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It is tempting to pick a REEFER by its model number and work backwards. A better starting point is the room: where will you view the reef, how much access is there around it, and can you maintain the sump comfortably? Those choices usually narrow the G3+ range faster than a volume comparison.
Start with the format
A classic REEFER is viewed mainly from the front and sits naturally against a wall. A Peninsula is intended for two long viewing faces and works well as a room divider. Its placement needs more thought: leave useful walking and cleaning space around the viewing sides and avoid planning a peninsula as though it were an ordinary wall-mounted tank.
Which model fits the brief?
| Model | Good starting point if… | Plan for… |
|---|---|---|
| REEFER 200 G3+ | You want a compact reef with a straightforward footprint | Careful aquascaping and equipment access in a smaller cabinet |
| REEFER 300 G3+ | You want more display and sump room without moving to a large system | The extra lighting, flow and running costs that come with a bigger reef |
| REEFER 425 G3+ | You want a wider, more open reef layout | More substantial equipment and floor-loading checks |
| Peninsula 350 G3+ | You want two long viewing sides in a compact divider | Access, cable routing and flow across the full display |
| Peninsula 500 G3+ | You have the room for a larger divider and a broader aquascape | Delivery route, filled weight and maintenance access on both sides |
These are planning prompts, not stocking recommendations. Check the manufacturer’s exact external dimensions, system volume and filled weight for the model you select.
Measure the whole installation
Measure the tank and cabinet, not just the glass length. Allow space to remove a skimmer cup, change filtration media, service pumps and open every cabinet door. Check nearby sockets and the route for top-off water. Before ordering, confirm the delivery path through doors, stairs and turns, plus the floor’s suitability for the filled system. Red Sea offers a model comparison tool and an augmented reality room preview, but physical measurements still matter.
Size also changes the controller
On standard G3+ systems, the 200, 300 and Peninsula 350 include ReefControl Lite; the 425, Peninsula 500 and larger models include Pro. Lite supports up to two ReefSense probes or sensors, Pro up to seven. Red Sea specifies Pro with MAX G3+ systems. If future monitoring is important, include that distinction in the whole-system comparison rather than choosing on glass size alone.
Price the complete reef
The standard REEFER is a flexible foundation. A MAX package includes matched lighting, filtration and circulation equipment, but its exact contents vary by model. Budget for salt, RO water production or supply, rock, substrate, test kits and livestock as well as the tank. Our G3 vs G3+ guide explains the generation change. You can compare the current REEFER range, Peninsula range and MAX range as listings are updated.
Sources: Red Sea REEFER G3+, Peninsula G3+ and MAX G3+.
Product specifications can vary by model and package. Check the exact listing and Red Sea documentation before ordering.
