Custom Aquariums VERSUS Out-of-the-box Aquariums: They both have their advantages!

[revhtree]

The choice of the perfect aquarium is like a canvas for an artist's masterpiece. When researching a new aquarium, we often wonder which tank is best for us: custom-built aquariums versus standard out-of-the-box and mass-produced alternatives. Each option presents a unique set of pros and cons!

Custom Built
A custom-built aquarium is meticulously designed to cater to every whim and fancy of its owner. Crafted with precision and care, these tanks offer a realm of possibilities, from unconventional shapes that complement specific architectural elements to tailor-made dimensions that perfectly fit available spaces. The "pro" of a custom aquarium lies in its ability to reflect the owner's vision, preferences, and specific needs.

Out-of-the-box
On the other hand, standard out-of-the-box and mass-produced aquariums present a different appeal. They offer a convenient and more cost-effective solution, readily available in a variety of sizes and designs to cater to the broader reefkeeping community. These aquariums often come with well-designed filtration systems, making them user-friendly for both beginners and experienced hobbyists. For those seeking a more straightforward approach to reefkeeping, these ready-made options can be an attractive and practical choice.

Are you drawn to the uniqueness and creative possibilities of a custom-built aquarium, or do you find comfort in the ease and accessibility of standard mass-produced alternatives?

 

[Reefer Matt]

All of my tanks are mass produced. I don't value having an expensive brand name aquarium, I value what goes inside.

 

[afrokobe]

I bought a custom built tank that someone else returned? lol I don't have the funds right now to do a full custom build, but also not opposed to off the shelf stuff if it's the layout i want.

 

[BZOFIQ]

Custom, every time. You order EXACTLY what you want.

 

[PhishMonger84]

I will have to go custom when i upgrade, in several years. there are no standard factory tanks larger than 180 any more.
and i want an 8x3 or 8x3.5"

 

[Gumbies R Us]

Got an out-of-the-box one. Later on down the road I will probably go with a custom one

 

[vetteguy53081]

The choice of the perfect aquarium is like a canvas for an artist's masterpiece. When researching a new aquarium, we often wonder which tank is best for us: custom-built aquariums versus standard out-of-the-box and mass-produced alternatives. Each option presents a unique set of pros and cons!

Custom Built
A custom-built aquarium is meticulously designed to cater to every whim and fancy of its owner. Crafted with precision and care, these tanks offer a realm of possibilities, from unconventional shapes that complement specific architectural elements to tailor-made dimensions that perfectly fit available spaces. The "pro" of a custom aquarium lies in its ability to reflect the owner's vision, preferences, and specific needs.

Out-of-the-box
On the other hand, standard out-of-the-box and mass-produced aquariums present a different appeal. They offer a convenient and more cost-effective solution, readily available in a variety of sizes and designs to cater to the broader reefkeeping community. These aquariums often come with well-designed filtration systems, making them user-friendly for both beginners and experienced hobbyists. For those seeking a more straightforward approach to reefkeeping, these ready-made options can be an attractive and practical choice.

Are you drawn to the uniqueness and creative possibilities of a custom-built aquarium, or do you find comfort in the ease and accessibility of standard mass-produced alternatives?

Last 5 tanks . . . 4 were custom built including current one and Oceanic was you can say out of the box

 

[BZOFIQ]

I think Aqueon would benefit greatly if their standard line would include tanks that are 30-32" wide

 

[Sleeping Giant]

I'm way to cheap for a custom, so outta box it is

 

[7of9]

I'm way to cheap for a custom, so outta box it is

Same. I just can’t justify that kind of coat on top of everything I would put in it, just for a hobby.

 

[Azael]

Custom aquarium for me because I wanted to take advantage of all the available space

 

[ThaBeast]

I typically do custom because I want certain dimensions. This current build, Planet had one stock unit that would have worked but the communications issues between my LFS and Planet made me order a custom elsewhere

 

[exnisstech]

Custom for my next build because its the only way to get a tank with the dimensions I want and an external overflow.
Over priced but I love my 2 redsea tanks that I have. I love the ease of assembly and clean look of the plumbing. My plumbing skills are functional but have terrible form.

 

[Dom]

In the same way that a painter starts with a blank canvass, or a sculptor starts with a block of marble, I prefer a tank out of the box that I can customize. Much cheaper than buying a custom tank.