Having a 55-gallon fish tank means you can’t simply place it on any table. A 55-gallon tank is designed for bigger, more aggressive fish.

When filled with water, it carries as much as 550 pounds of water.

Do you really think all of this weight can be supported by a wooden table on its own?

Not a chance!

You need to find a fish tank stand specifically designed to hold a capacity as high as this.

This buying guide has been prepared to help you with choosing a ready-made 55-gallon fish tank stand from the best options available in the market.

However, this is not all you’ll get. A few interesting sections have also been provided to expand your knowledge about these ready-made stands.

Let’s begin!

Pros and Cons of Ready-Made Stands

Before we get into the details of a ready-made stand, you should know why it’s preferable to have one.

Pros

• The first major advantage of having a stand for your 55-gallon aquarium is the robust support it provides. You may find it hard to place a tank this huge on weak surfaces. This is true especially for acrylic aquariums. These types of tanks require strong bottom support, which a study table or side table may not be able to provide.
• Such a stand is built according to the dimensions of the fish tank it intends to uphold. You will come across tanks made specifically for 55-gallon aquariums, so there is that space-saving benefit as well. Plus, the fish aquarium will fit perfectly on the stand, disregarding any unwanted movement.
• A ready-made stand may be placed anywhere you deem fit. Hence, you can move the tank from time to time as you like. This may not be true if you have decided to use the kitchen slab or any other fixed place for keeping the aquarium. Thus, a ready-made stand offers you the much-needed flexibility and mobility.

Cons

• The major drawback of the ready-made stand is that it tends to be expensive. This is especially true for plywood stands.
• Wooden fish tank stands tend to be heavy, so flexibility and mobility can be quite challenging. However, this is only for a specific type of ready-made stand.
• As for metal options, you could have a hard time trying to match the fish tank stand with the surrounding décor. This can be a problem, especially for those who like to maintain a certain aesthetic in their surroundings.
• If you have a fish tank that supports over 70 gallons, you have limited options of ready-made stands to choose from. You will probably only find wooden options.

Types of Fish Tank Stands

Fish aquarium stands come in a variety of materials, shapes, and designs. The most common ones have been identified and discussed in the paragraphs that follow:

Wooden Stands

These tanks are usually preferred by aquatic enthusiasts looking to add value and beauty to their tanks. Not only do wooden fish tanks easily match your home décor, but they may also be used for other purposes.

Wooden tanks have been a popular choice for acrylic aquariums because in terms of support and robustness, these tanks fare exceptionally well. Moreover, with wooden stands, you get additional storage space with drawers and cabinets to keep accessories. Plus, wooden stands come in a variety of styles and finishes such as plywood and MDF.

Plywood stands cost more than other wooden stands, but they tend to be more durable than the latter. If you are considering placing a 55-gallon fish aquarium, plywood is the safest option.

As for MDF, it may not cost as much and will fit right in your budget, but it fails to handle saltwater aquariums. The humidity factor makes this wood material a poor choice, so you should look elsewhere if you have such an aquarium.

Wrought Iron Stands

Metal stands have remained a popular choice owing to their incredible affordability factor. Moreover, they are quite robust and provide excellent structural support to larger tanks weighing 55 gallons or more. However, metal fish tank stands are not very reliable for holding acrylic aquariums. They only support tanks with only edges and not a solid top.

The most common metal material used to design these stands is wrought iron. You may choose to bring home one of these stands if you are falling behind on budget and if you do not intend to match it with the surrounding furniture. However, make sure to place these tank stands in a low-traffic area because they tend to wobble more often, so bumping into them could be risky.

Mixed Media Stands

These tank stands combine wooden support and metal locking fasteners. Hence, you can use place acrylic aquariums on them, even the heavier ones! Given the dual material construction, these tanks tend to be costly. Furthermore, if you have an acrylic 55-gallon fish tank and want the home décor to match the aquarium stand, this option is the best one.

How to Choose a Ready-Made Stand

This is probably the most important section of the buying guide. Knowing how to effectively choose the right stand for your aquarium is imperative. Here’s a list of things you must take into account when making this informed decision:

General Specifications

When choosing an aquarium stand, there are several specifications to look for such as weight, size, shape/design and material.

