The Top 10 Best HOB Filter in 2023 (Reviews and Buying Guide)

Every aquarist wants their tank to be a clean and safe environment for their marine life. Each tank or aquarium have their requirements. You can’t use standard filters on smaller aquariums as they will overpower the tank.

Small aquariums need HOB filters to keep fishes disease-free. HOB filter stands for Hang-On Back filters. They are designed to be hung on the tank’s sidewalls and take up as little space as possible.

Even though they are small, they are fantastic filters that will keep your aquatic friends healthy and clean. We have reviewed many hang-on back filters and have created the best HOB filter list for you given below.

 

Best Pick and Budget Pick 

Best Pick 

For our best pick, we have chosen the Azoo Mignon Power Filter 150. Undoubtedly it is one of the best HOB filter as it provides strong filtration for smaller aquariums. Most people use hang-on back filters to save space, and this is one of the most miniature filters available.

This filter works for 30-gallons or smaller tanks and has 32 GPH. Even though it is small and made for smaller tanks, it will give you stellar performance with adjustable water flow and incomparable carbon filtration. It is a silent filter and meshes in perfectly with your marine environment.

 

Budget Pick 

Our budget pick is the Marina Power Filter. It is one of the most affordable tank filters, but it delivers excellent filtration. If you don’t want to overspend on a filter, consider this one as it costs half of most filters. This filter’s slim design and high flow rate at 92 GPH is undoubtedly to keep your tank clear and safe.

It takes up very space, small on the back of the aquarium. This filter uses a two-step filtration process and uses Ceramic filtration media on both stages. The filter is self-priming, which is a huge perk. Moreover, it is easy to clean and maintain.

 

Top 10 Best HOB Filter Review 

If you are overwhelmed by the hundreds of choices of HOB filters and don’t know where to start, don’t worry! Because we have listed the benefits and disadvantages of the best hang-on back filters. Let’s read ahead!

 

1. Azoo Mignon Power Filter 150

 

Azoo Mignon Power filter series has the best hang-on filters at a smaller size. The 150 model is one of the best HOB filter in the market. It is suitable for tanks up to 30 gallons and has a flow rate of 150 LPH or 32 GPH. This filter is perfect for nano tanks, as you can easily fit it in 10-gallon tanks as well.

If you have a smaller tank, you know how hard it is to find efficient and premium quality filters, but this device will meet all your needs. This filter blends in well with the surroundings and isn’t noticeable at all.

It has an adjustable water flow rate, which is very crucial while feeding your fishes. You can adjust the flow by rotating the knob and keep the water still if you like. If you turn down the flow rate, the filtration efficiency won’t be impacted at all.

This filter’s intake tube is one of the best hoses you can find. It is clear and contains a black sponge, which is a carbon filter. The carbon filtration of this product is of exceptional quality.

Another great feature is the soundless operation. Despite creating powerful flow at a small size, it works quietly. The noise is so low that it won’t annoy your fishes. Moreover, the water circulation is fantastic and is sure to attract fishes near the cold water flow.

Furthermore, it is an affordable product that provides excellent service. It is durable and easy to maintain. The set pack comes with all necessary items such as sponge concealment covering, extensions for intake, filter sponges, and filter cartridges.

Pros 

• Suitable for small aquariums
• Adjustable water flow
• Sleek design
• Silent operation
• Top rate intake hose

Cons

• Won’t work well on bigger tanks
• Only compatible with rimless tanks

 

2. Marina Power Filter 

 

The Marina Power filter may be a newer model, but it has proven to be highly capable. It is perfect for people with small aquariums and those who are on a budget. This filter is suitable for tanks up to 10 gallons and has a flow rate of 92 GPH.

This filter’s most unique feature is the slim design. It is small but highly effective, which makes it one of the best HOB filter. Since the filter works on smaller tanks, the system is more compact, allowing marine life to have as much space as they need.

It takes up very little space behind the tank. So, if you want a small filter, it doesn’t get better than this. Another great feature of this device is the easy installation process. You don’t have to prime this filter due to this underwater motor. Just place it on the tank and connect the power button.

The screening process happens in two stages, and there are two filter cartridge, Bio-Carb, and Bio-Clear. Both these cartridges have Ceramitek, a very absorbent ceramic filter medium. It maximizes the biological filtration process.

