Petsmart Top Fin 5 Gallon Glass Aquarium $49.99 Unboxing Review!

[@AquariumCoop2]

Check out the marine land portrait 5 gallon. I like this tank better. kzbin.info/www/bejne/jpy1mICEod1jraM

[@alexissixela6914]

Kudos to going back to a video that you made almost 2 years ago, to point us to a better product. The Marine land really is better you pea puff dreamers out there...

[@The-Azure-Knight]

Just got one for $30 on sale!

[@TheSt1nkyclam]

@@The-Azure-Knight Where at?

[@The-Azure-Knight]

@@TheSt1nkyclam petsmart.

[@tamaraelza]

I've been looking at this one for a while. Thank you for showing how to hotrod the filter

[@dontreply8346]

I’ve had this tank for over five years. Still runs well.

[@MsDF936]

Are the metal feet removable? They scare me a little.

[@sdmfbastard]

I wish they made this style in 10g. That wouldve been perfect.

[@hankikewoj8863]

Walmart has one for 14$

[@SlenderTroll]

pepSi Not in this style

[@BobSmith-jf6qr]

They do...

[@rj9959]

I just hate how topfin and some other brands will photoshop fish into the pictures of these tiny little tanks and make them look like they fit. At the pet shop I worked at I'd always have people coming to me asking things such as why they can't but four angelfish in a 3.5 gallon tank "because they're in the picture". Whenever I saw someone throwing a tiny fishbowl or

[@DepravedTaka]

The photoshopped fish have always bothered me. I guess they just hire some graphic designer to make these type of images who has no idea about fishkeeping, but as a company they should be promoting animal welfare.

[@annabellanuth5037]

Ron Johnson ikr it’s horrible

[@Dani.J.]

Unfortunately I see that all the time..I found a "tank" on ebay that is usb powered and holds 6 cups of water. The stock photo to sell it has 6 small fish in it..So basically telling people who know nothing about fish that it's fine to have one fish per CUP of fish tank water. The only living thing I wouldn't feel guilty about sticking in that thing is a plant.

[@corrie9762]

Betta Fish should not be in bowls either

[@MrEddieG420]

I have had 4 angels in a 10 gallon for years with no issues only time they fight is when the breeding pair decides to lay eggs .... I also have 40 gallons of filtration running and though and know what I am doing. overstocking is not a bad thing if you have the proper plants and moss and things in the tank that need them waste products and nutrients the fish produce to thrive, as well as ample filtration. its about making a ecosystem that supports itself in the long term.

[@LesterEdwards]

Great aquarium, my son got one for Christmas last year for his betta. It's been a great tank with no issues. I think we got it on sale for $29 last year too. Good deal.

[@miguelramirez3564]

Could y'all make a video of the tank once it's modified, a diy video...

[@DP52001]

"That's how you break that"...for some reason I literally laughed out loud and re-watched that part...love it and thank you!

[@pufferchris8491]

I absolutely love your reviews cory. No holds barred and honesty. I feel like i can trust your opinion. Thank you.

[@AnyfinGoes]

I was so excited to see that you reviewed this tank. I just bought 2 of these this summer. One for a betta and one for cherry shrimp. My local Petsmart had them on sale for $31 each and some change. I use 2 Nicrew lights I already had and put them on timers. The light that came with it was fine, but I'm not good about scheduling myself to turn the light on and off consistently. I took out the filter cartridge and replaced it with sponge in both. The sponge fits a bit more snug against the intake slots and I hope it will keep the shrimp babies in the tank and out of the filter area. Also, I don't have the problem of filter flow with the sponge as you get with the cartridge. I also added some ceramic rings in the compartment for the shrimp tank. All of these tips I learned from various other vids you've done. Thank you for those. For the betta one, I am able to hide a small heater in that same compartment. For $32ish, this little tank is amazing though. I'm thinking about going and getting a 3rd at this price. Is that too many? It might be too many. But a pea puffer would be awesome, right?

[@adalberto.valdez]

I am also going to purchase two, one for a betta and another for some shrimp. Two small tanks for the desk in the home office, trying to get some more tanks😂🙌🏻

[@ethanguidry312]

Can you link the sponge you bought? And is the tank still running strong?

