If you are looking for a solid budget canister filter to keep your nano tanks (20 gallons or smaller) clean, then you should definitely consider using a SunSun Tech’n’Toy canister filter.
SunSun external canister filters are some of the best on the market, and they offer a variety of features that make them great for any fish keeper. Two products, in particular, stand out among the rest – the SunSun HW-602b and the SunSun HW-603b.
Unfortunately, some mixed information exists about how these two models work, so it can be tricky to decide which is best for your needs.
In this article, we’ll compare the SunSun HW-602b vs. HW-603b and help you make a smart decision.
SunSun HW-602b vs HW-603b
Let’s set the record straight. The SunSun HW-602b and the HW-603b work similarly except for the dimension- the HW-603B measures 6.5″ L X 6.5″ W X 11″ H, is a little larger than HW-602B (5.7″ L X 5.7″ W X 10″ H) so it can hold more media.
I would suggest HW-602b for tanks up to 10 gallons and HW-603b for tanks between 10 to 20 gallons. Since the price difference is rarely more than a couple of bucks, I recommend going with the HW-603B.
SunSun HW-602 Vs. HW-603
While the most confusing information is caused by the other two similarly named models available on the market: HW-602 and HW-603, the “b” designation means that these two models don’t come with a pump and power supply, so they can’t be run as a standalone filter. Instead, these models are commonly used as prefilters.
Similarly, the main difference between the HW-602 and HW-603 is that the HW-603 is a bit larger than the HW-602. The HW-603 measures 6.5″ L X 6.5″ W X 11″ H, while the HW-602 measures 5.7″ L X 5.7″ W X 10″ H.
Check out the following chart for a more detailed comparison of these sets of models.
| Model | Power | Flow | Hmax | I/O Hoses | Voltage | Dimension | Volume | Pump | Pipe&Tube |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HW-602 |  | | | 16/22 mm | 110V | 5.7″ x 5.7″ x 10″ | 0.5g | | |
| HW-602b | 6w | 106 GPH | 0.85m | 12/16 mm | 110V | 5.7″ x 5.7″ x 10″ | 0.5g |  | |
| HW-603 | | | | 16/22 mm | 110V | 6.5″ x 6.5″ x 11″ | 0.7g | | |
| HW-603b | 6w | 106 GPH | 0.85m | 12/16 mm | 110V | 6.5″ x 6.5″ x 11″ | 0.7g | | |
SunSun HW-603b Review
One of the most affordable small canister filters on the market today, the SunSun HW-603B canister filter has a passionate fan base – something that few other filters in this price range can boast of such consistently good reviews.
Aquarium owners love the SunSun HW-603B for its quiet operation, easy maintenance, and ability to provide a high level of filtration for their nano tanks.
Sure, the price tag is low, but that doesn’t mean that this filter skimps on features or quality. In fact, the SunSun HW-603B boasts several features that you’d expect to find on more expensive filters.
Is SunSun HW-603b for You?
- Good for up to 20 gallon fish tanks
- Dimension: 6.5" L X 6.5" W X 11" H
- Flow rate: 106 GPH (400L/hr.)
- Pump Power: 6W
- Includes filter pads, hoses and all parts to get started
There’s no shortage of canister filters for small tanks on the market these days. Whether you’re looking for a filter for your 5-gallon nano tank or 20-gallon aquarium, you’ve got plenty of options. But with so many choices, deciding which filter is right for you can be tough.
There is, however, a severe shortage of canister filters that offer high-quality filtration at an affordable price. The SunSun HW-603B is one of the few filters that fit this bill, and it’s a great choice for anyone who wants to keep their small tank clean without breaking the bank.
The cost of fish keeping can quickly add up, especially if you want to maintain a healthy and vibrant fish tank. But the SunSun HW-603B is an affordable option that doesn’t sacrifice quality or features.
What We Like About SunSun HW-603b
Apart from the best price, there’s a lot to love when it comes to the SunSun HW-603b.
For starters, this canister filter is easy to set up and maintain and offers features typically only found on more expensive filters.
Like the Marineland Magniflow Filter, its 3-Stage Filtration System with mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration. This ensures that your water is kept clean and clear, and it also helps to create a healthy environment for your fish.
For the fish keeper, one of the most important things to consider when choosing a filter is how quiet it will be. No one wants a filter that’s going to disrupt the peace and quiet of their fish tank with a constant humming noise. That’s why the SunSun HW-603B is such a great choice – it’s not just quiet. It’s really (REALLY) quiet!
In terms of flow rate, the SunSun HW-603B is rated for up to 106 gallons per hour, which is more than enough to keep most small tanks clean and clear, and it’s a pretty impressive flow rate for a filter in this price range.
Finally, we also like that this filter comes with all the necessary hoses and attachments, so you won’t need to go out and buy anything extra.
What We Don’t Like About SunSun HW-603b
This is not to suggest that SunSun HW-603b is perfect, though.
Because this filter is so affordable, some aquarium owners have found that it doesn’t last as long as more expensive filters.
So, while it might be a great choice for someone just starting out in the hobby, experienced aquarium owners may want to invest in a higher-quality filter that will last longer and require less maintenance.
Some owners report that they had seals failing and water leaked out of the filter. So, if you do decide to go with the SunSun HW-603B, be sure to keep an eye on it and perform regular maintenance to ensure that it’s running smoothly.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Cheap Price 2. Excellent Canister filter for nano tanks 3. Quiet 4. Decent flow rate 5. Easy to clean | 1. Poorly made 2. Has leaking problem 3. Might not be powerful for a 20 g tank |
Specs
- Good for 10 to 20 gallons fish tanks
- Dimension: 5.7″ L X 5.7″ W X 10″ H
- Flow rate: 106 GPH (400L/hr)
- Pump Power: 6W
- Voltage: 110V
- Inlet and outlet hoses: 12/16 mm
- Hose Length: 5 Feet
- Fit for a rimmed tank: Yes
What’s Included?
- Input and output discreteness.
- Barrel head.
- Water pump.
- Water inlet connector with flow control valve.
- Upper filter board.
- Under filter board.
- Input curvy bar.
- Output curvy bar.
- Spray bars.
- Water outlet.
- Input bars.
- Input cover.
- Coarse filter sponge.
- Suction cup.
Unsurprisingly, HW-603b includes everything – EVERYTHING – you need to get this filter up and running.
Wrapping Up
By now we hope you not only know the difference between SunSun HW-602b Vs. HW-603b, but also know which one of these two filters is the better choice for your needs.
If you’re still not sure, take another look at our side-by-side comparison chart. And, if you have any questions we haven’t answered here, please feel free to reach out to us, and we’ll be happy to help.
Happy fish keeping!
