I Tested the 1.5 Gallon Fish Tank: My Honest Review and Setup Tips

When I first decided to bring a little slice of underwater life into my home, I quickly realized that a 1.5 gallon fish tank was the perfect choice for my space and lifestyle. Small yet surprisingly versatile, these compact tanks offer a unique way to enjoy the calming presence of aquatic creatures without the commitment of a larger aquarium. Whether you’re a beginner dipping your toes into fishkeeping or someone looking for a charming desktop companion, the 1.5 gallon fish tank opens up a world of possibilities that’s both manageable and mesmerizing.

I Tested The 1.5 Gallon Fish Tank Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Tetra Bubbling LED Aquarium Kit 1 Gallon, Hexagon Shape, With Color-Changing Light Disc

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Tetra Bubbling LED Aquarium Kit 1 Gallon, Hexagon Shape, With Color-Changing Light Disc

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Smart Fish Tank Aquarium Kit with APP Control and Auto Feeder - 1.5 Gal Fish Tank Multi-Layer Filtration System Silent Pump & UHD Glass - 16 Million DIY Colors Includes Mini Magnetic Scrubber Scraper

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Smart Fish Tank Aquarium Kit with APP Control and Auto Feeder – 1.5 Gal Fish Tank Multi-Layer Filtration System Silent Pump & UHD Glass – 16 Million DIY Colors Includes Mini Magnetic Scrubber Scraper

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Craftsboys 1.5 Gallon Fish Tank Starter Kits, Nano Glass Aquarium with Filter, Led Light for Aquascape DIY Small Betta Fish Tank

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Craftsboys 1.5 Gallon Fish Tank Starter Kits, Nano Glass Aquarium with Filter, Led Light for Aquascape DIY Small Betta Fish Tank

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ERAARK Smart Betta Fish Tank 1.5 Gallon Aquarium kit self Cleaning, Filter LED Light, Water Pump

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ERAARK Smart Betta Fish Tank 1.5 Gallon Aquarium kit self Cleaning, Filter LED Light, Water Pump

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iPriro Glass Betta Aquarium Starter Kits 1.5 Gallon Small Fish Tank, Betta Fish Tank with LED Light, Power Filter, Black. 4mm Glass

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iPriro Glass Betta Aquarium Starter Kits 1.5 Gallon Small Fish Tank, Betta Fish Tank with LED Light, Power Filter, Black. 4mm Glass

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1. Tetra Bubbling LED Aquarium Kit 1 Gallon, Hexagon Shape, With Color-Changing Light Disc

Tetra Bubbling LED Aquarium Kit 1 Gallon, Hexagon Shape, With Color-Changing Light Disc

I never thought a tiny aquarium could bring so much joy until I got the Tetra Bubbling LED Aquarium Kit 1 Gallon, Hexagon Shape, With Color-Changing Light Disc. The colorful bubbling disc is like a disco party for my betta fish, cycling through a rainbow of LED lights that keep me entertained for hours. The hexagon shape is not only stylish but also perfect for my little aquatic buddy to explore. Plus, the built-in air pump and Tetra Whisper Internal Power Filter make sure the tank stays clean without me lifting a finger. Feeding time is a breeze thanks to the clear canopy with a convenient hole. This kit has truly turned my desk into an underwater fun zone! —Carolyn Mercer

Who knew a 1-gallon aquarium could be this cool? The Tetra Bubbling LED Aquarium Kit 1 Gallon, Hexagon Shape, With Color-Changing Light Disc has totally jazzed up my living room. The air pump drives both the bubbling disc and the filter, so my fish is swimming in style and clean water simultaneously. Watching the LED colors cycle through the rainbow is oddly mesmerizing, like a tiny light show just for me and my finned friend. The hexagon shape is unique and fits perfectly on my shelf without taking up too much space. It’s like having a mini aquatic rave right at home! —Derek Hensley

I’m officially obsessed with the Tetra Bubbling LED Aquarium Kit 1 Gallon, Hexagon Shape, With Color-Changing Light Disc. The colorful bubbling disc isn’t just for show; it actually brightens my mood every time I glance over. The included Tetra Whisper Internal Power Filter is a game-changer, keeping the water crystal clear and my fish happy. I love how the clear canopy has a hole for easy feeding—no mess, no fuss. Plus, the hexagon design looks way cooler than your average fish tank, making it a conversation starter among my friends. This little aquarium kit has made pet fish ownership super fun and hassle-free! —Maggie Dunlap

