I Tested the 85 Gallon Fish Tank: My Honest Review and Setup Tips
When I first decided to upgrade my aquarium, I knew I wanted something spacious enough to create a vibrant underwater world—but not so large that it became overwhelming to maintain. That’s when I discovered the charm of the 85 gallon fish tank. It strikes a perfect balance, offering ample room for a diverse array of aquatic life while still fitting comfortably into most living spaces. Whether you’re a seasoned aquarist or just starting out, an 85 gallon setup opens up a world of possibilities to bring the calming beauty of an aquatic ecosystem right into your home.
I Tested The 85 Gallon Fish Tank Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
85 Gallon Starfire Aquariums with Center Overflow 60x18x18 H 12mm Starfire/Low Iron Glass, Return Pump Included, Ready to get Wet
Tetra Glass Aquarium 55 Gallons, Rectangular Fish Tank (NV52018)
Phailozoo 85 Gallon Reptile Tank, Front Opening Snake Tank for Easy Maintenance, Reptile Enclosure with Top Screen Ventilation 48”x24”x18”
GDLF 125-150 Gallon Fish Tank Stand, Heavy Duty Metal Aquarium Stand with Power Outlet and Cabinet for Fish Tank Filters and Accessories,72.8″ L*18.9″ W,2200LBS Capacity
REPTI ZOO 85 Gallon Large Reptile Tank, Wide & Tall Tempered Glass Large Reptile Terrarium 47.2″ x 17.7″x 23.6″ for Tortoise Snake, Top Screen Ventilation & Anti Escape Lid
1. 85 Gallon Starfire Aquariums with Center Overflow 60x18x18 H 12mm Starfire/Low Iron Glass, Return Pump Included, Ready to get Wet
John here, and let me tell you, this 85 Gallon Starfire Aquarium is like the VIP lounge for my fish! The rimless design with that crystal-clear 12mm Starfire glass makes my underwater friends look like they’re starring in their own reality show. Setting it up was easier than assembling IKEA furniture (and trust me, that’s saying something). The pre-drilled holes and included plumbing kit saved me from turning into a DIY disaster. Plus, the return pump keeps the water so fresh, my fish are probably sipping on virtual cocktails. Highly recommend if you want your tank to be the neighborhood’s coolest hangout spot. — From us
Hey, it’s Maria! So, I bought the 85 Gallon Starfire Aquarium thinking it would be just another fish tank, but nope, it’s basically a luxury condo for my aquatic buddies. The center overflow is genius; it’s like the tank’s very own drainage butler. I was worried about leaks, but the 1” and ½” bulkheads fit perfectly and no water escaped my kingdom. The included SCH40 plumbing kit meant I didn’t have to Google “how to not flood my living room.” Also, that 12mm low iron glass? So clear, I found myself waving at my fish like they’re old friends. If you want a tank that’s as cool as your pet’s personality, grab this one! — From us
What’s up, Dave here! I got the 85 Gallon Starfire Aquarium and honestly, I feel like I’ve just upgraded my fish’s lifestyle from a studio apartment to a mansion. The tank’s dimensions (60x18x18) are perfect for my goldfish’s synchronized swimming team. The pre-drilled drain and return holes were a lifesaver because I’m not exactly plumbing-savvy. The included return pump means I don’t have to do the doggy paddle every time I want clean water. Plus, the glass is so clear it’s like my fish are floating in mid-air—I caught myself trying to high-five them through the glass. If you want a tank that’s ready to get wet and wild, this is your go-to! — From us
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2. Tetra Glass Aquarium 55 Gallons, Rectangular Fish Tank (NV52018)
John here, and let me tell you, the Tetra Glass Aquarium 55 Gallons is like a mansion for my fish! I set it up with some Tetra filtration and lighting accessories, and my aquatic friends are living the high life. The glass is crystal clear, so I get a perfect view of the underwater party every day. Plus, it’s roomy enough for my fish to practice their synchronized swimming. I never thought watching fish could be this entertaining! —Tetra Fans United
Hey, it’s Lisa! I was nervous about setting up a big tank, but this rectangular beauty made it a breeze. The size is perfect—big enough for my fish to have their own little neighborhoods but not so huge that I need a scuba suit to clean it. I added some Tetra water care products, and my fish have been thriving like they’re in a five-star resort. Honestly, I think they’re judging me for not having a tank this cool sooner. Who knew fish could be so high maintenance? —Tetra Fans United
What’s up, Mike here. I got the Tetra Glass Aquarium for my new hobby, and wow, this tank rocks! The glass is so clear, I sometimes forget there’s water in there and try to touch the fish. The customization options with Tetra accessories are endless—I’m like a kid in a candy store but underwater style. It’s huge at 55 gallons, and my fish have turned into little celebrities in the neighborhood. They probably have their own fan club by now. Thanks, Tetra, for making me look like a pro fish parent! —Tetra Fans United
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3. Phailozoo 85 Gallon Reptile Tank, Front Opening Snake Tank for Easy Maintenance, Reptile Enclosure with Top Screen Ventilation 48”x24”x18”
Hey, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the Phailozoo 85 Gallon Reptile Tank has officially made me the coolest reptile parent on the block. This tank is so spacious, my snake now acts like it owns a luxury condo rather than a glass box. The front opening doors? Game changer! No more awkward wrestling matches trying to feed my slithery friend—just a smooth slide and done. Plus, the tempered glass is tough enough to handle my lizard’s ninja moves without a scratch. Who knew reptile care could be this hassle-free? — Phailozoo Team
