If you’re new to fishkeeping, consider starting with a 10-gallon aquarium—it’s perfect for beginners like you.
Not only does it fit nicely into smaller spaces, but it also offers plenty of options for creating a visually appealing setup.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you’ll need to get started with your 10-gallon tank and how to set it up.
Essential Components for Setting Up Your 10 Gallon Fish Tank
However, before you start setting up an aquarium, you need to consider what equipment you need for it.
You might not need a heater if you plan to keep cold-water fish.
But, you’ll definitely want a filter to keep your tank clean and maintain proper biological balance.
Fish Tank
First, you’ll need a ten-gallon tank. On the market, you’ll come across aquariums made of either glass or acrylic.
Each material has its pros and cons. You can explore more about which one might suit you better in another article.
Acrylic tanks are less likely to break, but they can get scratched easily. Glass tanks offer better clarity and are more resistant to scratches.
The choice is entirely yours. You can either purchase a tank with a cover or leave it open.
Filter
To maintain the right balance in your water and clear out any unnecessary particles, you need a filter.
For your 10-gallon tank, your top picks are either a HOB filter or sponge filters.
They’re compact, versatile, and do a great job without taking up too much space.
Heater
If you want to keep in your aquarium tropical fish, you’ll need a heater.
It’s best to go for one with an adjustable thermostat so you can set the right temperature for your fish.
Submersible heaters are commonly used for this purpose.
However, if you’re keeping fish that require cooler water, you might not need a heater as long as you can maintain the right temperature without it.
Lighting
If you have plants in your aquarium, you’ll definitely want the right lighting.
LED lights are your best bet—they save energy and give your plants the spectrum they need to thrive.
But if you’re getting a new aquarium, it might come with LED lamp already installed in the cover.
Miscellaneous Equipment
You’ll find a few more items handy for your 10-gallon tank.
First off, grab a fish net—it’s super useful for safely catching or moving fish.
A thermometer is also essential for keeping an eye on the water temperature.
Whether you’re breeding tropical fish or not, it’s crucial to know if the temperature matches your fish’s needs.
Don’t forget to use a water conditioner to remove chlorine and chloramine from your tap water.
For aquarium cleaning, a gravel vacuum cleaner will be your best friend—it’ll help you clear out debris from the bottom of the tank.
Test kits for your water may be useful but aren’t absolutely necessary. Especially if you have a large number of plants in your aquarium and you want to know what’s going on with your water parameters.
Deciding on the ideal fish species for your 10 gallon tank
Choosing the right fish for your aquarium is crucial. Different fish have different needs: some require large open areas to swim, while others need caves to hide in.
Some fish thrive with lots of plants, while others do not. It’s essential to match the fish species to the size of your aquarium.
For a 10-gallon aquarium, which it is not a large aquarium at all, you should opt for small fish species.
If a species you like isn’t suitable for a 10-gallon tank, consider either choosing another species or getting a larger aquarium to accommodate their needs.
When buying fish for your aquarium, remember that the ones in the store are often young and will grow much larger.
It’s important to choose species that can comfortably live in your 10-gallon tank as they mature.
Don’t let a seller convince you that a fish won’t grow much, only to find out later that it outgrows your aquarium.
I’ve seen this happen, so it’s crucial to research the species you want to keep to ensure they’ll have enough space as they grow.
Here are some of the most popular species that fit perfectly in 10 gallon aquarium:
- Bettas
- Pygmy Corydoras
- Small Tetras (like Ember Tetra, Neon Tetra)
- Chili Rasboras
- Harlequin Rasboras
- Celestial Pearl Danios
- Guppies
- Platies
- Shrimp and Snails
Choosing the best 10 gallon tank
Choosing the best 10-gallon tank may not be that easy. Here are some key factors to consider when making your choice. I’ll also share my personal recommendation, but feel free to make your own decision.
Tank Material
You have two options for materials: glass and acrylic. You can read more about them in another article, but here’s a quick summary.
Glass tanks are durable, scratch-resistant, and offer excellent transparency. They are generally recommended.
Acrylic tanks are lighter but less durable compared to glass.
Tank Shape and Dimensions
You don’t have to stick to one shape for your tank. Stores offer rectangular tanks, but you can also find cubic or other shapes.
Just pick the one that fits your space and meets your needs.
Personally, I think rectangular tanks are the best option.
Water Volume and Surface Area
Before buying your tank, make sure it really holds 10 gallons of water. Keep in mind that adding decorations and substrate will reduce the water volume significantly.
