Choosing a 55-gallon fish tank comes with a lot of considerations.
Large aquariums are available in a wide range of sizes and shapes. Some 55-gallon tanks also offer special features like a rimless design or low-iron glass.
Deciding on the best 55-gallon tank is overwhelming. We provide our top three choices for 55-gallon tanks to help you choose!
So, what is our top choice for the best 55 gallon fish tank?
We chose the Tetra 55-Gallon Aquarium Kit as our top pick for the best 55-gallon fish tank. This aquarium includes everything you need for a quick setup at an affordable price.
Our Top 3 Choices for the Best 55-Gallon Fish Tanks
- Landen Rimless 55-Gallon Aquarium (Best Choice for Planted Tanks)
- Tetra 55-Gallon Aquarium Kit (Best Overall Choice)
- Clear-For-Life 55-Gallon Rectangle Aquarium (Best Acrylic Large Tank)
Our Reviews of the Best 55-Gallon Fish Tanks
Landen Rimless 55-Gallon Aquarium
- Rimless design
- Low-iron glass
- Includes foam leveling mat
The Landen 90P Rimless 55-Gallon Aquarium is ideal for planted tanks because of its crystal-clear views from every angle.
Heavy-duty low-iron glass provides clearer views without the green tint of regular glass.
Mirror-edge grinding and uniform joint glue create smooth seams on the corners of this tank.
The 10mm thick glass is durable and has a transparency of 91%. This lets you see every nuance in your tank.
Light transmits well throughout the tank, encouraging the healthy growth of aquarium plants.
Landen is a company known for their excellent craftsmanship, and their aquariums have quality construction.
The only drawback to this tank is the lack of a lid. This makes the aquarium less ideal for jumping fish like bettas and guppies.
An open tank is also more prone to water evaporation.
Finding a lid for a rimless tank is challenging because there are no braces for attaching it.
But, some glass lids can fit on rimless tanks with special clip attachments. Mesh covers are another option, but they take away from the aesthetics of the tank.
- Shape: Rectangle
- Dimensions: 35.43 x 19.69 x 19.69″ inches
- Material: Low-iron glass
- Weight: 98.6 pounds
- Special Features: Low-iron glass, rimless design
- Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty
Tetra 55-Gallon Aquarium Kit
- Includes a complete start-up kit
- Two hinged hoods
- Lightweight design
The Tetra 55-Gallon Aquarium Kit is our top choice because it includes everything you need for a proper setup at a reasonable price.
Accessories included with this aquarium kit include:
- LED lighting
- Fish net
- Two hinged hoods
- 200-watt heater
- Two plant multi-packs
- EasyBalance Plus water treatment/conditioner
- AquaSafe water treatment/conditioner
- Boxwood plant
- TetraMin fish food
- Digital thermometer
- Whisper Power Filter
- Two filter cartridges
This aquarium kit also includes a handy care guide and quick setup instructions.
The Tetra 55-gallon aquarium is made from sturdy glass and features classic black bracing for added structural support.
Tetra’s Whisper Power Filter provides three stages of filtration with an adjustable flow rate of up to 300 GPH. A quiet motor ensures smooth operation without being too noisy.
Several customer complaints mention issues with the LED lights flickering. Installing an extra power adapter usually solves the problem.
Upgraded LED lighting kits are also available if you prefer a replacement. Check the size and placement of the lighting kit to ensure it fits within the hinged hood.
Another minor issue is the quality of the digital stick-on thermometer. External thermometers are less reliable than other types of aquarium thermometers.
A quality internal thermometer provides more accurate temperature readings.
This aquarium kit is still a great deal, even with the suggested upgrades.
- Shape: Rectangle
- Dimensions: 51.9 x 24.4 x 16.4″ inches
- Material: Glass
- Weight:79 pounds
- Special Features: Complete start-up kit, lightweight design
- Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty
Clear-For-Life 55-Gallon Rectangle Aquarium
- Enclosed design
- Sapphire blue backdrop
- Crystal-clear view
The seamless design of the Clear-For-Life 55-Gallon Aquarium makes it the ideal choice for a large acrylic tank.
