Seachem Tidal 110 vs Aquaclear 110: There is Only 1 Winner of Our Long Term Test!

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

If you are thinking about purchasing these filters check out the Amazon Affiliate links below! Seachem Tidal 110: amzn.to/3yPDXUt Aquaclear 110: amzn.to/3yP8pxM If you want to see the original unboxing check out this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jKbOnnWtaJ2MqtE Our new shirts can be found at: www.primetimeaquatics.com/merch Want to become a Prime Timer and see behind the scenes fish room videos? Consider becoming a member: kzbin.info/door/YVN7EN0ALL6CE4U7NpMUTAjoin For the latest in the fish room check us out on Instagram primetime_aquatics If you want to see all the cool stuff Joanna does with other types of scapes check out her channel! kzbin.info/door/PEZk1MpOTGiBVh6BtWjlRg

[@Orchids.and.Endlers]

We definitely appreciate your diligence with these 1-year follow-ups! They’re super helpful :)

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Thank you!

[@Oroj1525]

@@PrimeTimeAquatics i agree with this and waiting for the follow up which i am hoping it’s soonish 😊

[@jademoore-jackson2823]

Very valid points and everyone's mileage may vary but after running a SeaChem 75 and an Aquaclear 70 for a year, I would choose the Aquaclear! Reasons: -I found the aquaclears didn't start only when the impeller was extremely gummed up or the water level was down in the tank so low that it back siphoned out of the filter -When cleaning the filters, I found it much easier to get at the impeller of the Aquaclear, granted the SeaChem impeller needed cleaning less frequently due to its design but it was such a pain to clean it -I could throw a pre-intake sponge on the Aquaclear and ensure no fry were going to get sucked in, I couldn't with the seachems due to its water surface skim filter grating -At first the SeaChem filter was quieter with the impeller being in the tank but after a few times taking it apart to clean the impeller, the SeaChem developed a rattle sound that would not go away -I preferred the shape of the filter basket of the Aquaclear, it was easier to cut filter media to fit the rectangular shape versus the curved shape of the seachems and the SeaChem is asymmetrical -The filter basket opens up on the Aquaclear which makes getting the filter sponges out a little easier -It was easier to remove the Aquaclear filter from tanks that are in confined spaces when doing a total filter clean -If the filters are visible, it was easier to see inside the Aquaclear to know when the filter itself needed cleaning or if a fry got sucked in as the plastic is semi-transparent as compared to the black of the SeaChem At the end of the day, I wanted to like the SeaChem more than the Aquaclear but found myself having an easier time keeping the Aquaclear functioning, knowing when it was needing maintenance, and performing it's maintenance But that was just my experience, you might have a different one! :)

[@michaelhaines3451]

Really good point about the pre-filter on the intake.

[@chrispipe7842]

I’ll trade you my Aquaclear for your SeaChem lol. You had very valid points but I found the SeaChem better IMO

[@jimothyj2638]

Is it possible to rubber band a sheet of filter floss over the skimmer?

[@chrispipe7842]

@@jimothyj2638 Sure you can. Also you are able to adjust the intake flow between the skimmer and intake pipe. Unfortunately the only downfall is even if you adjust the intake from the skimmer to low it will still pull a little water in. I have heard of people putting rigid filter material inside the skimmer section of the filter but I personally have never tried it. My filter surface skimmer is set to low and I run a sponge on my intake tube. I have never lost any fish to the skimmer, I may have lost some baby shrimp from time to time but never enough to affect my overall population.

[@george230]

Seachem is the winner by far and when the power goes out seachem starts right back up. I have had over five fluval motors burn up when the power went out over the years. On the seachem there's a 5 year warranty gives peace of mind. fluvals technology is far to old on their hobs. And just not enough features on the fluval as the seachem and is cheaper. I run seachems on over ten tanks. 😊

[@MBBTigger1357]

Thanks!

[@Bill-ht2rc]

I use the Tidal(s) on two bedroom tanks. I adjust the water intake (flow) at 100%. They are absolutely quiet. After over a year of operation I cleaned both impellers just to clean them. No issues to prompt this maintenance. Very easy to do. When adding water after water change I plug the filter back in after reaching the minimum water level mark and it starts cycling immediately.

[@taye2427]

When I first got into this hobby again everyone raved about the AquaClear so I got three of them. None of them worked after a year. I can’t speak to the seacham 110 but the 35,55, and 75 are all amazing!

