Best aquarium stands & accessories – guide for choice, setup & more

Updated: August 31, 2022 - By: - Categories: Equipment

Whenever you have an aquarium over 5 gallons, don’t ignore the need for an aquarium stand. Selecting the right aquarium stand can be as important as the aquarium itself. An aquarium stand needs to be sturdy and strong but still look nice at the same time. This article will sort out any hesitation you have when choosing a stand for your tank.

[Comparison table] Best aquarium stands

Model Our rating Dimensions For tanks Material Color choice Available sizes
Ameriwood Home Flipper 10/20 Gallon Aquarium Stand editor's ratingAmeriwood Home Flipper 10/20 Gallon Aquarium Stand #ad 25″ L x 15.7″ W x 28″ H 10/20-gallon MDF and particleboard Black Oak (this), Rustic Oak #ad, Ivory Oak #ad
Imagitarium Newport Wooden 20-Gallon Tank Stand editor's ratingImagitarium Newport Wooden 20-Gallon Tank Stand #ad 24.75″ L x 12.75″ W x 30.25″ H 20-gallon solid wood black
Aqueon Forge Aquarium Stand editor's ratingAqueon Forge Aquarium Stand #ad 20″ L x 10″ W 10-gallon steel reversible brown/black wood panels 20 by 12-inch (this), 24 by 12-inch #ad, 30 by 12-inch #ad
Aquatic Fundamentals Metal Aquarium Stand editor's ratingAquatic Fundamentals Metal Aquarium Stand #ad 30.3″ L x 12.5″ W x 27.8″ H 20-gallon long / 29-gallon steel black (gray available) 20.9″ L x 11″ W, 24.3″ L x 12.5″ W, 30.3″ L x 12.5″ W, 48.3″ L x 12.8″ W
Caitec Bird Toys TitanEze Double Aquarium Stand editor's ratingCaitec Bird Toys TitanEze Double Aquarium Stand #ad 32.5″ L x 13″ W x 32″ H 20-gallon long, 29-gallon steel black 22.5″ L x 10″ W, 26.5″ L x 13″ W, 32.5″ L x 13″ W, 38.5″ L x 13″ W, 38.5″ L x 18.5″ W, 50.5″ L x 13″ W, 50.5″ L x 18.5″ W
Imagitarium Preferred Winston Tank Stand editor's ratingImagitarium Preferred Winston Tank Stand #ad 30″ L x 12.5″ W x 29.5″ H 20-gallon long / 29-gallon solid wood espresso
Imagitarium Brooklyn Metal Tank Stand editor's ratingImagitarium Brooklyn Metal Tank Stand #ad 36.5″ L x 18.5″ W x 29.5″ H 40-gallon breeding tank, 50/65-gallon steel black 20.5 by 10.5-inch #ad,  24.5 by 12.75-inch #ad, 30 by 12.5-inch #ad, 36.5 by 18.5-inch, 48.5 by 13.5-inch #ad
Aquatic Fundamentals Aquarium Stand with Storage editor's ratingAquatic Fundamentals Aquarium Stand with Storage #ad 37.37″ L x 13.12″ W x 28.25″ H 30-gallon MDF wood black (serene cherry and solar oak available) 31.37″ L x 13.12″ W, 37.37″ L x 13.12″ W, 37.37″ L x 19.37″ W, 49.37″ L x 13.12″ W, 49. 37″ L x 19. 37″ W
Flipper Wildwood 55 Gallon Aquarium Stand editor's ratingFlipper Wildwood 55 Gallon Aquarium Stand #ad 50″ L x 15.75″ W x 30″ H 55-gallon particleboard rustic gray
Aqua Culture Deluxe Aquarium Stand editor's ratingAqua Culture Deluxe Aquarium Stand #ad 48.75″ L x 14.25″ W x 27.75″ H 55-gallon MDF wood serene cherry or black
Coralife Designer Biocube Stand editor's ratingCoralife Designer Biocube Stand #ad 20.5″ W x 20.75″D x 29″ H Coralife Biocube size 29/32 MDF wood black 20.5″ W x 20.75″ D, 15.5″ W x 16″ D

How to choose the right aquarium stand?

