Budget Build and return pump sizing and choice?

[KGNickl]

I have a 30 gallon tank that is 20" long x 18" deep x 20" tall and a sump that is 14.5" long x 11.5" deep x 13" tall. From the overflow to the bottom of the sump its about 50". So from what I read I want something that can do 200-400 gph @ a little over 4 ft.

I'm thinking a DCP-2500. But wondering what other suggestions for pumps that would be sized properly for my tank are? I want to spend $30-$60. I read something about mag drive pumps but was not really able to figure out whats what and sizing them up or which might work or can be adjusted up or down to work.

 

[Aardvark1134]

Are you running a standard sump or a refugium as it effects how much turnover you want through the sump. Also how much flow that doesn't go through the sump will you have?
Looks like if you are set on that GPH that a Rio 2500 could handle it even after plumbing turn head pressure.

 

[muzikalmatt]

Maybe look at a Sicce Syncra pump, either the 1.0 (251gph @ ~$50) or the 1.5 (357gph @ ~$65). I just got the 1.5 for my IM Nuvo 40 and while the flowrate is a bit of a downgrade from the stock pump, it is dead silent.

 

[lpsouth1978]

I always prefer to oversize my return pump. This allows me to run it at a lower speed ans prolong the life of the pump. If you go with the Jebao pump (I use these on all of my tanks) why not get the DCP-4000. It looks like it is only a few $ more on amazon and gives you more wiggle room on flow.

 

[X-37B]

I use a tunze 1073.008 for my 25 nano cube with sump.
Under $40

 

[jeffchapok]

I recently bought this for the return on my 60 gal. On the lowest flow setting I still needed a ball valve to slow it down, and it is dead silent. You can't even tell it's running.

aquastation Silent Swirl Controllable DC Aquarium Pump-Wave (Mode/Function) Return Pump with sine Controller for Salt/Freshwater Coral Reef Fish Tank Sump Circulation (DC2000)

 

[Fishurama]

I use a Aquastation 12,000L(3100 GPH) and its amazingly quite and like another poster said, i prefer to oversize the pump to prolong use.
They have a 3000L(800gph) version for 59.99 and its controllable. 20 different settings, would be good if you ever upsized too or depending on tank layout could act as a powerhead if you up the flow.
My only issue is the controller if left say in the cabinet to hide, the plastic on the controller screen cracks and peels a bit after about a year.
pump link