Best All In One Reef Aquarium – Top Picks For Saltwater Tank

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Setting up a reef aquarium can be overwhelming. Not only do you have to choose the right fish and corals, but you also need to select the right aquarium, filter, and other gear. To make matters more complex, you might even find some tank accessories to be a less than perfect fit. From filters that are too small to pumps that are too noisy, it can be tough to outfit your reef tank perfectly.

But don’t worry – we’re here to help. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best all-in-one reef aquariums on the market. These tanks are designed to make life a little bit easier for you, and they come with most of the gear you need already included. So whether you’re a beginner or an experienced reef keeper, we’ve got you covered.

Comparison Table Of The 5 Best All In One Reef Aquarium

IMAGE

Fluval Sea EVO Aquarium Kit - 13.5 gallons

BRAND

Fluval Sea EVO Aquarium Kit – 13.5 gallons

DETAILS

  • Brand: Fluval
  • Color: Black
  • Material: Glass
  • Item Dimensions LxWxH: 23.4 x 13.5 x 15.6 inches
  • Item Weight: 28 Pounds
  • Shape: Rectangular
GankPike 12 Gallon Saltwater Aquarium (Full Bullnose Shape)

BRAND

GankPike 12 Gallon Saltwater Aquarium (Full Bullnose Shape)

DETAILS

  • Brand: GankPike
  • Material: Glass
  • Item Dimensions LxWxH: 20.5 x 10.75 x 14 inches
  • Item Weight: 28 Pounds
  • Shape: Bullet Shape
  • Target Species: Fish, Coral, Reef, Sea horse, Marine creature
BioCube Coralife Size 32 LED Aquarium & Stand (New Improved Version) Combo

BRAND

BioCube Coralife Size 32 LED Aquarium & Stand (New Improved Version) Combo

DETAILS

  • Brand: BioCube
  • Color: Clear
  • Material: Glass
  • Item Dimensions: L 21.5″ X W 20.5″ X H 29.5″
  • Shape: Square
GankPike 8-Gallon Curved Corner Glass Saltwater Aquarium

BRAND

GankPike 8-Gallon Curved Corner Glass Saltwater Aquarium

DETAILS

  • Brand: GankPike
  • Color: Black
  • Material: Glass
  • Item Dimensions LxWxH: 13.8 x 11.8 x 11.8 inches
  • Style: Bent Glass
  • Shape: Double bullnose corner Rectangular
JBJ Nano-Cube All in One Tank, 24 Gallon

BRAND

JBJ Nano-Cube All in One Tank, 24 Gallon

DETAILS

  • Brand: JBJ
  • Primary Color: Black
  • Line: Nano-Cube
  • Material: Glass
  • Volume: 24 GAL
  • Item Dimensions LxWxH: 18 x 19.6 x 19.7 inches

Best All In One Reef Aquarium – Top Picks For Saltwater Tank

Now that you have a better idea of how to pick the best all-in-one kit for you, let’s take a look at some of the top options on the market. These options are based on our own personal experience and the experiences of other reef keepers. So whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or something more luxurious, we’ve got you covered!

1. Fluval Sea EVO Aquarium Kit – 13.5 gallons

Fluval Sea EVO Aquarium Kit - 13.5 gallons
  • Brand: Fluval
  • Color: Black
  • Material: Glass
  • Item Dimensions LxWxH: 23.4 x 13.5 x 15.6 inches
  • Item Weight: 28 Pounds
  • Shape: Rectangular

Looking for something that’s simple to set up and comes with most of the gear you need? The Fluval Sea Evo V is a great option. This 13.5-gallon glass aquarium comes with a cover, a fully-integrated LED lighting system, a low-voltage transformer, a circulation pump, and a three-stage filtration system that is bound to keep your saltwater fish and corals healthy.

The filter media used in this aquarium can be customized to your needs, though the kit comes with a foam block for mechanical filtration, activated carbon for chemical filtration, and BioMax for biological filtration. This aquarium also has a built-in heater that can be set to a variety of temperatures to accommodate your fish and corals.