Choosing the right aquarium stand is like picking out a new pair of shoes. There are many different sizes, colors, designs, and additional features that can make choosing the right stand a bit tedious. Most of these tend to be personal preferences, but there are some fundamentals behind choosing the right aquarium stand that will fit your aquarium needs.

Aquarium dimensions

The main thing to note when searching for the right aquarium stand is knowing what the bottom dimensions of your aquarium are. Most aquarium brands will give you the dimensions so you don’t have to do any measuring, or you could measure it to make sure. Once you know this, you can make sure you are purchasing a stand that will fit the entire aquarium without any part hanging over.

Following is the table of popular aquarium dimensions that you can refer to.

Tank Sizes Dimensions (L x W x H) Weight
2.5 gallons 12″ x 6″ x 8″ 27 lbs
5 gallons 16″ x 8″ x 10″ 62 lbs
10 gallons 20″ x 10″ x 12″ 111 lbs
15 gallons 24″ x 12″ x 12″ 170 lbs
15 gallons high 20″ x 10″ x 18″ 170 lbs
20 gallons 24″ x 12″ x 16″ 225 lbs
20 gallons long 30″ x 12″ x 12″ 225 lbs
25 gallons 24″ x 12″ x 20″ 282 lbs
29 gallons 30″ x 12″ x 18″ 330 lbs
30 gallons 36″ x 12″ x 16″ 348 lbs
40 gallons 36″ x 18″ x 16″ 458 lbs
40 gallons long 48″ x 12″ x 16″ 455 lbs
50 gallons 36″ x 18″ x 19″ 600 lbs
55 gallons 48″ x 13″ x 21″ 625 lbs
65 gallons 36″ x 18″ x 24″ 772 lbs
75 gallons 48″ x 18″ x 21″ 850 lbs
90 gallons 48″ x 18″ x 24″ 1050 lbs
125 gallons 72″ x 18″ x 21″ 1400 lbs
150 gallons 72″ x 18″ x 28″ 1800 lbs
180 gallons 72″ x 24″ x 25″ 2100 lbs

Weight

On average water weighs about 9 pounds per gallon. As you increase the gallons of your aquarium, the heavier it will be. Add in all the rocks, décor, and the substrate on the bottom of the aquarium, and your aquarium is even heavier. It should also be mentioned that saltwater tends to weigh a bit more than freshwater. With this, you can see that finding a stand that is built out of sturdy materials is very important to the overall support of your aquarium.

Aquarium shape

How does the shape of the aquarium make a difference in what stand you purchase? Just as mentioned above, it is important to know the dimensions of your aquarium. Most aquariums are rectangular, but you can also find ones that are hexagon, round, or cubed. There are some specially-shaped aquariums out there on the market as well. Some of these oddly shaped aquariums have stands that fit them specifically, making it easier for you.

The main thing to make sure of is that the entire bottom of your aquarium is supported by the stand, with no corners or edges off the stand.

Stand material

Because your aquarium has the potential of weighing quite a bit, you really want to make sure that the stand is made from solid material. This can make a huge price difference, but you ultimately get what you pay for.

Good-quality long-lasting aquarium stands are made from either solid wood and plywood or metal. Both of these materials are built to withstand exposure to moisture, can hold quite a bit of weight, and overall last longer.

Other aquarium stands are made from particleboard and/or MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard). These work well until the finish gets chipped or scratched. Without the protection of the finish, these stands quickly get damaged by water. Ensure you handle very carefully with these stands and seal the finish right away after discovering any scratch.

Glass or acrylic aquarium

While glass aquariums need to be supported around the edges, acrylic ones need that for the entire bottom. Choosing a wrong stand or supporting your aquarium wrongly is the easiest way to break the bottom glass or acrylic.

For glass aquariums, the bottom edges need to be supported. A stand with a top either open or close will do well with a glass aquarium as long as you support the tank in the right way. Use four elastic mats to support the edges of the glass aquarium. You should NOT support the entire bottom of a glass tank with a mat. This can easily break the glass if the support surface is not flat.

