Best Aquarium Air Pump – Reviews And Buyer’s Guide

Aquarium air pumps are an important part of any fish tank setup. They oxygenate the water and help keep your fish healthy and happy. But with so many different models available, how do you know which one is right for you?

In this article, we’ll take a look at the different types of aquarium air pumps and review some of the best models on the market. We’ll also provide a buyer’s guide to help you choose the best aquarium air pump for your tank.

Comparison Table of The 7 Best Aquarium Air Pump

Types of Air Pumps

There are three main types of aquarium air pumps: diaphragm pumps, piston pumps, and centrifugal pumps.

Diaphragm Pumps

Diaphragm pumps work by drawing air in through one port (often called the intake) and pushing it out through another port (often called the discharge). They are typically small, quiet, and economical, and they can be used to power a wide variety of aquarium devices, including air stones, diffusers, and protein skimmers.

Because they are inexpensive, diaphragm pumps are a popular choice for small aquariums. However, they can be somewhat noisy and may not be suitable for larger tanks. This is because they can’t generate a lot of airflow and tend to lose efficiency at higher volumes.

Centrifugal Pumps

Centrifugal pumps work by using a rotating impeller to draw in air and force it through a narrow tube. This type of pump is the most powerful of the three types and can be used to power even the largest aquarium devices, such as air stones and protein skimmers.

Centrifugal pumps are also the most expensive type of aquarium air pump. They are a good choice for hobbyists who have a very large aquarium and want to use an air pump to power multiple devices such as an air stone and a protein skimmer. We recommend that you avoid using centrifugal pumps in tanks smaller than 55 gallons.

Choosing the Right Air Pump – Buyer’s Guide

Now that you know the different types of aquarium air pumps, how do you choose the right one for your tank? Here are a few things to consider:

Tank Size

The size of your tank is probably the most important factor to consider when choosing an air pump. Tanks that are too big for an air pump can be problematic because the pump will not be able to generate enough airflow to keep the tank healthy. Conversely, tanks that are too small for an air pump may not get enough oxygenation and can suffer from low water quality.

When choosing an air pump, always make sure to choose one that is powerful enough to handle your tank size. A good rule of thumb is to choose a pump with a flow rate of at least 10 gallons per minute for each 100 gallons of tank volume. When in doubt, consult the manufacturer’s specifications to make sure the pump can handle your tank size.

Noise Level

All air pumps produce some degree of noise, but some are louder than others. If you’re using your air pump in a communal area where some noise is tolerable, then any pump will do. However, if you’re using your air pump in a more private area, like your bedroom, or if you’re particularly sensitive to noise, then you’ll want to choose a pump that boasts silent operation – though you should note that even the quietest air pumps will still produce around 60 decibels of noise.

Manufacturers that produce air pumps capable of quiet operation will often include noise-dampening features in their design, such as soft rubber foot pads or with a noise-suppressing baffle chamber. If you’re looking for a quieter air pump, make sure to look for these features. Even something simple, like rubber pads, will go a long way in lowering the noise level of your equipment.

Backup Power Source

Air pumps are vital in maintaining healthy oxygen levels, airflow, and water circulation in a tank, so it is one piece of equipment that needs to be running at all times. If your air pump should ever fail, it can cause serious problems for your tank. Therefore, when choosing a type of air pump, always make sure to select one that has a backup power source, so you have a contingency plan in the event of a power outage. This could be in the form of an AC adapter, a battery pack, or even a solar panel.

Some people may wonder if it’s possible to use an air pump that relies solely on battery power as a primary power source. Unfortunately, powerful pumps or even just a larger air pump would require a lot of battery power. This lack of power makes things like a power cord, power adapter, power outlet, and plug-in air pumps more viable alternatives. Remember – you will still need a backup battery power option!

Appearance 

The aesthetics matter when it comes to your aquarium equipment, and many people like to choose a quality air pump with a user-friendly design and a pleasing finish. Airline tubes and air stones can be unsightly, and if your pump is too big or bulky, it can take up a lot of space in your tank.

Fortunately, there are many pumps on the market that come with sleek and stylish designs that will complement any aquarium. Practical elements such as a double-sided suction cup can keep the pump in place while looking good at the same time. Bubble decorations and LED lights are also popular features on air pumps these days, and they can really add to the visual appeal of your tank.

When choosing an air pump, it’s important to remember that you don’t have to sacrifice performance for aesthetics. You can purchase an excellent device that not only gets the job done, but also looks great doing it.

Price

Finally, when choosing an air pump, consider your budget. Though you should absolutely work within your budget, remember that you get what you pay for. Air pumps that are cheaper usually have fewer features and are less powerful than more expensive pumps. If you have the means to invest in a better-quality pump, it might be worth doing so.