• Size: It is essential to select a size that is larger than your fish tank so that it can easily hold it. Make sure to match the dimensions before making a decision.
• Weight: This is another important consideration. Make sure to go for a large, robust aquarium stand if you have a 55-gallon or higher capacity fish tank. It has to be sturdy and strong to support the required capacity.
• Shape/Design: This is based mostly on your personal preference. You can choose to bring home a double tank stand or one that is suitable for a single fish tank. This particular feature is for you to experiment with.
• Material: As already mentioned in the previous section, the choice of material depends on which pros and cons you are most comfortable with. For instance, if you have a large, acrylic fish tank, a wrought iron stand seems like a poor option.

Space Available

The next essential feature to consider is the space you have. If you are bringing in a large aquarium that has a 55-gallon capacity, you must consider space for its placement. Once this has been decided, you may be able to bring in a stand that fits in the allocated space. Your aquarium may require ample space for equipment, so the stand has to accommodate all of this. Make sure to choose a stand that complements the aquarium.

Setup

Installation or setup can be a challenging task, especially for amateur aquatic hobbyists. If it’s your very first time buying an aquarium and stand, you might want to bring home a stand that’s easy to set up.

A few metal stands come equipped with metal cam fittings that may be complicated to assemble. Avoid complex assemblies and go for something basic. Wooden stands are not as tricky as the rest, so it’s best for beginners.

Make sure to ask for expert assistance with setting up your choice of aquarium stand. You cannot risk installing it wrong, especially if it is intended to hold a capacity of 55 gallons.

Appropriate Height

This is another vital consideration when it comes to choosing the right aquarium stand. The height determines the visibility and accessibility aspects of the aquarium. Let’s suppose you have an aquarium that requires frequent water changes and cleaning. A higher stand will make reaching inside and on top of the aquarium quite the challenge.

If, however, you wish to keep kids away from reaching inside the tank, a higher stand may serve well. In such a case, choose a height that makes visibility and accessibility not that big of an issue while keeping the tank away from the reach of kids.

With or Without Canopy

This is an optional feature that you might or might not wish to consider. Now that rimless aquariums have become popular, canopies have lost their charm. However, if you have slightly aggressive fish that likes jumping out of the tank, a canopy can provide the much-needed restraint. You may also choose to use the canopy for securing the lighting unit on top.

The different types of canopies come in the following material options:

• Plastic
• Glass
• Wood

These are the most important features to consider when choosing the right aquarium stand. If you are also fond of aesthetics, color, finish, and overall appearance may also be accounted for when making this decision.

Precautions to Take Before Placing the Stand

Placement has to be done strategically. The stand placement is vital to keeping tropical fish healthy and happy within the aquarium. Since the focus of the article is on 55-gallon fish tanks, placement of such a tank cannot be taken casually! Here’s everything you must take into consideration while deciding on this factor:

#1. Floor Support Is Vital

This is fundamental for homes that have slightly raised foundations such that the bottom is supported with the help of pillars. You must choose strong floor support in the house to hold a 55-gallon fish tank.

You may have to check the support underneath before placing the stand. If it seems dubious, make sure to reinforce it and then go ahead with the placement. Don’t risk it because you are putting the lives of your fish in danger while endangering the floor and the support under it.

#2. Achieve Perfect Leveling

Be extra careful with the leveling. You may achieve perfect leveling with the help of a contractor’s level. You must place this on top of the stand and aquarium. The uneven pressure from distorted leveling can cause the aquarium to crack and shatter into a million pieces.

You may also achieve this by bringing home carpenter leveling shims in case the floor or stand is not perfectly aligned. These can help ensure that everything is stable and the tank does not move or wobble unnecessarily.

#3. Choose a Low-Traffic Area

Why is this point emphasized upon every now and then? It’s largely because of the safety precaution that becomes necessary with larger with a 55-gallon or higher capacity. You don’t wish to stress out the fish by keeping the tank in a noisy place or one where kids can easily access it, causing disturbance within the tank.

Constant activity in a room with the tank stand can make the fish quite stressed and unhappy. Furthermore, there’s the chance of someone bumping into the tank and knocking it down. Hence, avoid placing the stand in an area that is likely to have too many people, noise and activity.