The design features are also well-thought-out on this tank, with a sleek, aluminum waterproof casing and a beautiful honeycomb design that camouflages the aquarium filter. Additionally, the easy feed door on the front of the aquarium makes feeding your fish a breeze without detracting from the overall look of the tank. This is a tank that manages to combine functionality and style in a way that few others can.

In spite of its many positives, some experienced fish tank owners report needing to upgrade to a heavier duty filtration system, while others have said that the LED lighting is not powerful enough to support a larger reef tank. However, these complaints are few and far between, and the Fluval Sea Evo V saltwater fish tank aquarium kit is a great option for those looking for an all-in-one reef tank.

PROS

  • Comes with a variety of features and accessories
  • Easy to set up and use
  • Stylish design

CONS

  • Weak filtration system
  • Not powerful enough for some users’ needs

2. GankPike 12 Gallon Saltwater Aquarium (Full Bullnose Shape)

GankPike 12 Gallon Saltwater Aquarium (Full Bullnose Shape)
  • Brand: GankPike
  • Material: Glass
  • Item Dimensions LxWxH: 20.5 x 10.75 x 14 inches
  • Item Weight: 28 Pounds
  • Shape: Bullet Shape
  • Target Species: Fish, Coral, Reef, Sea horse, Marine creature

GankPike has made a name for itself in the aquarium world with its high-quality tanks and accessories, and the 12-gallon GankPike saltwater aquarium is no exception. This complete saltwater aquarium starter kit comes with a variety of features that are sure to make keeping a saltwater tank easy and enjoyable. Many users have praised this aquarium for its crystal-clear glass and sleek design, and it’s easy to see why.

The GankPike 12-gallon saltwater aquarium comes with a full bullnose shape that gives it a clean design, as well as a low-iron glass that makes it virtually free of impurities. The tank also comes with a heavy-duty protein skimmer, adjustable LED lights, heater, LCD digital thermometer, and pump, making it a self-contained unit that has everything you need to get started.

The external protein skimmer is an especially nice touch and helps to keep the water clean and healthy for your fish and corals. When paired with the submersible pump and a good filter, it’s easy to keep the water parameters in check. The LED light is also a nice addition and can be set to a variety of colors and intensities to match your mood or decor.

One downside of this tank is that it does not come with a stand, so you will need to provide your own. Additionally, some users have complained about shipping and handling damage, though this seems to be the exception and not the norm. Overall, the GankPike 12-gallon is an excellent saltwater aquarium kit for those who want to create a unique look while sticking to a reasonable price range.

PROS

  • Comes with a variety of features
  • Sleek design
  • Low-iron glass

CONS

  • No stand included
  • Shipping and handling damage complaints from some users

3. BioCube Coralife Size 32 LED Aquarium & Stand (New Improved Version) Combo

BioCube Coralife Size 32 LED Aquarium & Stand (New Improved Version) Combo
  • Brand: BioCube
  • Color: Clear
  • Material: Glass
  • Item Dimensions: L 21.5″ X W 20.5″ X H 29.5″
  • Shape: Square

The next complete aquarium kit on our list is the BioCube Coralife size 32 LED aquarium and stand combo. This set combines the Coralife Size 32 BioCube aquarium with a BioCube stand that is reinforced with a solid back panel for added stability. The aquarium itself is made of high-quality glass with a silicone seal that is designed to keep the water clean and clear. It also comes with a hood that features vibrant LED lighting for added effect.

Superb construction aside, the BioCube aquarium kit and stand combo is a great choice for all-in-one reef tanks for a variety of reasons. For one, it comes with a powerful 3-stage filtration system that is designed to keep the water clean and healthy for your fish and corals. The LED lighting is also a nice touch and the automatic timer capabilities allow you to customize the lighting schedule to your needs.

