13 Quietest Hob Filter For Your Aquarium In 2024

We know when it comes to taking care of your aquarium, filtration plays an integral part in keeping your tank clean, sparkling, and your fish healthy. Out of many kinds in the market, a hang-on-back filter, also known as a HOB filter, is the most popular type because of its user-friendly and space-saving characteristics. Therefore, you may want to find the quietest hob filter. 

We also realize that one of the biggest problems you may encounter is the loud noise coming from the filter. Knowing your concern, we have included the top 13 quietest hob filter for your aquarium and a buying guide for your future purchases. The great news is this review is beneficial for both beginners and advanced aquarists. 

Now, let’s jump into the reviews and see what we have got for you!

Quietest Hob Filter Comparison 2024

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** Below, you will find our detailed reviews of the Quietest Hob Filter, but you can also click these following links to see current prices or read customer reviews on Amazon.

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Top 13 Quietest Hob Filter Reviews 2024

SeaChem Large Aquarium Fish Tank Filter

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If you want to find a compact hob filter, this could be a perfect option for you!

Tidal Power Filtering is engineered from the bottom up to offer excellent-quality, robust filtration for your tank. 

They are user-friendly and flexible to a wide range of tank environments. There are various features such as a self-loading pump, double water consumption with an external skimmer, customizable flow, maintenance tracking, self-purification impeller, and a filtration basket containing any filtering media type.

Tidal Power Filters are engineered to ensure the maximum possibility for water quality with extra durability and simplicity of use. 

They are suitable for various aquariums, varying from seawater to freshwater, varying in size from 55 gallons to 110 gallons.

The filter will have three years warranty, which can be prolonged to 5 years by signing your filter.

AquaClear Power Filter

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If you want to find a hob filter with a unique design for you to put as much media as possible, this could be a perfect option for you!

Aquarium filtering device that provides wonderful time available with filtration media and high-efficiency pump reduces operational costs. 

Convenient and simple setup, we suggest cleaning the tank filter every two weeks for optimum activities and performance. 

It offers superior mechanical, biological, and chemical filtering.

It also comes with AquaClear foam, charcoal filters and BioMax, and cycle protection for optimal quality of water.

The filtering volume is a maximum of seven times the size of equivalent fish tank filtration. Moreover, it provides you with a life-long warranty, suitable for fish tanks up to 110-gallon in size.

When the water flow decreases, up around 50% of filter water in the chamber is recycled several times. More contaminants are washed out, providing a better reservoir of freshly cleaned, clear blue water.

Marineland Emperor 400 Pro Series Bio-Wheel Power Filter

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If you want to find a sturdy hob filter, this could be the one for you!

Emperor Energy Filter Systems was the most modern tank engineering. With a groundbreaking structure, the Emperor’s stream and filtering efficiency gains are unsurpassed by the other class’s other filtration.

They are comprising as much as double the filtration system’s capability, extra chemical filtration capability, and super-large, spray-driven BIO-Wheel wet or dry biological filtering. 

Emperor Filter systems provide users with a filtration device that can rise to any tank we can think of.

It offers an accredited water flow of 400 Gallons per hour for fish tanks of a maximum of 80 gallons. Also, it provides mechanical, biological, and chemical tank filtration to preserve a safe aquatic ecosystem

Marina Power Filter

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If you want to find a filter for your small aquarium, this could be a perfect option for you!

The unusual lightweight and compact design of the Marina Slim S10 Power Filter offers both aesthetic and functional advantages: it requires less room than normal-sized filtering. It adds a layer of sophistication to your tank.

The filter features a customizable water flow monitor so that you can change the level of flow in your aquarium. 

Its engine is immersed in the water and runs very softly. Setup and begin simple –no self-priming is necessary. Just plugin and then let it all go down! Maintenance is fast, efficient, and straightforward.

The package contains two filtering cartridges: 1 Bio-Carb and 1 Bio-Clear, both of which have Ceramitek, a high porosity ceramic filtering media that maximizes biological filtering for a safe aquatic environment.