#4. Ensure Ample Heating and Cooling

The room temperature must be sufficient for the survival of aquatic life within the aquariums, so place the stand wisely. The chosen location must have ample heating and cooling since temperature control is essential to the survival of fish and aquatic plants. Avoid placement in garage and basement and directly under air conditioning vents.

#5. Place Away from Direct Sunlight

Most importantly, avoid keeping the fish tank stand close to a window or door. Direct exposure to the sun can cause algae growth within the tank while stressing out the fish. Thus, make sure you have placed the tank away from sunlight but in a temperature-controlled environment.

Without these imperative stand placement precautions, you could end up destroying the aquarium and the aquatic life that inhabits it.

Top 10 55-Gallon Fish Tank Stands

In this section, you’ll be introduced to the best 55-gallon fish tank stands available in the market. Each one has its specifications, pros, and cons mentioned to make your purchase decision easier:

1. Aquatic Fundamentals Upright Aquarium Stand

This rectangular aquarium stand comes in a sturdy wooden construction to support a 50/65-gallon fish tank. It has been provided a moisture-resistant coating to protect the stand from high moisture. Moreover, the black powder coating has been put in place to ensure an elegant finish to the stand while preventing potential water damage.

Not only does this wooden stand make for a supportive and durable furniture piece, but it also improves the overall look of the room. It also comes equipped with sufficient storage space to keep all aquarium essentials handy.

Specifications

• Material: MDF
• Color: Black
• Dimensions: 19.4 x 37.4 x 28.2 inches
• Capacity: 50-65 Gallons
• Weight: 88.8 pounds

Pros

• It comes with a moisture-resistant finish
• It’s a beautiful furniture piece that adds to the beauty of the place
• It’s durable and provides strong support, especially to acrylic fish tanks
• The storage space is a brilliant add-on

Cons

• It may not be too easy to assemble since the instructions are lengthy
• It has been made using MDF, so you may not be able to use it for saltwater aquariums.

2. Imagitarium Brooklyn Metal Tank Stand

This one has been designed by Imagitarium to hold up a 55-gallon fish aquarium. It features a body made from durable steel that has been finished off with a black coating. The steel material means that the stand won’t rot unlike wooden material, but any water splashed on it must be wiped off.

The design features an open style, where no storage space has been provided. It also features adjustable feet. These have been made using a solid steel and rubber combination.

Specifications

• Material: Steel
• Color: Black
• Dimensions: 48.5 x 13.5 x 29.5 inches
• Capacity: 55 gallons
• Weight: 34.5 pounds

Pros

• It features a durable and strong construction that may hold up more than 550 pounds
• Its powder-coated finishing makes it resistant to moisture
• The adjustable feet may be used to bring the stand to an optimal level prior to mounting the tank
• It comes at an affordable price
• It requires basic assembly

Cons

• It is suitable for glass tanks only
• The appearance is largely functional, missing the style element
• The finish is not resistant to scratches

3. Aquatic Fundamentals Scroll Aquarium Stand

This is another stand from the same brand featuring a durable and sturdy metal construction. It comes equipped with a moisture-resistant design that has a powder-coated finishing to it. A few splashes of water on its surface won’t cause corrosion, which is a common problem with wooden stands.

Moreover, it has a classic scroll design, allowing you to add a beautiful furniture piece to adorn the living area. The construction features solid steel, which provides the much-needed durability feature to hold up tanks with large capacities.

Specifications

• Material: Metal
• Color: Black
• Dimensions: 48.3 x 27.8 x 12.5 inches
• Capacity: 55 gallons
• Weight: 28 pounds

Pros

• It features an elegant design that makes it perfect in a room with classic interior
• It provides sturdy support to large tanks
• It comes in a number of sizes, ranging from 10 gallons all the way to 55 gallons
• Its moisture-resistant finish adds to its overall durability
• It allows a basic assembly process
• It does not take as much space as other wooden stands

Cons

• The metal stand works well for glass aquariums
• It fails to provide bottom support to an acrylic fish tank
• It provides no storage space for aquarium essentials

4. Aqua Culture Deluxe Aquarium Stand

Here’s another classic design for a 55-gallon aquarium stand from Aqua Culture. This tank stand is best for acrylic aquariums since a complete bottom support is ensured. Moreover, the storage space provided behind the hinged doors can be used to house aquarium accessories such as canister filters, sumps, and fish food.