Acrylic aquariums are lightweight, strong, and offer better viewing than regular glass aquariums. In fact, acrylic is around 17 times stronger than glass and weighs half as much!
But acrylic aquariums scratch easier than glass tanks. Keep this in mind when decorating or cleaning an acrylic tank.
Chemically-bonded seams are smooth and hold together better than silicone joints. Without any braces, you get an unobstructed view, and the tank has a modern look.
The acrylic top is built in with cut-outs for cleaning and attaching a filter.
A fluorescent light fixture is included with the tank, but you must buy the bulb separately. Consider replacing the fluorescent fixture with LED lighting, which produces less heat.
The sapphire blue backdrop adds a pop of color to the tank. It also reduces reflections in the tank.
Many enclosed tanks do not provide enough cut-outs on the lid for easy cleaning and aquascaping.
This enclosed aquarium has a much larger opening on the lid, so cleaning and setup are easy.
- Shape: Rectangle
- Dimensions: 48 x 13 x 20″ inches
- Material: Acrylic
- Weight: ~45 pounds
- Special Features: Enclosed design, chemically-bonded seams
- Warranty: Limited lifetime
Are 55-Gallon Fish Tanks Good for Beginners?
Many beginners in the fishkeeping hobby are intimidated by large aquariums. They believe a larger aquarium needs more maintenance compared to a smaller tank.
But the opposite is true.
Large tanks are just as easy to set up as small tanks. Plus, the maintenance is much less over time.
Due to the higher volume of water in a large tank, there is more leeway if you make a mistake. Small fluctuations in the water parameters have less of an effect on the entire tank.
A large tank is also a great way for a beginner to explore different aquascaping techniques.
There is no reason why a beginner should shy away from getting a 55-gallon tank as their first aquarium.
How To Choose the Best 55-Gallon Fish Tank
There are several factors you must consider when choosing a 55-gallon tank.
A 55-gallon tank is a major expense, so getting the right one for you is important.
Dimensions and Shape
It wasn’t too long ago when fish tanks only came in the familiar rectangle shape.
Thanks to advancements in materials like acrylic, fish tanks are now available in various shapes and sizes.
Besides the classic rectangle, 55-gallon tanks come in hexagon and cube shapes.
Hexagonal and cubic tanks take up less horizontal space. They fit well in corners and small spaces.
Another variation of the rectangular tank is the bow front. As the name suggests, a bow front tank is shaped like a rectangle with a curved front.
Bow front tanks hold more water and provide your fish with a bit of extra room. A bow front tank is an excellent space-saver and has a more modern look compared to the standard rectangular tank.
Look at 55-gallon tanks in person to better understand how much space you need for one in your home.
Material
Aquariums are usually made from either glass or acrylic.
Both of these materials have their advantages in a 55-gallon tank. The choice between the two is a matter of personal preference.
Glass is more resistant to scratches. This means you do not have to worry so much about scuffing the sides of the tank when decorating or cleaning.
A glass aquarium is not prone to warping, but it is breakable.
Acrylic is much lighter than glass. An empty 55-gallon acrylic tank can weigh half as much as the same-sized glass tank.
You also have more shape and style options with acrylic tanks.
Some acrylic tanks are even as clear as glass tanks.
Placement
Before you bring home a large 55-gallon tank, you must have an idea about where you want to place it in your home.
There are a few rules about where to put a fish tank.
Avoid placing the tank in direct sunlight or near heating and cooling vents. These areas cause temperature fluctuations in your aquarium, which is not good for your fish.
Sunlight also increases algae growth in a fish tank.
Do not place the fish tank in a noisy or busy area of your home. A lot of noise and movement can stress your fish, increasing the risk of health issues.
The space around your tank is important, too. You need enough room around our tank for hang-on-back filters and cords.
Maintenance is also easier when there are 10-12″ inches of space around the tank.