[@Jeswald1]

I was one of the ones raving about them and purchased bulk intake filters because I have shrimp. Those intake sponges work great when new! Then I found them clogging every week, then multiple times per day. The impellers then get gunked up. I have more to do than break down and scrub filters all the time! Plus I found dead fish and snails getting in them!

[@davcar872]

@@Jeswald1 Your problems with pre filter sponges has nothing to do with the Aqua Clears. You'll have to use those filters on all intakes regardless of type of filter or brand. Just use stainless steel mesh strainer pre-filter tube intake filters. I've used them for years. Never had to clean them. If you have shrimp or are a breeder, then you definitely should not use the Tidals due to the built-in surface skimmer.

[@chrisg.9892]

That was very well thought out.. great assessment.. I have the seachem 110 thanks to you !! We appreciate you being here !! For us !! Thanks Jason!!

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Thank you for being part of the channel!

[@gregwilson5910]

I purchased a tidal 110 after your review, I am extremely happy with it, no noise, easy to clean and self priming. I appreciate the review you did. Sydney Australia 😀

[@wendymcdowell2341]

Thanks, Jason. I have had many Seachem Tidals of various sizes since I started keeping fish again in mid-2020. I like the fact that once you take the white basket out of the filter, you can turn the lid upside down and the basket clicks onto the lid for transport to the sink or wherever you’re going to clean it.😊

[@mcaquatics3143]

I tried both filters out in my fishroom, and after 6 months, I got tired of the aquaclears not restarting after the power would go off, so sold them off and went to all tidals.

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Hope they work well for you!

[@SG-Cichlids]

They start up just fine if you keep your tank full.

[@mcaquatics3143]

@@SG-Cichlids I do keep them full, and still never started up, so out they went. I use mostly air powered filters anyeay

[@SG-Cichlids]

@@mcaquatics3143 maybe we consider filled differently. I have several and because I keep the water level so high in my tanks they never have a problem starting up after a power outage. If I do a water change then yes I have to prime them. A way around that I've found that some may say is wrong is leave them running during a water change and they'll stay full and have no problem starting back up. If the tidal had the space and came with as much sponge as the aqua clear is choose the tidal. Even though the skimmer is a b.s. gimmick.

[@nickbisson8243]

@@SG-Cichlids I cannot stand the skimmer I wish they gave you the option of blocking it completely

[@stevecox8066]

Just bought the Seachem 110 for my new 75. Waiting on the Amazon truck and I'll get it started up. Looking forward to the big media basket! Your reviews made up my mind between these two contenders. Thanks!!

[@charliesleeseman4643]

I had a aquacle clear 110 that ran every day all day for over 15 years. Never failed on me ever. Except of course if there was like a power outage or something. And it would still be working this day but the little tab that screws the motor to the filter housing broke and would no longer seal and it started to leak. But the motor and the impeller everything was original for over 15 years

[@08mario510]

I’ll be honest! I 1st disagreed with you on aquaclear vs tidal. I love the aquaclear and I’ve had many over the years some buying used and working for years. One thing i decided to do was to try the tidal 55 because of you. Weird but since getting the tidal i am now seeing the flaws in aqua clears! Still love them but Tidal has been a power horse for me! You have changed my mind for the good! Haha however i still run a aquaclear 110 one one tank! Love the 1 year update

[@MBBTigger1357]

I had 2 aquaclear 110’s that I gave away when I started my new tank and bought 2 Tidal 110’s. I prefer the Tidal 110’s. I like the large compartment that the filter media and sponge hold. I have a nice size sponge filter along with the Tidals & my tank really stays in tip top condition…along with necessary water changes. Thanks for the review.

[@vampgaia]

I’ve tried both. The Seachem wins. My only issue is floating plants clogging the skimmer.

[@taye2427]

Yes! I pull so much duckweed and water lettuce off of it lol

[@jeremymason8081]

Floating plants don’t go well with this filter

[@jeffhester1443]

Really love these follow up product reviews. Manufacturers should be paying attention also. Great video thank you for sharing with us.

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Some are I think.

[@michaelwigen1360]

I don't have a seachem tidal, but the issue with the aquaclear stopping is that the impeller and shaft need to be cleaned monthly or it will stop after being unplugged or there's a power outage. I clean the impeller and shaft when I clean the filter media once a month. 😉

[@strikeout77777]

If you use a prefilter sponge on the intake, you rarely have to clean the impeller and shaft...

[@michaelwigen1360]

Yea, I do use a prefilter sponge, but it still gets gummed up after a month or so.

