Buying an AIO tank over a tank with sump

[PeterC2904]

So this February I plan on buying a new 50 gallon tank. I am kinda on a budget so I don’t want to go too crazy if I don’t need to. I was wondering if buying an all in one tank with the filtration on the side would work the same as buying a tank with a sump. Also what would you recommend on stocking capacity for each option.

 

[randomfishdude]

You would have more options with a sump.
I had a aio and the aio was quieter but the thing is your tank would be more like a 40 gal.
You can have more stocking with a sump since you can get Refugium and bigger skimmers. More filter options.
It is also harder to work on a aio in my personal opinion.

 

[TX_REEF]

I'd go with the sump, if you wanna save $$$ you can DIY the sump quite easily. My current build has a super simple DIY sump if you need ideas, 50 gallon display 40 gallon sump

 

[exnisstech]

Personally I would only go AIO if I had no choice like lack of of room for a stand with a sump. Sump if you have the means. Nothing wrong with an AIO but there are so many more equipment options available using a sump. As mentioned you can DIY a sump on the cheap. Get glass panels cut at a local glass shop or buy a baffle kit. I have had an AIO and it was a pain to work on as everything in back chamber was very tight.

 

[jmichaelh7]

Sump !!

Big refugium , tons of equipment it’s a no Brainer only those who are limited in space or no sump get aio