So, even if you buy a 10-gallon aquarium, there might be much less space for the fish to swim. Consider this when buying an aquarium and choosing your fish.
If you want to keep more fish, it’s a good idea to buy a larger tank.
Quality and Workmanship
Also, check the material of the tank. Look for tanks with smooth edges and sturdy construction to ensure safe filling.
If you’re ordering the tank online, it’s crucial to inspect it upon delivery. Unpack the package while the courier is still there and check for any visible damage.
Compatibility with Accessories
I recommend checking if the accessories you want to buy will fit your aquarium. Usually, we buy the aquarium first and then the accessories.
However, for aquariums with specific shapes, it’s important to choose accessories that fit well.
Consider things like filters, heaters, and lighting. Make sure that the tank has enough space for all the necessary equipment.
Budget
Of course, the price is important when choosing a tank. You should decide how much you’re willing to spend.
While it’s crucial to consider the quality, if you have a few 10-gallon tanks to choose from, it’s better to pick one with a good reputation and positive reviews.
I wouldn’t just go for the cheapest option but a lower price doesn’t always mean lower quality.
Brand Reputation and Reviews
The brand’s reputation and customer reviews are important too. Look for well-known brands and see what other people are saying about them.
I want to clarify that a cheaper aquarium doesn’t mean it’s lower quality. Throughout my career as a fishkepper, I’ve bought many inexpensive aquariums and been very happy with them.
Nowadays, I focus more on practicality and how well an aquarium is made.
I currently have an aquarium that’s larger than 10 gallons, but if I had to pick a new one today, I would go with the tank below.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QY3MNXS
This aquarium will make your setup look fantastic because it is made of low-iron glass, which is very clear and delicate. However, its delicacy means it can easily break with slight impacts.
Plus, its polished edges give it a very elegant look. LIFEGARD also offers a wide range of other products for aquariums and aquaculture. The set even includes an insulating pad, so you don’t need to buy one separately.
Be cautious when ordering online: ensure it’s well-packed and check for any defects, leaks, chips, or cracks upon arrival. It’s a great brand, but transport issues can happen, so be prepared.
This tank doesn’t come with a lid, so you’ll need to buy the lighting separately. I think this is actually a better option because you can choose the lighting that fits your needs.
If you want to have plants in your aquarium that need a lot of light, you should consider getting LED lights that are suitable for them.
The lighting ready-made sets is usually not very good and doesn’t offer many, if any, adjustment options.
My next suggestion is an aquarium from Aqueon. I recommend it because it is strong, well-made, and solidly built.
This tank is perfect for beginners. It is spacious and fits nicely with other furniture. Importantly, it is affordable, especially considering the high prices of glass nowadays.
You can easily adjust the cover and lighting to suit this aquarium.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D88SM9SQ
Choosing the right filter for 10-gallon tank
The most important part of setting up an aquarium is choosing the right filter. A good filter keeps the water clean, which is crucial for the health of your fish.
There are many filters available, so you have plenty of options.
Here are the key factors to consider when picking a filter, and I’ll help you find the best one for your needs.
Filtration Type
Each type of aquarium filter has its pros and cons. For a 10-gallon aquarium, Hang on Back (HOB) filters and sponge filters are good options.
HOB filters attach to the back of the tank and offer both mechanical and biological filtration. They are easy to maintain and come in many different models.
Sponge filters, which are powered by air pumps, also provide mechanical and biological filtration using a sponge.
These filters are ideal for tanks with delicate or slow-moving fish, and they are especially beneficial for tanks with baby fish (fry), as they create an optimal environment for their growth.
There is no need to buy a canister filter for a 10-gallon aquarium.
Filtration Capacity
Filtration efficiency is crucial when selecting a filter for your 10-gallon tank.
Ideally, the filter should be able to process the entire tank volume at least four times per hour.
When choosing a filter for a 10-gallon aquarium, it’s often beneficial to opt for one designed for larger tanks, such as a 40-gallon filter.
However, be mindful of the water flow strength, as some fish are sensitive to strong currents, which can harm or stress them.
Adjustable Flow Rate
Another important factor to consider is the adjustable flow rate, which is closely tied to filtration efficiency.
When you buy a filter with higher efficiency, it’s beneficial if it allows you to adjust the water flow.
This flexibility is essential because different species of fish have varying preferences for water currents – some prefer calm water, while others thrive in stronger currents.
