Sponge filters have long been favored by both novice and experienced aquarists due to their affordability, ease of cleaning and durability. The consistent bubbling ensures proper water circulation and surface agitation while remaining gentle enough to avoid trapping fish fry, shrimp and other slow-moving organisms. Besides that, the beneficial bacteria on the sponge remain in oxygenated tank water during power outages to increase their chances of survival. You can even purchase a battery pack backup compatible with our USB air pump for emergency situations.
Whether used independently or to enhance existing filtration, sponge filters offer numerous advantages such as increased surface area for beneficial bacteria, simple setup and operation while low cost. In this guide, we will help you find the perfect sponge filter for your needs. Here are the top 7 best sponge filters for aquarium in Malaysia.
Are Sponge Filters Good for Aquariums?
Sponge filters are ideal for situations requiring safe and delicate filtration like in a fry tank where young fish may be drawn into the intake of conventional filters. Fish specie, such as bettas which struggle in strong currents can also greatly benefit from the use of sponge filters.
When Should I Replace My Sponge?
You can clean the sponge using aquarium water every 2 weeks. In addition, you can replace the sponge with any brand and just cut it to the appropriate size. Bio balls should be cleaned every two months and partially replaced every six months with only ⅓ being replenished at once.
7 Best Sponge Filters for Aquarium in Malaysia 2025
1. Qanvee QS 100A Bio Sponge Air Driven Filter
The Qanvee Bio Sponge Filter is a versatile filtration device designed for shrimp or fish tanks. It combines mechanical, chemical and biological filtration methods to create clean water. It produces greater air output, finer foam and reduced noise with its optimized outlet piping design. Furthermore, It is made from environmentally friendly and food-grade plastic.
Specifications:
- Recommend Tank Size: 60cm or above
- Sponge diameter: 48 mm
- Sponge height: 84 mm
Pros:
✅ More quite
✅ Environmentally friendly
✅ Elegant design
Price: RM15.99
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
2. XY-2831 Bio Sponge Filter
XY-2831 Bio Sponge Filter is ideal for shrimp tanks since it provides biological filtration and a safe grazing area for shrimp to feed on biofilm. Baby shrimp won’t be sucked into the filter with the small pores.
Specifications:
- Recommend Tank Size: 5 – 10 Gallons
- Sponge diameter: 47 mm
- Sponge height: 78 mm
Pros:
✅ Suitable for shrimps
✅ Small size
✅ Biological filtration
Price: RM4.10
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
3. Water Fairy Aquarium Ultra Thin Filter YX-300
This Water Fairy Aquarium Ultra Thin Filter YX-300 is made from plastic and designed to improve water dissolved oxygen levels. Its ultra-thin design makes it perfect for small tanks without obstructing the aquarium view. However, it requires an air pump (not included) for operation.
Specifications:
- Recommend Tank Size: 35 – 50 cm
Pros:
✅ Improve water dissolved oxygen
✅ Ultra thin design
✅ Suitable for small tank
Price: RM10.14
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
4. Crab Aqua Aquarium Bio Sponge Filter
Crab Aqua’s sponge filter offers high efficiency with its bio sponge and external space for additional bio rings. The expandable output tube accommodates different aquarium heights that makes it convenient to use. It is safe for fish fry and sick fish, the sponge filter won’t cause harm by sucking them in. Please note that this filter must be used in conjunction with an air pump or water pump.
Specifications:
- Recommend Tank Size: Up to 20 Gallons
- Sponge height: max. 290 mm
Pros:
✅ Expandable Bio Sponge Filter
✅ Extra space for bio rings
✅ High efficiency bio sponge
Price: RM20.00
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
5. XY-2881 Bio Sponge Filter
XY-2881 Bio Sponge Filter prevents the buildup of large sediment particles and removes some organic matter to ensure stable water quality. This quiet aquarium filter offers an enhanced biofiltration system, absorbing harmful substances and increasing oxygen levels. The filter comes with two fixed suction cups for quick installation and secure attachment.
Specifications:
- Recommend Tank Size: 5L
Pros:
✅ Excellent Filtering Effect
✅ Increase oxygen
✅ Non-toxic high quality plastic
Price: RM13.00
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
6. Dophin SF15 Nano Sponge Filter
DoPhin SF15 Nano Sponge Filter is a top-notch biological filtering system perfect for aquarium fish and fish fries. This filter requires an air pump for pressure supply and circulation. It designed for use in freshwater environments and the sponge can be replaced regularly to maintain optimal performance.
Specifications:
- Recommend Tank Size: 5 – 10 Gallons
- Sponge diameter: 47 mm
- Sponge height: 78 mm
Pros:
✅ Oil free
✅ Friendly to sensitive skin
✅ Improve skin clarity
Price: RM11.28
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
7. XINYOU Bio-Sponge Ceramic Filter XY-2008
XINYOU Bio-Sponge Ceramic Filter XY-2008 guarantees clean and stable water quality by effectively filtering oxygen and water. Its ultra-fine filter holes efficiently remove harmful bacteria and suspended solids to ensure crystal clear water. The filter promotes increased oxygen levels to help fish thrive and survive in the tank.
Specifications:
- Recommend Tank Size: 20 Gallons
Pros:
✅ Good water quality stability
✅ Filter harmful bacteria
✅ Keep the water clean
Price: RM12.00
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
Disclosure: This list was compiled by the team at My Weekend Plan after extensive research and shared opinions to suggest helpful recommendations for the public. The sequence of brands is in no particular order so if you have any other great suggestions too, please email us support@myweekendplan.asia. For more information, kindly refer to our copyright, privacy & disclosure policy.