For acrylic aquariums, the entire bottom needs to be supported, not just the edges, to prevent bowing or splitting. This is because acrylic is more elastic than glass. You will need a stand with a flat surface on the top to support an acrylic tank. You can place an acrylic tank directly on the flat surface without any mat. If you use a mat, ensure it is flat.

Storage space

Another factor to consider when choosing an aquarium stand is how much space is given underneath for a sump filtration system or any other equipment that goes along with maintaining your aquarium. As well as ease of access to this area.

This is especially important if you are designing a large reef aquarium with a sump, multiple pumps, skimmers, and any reactors you might be using. If you are doing a freshwater planted aquarium, you will need space to keep your CO2 supply system, any cleaning supplies, or other nutrients that you might be adding.

Height

The height of most aquarium stands is around 28-30 inches tall, mainly so the aquarium can be viewed while sitting down. Some all-in-one aquarium kits come with a stand that can be a bit taller, about 30-36 inches.

Mainly you want to ask yourself how you’ll be viewing your aquarium. Will you be sitting or standing?

The height also has a direct relation with how much space is given underneath for storage, as mentioned above. Do you need space to fit your arm and head inside to do maintenance?

Moisture

As you can imagine, aquariums cause a lot of moisture. Whether it is from humidity, evaporation, spillage from cleanings, or just everyday splashing from your happy aquatic inhabitants. For this reason, it is important to have a stand that will hold up to all moisture.

If you are creating a saltwater reef habitat, know that you will have what is called salt creep. As the water evaporates from the active water flow and increased temperatures, the salt in the water does not evaporate. Leaving built-up salt on any surface that it comes into contact with. Over time salt can eat through, and wear down any metal joints in the wood stand or cause rust on the steel stand.

Best fish tank stand reviews

Ameriwood Home Flipper 10/20 Gallon Aquarium Stand

This basic particle board aquarium stand has been reimagined to look like a modern tier-like pedestal stand with an elegant flare.

Flipping the standFlipping the stand #ad

It has the capability to fit either a 10- or 20-gallon aquarium, simply by flipping the entire stand top over bottom. The smaller end fits a 10-gallon, and the larger end fits up to a 20-gallon, edge to edge.

CabinetCabinet #ad

It features a large storage cabinet, to store all the necessary aquarium supplies and equipment while keeping your aquarium space neat and clutter-free.

This stand also provides additional shelf space, top, and bottom, for the option of displaying any desired home décor or aquarium accents.

This aquarium stand would work great with glass or acrylic aquariums. Its black oak woodgrain finish helps complete the minimalist look so many aquarists are looking for today.

Imagitarium Newport Wooden 20-Gallon Tank Stand

This simple, yet modern aquarium stand is made from solid wood, painted black to seamlessly match any home décor style.

Unbox the Imagitarium Newport Wooden StandUnbox the Imagitarium Newport Wooden Stand #ad

This stand is easy to assemble as it comes with all components you need for the setup, including two leg assemblies, three shelves, screws, and two wood bars. It also comes with adjustable protective nylon feet to make leveling super easy.

Measuring 24.75 inches long, the top can fit up to a 20-gallon aquarium (high form), edge to edge. The top is a solid piece of wood, making it a great option for glass or acrylic aquariums.

It provides two additional shelves, one in the middle and at the bottom, to store any food or other aquarium supplies. You can use them to place your aquarium equipment or exhibit your home décor. You can place some nano tanks on the lower shelves but ensure the total weight is not too heavy to destroy the stand.

Aqueon Forge Aquarium Stand

This is a great option for those aquarists that are looking for a multi-tank setup. The top can fit a 10-gallon tank. The bottom fits a smaller aquarium of 5.5 gallons or provides more space for home décor. There are three size options for this stand: 20″ L x 10″ W (reviewed version), 24″ L x 12″ W for 15/20 Gal, and 30″ L x 12″ W for 20 Gal long or 29 Gal.