Look for a filter that lets you adjust the flow rate to create the best environment for your fish.
If you choose a filter without an adjustable flow rate, make sure its flow rate matches the needs of your fish. Avoid a strong flow rate if you have fish that prefer calm waters.
Ease of Maintenance
Another important factor is the ease of maintaining and replacing filter materials. They are usually designed to be hassle-free.
When replacing sponge or other biomedia, choose a filter that is easy to clean. This ensures effective filtration over time.
An uncleaned and poorly maintained filter can get clogged and stop working properly.
Noise Level
None of you wants a loud and humming filter. Noise level is an important factor, especially if your tank is in a bedroom or office where you want it to be quiet.
It’s worth reading reviews to find out if a filter is noisy. If noise won’t bother you, focus on other factors.
Also, keep in mind that the filter’s noise level can increase over time. Proper care and maintenance can help prevent this.
Brand and Reviews
Without a doubt, the opinion and reviews of a brand are important when choosing an aquarium filter. For a 10-gallon aquarium, there are many options available.
I highly recommend the Aqua Clear 50 HOB filter. It’s perfect for a 10-gallon tank because it doesn’t take up much space inside the aquarium and is very efficient.
It’s often a good idea to choose a model with higher capacity than recommended by the manufacturer to ensure better water quality.
Many aquarists suggest using a stronger filter for optimal results, and I agree that it’s always beneficial to go for a higher-powered option.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000260FUM
If you take good care of this filter, it will last a long time. Be sure to keep sand or other particles out of the motor to avoid damaging the impeller.
If sand gets into these motors, it scratches the impeller, which can cause noise.
Clean it regularly by removing the filter housing. That’s all you need to do.
Choosing a heater for 10 gallon tank
If you plan to keep tropical fish in your ten-gallon aquarium, you need to choose the right heater.
There is a lot of conflicting information online, which can be confusing for beginners. So what size heater should you choose for 10 gallons tank?
I think that the most important factor is the air temperature in the room where the tank will be located.
This will help you choose the right heater. If the room is cool, you’ll need a heater with higher power, while a warmer room will allow for a less powerful heater.
From my experience, purchasing a good quality heater, though more expensive, is worth it because cheaper ones often struggle to maintain the proper temperature and tend to break down more easily.
The goal is to choose one that can effectively heat all the water in your 10-gallon aquarium. You don’t need to buy an oversized heater.
If you live in a warm area, a 50 watt heater should be sufficient. However, if the room temperature is around 60°F or lower, it’s better to use a more powerful heater, such as one with 100 watt.
When choosing the right heater, consider the following features:
Temperature Dial – his allows you to set the desired temperature easily. Many modern heaters come with this feature.
Indicator Ligh – look for a heater with a light that indicates when the heating element is on. The light should be off when the heater is not active.
Automatic Shut-off Sensor – this is an important safety feature. If the heater is out of the water, it should turn off automatically to prevent damage.
Remember, buying a heater for your aquarium depends on the type of fish you want to keep. While many fish can adapt to different water conditions, most fish sold in pet stores are tropical fish and require a specific temperature.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0027VMPXA
One of my favorite aquarium brands is Fluval, and for good reason. They offer a heater that I believe will meet your expectations.
It keeps the water at the perfect temperature for your fish to live comfortably.
Plus, the heater has an interesting design. However, it can be a bit tricky to hide in the aquarium, but it works very well.
Choosing lighting for 10 Gallon Tank
For a 10-gallon tank, you have several lighting options: regular fluorescent lamps, compact fluorescent lamps, or LED lamps.
I believe LED are the best choice, especially for aquariums with many plants. Remember that fish and plants have different lighting needs.
Some fish are sensitive to bright light, while others are affected by dim light. Plants, on the other hand, generally need a lot of light. Some plants need very strong light to show their colors well, but others prefer dim lighting.
Your choice depends on the type of fish and plants you want to keep. LED lights are a great choice for most tanks because they are long-lasting and provide sufficient brightness.
They also use very little electricity, which saves money on energy bills. Although LED lighting may cost more upfront, the long-term benefits and savings make it worthwhile.
A typical 10-gallon aquarium measures 20 inches long, 10 inches wide, and 12 inches high. An 18-inch light fixture will fit perfectly. The best lighting option for this tank is the Hygger light.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B093GZKYM9
The first LED light comes with clips for easy attachment to the aquarium glass.
