Best Fish Tanks for Office Desks

10 Best Fish Tanks for Office Desks for 2024

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Considering the idea of alleviating work stress or simply wanting to lighten up the office ambiance with a aquatic companion? Opting to introduce a fish tank into your space is undoubtedly a wise choice. Nonetheless, incorporating a fish habitat in environments such as offices or dormitories comes with its set of challenges.

The reality is, managing a large aquarium might not be feasible, but there’s a growing trend towards smaller, desktop aquariums as a viable alternative. These compact tanks, often under 10 gallons, are designed to fit conveniently on a work desk, offering a space-saving solution for your aquatic friend.

Choosing the ideal fish tank for your office desk or dorm room might initially seem overwhelming, given the extensive array of customizable options available. The market is flooded with a variety of styles, making it a daunting task to select one that reflects your personal taste and fits your lifestyle.

To simplify your search and assist in making an informed decision, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 fish tanks for office desks for 2024. Continue reading for detailed reviews of each product, carefully selected by our experts.

If you are in a hurry and do not have the time to read to the very end, we simply suggest that you go with our editor’s choice: the Tetra LED cube-shaped 3-gallon aquarium with a pedestal base. This cube-shaped aquarium with an air pump-driven Tetra Whisper power filter is attractive and highly functional for fish to thrive while also adding fun to your working environment.

#1. biOrb Halo Aquarium with MCR Lighting

The first product on our list is the upgraded biOrb Halo Aquarium with MCR lighting that comes with a redesigned air pump for quieter operation in an office environment. It also has color-coordinated lighting cords for a stylish look, along with a new and improved remote design for multi-color lighting.

The sleek and minimalist design of this 4-gallon aquarium adds an air of cheerfulness to the workspace or even the home. Made from sturdy acrylic material, it follows a classic fishbowl design but with a twist. With its hidden water line and 360-degree view, it gives you the illusion of an underwater world floating right there in the middle of your own space.

Product features and specifications

  • Weight: 7.5 lbs.
  • Quick and easy setup
  • Acrylic that is 10 times stronger
  • 5-step filtration system with a filter cartridge included
  • Suitable for fresh and saltwater use

User/Customer Reviews

Many users have said that this small freshwater aquarium helped them add a spark to their otherwise dull workspace. People have also said that this small aquarium is gorgeous and mesmerizing to watch but requires too much maintenance work. A few customers have warned that the filter current is harsh and that changing it releases gross things into the water.

Conclusion

The biOrb Halo aquarium with MCR lighting (shop now) is one of the most beautiful small fish tanks designed in a way to make your office a happier place to work. It comes with a remote control for the lights, a silent air pump, and easy-to-follow installation instructions. Overall, this is one of the best investments you can make.

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#2. Back to the Roots Indoor Garden

Next, we have this complete aquatic ecosystem that pairs a microgreens garden and a self-cleaning fish tank all packed into a compact system that you can keep in your office. This is a fun and easy way to harvest organic microgreens from your aquarium in only 10 days while also enjoying the company of a new aquatic friend.

This water garden allows you to grow fresh and edible plants on the top of the tank as the fish waste fertilizes the plants for growth from the bottom, so the two coexist in harmony. This award-winning ecosystem kit comes with everything that you need to get started and also encourages kids to learn about aquaponic and hydroponic systems.

Product features and specifications

  • 3-gallon capacity
  • Aquaponic and hydroponic systems
  • Award-winning ecosystem
  • Sleek and low maintenance
  • Self-watering planter

User/Customer Reviews

Those who have bought this fish tank have said that they love the idea of teaching kids how aquaponics work and grow plants along with owning a fish. Some users have also said that it adds greenery and fun to their office environment. A few customers had some issues with the pump, but they mentioned that these are easily available in local shops if they need to be replaced or repaired.

Conclusion

This Back to the Roots indoor garden mess-free planter and fish tank duo is a one-of-a-kind arrangement that lets you grow delicious microgreens right along with enjoying the presence of a fish tank in your home or office. Overall, we feel that this purchase is a great buy!

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#3. Aqueon LED MiniBow Aquarium Starter Kits with LED Lighting

Next, we have the Aqueon LED MiniBow aquarium starter kit (shop now), which works perfectly for a betta or other small fish. It comes with a small filtration cartridge, dividers, and food and water care samples. The Aqueon QuietFlow filtration ensures a low-noise operation to keep the office environment undisturbed.

This aquarium features a sleek and low-profile LED, energy-efficient light hood with a feeding hole. It also has an elevated base that gives an extra flair to the design. When the bottom is marked clearly, the divider can also install easily and slide through the provided slots within the aquarium.