Another plus point of the filter is the adjustable flow rate. You can control the water flow rate to your tank’s needs. Since it is small, the motor is entirely underwater. This aspect makes the filter soundless.

Maintenance is straightforward but needs regular upkeep. The cartridges need to be changed quite frequently. But the process is simple as you only need to remove them from the chamber slot and put it back again after maintenance. This filter needs to be cleaned once per month.

Pros

• Slim design takes up minimal space
• The water flow is controllable
• Ceramic filter medium
• Easy cleaning process
• Self- priming

Cons

• Only for small tanks
• The biological filtration could be better.

 

3. MarineLand Penguin 350 Filter 

 

If you’re a new aquarist and don’t know where to start, consider using the MarineLand Penguin filter. It is easy to handle and install. This filter offers an excellent volume capacity at 50 to 75-gallon, and the flow rate is an incredible 350 gallons per hour.

This filter has a 3-stage filtration process: mechanical, chemical, and biological. It has a two-pump system, and the media is always in contact with the tank water. The rotation system provides adequate oxygen and helps the beneficial bacteria grow.

The feature that puts this filter in the best HOB filter list is the rotating bio wheel. This patented tech offers exceptional wet and dry biological filtration.

It also comes with a bioload, which elevates the filtration process. Moreover, it removes ammonia and nitrate and lets the good bacteria grow in abundance.

You don’t have to worry about leftover fish food with this filter as the Rite-size cartridge will remove any organic remnant. It ensures the cleanest and safest environment for your marine life. The cartridge also prevents odor and discoloration.

One of the cartridge perks is that it notifies you if your tank water level gets too low. The water flow is generally quiet and has a soundless operation. But during lower water levels, the flow will become increasingly loud to alert you. Remember this feature and change your water accordingly.

Furthermore, the installation process is simple. You only have to connect the parts, prime the filter, and hang it on the aquarium sidewall. The water flow is adjustable, so you can change it to fit your needs. For better water circulation, there is a controllable intake hose.

 

Pros 

• Heavy durability
• Top-quality biofiltration
• Perfect for beginners
• Comes with cartridge
• Easy to assemble

 

Cons

• Needs frequent cleaning
• The bio-wheel could be better

 

4. Azoo Mignon Filter 60 

 

Azoo Mignon 60 is another excellent filter from the brand’s HOB filter series. It is one of the smallest hang-on back filters, and the flow rate is 16 gallons per hour. This filter is suitable for tanks up to 4 gallons, so it is a perfect choice if you have a pico or nano tank.

Small-sized aquarium owners know how difficult it is to find a good filter that will fit inside the small tank and provide good service. This product has a slim and sleek design, but it delivers fantastic service. The 60-filter model is one of the best HOB filter for this reason.

Since small fishes or shrimps generally occupy smaller tanks, a big fear is that a filter may suck in the delicate creatures. But you don’t have to worry about that with this filter. It has a cylindrical shaped pre-filter to prevent any living things from being suctioned.

This filter also has an adjustable water flow. You can use the knob to turn down the flow rate or keep the water still. It is handy while feeding fishes or if you have fragile marine plants. The filtration system won’t be impacted by decreased water flow.

The intake tube is of top quality and has a black sponge that acts as a carbon filter. You will get the best carbon filtration from this device. This product also blends in with the surroundings and doesn’t take up much space.

Another fantastic feature is that it is budget-friendly. It comes with all necessary items such as cartridges, intake tubes, filter sponge, etc. So, there’s no need for additional purchases.

 

Pros

• Perfect for pico tanks
• Manageable water flow
• Pre-filter to avoid fish suction
• Powerful filtration
• Comes with required items

 

Cons

• Doesn’t work for standard tanks
• Noisy and vibrating

 

5. SeaChem Fish Tank Filter 

 

SeaChem makes neatly designed hang-on filters. This filter is becoming increasingly popular due to the self-cleaning impeller. The filter is also easy to set-up as it is self-priming, making it one of the best HOB filter. It is suitable for tanks up to 75 gallons.

Media trays of this filter can handle a huge load. It can be loaded with any media to your need, which is ideal for experienced aquarists. This filter pack comes with biological media, but the chemical and mechanical media needs to be bought separately.

