Best liquid water test kitAquariumAPI
API Freshwater Master Test Kit
Drop tests for ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, and pH — the kit that prevents mystery fish loss
About $30–$45
Check price on AmazonAPI Freshwater Master Test Kit
Aquatics & Aquarium
Best all-in-one beginner tank kit
Aqueon Aquarium Starter Kit with SmartClean Filtration and LED Lighting, 20 Gallon
Aqueon
We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases.
Glass 20-gallon tank with LED hood, SmartClean filter, and preset heater — cycle before you add fish
About $160–$200
Check price on AmazonAqueon Aquarium Starter Kit with SmartClean Filtration and LED Lighting, 20 Gallon
Our take
Aqueon's 20-gallon SmartClean LED kit is the classic Amazon boxed starter: tank, hood, filter, preset heater, and basic accessories. Gravel, décor, and fish are separate. The hard part is patience — cycle the tank and test water before stocking. Match fish load to filtration, not to how empty the glass looks on day one.
Who it's for: First freshwater tanks where buying pieces separately feels overwhelming.
Skip if: You already own a filter and heater that fit — buy a bare tank instead.
Pros
- Most gear in one box
- LED hood + SmartClean filter included
- Familiar replacement cartridges
Cons
- Heavy glass — plan stand and leveling
- Still need substrate, décor, and a real water-test habit
Specs
- Size
- 20 gallon
- Includes
- LED hood, SmartClean internal filter, EcoRenew cartridge, 50W preset heater
- Not included
- Fish, gravel, décor
Compare nearby picks
Alternatives with different tradeoffs — not clones of the same pitch.
Best liquid water test kitAquarium
Best upgrade hang-on-back filterAquariumFluval
Fluval C3 Power Filter (up to 50 Gal)
Five-stage clip-on filtration when a kit sponge filter is not enough
About $45–$70
Check price on AmazonFluval C3 Power Filter (up to 50 Gal)
Best adjustable heater for small tanksAquariumAqueon
Aqueon Adjustable PRO Aquarium Heater, 50 Watts
Shatterproof adjustable heater for tanks up to about 20 gallons — verify wattage to gallons
About $25–$40
Check price on AmazonAqueon Adjustable PRO Aquarium Heater, 50 Watts