Maintaining the water quality in your fish tank is vital for the survival of your fish friends. Now, you can make it happen with the right Protein Skimmer.

Also known as foam fractionators, these water filtration devices will ensure that the water stays clean and the fishes can live a long life. They also keep the nitrate levels in check, and you will find the water to be more clear.

Choosing a HOB or a ‘hang on back’ model will ensure that you utilize the least amount of space possible. We had a shortage of space inside the tank, and that’s when the HOB versions came to our rescue.

But the problem is that there are multiple choices in the market, and choosing one can be quite challenging.

To save you from a stressful expedition, this comprehensive and unbiased list of 13 exceptional options has been curated. We have also included a buyer’s guide to help you choose the right one for your needs.

So, without further ado, let’s dive in!

Top HOB Protein Skimmers 

1. AquaMaxx HOB-1.5 Hang-On-Back Protein Skimmer

In the first position, we have the AquaMaxx HOB-1.5 Hang-On-Back Protein Skimmer, which is known for its brilliant performance. It will help eliminate all your algae problems inside the tank and will give you a sparkling clean aquarium to boast of.

Why Did We Like It?

We loved the upgraded AquaMaxx Shark pump, which could draw up ample amounts of air and break it down into bubbles. This boosted the overall performance of the fish tank. Furthermore, the pump is placed inside the skimmer to save space and improve efficiency. If you are expecting the pump to be noisy, rest assured that you will have a completely silent experience.

Besides, it is very easy to set up and maintain. We found a collection cup that can be easily removed and cleaned separately.

It is also compatible with 90 gallons of water, making it fit for small to medium-sized aquariums. We were thrilled with the versatility of this option.

Lastly, it works very quickly and takes no time to fit in. We attached the skimmer in the morning, after which we fed our fishes. Immediately the skimmer started working, and a thick layer of foam formed on the top.

What Could’ve Been Better?

Our only problem with this product was that the manual was not very clear. We had to watch videos online to understand how to assemble the parts. The process in itself is not very difficult, but easier and detailed instructions in the installation guide could have saved us more time.

2. Coral Vue Technology BH-1000 Octopus with External Pump

In the second position, we have a unit that works very well with tight spaces. The Coral Vue Technology BH-1000 Octopus with External Pump can easily fit behind the tank because of its compact nature. It will also not heat your aquarium while functioning, keeping the water temperature in control.

Why Did We Like It?

This product can deal with a large capacity of 100 gallons and will work with medium to large-sized tanks very well. Also, it will hang behind the outer wall with the water pump just under the skimmer.

Another great advantage is the easy cleaning process. Most models do not allow complete dismantling, and that makes it difficult to clean some parts. But here, the body can be taken apart entirely, and can hence, be cleaned adequately.

Not only that, but the process of setting it up is also straightforward. You will be getting a booklet with the pack, which will guide you throughout. Follow it carefully, and you will be done within half an hour.

Made with high-grade acrylic, the body is sturdy and is 8 inches wide, 17 inches tall, and 3.5 inches deep.

What Could’ve Been Better?

We felt that the constant humming sound could be annoying if the aquarium is placed near your bed. While it skims well, the noise can be bothersome, so we suggest that you keep the tank at a distance from the sofas or beds. The best place would be to keep it in the hallway.

3. CPR Bak-Pak 2 Protein Skimmer

Next up is another protein skimmer that is designed to impress with its high quality built. The CPR Bak-Pak 2 Protein Skimmer is a second-generation model that is very efficient in biological filtration and protein skimming. We have been using it for a few months now, and it has delighted us with its incredible features.

Why Did We Like It?

Firstly, the cup which collects the protein is adjustable, and you can slide it up or down according to your requirements. It usually depends on the amount of foam and the wetness of it. This model is perfect for aquariums up to 60 gallons, but it is best to use it for 55 gallons or less. This is recommended for better performance.

Furthermore, it is very easy to clean the system which can be taken apart when necessary.

Also, the outflow tube is enclosed and hence eliminates salt sprays. It stops tiny bubbles from entering the aquarium, too, which is an added benefit here.

To top it all, we found the product to be very easy to set up. All you need to do is hang it behind the aquarium, make sure it is correctly leveled and then turn it on. You would not need to watch videos for any extra help.

What Could’ve Been Better?

This product does its job perfectly well but needs a bit more maintenance than usual. The airline often gets clogged, but it is easy to unclog it. Fill a syringe with hot water, and this should unclog it completely. It needs to be done often to keep your skimmer working for long.

4. Coralife 05271 Super Skimmer with Pump

In the 4th position, we have the Coralife 05271 Super Skimmer, which is known for its unique patented needle wheel aspiration system. This is also popular for the different models that take care of aquariums with a capacity of 65 gallons to 220 gallons covering big and small versions.

Why Did We Like It?

You can attach the pump in two ways. Either it can be used inside the aquarium, or it can be hung with a mounting bracket supporting the frame. This means it works for all kinds of aquariums regardless of there being sufficient space inside or not. Our product had a capacity of working with 65 gallons of water; we were easily able to fit with our small-sized tank.

Also, this is equipped with dual injection inlets. This feature helps in increasing the contact time between the water and bubbles. The bubble production diffuser then stops the bubbles from entering into your aquarium.

We loved the amount of thought that the company has put into manufacturing this highly detailed unit. One thing about this is that if you can keep it clean, it will last for long.

Coming to the collection cup, we were delighted to find a wide-neck one with a very simple twist feature, which enabled us to clean it easily too.

What Could’ve Been Better?

We found that the product was difficult to set up. The manual was not efficient, and it lacked clear instructions. You will also not find any pictures of the process. It is best to look up videos on youtube and then proceed with the assembly. This is indeed one area where the company can improve.

5. Instant Ocean SeaClone Protein Skimmer

If you have been in search of a budget-friendly option that will impress you with its wide range of features, we have an excellent one to consider. The Instant Ocean SeaClone Protein Skimmer is a powerful product that is perfect for mid-sized aquariums and will do a great job of keeping it clean.

Why Did We Like It?

The Maxi-Jet 1200 pump, paired with the Turbo-Venturi Injector system, is extremely efficient in forming foam and protein-laden bubbles. It mixes water with air present inside the pump impeller and creates froth, which then is turned to microbubbles. We loved the fact that the machine aims for maximum skimming and improved infusion technology.

There is also a Vortx Reaction chamber where the air and water are made to swirl around at high speed, thus creating a tornado effect. This draws more proteins and wastes from the water, making the process extremely effective.

Adding to these features, the device is also very easy to clean. The parts are easy to detach and washing them regularly increases the durability. It has been working fine for around 9 months now with an occasional cleaning.

What Could’ve Been Better?

Our device turned out to be pretty noisy for the initial few days. But then after readjusting it and giving it a few days to break in, we found that the sound was drastically reduced. If the product continues making a loud sound, we recommend contacting the customer service for help.

6. Eshopps Hang On Protein Skimmer PSK-75H

Next up is a device from a very well-reputed brand that is recommended by many customers. The Eshopps Hang On Protein Skimmer PSK-75H is one of the quietest options you will find, and it starts to skim immediately without taking time to fit in. The pump is placed under the skimmer outside its glass wall, and this reduces heat transfer to a great extent.