Fluval C Series Power Filter

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If you want to find a filter that offers you maximum contact between water and the materials, this could be a perfect option for you!

This filter consists of 5 filtering phases: two mechanical, one chemical, and two biological steps for maximum efficiency. It is fitted with Fluval C4 poly or foam, activated-carbon, C-nodes, and Bio-Screen pads.

An optimized drip chamber packed with C-nodes is where biofiltration is boosted for quick and effective nitrogen removal.

Mechanical filtration is done with a double layer of foam and synthetic fibers and is simply removed for quick cleaning.

The patent combustion grid improves mechanical filtering whenever the water flow decreases.

A handy chemical input basket guides the flow of water to optimize the elimination of toxins.

Retaining just one phase can keep healthy bacteria, contributing to a non-stress climate, thus guaranteeing the aquatic water remains clear. 

The filter clicks on and is suitable for use in fish tanks for more than thirty gallons. It’s the best way to offer your aquarium fresh and pure water.

Penn-Plax Cascade Hang-on Aquarium Filter

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If you want to find a high-quality hang-on filter, this could be a perfect option for you!

Instinctive functionality renders Cascade Power Hang-On Filters a pleasure to be installed. The customizable water flow and the variable intake pipe let you modify the filter to fit your specific demands.

Besides, reusable, dual-sided media cylinders make for simple filtering and maintaining of the tank.

It is built for today’s modern fish tanks; this filter includes three filtration phases that provide purified, sparkling clear water for your tank.

With a stream rate of 300 gallons per hour, this filter is suitable for fish tanks of a maximum of 100 gallons in size.

Besides, they are built for use in marine and fresh water and are respected by aquarists nationwide.

Tetra Whisper Power Filter

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Another hob filter we want to show you is the one from Tetra. 

The Tetra Whisper Power Filter utilizes 3-stage filtering to produce crystal clear, filtered water–The power filter 60 handles fish tanks a maximum of 60 gallons in size.

Super-activated carbon prevents smell and liquid blemishes. Complex double-sided netting filters for litter and wastewater

It incorporates keeping clean technology, decreasing plastic accumulation, and connecting tiny dirt and debris or particles to enable filtering smoother.

You can change cartridges weekly requires robust Tetra Whisper Bio-Bag cartridges. Unfortunately, refills are sold separately.

Marineland Penguin PRO Power Filter

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Another filter we want to show you is the one from Marineland.

Marineland Penguin Pro 450 Power Filter offers quick, three main stages: chemical and biological, and mechanical tank filtration. This super-quiet filtration has a derived engine to minimize vibration so that you can sit back and enjoy your tank.

This power filter incorporates bio-wheel engineering to offer wet or dry biological filtering to develop bacteria nitrification and the rapid elimination of harmful ammonia and nitrate. 

You can also use a Marineland E-size air filter. You only have to filter your 90 gallons fish tank more than five times per hour with flow rate control of a maximum of 450 Gallons per hour.

It is available in six sizes: 100 Gallons per hour, 125 Gallons per hour, 175 Gallons per hour, 275 Gallons per hour, 375 Gallons per hour, and 450 Gallons per hour

Tetra Whisper EX Silent Multi-Stage Power Filter

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If you want a lightweight hob filter, this could be a perfect choice for you!

The Tetra Whisper Power Filter arrives with a filter cartridge protector that holds your hands clean and prevents unnecessary splashes.

This filter made it easy to keep a bright sunny aquarium without tension. With Tetra’s 30-30-30 software and the hand-selected equipment, taking good care of your aquarium is as relaxing as it is watching them.

In contrast to many other filters, the Whisper EX channels water through several floss concentrations to eliminate debris. The carbon within removes odors, blemishes, and contaminants. Bio-Scrubber extracts ammonia and nitrogen, which are poisonous to your water residents.