A generously-sized tank, the BioCube Coralife size 32 LED aquarium and stand combo is a great choice for those looking for a large all-in-one reef tank. It’s also easy to set up and use, making it a great option for beginners. Though it was designed with reef tanks in mind, it can also be used as a freshwater aquarium kit, though the manufacturer suggests restricting the flow of the utility return pump if you do so.

On the whole, this heavy-duty cabinet is a great option for those looking for an all-in-one reef tank that is easy to use and comes with a host of essential equipment. You may need to look into upgrading the lighting if you decide to house corals in this tank, but that’s a minor issue in the grand scheme of things – especially when you consider the many positives it has to offer.

PROS

  • Comes with a built-in filtration system
  • Vibrant LED lighting
  • Timer capabilities

CONS

  • Lighting may be inadequate for corals

4. GankPike 8-Gallon Curved Corner Glass Saltwater Aquarium

GankPike 8-Gallon Curved Corner Glass Saltwater Aquarium
  • Brand: GankPike
  • Color: Black
  • Material: Glass
  • Item Dimensions LxWxH: 13.8 x 11.8 x 11.8 inches
  • Style: Bent Glass
  • Shape: Double bullnose corner Rectangular

One of the most striking options on our list is the GankPike 8-gallon countertop tank. This great little marine tank features a sleek, modern design that will add a touch of elegance to any room. It’s also made of low-iron glass for enhanced clarity and comes with a built-in thermometer to help you keep an eye on the temperature.

The GankPike 8 gallon glass tank is a great choice for those looking for a stylish all-in-one nano reef tank. It’s also made of high-quality materials and comes with a built-in thermometer to help you keep an eye on the temperature. Additionally, the automatic adjustment light systems feature  3 color modes, a 24-hour integrated timer, and a dimmer that allows for a separate day and night light option.

As far as the aquarium kit is concerned, it comes with a protein skimmer, a heater, an adjustable pump, as well as an LED lamp, and an LCD digital thermometer. It is also equipped with biochemical filter sponges and ceramic rings to help keep the water clean and healthy. Everyone knows that the key to a thriving reef tank is a healthy and balanced ecosystem, and that’s something this basic filtration setup will help you achieve.

All in all, the GankPike 8-gallon all-in-one nano tank is a great option for those looking for something that is stylish and easy to use. It comes with all the bells and whistles you need to get started, and it’s sure to add a touch of elegance to any room. Although some users report issues with the protein skimmer, the majority of customers are happy with their purchase – especially given the reasonable price range.

PROS

  • Sleek, modern design
  • Low-iron glass for enhanced clarity
  • Built-in thermometer
  • Adjustable pump

CONS

  • Some users report issues with the protein skimmer

5. JBJ Nano-Cube All in One Tank, 24 Gallon

JBJ Nano-Cube All in One Tank, 24 Gallon
  • Brand: JBJ
  • Primary Color: Black
  • Line: Nano-Cube
  • Material: Glass
  • Volume: 24 GAL
  • Item Dimensions LxWxH: 18 x 19.6 x 19.7 inches

The last entry on our list is the JBJ Nano-Cube All in One Fish Tank, 24 gallon. This tank is perfect for those looking for a compact and easy-to-use all-in-one reef tank. It’s made of high-quality materials and comes with a built-in 3-stage solid filtration system to help keep the water clean. The modular surface skimmer also helps to remove organic waste and excess food from the surface of the water.

Featuring a basic design with a timeless touch, this tank is sure to add a touch of elegance to any room. Its canopy is fan-cooled, which helps to keep the temperature down and prevents overheating. Meanwhile, the LED light features a moonlight mode, an auto-off timer, and a dimmer that allows for customized lighting, adding to its appeal as a top all-in-one reef tank.

In addition to its aesthetic appeal and superior value, this tank also comes with a 1-year warranty from the manufacturer. This option adds an extra layer of protection in case anything goes wrong with your tank, though it’s worth noting that most users have had no problems with it.