[@monnathecat8400]

I've had mine for little less than a year now and I love it. I made it into a heavily planted Betta tank and my betta loves it. The light is perfect for the plants. I also love how much you can adjust the pump/flow. You can go super slow or super powerful or adjust it for whatever you need. The nozzle (Where the water comes out) can be rotated so you change the flow direction if you don't want it right in the middle of the tank(For betta I highly recommend pointing it to the left). When he was talking about how little water was back in the filter I was shocked. My filter has never done that on any of the adjusted speeds and the water goes through the pads just fine, it's always remained full of water. It is super easy to keep clean and it looks fantastic. I really don't recommend putting anything directly in front of the filter slots because of it does a good job of sucking up the nasties, you don't want anything blocking it.

[@dajamonet]

Hi I just bought this tank and I’m curious to know how you can adjust the flow?

[@happymom9255]

@@dajamonetthe pump that comes with this tank is no longer an adjustable one. Petsmart changed it a couple years ago

[@RIPPER334]

Picked mine up about a year ago on sale for 39.99! An observation tho... sticking a heater in the "sump" area is a bad idea on this set up as it comes out of the box... That pump just doesn't draw enough water... Even after changing the media to a free flow sponge, the water level would drop so low that my heater was exposed, and it fried. It just happened that I had a spare pump (from a decorative desk top water fall thing) that was almost the exact dimensions, but flow rate was at least two or three times stronger... I did a little rearranging and got it crammed in there. Now I can run the stock filter pads... Even tho they clog super fast, my upgraded pump pulls enough water thru to keep the level high enough that my 2nd heater is still alive and kicking. Also, I wrote them (Topfin) an email, and they sent me an extra power cord... For FREE! So my tank is now on a timer in my office. After a little upgrading, and an email, I love my lil tank...

[@Atomicfz20]

RIPPER334 never had a problem with that, Though switch out the cartridge for a sponge and it should be ok ... I have been running one of those flat heaters for over a year.

[@benkepple7432]

Hey just got this tank and have been running it for a few days. I’m planning on adding a Betta and some neon tetras but I don’t know it I’m getting enough Beneficial bacteria to cycle my tank. Should I add bio balls or ceramic bio filter media? And if so where in the filter should I add them to.

[@Jaden_32]

Ben Kepple ceramic and bettas don’t go with tetras. In a tank this size a betta only is your best bet.

[@Aquarimax]

So with an additional cord, you can run the light independently from the filter?

[@WaterBendingMaster07]

ive had this tank for almost 10 months, and i just found out that you can adjust the pump's flow, it has a swivel for that. you just have to take the pump out and adjust the flow.

[@ken1savage]

I love your reviews cory because you're realistic. Keep them coming!

[@stmichale6192]

These little tanks are great. I like how the add the compartment in the back to hide the filtration and heater. It makes for a very clean elegant look. Although they’re small you would think more frequent water changes, and that may be so but it depends on what fish you keep. I’m using it for a single betta and it stays clean for a good while just keep your feedings to once a day or every other day and you’re good 👍🏼

[@ahofftn]

I bought one of these last year for $30. Tossed the included filter, added a piece of Aquaclear filter, a bag with biorings, and a small heater. Does great as my shrimp tank. Water sprite took over, Java Moss and Anubias doing well. Just added an Endler pair. Nice little tank.

[@KiLLjiLL1989]

I had this tank since 2016. I must say that it’s worth it. I can grow med-high plants, but just add an additional light for the higher light plants. Also I am actually surprised that the clipper for the light is still attach. I thought in the beginning that it will break since I am the type to break things easily. One of my advice is to throw that filter cartridge away and just replace it with a poly-fil (polyester fiber). Just fill the bottom of the tank with the poly-Fil and add any type of filter like aqua mesh or even carbon filter yourself. You can totally DIY this filter. The only problem I had with this tank was my very first beta fish managed to jumped out of this tank. So if you’re gonna have any betta fish make sure that you put like an any type of screen lid to cover the gaps of the glass lids. You’ll save yourself from losing your favorite fish. All in all I agree with this video review. 👍🏼 Buy this tank if, it’s pretty good especially for the price.

[@shadeshiest22]

Could you do an update video on this very popular 50dollar tank since its been a year later now?? Would love to see an update video on these tanks and what you guys did with the three or so you purchased... Been thinking about picking one of these up!

[@captainconure713]

I bought this tank a few months ago and I must say that my betta and I love it!! The light is just bright enough to grow my carpet plants and other relatively high light plants, but not too bright that it causes algae growth. The filter hasn’t let me down yet. I just love this tank!

