When it comes to choosing the best small aquarium heater there are several key factors to keep in mind, and with so many models of submersible aquarium heaters available on the market it can be difficult to know just what to look out for!
In this article...
From glass heaters to titanium, there is certain to be a model out there to help you reach your desired temperature in your aquarium. We compiled a list of the best small aquarium heaters to help you find the ideal heater for your tank…
- Comes in a variety of wattages
- TruTemp dial for adjusting the heat
- Automatically turns off when the water level is too low
- Indicator light
- Evenly distributed heating wire
- Adjustable range from 68-93 degrees
- Durable titanium construction
- Fully automated control system
- Wide range of options available
If you’re currently in the market for a submersible aquarium heater, read on to find out our recommendations for the best available options for your 10 gallon tank heater…
The Best From The Reviews
Here are the top 3 best small aquarium heaters from our list…
Eheim Jager Aquarium Thermostat Heater
One of the most popular options on the market! Fully submersible, with an automated stop and start mechanism and TruTemp dial for precise calibration.
Top Pick: Eheim Jager Aquarium Thermostat Heater
An excellent option for the smaller 10 gallon tanks. It can even work as a heater for a 20-gallon tank. This submersible aquarium heater model comes with a shatterproof outer casing surrounding the entire construction, allowing for better heat distribution.
Also includes an automated on and off, along with a thermo-safety mechanism so that it will power down when removed from the water.
HITOP Adjustable Aquarium Heater
The highest value for the lowest dollar on our list! Comes with an indicator light, adjustable knob, and automated shut-off for control.
Best Value: HITOP Adjustable Aquarium Heater
With an adjustable temperature range of 68-93 degrees, automated shut-off function, and built-in thermometer, this model comes with all of the convenient features of more expensive options at a fraction of the price.
These titanium aquarium heaters come with several premium features not found on other options, such as a full titanium construction and LED display temperature control.
Editor’s Choice: Hygger Titanium Water Heater
These titanium small aquarium heaters come with several premium features not found on other options, such as a full titanium construction and LED display temperature control.
On To The Reviews…
One of the most popular options on the market! Fully submersible, with an automated stop and start mechanism and TruTemp dial for precise calibration
Best Overall: Eheim Jager Aquarium Heater
An excellent option for the small tank market. This model comes with shatter-proof glass surrounding the entire construction, allowing for even heat distribution.
Also includes an automated on and off, along with a thermo-safety mechanism so that it will power down when removed from the water.
Thermo-Safety Mechanism
Includes an on-board safety setting so that it will automatically shut down upon being removed from the water. The handy feature keeps it from ‘running-dry’ and draining power when not actually in use.
Construction
Made of shatterproof glass material, this model is meant to withstand impact and daily usage. The glass covering also provides a more even heating distribution and is resistant to chemical and biological substances. This quality heater attaches with a suction cup to the side of your tank.
Downsides
Some models may have issues with resetting or turning off heat at the appropriate time, leading to potential overheating or unevenness of heat.
This can be a major problem in your aquarium, as a sudden rise in heat can lead to severe shock if not death for your fish.
Specs
- Temperature range: 65-93 degrees Fahrenheit
- Available Wattage range from 50-300W for larger aquariums
Pros
- TruTemp dial for adjusting the heat
- Automatically turns off when the water level is too low
- Comes in a variety of wattages to best suit your tank’s needs
Cons
- Potential for overheating
- Customer service and quality control may be an issue
HITOP Adjustable Aquarium Heater
The highest value for the lowest dollar on our list! Comes with an indicator light, adjustable knob, and automated shut-off for control.
Best Value: HITOP Adjustable Aquarium Heater
With an adjustable temperature range of 68-93 degrees, automated shut-off function, and built-in thermometer, this model comes with all of the convenient features of more expensive options at a fraction of the price.
Quality of Life Features
For a relatively simple package, this model comes complete with an accurate temperature control and automated shut-off features.
The range of accuracy is within +/-2 degrees, meaning you have an excellent level of control over the water temperature of your tank.
Automated shut off means that the device will save power when not in use as well. Attached via suction cups.
Affordability
Even the higher-wattage designs of this model come at a small portion of the price of their competitors.
Even with that, you still get the well-made components and quality of life features needed to keep your tank heat at a constant level.
Durability
There may be some durability issues with this small aquarium heater.
Some issues with the glass breaking have led to potential damage to their aquarium and harm to tropical fish.
Specs
- Available Wattage range: 25-300W
- Temperature range: 68-93 degrees Fahrenheit
Pros
- Indicator light to show when it is heating
- Adjustable range from 68-93 degrees Fahrenheit
- Evenly distributed heating wire for maximum heat dispersion
Cons
- Some durability issues
- Smaller range of temperatures than some models
Hygger Titanium Aquarium Heater
These titanium aquarium heaters come with several premium features not found on other options, such as a full titanium construction and LED display temperature control.
