Which filter is better?

[LosC]

In terms of performance and filtration, which filter would do a better job; Aquamaster 250 or a Top Fin 60? I am setting up a 24g long. The Top Fin 60 is obviously rated for tanks up to 60g and the Aquamaster 250 is 20-70g. The TOp Fin is a bigger filter, double slots, so it will hold more good bacteria. I don't know how much water they pump but I'm guessing the Aquamaster 250 pumps 250gph. Can anyone enlighten me on both? Which would be better?

[ILuvMyGoldBarb]

Well, I'm not familiar with Aquamaster but I do know a bit about TopFin. I personally wouldn't buy a TopFin filter at all. I'd look elsewhere for something like an Aquaclear instead of the TopFin.

[siymdapolio]

Agree with ILMGB here, remember there are beneficial bacteria everywere else too. And I know the 1 of the most important things in filtering is how many gallons an hour it filters, and you want to exceed that by at least 1.5 and 2 times.

[LosC]

The Top Fin filter pumps 300 and the Aquamaster pumps 250, would the Top Fin filter be better? I currently have both filters, I know that the Top Fin is cheap but it does what it's suppose to do.

[jbeining75]

If it pushes more water per hour and filters the same capacity go with the top fin... It is basically the petsmart version of the marineland filters..... You can actually use the biobags and stuff them with biomax and use it entirely as a biological filter. That is what I do with mine...

[cocoa_pleco]

i wouldnt use any HOB that doesnt let you put your own media in, i cant stand pre-made filter cartridges that always have carbon

[jbeining75]

i wouldnt use any HOB that doesnt let you put your own media in, i cant stand pre-made filter cartridges that always have carbon

You can use the biobags they will fit in the topfin. I got one that I picked up in the craigslist deal... I just dump aquaclear biomax in both of those

[LosC]

The biomax media is better, I'll take it out of the aquamaster and put it in a slot of the Top Fin.

[gm72]

I personally wouldn't use either and would instead opt for an Aquaclear 70. I would definitely steer clear of the Top Fin. I have heard multiple bad reports on their hardware.

[LosC]

Only problem I've had so far is the noise although it's not ridiculously loud. The aquamaster is quiet but has a rating of 20-70g's 250gph whereas the Top Fin is rated for 60g aquariums 300gph. The Top Fin filter is double the size, double the filter media, Adjustable water flow and was about 25% cheaper than the Aquamaster. Some pro's for the Aquamaster 250; it also serves as an aerator therefore there is no need for an air pump, quiet, smaller (takes up a small corner) and it can easily be converted to a saltwater skilter by purchasing a small affordable upgrade.

[fins_n_fur]

I don't know much about these filter types that you are asking about, but I have always found that it's better to always buy the best that you can afford. And quiet, efficient, and powerful is good!