It has an adjustable water flow. You can move the front dial on the filter to control the pump’s water flow. The flow is a bottom-to-top type, and so the entire tank water is guaranteed to go through the filtration process. Furthermore, it is eco-friendly and consumes less energy.

If you can’t take the time to clean your filter frequently, this is a good option for you. This product is very low-maintenance as it has a self-cleaning impeller. You only need to clean it occasionally, and there’s an alert to notify you of the date.

This filter is a self-primer as it is placed under the water level. The pump is not only adjustable but also insulated. Which means it is a soundless filter. Therefore, if you don’t like too much noise or have smaller fishes, you should consider this.

The double intake makes it one of the best HOB filter you can find. It comes with a surface skimmer that can screen out the surface water and remove fish oil waste. You can adjust the telescoping intake length. There’s a blue dial to protect the intake opening.

 

Pros 

• Adjustable water flow
• Double water intake
• Self-priming and self-cleaning
• Surface skimmer
• Durable and quiet

Cons 

• Media tray prone to clogging
• Not suitable for tanks with big lids

 

6. Fluval C Power Filter 

 

Fluval is one of the most trusted names in the aquarium filter market. One of their best HOB filter series is the C Power. It has a whopping 5 stage filtration process and improves the water quality by a lot.

This particular model, the C4, is the largest filter in the series. It has a 40 to 70-gallon capacity and a flow rate of 264 gallons per hour. The larger surface of the filter allows for exceptional and thorough water filtration.

The first two steps are the mechanical filtration stages. In this step, the filter utilizes a foam pad to clean as the porous foam side captures more significant debris while the dense polyester side seizes the smaller particles. Chemical filtration happens through the activated carbon in the third stage.

Biological filtration is the fourth step, where the bio-screen is used. The fifth and last phase is the biological C-Node filtration, where ammonia and nitrate are removed. This way, beneficial bacteria thrive inside the aquarium.

If you have smaller fishes or delicate marine life, this product’s re-filtration process is ideal for your tank. You can control the flow rate to match your fishes’ needs. But, decreasing the flow rate will not change the filtration power at all.

Moreover, you can also choose to have your water processed several times through the filter. This way, all the remnants and waste will be screened out, and you will get a safe and clean tank. The filter’s cleaning process is simple as you have to clean the motor every three months and the impeller cover once a year.

 

Pros

• 5 stage filtration process
• High water flow
• Re-filtration system ensures good performance
• Controllable water flow
• Easy to clean

 

Cons 

• The media trays are relatively small
• The foam pad needs frequent cleaning

 

7. Aqua Clear Fish Tank Filter 

 

Aqua Clear makes one of the best HOB filter you will find in 2020. Not only does it possess a high capacity, but it is also adaptable. Its unique design provides space for more media volume. This aspect makes the multi-stage filtration more thorough, and water comes out much clearer.

This particular model is perfect for tanks of 60-110 gallons. The filtration volume is seven times more than other filters of this capacity. It also offers guaranteed maximum biological filtration.

Another unique feature that this filter boasts is the Cycle Guard system. You can use ceramic media to provide extra powerful filtration and results in more transparent water. These features make it ideal for bigger freshwater tanks or nano reef tanks.

You can control the flow rate and reduce it up to 50 percent if you have smaller fishes. To keep the motor in top shape, you can decrease the flow rate now and then. It also has a recirculation grid, which provides your aquarium with the perfect filtration at high efficiency.

The filter pack comes with all required media, so no need for extra purchase. It also comes with an additional product called Amrid, which is a fantastic ammonia remover. The set-up process of this filter is relatively easy. Maintaining it is straightforward, as well.

Hang-on back filters are made for smaller tanks, but this product is the perfect choice for larger tanks. You can install it in any tank up to 110 gallons and be sure of high-quality performance. Even though it is high powered and capable, the operation is soundless.

 

Pros

• Manageable flow rate
• The filtration rate is seven times higher
• Ideal for larger tanks
• Multi-stage filtration
• Optimal biological filtration

 

Cons 

• Debris can get stuck on the propeller
• Expensive

 

8. MarineLand Emperor Filter 

 

Another MarineLand product on this list, the Emperor filter, is an absolute dynamo at water filtration. It is suitable for80 gallon tanks and has a flow rate of 400 GPH, which is incredibly high. This filter offers a 3-stage filtration process.