The design features a moisture-resistant finish and powder coating that protects the stand from water splashes and high moisture content at any particular time.

You may choose to customize the door color, which features black on one side and cherry red on the other. Lastly but most importantly, the material features mixed media, so it’s pricy!

Specifications

• Material: Mixed media
• Color: Black and cherry red
• Dimensions: 14.2 x 48.8 x 27.8 inches
• Capacity: 55 gallons

Pros

• It requires basic and simple assembly
• It comes equipped with reversible doors
• There is ample storage space with the front cabinets
• This fish tank stand is best for mounting acrylic aquariums
• Its moisture-resistant finish makes it less vulnerable to high moisture content and humidity caused by the aquarium

Cons

• It does not feature adjustable feet for leveling
• Mixed media designs are slightly overpriced

5. Ameriwood Home Harbor Aquarium Stand

This one features particleboard and MDF to hold up a weight capacity as high as 900 pounds. Hence, you can have absolute peace of mind knowing that you have placed a 55-gallon tank on top of a stand that has a much higher capacity.

The material used in the construction of this aquarium stand provides unmatched support to your aquarium, especially to one made from acrylic. Furthermore, there is a sufficient storage capacity provided within the stand to keep aquarium accessories and essentials handy. This is provided by two closed cabinets and a middle open compartment. The open compartment could be adorned with decorations to complement the room.

Specifications

• Material: MDF
• Color: Black
• Dimensions: 50 x 19.6 x 30.3 inches
• Capacity: 50-75 gallons
• Weight: 110 pounds

Pros

• It comes with ample storage space for keeping all accessories within reach
• It may be used for tanks that have a higher capacity than 55 gallons
• The use of particleboard and MDF makes it quite the sturdy aquarium stand, suitable for acrylic aquariums
• It comes equipped with a 1-year workmanship warranty
• It is available in 3 colors: Black, Espresso and Rustic Oak

Cons

• Assembly is not as simple as indicated
• There is no mention of moisture-resistant finishing, so water damage is likely

6. Ameriwood Home Wildwood Aquarium Stand

This one also comes from the renowned brand Ameriwood and features a somewhat unique design. It has been made to add style and elegance to an otherwise boring room. The construction features wood veneer and laminated particleboard, which has been further adorned with metal hardware accents.

There is ample storage space provided with the two cabinets given in the front. There is a total of 4 doors, meaning that the shelves are spacious enough to keep most of the aquarium accessories such as fish food, nets, water treatment, and maintenance kit. The rustic vibe from this sturdy looking aquarium stand is like no other.

Specifications

• Material: Wood
• Color: Rustic Gray
• Dimensions: 50 x 30 x 15.8 inches
• Shelf capacity: 15 pounds each
• Capacity: 55 gallons
• Weight: 113.1 pounds

Pros

• This aquarium stand is available in 3 different colors: Rustic Gray, Rustic White, and Espresso
• It provides full support to an acrylic aquarium
• It comes equipped with spacious cabinets to store away all aquarium essentials and accessories
• It features a sturdy and elegant design that adds value to your existing home décor

Cons

• The assembly requires effort and is not as simple as claimed
• Wooden material is more prone to rotting due to a high moisture content
• It’s quite expensive

7. Perfecto Manufacturing Pedestal Stand

Featuring the most basic design, this aquarium stand comes from Perfecto Manufacturing and can hold up a 55-gallon fish tank. It has been constructed with the help of pinewood, thus providing strong support for large aquariums, including those made from acrylics.

It features a single door in the front and hollow space given at the back to conceal the aquarium filter and other accessories. This cabinet allows keeping the necessary aquarium essentials within reach at all times.

The height is just right for reaching over the top of the aquarium for cleaning and changing the water. This simple aquarium stand does not take up much space in your living space but adds value to the existing home decor.

