Best Aquarium Wavemaker [7 Top Picks By Experts]

I guess you are interested in getting the best aquarium wavemaker for your tank.

In addition, you want to learn wavemakers in a bit more detail. Then, you are at the right place. 

Why do you need to use a wavemaker? Although many think wavemakers are not must-have accessories, I don’t entirely agree with them.

You need equipment to maintain oxygen levels in your aquarium, and wavemakers are extremely good at oxygenation in the tank.

Wavemakers not only increase oxygen levels but also provide numerous other benefits. They are better than traditional bubblers in many ways.

In the following sections, I’ll describe the benefits, their types, suitable place for installation, and how to choose the best wavemaker.

Also, I’ll provide an honest review of the top wavemakers available on the market. Keep reading!

Top Picks

What Is A Wavemaker, And How Do They Work?

Wavemakers are devices that create water circulation & make waves inside the aquarium. It’s an underwater fan that pushes water away from it and pulls water towards it. As a result, it creates a circular vortex inside the tank.

It remains submerged, and the fan is a powerful one to generate waves and turbulence. As a consequence, distribute the water in every corner of your aquarium.

Some of the wavemakers also have a controller unit. You can adjust the fan’s rotation to generate various types of waves similar to oceans and rivers.

If you have a large tank, in that case, you may need one or more wavemakers to maintain enough current.

Benefits Of An Aquarium Wavemaker

Helps Filtration

Wavemakers help keep the water constantly moving. It is beneficial to keep waste and debris from getting stuck or trapped in corners or dead spots in your tank. In that way, it keeps the detritus moving so that it can eventually find the filter intake.

Natural Waterflow

Providing the natural ambiance for fish and invertebrates in a fish tank keeps them happy and healthy. Almost all water bodies have some natural movement.

So, if you can create the movement artificially similar to nature, aquatic critters inside the aquarium may love that. Also, creating the wave can mimic the scenarios in rivers and oceans.

Ideal For Corals And Invertebrates In Your Tank

Corals are animals consisting of polyps. However, they can’t move and hunt for food. Wavemakers are blessings for sessile invertebrates and corals. It brings food to them by water movement.

Oxygenate The Water & Eliminates Dead Spots

‘Dead spots’ are oxygen-depleted areas where harmful anaerobic bacteria may develop. Dead spots can arise in stagnant aquarium water where water movement is very low. 

Wavemakers of sufficient power can increase the oxygen level in the tank, It prevents dead spots and provides oxygen to nitrifying bacteria to survive. 

Ideal Power Outage Solutions For Larger Tanks

During power outages, the oxygen level reduces over time. Wavemakers don’t need much power to run and can be hooked to an uninterrupted power supply (UPS).

Also, there are some DC wavemakers, which you can run directly through a battery power source.

Battery-powered air pumps are another option. However, wavemakers are more feasible than air pumps for larger tanks.

Reduce Algae Growth

There are a lot of reasons for algae growth in aquariums. However, lack of water movement also promotes algae growth.

Wavemakers move the water, so keeping a wavemaker may help you prevent algae outbreaks.

Subdued Aggression Of Fish Species

Fishes such as African cichlids love a good current.

A wavemaker can help in reducing the aggression levels in your African cichlid tank.

The strong wavemaker’s current will keep them active and busy by swimming around the flow instead of exerting all their energy chasing each other. 

But some fish like goldfish or bettas prefer gentle currents. So make sure you research your fish before installing wavemakers. 

The 7 Best Aquarium Wave Maker Reviews

1. Hydor Koralia Evolution Powerhead

Hydor is known for making quality products. The Koralia model is one of the best aquarium wavemakers in the market.

Wavemakers in this model are so compact and efficient at creating natural and beneficial water circulation like rivers and seas.

The Koralia model has four different sizes and is compatible to use both in freshwater and reef aquariums.

The smallest capacity size of this model is 600 GPH, and the highest is 1500 GPH. Thus, it covers a wide range of aquariums; 40 to 175 gallons for freshwater and 25 to 100 gallons for saltwater.

A quick comparison between the four models of the Hydor Koralia Evolution wave maker.

Features

Usability: Patented magnetic suction cup allows mounting at any position and on various surfaces; glass, acrylic, and plastic.

