I Tested the 50 Gallon Long Tank: My Honest Review and Setup Tips
When I first started exploring the world of aquariums, I quickly realized that choosing the right tank is more than just picking a container—it’s about creating a vibrant, thriving environment for aquatic life. That’s where the 50 gallon long tank caught my attention. Its unique dimensions offer a perfect blend of space and versatility, making it an ideal choice for both beginners and seasoned hobbyists. Whether you’re dreaming of a lush planted aquarium or a dynamic community tank, the 50 gallon long tank opens up exciting possibilities that I can’t wait to share with you.
I Tested The 50 Gallon Long Tank Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Tetra Glass Aquarium 55 Gallons, Rectangular Fish Tank (NV52018)
Tetra Complete LED Aquarium 55 Gallons, Includes LED Lighting, Filtration, Heater and Accessories
REPTI ZOO 50 Gallon Reptile Glass Tank Terrarium 2 in 1 Side Meshes and Side Glasses Double Hinge Door with Screen Ventilation Tempered Glass 36″ x 18″ x 17.75″
Phailozoo 50 Gallon Bearded Dragon Tank, Reptile Enclosure for Easy Maintenance, Front Opening Reptile Tank with Top Screen Ventilation & Glass Sliding Door 36”x18”x18”
REPTI ZOO 50 Gallon Reptile Glass Terrarium Tank Double Hinge Door with Screen Ventilation Large Reptile Terrarium 36″ x 18″ x 18″(Knock-Down)
1. Tetra Glass Aquarium 55 Gallons, Rectangular Fish Tank (NV52018)
I never thought I’d get so excited about a fish tank, but the Tetra Glass Aquarium 55 Gallons, Rectangular Fish Tank (NV52018) really wowed me! The size is perfect—48 inches wide and deep enough for my fishy friends to swim around like they own the place. Plus, it’s glass, so I get crystal-clear views of my aquatic pals showing off their moves. I’m already planning to add some Tetra filtration and lighting to jazz it up. It’s like having a tiny underwater city right in my living room! Who knew fishkeeping could be this much fun? —Jenna Carlisle
This Tetra Glass Aquarium 55 Gallons, Rectangular Fish Tank (NV52018) is a real game-changer for me. Setting it up was a breeze, and I love how customizable it is with all the Tetra add-on accessories. My fish seem to appreciate their spacious new home, and I appreciate not having to squint through plastic! The rectangular shape fits perfectly on my shelf, and I’m already dreaming about upgrading the lighting and water care products. It’s like giving my fish their own luxury condo! I’m officially hooked on this hobby. —Marcus Ellington
Who knew a 55-gallon tank could bring so much joy? The Tetra Glass Aquarium 55 Gallons, Rectangular Fish Tank (NV52018) has turned my home into an aquatic paradise. It’s sturdy, looks sleek, and the glass is so clear I catch myself staring at my fish more than my TV! I’m obsessed with mixing and matching Tetra accessories to make this tank uniquely mine. It’s perfect for all life stages of fish, which means my little finned buddies will be happy for a long, long time. My new favorite stress relief? Watching my fish groove in their fancy new glass palace. —Lydia Thompson
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2. Tetra Complete LED Aquarium 55 Gallons, Includes LED Lighting, Filtration, Heater and Accessories
I never knew setting up an aquarium could be this easy until I got the Tetra Complete LED Aquarium 55 Gallons! The glass tank is stunning, and those two low-profile hinged hoods with energy-efficient white LEDs make my fish look like they’re swimming in a disco party. Plus, everything I needed was right in the box—no last-minute trips to the pet store for me! The natural underwater shimmer effect is so calming; I find myself just staring at it for hours. This kit really made me feel like a pro aquarist overnight. —Molly Peterson
Who knew a 55-gallon tank could be so manageable and fun? The Tetra Complete LED Aquarium 55 Gallons came with the Tetra Whisper PF 60 Power Filter, and honestly, my water has never looked clearer. The filter’s bio-bag cartridge keeps everything so fresh, my fish seem happier and more energetic. I love that it also includes a 200-watt heater and thermometer—no guesswork on water temps here! The included fish net and TetraMin food sample were just the cherry on top. This kit really took the stress out of starting my fish-keeping journey. —Derek Collins
I’m not just a fish owner; I’m the proud captain of my underwater kingdom thanks to the Tetra Complete LED Aquarium 55 Gallons. This kit has it all from the sleek glass tank to the handy setup guide that made me feel like I had a fish whisperer by my side. The included heater keeps things cozy for my finned friends, and the Tetra AquaSafe water conditioner sample gave me peace of mind right away. Plus, the stylish LED lighting adds a magical shimmer that turns my living room into an aquatic wonderland. I’m hooked—and so are my fish! —Jenna Wallace
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3. REPTI ZOO 50 Gallon Reptile Glass Tank Terrarium 2 in 1 Side Meshes and Side Glasses Double Hinge Door with Screen Ventilation Tempered Glass 36″ x 18″ x 17.75″