[@mikaelafox6106]

I literally was *that* close to buying one. Thanks for the review!!

[@nocableoj1221]

Your review basically answered 100% of my questions. How is the flow for a betta, pars, filtration, general build quality... Great job!

[@PookySharif]

Just a word of warning for anyone considering this tank- for about 6 months, it was perfect for my Betta. Then he jumped out. There is a small gap around the lid. I didn't think it would be a problem, but it turns out it's *just* wide enough for a Betta to escape through. He didn't make it. I'm still using the aquarium- ended up using some hardware store vinyl trim and electrical tape to fill the gaps, but DO NOT use this for anything that might be a jump risk without replacing or modding the cover.

[@jakefulton8501]

I used it because I don’t know if it’s gonna be a he or she yet

[@ReMz10184]

sorry to hear that... but you should not be filling this tank to the top. leave about an inch to inch and a half of room and put the lid on.

[@suitedzombie9846]

This is starting to worry me now. I've had Bluestar, a beautiful, wonderful female Betta full of personality, for over 3 years now, but this is only the 2nd tank she's lived in with no lid. She's been in there for about a month, but she looks fine. She's never attempted to jump out and always enjoys me coming to see her. She's more like a puppy than a Betta who I think would never try to commit suicide, but she's been our mascot for 4 years, so I'm starting to fear the worst. I've had this tank for about 2 years, but have only just recently fully set it up. Awhile ago, I stupidly stepped on and broke the glass top, so there is no lid. I keep the water level 1" below the rim at all times, but I had a female Betta jump out a tank 3-4" lower than the rim, so obviously 1" is not enough to completely stop them, if they insist in jumping out. She is fairly old, however, and, like I said before, has never tried jumping out. She'll jump for food and eat out of my hand or off of my finger, but doesn't jump unless that's why. I hope she'll be alright in this tank. I couldn't bare to loose the love of my life. Even if she is "just a Fish" I care more for her than any of my "friends". You're just a Human and no more important than any living creature, no matter if they're Fish, Snakes, a Tree, or a Coral. I don't know what I would do without her, or what I will do when she's gone. I can't think about this right now...

[@ReMz10184]

@@suitedzombie9846 You probably do not want to hear this, but you need to be in counseling.

[@timbirch5445]

My beta got stuck behind a heater

[@offtherailsminecart2378]

I liked the second you said, "Next up we have *CRASH*... Breaking stuff."

[@PunchiePaints]

Great review. I bought two Marineland 5 gallon glass portrait tanks for my male bettas. Just a little more money. Things I like about them - they have wrap around seamless glass, only seams are in the back part with the hidden filtration. I modified the filtration - threw out the cartridges and cut a sponge filter in half - each half slipped nicely into slot. And the flow was too strong even after turning it down all the way, so I put a few holes in each uplift tube to slow it down. Light is only good enough for low to medium plants, might replace them at some point. But overall, Love them now

[@mathewmitchell5407]

I’ve got that tanks! put a little flat heater behind the filter wall. that way it’s hidden and it spreads the heat around nicely.

[@ericgeorge76]

A few comments on hacking the setup...regarding a heater in the pump/filter compartment, I was able to fit a 50w Aqueon compact heater inside the compartment as well as a bag of Seachem Matrix. I use an Inkbird thermostat control to control the heat. I also did both a coarse and fine sponge cut to fit to replace the cartridge. I did replace the light which I thought looked too harsh and was always in the way, with a Fluval Nano that swivels to the side. Unfortunately the set screw to mount it to the glass gets in the way of the compartment lid so I wedged a piece of corrugated plastic between the glass and clamp instead so the lid now fits. It is working great and the height fits nicely on the kitchen bar under a wall cabinet. Thanks for all your wisdom Cory.

[@Victoria_Marie]

just got one for $17 yesterday! Can't wait to aquascape it!

[@rp101aquatics6]

What a steal

[@jdbishop8512]

That's a really good deal!

[@BritneyStinson]

How?!

[@electrochara1030]

How?

[@Victoria_Marie]

@@electrochara1030 sorry i missed all these comments idk my store had one on clearance lol

[@TheTurtleGirl]

Cory just sabotaged Jimmy's tank 😱 😂....Can't wait to see the challenge ;)

[@AYMR211_1M]

The Turtle Girl I

[@RogerPryorJR1]

The Turtle Girl vvv

[@Nenimals]

I did a review on this tank as well. I have 2 of them with one betta on each. FYI: I'm not sure if you were aware that you can actually pull out the water pump and adjust the water current and it can actually get pretty strong. GREAT video!

