10 Gallon Aquarium Setups
The best 10 gallon aquarium setups.

A 10 gallon tank is one of the most popular ways that aquarists enter the hobby. Not only is this tank the perfect size for a bedroom or office, it also is a good size to get started on a budget. Within this article we are going to detail some of the best 10 gallon aquarium setups for a variety of tank goals. A 10 gallon system allows for a variety of unique tank landscapes that we will discuss in this piece. We will first make a total setup recommendation for a nano reef and a planted aquarium. We will then discuss a recommendation for a simple saltwater tank setup. Finally, we will conclude this piece by discussing our choice for a versatile budget system. While choosing the aquarium is straightforward, selecting the proper tank accessories can be more challenging. Our customer care team would be happy to assist you with any questions or recommendations you may need.

Summary:

Perfect for the nano reef: Innovative Marine NUVO Fusion 10 Gallon Pro Aquarium

The pick for a planted aquarium: Dennerle 10 Gallon Scapers Tank

The minimalist saltwater choice: Waterbox Cube 10 Starphire Ultra Clear 10 Gallon Aquarium

A budget friendly system: JBJ 10 Gallon Rimless AIO Aquarium

Perfect for the nano reef: Innovative Marine NUVO Fusion 10 Gallon Pro Aquarium

10 Gallon Aquarium Setups
NUVO Fusion Pro 10 Gallon Aquarium

Let’s start our recommendation off with one of our best selling aquariums regardless of size. The NUVO line from Innovative Marine has been on offer for many years and it is one of the best all in one aquariums for any nano reef. The spacious back sump allows for the media you need to keep your piece of the reef clean and in good health. Pairing this tank with some CaribSea LifeRock or, your dry rock of choice will allow you to create the perfect environment for a mixed reef. As far as lighting goes, adding an AI Prime 16 HD to this tank will allow you to program a schedule capable of keeping any coral you desire. The pro models contain the perfect controllable return pump to provide optimal flow for your livestock. Having a feed mode on this pump is also a welcomed addition that helps keep you keep your fish properly fed. Each of the presented details make the Innovative Marine NUVO Pro one of the best 10 gallon aquarium setups for a nano reef.

The pick for a planted aquarium: Dennerle 10 Gallon Scapers Tank

The Dennerle Scapers Tank 10 Gallon Starter Kit comes with everything you need to jump into a beautiful planted aquarium. This kit includes the tank, lighting, filter, substrate, and a CO2 kit for keeping plants happy and healthy. Every aspect of this tank has been optimized for the health and growth potential of live plants. This also is the perfect system to pair with a variety of freshwater shrimp species. At the price of this system, it is an excellent value for those aquarists looking to keep a planted tank. The Shrimp King Active Soil included with this system will allow the roots of your plants to take hold and it will also offer some excellent nutrients for a variety of shrimp species. The soil will also help decrease your PH to make it the perfect level for a standard planted aquarium. Another great feature of this system is the included lid that will prevent any livestock from jumping and it helps retain heat. The combination of these features make the 10 Gallon Scapers Kit from Dennerle our pick as one of the best 10 gallon aquarium setups for a planted tank.

10 Gallon Aquarium Setups
Dennerle 10 Gallon Scapers Tank Kit

The minimalist saltwater choice: Waterbox Cube 10 Starphire Ultra Clear 10 Gallon Aquarium

10 Gallon Aquarium Setups
Waterbox Cube 10 Aquarium

For the most simple glass box perfect for a basic saltwater aquarium, look no further than the Waterbox Cube 10 Starphire Ultra Clear Aquarium. The super clear starfire glass on this aquarium shifts any focus from the tank itself to the livestock displayed within it. This system does feature a good size sump section in the back of the tank with a reliable and durable return pump but, the ultra-clear glass is the true premium feature. The included self leveling mat with this aquarium is also a solid addition to ensure the long term stability of the system. The design within the back sump section features a group of baffles that funnels water through a filter sock that reduces microbubbles in the display. Each of these aquariums will come with all the filtration media needed to get the system started. Simply add your choice of lighting, substrate, rock, and a heater and your tank will be ready to begin the cycling process. Dr. Tim’s One and Only will be the perfect additive to help get your saltwater cycle going. For the features within this aquarium, it is our choice for one of the best 10 gallon aquarium setups for a simple saltwater tank.

A budget friendly system: JBJ 10 Gallon Rimless AIO Aquarium

For those looking to break into the aquarium hobby with a budget friendly all in one tank, look no further than the JBJ 10 Gallon Rimless Aquarium. While this tank is an excellent value, JBJ did not sacrifice quality when designing this tank. Ultra low iron and ultra clear glass walls make the beautiful livestock within the tank pop. Additionally, all filter media for this aquarium is included and will slide easily into JBJ’s newly designed AIO sump section. Another advantage to this aquarium is the one year manufacturer warranty that is included with the purchase. For the most budget friendly of builds, we recommend using dry rock and pairing this tank with an Eheim Jager 100 Watt Heater and a Kessil A80 Tuna Blue if you would like to keep corals. This is a relatively affordable light but, even at its price, it will allow you to keep most coral varieties within the aquarium. For the excellent features packed into this aquarium at the offered price, it is our pick for one of the best 10 gallon aquarium setups on a budget.

10 Gallon Aquarium Setups
JBJ 10 Gallon Rimless Aquarium

Final Thoughts:

We hope this article has given you some inspiration to create your own 10 gallon aquarium system. Whether you are dreaming of an elegant nano reef or a relaxing freshwater shrimp system, a 10 gallon aquarium is one of the most versatile canvases for you to paint your creativity. Let us help you bring your aquarium goals to life in one of our tanks. Our customer care team would be happy to provide any assistance or advice for any aquarium challenge you are facing.