It features a timer, adjustable brightness, and a design that fits well in cube-shaped aquariums.
The lamp offers many color settings and gradually brightens to mimic natural light conditions.
You can set it to simulate sunrise, sunset, or moonlight, creating a natural environment for tropical fish.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09B22VK8Z
The second LED light looks a bit different because you can place it anywhere along your tank.
It’s easy to set the timer, and like the other lamp, it gradually brightens and dims, helping your fish adjust to their environment.
You can also change the color to suit your needs. I’m sure you’ll be happy with these light, and your plants will thrive like crazy.
Maintenance Equipment for a 10 Gallon Tank
If you’ve already set up your aquarium, you’ll need to clean it regularly.
Here, I’ll show you the equipment you need to make cleaning easier and more enjoyable.
Gravel Vacuum
A vacuum cleaner is essential for an aquarium. It helps you remove water, fish waste, and dirt from the gravel. There are many types available, so you can find one that fits your needs.
For a 10-gallon tank, it’s best to use a vacuum cleaner no larger than 9 inches. A larger one will be harder to use.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XKGYJHR
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DBJ9YVB
Algae Scraper or Pad
To keep your aquarium clean, you need a scraper to remove algae that grow on the glass.
Invest in a good scraper for easy cleaning. Make sure to choose a safe one because sharp blades can damage the glass.
If the algae buildup is very heavy, a scraper with sharp blades might be necessary.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GFDGJJW
Water Test Kit
If you’re new in fishkeeping, you don’t need to buy a complete water test kit right away, though I highly recommend it.
A test kit will help you understand water chemistry and monitor your water parameters. This is crucial, especially in a newly set up tank.
You can find both test strips and liquid tests on the market, but liquid tests are more accurate. The most important tests are for ammonia, pH, nitrites, and nitrates.
My favorite kit is API, which includes all these tests. If you need to test for specific elements, you’ll need additional tests.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000255NCI
Sponge
I suggest getting some sponges to clean the glass inside and outside the tank. You don’t need anything special—regular sponges from discount stores will work fine.
Use one specifically for the aquarium to keep it clean. Don’t use any cleaning agents that could harm your fish.
Bucket
When you remove water from your tank, you need somewhere to put it. So you will need a bucket.
For a ten-gallon tank, one large bucket should be enough. A 5-gallon bucket should work, which you can find at a hardware store.
Make sure the bucket you use is only for your fish tank. If it has been used for cleaning, even if rinsed well, soap or cleaning residues can be harmful to fish.
If you use the bucket only to remove water from the aquarium, there’s no major issue.
But if you use it to add water to the aquarium, make sure the bucket is clean and free of chemicals.
Fish Net
A small net that fits your aquarium is useful for several tasks.
You can use it to add new fish, catch fish to move or separate them, and remove dead fish.
It’s also great for caring for plants. When you trim plants and the cuttings float, using a small net to gather them is ideal.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0002APXK0
Plant Tools
I recommend adding lots of plants to your aquarium. They will make your tank look better and improve the water quality and comfort for your fish.
To keep the plants looking nice, use the right tools like tweezers and scissors made for aquarium plants. These tools make it easy to plant and trim your plants.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07RNMDLM2
Water Conditioner
Because our tap water often has chlorine and/or chloramine, which can be harmful chemicals, we need to ensure it’s safe to use.
That’s why investing in a chlorinator is important for treating the water before adding it to the tank.
I personally recommend Sachem Prime because it’s highly concentrated and effective.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00025694O
Thermometers
You need monitor the water temperature in your fish tank. It’s crucial to maintain a stable temperature because big changes can stress out your fish.
You can choose any thermometer that fits your tank, even a basic one.
However, I prefer using a digital thermometer with an LCD display.
Actually, I really like gadgets, so that’s why I use it.
It’s affordable and accurately measures the water temperature.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002ZMFM4A
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01C6PE4G2
Air Pump
An air pump is a device that pushes air through a small plastic hose. At the end of the hose is an air stone that breaks the air into small bubbles.
You don’t need an air pump in every aquarium, but it can help improve water flow and oxygen levels. I use an air pump in one of my tanks but not in the other two.
It’s worth thinking about whether an air pump would be helpful for your aquarium.
Surface Skimmer
A surface skimmer is a device that removes detritus from the water surface, helping to keep it clean.
This improves gas exchange and increases oxygen levels in the water column. While not essential for every aquarium, it is very effective, especially if you have issues with biofilm on the water surface.
