Fluval 3 Plus vs external filter

[peppermint]

Hi!!

I have both a fluval 3 plus filter & an older external filter that hangs on the side of the aquarium. I am only using the fluval 3 plus filter for now. I own a 20 gallon aquarium with just 4 fancy guppies (for now) and about 15 babies in a net.

My question is:
Which filter is better?

My concern:
The fluval 3 Plus filter doesn't seem to suction as much as the external filter that I once had. It is good in a way because it doesn't suck up the baby guppies swimming around but is it doing its job properly compared to the external filter?

Thanks so much!

 

[mfdrookie516]

well the 3 is rated for up to 34 gallons, but to answer your question, we'll need to know what the HOB is. It could really go either way

 

[peppermint]

HOB meaning?

The external filter I have (don't remember the brand) is supposed to work for up to 30 gallons too.

 

[mfdrookie516]

HOB= Hang on Back Filter, the other one you're talking about. It really depends on what the brand is. if it is an aquaclear filter, imo, it will do a better job than the internal. if its not an aquaclear, i'd say you're probably better off with the internal. If you have a high bioload, you should run both of them though

 

[peppermint]

Yes that's the name! AquaClear 30 is the HBO I own.

Before I go and buy media & change. Wondering what are the reasons that make it better while it's much much cheaper than the fluval one.

Thank you!

 

[CA_BroncoFan]

I wouldnt even bother with the fluval, just go out and get an aquaclear 50, itll be just fine unless your bioload is crazy.