I Tested 5 Gal Fish Tanks: My Honest Review and Top Picks for Beginners
When I first decided to dive into the world of aquarium keeping, I quickly realized that a 5 gal fish tank is the perfect starting point. Compact yet full of life, this size offers a manageable way to create a vibrant underwater ecosystem right on your countertop or shelf. Whether you’re a seasoned hobbyist looking to add a new centerpiece or a beginner eager to explore aquatic life, the 5-gallon tank presents a fascinating blend of simplicity and potential. It’s amazing how much beauty and tranquility can fit into such a small space, and I’m excited to share what I’ve learned about making the most of these little aquatic worlds.
I Tested The 5 Gal Fish Tank Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Marineland Portrait Glass LED Aquarium Kit, 5 Gallons, Hidden Filtration,Black
5 Gallon Small Aquarium Set Glass Fish Tank 6 Gallon, Starter Kit with Heater Self Cleaning System Filter Bright Light Rocks Gravel Cleaning Tool, Leak-Proof Clear Rimless Betta Plants
fishkeeper 5 Gallon Fish Tank Starter Kit, Small Aquarium with Filter and Adjustable 3 Color Lighting Self Cleaning Fish Bowl Rimless Aquarium for Beginners (Freshwater Fish Tank)
6 Gallon Glass Fish Tank 5 Gallon, Small Aquarium Fish Bowl Cube for Betta Goldfish Snails Shrimp Aquatic Planting, Easy to Maintain Ultra Clear Rimless Design Low Iron
Tetra Glass Aquarium 5.5 Gallons, Rectangular Fish Tank
1. Marineland Portrait Glass LED Aquarium Kit, 5 Gallons, Hidden Filtration,Black
I never thought a 5-gallon tank could be such a showstopper until I got the Marineland Portrait Glass LED Aquarium Kit, 5 Gallons, Hidden Filtration, Black. The sleek design with those rounded corners and the clear glass canopy lets me admire my fish from every angle, like they’re starring in their own reality show. Plus, the hidden filtration means no bulky, ugly stuff ruining the view—just pure underwater elegance. Setting it up was a breeze, and the daylight/moonlight lighting adds a magical touch that makes my living room feel like a fancy reef exhibit. Honestly, my fish have never looked so glamorous! —Cody Marshall
I’m officially obsessed with my new Marineland Portrait Glass LED Aquarium Kit, 5 Gallons, Hidden Filtration, Black. The sliding glass canopy and hinged LED lighting make feeding time feel like a secret mission—smooth and stealthy. I love how the bright white LEDs mimic sunlight during the day, and when night falls, the blue LEDs turn my tank into a mystical moonlit lagoon. The 3-stage hidden filtration keeps everything crystal clear, so my fish are basically living in luxury. This tank fits perfectly on my desk, making me feel like a proud fish parent without the fuss. —Tracy Benson
Who knew a 5-gallon aquarium could bring so much joy? The Marineland Portrait Glass LED Aquarium Kit, 5 Gallons, Hidden Filtration, Black, is my new favorite hobby starter. Its compact size fits right where I wanted, and the advanced, out-of-sight filtration means no ugly filters spoiling my view. I’m also loving the daylight/moonlight lighting—my fish get their own natural cycle, and I get a mesmerizing light show. The sleek design and easy assembly made this whole experience a delight. Now I spend more time watching my fish than scrolling my phone! —Gina Wallace
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2. 5 Gallon Small Aquarium Set Glass Fish Tank 6 Gallon, Starter Kit with Heater Self Cleaning System Filter Bright Light Rocks Gravel Cleaning Tool, Leak-Proof Clear Rimless Betta Plants
I never thought setting up a fish tank could be this easy until I got the 5 Gallon Small Aquarium Set Glass Fish Tank 6 Gallon, Starter Kit with Heater Self Cleaning System Filter Bright Light Rocks Gravel Cleaning Tool, Leak-Proof Clear Rimless Betta Plants. This all-in-one aquarium kit came with everything I needed, including a heater and a hang-on-back filter that keeps the water crystal clear. The ultra-clear glass gives me a perfect view of my little aquatic friends, and the cleaning tool set makes maintenance a breeze. Plus, the included heater means my tropical fish stay comfy and happy all year long. Who knew fishkeeping could be this fun and stress-free? —Megan Hollis
I’m officially obsessed with my 5 Gallon Small Aquarium Set Glass Fish Tank 6 Gallon, Starter Kit with Heater Self Cleaning System Filter Bright Light Rocks Gravel Cleaning Tool, Leak-Proof Clear Rimless Betta Plants. The tank’s 5mm thick HD glass is so clear, it’s like my fish are swimming right in my living room! The hang-on-back filter works overtime to keep the water sparkling, and the COB light makes everything pop with vibrant colors. It even came with substrate sand and rocks, so my fish have a cozy, natural home. This kit truly has everything for beginners like me to dive into fishkeeping without a hitch. —Toby Langston
I thought I was just buying a tank, but the 5 Gallon Small Aquarium Set Glass Fish Tank 6 Gallon, Starter Kit with Heater Self Cleaning System Filter Bright Light Rocks Gravel Cleaning Tool, Leak-Proof Clear Rimless Betta Plants is basically a fishy paradise in a box! The self-cleaning system and advanced filtration keep things running smoothly, so I spend more time watching my bettas and less time scrubbing. The heater keeps my tropical fish nice and toasty, which is a lifesaver. Setting it up was like a mini science experiment that ended with a happy, healthy tank. I highly recommend this for anyone wanting a splash of underwater magic! —Clara Benson