[@captainpobtamere3024]

those external filter AQUACLEAR are VERY good and VERY easy to operate and clean... and VERY easy to fill whit anything you love. i really love those, you can qucikly switch them for hospital tank,,,

[@keepamerica2astrong280]

Nice follow up. I have 2 Seachem 110s on my 100 gal acrylic all male cichlid tank for over 2 years now. 900 gals an hour filtration. The best filter ever. Easy to use and easy to clean...

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Glad they are working well for you.

[@michaelhaines3451]

Yep, I have both in my fish room, and I agree with every point you made. When storms came through a couple weeks ago, and power was interrupted many times, the Tidal always came back on, and the Aquaclears came back on about 90 percent of the time. A thousand times "yes" on the price. The Tidals are superior. I still love the Aquaclears, though. Been using them since the mid 1990s. That big brick of a sponge is great, and there's enough space in the tray for me to about double the biological rings (I don't use the carbon). If I needed a filter fast, and had to get it at a big box pet store, I'd buy another Aquaclear and expect it to give me many years of good service. Your observations confirm my own experiences with both.

[@audrameyer9558]

Thank you Jason. I prefer anything that is self priming. Both work great. Aqua clear is nicer looking, but I like the Tidal better. I like the media basket much better in the Tidal. I don't like that the Aqua Clear will stop running for whatever reason and not restart if you don't catch it right away.

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Ya, I agree. The stopping is something I can't accept.

[@rooterdaddy6889]

Whoa! You left out a very significant point about the Seachem - the skimmer. No floating plants with the Seachem because they'll be sucked into the skimmer. Also, because of the skimmer one must keep the water level above the top of the skimmer, or else you are going to get one horrendous gargling choking sound coming out of the Seachem. This can be remedied by decreasing the outflow, but if you want max outflow - forget it. Also, as water evaporates from your tank the gurgling choking sound returns, requiring another decrease in outflow. In general, I found the Seachem a colossal pain in the ass. I'm back to the Aquaclear. Caveat emptor!

[@RobMouritsen]

Thanks for the review, and the comments. I’m considering a third option. Has anyone had experience with the Top Fin Pro 110? (Or any size of that filter)? I love the way the media containers are laid out.

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

I haven’t used that one - just smaller versions and they were fine.

[@danielbarrett6026]

Self priming is a must for me since I experience several power outages per year. I could not depend on the aqua clear for that reason.

[@turtleguy485]

I use the Seachem 110 on one of my tanks and love it. We get a decent amount of power issues in southern california because they like to shut our power off when it gets windy. So its always nice know this filter starts back up on its own. Also, I really like the surface skimmer capturing anything floating around!

[@Matthew_Does_To_Many_Things]

I would honestly take any HOB a with the impeller inside the tank. But if I had to pick between the 2 I would pick the tidal series.

[@tjautocross]

Thanks for providing the long-term review! I have the Seachem in a smaller size and think it’s definitely my favorite hob.

[@TheaaMeehm-yx8yl]

I have 2 of aqua clear 110 since 1990 for $25 each now cost $100 each still working powerful flow like a river like the first day I bought it with all the original for my 200 gallon lions head fancy goldfish but I use API stress zyme once every week 5ml for 10 gallon of water clear everything and change water once every two months with 30% water change feeding three times per day

[@crystalgrammer8256]

Have both as well on the size down for last year and came to the same conclusion. My pick is definitely the Tidal though the Aquaclear is fine.

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Good to hear!

[@johnwood738]

I’ve only got one hang on running on all of my tanks and that’s an Aquclear after it dies it will be replaced with an air driven filter of some type. Interesting video but really love my sponge and box filters. I know you cant polish water with a sponge but fill a box filter with fine filter floss and it does a great job with all the benefits of not sucking up fry and oxygenating the water win win.

[@philcarlino6942]

Agree. I have an AC 110 going in my 75 along with a sponge filter. When the AC quits, I'll just go with two sponges. I just like the air driven filtration better. Far more reliable and I think they do well so long as the tank is stocked right.

[@carlcrasmussen]

Think about this as the sponge slowly clogs more and more all those little holes are getting smaller and smaller till they are fine filtering until you eventually have to clean the filter. Even after cleaning the pores are never as big as when the sponge was brand new

[@aquarialife8418]

I use both in my fish “shed” and I agree. The Tidal is better…. In my experience. Good to know others are experiencing this as well. Power outages do happen- this is when the Tidal helps a ton!!