Product features and specifications

  • Weight: 3.75 lbs.
  • Sleek and low-profile
  • Elevated base
  • LED, energy-efficient light hood
  • Simple to set up and maintain

User/Customer Reviews

Many users are pleased that they did not have to opt for a boring and simple fishbowl for their first betta and that there was this stylish and attractive option available. Several people have said that this kit gave them everything that they need to get started as a beginner. A few customers have warned that the pump takes up too much space, though.

Conclusion

If you wish to enliven your office space with a new friend, the Aqueon LED MiniBow aquarium starter kit is a good option. The size, appearance, functionality, and operation are just perfect to keep your betta fish happy and keep you feeling cheerful in your office. 

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#4. Koller Products 6-Gallon AquaView 360 Aquarium Kit

When you want the calming and pleasant addition of a fish tank in your office space, you should be sure to check out this 6-gallon AquaView 360 aquarium kit from Koller Products. With energy-efficient LED lighting and seven spectacular color selections, adding this tank your workspace can be a fun and rewarding experience.

This kit features a tank with an impact-resistant construction and a complete filtration system replete with a powerful internal filter to clean and purify the aquarium water. With a water flow rate of 45 gallons per hour, it helps in effectively removing all of the fish waste and debris to keep your aquarium spotless.

Product features and specifications

  • Measurements: 11.5 in. x 11.5 in. x 19.5 in.
  • Weight: 4.5 lbs.
  • Premium filter cartridge
  • Leak-proof
  • Internal power filter
  • Built-in light timer
  • Impact-resistant construction
  • Energy-efficient LED lighting

User/Customer Reviews

There have been some mixed reviews about this product. While most people have been happy with the aesthetic appeal of this tank, there are some who have complained about the lights. However, if you follow the directions carefully during installation, you will often be fine. A few users have also warned that you will need to buy some filter bags because it comes only with one.

Conclusion

The 6-gallon AquaView 360 aquarium kit is a complete system that brings a lot of relaxation and beauty to your office space. It is easy to set up and looks great when done so perfectly. However, you must make sure that you follow the instructions closely to avoid any hiccups along the way. Overall, we feel that this product is a good deal.

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#5. Tetra LED Cube Shaped 3 Gallon Aquarium with Pedestal Base

This Tetra LED cube-shaped, 3-gallon aquarium is next in line, and we were impressed by its attractive appearance and compact design. This stylish fish tank is perfect for housing tiny friends like goldfish, betta fish, guppies, or even small tropical fish.

This aquarium kit comes equipped with an air pump-driven Tetra Whisper power filter that helps in keeping the tank healthy and clean for your pet fish. There is a hole in the canopy or lid for easy feeding of the fish, too. This tank’s setup is also equipped with LED lights to highlight the fish, and it also includes a pedestal base for improved stability.

Product features and specifications

  • Weight: 4.41 lbs.
  • 3-gallon cube aquarium
  • Tetra(R) Whisper Bio-Bag Small Cartridge
  • Low voltage power adapter
  • Whisper(R) power filter
  • LED light

User/Customers Review

People love this tank’s clear glass construction that gives a pleasing and panoramic view of the underwater habitat. Users love the fact that this kit is safe and reliable for years to come, too. Some customers have warned that the pump is not too great and you may need to invest in some upgrades to make it look better, however.

Conclusion

The Tetra LED cube-shaped, 3-gallon aquarium with a pedestal base is a nice and attractive fish tank for your office. However, you may need to make a few upgrades to ensure that the aquarium looks nice and functions well, too. Overall, we feel that this product offers a good price-to-performance ratio.

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#6. Penn-Plax Aquaponic Betta Fish Tank 

If you wish to add a bit of greenery with a built-in “underground” tank to your office space, you should make sure that you check out this Penn-Plax Aquaponic betta fish tank. Made from ultra-clear plastic, this 0.5-gallon aquaponic fish tank gives you a nice symbiotic environment for both fish and plants.

You can add some indoor plants to the top to have a great plant-and-fish combination for your workspace. A few good options for plants that work will in this setup are lucky bamboo, Chinese evergreen, mint, English ivy, watercress, or chives. The tank is easy to set up and maintain, and you only need to partially change the water just once per week to keep the aquarium healthy.

Product features and specifications

  • 0.5-gallon aquaponic fish tank and planter
  • Ceramic planting media
  • Black planting lid
  • Made of plastic

User/Customer Reviews

There have been some mixed reviews about this fish tank. While some think that it’s perfect for an office environment, others feel that it’s too small for fish and would be more suitable for somethings like a snail instead. A few customers have also said that unlike what the manufacturers recommend, it is better to change the water at least twice a week.

Conclusion

The Penn-Plax Aquaponic betta fish tank is cute, functional, and exactly as described by the seller. It can be used for both indoor plants and fish, which makes this unit extremely beautiful and sustainable. Overall, we feel that this fish tank is exactly what you might want to enliven your office space.