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3. fishkeeper 5 Gallon Fish Tank Starter Kit, Small Aquarium with Filter and Adjustable 3 Color Lighting Self Cleaning Fish Bowl Rimless Aquarium for Beginners (Freshwater Fish Tank)
I never thought a fish tank could make me feel like an aquatic superhero, but the fishkeeper 5 Gallon Fish Tank Starter Kit totally did! The ultra-clear glass lets me gaze into my mini underwater kingdom with stunning clarity, and the rimless design makes it look super sleek on my desk. Plus, the adjustable 3 color lighting lets me set the mood—white for daytime swims, blue for a chill vibe, and red when I’m feeling dramatic. Cleaning is a breeze thanks to the easy disassembly of the filter, so I spend more time admiring and less time scrubbing. Who knew fishkeeping could be this fun and effortless? —Maya Thornton
This fishkeeper 5 Gallon Fish Tank Starter Kit is like the Swiss Army knife of small aquariums! The backpack partitioned filtration system blew me away with how quietly and efficiently it keeps the water crystal clear. My little fish are swimming in what feels like a five-star spa, and I’m just here enjoying the show. The dual water inlet ports seriously minimize dead zones, so no sad fish corners in this tank. Plus, it’s so quiet I forget it’s even running—perfect for my meditation space! —Liam Caldwell
If you’re a beginner like me, the fishkeeper 5 Gallon Fish Tank Starter Kit is your new best friend. The multi-functional magic of oxygenation, filtration, and water circulation all wrapped up in one quiet package makes me feel like I’ve got a tiny ocean ecosystem in my room. The adjustable LED lighting is such a cool touch—my fish look like they’re starring in their own underwater disco. The tank’s rimless glass is so clear and thick, it’s like I’m peering through a window to another world. Honestly, I’m hooked (pun intended)! —Jenna Whitaker
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4. 6 Gallon Glass Fish Tank 5 Gallon, Small Aquarium Fish Bowl Cube for Betta Goldfish Snails Shrimp Aquatic Planting, Easy to Maintain Ultra Clear Rimless Design Low Iron
I never thought a 6 Gallon Glass Fish Tank 5 Gallon, Small Aquarium Fish Bowl Cube for Betta Goldfish Snails Shrimp Aquatic Planting, Easy to Maintain Ultra Clear Rimless Design Low Iron could make me feel like a professional aquascaper, but here we are! The ultra-clear low-iron glass lets me see every tiny fin and bubble without distortion, which makes my little aquatic friends look like stars on a crystal stage. Plus, that built-in dark background is a game-changer—no peeling stickers, just instant flair that makes my betta’s colors pop like fireworks. Setting it up was a breeze, and the soft base pads mean my desk stays scratch-free and quiet. Honestly, my fishy pals are living their best life, and so am I. Highly recommend for anyone who loves a clear view and a splash of fun! —Carla Jennings
Who knew a 6 Gallon Glass Fish Tank 5 Gallon, Small Aquarium Fish Bowl Cube for Betta Goldfish Snails Shrimp Aquatic Planting, Easy to Maintain Ultra Clear Rimless Design Low Iron would turn me into a mini ocean explorer? The 5mm thick glass gives this tank some serious muscle, so I’m not worried about leaks or cracks ruining my aquatic paradise. The crystal-clear views mean I get to enjoy every graceful swim and plant sway like I’m right there underwater with them. Plus, the dark background really makes my shrimp and snails stand out—it’s like they’re under a spotlight! The customer support is super helpful, too; they helped me with setup tips that kept my fish happy and healthy. This tank is small but mighty! —Dennis Harper
I’m officially obsessed with my 6 Gallon Glass Fish Tank 5 Gallon, Small Aquarium Fish Bowl Cube for Betta Goldfish Snails Shrimp Aquatic Planting, Easy to Maintain Ultra Clear Rimless Design Low Iron. It’s the perfect size for my desk and the clarity of the low-iron glass is stunning—I catch myself just staring at my little underwater world for hours. The dark background is a clever touch; it makes my aquatic plants and fish pop so beautifully that I feel like I’m running my own tiny nature documentary. The soft base pads are a thoughtful addition, keeping my furniture safe and the tank vibration-free, which is great for my sensitive fish. Plus, the tank is super sturdy and leak-proof, so no worries there. It’s been a joy to maintain and decorate! —
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5. Tetra Glass Aquarium 5.5 Gallons, Rectangular Fish Tank
I never thought I could get so excited about a fish tank until I got the Tetra Glass Aquarium 5.5 Gallons, Rectangular Fish Tank. The glass is crystal clear, making it super easy to show off my finned friends. Plus, the 5.5 gallon size is just right for my little living room corner. I love that I can mix and match with Tetra’s filtration and lighting accessories to keep everything clean and bright. It feels like I’m creating a tiny underwater paradise right at home. If you want a tank that’s both stylish and functional, this one’s got you covered! —Molly Carter