The unit is straightforward to assemble and disassemble. Spherical joints allow users to position it freely inside the aquarium and direct flow virtually at any position. 

Efficiency:  The model is designed and assembled in Italy, which produces high—quality pumps. The motor of this model is the most efficient and consumes only 5W to 7W, depending on the size.

Compatibility:  The model doesn’t have any built-in controller, so there is no variable speed setting option.

However, you can easily make it smart by using it along with the Hydor Smart Pump Controller. It works perfectly with controllers from other brands as well. 

2. Hygger Mini WaveMaker Magnetic DC Powerhead

Hygger DC mini wavemaker series has two models and can generate a flow rate of 1600-2600 GPH and are suitable for freshwater and marine aquariums. The series covers aquariums ranging from 3 to 55 gallons.

Smart wavemakers with a built-in controller can generate various waves similar to the ocean, enabling your fish to exercise and play identical to their natural habitation.

Power requirement varies because you can run it in different wave settings. You can also run it in different power and frequency modes according to the sunrise and sunset.

If you own a saltwater tank, it is the ideal choice for coral to thrive.

Features

Multi-functionality: The built-in controller is super intelligent. You can set different time settings, sunrise to sunset, and put each time with specific power, flow modes, and frequency.

Also, it has a 10 minutes auto-off feeding mode setting, and you’ll get notified through an error message if something is wrong, such as debris stuck into the impeller.

Usability: Easy to install, and the magnetic suction cup holds the unit in place. Its tiny size makes it possible to hide and be super quiet in operation; it produces less than 20 dB sounds. 

Operability: Energy-efficient motor and propeller circulate the water evenly in the tank and eliminate dead spots. A 360-degree motor fan moves water up and down, and coral reefs sway back and forth naturally with the water current.

3. Jebao SCP-120 Sine Cross Flow Pump WaveMaker

Jebao SCP-120 Sine Cross Flow Pump Wavemaker with Controller is one of the models of the SCP series.

It is a relatively new model, but it quickly receives admiration from the users and is reflected in the star rating.

This wavemaker is perfect for producing waves like a semi-fast-flowing river.

A comparison of the other model of the Jebao SCP series is in the table below.

Features

High performance: It uses sine wave technology with an ultra-quiet pump and stable performance. The double impeller structure creates robust water circulation, 4300-4600 GPH crossflow for the entire tank, ensuring no dead spots. 

Usability: This unit is suitable for both freshwater and saltwater. Although it can produce a high flow rate, you can easily adjust it with a built-in controller.

In addition, different flow patterns and wave actions can be generated. One single unit is capable to cover 

Operability: With Crossflow technology, the flow returns to the pump directly at 360 degrees & the BlueTooth wireless connection allows two pumps to alternate flow. Pumps can be controlled by master and slave mechanisms.

One single pump unit can easily create good waves in a 120-gallon tank. For a larger tank, you may need more than one.

4. Uniclife 2100 GPH Controllable Wavemaker

The Uniclife wavemaker has three different sizes, but here I’ll talk specifically about the 2100 GPH wavemaker model.

It is suitable in 20-60 gallons tanks and applicable for both freshwater and reef tanks.

Features

Functionality:  Flow rates and frequency are easily adjustable, and multiple sea waves are achievable using the control panel.

The maximum flow rate the unit can generate is 2100 GPH, but you can regulate flow from 1180 to 2100 GPH as per your tank needs.

Day and night mode mimic the natural environments, and 10 min auto-off feed mode is helpful while feeding the pets. 

Usability:  Strong magnet suction cup makes it easy to install in any place on your aquarium wall. You can move the wavemaker using an outside magnet. 

The wavemaker is powerful in creating waves but runs noiselessly. The fan can rotate 360 degrees to direct flow at any location. 

below are the comparison of the other models of the Uniclife wavemakers.

5. Jebao OW-25 Wavemaker 185-2245 GPH With Controller

The Jebao OW wavemaker series has four models, and our pick is the OW-25 model. It includes a wired controller and magnet mount and also features an improved motor to withstand damage.

It can generate a maximum of 2245 GPH flow rate and is suitable for all types of aquariums.

Features

Controllability: Built-in controller allows to adjust power, speed, and wave to different settings. It uses a light sensor to sense nighttime.

