Canister Filters Vs. Spin-On Filters

Spin-on filters are aquarium filters that are also known as biological filters, spinning wheel filters, bio-wheel filters or power filters. Canister filters tend to always be called canister filters. They both work by pushing aquarium water through filtration material and then back into the tank.

Size

Canister filters are far larger and heavier than a spin-on filter. Canister filters need to be stored underneath or next to the aquarium. Spin-on filters are placed directly onto the side of the tank's top.

Cost

Spin-on filters are far less expensive than canister filters. However, spin-on filters require the use of brand-specific disposable filter cartridges. Canister filters have the capacity to use any filtration media the owner wants and not just a specified cartridge.

Types

Canister filters are recommended for aquariums with live plants or for saltwater aquariums. Spin-on filters are good for freshwater fish tanks without live plants.

References

• "Freshwater Aquariums For Dummies"; Maddy Hargrove and Mic Hargrove; 2006
• The Tropical Tank: Filtration
• The First Fish Tank Guide: Canister Filters
• The First Fish Tank Guide: Power Flters
• Pet Education: Aquarium Filter Functions and Types

Resources

• The First Fish Tank Guide
• Fish Channel
• Fish Geeks