The factor that sets apart this filter is the patented dual bio-wheel. This tech makes this product one of the best HOB filter you’ll ever come across. Healthy bacteria are necessary for your tank, and the wet/dry biological filtration of the bio-wheel ensures remarkable growth.

Not only does the bio-wheel keep the water disease-free for your fishes, but it creates very little noise. Its quiet operation won’t disturb your marine life. This filter intake tube is one of the biggest you will find in the market. It is compatible with all sorts of aquariums.

This filter is full of innovative designs, and the two-pump system is one of the best. The filtration and flow rate are higher than most standard models. If you want your filter to be cleaned multiple times in an hour, this is the filter for you.

You can load the media trays with a large amount of media as they are quite large. A neat trick is to line up the pellets one after another on every side of the tray for more capacity. It is easy to maintain, as well.

The Assembly process of hang-on back filters is always easy, but this one is more straightforward. You only have to put your media, hang it on the sidewall, and turn it on. To clean it, slide out the media trays and rinse them but never wash the middle of the filter because beneficial bacteria live there.

 

Pros 

• Two bio-wheels
• Very high GPH
• Large intake tube
• Soundless operation
• Easy maintenance

 

Cons 

• The spray bar is prone to clogging.
• Non-adjustable flow rate

 

9. Tetra Whisper Power Filter 

 

If you want quiet hang-on back filters, the Tetra Whisper filter is the best choice for you. Just as the name suggests, this filter works soundlessly while providing fantastic service. It is suitable for 45 to 70-gallon tanks and works excellent for turtle tanks.

Firstly, its quiet operation makes it one of the best HOB filter of 2021. Aquariums with delicate marine life or smaller tanks need low noise filters, which this filter delivers. This filter is the ideal choice for sound, sensitive people.

Another great feature is the continuous water flow to avoid a build-up of waste. The constant flow increases oxygenation. This filter offers 3-stage screening and removes all sorts of impurities like ammonia, nitrate, bad smell, and organic waste.

The water flow is adjustable as you can turn it down to only 10 GPH if you prefer. Tanks that accommodate delicate marine plants and betta fishes need low water flow. This filter is notable for its delicate filtration operation. It works perfectly in those conditions and breeder tanks.

This filter’s simple assembly process is what makes it perfect for novice aquarists. You don’t even have to prime the filter before installing it. Just take it out of the box, hang it on the back of the tank, and turn it on.

It has StayClean tech, which is another massive perk as it makes maintenance easier. The cartridges are designed in a way that there will be no dripping when you change them. This filter also has timestrips to alert you when you need to change your carbon media.

 

Pros

• Runs very quietly
• High oxygenation
• Adjustable water flow
• Cartridges are easy to clean
• Continuous flow to prevent debris build-up

 

Cons 

• Large fishes may jeopardize outtake tube
• For heavily stocked tanks, you need additional carbon media

 

10. Penn Plax Cascade Filter 

 

Penn Plax Cascade HOB filter is one of the most reliable filters you’ll find. It will provide your tank with clean and clear water with its quad-filtration. This filter is perfect for 55-110 gallons tanks, and the flow rate is an impressive 300 GPH. You can use it for both saltwater and freshwater aquariums.

The bio-falls quad filtration puts it on our best HOB filter list. It has the standard 3 stage filtration: mechanical, chemical, and biological and the additional bio-falls system. This system increases tank water oxygenation. Plus, it removes ammonia and nitrate.

It leads to a thriving environment for anaerobic bacteria. This filter comes with an internal sponge, which also increases the growth of beneficial bacteria. The poly fiber floss cartridge captures all types of debris. Moreover, the bio-sponge cartridge is separate from the filter media of the first stage.

Another considerable advantage of this device is the adjustable flow rate. By rotating the flow knob, you can change the water flow to your preference. So, when you’re trying to feed your fishes, you can turn it down.

In addition to the bio-cartridge, there’s a carbon cartridge that eliminates harmful elements. It gets rid of toxins and nasty chemicals while preventing discoloration and odor. This double-sided cartridge has activated carbon on one side and poly fiber floss on the other.