Now that you know what to look for in an air pump, it’s time to start shopping! The following are some of the best air pumps on the market today. Each one has been selected for its quality performance and features.

7 Best Aquarium Air Pumps On The Market

First on our list is an entry-level air pump that is extremely powerful and quiet – two traits you want in an air pump. The Tetra Whisper Air Pump comes in multiple sizes so you can find the perfect one for your tank. If you only require one outlet for a small-to-medium tank, the 10, 20, and 40-gallon pumps will be perfect for you. If you intend to power multiple devices, opt for the 60 and 100-gallon pumps, which both feature dual air outlets so you can use two air stones or two airline tubes at the same time.

With prices starting at under $10, this is truly an affordable air pump. It also doesn’t skimp on thoughtful features such as a patented dome-shaped suspended motor for reduced noise and vibration, as well as rubber feet to further reduce noise. The sound-dampening chambers that come with each model also make this one of the quietest air pumps on the market – a sentiment echoed by many users.

This pump is also very easy to use, with a simple on/off switch and a powerful diaphragm. Unfortunately, some reviewers report that the diaphragm falls apart after several months of use, but it’s easy to find replacement parts if needed. Tetra’s customer service team is also easily reachable via their dedicated hotline, and they are always happy to help.

Overall, the Tetra Whisper Air Pump is a great option for those looking for an affordable and reliable air pump. It’s perfect for small-to-medium tanks, and it features a powerful diaphragm that is quiet and easy to use.

If you’re looking for an affordable air pump that can power everything from a 10 gallon to a 100-gallon tank, the Uniclife Aquarium Air Pump Dual Outlet is a great option. This pump comes with two air outlets, so you can use two airline tubes or two air stones at the same time. This is perfect for the two air stones, airline tubing, check valves, and connectors that this comprehensive set comes equipped with.

Another cool feature about this pump is its quiet operation. At its lowest setting, this pump emits only 25dB of noise, making it one of the quietest on the market. And even at its highest setting, the 45dB noise level is still relatively quiet. Compared to many other pumps on the market, this one is perhaps the quietest aquarium air pump you’ll be able to find – a sentiment that is echoed across the board by its users.

Though this air pump has a maximum flow rate of 64 gallons per hour, the rotary knob allows you to adjust the flow rate according to your needs. Do you have a tiny, 10-gallon tank? Turn the knob to the lowest setting. Have a large, 100-gallon tank? Turn it up to the highest setting. This pump also has a built-in pressure regulator that helps maintain a consistent flow rate, no matter what size your aquarium setup may be.

If you’re looking for a reliable and quiet air pump that can power multiple devices at once, the Uniclife Aquarium Air Pump Dual Outlet is an excellent option. However, some reviewers report that the range of flow rates can be a bit inconsistent. You may need to size up and purchase a larger pump if you intend to use this as a primary air pump for multiple devices.

The Marineland Maxi-Jet, Multi-Use Water Pump, and Power Head is a great all-in-one, adjustable air pump, and powerhead. This pump is perfect for powering filters, protein skimmers, and other aquarium appliances. It also comes with an adjustable flow rate that makes it perfect for both small and large tanks.

Described as “the most fully adaptable pump available,” this air pump model can be used in a variety of ways to power your aquarium appliances. It can be used as a powerhead, utility pump, and circulation pump – all with the turn of a single knob. Whether you need to power a gravel filter or a protein skimmer, this pump can do the trick. Even wavemakers and small fountains can be powered with this pump.

With a price point that falls just under $20, the Marineland Maxi-Jet, Multi-Use Water Pump, and Power Head is a great value for those looking for an all-in-one air pump and powerhead. Sure, it’s a little more costly than a simple diaphragm pump, but if you consider the fact that you’re getting three filters in one, the price is justified. It doesn’t come with all the bells and whistles of some of the more expensive pumps on the market, but it is a great option for those on a budget.

The Marineland Maxi-Jet, Multi-Use Water Pump, and Power Head is a great all-in-one air pump and powerhead. This pump is perfect for powering filters, protein skimmers, and other aquarium appliances. Some reviewers have noted some quality inconsistencies with this pump, but for the most part, it is a reliable option. You can’t go wrong with this pump if you’re looking for an efficient aquarium air pump that is also versatile, this is a safe bet.

This next ones for fish keepers who are looking for backup aquarium air pumps. The Penn Plax Silent Air Battery Powered Air Pump is a great option for those who want a backup air pump that will kick into action automatically to protect their aquarium during power outages. Once this little guy is plugged into an outlet, he’ll monitor your aquarium’s power supply and immediately turn out when it detects a power failure.