Specifications

• Material: Pinewood
• Color: Brown
• Dimensions: 76 x 122 x 33 cm
• Capacity: 55 gallons

Pros

• It comes fully assembled
• This fish tank stand is best for mounting acrylic aquariums
• The pedestal is useful for concealing cords, tubing, and wires

Cons

• It does not feature adjustable feet for leveling
• It does not provide spacious cabinet space
• It is slightly overpriced

8. Caitec Double Aquarium Stand

This stand is probably the most unique out of all the stands that have been mentioned here. It may be used to hold up 2 fish tanks simultaneously. It features a solid metal construction that provides outer support to the edges but lacks full support at the bottom that is required to withstand acrylic fish tanks.

Both tanks may weigh up to 55 gallons, but the dimensions must match so that it fits into the lower section.

The best thing about this sturdy aquarium stand is that it does not take much space if placed in a small room. Furthermore, it can support two tanks for the price of one stand.

Specifications

• Material: Metal
• Color: Black
• Dimensions: 50.5 x 32 x 13 inches
• Interior opening dimensions: 46 ½ x 11 ¼ inches
• Capacity: 55 gallons
• Weight: 21 pounds

Pros

• It features a durable and strong construction to hold up 550 pounds and 2 tanks simultaneously
• Its powder-coated finishing makes it resistant to moisture
• It comes at an affordable price
• It requires basic assembly

Cons

• It is may not be ideal for acrylic aquariums
• The appearance is largely functional and not as elegant as intended
• The finish is not resistant to scratches

9. Aquatic Fundamentals Mixed Media Series

This modern aquarium stand from Aquatic Fundamentals comes in a moisture-resistant powder coating. You will not have to worry about water splashing onto its surface; just make sure to wipe it clean.

It includes a unique design, featuring open shelves on both sides as well as in the middle. This may be used to store aquarium essentials but in plain sight. It also features metal-to-metal locking cam assembly that provides durability to the stand.

This aquarium stand is a must-have if you are all for distinctive styles and elegant home décor. It also comes at quite an affordable price for the exquisite design.

Specifications

• Material: MDF
• Color: Black
• Dimensions: 14.5 x 49.5 x 27.9 inches
• Capacity: 55 gallons
• Weight: 87.6 pounds

Pros

• It is an inexpensive purchase
• It enables an easy and basic assembly
• It comes equipped with spacious open shelves and drawers
• It features a metal-to-metal locking assembly system
• It has a unique design that adds value to your home interior

Cons

• It does not come equipped with adjustable feet

10. Marco 55 Gallon Upright Stand

Made from dense fiberboard, this aquarium stand provides full support to a 55-gallon aquarium. The most important feature of wooden stands is that they are ideal for holding up acrylic aquariums. Hence, if you own an acrylic 55-gallon aquarium, this one would be the perfect option for you.

It features a melamine laminate finish that is waterproof, so you don’t have to worry if a few water splashes land onto the stand surface. The metal-to-metal locking cams allow reliable assembly, so it won’t wobble a lot in the case of bumping.

Another exceptional feature of this wooden stand is the storage provided in those large openings. You can essentially store away all aquarium accessories.

Specifications

• Material: Dense fiberboard and melamine laminate
• Color: Oak
• Dimensions: 49.37 x 13.12 x 28.25 inches
• Capacity: 55 gallons
• Weight: 80 pounds

Pros

• It is available in 3 colors: Black, Oak and Cherry
• It ensures full support to an acrylic aquarium and all other types as well
• It comes equipped with spacious cabinets to store away all aquarium essentials and accessories
• It features a sturdy and elegant design that adds value to your existing home décor

Cons

• It is slightly overpriced
• It does not feature adjustable feet for leveling

Dos and Don’ts of Aquarium Stands

In addition to the aforementioned precautions regarding the placement of your fish tank stand, here is a quick do and don’ts list to consider:

Do

• Place the aquarium stand close to power outlets
• Place the stand within easy access for cleaning, frequent water changes, and regular maintenance
• Place the stand on a sturdy and level surface
• Place the stand out of reach of children

Don’t

• Place it in loud and noisy places
• Place it in rooms with extreme temperatures
• Place it in an apartment or room that is not suitable for tanks as large as the 55-gallon capacity
• Place it where mobility may be hindered

Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Fish Aquarium Stand

If you wish to avoid ending up regretting your purchase decision, it’s advisable to go through the following mistakes and try to remain far away from them:

Not Considering the View

This is where the height factor comes into play. One of the major mistakes that people make when buying fish tank stands is regarding the view. A stand must allow the type of aquarium it holds to be viewed as intended. A higher or lower stand can make visibility challenging and not as fun as it ought to be if the tank is made for a different configuration.

