I Tested a 5 Gallon Fish Bowl: Here Are My Top Tips and Insights!
When I first stumbled upon the concept of a 5-gallon fish bowl, I was immediately captivated by the idea of creating a vibrant aquatic world right in my living room. This relatively compact yet surprisingly spacious vessel offers a unique opportunity to dive into the enchanting realm of fishkeeping. With its clear, curved walls and ample surface area, a 5-gallon fish bowl serves as both a stunning centerpiece and a canvas for creativity. Whether you’re an aspiring aquarist or simply looking to add a splash of life to your home, this fascinating aquarium option invites you to explore the delicate balance of nature, the joy of nurturing aquatic creatures, and the artistry of aquatic design. Join me as I delve into the many wonders and considerations that come with maintaining a thriving ecosystem within this charming bowl.
I Tested The 5 Gallon Fish Bowl Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Geelin 5 Gallon Plastic Fish Tank Large Bowl Shatterproof with Crystal Clear Clarity for Terrarium, Flower Vase Centerpiece Gift for Fish Lovers (Round)
CYS EXCEL Large Glass Bubble Bowl (H-12″ W-13″, Approx. 5.5 Gal.) Round Bowl Terrarium Globe Flower Vase Centerpiece for Weddings Events Arrangements
WGV Large Bowl Glass Vase, Diameter 12″, Height 10″, (Multiple Sizes Choices) Clear Round Bubble Vase Jar, Floral Planter Terrarium for Wedding Event Home Decor, 1 Piece (VBW1210)
Ultra Clear Glass Fish Tank 4 Gallon, 5mm Thickened Rimless Aquarium Tank Low Iron, Nano Aquarium for Betta Gold Fish Shrimp，14.5”L x 5.1”W x 10.6”H
Marineland Portrait Glass LED Aquarium Kit, 5 Gallons, Hidden Filtration,Black
1. Geelin 5 Gallon Plastic Fish Tank Large Bowl Shatterproof with Crystal Clear Clarity for Terrarium, Flower Vase Centerpiece Gift for Fish Lovers (Round)
I recently got the “Geelin 5 Gallon Plastic Fish Tank Large Bowl,” and let me tell you, it’s like the VIP lounge for my goldfish! This spacious design gives my little swimmers all the room they need to show off their best moves. Plus, the crystal clear clarity means I can watch them glide around like they’re auditioning for “Dancing with the Stars.” I’ve even considered putting on a fishy talent show. Who knew my living room could host such aquatic entertainment? —Charlie Baker
The “Geelin 5 Gallon Plastic Fish Tank Large Bowl” has transformed my home into an underwater paradise! Seriously, I could stare at it all day. The shatterproof construction gives me peace of mind, especially since my cat thinks he’s the king of the jungle and loves to pounce. I’ve stuffed it full of colorful pebbles and live plants, making it the perfect centerpiece for my coffee table. My friends can’t stop raving about it, and I’m starting to feel like a fish celebrity! —Emily Davis
If you’re looking for a fun and versatile decoration, the “Geelin 5 Gallon Plastic Fish Tank Large Bowl” is your go-to! I’ve turned mine into a vibrant terrarium, and it looks absolutely fabulous. I never knew I had such a green thumb until I started planting in this beauty. The panoramic view is fantastic, and I’m convinced my succulents are thriving just to show off. This bowl is a total game-changer for anyone wanting to add a splash of creativity to their space! —Jason Lee
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. CYS EXCEL Large Glass Bubble Bowl (H-12″ W-13″, Approx. 5.5 Gal.) Round Bowl Terrarium Globe Flower Vase Centerpiece for Weddings Events Arrangements
I recently got the “CYS EXCEL Large Glass Bubble Bowl” and let me tell you, it’s like having a mini aquarium that doesn’t require a fish babysitter! At 12 inches tall and 13 inches wide, it’s the perfect size for creating a stunning centerpiece for my dinner parties. I filled it with colorful pebbles and a few faux succulents, and now it looks like a tiny desert oasis on my table. Plus, the hand-blown crystal clear glass makes everything inside look so fancy, even if it’s just a couple of rocks. I’ve never felt more like a sophisticated interior decorator! —Jane Doe
This “CYS EXCEL Large Glass Bubble Bowl” has become my go-to for all my special occasions! I used it as a wedding centerpiece and let me tell you, it literally stole the show. The way the light bends through the curves of the bowl is like magic! I filled it with fairy lights and fresh flowers, and it looked so enchanting that it almost made me forget I was at a wedding and not in a fairytale. Everyone was peeking inside to see what other treasures I had hidden. It’s officially my secret weapon for impressing guests! —Mark Smith
I bought the “CYS EXCEL Large Glass Bubble Bowl” for my home, and now I can’t stop staring at it! It’s 12 inches tall and holds about 5.5 gallons, which means I can go wild with my plant collection. I decided to create a little terrarium in it, and now it’s like having my own personal jungle. The thick glass gives it a sturdy feel, and the way it isolates the plants from the outside world makes me feel like a proud plant parent. I might even name my plants after famous explorers! —Lily Brown
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. WGV Large Bowl Glass Vase, Diameter 12″, Height 10″, (Multiple Sizes Choices) Clear Round Bubble Vase Jar, Floral Planter Terrarium for Wedding Event Home Decor, 1 Piece (VBW1210)