[@juli8vdberg562]

Tidal 35 is what I ll buy for my 7G tank - a non planted riverscape with Scottish boulders and Mekong sand; given I hope it creates enough surface agitation and ripples; to better enjoy a clear clean water environment as well as water/shadow/light effect - I have an Aquaclear HOBf purchased after having seen your previous video for my 15G tank and it really is an excellent choice and very quiet, runs really well and only thing is surface agitation and to solve that, I use an old mini inside filter with just one sponge on the top to have surface movement which my guppies seem to like the most and Congo fern too as it is growing rather faster now sitting on top of a bonsai inspired design; I hope in future these manufacturers would add a feature to the water flow end section to be adjustable too. Like adding an extra upward fin or lid to have the water flow upwards over the surface and not into the tank

[@James_Hande]

Thanks Jason for the long term review! I'm just a bit confused about everyone claiming that the AquaClear is noisy and doesn't restart. Let me just share my experience with the few that I've been running for years if you don't mind. I keep my water level up to my tanks top trim and whenever we have had power outages the filters always restarted fine. The only time I need to add water in the filter is when I do large water changes which also drains the water out of the filter, at least around the propeller, but that's when I usually remove the filter for cleaning any ways. I just add a bit of water to the filter box while refilling the tank. The only time I heard ANY noise (other than the water flowing back into the tank) is when I didn't properly put the cover back on. I'm not trying to claim it's any better than the Seachem by any means. Just don't understand some peoples issues/problems with the Aquaclear since I've never experienced them.

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

The dropping has been a pretty regular experience for me with the aquaclears. Our tanks are always filled so that isn’t the issue. It’s not horrible, but it can happen.

[@Maggie19701]

Thank you Jason agree with you 100% have both

[@davidaltergottjr7855]

I find myself having to mess with my Aquaclear quite often to get them working right, I prefer the less maintenance with the seachem. I like the marineland emperor pro 450 also, but it's more designed for cartridges, the seachem is easier to put media in etc.

[@3Fahakas1Man]

I have to agree … all valid points and I use both … I have a 125 with 3 tidals and a canister and 5 months no maintenance AT ALL tank still CRYSTAL CLEAR

[@seanboyer1494]

I’ve always used aqua clear 110s as HOB hang on the back refugeeum to grow macro algae and give copepods a safe place to breed

[@andrewmiller3767]

Great review! Love that shirt too! I’m gonna have to finally break down and get one if those are for sale

[@onehitterquitter2130]

Well all 3 of my Tidals are working great. My aqua clear is in pieces at the moment . That's all I need to say.

[@jameschestnut7786]

I have both,the tidal barely sucks up anything. Basically same mechanical as a sponge filter.

[@tulioalopez]

My aquaclear 110 motor went out. Planning to try the Tidal 110.

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

I think you will like it!

[@tulioalopez]

@@PrimeTimeAquatics Thank you

[@cammiluna]

I've had both the Aquaclear 30 and Tidal 35 on my 20 gallon tank. The Tidal 35 is missing some features that the larger ones have like a intake tube and heater clip, but it has a larger filter basket area than the Aqua Clear 30 so more filter media can fit in it. I do find that both of them clog up way too quickly even when the tank isn't overstocked and recommend getting the 55-gallon version of either filter for a 20-gallon tank if your fish are larger than guppies.

[@Whips_World]

My Tidal 110 is so new it's still in the box, but my AquaClear 110 has been running for at least two years maybe three and it has never stopped working. The only time it doesn't is when I do a water change bif enough to break the seal at the tip of the intake and allow all the water to run out. I cant say the same for the two AC50s I have. 1 out of 4 times we lose power, they can't seem to fire back up.

[@tomneeb5474]

One huge difference for me is the longevity of the impeller. My experience with the aqua clears, and I’ve had several, is that the impeller motor spindle, and the impeller motor magnets are constantly wearing out. Costs for replacements is significant. No issues with the tidal so far

[@nabokovfan87]

Amazing pumps. I had an issue once, I couldn't clean it and thought I did. But, I contacted them for the issues, they helped me trouble shoot. I was sent a replacement pretty quickly to get things back up and running. The 75/110 are just great pumps. On the AC side, I've had the 110 fail and so many of the 75s fail that I had 3-4 impellers and shafts on hand just to do a water change and have some peace of mind.

[@nabokovfan87]

@eddiesaviary.com search for aquaclear impeller shaft on KZbin and you'll see a ton of videos on the wear issues.