[@DannysAquariums]

Great video again guys! I love the editing! The tank looks awesome!! Can you do a dry goods unboxing? Like what happens when you recieve the big orders etc. Keep up the good work and thumbs up!

[@johntaylorpelletier9349]

The pets mart by me was having a sale all topfin fish tanks were 20$ for all sizes so I got the 5.5 gallon one and you also got 20% off all fake and real plans and even the rocks or sand to cover the bottom so for only 38$ I got a whole new tank set up for my beta fish

[@surepal3985]

That's a great deal

[@brandonezdoofenshmirtz2916]

No heater?

[@MoussiferRex]

I have one of those. The tank survived the flood. The light did not, the pump did...but guess what, since they all plug into the same thing and I can't find that plug....no joy with the pump. I had to get a different pump and light. Ok, now it's set back up with an in tank filter and a MingDak light. It's doing pretty well, all things considered. Before the flood, the tank was heavily planted and only used the light that came with the tank. Everything worked well. My betta and his ghost shrimp buddies did great. I actually really like that little tank for bettas.

[@vickiweaver6289]

So I glad I watched this! Picked mine up for $39.99 and just love it!

[@metooplease9636]

It would be great to see some content from Jimmy on Jimmy of Aquarium Coop...

[@dontreply8346]

I’ve had that tank for four years and it’s all still going strong, with plants and the proper media it’s nearly self-sustaining. Turning the light on and off is nowhere near a chore. I wouldn’t recommend covering the intake filter with a rock or putting loose media in the filter compartment, bag it if you want extra.

[@aquadude6423]

I love your reviews. They’re full of quality content yet at the same time witty humor. “Next up we got...breaking stuff” followed by “that’s how you break that”. great review!

[@JamesCilia73]

I love these reviews, you should definitely do more with other small tanks. I have this tank and absolutely love it haha

[@ILIKEUALOT]

Thank you, I was concerned about the lighting strength. Good video!

[@SytanOfficial]

I've had this tank for over 3 years now, and can honestly say that the light hasn't had any issues

[@madhavvaliyaparambil5481]

Nice video! I've been thinking of getting this tank for a while now, and now I'm confident I will, thanks Cory!

[@villagersparky]

I have something similar, but more expensive, over here in the UK, but I took the filter out completely, and jimmy-rigged a sponge filter and uplift pipe in to it. Does pretty well for my Pea Puffer

[@debbieavila5053]

I have one and want to take the filter out completely also how did you do it?

[@jerrybriggs2352]

We just bought one great looking tank light is very bright pump seems to work pretty well and if you had a Beta heater you could slide it down in the back with the pump to keep everything nice and neat

[@KiLLjiLL1989]

Jerry Briggs I use the same flat heater and it works. Just a friendly advice if you have a betta fish make sure that you put an additional screen lid on top of the glass lid, because the betta will surely jump out. I lost my little blue betta 3 years ago from jumping out that small gap.

[@jerrybriggs2352]

@@KiLLjiLL1989 ok

[@suitedzombie9846]

Yeah, I personally have one myself, and I love it! I got it when someone was giving me their 90 gallon and stand, fully cycled sand substrate, Fluval FX4, giant Python siphon, two little 5 gallon tanks, a medium Mag-Float, Omega One Goldfish Pellets, a whole new bottle of Seachem Prime, a few nets, 6 Fancy Goldfish, tons of decor, and a lot more supplies FOR FREE. They removed the ugly filter from the aquarium, which I like, and I now have a 20 gallon sponge filter and a Tetra Whisper 010 air pump running in it. The light itself has lasted me over 2 years and the tank is still beautiful as ever! Unfortunately, I had broken the glass top when I stupidly stepped on it on the floor, but that doesn't seem to be an issue. It's currently housing Bluestar, a beautiful female Black-Headed Royal Blue & Turquoise Roundtail Betta (who loves to be nosy and hand feed), whome I've had for over 3 years when I rescued her at a Petco where she was the only Betta left on the shelf (because nobody wants a dull female), and the newest recruit, 'Good Sir' the baby Albino Corydoras. I'm also planning to add a few Cherry Red, Blue, or Chocolate Shrimp into the tank as well (suggestions?). She has been in there for probably about a month now, and she's been happier than ever! I eventually decided to add two tiny pieces of Catappa Indian Almond Leaf to add just a touch of tanning into the water. I'm planning to get a large Amazon Sword or Java Fern, a large Marino Moss Ball, and probably some other type of smaller plant, and maybe even a little lava rock with some Java Moss or something attached. Also, she just recently got her very first frozen Bloodworms! She seems to love pretty much everything I give her, no matter if it's a Fish pellet, a Fish flake, a frozen Bloodworm, a piece of raw Shrimp, or a piece of baked Chicken, she seems to love everything! Just a little tip...

