Pet Supplies
Penn-Plax Cascade 170 Internal Aquarium Filter

Penn-Plax Cascade 170 Internal Aquarium Filter

By Penn-Plax 4 reviews analyzed Updated Oct 2023 85% confidence
3.5 /10
Quality
7.0
Value
6.0
Design
6.0
Function
6.5
Durability
6.0

In a Nutshell

  • Users appreciate its basic functionality and ability to be assist the filter in cleaning, but
  • Most problematic aspects aren't design shortcomings but rather are and matters of the ability to create current for overall tank cleaning
  • It seems unsuitable for betta fish due to strong flow settings

Quick Verdict

The Penn-Plax Cascade 170 Internal Aquarium Filter is functional but has limited adjustability and seems not to include all advertised features. It's suitable for certain types of fish but may not be ideal for betta fish.

Quick Stats

Reviews Analyzed 4
Would Recommend 25%
Would Buy Again 50%
Avg Lifespan Not mentioned

Pet Compatibility

🐕 Dogs
Caution
🐈 Cats
Caution

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Good functionality (1)

    Users find the filter effective in its basic function of cleaning the aquarium. Like sayingit gets the job done

  • Assists filter in aquarium cleaning (1)

    Users appreciate its ability to assist other filters in cleaning the tank.

Cons

  • Adjustable output issues (1) major

    The adjustable output feature does not perform as expected and was difficult to figure out

  • Lack of directional tube (1) major

    The directional tube, mentioned in the product description, is not included.

Who Is This For?

Best For

  • Turtle owners — Users find it works well for turtle aquariums.
  • Large Tanks — It works effectively in creating a required bottom current for tank cleaning making the cleaning of a turtle tank much easier.

Skip If

  • Betta fish owners — Users noted that the filter's strong flow is not suitable for betta fish.

Durability & Care

Expected Lifespan Not mentioned

Factors: Flow Adjustments

Cleaning Methods

Machine wash
Hand wash
Spot clean

Floor Compatibility

⚠️ Hardwood
⚠️ Tile
⚠️ Carpet
⚠️ Vinyl
⚠️ Laminate

Rating Distribution

3.8
4 reviews
5★
25%
4★
25%
3★
50%
2★
0%
1★
0%

Highlighted Reviews

— Nieto 3 found helpful

"Really great product..I use it for my turtle's aquarium..."

— Sandra

"I agree with what someone else said about this filter not being a good one for a Betta. The flow is much too strong and the lever on the side that is supposed to change/slow the flow, doesn't really. In the description of this filter it states that there is a directional tube that can be used with..."

Bottom Line

While it performs well as a filter, potential buyers should be aware of the limitations in flow control and the missing directional tube. It's a decent choice but not perfect especially for betta fish tanks .

3.5 /10
Average