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#7. biOrb Flow Aquarium

Made from acrylic—which is 10 times stronger than glass and 50% lighter, with a 93% transparency rating—this biOrb Flow aquarium is an ideal choice for keeping small fish or shrimp as pets. It uses an air-driven filtration system that creates dynamic water flow and a constantly changing water surface.

The biOrb Flow aquarium features a true 5-stage filtration system which includes biological filtration, chemical filtration, mechanical filtration, water stabilization, and oxygenation. The circular flow of the water accumulates the fish waste and draws the waste through the ceramic media, and the freshly oxygenated water feeds the beneficial bacteria.

Product features and specifications

  • Weight: 7 lbs.
  • Operates via a 12V transformer
  • Constructed from acrylic material
  • 5-stage filtration process
  • 2-year warranty
  • Standard LED light unit

User/Customer Reviews

Most users love the fact that this fish tank has a compact design with easy feeding access for the fish or shrimp. Some people have said that the setup process is easy, with all parts provided in the kit, and the maintenance also low. A few customers have warned that the filter requires regular cleaning, so this is something you should consider before buying this particular model.

Conclusion

The biOrb Flow aquarium (see more) is a cute and attractive-looking fish tank with everything you would expect to have in a large and colorful aquarium. This mini version of what you always dreamt of is perfect to adorn your office desk. All in all, this is the perfect size and style to add some freshness to your work front.

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#8. Aqueon LED MiniBow Kit with SmartClean Technology

The Aqueon LED MiniBow Kit is an intelligent fish tank that comes equipped with SmartClean technology that makes water changing possible in less than just two minutes. The ease and efficiency of this unique cleaning system helps in improving the quality of water to give your fish friends a happy and healthy environment.

This kit has everything needed for a complete setup, and this includes an aquarium, a power filter, a hood, an elevated base, some fish food, a small filter cartridge, some water conditioner, and a setup guide. This tank works best for office desks and is perfectly suited for both first-time and experienced fish keepers.

Product features and specifications

  • Weight: 3.75 lbs.
  • SmartClean technology
  • Great home for small fish
  • Maintains healthy and optimal water quality
  • Uses Aqueon replacement cartridges

User/Customer Reviews

People have said that this is a wonderful desktop kit for beginners that will help you learn the basics of healthy, life-sustaining aquatic environments. Users have also mentioned that it requires very little maintenance and the water changing is a breeze, making it perfect for those who are busy but still want an aquarium of their own.

Conclusion

The Aqueon LED MiniBow Kit includes a well-made fish tank for beginners as well as those who are experienced fish keepers. As desktop aquariums, they are perfect for work desks, home offices, bedrooms, and even living rooms that do not have too much space. Overall, we feel that this product delivers exactly as promised.

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#9. AquaSprouts Garden, Self-Sustaining Desktop Aquarium Aquaponics Ecosystem Kit

We again bring you a wonderful combination of indoor gardening and a fish tank all rolled into one kit, this time known as the AquaSprouts Garden. This is a simple, almost maintenance-free, and freestanding indoor garden system for anyone that wants to experience fish and plants coexisting and thriving together.

We love the fact that this 10-gallon desktop aquarium eliminates the need for any traditional fertilizers and uses similar principles that recycle waste in natural ecosystems. The garden attachment can easily fit any standard 10-gallon aquarium, including fitting onto any existing tanks you may have.

Product features and specifications

  • Weight: 24 lbs.
  • Simple and freestanding
  • Virtually maintenance-free
  • Fits 10-gallon aquariums
  • Grow your favorite veggies
  • 1-year limited warranty


User/Customer Reviews

Most users have called this a fun and interesting project, but just like any project, this can also get a little frustrating if you are a beginner. However, if you are consistent about learning and are willing to learn more about this setup, you will soon be enjoying a nice little aquarium and indoor garden in your home. A few customers have warned that this is a time-consuming and expensive project, though.


Conclusion

The AquaSprouts Garden is a perfectly sustainable desktop aquarium that helps you learn the basics of aquaponics and enjoy a rewarding outcome. The setup is easy, and the unit works great. However, please bear in mind that this may not be a viable option for beginners looking for a simple tank setup just for fun. Overall, though, this pairing is a good deal.

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#10. Lightahead LED Mini Desktop Fantasy Fish Lamp with Color Changing Light Effects

Last but not the least, what could be better than being able to immerse yourself in the peace of the ocean right within the confines of your office environment? This compact desktop simulation aquarium feels so realistic that you get the sensory stimulation of having real aquatic companions, along with color-changing effects and a soothing deep-sea ambiance, without the hassle of maintaining a real fish tank.