[@kaithunder]

Yes 100% agree that I bought this tank and I was soooo disappointed when I found out the light plug was combined with the filter that I could not use my timer for the light. Now I turn it on and off everyday manually🙄 I wish I watched your video before I purchased it! Great review video. Thank you

[@littlemidwestrebornsdolls]

I am a total newbie to the fish world. I did tons of research. Always loved your insight, because you bring it down to a level newbies understand. Bought this tank today. It will be planted. It will hold a betta.

[@travishemming3783]

I actually have been wondering about this exact tank. Surprised and impressed by the PAR for sure. Someone could probably mod in a timer for that light with a little googlin'. It's kinda begging for several modifications, including expanding the filter section a little. But yeah...not too shabby for 50 bucks. Thanks for the review! Much appreciated.

[@DennisEMiller]

I love this tank & snagged it on sale for $35 last year. I found the filtration laking & the light overpowering so I cut the filter wall out, installed a corner Hamburg-Matten filter using the pump provided and bought a simple LED light that provides white & blue with an option for all blue at night. After painting the back & feet black, I have a beautiful tank with excellent filtration & enough light to raise any low - tech plants. My Beta loves it! 😊

[@laurennorthup9874]

Dennis E. Miller how did you cut the gray casing out? My tanks filter broke and I’m getting a different one!

[@belagracie]

I bought this exact model in July of 2018 to keep my betta in. Had no problems with the filter and my plants grew like it was going out of style! I added a small heater, and my ecosystem thrived. Then, in August of 2019, the pump died. Just died. I ordered the smallest pumps I could find (three times) only to never find a small enough replacement. Trying to contact Top Fin or Petsmart was a futile effort. I finally went out and bought an Aquaculture 5 gallon kit from Walmart at $27.95. Came with a Tetra Whisper filter and a rather pitiful 3-LED lid. But with a mod to the Top Fin’s light, we are back in business.

[@PincheMigs]

This was great I was wondering about this tank compared to the fluval spec. Now I have better understanding

[@CrazyCatMan13]

Got a 2.5 for my betta on a bit of a whim and a few Ludwigia stems. It's a bit small and I added a heater and bioballs to the filter so I might upgrade. It's a nice little low maintenance starter tank. Awesome and informative video too! Thanks, guys!

[@cmontano841]

I bought this tank yesterday after watching this video. My tanks filter fills all the way to the top, so I got lucky! Doing a nano planted tank like you recommended. Thank you for all you do

[@JessicaJohnson-ok8uj]

I bought the TopFin brand 55 gallon set which came with the tank, filter, hoods with LED lighting, and a heater for $100! I had bought a tank/stand combo from someone on OfferUp and the lighting ended up being broken along with the bracing of the tank.. I should have looked at it better but it was cheap.. Needless to say I had an emergency situation on my hands because my goldfish desperately needed this bigger tank. The lighting is surprisingly bright and the filter is rated up to 75 gallons. I’m so happy with the way it worked out and I’d definitely recommend it (especially if you can find it on sale like I did)!

[@ReMz10184]

Just got the 2.5 gallon version of this as a single betta tank. I really like it. Clean look and cheap ($39). put in a nice piece of driftwood and planted it. Makes a nice tank on the ledge above my kitchen sink. It really is perfect as a micro planted tank with no rim.

[@xXShadowRejectsXx]

I actually had one of these for a long time that housed my plants. Ended up passing it on to my sister. It had some of the best filtration of any of my other small tanks

[@Eazeguy2012]

Amazing editing, amazing music choice (ps the content is super good too, I think people cares more about the editing now, since the content has always been so cool, it is no news :).)

[@_RayOfLight_]

I just got this tank ( December 2018) paid $60. I think, it’s will be big enough to keep my single Betta 🐟 fish . I added a heater for a little guy to be happy 😊. I will need to found out, where to buy a filters to replace the old one in a while. Thanks for the review, man .