[@Cauthos]

I have a tidal 35 on my 20 long and a 55 on my 37 and I really want to love them. They do always start back up and I do really like the way the basket pulls out and you can use the lid while moving it around. Also the speed control is really good. Aside from that I don't like the rest. For me the tidals are noisy. I had a top fin filter I replaced with the tidal 75 and the tidal is definitely louder over all. I can't stand the skimmer and I hate the shape of the basket. Oh, and they bypass the media WAY too easily if you put too much in even when i change the floss every week unless I turn the speed way down. Anyways, I do want to like them.

[@plecopotamus]

I'm done with aqua clear. They randomly stop and don't start up after the power goes out. The media basket rides up and leaks. Ive tried tweeking them. Ive tried cleaning the impeller to get it to start again. Time to try something new.

[@tombarnhart9764]

Own both as well and totally agree with your analysis. Seachem is my favorite of the 2.

[@sanfordburran7321]

I’ve only had a aqua clear! But it has always re started when the power comes back on and it has never missed a beat! It is loud now but its about 10 years old and it’s on a salt water tank so it has every right to be loud! It’s been a great filter!

[@theblindfishkeeper]

I am an aqua clear fan all the way. They are tried and true for many many many years. And, I don’t have as many tanks as you guys have, but, if you keep the impellers clean on the aqua clears they tend to start right back up if power goes out. In all of my years of using them, it’s been dirty Impaler‘s that don’t start back up again. Also I hate the oddball shape of the baskets in the title filters, and the stupid skimmer feature in the intake. For my uses there a nonstarter. I’m aqua clear all the way!🐠🦯

[@tekjunkie28]

I got Every filter type and I like them all. I will not buy another Aquaclear though. Simply for the fact that it stops everytime there is a power outage. I ahve also had the AC leak if the filter gets clogged and the basket pushes up at just the right spot.

[@rickzamojski4646]

Great video you provide the most accurate information. Do you recommend fully opening the skimmer on the Tidal for best performance or does it really not matter?

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

I keep it as closed as possible.

[@rickzamojski4646]

Thank you

[@MattsAquatics]

Happy Friday !!!!

[@tmanning4usa]

It does makes a difference in the price since the seachem tidal is Chinese and the aquaclear is made in Italy. That alone makes a big difference but they are both good filters the only problem with the seachem in my opinion is the surface skimmer seems to make some noise sometimes when the water level drops

[@ajw9975]

Another vote for the aquaclear. First, I think the power stoppages and running dry issue hype is a bit overblown. If the power goes out, and AS LONG AS you typically keep the water level in your tank above the level of the motor in the aquaclear, it's impossible for the filter to ever run dry. Second, I used to run a Tidal, but I went back to the Aquaclear. Why? It's actually because of the opposite of your finding. After running the Tidal for a couple of years, I found that enough mulm and algae builds up in the in-tank motor after a month or two that if the power goes out for any reason, the motor won't start up and you have to take the entire filter assembly out of the tank, disassemble the motor and clean it out, then reassemble, put it back into the tank and then it'll work. On the aquaclear, if there's a mulm-induced jam in the motor during a power outage, once the power comes on all I have to do is turn the impeller with a chopstick and all's well again. Plus the "surface skimmer" on the Tidalreally is a gimmick; it simply doesn't pull enough water for it to work. As someone else has mentioned, the skimmer on the Tidal kind of interferes with the functionality of an intake prefilter (if you wanted to put one on). I just find the aquaclear has the best overall design, has no gimmicks, and by far the easiest to maintain and MOD out of all the HOBs out there. I also really wanted to like the Tidal. But in the end, went back to the aquaclear. There's a good reason why the design has remained unchanged for the past 40 years!

[@markhunter2244]

Excellent review / comparison as always, have a super weekend 👍

[@FishRfun]

Yep I ran 2 seachem tidal 110s on my 55g. Great filters!

[@ToddSchweitzer]

I have a Tidal 55. When I got it (used) it was so quiet I had to keep looking at the surface of the water to make sure it was still running. After a year and a half or so it got pretty noisy....like a chainsaw. I ended up getting a new impeller that quieted it some but still pretty noisy. Also the flow control stopped working. I figured out how to reseat it and got it working. I found that by changing me media around a bit that it quieted the noise some. I have it almost quiet but never got it back to completely silent. I do really like it though.

[@92083Barb]

Ive been waiting on this honest review before buying the seachem 110

[@markplace1551]

The sponge and media volume on the aquaclear is like 4 times the size of the tidal. I’m staying aquaclear

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Both filters have way more media capacity than would ever be necessary.