Speaking of cords, you must place your fish tank near an electrical outlet for plugging in your heater and filter.
Another consideration is the weight of your fish tank. A 55-gallon tank can weigh more than 500 pounds after you fill it with water!
You need a sturdy surface to hold the weight of a full 55-gallon tank. The best option is an aquarium stand.
An aquarium stand can support the weight of a large aquarium. Aquarium stands are usually built from water-resistant materials, so they do not warp when exposed to moisture.
Most aquarium stands also have storage for fish food and other supplies.
Cost
A 55-gallon tank can get expensive once you factor in the costs of a quality heater, aquarium filter, plants, and other necessities.
Research the tanks within your budget and go from there.
All-inclusive aquarium kits like the Tetra 55-Gallon Aquarium kit can save you money in the initial setup costs.
But keep in mind the included equipment is not always high-quality. You may need replacements in the future.
An all-inclusive aquarium kit is still a good deal, and many setups are available with quality heaters and filters if you do your research.
Reviewing 55-gallon tanks and equipment also gives you an idea of the item’s quality. It is not a good purchase if many people complain about the tank cracking or leaking at the seams.
Many fish stores and pet store chains have sales on aquariums several times yearly. Be sure you check the store’s return policy on sale items in case something goes wrong.
Warranty
Most aquarium manufacturers include a limited lifetime warranty on their tanks. This type of warranty usually covers leaking tanks and normal wear-and-tear.
If you cannot find warranty information about the aquarium, ask the manufacturer directly. The contact information for aquarium manufacturers is usually listed on their website.
Always fill out the warranty card for your aquarium so you have coverage for these situations.
Read the fine print on any kind of warranty you receive with your 55-gallon tank.
All-inclusive kits may include a warranty for the tank itself but not the heater, filter, and other included accessories.
If you buy your 55-gallon tank online, research the store’s return policy. Ensure the store warranty covers your purchase if your tank arrives broken or not as advertised.
Take pictures of broken parts so you have proof your item arrived damaged.
Should You Get a Rimless or a Braced Tank?
Rimless tanks have gained popularity among aquarists looking for a modern-looking tank.
There are advantages and disadvantages to rimless tanks as well as braced tanks.
Pros and Cons of Rimless Tanks
A rimless tank offers unobstructed views of your aquarium with its seamless design. Rimless tanks also look sleek and showcase your fish, plants, and coral reefs.
The glass used in rimless tanks is usually very thick. This keeps the tank structurally sound and prevents bowing.
High-quality low-iron glass is a common feature of rimless tanks like the Landen Rimless 55-Gallon Aquarium because it is clearer than regular aquarium glass.
Acrylic is also used because of its strength and clarity.
One of the disadvantages of a rimless tank is the visible waterline. If you have hard water, it can leave marks on the glass and take away from the aesthetics of the tank.
Another issue is finding a lid for these types of tanks. Standard lids do not fit on rimless tanks; you must find lids with specialty clip attachments.
A lid is not usually needed for your aquarium unless you have jumping fish like bettas or guppies. But lids do benefit your aquarium by slowing down evaporation.
Rimless tanks are also more expensive than braced aquariums.
Pros and Cons of Braced Tanks
Braced tanks have plastic trims at the top and bottom. This trim hides the bracing used for the seams and joints.
The trim at the top of the tank also hides the waterline.
Bracing means the tank manufacturer can use thinner glass without compromising the structural integrity of the aquarium.
Using thinner glass lowers the manufacturing cost, making braced tanks less expensive than rimless tanks.
But, there are issues with the compatibility of certain equipment with braced tanks.
Lily pipes, used in many planted tanks, usually do not fit braced tanks.
The plastic trim at the top also makes finding a suitable hang-on-back filter difficult.
What Is the Difference Between Stafire and Regular Glass?
Starfire is a brand name for low-iron glass. Not all low-iron glass is made by Starfire, but the terms are often used interchangeably.