The feeding mode is fantastic as it shuts the wavemaker down for 10 minutes and automatically turns back on. 

Usability: There’s a wireless master and slave mode, and it’s straightforward to sync; just click one to master and the others to slave.

Moreover, you can connect another wavemaker and control it with one controller. It’s ultra-compact in design, super quiet, and very easy to use. 

Worthiness:  The price is affordable, and you’ll get the same features similar to high-priced wavemakers. If you want to get a high-quality one at a lower price, I recommend this one. 

6. FREESEA Aquarium Circulation Pump Powerhead

The FREESEA aquarium wavemaker is designed to produce gentle flow simulating ocean waves. It helps to oxygenate the aquarium water and can stir up the debris.

The powerful pump generates as high as a 1050 GPH flow rate. It moves the water quietly throughout the tank with a minimal 6W energy consumption.

It can sufficiently move water in a tank ranging from 30 to 60 gallons.

Features

Usability: An anti-corrosion titanium-made impeller blade of the pump suits use in freshwater, saltwater, and virtually any aquarium. 

Operability: Unlike other wavemakers with suction cups, this uses magnetic brackets, which allow you to position the pump securely at any position.

The head rotates 360 degrees, and with the flow control switch attached to the head, flow rates can easily be adjusted. 

Efficiency & Warranty: Although the pump of this unit is powerful, it consumes very minimal energy, only 6W.

The manufacturer also provides a 12-month pump warranty and 24 hours of professional after-sales service.

Comparison of the two models available of FREESEA.

7. YCTECH Aquarium Fish Tank Circulation Pump Wave Maker

The YCTECH aquarium fish tank wavemaker is a powerful one to generate wave motion and vitality for fish, corals, and other aquatic critters.

It applies to aquariums ranging from 20-60 gallons. Although it is practically too much for small tanks like 20 gallons, I recommend using tanks of the higher end of the range.

Features

Power & Efficiency: The pump of this wavemaker is super strong. It can rotate 360 degrees, and you can adjust the flow direction at your will.

Although it’s powerful, the energy consumption is relatively low (6W to 8W).

Usability:  The wavemaker uses a magnetic base which helps to reduce noise and keep the unit stable in place.

The flow is easily adjustable using a knob; detachment and cleaning are super simple. You don’t need any tools to assemble and disassemble and suit in all aquariums. 

Warranty & Service: 24-hours customer service is in place to answer all of your questions.

Also, suppose you are not satisfied with the product in 30 days for any reason. In that case, the manufacturer claims that they will refund the cost.

The product has a one-year warranty; you can return the new one for free if there is any problem within this period.

What Are The Fundamental Differences Between AC & DC Wavemakers?

Wavemakers are two types but of the same function, according to their electrical build-up. One is an AC wavemaker, and the other one is a DC wavemaker. Whether you go for the AC or DC version directly impacts their prices, functionality, and efficiency. 

AC wavemakers use alternating current (AC current) and use an AC motor to operate. AC motors are reliable and cheap but use more energy and can be noisy as well. 

Conversely, DC wavemakers use a DC motor and a particular controller unit that converts AC to DC. The rate of rotation of DC can be precisely controlled without sacrificing the power (or torque) or damaging the motor. 

DC wavemakers are energy-efficient and can run on battery power (if needed). In addition, they have tons of features and are a bit expensive. 

What Size Wavemaker Do I Need?

What size powerhead you need depends entirely on aquarium water volume and the types of aquatic critters you have in your tank.

It also varies on the types of aquariums you own. So, the answer is not a straightforward one. If you have a planted tank, a turnover of 5-10 times is sufficient. For a densely planted tank needing the higher end of that range.

But the required flow rate is different for saltwater tanks. You’ll notice that most wavemakers have different capacity ratings for freshwater and saltwater application.

The pump is suitable for use in a 100 gallons freshwater aquarium that may be ideal only for a 30-50 gallons marine aquarium.

As a general rule, a reef aquarium containing typical inhabitants requires a turnover of 20~30 times the total volume. Therefore, a 200-300 GPH flow rate will be required for a 10-gallon typical reef aquarium.

In the below table, I’ve specified the turnover required for different types of tanks. Multiply the size of your tank with the required turnover to determine the flow rate you need from the wavemaker.