[@migueleespinosa2632]

@@PrimeTimeAquatics please explain regarding more media capacity than ever needed.

[@2ndflooraquatics609]

Recently 2 of my Aquaclear filters (a 30 & 70) just stopped running. I was lucky enough to be right there when both stopped so I was able to get them going right away. Very concerning to me, not sure why they stopped, I'm a stickler for maintenance & neither were too dirty, so I went ahead & ordered new impellers just in case. They are both about 2 yrs old. I run sponge filters also, so I feel a little more at ease in case it happens again, but still is a worry for me.

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Good back up plan!

[@adkgaladkgal1799]

Strange,My Aqua clear 110 has never stopped. I always make sure there is water in it. Never failed. I have had the same one for more than 8yrs.

[@brentlafont5005]

Wish i had your luck i ran aqua clear for years with no trouble but that last two i got only lasted a year before the pump burnt out, maybe because i have sand in the tank now

[@jwcollect8724]

Hey Jason, Good review but I came to a different conclusion. I think the tidal removable basket is a disadvantage, the basket is smaller, getting the basket out is messy and you tend not to remove the whole filter to clean it. The Aquaclear forces you to clean everything. I also found myself replacing the media in the tidal a little more often. For my money I like the Aquaclear. Regards

[@proudamerican4345]

I agree but I disagree to a point, the lid of a tidal was designed so that you can connect the basket to the lid and take it back and forth from the tank creating no spillage. This was not addressed in any of the videos but if you watched other videos on it you would see that the lid clips to the bottom of the basket and it creates almost a little bowl. So what I do is I just pull the basket up, connect to the lid and I have no spillage whatsoever. It's a massive advantage

[@carlcrasmussen]

I've always had a large dedicated Bowl for when I pull my filter media out regardless of the brand of filter

[@billdidesch905]

I'm curious why you felt the need to have additional sponge filters with these? Do you feel they're not capable of doing a good enough job of biological filtration?

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Only because the tanks are very heavily stocked. The biological filtration is more than sufficient.

[@Awakendabeast13]

Great vids i just bought a 55 gallon should i purchase the aquaclear 70 or the 110? is bigger better?

[@johnjwedrall4290]

Thank you for this helpful filter information 👍👍🙂

[@CascadianExotics]

Because I am terrible at maintenance with HOBs (kinda forget to give them a thorough clean for months on end), I've been through my share of them. The Tidal held up better to that level of abuse far better than most anything else I've had, including an AquaClear. While, my most recent Tidal just took a dump on me after 18 months, I have a Top Fin Pro 70 that was set up around the same time, been maintained the same as the Tidal, and is still kicking (and definitely overdue for another cleaning). So, between the AquaClear and Tidal, I'd choose a Tidal all day long. However, with this style of HOB, I'd take a Top Fin Pro over either.

[@lyrieth8833]

I am over mechanical filters had 3 different types over the last year and they didn't have that hard of a job but died overnight each time!! I am back to sponge filters.

[@brianp6180]

I have both. They are very good filters. Seachem tidal 110 is a better filter in my opinion. I would like it more if they added a shut off for the skimmer. I would rather have water drawn for the lower level of the tank. The removable media basket and the pump in the water are game changers. The construction of it just feels like a higher end filter and I think it much quieter. I also have a Marineland pro 450. Another very good HOB And it has the pump in the water as well. Going forward I will only use HOB with submerged pumps. I still prefer canister filters over any HOB but you can’t go wrong with these 3 filters.

[@Saltyeditzz]

I am deciding between the tidal 35 or auqaclear 20 and before even watching a thing i knew the tidal was for sure the better filter but for my 6 gallon nano tank it seemed way to big so i went with the auqaclear haha

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Ya, both a pretty huge for a 6 gallon. Haha

[@Saltyeditzz]

@@PrimeTimeAquatics yup however im hoping with filter floss and minimum flow it should be good.. i wish fluval did a smaller auqaclear than the 20 haha

[@ThePinkbunny007]

What was your opinion on the tidal surface skimmer? I don't remember if the aqauclear has that feature 🤔

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

I find it to be a nice gimmick, but would get rid of the feature because it doesn't serve much of a purpose.

[@stratomech]

I have had Both filters. I actually used two of the Tidal 110's on my 120 gallon. I do not like the Tidal 110, two reasons. The skimmer is too much, it requires me to clean the filer several times a week because it sucks in much of the food, I know it has been suggested to turn it off during feeding but it should be designed to be able to turn the feature off. It is noisy. The pump when set to higher flow rates makes a knocking sound, even after weeks of operation. Also no one ever mentions what it takes to clean the entire filter, just the basket. The Tidal is a puzzle box of parts and is awkward to remove from the tank compared to the Aquaclear.

