Choosing a new aquarium is one of the most exciting parts of starting or expanding your fishkeeping journey. Whether you’re setting up your very first tropical fish tank, upgrading to a larger planted aquarium, or creating a stunning aquascape, selecting the right aquarium is the foundation for long-term success.
With so many aquarium sizes, styles, and configurations available, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by the choices. Should you buy a nano aquarium or a large display tank? Is a complete aquarium kit better than a custom setup? Do you need a rimless aquarium or a traditional glass tank?
The good news is that finding the perfect freshwater aquarium becomes much easier when you understand your goals, available space, and the needs of the fish you want to keep.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to consider when choosing the ideal freshwater aquarium.
Why Choosing the Right Aquarium Matters
Many beginners focus primarily on fish species, décor, or equipment, but the aquarium itself has a significant impact on:
- Fish health
- Water stability
- Maintenance requirements
- Aquascaping possibilities
- Equipment compatibility
- Long-term enjoyment
Choosing the right tank from the start can save both money and frustration later.
Step 1: Decide What Type of Aquarium You Want
Before choosing a tank, ask yourself:
What Will the Aquarium Be Used For?
Common freshwater aquarium types include:
Community Aquariums
A mix of compatible tropical fish species.
Planted Aquariums
Focused on aquatic plants and natural aesthetics.
Aquascapes
Highly designed layouts featuring rocks, wood, and carefully arranged plants.
Goldfish Aquariums
Designed specifically for fancy or common goldfish.
Cichlid Aquariums
Built around larger, more territorial fish species.
Shrimp Aquariums
Dedicated setups for freshwater shrimp and nano species.
Your livestock choices will influence aquarium size, shape, and equipment requirements.
Step 2: Choose the Right Aquarium Size
One of the biggest mistakes beginners make is buying an aquarium that is too small.
Bigger Is Often Better
Larger aquariums offer:
- Greater water stability
- Easier maintenance
- More stocking options
- Improved aquascaping opportunities
Contrary to popular belief, larger aquariums are often easier to manage than very small tanks.
Nano Aquariums
Typically:
- Under 40 litres
Advantages
- Compact
- Affordable
- Ideal for desktops
Considerations
- Less stable water parameters
- Limited livestock choices
- More frequent maintenance
Best suited to:
- Shrimp
- Bettas
- Nano fish
Medium Aquariums
Typically:
- 60-200 litres
Advantages
- Excellent balance of size and manageability
- Suitable for most community fish
- Good aquascaping potential
Often considered the sweet spot for beginners.
Large Aquariums
Typically:
- 200 litres and above
Advantages
- Exceptional stability
- Greater stocking flexibility
- Impressive visual impact
Considerations
- Higher initial cost
- Larger equipment requirements
Ideal for experienced aquarists and feature displays.
Step 3: Consider Available Space
Before falling in love with a particular aquarium, assess where it will be placed.
Measure Carefully
Consider:
- Width
- Depth
- Height
- Cabinet space
- Access for maintenance
Remember to leave room for:
- Filters
- Lighting
- Pipework
- Water changes
Floor Strength Considerations
Water is heavy.
A fully equipped aquarium can weigh significantly more than many people realise.
For example:
- 100 litres of water weighs approximately 100kg
Always ensure furniture and flooring can support the aquarium safely.
Step 4: Choose the Right Aquarium Shape
Aquariums come in a variety of shapes.
Each offers different advantages.
Standard Rectangular Aquariums
The most popular option.
Benefits
- Excellent swimming space
- Easy equipment installation
- Good aquascaping flexibility
Suitable for almost every freshwater setup.
Rimless Aquariums
Increasingly popular amongst aquascapers.
Benefits
- Modern appearance
- Unobstructed viewing
- Premium aesthetic
Ideal for:
- Planted tanks
- Nature aquariums
- Aquascaping displays
Cube Aquariums
Provide:
- Greater front-to-back depth
- Unique aquascaping opportunities
Popular for:
- Shrimp tanks
- Aquascapes
Long Aquariums
Feature:
- Extended swimming space
- Improved territory formation
Excellent for:
- Schooling fish
- River-style aquascapes
Step 5: Decide Between an Aquarium Kit or Custom Setup
Aquarium Starter Kits
Many manufacturers offer complete aquarium packages.
