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Home > General > 10 Best Aquarium Stands in 2023 – Reviews & Top Picks

10 Best Aquarium Stands in 2024 – Reviews & Top Picks

aquarium and computer on a tableMaintaining an aquarium is not a simple task. The aquatic environment you create in your home requires frequent inspections and adjustments to ensure the marine life stays healthy. As an aquarist, you accumulate a great deal of equipment and supplies to keep your tank running, and it’s helpful to have a stand that will support your aquarium and hold essential items. Manufacturers produce several types of tank stands, but which one is ideal for your aquarium? We researched the best stands on the market and compiled reviews of ten of our favorite models.

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A Quick Comparison of Our Winners in 2024

Image Product Details
Best Overall
Winner
Flipper by Ollie & Hutch Flipper Fish Aquarium Stand Flipper by Ollie & Hutch Flipper Fish Aquarium Stand
  • Converts from 10-gallon to 20-gallon
  • Easy assembly
  • Open and closed storage for all your supplies
  • Best Value
    Second place
    biOrb Aquarium Stand biOrb Aquarium Stand
  • Affordable
  • Simple to assemble
  • Includes a hidden cable to keep it stable
  • Premium Choice
    Third place
    Flipper by Ollie & Hutch Neptune Fish Aquarium Stand Flipper by Ollie & Hutch Neptune Fish Aquarium Stand
  • Elegant design does not clash with décor
  • Sturdy frame is stable on any surface
  • Can be flipped to support smaller tanks
  • B R 20/29-Gallon Paneled Aquarium Fish Stand B R 20/29-Gallon Paneled Aquarium Fish Stand
  • Large storage area for equipment
  • Supports 20-gallon and 29-gallon tanks
  • Sleek design with hidden access door
  • Aquatic Fundamentals 55/38 Gallon Aquarium Stand Aquatic Fundamentals 55/38 Gallon Aquarium Stand
  • Affordable
  • Large storage area for equipment.
  • Fits 38-gallon and 55-gallon aquariums
  • The 10 Best Aquarium Stands

    1. Flipper by Ollie & Hutch Flipper Fish Aquarium Stand – Best Overall

    Flipper by Ollie & Hutch Neptune Fish Aquarium Stand small

    Size: 15.67” L x 25” W x 28.03” H
    Color: Oak woodgrain
    Assembly difficulty: Easy

    The Flipper by Ollie & Hutch aquarium stand won our best overall aquarium stand award, and it’s unlike any of the products on our list. It will support a 10-gallon or 20-gallon aquarium, and all you have to do is flip it over to convert the stand from one size to the other. We liked the open storage areas above and below the enclosed storage that let you add decorations or keep additional supplies for the tank.

    Some stands are difficult challenging to assemble, but most customers constructed the Flipper in under an hour without any issues. If you have a 20-gallon tank, measure the dimensions carefully before purchasing the Flipper. The stand is designed for high-walled tanks and will not support a model with short walls. Although we liked the Flipper more than the competition, we were disappointed that the woodgrain finish peels away when it gets wet.

    Pros
    • Converts from 10-gallon to 20-gallon
    • Easy assembly
    • Open and closed storage for all your supplies
    • Affordable
    Cons
    • Water damages the finish

    2. biOrb Aquarium Stand – Best Value

    biOrb Aquarium Stand, Black, Small

    Size: 13” L x 13” W x 23” H
    Color: Black/silver
    Assembly difficulty: Easy

    The biOrb Aquarium Stand is our pick for the best aquarium stand for the money. Its sleek and simple design is perfect for displaying your biOrb aquarium. It holds tanks up to 14 gallons and includes a hidden cable to keep the stand from tipping. If you have a larger aquarium, biOrb makes a larger stand for 20-gallon tanks. The frame is easy to assemble, but some customers added fabric pads to the base to make it more stable on hardwood floors. Most aquarists were happy with the stand, but some were concerned that a child or pet could tip it. If you have kids or wild pets, the biOrb may not be the best choice.

    Pros
    • Affordable
    • Simple to assemble
    • Includes a hidden cable to keep it stable
    Cons
    • Can be tipped by children or pets

    3. Flipper by Ollie & Hutch Neptune Fish Aquarium Stand – Premium Choice

    Flipper by Ollie & Hutch Neptune Fish Aquarium Stand

    Size: 15.75” L x 50” W x 30” H
    Color: Wooden veneer
    Assembly difficulty: Moderate

    If you’re looking for a stand with plenty of storage, and one that’s more aesthetically pleasing than most models, you can use the Flipper by Ollie and Hutch Neptune Fish Aquarium Stand. It supports tanks up to 37 gallons and features four interior shelves to store your aquatic supplies. The Neptune is one of the most elegant stands on our list, and customers were happy with its solid design. However, the product description created confusion when it stated the stand could support 650 pounds. The manual mentions it has a 400-pound capacity, but owners of the Neptune contend that the manual’s figure was a typo, and it can hold a 55-gallon tank weighing 650 pounds.