[@jdbishop8512]

I bought my 5 gal tank at Walmart,with a filter I only paid 32 dollars! My Betta is REALLY happy now😁 He has more room to swim.

[@JasonsPlecosCichlids]

I have the same setup. I removed the water pump and bought a bigger one, then I cut a sliver of my matten filter and used that instead, works a lot better, more flow and better filtration. Currently house some guppies and live plants.

[@karentalbot1596]

Where did you get the water pump? Mine quit and I need to purchase a new one!

[@JasonsPlecosCichlids]

@@karentalbot1596 I got one from a local guy and the other on Amazon with my gift cards

[@JasonsPlecosCichlids]

Also its an air pump, which are better and cheaper to run and last longer than water pumps.

[@Jared4850]

I've had one of these systems set up for just over a year now. Never could find a PAR reading for the light, so thank you for that! Definitely changed the filtration day one though

[@smorc65]

I wonder if you could modify the light to accept a timer.

[@mrletterhead13]

I have one of these tanks. I was able to buy a 25 watt submersible heater for it. It fits perfectly in the back corner of the filter compartment, far enough way from the walls and filter motor itself. I was able to run the heater cord out of the same slot that the filter cord comes out of. Been running it for 3 months now with no issues.

[@CannibalCannon]

So I have this tank pretty well planted with, two Dwarf puffers, a Japanese algae eater, an Otto, and 2/3 shrimp,. The filtration for me was an issue at first, I have not really had a problem since I learned that some of the pads are bottom carbon heavy that blocks water intake. To Add to the filtration review if a further review hasn't been done since this review. One thing to be aware of is the pump itself get blockages from small particles. but a simple removal of the pump and a light tapping you can knock the blockage and replug.

[@shesellsfish]

When you put the word out about the sale and using the coupon, I jumped on the last one in my local store. 21 bucks and some change. SUPER FREAKIN' AWESOME DEAL!! Thank you so much Cory. I'm having a blast playing around on paper with different scapes. The only thing I know for sure is it will be planted.

[@christinaalphabet]

Yes. I have one of these for my betta and was curious as to the par output. I knew you'd have the answer. Of course, I chucked that filter pad and added my own sponge and bio media.

[@caitystepleton8938]

I hated the filtration setup on it for temp it works fine but def modify I used sponge and bio rings at first and then completely removed the grey piece and am left with a black wall I now have a sponge filter running in it and its awesome and sleek

[@Thisisnotmyrealname8]

I have this. The filter does suck, but it does a little work. I wish I cut it out before I set it up for that little bit of extra space, but I cut the riser tube to basically nothing, so my pump can push a lot of water, relatively, if I want, but I have it turned down in any case. I have 5 cherry barbs, some ghost shrimp, and lots of "parasite" snails for livestock, and everything seems to be doing fine currently. I have two anubias nana, 12 sagitarria subulata nodes, and three marimo balls (which are going to move out) for plants right now, and black substrate with black granite chunks. I haven't had a tank for a while, but I'm glad to hear about the light. I had some danios in it first, but they got moved to a 10 gallon that I just refurbished, because they are far too territorial in a small space and the glass lid doesn't keep them from jumping out.

[@stephenfitzgerald4590]

The thing that made this so awesome was that over at Steinfot the 3.5 gallon, twenty five dollar version was unboxed. This made for a very good comparison and what a better deal you can get for an additional twenty five dollars.

[@KermitTheFrogman]

So I got this tank in the beginning of the year. My previous tank didn't have an integrated filter and my African Dwarf Frogs were getting sucked into the filter and getting stuck. Got this tank and I havent lost another frog to a filter! The light 😃is super bright and easy to turn on and off. Couldn't really hook it up to a timer because the filter and light are connected to the same power cord, but thats ok. I really like it because its super sturdy and really pretty. My frogs are happy lol

[@angiemcpeek3530]

I've had one for a few months and I have discovered the problem you mentioned about the timer. I'm going on vacation soon and I'm trying to decide if it's better to leave the light on 24/7 or off the whole week I'm gone. It has one Betta in it. I love the tank. My Betta disagrees with your idea of the force of water being gentle enough for him so I put an intake sponge over the "powerhead" and he is satisfied. Lol

[@Sam-kv9vl]

Angie McPeek definitely just leave the light off while gone

[@angiemcpeek3530]

Sam thank you!