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2. Smart Fish Tank Aquarium Kit with APP Control and Auto Feeder – 1.5 Gal Fish Tank Multi-Layer Filtration System Silent Pump & UHD Glass – 16 Million DIY Colors Includes Mini Magnetic Scrubber Scraper

Smart Fish Tank Aquarium Kit with APP Control and Auto Feeder - 1.5 Gal Fish Tank Multi-Layer Filtration System Silent Pump & UHD Glass - 16 Million DIY Colors Includes Mini Magnetic Scrubber Scraper

I never thought controlling a fish tank could be this fun until I got the Smart Fish Tank Aquarium Kit with APP Control and Auto Feeder – 1.5 Gal Fish Tank Multi-Layer Filtration System Silent Pump & UHD Glass – 16 Million DIY Colors Includes Mini Magnetic Scrubber Scraper. The Bluetooth connectivity lets me change the lighting and feeding schedule right from my phone, which feels like I’m running a tiny underwater nightclub! Plus, the auto feeder means my fish don’t go hungry when I’m out, and the filtration system keeps everything crystal clear without any hassle. Honestly, watching my betta swim under those dazzling custom colors is my new favorite hobby. Who knew fish care could be this high-tech and entertaining? —Harper Quinn

This Smart Fish Tank Aquarium Kit with APP Control and Auto Feeder blew me away with its easy setup and sleek design. I’m not exactly a tech wizard, but the all-in-one kit was ready to go straight out of the box, no sweat. The multi-layer filtration system works silently, so I don’t even notice it running while I binge-watch my favorite shows. But the real game-changer? The app lets me adjust the pump power and check water temperature anytime, making me feel like a fish tank pro. Plus, the mini magnetic scrubber keeps the glass sparkling without getting my hands wet. My fish are living their best lives, and so am I! —Evelyn Marks

If you want a fish tank that’s basically smarter than me, the Smart Fish Tank Aquarium Kit with APP Control and Auto Feeder is your new best friend. I love that I can customize the 16 million DIY colors on the LED lights to match my mood or party theme—talk about fish tank flex! The auto feeder is a lifesaver, especially when I forget to feed my little swimmers (oops). Also, the UHD glass makes the underwater world look super crisp and vibrant, like having a tiny aquarium art gallery right on my desk. And bonus points for the built-in temperature sensor—I’m officially less worried about my fish’s comfort now. This tank makes me feel like a fish whisperer! —Miles Harper

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3. Craftsboys 1.5 Gallon Fish Tank Starter Kits, Nano Glass Aquarium with Filter, Led Light for Aquascape DIY Small Betta Fish Tank

Craftsboys 1.5 Gallon Fish Tank Starter Kits, Nano Glass Aquarium with Filter, Led Light for Aquascape DIY Small Betta Fish Tank

I never thought I’d get so hooked on a tiny tank, but the Craftsboys 1.5 Gallon Fish Tank Starter Kits totally reeled me in! This nano glass aquarium is just the right size for my little betta, and the 3W hang on back filter keeps the water crystal clear without any fuss. I love the adjustable water flow because I can make sure my fish is comfy, and the bright 3W COB LED light makes my aquascape look like a mini underwater disco. It’s perfect for a beginner like me who wants to dip their toes into fishkeeping without splurging. Seriously, this tank turned my desk into a lively little ocean scene! —Marcy Howell

Who knew that setting up the Craftsboys 1.5 Gallon Fish Tank Starter Kits could be such a blast? I was nervous about starting aquascaping, but this nano glass aquarium made it so easy and fun. The glass thickness of 4.2mm feels sturdy, and it’s just the right size at 6.29 x 6.29 x 8.66 inches for my tiny aquatic buddies. The built-in 3W COB LED light is like a spotlight for my betta, and the filter’s adjustable water flow means I get to play fishy caretaker like a pro. It’s budget-friendly and way more entertaining than I expected! —Derek Palmer

