6 Best Heaters for Betta Fish – Take Proper Care of Your Pets!

In this article, you will know about the best six heaters for your betta fish and be able to choose the perfect one with the help of a complete buying guide.
By
James Palmer
James Palmer
Editor
James is a leading resource for unbiased and reliable reviews on fish products. Throughout his career, he has honed his writing skills through his contributions to several f read more
reviewed
Reviewed By
Keily Brown
Keily Brown
Expert Writer
Keily is a valuable asset to the team and a dedicated contributor to the site's success. Keily's education in veterinary science has given her a deep understanding of the an read more
Last updated: September 08, 2023
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The flamboyant and adorable aquatic fish called Betta have different distinct features, but one of them is that they can only thrive in certain water temperatures. To provide the best aquatic environment for your fish, you need an effective heater that meets specific purposes.

We considered various factors like their temperature stability when selecting the best heater for betta fish. This is essential because betta fish cannot handle sudden fluctuations in temperature. We also considered the durability, safety features, and adjustability of the heaters and put together six top heaters that would provide the best environment for your betta. Based on these, the Freesea gets our Editor’s Choice nomination. Here you’ll find the heaters for small fish tanks of just 1 gallon and the ones that can provide heat for larger aquariums. And if you are looking for compact models that don’t get much space or those that are easy to use – they are on our list!

Quick Summary

  • Editor’s Choice: Freesea
    "This reliable model features topnotch durability and safety, with shatter- and blast-proof quartz glass construction, and high performance"
  • Premium Pick: BOEESPAT
    "This tech-friendly model features an LED thermometer and corrosion-resistant construction, with multiple power options and a long-lasting design"
  • Best Value: Hygger Mini
    "Offering topmost value for your money, this heater has a service time of over three years and several built-in features for better performance"
  • Most Compact Design: DaToo
    "This heater is perfect for small-sized betta tanks but comes with auto temperature and safety features to keep your exotic fish in good health"
  • Easiest to Use: Pulaco
    "This easy to use heater comes with indicator lights and can be placed in different positions depending on the aquarium you use"
  • Best for 5-Gallon Tank: PGfunny
    "This heater is perfect for your five-gallon betta fish tank, with auto temperature control that helps you save money on energy bills"
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 8960 people in the past 30 days
9.8
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.7
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Based onweb analytics
9.7
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.5
9.8
1
Editor’s Choice

Freesea

Features
  • Tank capacity: 40 – 60 gallons
  • Temperature range: 64 – 93°F
  • Power: 300W
  • Size: 13.39 x 1.18 x 0.79 in.
  • Cord length: 4 ft.

 More features: free diving thermometer included; auto shut off; quartz glass; scald-preventing; 1-year warranty

The Freesea heater can be fully submerged into your betta tank up to 60 gallons without breaking or cracking. It has an adjustable temperature that goes up to 90 degrees, so you can adjust it to meet your betta’s needs. Also, it uses 300 watts of power, which is more than enough for any betta tank. It is also made of anti-melting and anti-punching double sealed material, which means it is extra durable.

If your aquarium is less than 40 gallons, you can choose other sizes and wattage of this model: 100W for fish tanks from 15 to 25 gallons or 50W for smaller ones – from 5 to 15 gallons. At the same time, they all offer the same outstanding features as the 300-watt Freesea heater, including a temperature control range (from 64 to 93°F) and a 4.9-feet long cord.

    Why is it special?
  • Freesea heater is an excellent choice if you want for your betta fish safety. It comes with a free diving thermometer, which can be really useful if you need to take the water temperature without sticking your hand in the tank. In addition, it is made out of shatter-proof and blast-proof quartz glass, so you don't have to worry about it breaking if it gets knocked or bumped.
    What are the flaws?
  • However, this model has some downsides. While some users liked the Freesea heater and didn't have any problem, others complained that the device heats up too much and can melt if not monitored carefully. Also, the Freesea offers no instruction manual, so you need to figure out how to use it on your own, which can be challenging for people who are not good with devices like this.
Also Product Ranking:
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 5900 people in the past 30 days
9.7
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.4
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.6
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.6
9.7
2
Premium Pick

BOEESPAT

Features
  • Tank capacity: 10 – 20 gallons
  • Temperature range: 65 – 93°F
  • Power: 100W
  • Size: ‎ 2.4 x 1.1 x 4.33 in.
  • Cord length: 9 ft.