This filter is also straightforward to assemble, and this factor makes it an excellent first-time filter for newer aquarists. It is also affordable, and you get a fantastic performance for a smaller price. Also, it is easy to maintain, and you can customize the filter media to your needs.

 

Pros 

• Adjustable water flow
• Oxygenation optimization
• Quad filtration system
• Internal sponge promotes healthy bacteria growth
• Compatible with different types of tanks

 

Cons

• Can be a bit noisy
• Large intake tube opening; not suitable for small fishes

 

 

Buying Guide for best Hang On Back (HOB) filter:

While HOB filters are simple and straightforward to use, there are certain aspects you must keep in mind before buying on. We have gathered below some essential features you must look for.

 

Filtration 

Most hang-on back filters have a 3-stage filtration process: mechanical, chemical, and biological, as it is the standard filtration system. Some may use only biological and chemical filtration or both.

Few HOB filters have more steps where they use C-nodes. Some filters have a five-filtration system. In the end, it depends on your tank needs. If your tank requires good carbon filtration, look for black sponge carbon or activated carbon filtration.

Some filters have bio-wheels. You can detach it if you don’t want to use it. However, bio-wheels provide an environment for healthy bacteria growth. While cleaning the filter, be careful not to dry or clean the bio-wheel as it will kill the bacteria colony.

 

Flow Rate 

Due to smaller sizes, HOB filters generally have less GPH than standard filters. Some may have similar flow rates as cartridge filters. GPH stands for gallons per hour.

Your tank’s water flow rate requirement largely depends on its size. The best HOB filter can filtrate the entire water of your tanks three to four times an hour. It means if you have a 10-gallon aquarium, you need a HOB filter with at least 30 GPH.

Another critical factor determining the flow rate need is the type of marine life your tank is accommodating. You need a low water flow if you have small fishes or shrimps. Some filters don’t work well on turtle tanks, so be sure to check that.

If you have reef tanks, the water needs to be filtered five to eight times instead of the standard three. Therefore, 10-gallon reef aquariums need HOB filters with at least 50 GPH flow rate.

When it comes to water flow rate, having a filter with an adjustable knob is very important. Many hang-on back filters have this feature, and it can be useful in certain situations. If you maintain a breeder tank, there’s no better feature than an adjustable flow rate.

 

Tank Size 

Hang-on back filters were designed for smaller tanks. As these filters require little space, they give more area to the marine environment. Because of this factor, most HOB filters have a smaller volume capacity.

The best HOB filter can deliver a strong performance despite its smaller size,

and you can find such filters for pico and nano-size tanks that will keep under 10-gallon tanks in top shape. Some hang-on filters will work up to 70-gallon aquariums.

However, if you have a larger aquarium and want to use hang-on back filters, you need to use several of them for clean and safe water. Perhaps pair these filters up with other cartridge filters for better performance.

 

Filtration Media 

Buying a filter with good filtration media is vital as the media is the one that removes all wastes from the tank water. But it doesn’t mean having several types of expensive media will give you a better result. The type of filtration media your aquarium requires is far more critical.

Some HOB filters have new media types, and it is your responsibility as an aquarist to know about their usage and validity. Rather than buying fancy new products, check if it would be compatible with your tank.

The traditional media is the filter sponge. They are affordable and easier to maintain. The best HOB filter comes with bio-media, carbon, and ceramic rings. Ceramic rings are very effective at trapping debris. Sponges with activated carbon are fantastic at filtration.

 

The Motor 

Motor factor of a HOB filter should not be overlooked. It is what pushes the water through the filter. Older models have removable motors. Newer models have built-in ones, so you don’t have to detach it while cleaning.

The best HOB filter will have coverage for the motor impeller. The cover protects it against remnants and makes it durable. Without shielding, unnecessary particles can get inside the motor and decrease their working ability.

 

Water Spouts 

This aspect is another factor that is often not checked while buying. It is just as vital as the motor as it returns the filtered water into the aquarium. Based on the size of the HOB filter, it may have one to two spouts.

 

Maintenance 

Most HOB filter cartridges need to be changed every three to four weeks or once a month. The carbon needs to be replaced every three months. Some filters have alert stripes to notify you when the filter needs to be cleaned. They’re a handy tool to have.