Aqueon Forge aquarium stand componentsAqueon Forge aquarium stand components #ad

The Aqueon Forge aquarium stand is constructed from rust-resistant powder-coated steel and is easy to assemble in 7 easy steps in the product guide from Aqueon. It comes with leg assemblies, top and bottom frames, six screws, and other small parts. Assembling the stand is as easy as fixing the six screws to connect separated parts together as in the product picture.

This stand also features two reversible wood panels with one side black and the other light brown. This is to provide a bit of individuality and versatility in creating the perfect look. The top wood panel can easily flip up, providing easy access for cleaning the bottom aquarium.

Aquatic Fundamentals Metal Aquarium Stand

The Aquatic Fundamentals metal aquarium stand is elegantly crafted from powder-coated steel and displays a stunning scroll leaf pattern down both sides of the stand. The item requires assembly upon delivery and this process is just a squeeze.

You can place a flat wood panel (buy separately) on the bottom frame to create an open shelf for placing large aquarium equipment such as a canister filter, CO2 cylinder… You can also place smaller aquariums on the bottom frame if only an aquarium can’t satisfy your hobby of keeping fish.

The reviewed version is 30.3 by 12.5 inches, used for a 20-gallon long or 29-gallon tank. It is available in 4 sizes for tanks up to 48 inches. It also has two powder-coated finish color options, black, or gray.

Caitec Bird Toys TitanEze Double Aquarium Stand

This sturdy stand is embellished with decorative swirls on the front, giving it an elegant look that will match any home décor. It’s made from powder-coated steel, making it moisture and rust-resistant.

Support two tanks of the same sizeSupport two tanks of the same size #ad

This aquarium stand can fit two 29-gallon aquariums, one top, and one bottom. Its double tank capability gives space for many different aquarium setups, from freshwater planted aquariums with CO2 to saltwater aquariums with a sump filtration.

Insert four legs into the base of the standInsert four legs into the base of the stand #ad

The most special feature of this aquarium stand is that it’s very easy and quick to assemble with no additional tools required. Just insert the four legs into the stand base then install the top assembly into the legs and insert caps.

Thank to this special design, you can easily disassemble the stand when you don’t need to use it. However, this design makes it not too sturdy to withstand large aquarium volumes over 55 gallons. So, I only recommend the small versions of this stand for small tanks under 55 gallons.

Imagitarium Preferred Winston wooden aquarium stand

This rich espresso-colored stand is durably constructed out of solid wood. The flat surface of the top makes it a wonderful option for glass or acrylic aquariums up to 29-gallons in size. It also features a double-door cabinet with an adjustable shelf to accommodate any aquarium supplies.

Inside the concealed cabinet, there are two storage spaces horizontally divided by a wood panel. You can store small aquarium accessories such as fish foods, nets, water test kits, and conditioners… in the cabinet. Remove the center dividing panel in case you have a canister filter or a CO2 supply system and want to hide these obstructive equipment inside the cabinet.

The back wood panel is pre-drilled with two large round holes for hiding electrical outlets and wiring. It is also useful for hosing if you use a canister filter or a sump filtration system.

Imagitarium Brooklyn Metal Tank Stand

The Imagitarium Brooklyn metal aquarium stand is durable and is built out of solid steel. It is coated with an elegant black finish making it moisture-resistant and giving your aquarium a modern look.

Unbox the Imagitarium Brooklyn aquarium standUnbox the Imagitarium Brooklyn aquarium stand #ad

The package comes with two leg assemblies, a top, two steel bars, hex socket screws, and a hex key. It is very easy to assemble the stand with the hex key included. It also comes with adjustable feet, making it quick to level before adding your aquarium.

Easy assembly with a hex keyEasy assembly with a hex key #ad

Levelling feet Levelling feet #ad

This stand is 36-inches long and will easily fit a standard 40-gallon breeding aquarium or a 50-65 gallon tank that is 36 inches long. Other sizes are also available for aquariums from 10-55 gallons.