    Pros
    • Elegant design does not clash with décor
    • Sturdy frame is stable on any surface
    • Can be flipped to support smaller tanks
    Cons
    • Inconsistent weight capacity figures

    4. B R 20/29-Gallon Paneled Aquarium Fish Stand

    B R 20 29-Gallon Paneled Aquarium Fish Stand Storage Cabinet Fish Tank Base

    Size: 27.5” L x 15.50” W x 6.5” H
    Color: Black
    Assembly difficulty: High

    The B R 20/29-Gallon Paneled Aquarium Fish Stand has a large storage area to store supplies and supports tanks up to 29 gallons. Unlike other stands, the B R 20/29’s storage door blends in with the design to give it a sleeker appearance. Although the frame is sturdy and attractive, some customers had trouble with the assembly. Several pre-drilled holes were not deep enough, and customers had to use a drill to modify the holes to assemble the unit. However, the stand is stable enough to hold a 29-gallon tank after you struggle with the assembly, and most aquarists were happy with its appearance.

    Pros
    • Large storage area for equipment
    • Supports 20-gallon and 29-gallon tanks
    • Sleek design with hidden access door
    Cons
    • Assembly requires drilling

    5. Aquatic Fundamentals 55/38 Gallon Aquarium Stand

    Aquatic Fundamentals Gallon Aquarium Stand with Front Access Door, Black, Made in USA

    Size: 14.25” L x 48.75” W x 27.75” H
    Color: Black
    Assembly difficulty: High

    Most aquarium stands for large tanks require a significant investment, but the Aquatic Fundamentals 55/38 is an affordable option for your massive aquarium. It has a moisture-resistant base that most stands lack, and it has more interior room than other large stands. Customers loved the smooth, seamless design, but several had issues with the assembly. Like our fourth pick, the 55/38 requires modifications to assemble it correctly. Some of the pre-drilled holes cracked when customers installed the screws, and you may need a drill and wood glue to prevent damage to the panels. However, this problem did not occur with every unit, and some aquarists assembled it without issues.

    Pros
    • Affordable
    • Large storage area for equipment.
    • Fits 38-gallon and 55-gallon aquariums
    Cons
    • Assembly may require a drill and wood glue

    6. All Glass Aquarium AAG51007 15column Stand

    All Glass Aquarium AAG51007 15column Stand Knockdown

    Size: 29” L x 22” W x 13” H
    Color: Black and brown
    Assembly difficulty: Moderate

    The All Glass Aquarium AAG51007 15column Stand is designed to display a 15-gallon column tank. It has ample storage for your equipment, and although it’s tall, the stand does not wobble when it holds a full tank. The manufacturer had several complaints when previous product descriptions displayed an aquarium with a stand. The picture confused some customers because they thought the aquarium was included, but the photo was replaced with one that only shows the stand. Aquarists were generally happy with the stand, but some complained that the parts were damaged during delivery. Most of the damage was cosmetic, but, unfortunately, the company did not use packing that protected its product.

    Pros
    • Affordable
    • Attractive design for column tanks
    Cons
    • Parts often arrived damaged

    7. Imagitarium Preferred Winston Tank Stand

    Petco Brand - Imagitarium Preferred Winston Tank Stand

    Size: 12.5” L x 30” W x 29.5” H
    Color: Espresso
    Assembly difficulty: High

    The Imagitarium Preferred Wilson Tank Stand is designed to hold a 29-gallon tank. It has removable shelves on the interior so you can customize how you store your supplies. Instead of the black acrylic finish used on most stands, the Imagitarium has an espresso stain finish that makes it look like a premium cabinet. Customers were happy with the stand’s stability, but most had problems assembling it. The instructions are vague and unhelpful, and some aquarists spent hours putting it together. Also, the paneling is not water-resistant, and if you have a leaking filter, the water can warp and crack the finish.

    Pros
    • Attractive espresso stain finish
    • Affordable
    Cons
    • Difficult assembly
    • Paneling is not water-resistant

    8. HG Fluval Flex 15g Stand Black

    HG Fluval Flex 15g Stand Black, AHG15015

    Size: 16.34” L x 16.54” W x 30.31” H
    Color: Black
    Assembly difficulty: Moderate

    The HG Fluval Flex 15g Stand is made to fit 15-gallon Fluval aquariums, and it’s ideal for aquarists who prefer a simple design. Unlike many stands on our list, the Flex includes a shelf in the storage area. The modern curved design is unique when you compare it to the competition, and it complements the sloping lines of the Fluval tanks. Fluval aquarium owners were satisfied with the stand and liked how it made their aquariums stand out, and most did not have problems with the assembly. However, it’s only designed to hold Fluval products, and it’s pricey for such a small stand.

    Pros
    • Sturdy construction
    • Roomy storage space for supplies
    Cons
    • Only fits Fluval tanks
    • Expensive for a tiny stand

    9. Landen Aquarium Wooden Stand and Cabinet for up to 40 Gal Tank

    Landen Aquarium Wooden Stand

    Size: 26.62” L x 17.72” W x 33.86” H
    Color: Black, white
    Assembly difficulty: High

    The Landen Aquarium Wooden Stand takes a minimalist approach to its design and features a seamless door with black covers that hide the hinges. The tank supports 40-gallon aquariums and has a massive storage area where you can keep a sump pump or aquarium supplies. Overall, the Landen is a sturdy design that’s unlikely to tip from the tank’s weight, but it’s not the most straightforward stand to assemble.