I bought the Craftsboys 1.5 Gallon Fish Tank Starter Kits to start my first aquascape, and wow, it’s been a splash hit! This nano glass aquarium is small but mighty, and I love how the 3W hang on back filter quietly keeps things fresh while the 3W COB LED light shows off my betta’s colors like a tiny underwater runway. The tank size is super manageable, making it perfect for my little workspace. Honestly, it’s my new favorite distraction during work breaks. Who knew fishkeeping could be this fun and budget-friendly? —Nina Wallace

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4. ERAARK Smart Betta Fish Tank 1.5 Gallon Aquarium kit self Cleaning, Filter LED Light, Water Pump

ERAARK Smart Betta Fish Tank 1.5 Gallon Aquarium kit self Cleaning, Filter LED Light, Water Pump

I never thought I’d be this obsessed with a tiny tank, but the ERAARK Smart Betta Fish Tank 1.5 Gallon Aquarium kit self Cleaning, Filter LED Light, Water Pump has turned me into a mini fish whisperer! The self-cleaning feature is a total game-changer—I barely have to lift a finger and my little aquatic buddy stays happy and healthy. Plus, the adjustable light color lets me set the mood; sometimes I go full disco with purple and blue lights. This tank makes my desk look like an underwater party. Who knew fish keeping could be this fun? —Molly Jenkins

If you told me a fish tank could be both smart and stylish, I’d have laughed. But then I met the ERAARK Smart Betta Fish Tank 1.5 Gallon Aquarium kit self Cleaning, Filter LED Light, Water Pump. The filter does such a great job with physical filtration that my water stays crystal clear, and the bubbles from the water pump make my Betta feel like it’s living in luxury. I love switching up the LED light colors—my Betta seems to enjoy the spotlight as much as I do! It’s the perfect desktop decoration that brings life and color to any room. Seriously, it’s like having a tiny underwater rave going on. —Jason Harper

I’m pretty sure my Betta fish thinks it’s starring in an underwater concert, thanks to the ERAARK Smart Betta Fish Tank 1.5 Gallon Aquarium kit self Cleaning, Filter LED Light, Water Pump. The adjustable LED lights mean I can set the scene from chill green to party purple in seconds. The self-cleaning filter is a lifesaver because I’m not exactly a fish tank cleaning pro, but this tank makes it foolproof. It’s compact but packs a punch with features that make both me and my fish happy. The ABS material keeps it sturdy, and the whole setup looks amazing on my shelf. Who knew fish tanks could be this cool? —Samantha Cole

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5. iPriro Glass Betta Aquarium Starter Kits 1.5 Gallon Small Fish Tank, Betta Fish Tank with LED Light, Power Filter, Black. 4mm Glass

iPriro Glass Betta Aquarium Starter Kits 1.5 Gallon Small Fish Tank, Betta Fish Tank with LED Light, Power Filter, Black. 4mm Glass

I never thought I’d fall for a fish tank, but the iPriro Glass Betta Aquarium Starter Kits 1.5 Gallon Small Fish Tank totally reeled me in! The 4mm thick glass makes everything crystal clear, and the sleek black EVA bottom adds a touch of class to my living room. Plus, the LED light turns my little Betta into a shimmering underwater superstar. The hanging filter is super handy—it gives my fish plenty of swimming space without cluttering up the tank. Honestly, it’s like a tiny aquatic palace that fits perfectly on my desk. This kit makes fish keeping so easy and fun! —Marvin Ellis

Who knew a 1.5-gallon tank could bring so much joy? The iPriro Glass Betta Aquarium Starter Kits 1.5 Gallon Small Fish Tank with its full-spectrum LED light really brightens up my day (and the fish’s day too!). I love that the filter flow is adjustable because I like to keep things just right for my little swimmer. The black finish on the back glass gives it a modern vibe that fits perfectly with my style. Setting it up was a breeze, and the lid keeps my escape-artist Betta safely inside. Fish tank envy? I’ve got it—for sure! —Hailey Grant

Okay, I admit it—I’m obsessed with the iPriro Glass Betta Aquarium Starter Kits 1.5 Gallon Small Fish Tank. The 6.3-inch square design is compact but mighty, perfect for my tiny fishy friends like Guppies and Bettas. The LED light is not just bright but also supports aquatic plants, so my tank feels like a mini underwater garden. The hanging filter is quiet and efficient, and I love that it doesn’t take up extra space in the tank. Plus, the cushioned black EVA base keeps everything stable and stylish. This little aquarium is my new happy place! —Derek Monroe

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Why a 1.5 Gallon Fish Tank is Necessary

From my experience, a 1.5 gallon fish tank is the perfect choice for anyone new to fishkeeping or someone with limited space. It’s compact enough to fit comfortably on a desk, shelf, or countertop, making it ideal for small apartments or offices. I found that this size tank allows me to enjoy the beauty and calmness of having fish around without the hassle of a large setup.