  More features: built-in smart digital LED thermometer display; corrosion-resistant; auto shut off; anti-scalding protective cover; 1-year warranty

The BOEESPAT aquarium heater has several great features, such as the built-in digital LED thermometer and anti-scalding protective cover. Its smart thermostat can self-adjust to fit your tank’s needs, so you won’t have to worry about over or under-heating your pet’s water. It also comes with two powerful suction cups, so it won’t fall off even if the water level is low.

As well as the Freesea heater, this 100W model offers different power options depending on how many gallons are in your betta fish tank: compact 50W tank heater for 3 – 10 gallons or 75W heater for the bigger aquariums of 10 – 20 gallons. Make sure you get the right one before making a purchase; otherwise, you may run into water heating problems.

    Why did it make our list?
  • We are impressed by BOEESPAT's corrosion-resistant features and the automatic shut-off function. This heater is perfect for both saltwater and freshwater tanks and has a temperature deviation range of only 1°F. The cord length of 4.9 ft. can be beneficial for big tanks. It also has a one-year warranty, which makes excellent peace of mind that your betta's heater will not break or malfunction anytime soon!
    What is not ideal about it?
  • Still, some things could be improved In this heater. First, its design is a bit flawed in that the controller is right against the plug. We also noticed that it probably could be a little more accurate in temperature control and would be better if the controller was on a separate cord and not right against the plug.
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 9925 people in the past 30 days
9.3
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.8
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.8
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.1
9.3
3
Best Value

Hygger Mini

Features
  • Tank capacity: 5 – 15 gallons
  • Temperature range: 68 – 90°F
  • Power: 50W
  • Size: 6.82 x 3.62 x 2.13 in.
  • Cord length: 4.6 ft.

 More features: built-in thermometer; red and green indicator lights; heat-resistant quartz glass; auto shut off

If you’re looking for an affordable and reliable betta fish water heater, the Hygger Mini aquarium heater is a great option. This model is designed to work with tanks ranging in size from 5 to 15 gallons, and it has a temperature range of 68 – 90°F. The Hygger Mini also features red and green indicator lights, a built-in thermometer, and an auto shut-off.

This is one of the four models on our list (including the Freesea, the BOEESPAT, and the DaToo) that offers different wattage to suit exactly your betta fish tank. If you have an aquarium that is bigger than 15 gallons, you may consider choosing the one with the 100W power for fish tanks up to 30 gallons. The only difference you’ll notice between them is the length of a heater which is 5 vs. 7 inches.

    Why are we impressed?
  • The Hygger Mini aquarium heater is a top choice for many fish enthusiasts because it's known for being both efficient and durable. This model can be used in both fresh water and saltwater fish tanks, giving you even more flexibility when it comes to tank set-ups. And with a service life of more than 3 years, you'll be able to enjoy worry-free heating for your Betta fish for a long time to come.
    What negatives must you be aware of?
  • As for its cons, some users complain that all of the heat it produces is transferred through a very small area because it's tiny. This can make it difficult to keep larger tanks at the desired temperature. Second, the Hygger Mini is not able to heat a 5-gallon tank above 80 degrees. However, these downsides shouldn't overshadow the many benefits that this heater has to offer.
Also Product Ranking:
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 9607 people in the past 30 days
9.0
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.7
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.8
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.6
9.0
4
Most Compact Design

DaToo

Features
  • Tank capacity: 1 – 1.5 gallons
  • Temperature range: 75 – 82°F
  • Power: 10W
  • Size: 1.9 x 0.24 x 3.9 ‎in.
  • Cord length: not specified

 More features: ultra-small; auto temperature control; children-friendly; 1-year warranty

The DaToo betta heater is a submersible model that is specifically designed to heat up 1 – 1.5 gallon tanks. This heater is very compact and easy to use, making it a great choice for those looking for a compact and efficient heater. The DaToo Aquarium Heater has a temperature range of 75 – 82°F and has a power rating of 10W, so it won’t consume a lot of energy. Plus, it comes with a 1-year warranty!