The Tetra Whisper EX filter is built to transfer the water from your tank continually. The discharge maximizes the oxygen saturation of the water as the engine runs softly. The Tetra Whisper EX filter can be utilized in turtle tanks.

Aqueon QuietFlow LED PRO Aquarium Power Filter

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Another filter we want to show you is the one from Aqueon. 

It comes with the LED cartridge switch indication light that shines when the filter gets clogged with dirt, giving a warning that it’s necessary to change the filter.

It offers chemical, mechanical, biological filtering and extra support with specialized Aqueon filter sheets. 

A significant advantage of the Aqueon QuietFlow filters is the internal pump structure that aims to decrease noise, prevents leakage, and, since it is self-loading, begins instantly after washing or power disruption.

Higher water levels also generate a higher dissolved oxygen concentration for healthy, more energetic fish.

Aqueon QuietFlow LED PRO Aquarium Power Filter

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If you want to find an easy-to-install filter, this could be a perfect option for you!

It comes with chemical, mechanical, biological filtering, and extra support with advanced Aqueon filter sheets.

Self-priming helps to begin instantly after washing or electricity loss—licensed air flow rate guarantees adequate water distribution to enhance fish growth.

LED warning light shines when it is necessary to update blocked cartridges by tracking real water flows. Internal pump architecture helps to reduce vibration and minimize leakage.

It provides you with a lifelong warranty, suitable for fish tanks up to 50 gallons in size.

Marineland Penguin 350 Power Filter

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If you want to find a suitable filter for various aquarium setups, this could be a perfect option for you!

It provides you with a rotating bio-wheel. It is licensed bio-wheel engineering that offers decent wet/dry bio-filtering. 

There is also multi-stage filtering, which introduces mechanical, biological, and chemical tank filtration to maintain a safe marine environment.

It can also use with a Marineland rite-size filtration system. You can see the specific filter for sizing suggestions.  

It is available in 75 Gallons per hour, 100 Gallons per hour, 150 Gallons per hour, 200 Gallons per hour, and 350 Gallons per hour.

EHEIM Liberty 200 Hang On Filter

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Finally, here’s our final product!

It is a simple installation by hanging over the edge of the tank. Moreover, the filter comes full with filter media, so prepared for immediate assistance. New broad filter substrate for strong biofilter performance and prolonged life.

The cellular material cartridge clean of phenol is created for effective elimination of resolved contaminants.

Buying Guide: How To Pick The Quietest Hob Filter For Your Aquarium In 2021

After reading our reviews, we are sure that you still feel confused and overwhelmed because of the availability of many options. You may see that these filters almost look identical to each other, and you will ask yourself why we have to write a long article about the same filters repeatedly. 

We understand your thoughts because, in the past, we were just like you. We also thought that why had to choose among these models if they looked like each other. However, after hours of researching, we finally can see the difference, and today, to share our valuable knowledge, we will show you some factors to choose the quietest hob filter.  

Please note that this is a critical section, so you should note or play some games like a guessing game to help you remember more clearly. It will be beneficial to your future purchase. 

First of all, we think you need to know the hob filter definition since some of you here may not be familiar with this type. 

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What Is A Hob Filter?

For your information, the hob filter will put outside of the tank instead of taking place inside. You will be surprised to see that the filter is usually customizable, and all you have to do is plug the unit on, switch it on, and you are done. 

This filter is by far the most easy-to-maintain and easy-to-use model. We wonder why there are so many people who want to buy this filter. 

Now, you have already known the basic definition of a hob filter; you may ask yourself: “Why do I have to choose this filter type instead of many options out there?”. Therefore, to clarify, we have put some benefits of a hob filter for you. 

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Benefits Of A Hob Filter

Easy Maintainance

We know that perhaps the most challenging task for you is the cleaning part when buying any machine or equipment. Some filters require meticulous maintenance; however, it is not the case for a hob filter. 

The majority of hob filters don’t need much maintenance; all you have to do is clean them regularly, change the filtration media, and that’s it!