This amazing LED mini desktop fish lamp consists of three pieces and a quiet motor that does not make any noise. It brings animated marine life and colorful LED lighting to any part of your home, office, or living room without burdening you with the work of a real tank. This hassle-free aquarium will relax, sooth, and help give you feelings of calm.

Product features and specifications

  • Great sensory stimulation
  • Color-changing effects   
  • Compact desktop version
  • No hassle, cleaning, or maintenance required

User/Customer Reviews

Most people have said that they are thoroughly enjoying this purchase and that it works great whether you keep it on your office desk or in your bedroom. Some people have also mentioned that you can easily buy rechargeable batteries rather than worrying about buying replacements when they run low. Users also love the fact that this unit does not make any noise.

Conclusion

The Lightahead LED mini desktop fish lamp (shop now) is exactly what you need to calm your nerves or just feel better at any time of the day. The colorful lights and the cute fish will keep you and your pets entertained for hours. It is compact enough to keep on your work desk, and the quiet operation ensures that there is no disturbance whatsoever. Overall, this tank substiture is a great purchase.

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Best Fish Tanks for Office Desks: Buying Guide

While a fish tank on your office desk or elsewhere in your home office adds a lot of positive energy and brings good luck to the space, you must be sure to make note of a few things before committing yourself to this investment. First, avoid fishbowls at all costs because they do not provide enough oxygen to the fish. In some cases, they also cause distorted images, leading to stress occurring in betta fish.

After you choose one of the 10 top fish tanks for office desks, let’s move on to selecting the most suitable fish for the aquarium.

Betta (Siamese Fighting Fish)

The most popular choice for any fish enthusiast is betta fish, as they are low-maintenance and display a majestic show of brilliant colors. However, please remember that they survive best when they are the only fish in a small aquarium.

Guppies

The next most suitable option is guppies, and these come in a wide array of colors, including neon. These are also inexpensive and low-maintenance fish to care for. However, if you do not want a bunch of guppies breeding in your tank, be sure to only have males.

Mollies

Mollies are another interesting variety that come from four different regions: the southeastern United States, South America, the Gulf of Mexico, and Central America. These survive best in a well-planted tank with sand at the bottom.

Endler’s Livebearers

These are very similar to guppies, but they have brilliant color patterns. Additionally, they may also have double swordtails. This breed does best when they are in groups of three or more. They prefer a well-planted area or secluded places to hide.

White Cloud Minnows

These fish originate from the Pearl River in China, and they are one of the most preferred choices of fish among fish tank lovers. However, you’ll need to keep in mind that these fish have a big appetite and need to be fed on live prey, greenery, and pellet foods twice a day.

Neon Tetras

These fish originate in the Amazon basin of South America. They look cute with small brilliant flashes of red and blue color. Although they are perfectly suitable for a tank environment, these fish are highly susceptible to changes in their environment and are very delicate in their first week in a new place.

Related Questions

How do you clean a fish tank on an office desk?

We suggest that you remove any kind of synthetic décor from your tank and scrub it gently with hot water and a toothbrush. You can also clean the glass using a glass scrub that is acrylic-safe. Be sure to remove any filter media and rinse it gently or squeeze it into a bucket to collect the wastewater. Place your cleaned items back into the tank, and your fish should be in a much cleaner space for a week or two longer.

How often should fish tank water be changed?

If you have a fish tank, you should do weekly water changes of about 10% to 15% of the tank’s water each time. If there are too many items in your tank or multiple fish, weekly changes of about 20% of the tank’s water may be required. For tanks that aren’t quite as full and less likely to get messy as quick, you can do wait about two weeks before doing a water change, but you ideally should not go much longer than that to avoid causing your fish to become highly stressed.

How long can tank fish go without eating?

In a healthy aquarium, the fish can go about three days to a week without eating anything. However, it is recommended that you do not let your fish go more than a day or two without feeding them unless absolutely necessary.

How do I stop my fish tank from stinking?

If, for any reason, the fish tank smells bad, you can wipe down the glass, clean the substrate, prune the dead leaves, clean the rocks and decorations, clean the inflow and outlet, perform a water change, and rinse the filter to remove any trapped gunk. Regular tank maintenance should reduce and of the associated smells of having a fish tank.

Do fish tanks stink up a room?

This is not a common occurrence because most aquariums do not create a very overpowering odor. However, if you feel that you are able to smell a stench, it’s likely that the tank needs cleaning and some maintenance work.

Where should you not put a fish tank?

You must avoid keeping a fish tank near a fireplace or any other heat source, which can increase the water temperature higher than the suggested 76°F to 80°F for tropical fish and 74° F for goldfish. Always be sure to keep your tank in an area where the temperature can be safely regulated to keep your fish happy and healthy.