This mini heater is one of the smallest products on our list. As well as the Pulaco, it is perfect for 1-gallon fish tanks. Also, both models are designed for use in fresh water and have red and green indicator lights. However, the DaToo is very different in look, as it has a rectangular shape, while the Pulaco is a standard cylindrical heater.

    What makes it stand out?
  • We like how simple and easy to use this model is. It offers an auto temperature control system to keep the water at your desired temperature range. It's also won't leak any harmful substances into the aquarium if damaged for whatever reason. Finally, this heater will be beneficial for betta breeding as well, as it can help regulate the water's temperature and keep it at a consistent level.
    Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?
  • The first downside is that this heater should only be used for freshwater tanks, as it can't sustain the salt content of a marine tank. Another common complaint from users is that the thermometer included with this heater is not waterproof, so you will have to replace it if it comes in contact with water.
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 7690 people in the past 30 days
8.8
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.4
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.4
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.5
8.8
5
Easiest to Use

Pulaco

Features
  • Tank capacity: 1 – 6 gallons
  • Temperature range: maintains water at 78°F
  • Power: 25W
  • Size: 5.5 x 1.2 x 2.7 in.
  • Cord length: 3.9 ft.

 More features: auto temperature control; 1-year warranty; free thermometer strip included; red and green indicator lights

If you are looking for one of the best water heaters for your betta fish, the Pulaco is a great option that can be used in tanks with a capacity of 1 to 6 gallons. It maintains the water at 78°F and has red and green indicator lights to tell whether the heater is on or off easily. Also, It comes with a cord that is 3.9-feet long, and the heater itself is 5.5 x 1.2 x 2.7 inches in size, making it easy to place even in smaller tanks.

The Pulaco is very similar in shape to other models like Freesea and Hygger Mini. Also, it has an auto temperature control feature like other products on our list. Still, this heater stands out from the others: it is better suited for small fish tanks due to its size and power of 25 watts. So, if your aquarium is no more than 6 gallons, you can be sure of buying this particular model.

    What makes it stand out?
  • We love that the Pulaco heater comes with a free thermometer strip, so you can always keep an eye on the temperature and make sure it is staying at the desired level. It is also perfect for small glass or acrylic desktop aquariums, and you can even place it in a vertical or horizontal position, depending on your needs.
    Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?
  • Despite all the benefits, the Pulaco aquarium heater has a few things that could be improved. First, some users have reported that the default temperature isn’t always accurate and can sometimes increase up to 80°F. Additionally, the cord length is relatively short, so keep that in mind if you want to purchase this particular heater.
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 6077 people in the past 30 days
8.7
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.4
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.4
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.4
8.7
6
Best for 5-Gallon Tank

PGfunny

Features
  • Tank capacity: 3 – 5 gallons
  • Temperature range: 77 – 82°F
  • Power: 25W
  • Size: ‎5.35 x 0.9 x 0.63 in.
  • Cord length: not specified

 More features: auto temperature control; sturdy engineering nylon and glass fiber; CE, ROHS, FCC, and UL1018 certified; 1-year warranty

If you’re looking for the best heater for a betta fish 5-gallon tank that is fully submersible, the PGfunny heater is a great option. It features a temperature range of 77 – 82°F and is powered by 25W. It also comes with a one-year warranty. At just 5.35 x 0.9 x 0.63 inches, it’s one of the most compact heaters on the market. And, it’s flame retardant, so you can rest assured knowing your betta is safe.

The PGfunny model can be compared to the Pulaco. They both are submersible aquarium heaters with an auto temperature control, a power of 25W, and suitable for 5-gallon tanks. Also, these models have a 1-year warranty from the manufacturer, so you can be sure they will last long. However, the PGfunny has valuable certifications that provide safety for your betta fish.

