Equipment Review and Discussion :: filter question - Rena xP3 vs. Fluval 405

[TurtleKeeper48]

New turtle keeper here - another newb question.

I'm looking to set up a 75 gal tank as a temp home for two turtles, so I want a really good filter. (I wish it was their final home - but I'm still going to be undersized in a 75... but it's all I can do for a little while)

I've been reading up on canister filters, and I see a lot of love for the Fluval filters. I've been looking up specs and prices and I've found the following info:

Fluvol 405 - 225 gph and aprox $200

Rena xP3 - 350 gph and aprox $160

...So, I see more gph with the Rena, and a lower price. Seems to me like a lot of bang for the buck -BUT everywhere I look I see people saying "buy Fluvol".

Please explain / comment / advise. I'm very confused. Thank you.

[Caphits]

I found a great link on the internet. http://tinyurl.com/lrzcj5

[TurtleKeeper48]

I found a great link on the internet. http://tinyurl.com/lrzcj5

Thanks?

Ya know, I did a search on the web, and of this site, and I thought I had a pretty specific question. (one is cheaper and rated for more GPH - yet the other seem to get recomended more often - why?)

...so, sorry if it was a dumb question.

[Caphits]

No, its not a dumb question. It is just one that has been asked alot.

I think it is more recommended because it is a better brand name.

[papoopeepoo]

I haven't used either filter so you can disregard this if you like. My two cents go as follows:

Fluval is reliable, well designed, practical, and their filters do a very good job from what I've experienced.

[BullDog]

I looked up exactly the same thing a few years ago.
One site I came across said that Rena is pretty generous with it's gph rating. Once both filters are filled with media, they've got almost the same gph.

Myself, I went for a Fluval 404, because I got a good deal on a used one at the time.

Since then, I've upgraded to a Fluval FX5 in my 75 gallon. I really love it. If you can afford it, I would recommend going for an FX5. You should be able to find them on ebay for $220-240.

[mike hill]

Turt-keep48 You need to exchange your water at least 5 times per hour. Both filters are marginal. I would suggest something larger to keep the tank clean. Good Luck! m.

[jozzep]

I would recommend going for an FX5. You should be able to find them on ebay for $220-240.

FX5 is the ferrari of fish tank canister filters........

[steve]

Hey Caphits, you don't need to be snide in a first reply to a question.

I'll take the XP3 over the Fluval due to a personal opinion, though the FX5 certainly has changed things up. I think someone posted a link to fish forum indicating the FX5 had high failure rates though I don't think users on this forum have reported anything similar.