However, the models have no cover on the impeller; it will need extra care since the impeller needs infrequent unclogging. 

Easy Access

Since it is put outside of the tank, hangs explicitly on the tank’s back, it is easier for you to access the filter when you need to change its tube or clean it. It may be a little harder for you to access the filter with other types, but it is not a problem with a hob filter. 

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Inexpensive

One of the most foreseeable benefits of a hob filter is that it is affordable. Later, you will probably realize that a hob filter will be less expensive with the same filtration level when researching the other types. Another proof to you is that in our reviews, with only about $30, you can own a hob filter with high-efficiency performance and a good-quality build. 

Quiet

Many hob filters return the water to the tank by a waterfall effect in the old days. This effect has two opinions: some people will love the sound of the water leaking, falling into the tank, they find it quite relaxing. On the other hand, many people think that this noise is annoying and disturbing. 

However, nowadays, most hob filters use a different water slide-in mechanism; therefore, it will keep the noise minimum. That’s why many people said that the hob filter is now quieter, unlike their noisier old models. 

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Various Sizes

When buying any product, we know that a wide variety of sizes will be a factor for some of you to choose. Luckily, unlike other types, a hob filter comes in various sizes for tanks ranging from 5 to 500 gallons. Therefore, you will have more options to choose from and more opportunities to buy the most suitable hob filter for yourself. 

Now, since you know the benefits of a hob filter, you may consider buying this filter. Therefore, we head to the most critical section of this buying guide: Criteria you should consider when purchasing a quieter hob filter.

Aquarium Size

Even when looking for a quiet hob filter, you still need to find the one that fits your aquarium size. The main reason is that it will not have enough power to clean your tank, resulting in many residents’ suffering. 

We want you to remember that it is better to own a quite dynamic filter than a low-power filter. However, a powerful hob filter’s minor disadvantage is that it produces much current to the water, which some fishes dislike. 

Therefore, most hob filters will include information about the tank size they are compatible with it. You should check that information first to find the most appropriate filter for your tank.

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Flow Rate

This is also a crucial factor you need to consider before buying a hob filter. A low flow rate will result in waste building up in the tank. In contrast, a fast flow rate is capable of killing the small marines. Therefore, it is essential to find a suitable flow rate to clean the aquarium effectively and protect the residents. 

The measurement of flow rate is GPH, gallons per hour. According to our research, a hob filter will work best if it moves more than four times compared to your tank size each hour. 

For example, if your tank size is 20 gallons, you need to find a filter that will move at least 80 water gallons each hour. 

In general, the rate is created to ensure that your filtration is working well enough to remove the dirt and particles from your tank. 

Filtration Media

There will be three types of filtration media for you to choose from: mechanical, chemical, or biological, or a combination of these three types.

Many filters are suitable to use these three; however, you can choose and pick the one you should use. Below here, we will tell you the primary function and when to use it.

The Mechanical Filter

For your information, the mechanical filter works in the same manner as the fishnet. It means that water can freely pass the filter, but the fish and other objects will be trapped in the filter. 

The mechanical filter will place inside your filter and trap any unexpected waste that flows into your filter system. The random junk can be fish poop, dead plants, dust, or particles that human eyes cannot see. Once the waste is removed, the filter will return the clean water to the tank.

Therefore, with this type, you need to clean the water regularly to avoid waste build-up that begins to rot, leading to nitrate fasten. 

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The Chemical Filter

Like what it is called, this filter aims to remove the chemical from your aquarium. Many of you may say that your aquarium at home has no harmful chemicals inside to hurt the residents. We also think that like you before; however, we are wrong.

As we have mentioned above, the build-up waste that is not adequately eliminated will lead to nitrate fasten. Moreover, specific waste such as fish poop and uneaten food will also result in ammonia. 

Therefore, this filter will help to save your fish from poisoning to death in its habitat. 

The Biological Filter

This filter’s working mechanism is different from the two remaining types above. This type contains some beneficial bacteria to eat ammonia and nitrite as soon as it produces and converts them to other types. 