    What stands out?
  • We love the easy-to-set thermostat that will automatically adjust the level in case the water gets too hot and save you money on your energy bill. This model is also made with sturdy engineering nylon and glass fiber and CE, ROHS, FCC, and UL1018 certified for safety. Finally, the PGfunny heater is anti-explosion, scald-preventing, and safe for betta fish.
    What cons did we manage to find?
  • Although we think the PGfunny is an excellent choice for a heater, it does have some downsides. One of them is that the temperature strip can be inaccurate, so you may need to adjust it accordingly. Additionally, some users have complained that it does not last long – but with a one-year warranty, you can always get a replacement if needed.

Things to Consider

Heaters are an essential piece of equipment for any aquarium, and they are vital for tanks with fish that require a specific water temperature. If you are looking for the best heater for the betta tank, this buying guide will help you make the right choice.

Why Does a Betta Fish Need a Heater?

Betta fish, also known as Siamese fighting fish Trusted Source The 1,000-Year Secret That Made Betta Fish Beautiful | The New York Times A betta fish, also known as the Siamese fighting fish, in an aquarium of the International Plakad Competition on Bangkok in September. www.nytimes.com , is a popular aquarium species treated as a pet in the United States and Europe. It comes from Southeast Asia.

When it comes to keeping your betta fish happy and healthy, one of the most important things you can do is make sure their tank is kept at a comfortable temperature.

A betta fish tank should have a water temperature between 74 °F and 80°F. If the water temperature of the fish tank is below or above this range, your betta fish will slowly become ill.

That’s why it is essential to buy a heater for your betta fish tank – to maintain proper water temperature.

How to Choose the Best Heater for Betta Fish

There are a few things to consider when it comes to choosing the best heater for your betta fish tank. Size, adjustability, readability, durability, and safety are essential factors to look for when making your decision.

Let’s take a closer look at these and some other essential features you need to learn about before making a purchase.

Type

There are three types of heaters for Betta fish tanks: immersion, submersible, and hanging heaters. Each type of heater has its own set of benefits and drawbacks. Here is a brief overview of each type:

  • Immersion heaters. These heaters are designed to be placed directly in the aquarium water. They are the most affordable option, but they can also be the most dangerous, as they can easily become clogged with debris or overheat.
  • Submersible heaters. These heaters are designed to be submerged in the aquarium water. They come in various sizes, and they are more expensive than immersion heaters but less expensive than hanging heaters. However, submersible heaters can be difficult to clean and maintain.
6 Best Heaters for Betta Fish – Take Proper Care of Your Pets!
Aquarium heaters like the Pulaco should be fully submerged in the tank’s water; therefore, they are waterproof.
  • Hanging heaters: These heaters are the most expensive option, but they also come with many benefits. They’re designed to hang above the water and extend into it only a little bit (so they’re less likely to become clogged with debris or break). Since they stay out of the water, you don’t have to worry about them potentially overheating your aquarium – which is one huge benefit of choosing a hanging heater for the betta fish tank.

Wattage & Tank Size

One of the most important things to consider when buying a heater is the wattage. The higher the wattage, the more heat the heater will produce.

If you buy a heater that’s too powerful for your tank, it could overheat and kill your fish. Conversely, if you buy a heater that’s not powerful enough, it won’t be able to keep your tank at a comfortable temperature.

Most heaters come in a range of wattages, so you can choose the one that’s best suited for your tank size. For example, if you have a 5-gallon tank, you’ll need a heater with a wattage between 50 and 100 watts. If you have a 10-gallon tank, you’ll need a heater with a wattage between 100 and 200 watts.

Safety Features

It’s essential to buy a heater with some safety features, such as an automatic shut-off switch. This will prevent the heater from overheating and causing any damage Trusted Source Betta fish often mistreated in pet industry, evidence suggests | National Geographic You can have a healthy betta, but persistent myths often lead to improper care. www.nationalgeographic.com to your aquarium or fish.

Some heaters also come with a temperature control dial, so you can easily adjust the temperature to ensure your betta fish are always comfortable.