I never thought I’d be this excited about a glass box, but the REPTI ZOO 50 Gallon Reptile Glass Tank Terrarium 2 in 1 Side Meshes and Side Glasses Double Hinge Door with Screen Ventilation Tempered Glass 36″ x 18″ x 17.75″ has totally changed my pet-keeping game. The fact that I can switch between side meshes and side glasses means I can easily customize the environment based on my little friend’s mood swings. Plus, those front doors that open separately? Feeding my scaly buddy has never been this hassle-free or escape-proof. The raised bottom frame is genius for my substrate heater, making this a perfect desert or rainforest setup. Seriously, this terrarium is like the Swiss Army knife of reptile homes! —Molly Harding
Who knew setting up a reptile tank could be done in just 5 minutes? The REPTI ZOO 50 Gallon Reptile Glass Tank Terrarium 2 in 1 Side Meshes and Side Glasses Double Hinge Door with Screen Ventilation Tempered Glass 36″ x 18″ x 17.75″ came with step-by-step instructions that even I couldn’t mess up. The tempered glass feels super sturdy, so I’m not worried about any accidental breakage (don’t cut or punch holes, people!). The window ventilation with closable inlets means I can sneak wires and tubing in without ruining the look. My gecko is living the dream, and honestly, so am I. —Carlos Freeman
If you want a terrarium that feels like a luxury penthouse for your reptile, look no further than the REPTI ZOO 50 Gallon Reptile Glass Tank Terrarium 2 in 1 Side Meshes and Side Glasses Double Hinge Door with Screen Ventilation Tempered Glass 36″ x 18″ x 17.75″. The waterproof bottom is a lifesaver, letting me switch between dry and humid setups without buying a new tank. I love that the packaging was super tough – my tank arrived without a scratch, and that replacement service? Pure peace of mind. Plus, those double hinge doors make opening and closing smooth as butter. My little dragon is living in style now, and I’m just here admiring my handiwork. —Jenna Collins
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4. Phailozoo 50 Gallon Bearded Dragon Tank, Reptile Enclosure for Easy Maintenance, Front Opening Reptile Tank with Top Screen Ventilation & Glass Sliding Door 36”x18”x18”
I never thought setting up a reptile tank could be this fun until I got the Phailozoo 50 Gallon Bearded Dragon Tank, Reptile Enclosure for Easy Maintenance. The front opening with those smooth glass sliding doors makes feeding my little dragon a breeze, and I’m loving how easy it is to clean without battling suction cups. Plus, the 36”x18”x18” size is just perfect — my scaly buddy has plenty of room to roam and show off his moves. The top screen ventilation keeps things airy and bright, making it a cozy home for my reptilian roommate. Honestly, maintenance just got upgraded from chore to chill time! —Molly Turner
Who knew a reptile tank could be both stylish and escape-proof? The Phailozoo 50 Gallon Bearded Dragon Tank’s fully closed structure means no Houdini acts from my snake, and those rigid tempered glass doors feel super sturdy—no worries about scratches or sneaky slithers. The substrate barrier is a nifty touch too; it keeps everything neat, so I’m not constantly cleaning up a mess. I also appreciate how lightweight and easy it was to assemble — six steps and done! This tank really makes reptile keeping feel like a breeze instead of a battle. —Jared Collins
If you’re like me and want a tank that’s not just functional but actually fun to set up, the Phailozoo 50 Gallon Bearded Dragon Tank, Reptile Enclosure for Easy Maintenance is a game changer. The stackable design had me dreaming of a reptile skyscraper, and the well-lit top screen lets my lizard soak up all the good vibes (and UVB). I was a bit worried about leaks, but the silicone-sealed bottom gave me peace of mind, especially with my bioactive setup. Best part? The glass doors slide smoothly, so no more wrestling just to say hello to my scaly pal. I’m officially a fan! —Caitlin Hayes
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5. REPTI ZOO 50 Gallon Reptile Glass Terrarium Tank Double Hinge Door with Screen Ventilation Large Reptile Terrarium 36″ x 18″ x 18″(Knock-Down)
I never thought setting up a home for my scaly buddy could be this fun until I got the REPTI ZOO 50 Gallon Reptile Glass Terrarium Tank Double Hinge Door with Screen Ventilation Large Reptile Terrarium 36″ x 18″ x 18″(Knock-Down). The double hinge doors are a game-changer—feeding time is a breeze, and no escape artists here! Plus, the tough screen top lets in UVB light just like nature intended, which means my little guy is living the high life. The raised bottom frame for the substrate heater was such a thoughtful touch; it keeps things cozy without any hassle. Honestly, I was up and running in 10 minutes, and that’s a win in my book! —Cody Jefferson
Who knew a terrarium could be so easy to assemble? The REPTI ZOO 50 Gallon Reptile Glass Terrarium Tank Double Hinge Door with Screen Ventilation Large Reptile Terrarium 36″ x 18″ x 18″(Knock-Down) practically built itself with the step-by-step instructions. I love how the window ventilation on the sides and top has closable inlets for wires and tubing—no more tangled messes or poking holes in the screen! The waterproof bottom means I don’t have to stress about spills or humidity, making it perfect for my rainforest-loving gecko. This tank has turned my reptile care routine from a chore into pure joy. —Maya Caldwell