[@DomimoD_YG]

I have one of these, have to say the filtration system is horrible but after a little bit of modification is not that bad, if you are going to run it as it is, make sure to keep the filter clean and if the water stops flowing try taking the pump out and unclog it, it gets clogged easily.

[@josephbergen1575]

Hi Yeudy. Would you mind explaining what modification you did to your filtration. I just purchased this tank and was looking for advice. thnks

[@Mr10]

Good review! I have the 2.5 gallon stock with Shrimps. So far its been good. Thanks guys for another good video.

[@rheanonjasmyne]

Well glad I saw this, as I love the way it looks, but that filter and pump and the light in the same plug, is a HUGE NO -NO for me !

[@arabbossmoney433]

Why ? Lol just curious cause i have this one but my pump stoped working but the light still does

[@lto8109]

I bought one of these on sale last year. First thing I did was cut open the filter bag and replaced the media with small plastic bio medio. That increased waterflow a good amount. And I stocked it with shrimp. The shrimp were all up in the filter area. They had no problem getting through the slots. I had to add sponges next to the pump so they wouldn't go through. About eight months later the power block died. It took me a month of back and forth with Petsmart to get it exchanged. Before I get the new one set up I'm going to silicone a mesh screen on the inside of the intake slots. It's not a bad setup but I wouldn't buy it again.

[@anthonyragan2696]

Thanks for doing this review: I've been looking at one of these, but the inability to attach a timer and the filter design make kill the deal for me. You saved me some bucks. :)

[@JackPS9]

I dont like top fin, can't replace with their led hood lights when they die you have to replace the whole hood instead of just the lights.

[@matarese2868]

I think it's a great but, just as long as you switch out the filter cartridge with say a block of sponge cut to fit, and that light ain't half bad

[@amok00]

my pump didn't have the problem of not being full in the reservoir. mine is about an inch from being full!

[@nathanieljohnston9868]

I have one of these that I bought about 2 years ago and it’s a great little tank! Very cool, seamless look. The filter went out and started working again, then went out again. So, I bought a Tetra Whisper hang-on filter and it works just fine. I even put a small heater down inside of the filter box so I can keep the water warm. I also didn’t like the way the filter and light are connected, but the spout is cool where you can adjust the water flow. I’ve had black tetras, ghost tetras, Cory cats, harlequin rasboras, neons, and ghost shrimp (not at the same time of course lol!). The light is good too, except not able to dim or put on a timer. I just took out gravel and put sand so I like the look. I actually used a small cylinder-like preset heater and didn’t have to use a flat one. It fits in the filter housing pretty well. Overall, fun, great tank!

[@fmar.8311]

Did you have problems finding replacement filters of the stock one? I went with the Fluval Spec because I had read online that they don't sell replacements or they're really hard to find.

[@CherokeeMaiden81]

LOL "And that's how you break that." I think I'll have to rewind the few minutes after that comment since I missed it from laughing.

[@jab376101]

I really like that you gave the par for the light! Good job!

[@chribrian]

I have had 1 for about a month with 3 bummblebee gobys. Plants growing well. I don't have the filter issue you have. The water level on mine comes over the filter.

[@shadeshiest22]

So how's this tank a year later with your goby's??

[@walterotiepka1460]

Great vid I got the same tank for 29 dollars on clearance I have carbon rili shrimp and chili rasboras in it it is assert little set up.

[@happymom9255]

Looking for a new home for my betta and found this review - should have known Cory would have done a kickass review! The PAR is impressive at this price for sure. I considered the Portrait as well but in Canada, it’s nearly double the price of the Top Fin and it’s too tall for my kitchen counter.

[@ebarrett3735]

wow, great video. thank you so much. My wife and I were looking at this tank and this video answered all of our questions

[@jakefulton8501]

I’ve been watching 5 gallon tank reviews for awhile now and I think I am going with this one for my betta!

[@TheeDreadPirate]

Hey Jimmy and Corey I would love to see one of your quick 1-2 minute videos on what you would replace the filter pad in this tank with. Thanks love you guys!

[@jillgerber]

We’ve had this tank for a couple of years, picked it up on sale for about $30. It’s been a great tank for us and the two fish that have been residing in it shortly after setting it up (Captain Noodles and First Mate French Fry- that’s what my crazy teen named her fish)

[@davescheer5038]

Just picked one of these up at the goodwill store for $ 5.98 ,it looked like someone set it up and took it down and put it in storage looks almost new , I would say that's a deal ! Hellowooo shrimp tank !