The two beneficial bacteria are Nitrifying bacteria and Denitrifying bacteria. The first one will be in charge of eliminating ammonia and nitrite out of the water. The second one is responsible for removing nitrate, which is another form of nitrite. 

In general, these three filter targets bring you the healthiest and freshest environment for your fish. You should choose a suitable filter based on your needs and the compatibility with your hang-on-back filter. 

However, if it is hard for you to choose, then choose all three. As you can see, every type will help you in cleansing and creating the most worthy-to-live environment. The best option is to combine the three kinds for the best results. 

Maintainance

Like much other equipment, the hob filter also needs maintenance. However, the maintenance is relatively simple since you only have to clean it regularly and change the filtration media regularly. 

Therefore, if you are a busy person but still want to build an aquarium-taking-care lifestyle, this filter will surely be the best option for you. 

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Extra Features

These extra features can be beneficial to your aquarium journey and worth considering. 

Customizable Flow Rate

As we have mentioned before, an unsuitable flow rate can both not clean your tank efficiently and kill your fish and other living creatures inside your tank.

Therefore, owning a customizable flow rate will help you adjust the best for your fish and achieve optimal results.

Clogging Signal

Some hob filters include a clogging signal to allow you to know whether your filter is clogged or not. As a result, it will make the maintenance task as easy as a breeze. You don’t need to wonder when your filter will build up with dirt and change it. 

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Self-Loading

Most filter impellers will work when you fill the water inside. However, some filter impellers will work even when you forget to tank up the water. That’s the huge advantage of the self-priming filter. Now you don’t have to fill up the water, and you can still activate the filter. 

Noise

Most hob filters are quiet; the noise you feel uncomfortable with is actually the sound of water splashing back into the tank. 

The simple solution to this problem is to keep the water at a considerable level not to splash into the tank. 

Another cause for the loud noise could be your filter. If you hear that your filter finds it hard to pour the water back to the tank, ensure that you set up the filter correctly and keep your water to a suitable degree. 

Moreover, ensure to clean your filter frequently to prevent the loud noise coming from it. Your filter must be clean and free of dust, particles, or solid waste to work competently and quietly. 

Warranty

When buying any equipment, the warranty is the one you should look for first. The main reason is that it will help you save a large sum of money when a problem occurs. 

With a hob filter, most parts will be durable and can stay for an extended period; however, a warranty is still necessary in case of any broken pieces, even when you just bought them. A manufacturer that provides an extended warranty and reasonable return policy will be the best choice for you. 

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Price

Although we have mentioned that the hob filter is by far the most affordable than other types, the price is still something you concern about it. 

Therefore, you need to set a budget and determine how much money you are willing to put in a hob filter. When your account is selected, you simply need to follow it and find the correct model.

We want you to remember that extending your budget a little bit to find the most high-quality model in your price range is acceptable. We are sure that even when you consider this hob filter as cheap, you still don’t want to waste money another time just to repurchase it when it’s torn apart. 

Therefore, choose wisely and pick yourself the most high-quality and durable hob filter to save your money in the future. 

If you are a first-time buyer, this video could be a great help to you:

Conclusions: Top 5 Quietest Hob Filter In 2021

After reading our reviews and a buying guide, have you felt that buying a hob filter is not a challenging task at all? We are sure that some of you will answer yes if that is the truth, congratulations! We are happy that we contribute a part in helping you find out the quietest hob filter for yourself. 

If the answer is no, it is okay. You still have plenty of time to research more about the hob filter and more criteria you need to consider when choosing a filter. After a few times, you may re-visit this article and understand all the terms in our article. That’s when you will select for yourself a suitable model.

Now, to sum up, we have concluded the top 5 quietest hob filter for you to choose in case of emergency purchase.

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This is the end of our article. Thank you for staying through with us till the end of the article. 

Thank you for reading, and see you in our next reviews!

Good luck with your research! 

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