[@CC-wy1yb]

Can you add indoor spider plants in your aquarium?

[@jl644]

Tidal 55 from Seachem rattles after 1 1/2 year later. Cleaned the motor and propeller and still rattle.

[@benhamor3304]

Is there an easy way to get a piece of sponge into that surface skimmer on the Tidal to keep shrimp or fry from getting sucked up? (Other than sticking a sponge to the outside of it, that is)

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

You could super glue something for sure

[@cbcsucks2205]

Just cut a hole in the end of one of your intake sponges and slide it up?

[@strikeout77777]

isn't the surface skimmer on the tidal going to suck up fry?

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

It could, but I generally don’t worry about it on this size filter because it’s rare that they are used in a breeding tank.

[@tomlr85]

So we're would you buy the foam pads, carbon, bio rings for the tidal? It's easy to buy material for the aquaclear because of the square body. But I want to give Tidal a chance and try it out

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

I buy most of the stuff off Amazon or Jehmco.com

[@amycarey-martin5230]

Thank you for your videos. They are most helpful. I do have a question now I have a 29 gallon tank. I have the cecum filter 55. Is it overkill to use a sponge filter with that or would that be just way too much. I have the main sponge that came with the filter and I cut up some of that flossing polish cloth and then I have the media in there the bacterial media. Would a sponge filter benefit me thank you.

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Thank you! I would just use the HOB. No need to add anything else.

[@amycarey-martin5230]

@@PrimeTimeAquatics thank you for getting back to me: just one more thing I am using three fine sponges plus the blue course one. Not the floss. Is this still good enough. I have a decoration that creates bubbles, this moves the water quite a bit at the top. Is this still good enough? Thank you

[@denisethompson3]

How do you feel about the Tidal 55 on a breeding tank? I’m currently setting up a breeding tank for my Juli Cory’s in a 20 long. My LFS suggested sponge filter which makes since but I really like these. I currently have two 35’s and they’re so easy to maintain. The 35’s don’t have an intake so I was going to put a sponge over the 55 so it doesn’t suck up the fry. Thank you for the info as always.

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

It would probably be ok, but not a fan of the surface skimmers on the tidal for breeding tanks.

[@littlemidwestrebornsdolls]

I really appreciate these comparisons. It helps me decide what I would buy. Thank you, Jason Gina Hetlage

[@rfishy9]

will I be able to use either one on an all glass 60 gallon cube tank? thank you...

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Yep!

[@davidshoard3271]

Another great video. Thank you...

[@vibesaquatics]

Thanks for the video bro 🔥🔥👊🏽

[@kenji.23]

Jason do you have any tips for the tidal 35 I find it sits too low with the output under the water line does not give enough water agitation. Mind you i have placed some sponge inside to block shrimp and fry being sucked up?

[@tommagnum8232]

It should definitely be mentioned about the aquaclear: it is not secured against overflowing. we had packed too much filter floss that was too fine and it overflowed at night! that cannot happen with the Tidal or an Oase Biostyle because they are secured against overflowing. for me the most important aspect of backpack filters! greetings

[@ianferguson4728]

Both great filters. Living in South Africa, where power outages are daily. Aquaclear not starting can be a problem. But generally, if you keep the water level decent, it always restarts. Aquaclear impeller shaft wears too soon. Out here, the cost of replacing the shaft and impeller is outrageous. Approximately a third of the cost of a new one. Not always available. Tidal sponge needs to be pimped. Simply inadequate. Bypass can be modified. Spares readily available and reasonably priced. Love the surface skimmer. Surface scum is bad, especially if you keep rainbowfish. All kinds of nasty pathogens hiding in there. Aquaclear lid rattling is irritating when the filter is older. I think the Aquaclear looks better. For me, Tidal with an extra piece of finer sponge is better for our situation in South Africa.

[@jorgeanaya2797]

Question, how often do you change the sponge filter and tinsel on the tidal??

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

I clean them weekly.

[@jorgeanaya2797]

@@PrimeTimeAquatics do you just rinse off tinsel and sponge or do you replace both at the same time once a week?

[@autumn1231]

Apparently Fluval just came out with an updated model of the Aquaclear

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Yes they did. Should have some to test soon!