Make sure you are well aware of the type of fish tank you own. Is it one that is made to be viewed while standing up or sitting down? Once this has been established, choose the stand height accordingly.

Not Protecting the Stand

This has already been mentioned in the preceding sections but counts as another essential mistake that one must avoid while choosing a fish tank stand. If you have chosen a wooden stand, make sure it’s properly sealed to prevent damaging its finish.

Moreover, if you have set your mind on getting an acrylic aquarium, get an acrylic aquarium stand for support to avoid taking risks.

Metal stands also tend to be reactive to high moisture content, leading to corrosion. With such a stand, you need to make sure you wipe off water as soon as it gets on the stand.

Focusing Entirely on the Looks

It’s worth mentioning that looks should not take precedence in this crucial purchase decision. While appearance or style is essential, other features are equally important and maybe even more so.

For instance, you may require storage space to keep a few essentials handy. These may include filters, pumps, food, and maintenance kit. Thus, you might need an aquarium stand that offers space for storage. Wooden stands usually come equipped with cabinets and drawers that may be used to keep a few of these essentials within reach.

Make sure you focus on these features and not just appearance when selecting a fish tank stand.

Fish Tank Stands FAQs

Let’s explore a few common questions that may still exist in your mind regarding aquarium stands. This section aims to provide quick solutions to these queries and confusions you might have.

1. What Is the Ideal Stand Height?

The ideal stand height is one that provides a standing or sitting view of the aquarium. The tank is usually suites to either one of these positions, so choose a height that matches its requirements. Otherwise, you might end up with an aquarium stand that is too high or too low.

Moreover, the height must be such that it allows you to access the tank for cleaning and changing the water. Thus, there is no ideal height and it varies based on your requirements.

2. How Much Does a Standard Aquarium Stand Cost?

A standard aquarium stand will cost you something around $100. It may cost more or less depending on the features such as material, style, and storage. For instance, wooden stands are slightly more expensive than metal stands. Mixed media stands may cost you even more than the other two material types.

3. Do You Require a Stand for All Tank Sizes?

A stand is a must-have for large aquariums, especially ones that come with a capacity of 55 gallons or higher.

However, you may still choose to get a stand for smaller aquariums, despite its manageable weight and size, based on your personal preferences or lack of space. If you do not have sufficient space to keep the fish tank on the existing furniture, it’s always a good idea to add another sturdy and elegant piece of furniture to embellish the living space.

It’s a matter of choice for smaller tanks but a necessity for larger ones.

4. What Are the Best-Selling Brands in the Market for Aquarium Stands?

The best-selling brands of aquarium stands comprise of the following:

• Ameriwood Home
• Aquatic Fundamentals
• Aqueon
• Fluval
• Imagitarium
• Aqua Culture

5. What Are the Pros and Cons of Metal Stands?

Metal aquarium stands come bearing the following pros and cons:

Pros

• They are affordable
• They need simple assembly
• These stands are not too large, hence occupying less space

Cons

• They usually have a simple appearance, nothing too elegant
• They are usually hard to match with the existing home décor
• These stands wobble, so try not to bump into them
• They are not suitable for holding up large aquariums

6. What Are the Pros and Cons of Wooden Stands?

Wooden aquarium stands come bearing the following pros and cons:

Pros

• They come in a variety of styles and are easy to match with the existing home décor
• They are less likely to wobble or topple over
• These stands are best suited for acrylic tanks that need solid bottom support
• They come equipped with ample storage space for keeping aquarium essentials within reach

Cons

• They are slightly overpriced
• Wooden stands are heavier, so mobility is hindered

Final Thoughts

Hopefully, you have now understood all aspects of choosing an aquarium stand including the features to look for, mistakes to avoid and precautions to be aware of regarding placement. You might have even chosen an aquarium stand from the top 10 options given here based on your choice of features and specifications. Just make sure to match dimensions of your aquarium with the dimensions of the stand because this could pose a real struggle.

Still have questions?  Be sure to visit the community forums.