Unlike regular glass used in aquariums, Starfire glass does not have a greenish tint. Starphire glass is almost completely colorless.
Starfire aquariums have a crystal-clear view, and the colors of your fish or coral reefs stand out.
Most people would not notice the difference in Starfire glass unless they saw it next to a tank with regular glass.
If you are on the fence about getting a Starfire aquarium, I recommend doing a side-by-side comparison in person.
There are a couple of downsides to Starfire glass.
Starfire glass scratches more easily than standard aquarium glass.
You must be careful not to accidentally rub gravel or other coarse surfaces against your tank. This usually happens during cleaning or setting up the aquarium.
Magnetic algae scrapers are the biggest culprits of scratched Starfire aquariums.
Gravel can get trapped between your algae scraper and the glass. Snails and other small aquatic creatures may also hitch a ride on your scraper and cause scratches.
Remedy this issue by storing your algae scraper outside of your tank between cleanings. Ensure the scraper is entirely debris-free before cleaning your tank with it.
Another issue with Starfire glass is the expense. Due to manufacturing costs, aquariums with true Starfire glass cost more than standard glass tanks.
How To Choose the Best Aquarium Stand for a 55-Gallon Tank
A 55-gallon aquarium can weigh well over 500 pounds after adding the substrate, decorations, and water.
You must use a dedicated aquarium stand for a 55-gallon tank. Aquarium stands are designed to hold the massive weight of a large tank.
Regular tables and bookshelves can collapse from the weight of such a large tank. This is a disaster you must avoid.
Size
Measure the exact dimensions of your 55-gallon tank. This ensures the tank fits on the stand without hanging off the sides.
If your tank is too large for the stand, your risk of leaks or breakage increases. Even one inch of overhang on either side of the tank can affect its structural stability.
The entire bottom of your tank must sit level on a flat surface. A bit of extra space around the tank provides more stability.
Most rimless tanks come with a foam mat you place underneath the tank for added stability. These mats also keep the tank level.
The height of the aquarium stand is also important.
A taller stand offers a more comfortable viewing height. You must also ensure easy access to the top of the tank for cleaning and performing water changes.
Material
Another consideration when choosing an aquarium stand is the material it is made of.
Aquarium stands are usually made from one of the following materials:
- Metal
- Plywood
- Particle Board
- Medium-Density Fiberboard
Metal stands have the benefit of being strong and water-resistant. But, they may not offer the storage space you need.
Plywood can support the heavy weight of a 55-gallon tank. This type of stand is not usually found in stores because they are custom-made and expensive.
Particle board aquarium stands consist of wood chips and glue and are an excellent choice because of their strength.
Medium-density fiberboard contains resin, so it is stronger than regular particle board. The resin coating also makes this type of aquarium stand more water-resistant.
Cost
Include the cost of an aquarium stand in your budget for a 55-gallon aquarium.
Most aquarium stands cost between $100 and $1,000, depending on the size and materials used.
Look for an aquarium stand within your budget, and ensure it has the durability and storage features you need.
What Are the Advantages of a 55-Gallon Fish Tank?
A 55-gallon tank is much easier to set up and maintain when compared to a smaller tank.
Small fluctuations in the water parameter do not affect a 55-gallon tank as much as a 10-gallon tank.
Maintaining a proper nitrogen cycle is also easier because of the larger volume of water. Ammonia and nitrite spikes are less common in a 55-gallon tank.
Another advantage of a 55-gallon tank is the ample space it provides.
You have more choices about how many fish or plants you add to the tank without worrying so much about overcrowding.
A 55-gallon tank is perfect for heavily-planted tanks or coral reef setups.
If you want to set up a community tank, a 55-gallon aquarium gives you more stocking options for the types of fish you choose.
These large tanks are an excellent choice for both freshwater and saltwater aquarium setups. A 55-gallon tank can house large schools of fish while still providing them with ample space for swimming.
Aquarium plants also have more room for growth in a 55-gallon tank. Water lilies and bushy aquatic plants like Anubias Barteri can thrive in larger tanks.