Though this backup air pump does not come with a built-in lithium battery (or any kind of internal battery for that matter,) it is ready to use as soon as you add two “D” batteries. This gives it just enough energy to power a 29-gallon tank, but if you have a larger size tank, you simply need to purchase another unit and add it to your setup.

As far as standard air pumps go, the Penn Plax Silent Air Battery Operated Aquarium Air Pump is a pretty quiet option. It’s not the whisper-quiet type, but it’s definitely quieter than most air pumps on the market. Considering the fact that this is a rather powerful air pump with the ability to protect your aquarium against power outages, we think it’s a great buy.

Backup air pumps are pieces of equipment that every hobbyist should have in their aquarium cabinets, and the Penn Plax Silent Air Battery Powered Air Pump is a great option. Though it’s not the most powerful air pump on the market, it is a reliable option that will keep your aquarium running during emergencies.

Much like its closely related cousin, the Tetra Whisper Air Pump for Deep Water Applications is a sturdy, reliable air pump that is perfect for powering aquarium filters and other appliances. Unlike the standard Whisper air pump, this deep water model can be submerged in up to 8 feet of water – making it a great option for those with large tanks or ponds.

With the ability to aerate up to 300 gallons of water, the Tetra Whisper Air Pump for Deep Water Applications is a powerful pump that is perfect for those with large tanks or ponds. Though it’s not the most affordable air pump on the market, it is one of the most powerful, making it a great value for those looking for an air pump that can do it all.

Whether you have a saltwater or freshwater aquarium, the Tetra Whisper Air Pump will make a solid, reliable addition to your setup. Tetra boasts that it is the most powerful air pump they have to offer, and given their long history in the aquarium industry, we think you can trust their claim. Once you get your hands on this pump, you’ll never have to worry about low oxygen levels again.

Big, snazzy filters may be all the rage in the aquarium world, but sometimes, all you need is a basic air pump perfect for a minimalistic setup.  The Pawfly 40 GPH Aquarium Air Pump is just that – a basic, no-frills air pump that will get the job done without all the bells and whistles.

This little guy is perfect for those on a tight budget or those who just don’t need all the extra features of a more expensive air pump. The air pump set only costs $7.99 on Amazon, and it comes with airline tubing and a check valve accessory – both of which are essential for any air pump setup.

Though this filter may be relatively inexpensive, it still boasts the ability to operate at low sound levels. Its rubberized feet keep loud noise at a minimum, and it is UL listed and CSA certified for safety.

As long as you’re not looking for a powerhouse air pump, the Pawfly 40 GPH Aquarium Air Pump is a great option. Some reviewers have noted that the airline tubing included in this set is a bit too short, so you may want to purchase some extra tubing if needed.

Say hello to what is probably the most stylish air pump on the market! The AQQA Aquarium Air Pump is a sleek, stainless steel air pump that will look great in any aquarium cabinet. Not only does it look good, but it also performs well, with the ability to aerate up to 300 gallons of water.

Much like other high-end air pumps on the market, the AQQA Aquarium Air Pump is quiet and energy-efficient. It comes with two air outlets, making it perfect for powering multiple devices at once, and it has a built-in handle for easy transport. At a retail price of close to $40, this pump isn’t going to give you the biggest bang for your buck, but it simply can’t be beaten in the looks department.

Another advantage of this pump is its airflow is easily adjustable via a series of preset buttons on the front of the unit. Whether you’re looking for a slow, gentle breeze or a full-on hurricane, the AQQA Aquarium Air Pump has you covered. The best part? It does all of this without the noise and humming one typically associates with air pumps! The bearingless motor is what helps keep noise levels to a minimum, making this pump perfect for those looking for a low-profile air pump.

Stylish as this pump maybe, some reviewers lament the fact that the pump falls apart after a few months of use. However, it is covered by a one-year warranty, so if this does happen to you, AQQA will be happy to replace your pump free of charge.

The Takeaway

We always like to preface our “best of” lists with the disclaimer that these are only our personal opinions, and that there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to the best pump for your aquarium. With that in mind, we hope you’ve found this guide helpful as you search for the perfect air pump for your tank!

If you’re still not sure which pump is right for you, please feel free to leave us a message in the comments section below. Whether you have a question on a specific pump or are just looking for advice on setting up an air pump for your aquarium, we’d be more than happy to help! And if you’d like to see more articles on other aquarium equipment, please be sure to check out our other articles.

Thanks for reading, and as always, happy fishkeeping!