax Cascade 600 Submersible filter. This device is close to excellence and acquires a lot of positive feedbacks.
We hope that our buying guide can help you get a fair idea about turtle filters. At last, we suggested you make an ideal choice after considering all the indispensable features.