Editor’s Choice: Hygger Titanium Aquarium Heater
With a full-body titanium construction for maximum durability, LED display screen with computer calibrated thermostat, and incredibly wide temperature range, this model is our choice for when budget is no option for your 10 gallon tanks.
This 10 gallon tank heater model will be sure to last several years of use, and more than makes up for the price tag with function and consistent temperature control.
Fully Automatic Control
Complete with an aquarium water temperature remembering setting, this model allows for precise temperature maintenance in your aquarium.
Simply set temperature to your preferred exact temperature setting and it will do the rest, shutting off and turning on as conditions change in your aquarium.
Can be attached to the aquarium using the provided suction cups.
Broad Temperature Range
The Hygger Titanium Heater has the widest range of any of our submersible aquarium heater models for your 10 gallon tank.
From 32 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit, this small aquarium heater is incredibly accurate for both the set temperature and the current tank temperature, with a +/-.2 degree accuracy, allowing you to reach your ideal temperature with ease.
Display
The Hygger Titanium Heater comes with an LED temperature display, making discerning the right temperature a breeze for your tank. This computer calibrated thermostat shows its own temperature as well as the current temperature in the aquarium.
Downsides
There may be issues with this submersible heater in its ability to maintain the right temperature, and I’ve noticed that the external controller may not be as accurate as advertised.
Specs
- Heater Wattage availability: 50-500W
- Temperature range: 32-104 degrees Fahrenheit
Pros
- Durable titanium construction
- Fully automated control system, just set temperature and forget
- Wide range of options for reaching your desired water temperature
Cons
- May have some quality control issues
- More expensive than other models on our list
This small aquarium heater blends into the surrounding environment thanks to a built-in reflective technology that helps it match the colors around it.
Fluval M Submersible Heater
The Fluval M Submersible Heater is a great choice for aquarists looking for the subtle approach to reaching their desired temperature.
Reflective Technology
Has a specific reflective inner that allows this small heater to match the color of its surroundings. Makes for a great option when you’re looking at small aquarium heaters that won’t disturb the natural look of your 10 gallon tank.
Durable Construction
Made of a shock resistant quartz glass material, this small aquarium heater should be able to provide efficient heating for many years. Additionally, it comes backed with a 3 year warranty.
Electronic Thermostat
Comes with an onboard automated thermostat to provide an accurate temperature for your 10 gallon tank.
Temperature Range
With a slightly lower range of temperatures from 66-86 degrees Fahrenheit, this heating element doesn’t quite pack as much punch as other models in this list. Additionally, some folks with very small tanks have reported it as being slightly too large for their aquarium.
Specs
- Temperature Range: 66-86 degrees Fahrenheit
- One piece structure with several different sizes of entrances
Pros
- 3 year warranty
- Made of shock resistant borosilicate glass
- Reflective technology to blend in to your aquarium
Cons
- May be slightly larger than the size indicates
- Wattage range from 50-200W based on model
The Aqueon Aquarium Heater comes with a precise temperature setting, light indicator, and multiple orientation options for customization per your tank.
Aqueon Pro Adjustable Heater
This Aqueon Pro Aquarium Heater comes with a precise temperature setting, light indicator, and multiple orientation options for customization per your tank.
Multiple Orientation Options
You can position this submersible heater horizontally or vertically, depending on which suits the layout of your aquarium best.
This allows for maximum heat dissipation if you have a setup with objects that may be in the way normally such as filters or plants.
Light Indicator
As with all of the best aquarium heaters, this heating element comes with an easy to read indicator. When your small tank has reached the desired temperature, the light switches to green. The heater will then shut off until the water temperature needs to be raised once more.
Downsides
I do, however, have concerns that over time the accuracy and temperature control of this submersible small aquarium heater becomes less reliable. It is, however, covered by a limited lifetime warranty.
Specs
- Available only in 50W
- Temperature range: 68-88 degrees Fahrenheit
Pros
- Multiple orientation options
- Heating cable protected by a durable, non-corrosive shell casing
- Light indicator switches from red to green upon reaching desired temperature
Cons
- After several years of use, the heater wattage may be less reliable. This is normal for most devices, but still not desirable in the long-term.
Hygger Mini Inline Quartz Heater
This line of submersible aquarium heaters is a good heater for small tanks, with its compact size and durable quartz glass construction.
Hygger Mini Inline Quartz Heater
The Hygger Mini submersible heater can work great for saltwater or freshwater aquariums of a smaller size, and provides better heat dissipation than many other models.
This differs from the larger Hygger titanium with a smaller construction and quartz glass, rather than titanium being utilized. It won’t take up too much space due to its compact size, making it perfect for small fish tanks.
