Jebao wavemakers - opinions

RaymondL · Jun 3, 2023

I'm looking for a DC wavemaker, and something small and not too powerful for a 15 gallon tank. I know Jebao makes some low cost wavemakers, and their recent models replaces the standard controller with WiFi enabled control via mobile app.

The old models that comes with a controller are selling cheap - wanted to reach out here to see if anyone has own one of their wavemaker and like to share the good and the bad. I've heard that their newer models that have the WiFi capability can give problems for some to connect.

PhishMonger84 · Jun 3, 2023

I've only used their gyre types but i really like them and definitely a savings over a name brand

Acros · Jun 3, 2023

I have been using 2 SLW20M wavemakers for 2 years now. The only other powerhead I would consider are the Ecotech Vortech pumps. The convenience of wireless wet side looks appealing, especially when cleaning pumps.

Otherwise, no other powerhead makes sense. Jebao pumps are really good, they do not break like they did 5-10 years back. Quite as any powerhead can be, and the mobile app is pretty good. The only way the mobile app can improve is by providing an option to cap max flow in random mode. I connect them to my 5ghz WiFi and they have never disconnected/had any network issues.

If you are buying them, buy from AliExpress. The price is significantly cheaper. They come in a generic foam packaging when ordered through AliExpress, but the price makes up for it. I highly recommend the WiFi versions. ELW is the newest line of Jebao wavemakers.

RaymondL · Jun 3, 2023

Acros said:
I have been using 2 SLW20M wavemakers for 2 years now. The only other powerhead I would consider are the Ecotech Vortech pumps. The convenience of wireless wet side looks appealing, especially when cleaning pumps.

Otherwise, no other powerhead makes sense. Jebao pumps are really good, they do not break like they did 5-10 years back. Quite as any powerhead can be, and the mobile app is pretty good. The only way the mobile app can improve is by providing an option to cap max flow in random mode. I connect them to my 5ghz WiFi and they have never disconnected/had any network issues.

If you are buying them, buy from AliExpress. The price is significantly cheaper. They come in a generic foam packaging when ordered through AliExpress, but the price makes up for it. I highly recommend the WiFi versions. ELW is the newest line of Jebao wavemakers.

Thanks for the info - I didn't know about their ELW version, which apparently can be accessed and controlled from anywhere if needed. A bit much more $$, but an option.

Aaron75 · Jun 3, 2023

I had a mow-3 and it was good but was very direct. I tried an ELW-3 (nero like) and it is TINY but powerful and the spread was pretty wide. I settled on a Ecp-50m gyre and it is perfect. All this was in a 15g as well. I used smart models for all and it's really not necessary, I just like the option.

Reefer Matt · Jun 3, 2023

I have used Jebao powerheads and gyres for 5 years now. Some stop working after a couple years, some are still working fine. All of them need regular cleaning just like every other powerhead. I can afford the ecotech mp ones, but prefer to save my money for the coral. Jebao are good in my opinion.

FrugalReefer · Jun 3, 2023

Jebao SDW-5s. 2 years, no issues.

00W · Jun 3, 2023

I have 5. 3 OW 20s 2 10's.
Clean them every two weeks. No issues.
Lost one controller in 5 years.
Cheap and reliable.

PNW_squidz · Jun 3, 2023

I just sent an SLW 10 back. Lasted a week.

RaymondL · Jun 3, 2023

Acros said:
I have been using 2 SLW20M wavemakers for 2 years now. The only other powerhead I would consider are the Ecotech Vortech pumps. The convenience of wireless wet side looks appealing, especially when cleaning pumps.

Otherwise, no other powerhead makes sense. Jebao pumps are really good, they do not break like they did 5-10 years back. Quite as any powerhead can be, and the mobile app is pretty good. The only way the mobile app can improve is by providing an option to cap max flow in random mode. I connect them to my 5ghz WiFi and they have never disconnected/had any network issues.

If you are buying them, buy from AliExpress. The price is significantly cheaper. They come in a generic foam packaging when ordered through AliExpress, but the price makes up for it. I highly recommend the WiFi versions. ELW is the newest line of Jebao wavemakers.

I picked up the latest model ELW from Aliexpress - doesn't say what type of power plug it is, so I had to send a note to the seller to ask. Hope this new model resolves any issues from other models...

wrassie86 · Jun 3, 2023

Only troubles I've had with them is the in tank magnets swelling and one on a gyre pretty much fall apart after a year.

Icryhard · Jun 3, 2023

I use the AOW 9 and AOW 5 (I believe these are 2023 models, but the ones designed as of 2020 are top notch imo) and they're great. If you're not looking for something too strong I'd go for the AOW 3 or 5. Great experience and the app is also amazing. You can also turn them on and off from a special panel which it attaches to.

AquaLogic · Feb 15, 2024

wrassie86 said:
Only troubles I've had with them is the in tank magnets swelling and one on a gyre pretty much fall apart after a year.

Better magnet

nicodim55 · Feb 15, 2024

jebao for the win

wrassie86 · Feb 16, 2024

AquaLogic said:
Better magnet

have you used these linked magnets in a gyre? have 3 gyres now with bad magnets pumps are fine.

Blue Spot Octopus · Feb 17, 2024

For a 15 gallon tank, make sure to get the 2 or the 4 nothing bigger. There are lots of models so trying to figure out the latest can be a challenge.

stevenidsgs · Jun 4, 2024

RaymondL said:
I'm looking for a DC wavemaker, and something small and not too powerful for a 15 gallon tank. I know Jebao makes some low cost wavemakers, and their recent models replaces the standard controller with WiFi enabled control via mobile app.

The old models that comes with a controller are selling cheap - wanted to reach out here to see if anyone has own one of their wavemaker and like to share the good and the bad. I've heard that their newer models that have the WiFi capability can give problems for some to connect.

I bought mine from ALIExpress was cheap, but the wave maker had issues and they said pay to ship it back, even though its under warrenty, so I contacted the Jebao officeal store on Aliexpress, they siad sorry cant help you, i would not buy from them again

Hooz · Jun 4, 2024

I started with SLWs and SOWs, then MLWs and MOWs, then ELWs and ECPs. I also have several of their return pumps, some running for 4+ years now.

If you only want to run a single wave pattern (mode) and intensity, then the older (non wifi) pumps still work fine. The app gives you a LOT more flexibility, though. I haven't had any issues connecting to wifi. You just have to follow the procedure.

I also order from AliExpress. There are a bunch of different sellers on there, and I've had good luck with all my orders (so far). The cost savings can be worth rolling the dice.

carri10 · Jun 4, 2024

I have MLW30. Moves a lot of water. A lot. But. Noisy above about 30%. Can clearly hear it when television in the room is off. WiFi connection is easy, on 2.4gHz and Access Point setting. Control app UI is okay. Usable, but not premium and clearly translated from. Chinese base.
Also, I found the magnets not really strong enough for 15mm glass.
Due to the noise, it’s being turned into an expensive salt mixer and I’m replacing with a Tunze Turbelle 3+.

In conclusion. If you want to move water, there’re great. If you want refinement and user experience etc, you’ll likely have to pay more.

Cell · Jun 4, 2024

4x SLW's for 3+ years and they have been rock solid reliable. I will be bummed when I have to replace them and cannot find the exact same model anymore but it sounds like the newer wifi stuff works fine too.