    The instructions only include diagrams without text, and several customers had problems attaching the door hinges. Also, the packing material does not protect the wood from damage, and some aquarists were disappointed the company placed their brand name on the front of the door. The Landen is sturdy, but its dorm-room design will not appeal to everyone.

    Pros
    • Scratch-resistant finish
    • Nanofoam padding keeps the tank secure
    Cons
    • Design resembles a dorm room refrigerator
    • Some parts are damaged from delivery
    • Assembly is tricky

    10. Aquatic Fundamentals 55 Gallon Metal Aquarium Stand

    Aquatic Fundamentals 55 Gallon Metal Aquarium Stand, Black

    Size: 48.3” L x 12.8” W x 27.8” H
    Color: Black
    Assembly difficulty: High

    Aquarium supplies can be expensive when you have several marine creatures, and it’s nice to find a way to cut some of your costs. The Aquatic Fundamentals 55-Gallon Metal Aquarium Stand is the most affordable stand on our list for 55-gallon tanks, but it may not be the best option for supporting a 650-pound full aquarium.

    Most frames have a solid surface to support the bottom of the aquarium, but the Aquatic Fundamentals only has a narrow steel piece to hold the massive tank. Some customers were worried that the tank slides too easily without proper support, and others mentioned the center bar starts to sag under the tank’s weight. While it’s affordable, the stand is not very sturdy.

    Pros
    • Affordable
    Cons
    • Difficult assembly
    • No support panel for the aquarium’s bottom
    • Wobbly design

    divider-fishbowlBuyer’s Guide: Picking the Best Aquarium Stand

    Aquarium stands come in several sizes and designs, but which model is suitable for your home? Before picking your favorite, you can examine these factors that may influence your decision.

    Water Resistance

    Maintaining an aquarium without spilling water is unlikely, but some of the stands on our list are not water-resistant. Although they’re not as attractive as the wooden models, metal stands typically will not warp or fall apart from water damage.

    Interestingly, most stand manufacturers do not use water-resistant materials, but you can prevent damage from wooden stands by adding a waterproof aquarium mat that absorbs water and prevents cracking or warping. You can also add silicone caulk to the stand’s seams to prevent water entry.

    Sizing Problems

    If you have a 20-gallon aquarium and order a stand for 20-gallon tanks, the unit may not fit. Long tanks will not work on frames designed for aquariums with high walls, and tanks with unusual hexagonal or cylindrical shapes will only fit on custom stands.

    Before buying a support for your aquarium, measure your tank and check the product’s dimensions. You can also make an outline on a long table or floor with pieces of yarn or rope that match the product’s size. Lay your empty tank on top of the outline to ensure you will not have an overhang.

    Checking the dimensions and measuring the tank is essential, but you will not know if the stand fits until you assemble it. If the manufacturer provided inaccurate measurements on the product page, you might have to return the frame. However, some companies do not honor returns when the package is opened. Look for companies that allow returns even when the stand has been assembled.

    Storage Area

    The simplest stand designs do not include much room for storage, but you may need additional space for a sump pump and other aquatic supplies. Although most premium stands have storage areas, some do not include shelves. A large open space may be perfect for bulky components, but if you want to store food, filters, conditioners, and other small supplies, you’ll need a model with two or more shelves.

    clear glass fish tank with fishes

    Weight Capacity

    Stand makers provide weight recommendations for their stands, but most of them only offer estimates based on empty tanks. If your 55-gallon tank weighs 650 pounds when it’s full, some 55-gallon stands will sag or break under the weight. Check the product’s weight ratings and look for reviews from customers that mention how much weight the unit can tolerate.

    Generally, the wooden stands that resemble cabinets or entertainment centers are more supportive than models made with metal tubes. If you have a large, heavy tank, use a cabinet-style stand with more surface area.

    Appearance

    We reviewed several attractive stands, but some units are more fitting for a classroom than a home with elegant décor. If the stand’s appearance is a primary factor, you’ll generally pay more for a frame that looks like premium furniture.

    Custom Stands

    We included a few companies that make stands for specific aquariums. If you have a biOrb or Fluval aquarium, the custom stands made for those tanks are excellent, but we do not recommend using a standard tank with a custom stand. Some customers mentioned the disasters that occurred after placing their tanks on special stands.

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    Conclusion

    We hope our buyer’s guide and reviews have helped you discover the best aquarium stand for your home. We found several exceptional products, but the most impressive model was the Flipper by Ollie & Hutch aquarium stand. Because the unit has two platform sizes, you can flip it over if you need a longer or shorter platform for your high-walled tank. Our best value pick was the biOrb aquarium. We liked the affordable price and design that takes up less space than most competitors.


    Featured Image Credit: Penfer Lva, Unsplash

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