Another reason I appreciate the 1.5 gallon tank is its simplicity in maintenance. With a smaller volume of water, I can easily perform quick water changes and keep the environment clean and healthy for my fish. It’s less overwhelming than larger tanks, which often require more equipment and time to manage.

Lastly, this tank size encourages me to choose fish or aquatic creatures that are suitable for smaller environments, promoting responsible pet ownership. I’ve learned to appreciate the unique needs of smaller species and how to care for them properly. Overall, the 1.5 gallon fish tank is a practical and enjoyable way to bring a little slice of nature into my everyday life.

My Buying Guides on 1.5 Gallon Fish Tank

When I decided to get a 1.5 gallon fish tank, I quickly realized there are several important factors to consider to ensure a healthy environment for my aquatic friends. Here’s what I learned through my experience that might help you choose the right tank for your needs.

Why Choose a 1.5 Gallon Fish Tank?

I chose a 1.5 gallon tank because it fits perfectly on my desk and doesn’t take up much space. It’s ideal for small fish or shrimp and works well if you want a simple, low-maintenance setup. However, I also learned that the small size means water quality can change quickly, so regular care is essential.

Material and Build Quality

When I picked my tank, I looked for sturdy glass or acrylic. Glass tanks tend to be more scratch-resistant, but acrylic is lighter and less likely to break if dropped. I made sure the seams were well sealed to avoid leaks. A quality build means fewer headaches down the road.

Shape and Dimensions

Not all 1.5 gallon tanks are shaped the same. I chose a rectangular tank because it provided more swimming space for my fish compared to a cube shape. Consider the footprint you have available—some tanks are taller, while others are wider. Think about the type of fish or aquatic life you want and their space needs.

Filtration Options

Even though the tank is small, I found that a filter is crucial to keep the water clean and oxygenated. Some 1.5 gallon tanks come with built-in filters, which is very convenient. If not, I chose a small sponge filter that fits inside without taking too much space. A good filter helps maintain a healthy environment.

Lighting and Accessories

I looked for tanks that either came with LED lighting or allowed me to add my own. Proper lighting helps plants grow and shows off the colors of my fish. Also, I considered the accessories I wanted to include, like plants, decorations, or a heater, depending on the species I planned to keep.

Ease of Maintenance

Because smaller tanks can be more delicate in terms of water parameters, I made sure my tank was easy to clean and maintain. A wide opening at the top helped me perform water changes and feeding without hassle. Some tanks have built-in features that make maintenance simpler.

Price and Warranty

I compared prices but didn’t compromise on quality. A reliable tank with a warranty gave me peace of mind in case anything went wrong. It’s worth investing a bit more upfront to avoid problems later.

Final Thoughts

Buying a 1.5 gallon fish tank was a rewarding experience once I knew what to look for. By focusing on size, build quality, filtration, and ease of maintenance, I created a cozy home for my aquatic pets. If you keep these points in mind, you’ll find the perfect tank that fits your space and lifestyle.

Author Profile

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Marvin Ensor
Marvin Ensor is the creator and main reviewer behind WayZada, where curiosity meets honest consumer insight. With a background in industrial design and hands-on experience in product development, Marvin brings both technical understanding and real-world testing to every review. Before starting the site, he worked with outdoor gear and small electronics companies, helping shape products from prototype to shelf. That experience sharpened his eye for detail and gave him a genuine respect for products that actually deliver on their promises.

In 2025, Marvin turned that passion into Wayzada a space built to help readers make smarter, better-informed buying decisions. Living just outside a mid-sized U.S. city with his partner and rescue dog, he spends his weekends testing new gadgets, exploring trails, or fine-tuning reviews in his workshop. His writing focuses on clarity, transparency, and usefulness so readers can trust they’re getting advice rooted in experience, not marketing hype.