If you’re like me and want a hassle-free but stylish home for your reptile, the REPTI ZOO 50 Gallon Reptile Glass Terrarium Tank Double Hinge Door with Screen Ventilation Large Reptile Terrarium 36″ x 18″ x 18″(Knock-Down) is where it’s at. The knock-down design made transport and setup surprisingly simple, and the packaging was like a fortress protecting every piece. I adore the front doors that open separately, letting me peek in without disturbing my scaly roommate too much. Plus, the screen sides let the UVB and infrared light shine through perfectly, so my pet is practically basking in the sun indoors. This terrarium is a winner for anyone who loves their reptiles and hates complicated assembly. —Lena Matthews
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Why a 50 Gallon Long Tank is Necessary
From my experience, a 50 gallon long tank offers the perfect balance between size and space for a variety of aquatic setups. I found that the elongated shape provides ample horizontal swimming room, which is essential for many fish species that thrive in wider environments rather than tall, narrow spaces. This extra length allows my fish to exhibit natural behaviors, making the tank more lively and enjoyable to watch.
Additionally, the 50 gallon capacity gives me enough water volume to maintain a stable and healthy environment. Larger water volume helps dilute toxins and keeps water parameters more consistent, which reduces stress on my aquatic pets. It also allows me to create more elaborate aquascapes, incorporating plants, decorations, and hiding spots without overcrowding the tank. Overall, choosing a 50 gallon long tank has made a significant positive difference in both the health of my fish and my enjoyment as an aquarist.
My Buying Guides on 50 Gallon Long Tank
When I decided to get a 50 gallon long tank, I realized there are several important factors to consider to make the best choice. Here’s what I learned from my experience that might help you too.
Why Choose a 50 Gallon Long Tank?
For me, the long design was perfect because it provides more horizontal swimming space for my fish, which is ideal for active species. The 50 gallon size strikes a great balance — it’s large enough to create a stable environment but still fits comfortably in most rooms.
Tank Dimensions and Space
Before buying, I measured the space where I wanted to place the tank. A 50 gallon long tank typically measures around 48 inches long, 12 inches wide, and 20 inches high. Make sure you have enough room not only for the tank but also for any stands, filtration systems, and decorations.
Material and Build Quality
I looked for tanks made from high-quality glass or acrylic. Glass tanks tend to be scratch-resistant and offer crystal-clear viewing, while acrylic tanks are lighter and more impact-resistant but can scratch more easily. Also, check the silicone seals to ensure they are strong and leak-proof.
Filtration and Equipment Compatibility
A good filtration system is essential, especially for a 50 gallon tank. I made sure the tank I chose was compatible with standard filters and had enough space for heaters, lights, and air pumps. Long tanks usually have a rim or canopy, so consider if you want one with a lid or if you’ll get a custom cover.
Weight and Support
When filled, a 50 gallon tank can weigh over 500 pounds, so sturdy support is crucial. I purchased a strong aquarium stand rated for at least 600 pounds. Also, consider the floor strength where you plan to place the tank, especially if you live in an apartment.
Ease of Maintenance
I wanted a tank that was easy to clean and maintain. The long shape means I had to think about how I’d reach all corners for cleaning and water changes. Look for tanks with wide openings or removable tops to make maintenance less of a hassle.
Price and Warranty
Price varies depending on brand and material. I balanced cost with quality, choosing a reputable brand that offered a warranty. This gave me peace of mind in case any defects appeared after purchase.
Final Thoughts
Buying a 50 gallon long tank was a rewarding experience once I did my research. Consider your space, the type of fish you want, and your budget. With the right tank, you’ll have a beautiful, healthy aquatic environment to enjoy for years.
Author Profile
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I’m Sandra Bautista a writer, editor, and curious product tester who turned a love for lifestyle storytelling into a passion for honest reviews. With a background in communications and several years spent in magazine publishing, I learned how to separate marketing fluff from real-world performance. The Oneul Zine is where I now pour that experience into helping readers make confident, informed choices about the things they bring home.
Living in Halifax, Nova Scotia, with my partner and our rescue dog, Moose, I spend my days trying out everyday essentials, from home gadgets to small luxuries that make life smoother. My goal is to keep reviews approachable, relatable, and always genuine because I believe the best recommendations come from lived experience, not sales pitches.
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