Is a small aquarium harder to maintain than a large one?

A poorly designed small tank can be challenging, but a properly designed desktop aquarium is very manageable. PNW Custom tanks are specifically built to help maintain stable water conditions, and because the water volume is smaller, maintenance is quicker and more predictable. Many beginners find small tanks easier to stay consistent with long-term than larger systems.

What size aquarium should I choose?

PNW Custom aquariums are specifically engineered for desktop setups, with built-in filtration and carefully selected components to make success easier in smaller volumes. Choose your aquarium size based on your space, goals, and interests:

What comes included with a PNW Custom aquarium kit?

Each PNW Custom aquarium kit includes the core essentials needed to get started: Display tank Filtration system or media basket Return pump Aquarium light Evaporation cover or lid Leveling mat (on applicable models) Everything is selected to work together as a system, so beginners aren’t left guessing or mismatching equipment.

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New to Desktop Aquariums? You’re in the Right Place.

If you’ve never kept an aquarium before, or you’ve been curious but felt overwhelmed, you’re not alone. Aquariums can seem complicated at first, especially when you’re flooded with conflicting advice online. This page is designed to give you clarity, confidence, and realistic expectations so you can decide if a desktop aquarium is right for you and start off on the right foot.

What Is a Desktop Tank?

A desktop tank is a compact and designed to fit into everyday spaces like desks, countertops, shelves, offices, and apartments.

Unlike traditional large aquariums, desktop tanks focus on:

Stability through thoughtful design
Simple, repeatable maintenance
Carefully selected livestock
Enjoyment without constant adjustment

When done correctly, small aquariums aren’t “harder” than big tanks.

What Do I Need for a Successful Desktop Reef Tank?

Aquarium Kit

PNW Custom aquariums are sold as "kits" with all of the equipment you need. Everything is designed specifically for you to be successful long-term, so no need to upgrade later.

Rock & Sand

We have rockscapes and sand available at PNW Custom, or you can find it at your local fish store. Live sand and live rock is always best!

Water

Your reef aquarium needs saltwater and RODI water. For beginners, we recommend purchasing this at your local fish store and storing a few gallons to have on hand for water changes, top-offs, and maintenance.

Salinity Tester

Your most important parameters to test are your salinity and temperature. Keeping these consistent at 1.024-1.027 for salinity and 74-80 for temperature are essential for success. We recommend a Hanna Tester or refractometer.

Commonly Asked Questions

In most cases, you’ll just need a few basic extras: Saltwater (for saltwater setups) RODI water A salinity checker Livestock, sand, and rock when you’re ready For water, we recommend beginners purchase saltwater and RODI water from their local fish store to keep the process simple in the beginning. Water is inexpensive and lasts a long time for small aquariums. We provide setup guides, videos, and checklists to walk you through every step so you’re never left wondering what comes next.