Aquatic Fundamentals Aquarium Stand with Storage

This contemporary styled aquarium stand is made from dense fiberboard and covered in a black finished melamine laminate. The top is made of one solid piece and will support either glass or acrylic aquariums. Five size options can hold aquariums starting at 29-gallons and up to 90-gallons, making these stands suitable for large fresh or saltwater systems.

Aquatic Fundamentals Aquarium StandAquatic Fundamentals Aquarium Stand #ad

Inside the stand is ample space for various filtration setups and easy storage of other necessary equipment. Which is all easily concealed by either one or two doors (depends on the stand size). The back of the stand is left open with a single support brace, giving easy access to filter tubes and power cords.

Flipper Wildwood 55 Gallon Aquarium Stand

The Ameriwood Home aquarium stand, made from laminated particleboard and MDF, is built to fit glass or acrylic aquariums. It comes with a rusty oak woodgrain finish paired with brushed nickel door handles. The sleek design of this stand is capable of fitting snugly against a wall, giving it a nice three-sided view of your aquarium.

Four-shelf cabinetFour-shelf cabinet #ad

Inside the double door, the cabinet has four shelves, two bottom fixed in place and two higher adjustable, capable of storing all your aquarium supplies. There are blank spaces at the back panel for easy wiring and hosing.

Aqua Culture Deluxe 55 gallon aquarium stand

This stand is made of solid wood, with a powder-coated finish on the top and base. It can fit a standard 55-gallon aquarium or a larger tank that is 48 inches long.

Large storage space Large storage space #ad

It has reversible panels, giving you the option of either a cherry accent or a solid black finish. It also has two hinged doors, allowing easy access to storage space for all the aquarium supplies.

The Aqua Culture Deluxe aquarium stand is a wonderful option for those looking for solid support with a beautiful finish. It would be perfect for a business or home aquarium.

Coralife Designer Biocube Stand for cube tanks

These stands are specifically designed for the Coralife Biocube all-in-one aquarium kits. The 14/16 model stand fits the Coralife Biocube 14/16 aquarium while the 29/32 model fits the Coralife Biocube 29/32. Even so, it would be a great option to showcase a small cube aquarium from other brands. The 14/16 model can be used for a 15-inch cube and the 29/32 model for a 20-inch cube.

It features two tinted glass-paneled doors that open to a spacious storage space with two shelves. The middle panel is adjustable to accommodate a canister filter in the stand. It also has cutouts in the back, making it easy to direct and conceal any power cords and filter hoses. The stand also has sturdy feet to keep it elevated and stable.

Where to locate an aquarium stand?

fish-tank-stand

The location is vital to the safety of the aquarium and its inhabitants over the long run. Be sure you understand where to locate the stand in a proper place. There are a number of considerations to understand when placing the stand.

1. Near a wall

Since water is heavy, the weight will exaggerate floor movement. It is always best to locate a tank near a supporting wall if at all possible. This reduces vibration and movement as much as possible when people move around close to the aquarium. Their weight on an unstable floor can cause a lot of disturbance to the aquarium.

Be aware that the wall itself may radiate either heat or cold depending on the outside conditions and the state of the insulation. In these cases, backing it off the wall a few inches may reduce the influence of the wall radiation on the temperature of the tank – without too many problems from floor movement.

2. Avoid direct sunlight

It is also important that the location chosen for the aquarium does not allow direct sunlight to enter the aquarium. Sunlight will cause excessive growth of algae and should never be allowed to get into the tank. If the sun can get into the back of the tank, that is not difficult to block with a background. If the sun can enter the sides or the front, you will either have to use a background on the side or eliminate the location and find an alternative one.

3. On a level foundation

The floor you choose to place the aquarium system on should be sturdy and level. It is well worth taking the extra few seconds to test using a proper leveler. If the problem is minimal, you can use wood or plastic shims under the aquarium stand legs. If the problem is great, it would probably be best to move the tank to an alternate location with a more level foundation.