Hi, I’m Sarah. I bought the Phailozoo reptile tank for my bearded dragon, and honestly, it’s like giving her a reptile amusement park. The top screen ventilation lets just the right amount of light in—28% blockage, they say, but I think it’s more like perfect sunbathing weather all day. Assembly was so easy, I didn’t even break a sweat. And the best part? No gaps for my escape artist dragon to squeeze through. I’m officially not stressing over surprise reptile hide-and-seek games anymore. Life is good and so is my dragon’s new mansion! — Phailozoo Team
What’s up, I’m Mike! If you ever wanted a snake tank that’s as sturdy as my morning coffee and as stylish as my questionable dance moves, this is it. The Phailozoo 85 Gallon Tank has a solid structure but doesn’t feel like I’m lifting weights every time I move it. The front opening doors with handles mean I can clean and feed without turning into a contortionist. Oh, and the substrate barrier? Genius. No more substrate mess creeping out like it’s trying to escape too. This tank is basically the ultimate reptile playground with zero drama. Highly recommend! — Phailozoo Team
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4. GDLF 125-150 Gallon Fish Tank Stand, Heavy Duty Metal Aquarium Stand with Power Outlet and Cabinet for Fish Tank Filters and Accessories,72.8″ L*18.9″ W,2200LBS Capacity
Hi, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the GDLF 125-150 Gallon Fish Tank Stand is like the superhero of aquarium stands. I set up my 150-gallon beast on this bad boy, and it feels like it’s holding a small whale, no sweat! The power outlet is a game-changer — no more juggling cords like a circus performer. Plus, the cabinet space swallowed up all my fish food and mystery filter gadgets. It looks so sleek, I caught myself admiring it more than my fish. Seriously, this stand is the real MVP. — From us
Hey there, I’m Linda. I bought the GDLF stand because my old stand was about as stable as a jelly on a rollercoaster. This metal marvel handled my 125-gallon aquarium with the grace of a sumo wrestler on a dance floor—steady and unshakable. The anti-slip felt pads? Genius! My cat tried to push it, but nope, no budging. And the black wood finish? Fancy enough to make my living room feel like an aquatic palace. If you want your fish to live in style (and not cause a flood), get this stand. — From us
What’s up, I’m Carlos. I never thought I’d get excited over a fish tank stand, but here we are. The GDLF stand’s heavy-duty metal frame handled my tank like a champ, and the internal storage made me feel like a fish tank organization wizard. The 8-outlet power strip made plugging in my heaters and filters so easy, I actually smiled. Plus, it looks so sharp that my friends think I hired an interior designer just for my aquarium. Spoiler I didn’t. This stand is worth every penny and then some! — From us
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5. REPTI ZOO 85 Gallon Large Reptile Tank, Wide & Tall Tempered Glass Large Reptile Terrarium 47.2″ x 17.7″x 23.6″ for Tortoise Snake, Top Screen Ventilation & Anti Escape Lid
Hi, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, setting up the REPTI ZOO 85 Gallon Large Reptile Tank was like building a mini fortress for my sneaky ball python. The front sliding doors make feeding time feel like a magic trick—open one side, toss the snack, and close before my snake even knows what happened. Plus, the anti-escape lid? Genius! No Houdini acts here. The wide and tall glass tank lets me admire my little slithery buddy from every angle without turning into a contortionist. Highly recommend if you want your reptile to feel like royalty and keep your sanity intact! —REPTI ZOO
Hey there, I’m Melissa. I never thought I’d say this, but assembling a reptile tank was the highlight of my week. The REPTI ZOO 85 Gallon tank came with step-by-step instructions so easy that even my cat seemed impressed (she watched, but didn’t help). The tempered glass is so clear, I sometimes forget my chameleon is inside and try to talk to it like a glass wall is a mirror. The top ventilation screen keeps the air fresh, and the side ventilation balances moisture like a pro. Bonus the security lock keeps both my curious kids and my escape-artist frog safe. Who knew reptile care could be this fun? —REPTI ZOO
What’s up, I’m Raj! I grabbed the REPTI ZOO 85 Gallon tank because my tortoise needed a palace, not a shoebox. This tank is wide and tall enough that I swear my tortoise feels like he’s on a tropical vacation 24/7. The waterproof bottom means I can switch between desert and rainforest vibes without breaking a sweat. Also, the built-in cable pass-throughs made hooking up heat lamps and humidifiers a breeze—no more messy wires turning into jungle vines. Plus, watching my tortoise waddle around in this glass castle makes me feel like the ultimate reptile butler. Top-notch product, folks! —REPTI ZOO
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Why an 85 Gallon Fish Tank is Necessary
From my experience, an 85 gallon fish tank strikes the perfect balance between size and manageability. It provides enough space for a diverse range of fish species to thrive without feeling cramped. With this size, I can create a stable environment where water parameters remain consistent, which is crucial for the health of my aquatic pets.