The skimmer can be attach to an existing filter or be used as a standalone equipment. It has a top inlet that allows water to flow from the surface.
UV Sterilizer
A UV sterilizer isn’t necessary for your aquarium, but it can be helpful.
It makes the water clearer and helps prevent diseases by using ultraviolet light to kill parasites, bacteria, and viruses floating in the water.
However, good UV sterilizers are expensive, and cheaper ones won’t be powerful enough to effectively kill bacteria and pathogens, even though they might slightly improve water quality.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08KSF2FT6
Reverse Osmosis
A reverse osmosis system helps you get high-quality water for your aquarium. For beginners, it may not be necessary, but as you gain experience, you’ll likely find it useful.
This system removes impurities from tap water, making it safe and healthy for fish and other aquarium creatures.
Some fish are very sensitive to water quality, so this system can help keep them healthy. You can learn more about reverse osmosis in the last article.
How to Set Up Your 10 Gallon Tank – Step by step
Here’s a simple guide to setting up your 10-gallon aquarium. For more details, check out the basic guide on how to set up fish tank?
Step 1: Choose the location
The first step is to choose a good spot for your tank. Place it away from direct sunlight and drafts.
Make sure the surface is level and strong enough to support the tank’s weight. Also, think about the noise from the equipment, especially the filters.
Some are louder than others, and if you put the tank in your bedroom, the filter noise might disturb you.
Step 2: Rinse the tank and decorations
Clean the fish tank with a damp cloth using only water. Do not use any soaps or detergents as they can be harmful to fish.
Rinse any decorations and gravel with running water before placing them back in the tank.
If you use special substrate for plants, check the label to see if the manufacturer recommends rinsing it.
Step 3: Install the filter and heater
Now, install the filter and heater according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure the filter is placed correctly and the heater is fully submerged. For now, keep all devices turned off.
Step 4: Add substrate and decorations
Now you can add the substrate to your tank, raising it evenly as I mentioned before. It’s usually not necessary with ready-made plant substrates.
Arrange the plant, rock and decorations as you like to create a visually appealing effect.
It might be helpful to set up the decorations first and then install the devices to match your layout. You can switch these two steps if you prefer.
Step 5: Fill the tank with water
Now you can fill your tank with water, as long as there are no fish in it yet. Use room temperature water to avoid large temperature differences, which can harm your plants.
Use a water conditioner to remove chlorine. Add the water very slowly to avoid disturbing the substrate. You can place a small plate on the substrate and pour water onto it to help with this.
Even though there are no fish yet, it’s important to get things right from the start. Leave some space at the top to prevent overflow.
Step 6: Install the thermometer and lighting
Now you can attach the thermometer to the tank’s side and install the lighting according to the manufacturer’s instructions. For more information on lighting, check another article.
Step 7: Cycle the tank
Now is a crucial time when you’re starting your aquarium. Cycling the tank is important for the biological system to establish properly.
Beneficial bacteria need to grow in your filter during this time. Adding a bacterial starter or a bit of fish food helps kick-start this process.
It’s also important to keep an eye on the water quality during this phase.
Step 8: Monitor and adjust the water conditions
As I mentioned before, you need to keep an eye on your water’s conditions now. Check that the water has the correct temperature and the right parameters for the fish you’re going to add.
Step 9: Introduce your fish
If your tank is prepared and the water conditions are right, you can add new fish to your aquarium. The fish need time to get used to their new environment.
So, before putting them directly into the tank, it’s a good idea to float the bag with the fish in the aquarium water for a while to adjust the temperature.
For more details on introducing fish, you can refer to another article.
Step 10: Maintain the tank
Now all you need to do is take care of your tank. Keep the water clean by changing it regularly, remove dirt and keep the water quality high.
Clean algae off the glass and check your equipment to make sure everything is working well. By taking these steps regularly, your fish will be happy and healthy.
In conclusion
I hope this article helped you pick the right 10-gallon aquarium and the necessary equipment. If a 10-gallon tank feels like too much to handle, you can always start with a smaller one.
I’ve also written an article on setting up a five-gallon aquarium, where you’ll find tips and recommended equipment for that size.
Keep in mind that larger aquariums are often easier to manage. From my own experience, I had more trouble with smaller tanks than with larger ones.
Even now, I find that smaller aquariums can be trickier than bigger ones.
Check out other articles on the website for more aquarium setup tips.