[@autumn1231]

@@PrimeTimeAquatics really looking forward to it. Thanks Jason

[@cG-es8mb]

Would I need two seachem tidal 110 for a 125 gallon tank or just 1 be good? Plan on having an Oscar, electric blue acara, green terror, and a geophagus in it.

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

You might be better off with two Seachem tidal 75s - one of each side.

[@nabokovfan87]

I'm surprised you didn't mention or discuss anything regarding the bypass on the tidal. The way that you run them I think is relevant to the issue and I'm not sure if you've had comments mentioning the issue. On the Aquarium Co-op forums, experiments section, I have a thread that I did a massively deep dive on what issues I've had, trying to fix them. I still have the soundbyte pop into mind every single time I go to clean my filter of Jason saying, "Maintain your filter". I am trying!!!!! It's really frustrating when I can't get the filter to be a filter. Hopefully you see my notes and efforts on video on here or on the forum. Thanks for the content, especially the follow up stuff for reviews. As a hobbyist, that's the only stuff I really care about.

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

We turn the filter floss vertically and never have an issue.

[@nabokovfan87]

@@PrimeTimeAquatics there's a cutout on the basket, it's on the side right behind where the water outputs and looks like a small window into the basket, and that is bypassing directly onto the filter floss. That's why you're not seeing the bypass in the back of the filter overflowing into the basket. I highly recommend checking out the thread and or videos. I'd really appreciate it because I know you've used these things for just as much and as long as I have.

[@theaquariumproject]

I love tidal, here in spain is the most popular.

[@kylestivers4606]

My aquaclear 110 filters are 10 years old and still perform like new. Never had issues with them not starting after a power failure. You just have to keep the water level up.

[@meminustherandomgooglenumbers]

Same here. Aquaclear always restarted fine as long as tank water level was good. Only if the water level in the tank dropped (I.e.from a water change) did the Aquaclear struggle to restart.

[@kylestivers4606]

@@meminustherandomgooglenumbers I keep my water level high so I don't get a permanent water mark in the glass. They always start right back up in a couple of seconds.

[@edgararcega3046]

Which if the two has the least filter media bypass? I got 2 marineland penguin pro filters and the filter media bypass is horrible. The intake tube drops the water about a inch below the water line inside the filter canister then it overflows before it even gets through all the filtration. Now I am looking for some replacements that really push all the water through all the filter media before it has to overflow.

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Most people have less bypass with the Aquaclear.

[@edgararcega3046]

@@PrimeTimeAquatics awesome thanks!

[@glitcheddivinity]

Thank you for this!

[@catfishcave379]

I’ve been using the Aquaclear for 30 years and I still have never had it stop running. When I do my 90% water changes, the water drains out of the unit. However, once the tank is filled, if you add a little water to the filter, they restart in under a minute. I’m looking to switch over to the new Sicce Shark pro as I prefer internal canisters. I would love to see your review on that filter.

[@iron433decker]

Does the sea hem fix on 75 my aqua clear 110 didn’t fix on. It’s a aqueon

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

I'm not sure, but if you go to the Seachem website they have the dimensions required to fit over the rim of a tank. Their dimension specs are very helpful!

[@shannonburke7346]

Would fancy tail guppies get caught up in the intake?

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Probably not. Healthy guppies are usually capable of swimming away from filter intakes.

[@frootpoops1]

i have 2 Tidal 75s on one tank and a tidal 55 on another. They were not the first HOBs ive bought but for those tanks they will be the last!!!! (unless of course they break down or something, then replaced with a new tidal lol) but i LOVE the basket and the flow dial. You can turn the flow almost completely off which is very nice for feeding. Self-priming is such a huge positive as well! So many good things to say about the tidal i could talk all day XD

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Good to hear!

[@Jeswald1]

I have had both, and I threw them both away. I have planted nano tanks and shrimp, plus fish fry. The AquaClear intake jams several times per day. The Tidals have no way to prevent little critters from getting in. I have had dead fry jam impellers in both. It's sponge filters for me. If you have large fish, great; guppies/endlers/shrimp, these do not work.

[@DeltaKiloExotics]

Was curious what you thought of the surface skimming ability of the Tidal? The aquaclear doesnt have that option...also another bonus for the Tidal in my opinion

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

It's a gimmick I wish they would get rid of.

[@DeltaKiloExotics]

@@PrimeTimeAquatics Thank you for replying, this was going to be a selling point to me, disappointing it doesnt actually work, glad i havnt purchased one, thank you.

[@VictoriaLeeCreates]

I'll definitely keep them in mind 🤘🏻

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Good for the larger tanks 😀