Types of Tank	Turnover Required
Freshwater Tanks	5~10 times
Heavily Planted Tank	10~15 times
Saltwater With Soft Coral & LSP	10~20 times
Saltwater Tank With SSP	20-40 times

TIPS: You had better research well to find the best setup for your tanks, and I’ll suggest buying a wavemaker with adjustable flow. Because if in full flow it’s too high for the tank, you may switch to lower settings.

How To Choose The Best Wavemaker For A Tank

Price

Wavemakers are available at a wide range of prices. Depending on the capacity, functionality, and brand, it varies in the range of 50$ dollars to as high as 300$.

Wavemakers without built-in controllers are relatively cheap. However, you may enjoy the different waves, speed, and power settings. In that case, you have to buy one with a controller at a higher price.

Warranty & Customer Service

Warranty and customer service are significant. Products with a warranty reveal the manufacturers’ confidence, and they are willing to take responsibility for their products.

Customer service is also handy because in case of any query or problem you can take the help of them. It is an indication of how the company is caring for their customer.

So, personally, I’d prefer a warranty period and good customer service in place before purchasing any product.

Safety

Safety is another important parameter to look at. Wherever you are engaging in electricity and water, you should always consider the safety part, especially with saltwater tanks.

Some products may even electrify the entire tank if there is stray voltage leakage. All your investments can be ruined in seconds.

Therefore, safety is a must; go for a renowned brand, well-known for quality products. You can reduce the probability of any unwanted happenings.

Durability

Nobody likes a product that doesn’t last long. Electrical appliances can be faulty at any time. Still, the chance of that is less with good brands because they put a lot of effort into their products to increase the service life.

Obviously, you can take the gamble of trying a new brand. Nonetheless, the safe option is to buy from a reliable brand.

Ease Of Installation

Almost all wavemakers come with suction cups or magnetic suction bases. Whatever you choose, virtually all wavemakers are easy to install.

The magnetic suction base is better in many ways than the suction cup. With the magnetic base, you can reposition the wavemaker by utilizing a magnet from the outside.

Before installation, please go through the manufacturer manual and take note of the warning, cautions, etc.

Efficiency

Efficiency is vital as it will hit your electricity bills. Some wavemakers are extremely efficient in operation, and they consume a negligible 5 to 10W, similar to a LED light. On the contrary, some may consume much higher than that.

Noise

Noise is disturbing, and nobody likes it in their aquarium. Although wavemakers in my list produce zero to low noise, if you want to buy another model outside of the list, please make sure that it isn’t noisy; otherwise, that will be irritating.

FAQs

Where to position your powerhead?

Wavemaker positioning is extremely important for extracting the benefits. It’s essential to synchronize your wavemakers with aquarium filters to get the added filtration effects, oxygenation, and so on. I recommend watching the video below to understand the correct positioning of the wavemaker.

How do you know your fish are comfortable or not with wavemakers?

If you have fish that like a good current, a wavemaker helps produce that strong water flow. But, how can you tell whether they like it or not? If your fish are constantly swimming into the current, that means they like it.

On the other hand, if they’re stuck all the way on the other side of the tank, meaning they’re trying to get away from it. So, do a little testing and experiment with how much flow they like or don’t like.

What are the types of aquarium water pumps on the market?

Aquarium water pumps are of different types, functionality, and uses; those are:

• Filtration pumps
• Return pumps or circulation pumps
• Powerhead
• Wavemakers

Filtration pumps are not suitable for wavemaker applications. Circulation pumps aren’t adequate for wave-making because they circulate the water inside an aquarium to a limited extent. 

Powerheads with an energy-efficient motor can generate a narrow, strong current with turbulence. Powerheads are often used alternatively to introduce waves in the tank; however, it is not as efficient as wavemakers. 

Takeaway

I hope, now you have a profound understanding of wavemakers, now you can easily choose one by yourself. Before deciding to buy a wavemaker, try to take your time, and consider all the aspects concerning that, including efficiency, prices, power consumption, etc. 

You can select one from the best aquarium wave maker list, and my choice is Hygger Mini WaveMaker Magnetic DC Powerhead.  It is very good for nano/small aquariums.

It has a smart controller that allows the creation of different waves and adjusts power settings and frequency based on various times of the day.

Share your experiences using wavemakers and what brands you find the best, leave a comment below.