Water is heavy. Heavier than you might think. Just 10 gallons weighs 84lbs or 38kg. And that’s before you’ve added substrate and decor.
Having a heavy duty stand that evenly distributes the weight is the difference between a success and disaster.
In this article, I share my reviews for stands suitable for tanks between 10 and 75 gallons as well as some considerations to make when picking.
10-20 Gallon Tank Stands
Altra Flipper Wood Aquarium Stand – 10/20 Gallon High
Altra’s wooden aquarium stand supports 10-20 gallon aquariums and is built from laminated MDF and particle board.
The bestseller in its category on many common markets, this attractive black sports an open top and bottom, providing room to display home decor and store equipment.
It features a unique design and is easy to assemble – a strong choice for smaller aquariums.
Last update on 2024-10-08 / Commissions Earned / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
OPTYMIRA 3-Tier Fish Tank Stand – 20 Gallon Long
This 3 shelf tank stand really impressed me with its simple yet strong design.
The powder coated metal is water, rust and scratch resistant.
I particularly like how thick the legs and shelves are. So many tank stands are flimsy and weakly built, but this steel stand is really meant to last.
The shelves are adjustable, so you can set it up to suit your needs. The black color and clean lines will match a wide variety of home decors.
Last update on 2024-10-08 / Commissions Earned / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
29-40 Gallon Tank Stands
FILKO Aquarium Stand – 20 Long/29 Gallon
This metal stand can hold two tanks: the top shelf can hold a 20 gallon long or a 29 gallon, while the bottom shelf can hold up to a 20 gallon.
Or, if you only want one tank, you can use the shelf below for storage.
Under the tabletop are two drawers for hidden storage as well.
This stand is simple, but sleek, modern and very sturdy. The frame features several X-crosses for added strength and stability.
Last update on 2024-10-08 / Commissions Earned / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Coralife New Style BioCube Stand – 29 Gallon
The Coralife BioCube Stand is designed to uphold tanks that are between 29 and 32 gallons.
Each stand comes with a shelf for storage of equipment, as well as cut-out holes in the back for feeding electrical cords through.
The stand is easy to set up and is crafted from water resistant materials, making it suitable for salt and freshwater aquariums.
Last update on 2024-10-08 / Commissions Earned / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Imagitarium Brooklyn Metal Tank Stand – 40 Gallon
Made from durable solid steel, Imagitarium’s metal tank stand is built to hold tanks of up to 40 gallons.
The stand features adjustable feet, allowing you to level the stand even if your floor is a little uneven.
Its sleek, modern black finish suits most homes whilst preserving the beauty of your aquarium.
The tank is also available in a variety of sizes.
Last update on 2024-10-08 / Commissions Earned / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
55-75 Gallon Tank Stands
Hyomdeck Fish Tank Stand with Power Outlets – 55/75 Gallon
I have to admit, I got pretty excited about this stand when I found it. I love that you can actually fit two fish tanks on it, a 55 or 75 gallon on top and a 20 gallon high on the lower shelf.
It has a storage cabinet on one side with a mesh door.
Color changing LED lights are mounted underneath the main shelf, providing light for the storage area and the section for the second tank down below.
The outside of the stand comes in several different colors to better match your home’s decor.
The stand itself plugs into the wall which powers a bank of outlets that you can plug your tank equipment into.
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Likeem Metal Aquarium Stand – 55 Gallon
This stand is a bit more of an economy choice. It’s very sturdy, with a simple metal design meant to hold up to the rigors of a 55 gallon tank full of water.
There’s no fancy cabinet or outlets, but there is a strong storage shelf that runs the entire length of the stand.
The steel frame is powder coated, making it water and rust resistant.
Last update on 2024-10-08 / Commissions Earned / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Further Consideration To Make When Picking Your Stand
Size, Weight, and Shape of Your Aquarium
The specifications of your aquarium must be taken into consideration when searching for an appropriate stand.
A larger, heavier aquarium should be supported by a suitable stand that is both strong and durable. The stand’s strength should match the gallon capacity of your tank.
Some stands are built to uphold rectangular tanks, while others are shaped to better accommodate aquariums with bow-shaped fronts. Be sure to choose a stand that is suited to the shape of your aquarium.
What Material is the Stand Made Out Of?
There are many different types of materials that should be considered when looking at purchasing an aquarium stand.
Popular materials are:
- Particle board (MDF)
- Plywood
- Metal
Particle board the the least expensive option. It is the wooden material often used to build store branded stands.
Though inexpensive, particle board is not suitable for upholding saltwater aquariums. Wood does not mix well with humidity and may degrade overtime if exposed to it.
Plywood is the standard choice of material and is used by many higher-end brands.
It is significantly more durable than MDF, often being used to build furniture and cabinets. For a stronger material made to last and uphold heavier tanks, plywood is a safe option.
Lastly, larger aquariums are often supported by metal stands. Metal offers exceptional structural support, able to uphold greater weights without sustaining damage over time.
Consider the Space for Equipment
Your aquarium stand has to provide enough space for you to store your equipment.
Reef aquariums, for example, require a considerable amount of equipment. Tanks with large door openings and adequate space can assist you in hiding this equipment, preserving the beauty of your tank.
If you’d like your aquarium to have a sump, you’ll have to account for the room it’ll take up when you’re browsing for a stand.
It is wise to purchase a tank with concealable storage and holes in the back board to feed wires through if you wish to maintain a tidy aquatic space.
What is a Good Aquarium Stand Height?
A common, and very good question.
The height of your stand will affect the visibility and accessibility of your aquarium.
If you have a shorter tank with few species of fish, you’re going to want a tall stand that’ll make it far easier for you to see and interact with your animals.
Stands can also be purchased with adjustable feet. Others are fixed in their height. This feature can be useful if you wish to raise or lower your tank depending to suit its surroundings.
What Look do you Want?
If your tank’s appearance is at the top of your priority list, you should certainly take into consideration the look of a chosen stand before purchasing it.
There are many different types of stand. Some are sleek, black and modern. Others sport vintage, rustic wooden aesthetics.
Striking a balance between aesthetic value and product quality is the key to making a sensible and appropriate purchase.