Are There Any Disadvantages of a 55-Gallon Fish Tank?
A 55-gallon tank offers many benefits in terms of ample space for fish and aquarium plants. But its substantial capacity also comes with a few disadvantages.
The biggest issue aquarists face when getting a 55-gallon tank is making room for it in their home.
These large tanks are usually 4′ feet long. Finding enough space for such a large tank poses a big challenge.
If space is a concern, consider getting a 55-gallon tank with a different shape. Hexagonal and cubic tanks save more space than the average rectangular aquarium.
The weight of a 55-gallon tank also makes moving it difficult. Placing your tank in an area and then deciding you do not like the location means long hours of draining and removing the contents.
You must also ensure your floor can handle the massive weight of a filled 55-gallon tank.
Another thing you must consider is the width of the tank. Most 55-gallon tanks are only 12.5″ inches wide, the same as 20-gallon ones.
This width can limit your aquascaping capabilities. If width is an issue for you, consider moving up to a 75-gallon tank, which is 18″ inches wide.
The height of a 55-gallon tank is about 21″ inches. This can pose a problem for some types of plants because they may not get enough light.
A taller tank can make cleaning more difficult as well. If the height of your tank creates issues with cleaning, you may need a shorter aquarium stand.
Taller tanks are not ideal for fish like bettas because they swim to the surface for air. You may need to increase your substrate depth to make these fish more comfortable.
What Kinds of Fish Can Live in a 55-Gallon Tank?
Both freshwater and saltwater species enjoy the space a 55-gallon tank provides.
A 55-gallon tank is the smallest size recommended for saltwater species because they are more prone to aggressive and territorial behavior.
Excellent choices of saltwater fish for a 55-gallon aquarium include:
- Dwarf angelfish
- Clownfish
- Dartfish
- Pufferfish
- Gobies
Many of these fish species do not get along well with their own kind but are friendly with other species. A mix of single fish from different species works well for a saltwater community tank.
Always research different fish species to ensure they are compatible with each other.
You must also follow the same set of rules when stocking a freshwater community tank. Some freshwater fish species, like bettas and African cichlids, are aggressive, especially toward each other.
Choose freshwater fish species with the same temperament and care needs.
For example, tropical fish cannot live in the same environment as cold-water species because they need warmer temperatures for survival. And aggressive fish can injure or kill peaceful fish species.
There are a variety of fish to choose from for your large freshwater aquarium, such as:
- Corydoras
- Plecostomus
- Neon tetras
- Mollies
- African cichlids
- Zebra danios
- Bettas
- Kuhli loaches
Consider an Oscar or green spotted puffer if you prefer a solitary fish over a community setup. These large fish prefer solitude and can live for up to 10 years.
A Closer Look at Our Picks for the Best 55-Gallon Fish Tank
Our pick for the best 55-gallon tank is the Tetra 55-Gallon Aquarium Kit because it offers great value.
The kit provides high-quality components, so it is easy to set up your new tank right out of the box without shopping around for accessories.
If you want a tank for showing off your beautiful collection of aquarium plants, the Landen Rimless 55-Gallon Aquarium is a perfect choice.
This tank offers crystal-clear views of your plants, and the light transmittance encourages healthy growth.
For a lightweight acrylic tank, the Clear-For-Life 55-Gallon Rectangle Aquarium is a great option. Its durable construction and seamless design give your aquarium a modern look.
Frequently Asked Questions About 55-Gallon Fish Tanks
How many fish can you put in a 55-gallon tank?
The general rule of thumb for stocking a fish tank is one inch of fish per gallon of water.
This number can fluctuate depending on the fish’s size and temperament.
Some species are schooling fish and need large groups to feel more secure.
Other species are very aggressive and should not be kept with other fish of their kind.
Do not add a lot of fish to your tank at once. This increases the risk of territorial behavior and fighting.
Always check your fish for signs of aggressive behavior. If a fish is always bullying others, you must put it in a separate tank.