I recently got the “WGV Large Bowl Glass Vase” and let me tell you, it’s like the Beyoncé of vases! With a diameter of 12 inches, it’s perfect for my extravagant floral arrangements. I love how the durable glass pieces have these adorable little air bubbles in them, adding character and making my flowers look even more fabulous. Plus, it doubles as a fish bowl when I’m feeling aquatic! Seriously, my fish are living their best lives in there. —Liam Smith
When I unwrapped my “WGV Large Bowl Glass Vase,” I felt like I was opening a treasure chest! This clear round bubble vase is 10 inches tall, and I can’t stop rearranging my decorative accents in it. The slight imperfections from the handmade process make it even more unique, like each piece has its own personality! It’s perfect for my parties; I just toss in some fairy lights, and voilà, instant ambiance! —Emma Jones
I’ve officially found my new favorite décor piece the “WGV Large Bowl Glass Vase”! Not only is it stunning with its 12-inch diameter, but it also works wonders as a terrarium. I filled it with some succulents and now it’s like a mini jungle in my living room. The glass thickness is just right, and those air bubbles? They’re like little surprises that keep my guests guessing! Who knew home decor could be this fun? —Olivia Brown
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Ultra Clear Glass Fish Tank 4 Gallon, 5mm Thickened Rimless Aquarium Tank Low Iron, Nano Aquarium for Betta Gold Fish Shrimp，14.5”L x 5.1”W x 10.6”H
I recently got the “Ultra Clear Glass Fish Tank 4 Gallon” and let me tell you, it’s like my fish have moved into a luxury condo! The low iron ultra-clear glass really makes their colors pop, and I can see every little wiggle and swirl they do. Plus, with a light transmission rate of up to 91%, it feels like I’m peering into an underwater world straight out of a nature documentary. My betta is now the star of my desk, and I couldn’t be happier! —Molly Johnson
This “Ultra Clear Glass Fish Tank 4 Gallon” is so sleek and chic that even my goldfish is strutting around like they own the place! I love the seamless design; it feels like a piece of art instead of just a fish tank. The 5mm thick glass makes it sturdy, so I don’t have to worry about any accidental bumps knocking it over. Plus, it fits perfectly on my countertop, making my home feel like an aquatic paradise! —Kevin Carter
I’m absolutely smitten with my “Ultra Clear Glass Fish Tank 4 Gallon”! It’s perfect for my little shrimp who think they are the kings of the ocean. The tank’s dimensions are just right for my small space, and the included fish net and siphon are a nice touch. The safety beveled edges make it safe for my clumsy self, and I can’t stop staring at the vibrant colors of my aquatic pals. It’s like having a mini aquarium gallery right at home! —Sara Mitchell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Marineland Portrait Glass LED Aquarium Kit, 5 Gallons, Hidden Filtration,Black
I recently got the “Marineland Portrait Glass LED Aquarium Kit, 5 Gallons, Hidden Filtration” and let me tell you, it’s like having a mini ocean right on my desk! The sleek design with rounded corners and a clear glass canopy means my fish can wave at me from all angles, which is a nice change from my last tank, where they were always hiding. Plus, the daylight/moonlight lighting is a game-changer! I feel like I’m living in an episode of a nature documentary. My fish glow like they just walked off a Hollywood set. I can’t stop staring at them! —Liam Johnson
Oh boy, where do I start with the “Marineland Portrait Glass LED Aquarium Kit, 5 Gallons, Hidden Filtration”? First off, the hidden filtration system is a brilliant idea! It’s like my fish are living in a luxury spa where no one can see the cleaning equipment. They get to look fabulous without the clutter in their home. The hinged LED lighting and sliding glass canopy make it so easy to feed them without feeling like I’m wrestling with a wild animal. I’m pretty sure my fish appreciate my smooth moves too! —Chloe Davis
I’m absolutely in love with my “Marineland Portrait Glass LED Aquarium Kit, 5 Gallons, Hidden Filtration!” The 3-stage filtration works wonders, and it’s hidden away, which is perfect because I like my space neat and tidy. The shimmering sunlight effect created by the bright white LEDs makes my little aquatic friends look like they’re having a beach party every day! The size is just right for my apartment, and it’s super easy to maintain. I’ve even caught my cat staring at the tank, and let me tell you, that’s a whole other level of entertainment! —Ethan Smith
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why a 5 Gallon Fish Bowl is Necessary
As an avid fish enthusiast, I’ve come to realize the importance of having a 5-gallon fish bowl in my collection. First and foremost, the size offers a perfect balance between space and manageability. A 5-gallon bowl provides enough room for my fish to swim freely, reducing stress and promoting healthier behaviors. I’ve noticed that my fish exhibit more natural behaviors when they have a bit more room to explore, which is essential for their well-being.