Due to the design, most hang-on back filters are effortless to clean. The parts are easily detachable, and you can put it back together again without much hassle. But some can be a bit difficult to clean, especially the older models.

Some HOB filters have special cleaning requirements like the ones with bio-wheels. You must never clean or dry the bio-wheels as they store beneficial bacteria—clean around that spot. Also, sometimes algae may build-up inside the filter tube, and you need to scrub it out.

If your tank has delicate marine life, it’s better to buy a low-maintenance hang-on back filter. Some aquatic environments shouldn’t be disturbed frequently, so choose according to your aquarium’s needs.

 

Convenient Technologies 

Even though this is not an essential aspect while purchasing a hang-on back filter, it does have its advantages. Some filters offer convenient features that make your maintenance process much more manageable. Such as self-priming and self-cleaning.

Some filters like the Marina Power filter or SeaChem filter have self-priming, so they’re good choices for inexperienced aquarists. Few filters even water level alerts like MarineLand Penguin filter. It reminds you when the tank water needs to be changed.

 

FAQ 

 

1. What is the best hang–on back filter? 

There is no definite best HOB filter as it all comes down to your tank’s preferences. Some filters have additional features like self-priming, extra filtration steps, self-cleaning impellers. You need to think about your tank’s size and the necessary flow rate before making your decision.

 

2. How does a HOB filter work?

These filters have the same operation process as other types of filters. They vacuum the water in and pass it through the filter media. The water is screened for debris and other chemical wastes. Then the clean water comes out through the output tube.

Some may need priming before filtration, and some don’t. The main difference is the installation design that lets the filter hang on the tank wall.

 

3. Can HOB filters work on saltwater aquariums? 

Most hang-on back filters work on freshwater aquariums as well as saltwater ones. The multi-stage filtration system works fantastically on saltwater tanks. Such tanks can filter biologically from the surrounding environment, so your filter needs an intense mechanical filtration process.

If your saltwater tanks are smaller than 20 gallons, you can use HOB filters as the primary filter. However, in aquariums bigger than that, it can work only as a secondary filtration system. You need bigger filters as the primary filter.

 

4. How to install the HOB filter? 

You need to clean it well after taking it out of the box. Put in the filter media into the media trays. Take off the tank lid and place the hang-on back filter on the back wall of the aquarium.

Most filters require priming before placement. To do this, fill the filter with the tank water. Turn on the power and run the filter.

 

5. How to clean a HOB filter?

Remove the filter from the tank and detach the filter media. Check if you need to clean or change the media and use the tank water to clean the filter. You need to use a clean sponge to clean the algae build-up and rinse the filter with purified water. Put back the filter and filter media into its previous place.

 

6. What is the difference between the HOB filter and the canister filter? 

 The first noticeable difference is the size. Canister filters are external devices that take up a lot of space, and you can load more media. They work better on larger tanks.

But HOB filters require smaller spaces as you can hang them on the aquarium wall. They are more suitable for smaller tanks and are cheaper.

 

7. What type of media should I use? 

 It depends on the model of the hang-on back filter. Some filters have three standard media, and some have bio-wheels. You should read the manual guide to check the best media for your filter.

 

8. Why should I use HOB filters?

Hang-on back filters are designed so that it takes up very little space inside the aquarium. This factor makes it perfect for smaller tanks (3-10 gallons). The best HOB filter offers powerful filtration despite its small size. They are more affordable than other types of filters.

 

9. How to make the HOB filter quieter? 

Some newer models provide a soundless operation. But some HOB filters can get noisy if it’s in bad condition such as faulty impeller. You need to check the filter thoroughly. Sometimes you need only to tighten the screws, and sometimes you may need to change the impeller with a new one.

 

10. How to use purigen in this filter?

Purigen has the same task as a carbon filter. You can replace the carbon media with purigen and remove organic waste just as before.

 

Conclusion 

Now you know how to spot an excellent hang-on back filter. There’s no need for smaller aquarium fishes to suffer through unclean water when you can use brilliant filters such as these. You need to understand your tank’s preferences and match them with the above features.

Remember, the best HOB filter is easy to use and install. You need to pick the one that can handle your tank’s size while filtrate water efficiently. All filters listed above are the best ones you can find on the market, and all have their unique perks. Evaluate their features and compare them to make your decision.