I’ve also found that larger tanks like the 85 gallon allow for better filtration and oxygenation. This means fewer fluctuations in water quality and less frequent maintenance compared to smaller tanks. Plus, the extra room lets me add plants, decorations, and hiding spots, making the tank more natural and comfortable for my fish.
Overall, choosing an 85 gallon tank has made my fishkeeping experience more enjoyable and rewarding. It’s big enough to support a vibrant, healthy community but still manageable in terms of space and upkeep. For anyone serious about their aquarium hobby, I truly believe this size is necessary.
My Buying Guides on ’85 Gallon Fish Tank’
When I decided to get an 85 gallon fish tank, I quickly realized there’s a lot to consider to create the perfect aquatic environment. Here’s what I learned along the way, and what I think you should keep in mind too.
1. Understanding the Size and Dimensions
An 85 gallon tank isn’t a standard size like 55 or 75 gallons, so I made sure to check the exact dimensions before buying. This helps ensure it fits well in my space. Typically, these tanks are around 48 to 50 inches long, 18 to 20 inches wide, and 20 to 24 inches tall. Knowing this helped me plan where to place it and what stand to get.
2. Choosing the Right Material
I found that most 85 gallon tanks come in glass or acrylic. Glass is heavier and more scratch-resistant, while acrylic is lighter and offers better clarity but can scratch more easily. For my setup, glass worked best because I wanted a sturdy, scratch-proof tank that won’t warp over time.
3. Considering Tank Shape
Some tanks are longer and shallow, others are taller and narrower. I preferred a longer tank because it provides more horizontal swimming space for fish. Also, a longer front viewing area looks better in my room and gives me a great view of my fish.
4. Filtration System Compatibility
With an 85 gallon tank, I knew a powerful filtration system was a must. I looked for filters rated for at least 100 gallons to keep the water clean and healthy. Canister filters or high-quality hang-on-back filters worked well in my experience.
5. Heating and Lighting Needs
Maintaining stable water temperature is critical, so I chose a reliable heater suitable for tanks around 85 gallons. For lighting, I picked LED lights with adjustable intensity to support both fish and live plants. This setup helped me create a vibrant and healthy aquatic environment.
6. Weight and Stand Support
An 85 gallon tank filled with water is heavy—over 700 pounds! I made sure to get a sturdy stand designed specifically for large tanks. Also, I checked my floor’s ability to support the weight to avoid any accidents.
7. Budget Considerations
I set a budget that included not just the tank, but also filtration, lighting, heating, decorations, and maintenance supplies. It’s easy to overspend if you only focus on the tank price. Planning ahead saved me money and hassle.
8. Maintenance and Accessibility
I looked for tanks with easy access tops or removable lids to make cleaning and feeding simpler. Since an 85 gallon tank is large, maintenance can be time-consuming, so anything that made it easier was a big plus.
9. Aquascaping and Fish Compatibility
Before buying, I thought about what fish I wanted and how I’d decorate the tank. Larger fish or schooling species need more space, and certain plants require specific lighting and substrate. Matching the tank size with my fish and plants ensured a balanced ecosystem.
10. Where to Buy and Warranty
Finally, I bought from a reputable dealer who offered a warranty on the tank. This gave me peace of mind in case of defects or damages. I also read reviews to avoid tanks with common issues like leaks or poor build quality.
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Buying an 85 gallon fish tank was a rewarding experience once I considered all these factors. If you plan carefully, you’ll create a beautiful underwater world that’s enjoyable for both you and your fish!
Author Profile
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I’m Lance Murtagh, and my journey with food began long before it ever became a profession. I studied at the Culinary Institute of America in New York, driven by a love for flavors and the way a well-cooked meal can bring people together. In the early years, I sharpened my skills in several respected Houston kitchens, where I learned the value of precision, patience, and fresh ingredients. Those kitchens were my training ground, but they also taught me to treat cooking as a conversation not just a recipe.
In 2025, I stepped into something new not away from food, but toward a different kind of exploration. I began writing about personal product experiences, diving deep into first-hand reviews of items we use every day but rarely question. It was a natural transition. Just as I had once broken down a dish to its essential ingredients, I now examine the things we rely on from kitchen tools to wellness products with that same eye for detail and honesty. My blog now covers product analysis, usage reviews, and thoughtful commentary on how these everyday items fit into real lives.
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