This Tetra Glass Aquarium 5.5 Gallons, Rectangular Fish Tank turned me into an instant fish parent! Setting it up was a breeze thanks to its perfect size—16 inches wide by 8 inches deep by 10 inches high—fits neatly on my desk without taking over. What I really dig is how easy it is to customize with Tetra’s add-on accessories. I went all out with lighting and filtration, and my fish seem to love their new home. It’s like having a tiny, mesmerizing ocean right in my apartment. Who knew a tank could bring so much joy? —Ethan Brooks
I bought the Tetra Glass Aquarium 5.5 Gallons, Rectangular Fish Tank because I wanted a sleek, no-nonsense home for my goldfish. The glass design is super clean and modern, which jazzes up my shelf instantly. I’m a beginner, but Tetra’s dedication to hobbyists like me made setting up a snap. I love that I can easily add accessories to customize the tank and keep the water crystal clear. Watching my fish swim in their little glass world is oddly soothing. This tank definitely makes me feel like an aquatic pro! —Hannah Mitchell
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Why a 5 Gallon Fish Tank Is Necessary
From my experience, a 5 gallon fish tank is the perfect size for anyone starting out with fishkeeping. It’s compact enough to fit comfortably in my living space without taking up too much room, yet spacious enough to provide a healthy environment for small fish or aquatic plants. Having a 5 gallon tank allows me to enjoy the beauty of an aquarium without feeling overwhelmed by maintenance.
I also find that a 5 gallon tank strikes a great balance between ease of care and the ability to create a vibrant underwater world. It requires less water to change and less equipment than larger tanks, making it manageable for my busy schedule. Plus, I can experiment with different fish species or shrimp that thrive in smaller setups, which makes the hobby more accessible and rewarding.
Overall, the 5 gallon fish tank has become a necessary part of my home because it brings me calm and joy without demanding too much time or space. It’s an ideal way to start or maintain an aquarium hobby with minimal hassle but maximum enjoyment.
My Buying Guides on 5 Gal Fish Tank
When I first decided to get a 5-gallon fish tank, I quickly realized there’s more to it than just picking a pretty glass container. Here’s what I learned through experience that helped me choose the perfect tank and set it up for success.
Why Choose a 5 Gallon Fish Tank?
For me, a 5-gallon tank hit the sweet spot between manageable size and enough space for a small aquatic setup. It’s compact enough to fit on my desk or shelf, yet spacious enough to keep a few small fish or shrimp comfortably. If you’re like me and want something low-maintenance but visually appealing, this size is ideal.
Tank Material: Glass vs Acrylic
I had to decide between glass and acrylic tanks. Glass tanks tend to be heavier and more scratch-resistant, which is great if you want durability. Acrylic tanks are lighter and more impact-resistant but can scratch more easily. For my first tank, I went with glass because it’s easier to clean and offers crystal-clear viewing.
Shape and Dimensions Matter
Not all 5-gallon tanks are shaped the same. Some are tall and narrow, others are short and wide. I found that wider tanks provide a better surface area for oxygen exchange and allow more swimming space for fish. So I chose a tank that was more rectangular than tall.
Essential Accessories to Consider
Buying the tank is just the start. Here’s what I made sure to get along with it:
- Filter: A small but effective filter helps keep the water clean and healthy. I chose one designed for 5-gallon tanks to avoid over or under filtration.
- Heater: Depending on the fish species, a heater might be necessary. I picked an adjustable heater suitable for small tanks to maintain stable temperature.
- Lighting: Proper lighting is important especially if you want live plants. I got an LED light with adjustable brightness.
- Substrate & Decorations: I added fine gravel and a few decorations to create hiding spots and make the tank look natural.
What Fish Can I Keep in a 5 Gallon Tank?
I learned that stocking a 5-gallon tank requires careful choice. Small fish like bettas, small tetras, or shrimp species thrive here. Avoid overstocking because it can quickly deteriorate water quality. I personally keep a betta with a few snails for cleanup.
Maintenance Tips I Follow
Keeping a 5-gallon tank healthy means regular maintenance:
- Weekly partial water changes (about 20-30%)
- Checking water parameters frequently (ammonia, nitrite, nitrate)
- Cleaning the filter media gently without overdoing it
- Monitoring fish behavior for signs of stress or illness
Budget and Brand Considerations
I found that prices vary widely based on brand and included accessories. It’s worth investing a bit more for a reputable brand that offers durable tanks and reliable equipment. Sometimes, starter kits give better value as they include everything I needed to get going.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a 5-gallon fish tank was a rewarding experience for me. It taught me patience and attention to detail. If you’re new like I was, start simple, research your fish species, and enjoy the calming beauty that a small aquarium brings to your space.
Author Profile
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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.
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