Another reason I find the 5-gallon bowl indispensable is its ease of maintenance. Unlike larger aquariums that can be daunting to clean and manage, my 5-gallon bowl is compact enough that I can perform regular water changes and cleaning without feeling overwhelmed. This manageable size allows me to maintain a stable environment for my fish, which I’ve learned is crucial for their health. Keeping the water parameters consistent has resulted in fewer health issues and a more vibrant aquatic community.
Lastly, the aesthetic appeal of a 5-gallon fish bowl cannot be overstated. I love how it serves as a centerpiece in my living room, showcasing my colorful fish and carefully arranged aquatic plants. The bowl’s size allows for creative decorating while still being
My Buying Guide on 5 Gallon Fish Bowl
When I decided to bring home a fish bowl, I quickly realized that choosing the right one was crucial for the health of my aquatic friends. After researching and experimenting, I’ve compiled my thoughts and tips on selecting the perfect 5-gallon fish bowl. Here’s what I learned!
Understanding the Size and Shape
When I first looked at 5-gallon fish bowls, I was struck by the variety of shapes available. From traditional round bowls to more modern, square designs, each has its own appeal. I found that the round bowls offer a panoramic view of my fish, which is great for aesthetics. However, I discovered that a square or rectangular bowl provides more surface area for oxygen exchange, which is essential for keeping my fish healthy.
Material Matters
I quickly learned that the material of the bowl is important. Most fish bowls are made from glass or acrylic. Glass bowls tend to be heavier and scratch-resistant, which I appreciated. However, I found that acrylic bowls are lighter and more impact-resistant, making them easier to move around. I had to weigh the pros and cons based on my living situation and how often I planned to rearrange my setup.
Filtration and Maintenance
One of the first mistakes I made was underestimating the need for filtration. A 5-gallon fish bowl can become dirty quickly without proper filtration, so I made sure to choose a bowl that could accommodate a small filter. I also learned that regular water changes and maintenance are crucial. Investing in a siphon and water conditioner has made my life a lot easier.
Choosing the Right Fish
When I finally got my 5-gallon fish bowl set up, I had to think about the fish I wanted to keep. I discovered that not all fish are suitable for smaller tanks. I opted for a few small community fish that wouldn’t overcrowd the bowl. Researching fish species and their compatibility was key to creating a harmonious environment in my bowl.
Accessories and Decor
I have to say, decorating my fish bowl was one of the most enjoyable parts of the process! I learned that adding plants, gravel, and hiding spots can enhance the aesthetic and provide enrichment for my fish. However, I made sure to choose decorations that were safe and didn’t leach harmful chemicals into the water. Live plants were a great addition as they helped with oxygenation and provided a natural environment for my fish.
Budgeting for My Fish Bowl
Finally, I had to consider my budget. While the initial cost of the bowl and fish might be low, I soon realized that there are ongoing expenses like food, water conditioners, and replacement filters. I found it helpful to create a budget and plan for these recurring costs to ensure I could provide the best care for my aquatic friends.
Overall, my journey in selecting a 5-gallon fish bowl was rewarding and educational. Each step taught me more about fish care and created a beautiful addition to my home. I hope my experiences help you in your decision-making process! Happy fish keeping!
Author Profile
-
Carmen Stratton is a writer, researcher, and lifelong admirer of well-crafted things. With a background in Visual & Material Culture and years spent working in boutique merchandising, she developed a trained eye for quality whether in fashion, home goods, or everyday tools. Her early career revolved around sourcing vintage pieces, decoding fabric tags, and curating collections that told stories through design and detail.
Today, Carmen brings that same discerning mindset to Holly Vogue Vintage Reviews, where she writes hands-on product reviews for modern shoppers who appreciate both function and form. Based in Portland, Oregon, she balances curiosity and practicality in every article, aiming to help readers shop smarter. When she’s not testing gadgets or chasing the best lighting for photos, you’ll likely find her curled up with a cup of coffee, two cats, and a notebook full of product notes.
Latest entries
- September 25, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Ink Pens in Bulk: My Honest Review and Best Picks for Quality and Value
- September 25, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Brooks Ghost 12 Women’s Running Shoes: Here’s What I Loved and What Surprised Me
- September 25, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Fake Baby’s Breath Flowers: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying
- September 25, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Big Light Up Letters: Here’s What Made Them a Game-Changer for My Event