4. Away from heating or cooling ducts

The ideal location is away from heating or cooling ducts. The aquarium will be using a heater to maintain a level and even temperature over time. Heating or cooling ducts can play havoc on the setting and can create variations on the temperature that is unhealthy for the fish. By removing any possible influence of ducts, the aquarium will be much better able to maintain the ideal temperature levels over the life of the tank.

5. Electrical safety

It is especially dangerous to place an aquarium near any electrical item. Water and electricity do not mix, so when some water is spilled, the least damage that can be expected would be for the unit to be short-circuited. In the worst-case scenario, it is quite conceivable that a fire could be started.

Accessories for aquarium stands

Aquarium mat

Foam rubber sheet roll, 1/4-inch thickFoam rubber sheet roll, 1/4-inch thick #ad

These mats prevent slips and absorb shock to protect your aquarium. Place them under along your glass aquarium edges to support the entire weight of the tank after filling and prevent breakages.

Leveler

CRAFTSMAN Torpedo LevelCRAFTSMAN Torpedo Level #ad

This leveler is easy to use. It is useful to level your stand as well as find a flat surface to place your aquarium system.

Shims

Composite shimsComposite shims #ad

Use these to level your aquarium stand as well as other home furniture.

Necessary tools

Hex key Hex key #ad

18-in-1 Multi-bit Screwdriver Set Tool18-in-1 Multi-bit Screwdriver Set Tool #ad

Some tools that would be necessary to assemble your aquarium stand would be a hex key, nail gun, screwdriver, and measuring tape…

Paint

Chalk Style Paint for Furniture, Home DecorChalk Style Paint for Furniture, Home Decor #ad

You this paint to seal scratches or repaint an old stand if you want. Choosing a color really comes down to personal preference. You could do a rustic wood finish, all black, or white, it’s really up to you and what you want. Just make sure that the paint will stand up to moisture and normal wear and tear.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I test an aquarium for leakages?

As an old-timer, when the tank can fit in the bathtub, I put the new unit in there and fill it with lukewarm water at least halfway to full and wait for at least an hour to ensure the level remains the same. To be absolutely sure, I mark the outside with a washable marker at the level that I have filled it to. Assuming the tank is allowed to sit between an hour and twenty-four hours, there will be no appreciable evaporation. If the water drops from the mark, you know that there has been some water leakage. If this ever happens, it was very wise to test the aquarium before the tank was located in its final position.

How to assemble an aquarium stand?

Most aquarium stands are shipped knocked down and must be assembled. Carefully follow the aquarium stand assembly instructions. Because this is such an important piece of equipment, this is not a place where you should ever consider skipping any steps. Make sure the resulting stand is solid, and sturdy with no movement in any direction when force is applied.

How to level an aquarium stand?

Level the aquarium to ensure that the top of the water in the aquarium is not slanted or otherwise off-center when the aquarium has been properly filled. This is the first time that a leveler should be used, before the water or any other materials have been added. The tank is as light as it ever will be, so adding shims under the stand is easiest at this point in the process.

What to put under the aquarium stand?

The interface between the fish tank and the stand should be level before the tank is placed upon it. It is well worth taking the extra few seconds to test using a proper leveler. If the problem is minimal, you should be able to shim it to the true level, using wood or plastic shims under the aquarium stand legs. If the problem is great, it would probably be best to move the tank to an alternate location with a more level foundation.

Can a TV stand or bookshelf hold a fish tank?

Do not use a piece of furniture that was not designed specifically to withstand the stresses and strains that an aquarium full of water, decorations, and gravel will place in a very concentrated and compact footprint. Play it safe, use a stand that is made for the aquarium and the weight it offers. However, if you are working with nano fish tanks (under 5 gallons), then a tv stand or small bookshelf top would work just fine.

Wheels under a fish tank stand – smart or stupid?

Wheels under an aquarium can be too risky of tipping, or if on uneven ground, sliding and causing a disaster. They may seem convenient for maintenance but will be more hassle than they are worth.

We enjoy keeping fish, and have for many years. We are trying to promote the hobby as much as possible. We want to see many others succeed in their fish keeping efforts and are committed to sharing our knowledge when we can.

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