You also need a good filtration system to handle the waste from many fish.
How many fish can you put in a 55-gallon tank?
The general rule of thumb for stocking a fish tank is one inch of fish per gallon of water. This number can fluctuate depending on the fish’s size and temperament.
Some species are schooling fish and need large groups to feel more secure. Other species are very aggressive and should not be kept with other fish of their kind.
Do not add a lot of fish to your tank at once. This increases the risk of territorial behavior and fighting.
Always check your fish for signs of aggressive behavior. If a fish is always bullying others, you must put it in a separate tank.
You also need a good filtration system to handle the waste from many fish.
How do I choose the right filter and heater for a 55-gallon tank?
A good aquarium heater should have an output of 3-5 watts per gallon for a 55-gallon tank. This means you need a heater with a total output of 165-275 watts.
Consider placing two smaller heaters in a 55-gallon tank for a more even water temperature. For a filter to efficiently remove toxins and bacteria from an aquarium, it must circulate all the water in the tank 4-6 times per hour.
The rating used for aquarium filters is GPH or gallons per hour. Choose a filter with a flow rating between 220 and 330 GPH.
There are several filter types available according to your needs.
A canister filter is a good option for mechanical filtration, but the flow may be too strong for certain fish species with long fins. Hang-on-back filters produce slower currents and are a better choice for long-finned fish.
Many of these filters include sponges for the growth of beneficial bacteria. Sponge filters are excellent choices for biological filtration. Most sponge filters need a separate air pump to operate.
Beneficial bacteria are crucial to the nitrogen process and serve as your tank’s biological filtration. These bacteria play a key role in breaking down toxic ammonia and nitrite into less harmful nitrate.
Some filters also use chemical filtration. This type of filtration uses activated carbon to remove heavy metals and other chemicals.
Most saltwater aquariums use a filter sump. Filter sumps provide steady water flow and filtration and are usually stored underneath the tank.
How often should I perform water changes on a 55-gallon aquarium?
Perform water changes in a 55-gallon tank every week. The amount of water you remove depends on how well-stocked your tank is.
Aim for removing and replacing 15-20% of the water. Removing more than 20% of the water at one time can disrupt your nitrogen cycle.
Always treat tap water with a dechlorinator before adding it to your tank. This ensures toxic chlorine and chloramine are removed from the water.
During the water change, use a gravel vacuum to clean the substrate. Fish waste, leftover food, and other decaying material settle on the substrate.
Also, take the time to remove algae from the glass sides of your tank with an algae scraper.
Use an aquarium testing kit to ensure your water parameters stay at optimal levels.
What are some common issues with 55-gallon aquariums?
A common issue with 55-gallon tanks is uneven water temperatures. One heater may not be enough to maintain the warm water temperatures tropical fish need.
Consider installing two heaters, with one on each end of the tank. Placing the filter near the heater also improves heat circulation throughout the tank.
Another common issue is cloudy water. This is a sign you either have too many fish for your filtration system or you are not cleaning the tank often enough.
Choose a stronger filter or install two of them in your tank. Ensure you keep up with weekly water changes and tank maintenance.
Avoid overfeeding your fish, as well. Overfeeding leads to more fish waste and leftover food decaying in the water.
This decaying organic matter releases harmful bacteria and ammonia, causing water parameter issues.
Can I use a 55-gallon tank for a saltwater or reef setup?
A 55-gallon tank is an excellent choice for a saltwater or reef tank setup.
Setting up a saltwater or reef tank is a bit more difficult than setting up a freshwater aquarium.
Crushed coral is the preferred substrate choice over gravel because it increases the pH levels in the tank.
You need a stronger filtration system for a saltwater tank. Filter sumps are a common choice for saltwater tanks.
For coral reef tanks, you also need a protein skimmer.
Marine salt creates the needed salinity in a saltwater tank. Do not use common table salt or aquarium salt.
Always follow the instructions on the package of marine salt for the correct dosage.