[@aidangarcia9976]

PLLLLLEAAASE do a par test for the nicrew led lights on amazon. Everyone says it's either good or bad but no one has pat measurements on it yet

[@NeonTetraAquarist]

Aidan Garcia I actually have been looking at that too :) I hope it is as good as people say it is.

[@Abercromodel]

I have a nicrew tank for my 10 gallon, and The light reaches my MANY plants, even hard to grow plants. It works wonderfully. my tank is also heavily planted. I recommend it.

[@Abercromodel]

I have a nicrew light for my 10 gallon, and The light reaches my MANY plants, even hard to grow plants. It works wonderfully. my tank is also heavily planted. I recommend it.

[@MrRyanchester]

I have a nicrew led light from amazon for my 20 long tank and it grows my swords and subulata very well. Awesome light!

[@soapsniffer]

I have the Nicrew light on my 2.5 planted tank. It is doing great! My Pogostemon helferi is totally taking off. My dwarf hairgrass is doing well also, not as great as the pogostemon but I've never done well with hairgrass, so this is a definite improvement! Not sure how it would preform on a deeper tank, but for my tiny setup I am very happy with it. I have the Homeber light on a 10 hex, which looks nice, but wasn't bright enough to keep the groundcover plants happy. Definitely liking Nicrew better out of the cheap options.

[@PerAllwin1963]

Thanks for the review. I just bought one and was wondering how to set it up.

[@BrutalRiotGirl01]

I love that you did this, I bought this very tank over a month ago I made vid with some adjustments , I really wanted to know the par this thing put out. My filter doesn't get that low it's filled all the way to the top and the pump actually has an adjustment flow in the pump. It adjust with + and -. I did alterations with mine, so I think your pump might be defective the back if the filter water level is all the way high. I did pour the water in the filter area so it wouldn't disturb the substrate when doing water changes.

[@HomesteadGirls]

I've had 2 of these for 1 1/2 to 2 years, don't exactly remember. I still love them but there's one thing people should know. The filters are awful after a while. One died in 3 months and the other just couldn't keep up with an aging tank. They both have sponge filters now which I prefer anyway. They are still definitely worth the money and I highly recommend them.

[@Carlie_flower]

Have had mine planted and running for years now and I love it. Has served my house hold well. Definitely has been worth the 30 bucks I got it for on sale. Once they go on sale again I'll probably snag another for once we are in a house again and I can have more tanks lol!

[@Carlie_flower]

And for the record the light is awesome lol still going strong and I have run this thing literally every day for at least 8 hours a day for about 3-4 years. Clip has not broken lol not sure how you treat your lights though x) it's fairly sturdy I totally trust it and my live plants do great with it.

[@tamaraelza]

This was my first bettas tank, it's ok. I definitely had to modify the filtration. My little Georgie loves it.

[@auxiliis8366]

How did you modify it?

[@GuineaMatCo]

I have this tank. I think you may have a defective one, my filter is working fine. I had enough room in the gray plastic area to add a tetra glass heater and a small bag on additional bio media. I also modified the pump output line by adding my air tube into it so my water gets oxygenated that way. Super clean setup I don’t have to see anything inside the actual tank.

[@jacksong.alford116]

Thought about getting this tank when I was at petsmart last. Ended up going with a marine land 10 gallon in the end though.

[@wesfishcare]

TopFin, if youre going to copy Fluval, the one thing you should copy is the filtration. The filter on the Spec line is amazing.

[@torrodrigues1017]

cool little kit. I appreciate and respect your opinions and honest reviews. thank you. you mention liking fluval kits. would you pay the extra $30 for the fluval spec V, or just buy this one? mahalo again

[@susangage9140]

See lots of fluval videos glad to see a topping. Thinking about another nano

[@vickymast8485]

I have been running this tank for 4 years and have never had the filter restrict the water? I agree it is a great tank for the $$. Cheers

[@catwomanva]

You can always add in an in-line dimmer/timer. Nicrew makes some nice ones.

[@MommaWendy59]

I've tried to put the Nicrew dimmer timer on it. The light is not compatible.

[@micksmusicchannel]

Great review👍

[@MegaMindyLou]

You’d burn up a heater if you put it in that filter when the water level drops. My sister just gave me one of these for my birthday. Maybe I’ll just Walsted method a planted tank with this one? It’s the perfect size. Thanks for the video.