One potential issue with this reef aquarium lies in the strength of its lighting. While it is more than adequate for most reef tanks, some users have found that it’s not quite strong enough for more demanding setups. However, this is a minor complaint compared to the overall value of the tank.

PROS

  • Compact and easy-to-use
  • Made of high-quality materials
  • Built-in 3-stage filtration system
  • Modular surface skimmer

CONS

  • Some users find the lighting too weak for more demanding setups

What’s In An All-In-One Reef Aquarium?

An all-in-one reef aquarium is a tank that comes with everything you need to get started. This includes a tank, filter, light, and even sometimes a heater. All of the components are designed to work together, so you don’t have to worry about compatibility issues. Let’s take a look at some of the more commonly-found components of an all-in-one reef aquarium.

Tank

The tank is the most important part of any aquarium, and the same is true for all-in-one reef tanks. The size and shape of the tank can vary, but it’s usually a good idea to choose one that’s as wide as it is tall. This will give you plenty of space to work with, and it will also make the tank more stable. In general, tanks that are 30 gallons or larger are a good choice for reef tanks.

Filter

The filter is another important part of any reef tank. In an all-in-one aquarium, the filter is often built into the tank itself. This can be a great option if you’re short on space, but it’s important to make sure the filter is powerful enough to handle a reef tank. If it’s not, you may need to supplement it with an external filter. Check out our article on reliable canister filters for saltwater tanks if you need help choosing one.

Lights

aquarium light

Tank lighting is another important consideration, and it’s especially important in a reef tank. Not only does it affect the appearance of the tank, but it also plays an important role in the health of the fish and corals. Most all-in-one reefs come with a basic light fixture – one that’s usually powerful enough to support a small reef tank. Of course, you may want to upgrade to a more powerful light or make your own reef light kit if you plan on keeping a larger reef.

Heater

A heater is not always included in an all-in-one reef tank, but it’s a good idea to have one on hand just in case. If your tank doesn’t come with a heater, be sure to choose one that’s powerful enough to heat a reef tank of your size. You should make sure to get a heater with a built-in thermostat, so you can easily control the temperature of your tank.

Other Components

In addition to the main components listed above, an all-in-one saltwater aquarium kit typically comes with other features and accessories. This can include things like protein skimmers, wave makers, and even water pumps. These extras can be a great addition, but remember that you may need to supplement them with other gear if they’re not powerful enough to support a reef tank.

When Should You Choose An All-In-One Reef Aquarium?

Generally speaking, an all-in-one aquarium kit is seen as a saltwater aquarium starter kit of sorts. So, if you are a beginner and want to set up your saltwater aquarium, this time-saving product is a great option. But even experienced aquarists can benefit from using one of these tanks. They can be a great way to simplify the tank setup process, and they come with most of the aquarium accessories you need already included.

Be that as it may, an actual fish-ready aquarium kit is hard to come by. You will likely need to invest in additional items such as a stand, substrate, live rock, and fish to populate the tank. Even complex reef aquarium kits, while including many of the items needed to get started, will not have every single item you may need. So, if a comprehensive aquarium setup is what you are looking for, then an all-in-one reef aquarium kit might not be the best option for you.

But if you’re looking for a hassle-free, easy to set up, and affordable way to get into saltwater fish keeping, then these kits make great aquarium choices. They usually come with enough accessories to maintain coral growth (though not to support a reef), and keep your water quality up to mark. 

Choosing the Best All-in-One Reef Aquarium

If you’ve given it some thought and decide that an all-in-one reef aquarium kit is right for you, it’s important to choose the right one. Not all kits are created equal, so it’s important to do your research before making a purchase.

Tank Size

First of all, make sure to choose a tank that’s big enough for your needs. If you’re only looking for a basic setup, then an all-in-one starter kit for beginners might suffice. But if you’re planning on keeping a large-capacity reef aquarium, you’ll need to choose larger tanks with more accessories.