Adjustability

Betta fish can be challenging to maintain at a comfortable temperature because they come from the tropics and prefer warmer waters. Usually, you’ll want to keep your betta tank between 74 and 79 degrees Trusted Source Keeping a Better Betta Fish Aquarium | Tropical Fish Hobbyist Magazine Don’t keep your bettas in a bowl! Heed this advice to give your fighting fish a better home. www.tfhmagazine.com Fahrenheit (24-27 degrees Celsius).

Many betta fish tank heaters come with adjustable temperature controls, which allow you to set the heater to the perfect temperature for your betta. This is a crucial feature, as different bettas prefer different temperatures. That’s why it’s so important to choose a heater that’s powerful enough for your tank size yet adjustable enough to ensure your betta fish remain comfortable and safe even if the room temperature changes.

Readability

Another critical factor to consider when choosing a heater for your betta fish tank is how readable the temperature gauge is. Choose a heater that’s easy to read so you can monitor the temperature without any hassle. Many betta fish tank heaters come with clear and easy-to-read dials and gauges, so you don’t have to worry about straining your eyes when checking on your fish throughout the day.

6 Best Heaters for Betta Fish – Take Proper Care of Your Pets!
White indicators make it easy to determine the temperature in the aquarium without straining your eyes.

Heater Size & Shape

You should also consider the size and shape of your heater. Make sure it’s compatible with the size of your tank and that there will be enough room for water circulation around it. Also, think about aesthetics – if you need to keep the heater out of sight (for example, because you have a betta tank in your bedroom), you’ll want to choose a small and discreet heater.

Durability

Betta fish heater durability varies – some can last for years, and others could break after only a few months. If you plan on buying a heater that’s expensive and long-lasting, it’s essential to choose one with a sturdy and durable build like the BOEESPAT aquarium heater, which is made out of high-quality materials resistant to corrosion.

FAQ

How do I know if my heater for betta fish is working?

One way to tell if your heater is working properly is to monitor the temperature in your betta tank. If the temperature is too low, you’ll need to turn up your heater. If it’s too high, then turn it down. To avoid this issue, always ensure that your heater has accurate temperature controls so you can adjust it accordingly.

Where should I place a heater in a betta fish tank?

Ideally, you’ll want to place the heater in a spot with good water circulation and avoid covering it with gravel or other objects. It’s also important to make sure the heater is completely submerged in water – otherwise, it could overheat and cause damage to your tank.

Can I heat my Betta tank without a heater?

Some people try to use things like light bulbs or lamps to heat their betta tank. While this is not usually a good idea (and is actually dangerous), if you’re insistent on doing this, it’s important to remember that lights can sometimes affect the temperature of your betta fish tank because the rays emit heat. So while indirect sunlight may help raise the water temperature in your tank, direct sunlight could have the opposite effect – especially during winter months when the sun’s rays are weaker. The safest way to heat your tank would be using a heater designed specifically for aquariums.

Our verdict

Out of all models, we were especially impressed by three of them. First, or editor’s choice, the Freesea heater is one of the most durable heaters on the market as it is made out of anti-melting and anti-punching double sealed material. Next comes the BOEESPAT heater with a built-in smart digital LED thermometer display. One of the most impressive features we’ve noticed in this heater is its anti-scalding protective cover, ensuring your betta’s safety and preventing burns. Finally, the Hygger Mini aquarium heater has an excellent value for betta fish owners due to its ability to work in both freshwater and saltwater fish tanks. Plus, its service life of more than 3 years will ensure it will work well for years to come.

When it comes to keeping your betta fish happy and healthy, one of the most important things you can do is make sure their tank has a heater. We hope this article was helpful in your search for the best heater for betta fish!

References

1.
The 1,000-Year Secret That Made Betta Fish Beautiful | The New York Times
A betta fish, also known as the Siamese fighting fish, in an aquarium of the International Plakad Competition on Bangkok in September.
2.
Betta fish often mistreated in pet industry, evidence suggests | National Geographic
You can have a healthy betta, but persistent myths often lead to improper care.
3.
Keeping a Better Betta Fish Aquarium | Tropical Fish Hobbyist Magazine
Don’t keep your bettas in a bowl! Heed this advice to give your fighting fish a better home.
9,8
Total Score
Freesea - Editor’s Choice
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