Durable Construction
Constructed of a durable quartz glass, the Hygger Mini is designed for long term use for your freshwater or saltwater fish.
From a reef tank to planted freshwater systems, this submersible heater tube will keep your aquarium water at the desired temp for years to come.
External Controller
Paired with a thermometer in the submersible heater itself, the external controller allows you to change your temperature without need for removal from your tank.
These external controllers are very convenient for not disturbing the fish in your tank while still being able to monitor exactly what is going on inside.
Temperature
This particular model does seem to have trouble with reaching and staying at the higher end of the stated heater capacity spectrum in the product specifications.
Specs
- Temperature range: 68-90 degrees Fahrenheit
- Available in either a 50W or 100W option for larger tanks
Pros
- Durable quartz glass construction
- Includes an LED light on/off indicator
- Comes with an external controller for outside temperature adjustment
Cons
- May have issues with reliability in your aquarium environment
- There may be some difficulty reaching the warmer temperatures on its range
Does A 10 gallon Aquarium Need A Heater?
Depending on the needs of your fish, an aquarium heater may be necessary.
If you have tropical fish for instance, and require temperatures greater than what you are able to reach naturally in your home, choosing from among the best aquarium heaters previously listed may be the way to go.
What Size Heater For A 10 Gallon Tank?
As a good general rule of thumb for a 10 gallon tank, I recommend a 50W heater.
Anything above this is overkill for such a small tank, and may in fact lead to issues with overheating.
What Wattage Heater For A 10 Gallon Tank?
As mentioned previously, a 50W heater is best for a 10 gallon tank.
This will ensure that you keep your fish healthy and safe, without fear of overwhelming them with heat.
Heat shock can be a serious issue in many aquariums, and can lead to higher rates of disease and infection in affected fish.
Useful Features to Look Out For
Most of the models on this list have one or two features that make them stand out. Issues such as price versus durability and ease of use are the main factors to weigh between different choices.
The Einham Jager strikes a nice middle ground, while the slightly more expensive Hygger Titanium is made of more durable, longer lasting materials.
Durable Materials
Stronger outer casing materials such as titanium and quartz tend to last a bit longer. Tempered or treated glasses can be quite strong or virtually shatterproof, but nothing compares to a welded or solid material.
Display Options
Whether LED or classic dial, there are a few different options when it comes to how you view the temperature.
Some options have an external display unit that will provide both the temperature in the tank itself and on the heating unit, while others may be slightly less easy to discern.
Where Does The Heater Go In A 10 Gallon Tank?
For most aquarium heaters, the inside of the tank along the wall is the best place to install your heater. Most of these options come with provided suction cups that you simply stick to the inside of your tank and are attached to the small heater unit.
As for positioning, many of these options can function in either the horizontal or vertical position, but tend to function better vertically. Placing them near filter inlet/outlets or pumps where the maximum water flow is will help with the temperature of the tank.
Here’s a helpful video about placement of aquarium heaters.
Hood or Glass Canopy
Using a hood can help maintain the temperature by keeping the heat inside the aquarium. It can also help keep fish safe by keeping them from jumping out.
Conclusion
I hope that you’ve enjoyed these reviews of different small aquarium heaters available on the market today. While there are a lot of options out there, some heaters are definitely better than others when it comes to features.
Some of my favorite models have an LED temperature display, thermal protection circuitry to keep your system safe underwater, and are made of durable materials such as titanium or quartz.
If you still haven’t decided, here are my top 3 best small aquarium heaters.
- Comes in a variety of wattages
- TruTemp dial for adjusting the heat
- Automatically turns off when the water level is too low
- Indicator light
- Evenly distributed heating wire
- Adjustable range from 68-93 degrees
- Durable titanium construction
- Fully automated control system
- Wide range of options available
Best Overall
An excellent option for the smaller 10 gallon tanks. This model comes with a shatterproof outer casing surrounding the entire construction, allowing for better heat distribution.
Also includes an automated on and off, along with a thermo-safety mechanism so that it will power down when removed from the water.
Best Value
With an adjustable temperature range of 68-93 degrees, automated shut-off function, and built-in thermometer, this submersible aquarium heater comes with all of the convenient features of more expensive options at a fraction of the price.
Editor’s Choice
With a full-body titanium construction for maximum durability, LED display screen with computer calibrated thermostat, and incredibly wide temperature range, this model is our choice for when budget is no option for your 10 gallon tanks.
This model will be sure to last several years of use, and more than makes up for the price tag with function and consistent temp control.
Thanks for Reading!
I hope you’ve found this article helpful in choosing the best 10 gallon tank heater for you.
As always feel free to share this article with any other fish fanatics you know, and I wish you the best of luck on your continued aquarium adventures.