Typically including:
- Aquarium
- Filter
- Heater
- Lighting
- Lid
Advantages
- Convenient
- Beginner-friendly
- Excellent value
Popular Brands
- Fluval
- Juwel
- Aquael
- OASE
Custom Aquarium Setups
Allow you to choose each component individually.
Advantages
- Greater flexibility
- Premium equipment choices
- Tailored performance
Ideal for:
- Aquascapers
- Experienced hobbyists
- Specialist setups
Step 6: Think About Filtration
Your aquarium choice should accommodate suitable filtration.
Internal Filters
Common in smaller aquariums.
External Filters
Ideal for:
- Larger aquariums
- Planted tanks
- Aquascapes
When choosing an aquarium, consider where filter equipment will be positioned.
Step 7: Consider Lighting Requirements
Different aquarium types have different lighting needs.
Fish-Only Aquariums
Require basic illumination.
Planted Aquariums
Benefit from:
- Full-spectrum lighting
- Adjustable intensity
- Good coverage
Many modern aquarium kits now include LED lighting systems suitable for a wide range of applications.
Step 8: Plan for Heating
Most tropical freshwater aquariums require a heater.
Consider:
- Heater placement
- Wattage requirements
- Cable routing
Some modern filtration systems even offer integrated heating solutions.
Step 9: Consider Future Growth
One of the most common regrets among fishkeepers is outgrowing their aquarium too quickly.
Ask yourself:
Will My Fish Grow?
Many popular species sold as juveniles become much larger.
Examples include:
- Angelfish
- Plecos
- Rainbowfish
Will My Interest Grow?
Many hobbyists start with community fish before progressing to planted aquariums or aquascaping.
Buying slightly larger than your current needs can be a wise investment.
Choosing an Aquarium for Specific Fish
Community Fish
Recommended size:
- 80 litres+
Suitable for:
- Tetras
- Rasboras
- Corydoras
- Gouramis
Bettas
Recommended size:
- 25 litres+
Avoid very small bowls.
Goldfish
Recommended size:
- 100 litres+ for fancy varieties
Larger for common goldfish.
Angelfish
Recommended size:
- 180 litres+
Height is particularly important.
Shrimp
Recommended size:
- 20 litres+
Larger aquariums provide greater stability.
Aquariums for Planted Tanks
If your goal is aquascaping or plant growth, look for:
Good Depth
Provides greater design flexibility.
Clear Glass
Enhances viewing experience.
Strong Lighting Compatibility
Supports healthy plant growth.
External Filtration Compatibility
Keeps the display uncluttered.
Rimless aquariums are particularly popular for planted setups.
Common Aquarium Buying Mistakes
Choosing the Smallest Tank
Small aquariums are often less forgiving.
Buying for Current Fish Only
Consider future stocking plans.
Ignoring Equipment Requirements
Always factor in:
- Filters
- Heaters
- Lighting
- Maintenance access
Prioritising Appearance Over Practicality
A beautiful aquarium still needs to be easy to maintain.
Popular Freshwater Aquarium Brands
Some of the most trusted aquarium manufacturers include:
Fluval
Excellent all-in-one aquarium systems.
Juwel
Known for:
- Quality construction
- Integrated equipment
- Stylish designs
Aquael
Popular for:
- Value
- Innovation
- Modern aesthetics
OASE
Offers premium aquarium and filtration solutions.
Aqua One
Excellent options for beginners and families.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right freshwater aquarium is the first step towards creating a thriving aquatic environment. By considering your livestock, available space, filtration needs, and long-term goals, you can select an aquarium that provides years of enjoyment and success.
Whether you’re setting up a compact shrimp tank, a vibrant tropical community aquarium, or a stunning planted aquascape, investing time in selecting the right aquarium will make every aspect of fishkeeping easier and more rewarding.
At Charterhouse Aquatics, we stock a huge range of freshwater aquariums, aquarium kits, cabinets, filters, lighting systems, and accessories from leading brands including Fluval, Juwel, Aquael, OASE, Aqua One, and more. Our expert team is always available to help you find the perfect aquarium for your needs.
