Waterbox AIO 50.3 or 65.4 vs Red Sea Max E-170

[Patrick M Bodega Aquatics]

Hello! I'm considering in investing in a 40-70 gallon AIO as my first reef tank. I've narrowed down my options down to the Waterbox AIO 50.3, 65.4 or Red sea Max E-170. What brand do you think is better? Thanks!

 

[leilani908]

Both waterbox and red sea are really good, but I have the waterbox AIO 50.3 and I love it! I did scratch the bottom of the glass easily with sand when cleaning, but that could be the same with a Red Sea too. Note that if you want a protein skimmer in your AIO, I’d consider getting a sump as well as the only sized skimmer that’ll fit in the waterbox filter is a small 20-40 gallon skimmer. I’d see how big the red seas filter is if you don’t want to get a sump to see if a skimmer will fit in their filter instead. Hope this helps!

 

[Zeal]

Imo. Do not start the hobby with a AIO tank.

 

[Patrick M Bodega Aquatics]

Thanks!

 

[Patrick M Bodega Aquatics]

Imo. Do not start the hobby with a AIO tank.

Do you mind expanding on that? Thanks!

 

[Patrick M Bodega Aquatics]

Should I go w/ a sump instead?

 

[LegendaryCG]

Should I go w/ a sump instead?

Well it depends if you want the extra benefits of a sump but keep in mind it comes with some new problems.

Benefits are that you can much easier use equipment, have more water volume, space for a refugium, more room to work, etc.

Cons are that its a lot more likely to Have a leak in the plumbing, its louder and it costs more to setup.

Either option is 100% viable to have a successful tank, an external sump ultimately is better though.

 

[kevin318]

I have the Red Sea Max e170 AIO and love the tank. Easy to care for, it's been great for me. I have SPS, LPS, some softie's, lots of Zoa's, and I have no water parameter or lighting issues. Water changes are a breeze and I just added the Tunze Osmolator 3155, works great, fits underneath, it's quiet, made the tank even easier.
You are just starting, you can always add a sump later.

I have mine in my office.

 

[Trey]

I see no reason not start with an AIO. In fact I would say it may be a smarter, less complicated option for someone new to the hobby...

As for your question OP, I like Waterbox.

 

[Zotch]

I think I am buying the E-170 tomorrow

 

[RickyReconRonin]

I bought the WaterBox 65 AIO and no regrets.