A good rule of thumb is to choose a tank that’s at least 20 gallons – this will give you enough room to create a basic reef tank. However, if you’re looking to keep more complex setups with coral and live rock, you’ll need a 50-gallon kit or larger. A 66-gallon tank, for instance, would be a great choice for a more advanced reef aquarium.

Aesthetics

Small fish tank aquarium with colourful snails and fish at home on wooden table.

One of the key advantages of premade aquarium kits is that they give your tank a cohesive look. When you buy an all-in-one reef kit, you know that all the components will match each other – from what color lights to the style of the tank stand. This can be a great advantage if you want a stylish design for your tank, but don’t want to spend hours hunting down different parts that will match.

However, just because a premade kit is designed to look good together doesn’t mean that it will actually look good in your home. For instance, you may dislike having a bright light shining down on your aquarium, or you may not have the space for a large tank. In these cases, it might be better to choose individual components that will better fit your needs and aesthetic preferences.  

Hardware

This probably goes without saying, but the additional equipment that comes with your kit is of utmost importance. These pieces of equipment can make or break your tank, so it’s important to do your research and choose a kit with quality hardware. From the speed settings on your filter pumps to the functionality of your hidden filtration compartment, every detail counts.

If you’re not sure what to look for in a kit, ask other aquarists for their opinions or consult online reviews. For instance, not every aquarium kit with LED lighting is built the same – some have brighter lights that can be too harsh for aquarium inhabitants, while others have weaker lighting that might not be suitable for growing coral. Always read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully – this will give you a good idea of what each piece of equipment is supposed to do and how to properly use it.

Cost

cost switch

One of the key advantages of premade aquarium kits is that they alleviate some of the initial startup costs involved with setting up an aquarium. Generally speaking, purchasing separate items and aquarium accessories will cost you more in the long run. If your financial budget is a key factor in your decision-making process, then it’s definitely worth considering a cost-effective all-in-one reef aquarium kit.

That said, there are a few things to watch out for when it comes to this difference in cost. For instance, some cheaper kits might require you to purchase additional accessories or equipment in order to get started, which will cause you to exceed your budget level. And while it’s true that the current price difference may make a kit seem appealing, you need to think of your financial budget in terms of the entire lifetime of your aquarium.

Reefkeeping Experience

Last but not least, you need to consider your own experience level when choosing the best all-in-one saltwater aquarium kits. Beginner aquarists will probably do best with a basic setup consisting of a filtration chamber, a good filtration system, a tank, and some lights. Meanwhile, advanced aquarists with more aquarium experience will appreciate a more extensive setup with more bells and whistles.

In any case, a little bit of experience goes a long way when it comes to reef keeping. It’s important to start off with an all-in-one saltwater tank that you’re confident you can handle, and then work your way up to a more complex aquarium set-up as you gain more experience. This will help avoid costly mistakes and keep your tank running smoothly.

The Takeaway

When it comes to all-in-one reef tanks, there is a broad spectrum of options to choose from. The best approach is to decide what features are most important to you and then find a tank that meets those requirements. After all, there is no “one size fits all” solution when it comes to reef tanks, so it’s important to find the one that’s right for you.

That being said, we recommend the Fluval Sea Evo V Marine & Reef Aquarium Kit as our top pick for general use. It’s a well-made tank that comes with everything you need to get started, and is versatile enough to accommodate a wide range of tank setups. The Fluval also features an attractive design that will showcase your reef tank in all its glory, so it’s perfect for those who want a high-quality tank without having to do all the work themselves.

We hope you found this detailed guide helpful in highlighting some of the best all-in-one reef tanks on the market. While there are many different options to choose from, we believe that these tanks represent the best of what’s available. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to share them in the comments section below. Thanks for reading!

Wanda is a second-generation aquarist from the sunny tropics of Malaysia. She has been helping her father with his freshwater tanks since she was a toddler, and has fallen in love with the hobby ever since. A perpetual nomad, Wanda does her best to integrate fish-keeping with her lifestyle, and has taken care of fish in three different continents. She loves how it provides a nice break from the hustle and bustle of life.

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