One or Two powerheads for nano tank?

[Always Be Reefin]

Changed up my plan and will be using my 20 gallon tank as a reef tank (24x12x16)

The HOB filter is the only flow I have, and that won't cut it so I looked into powerheads. I settled on the AI Nero 3 because of its small for factor (if anyone has a recommendation that doesn't take up much space and is cheaper, please let me know. I can afford it, but my budget would appreciate a cheaper option).

What I didn't know was of I needed one powerhead. Or two total, with one on each side

 

[nuxx Verified Sponsor]

I've always been in the camp of one on each side.

 

[CasperOe]

In stead of one Nero 3, i would look at 2 x Jebao SLW-10. Won't break the bank and they have a very similar low foot print.

By adding two, you have a bit of versatility as to where- and how you want your flow to be. Not to mention redundancy as well!

 

[EricR]

I like the idea of 2x smaller over 1x larger as others have suggested.

If you're just looking for other ideas:
- hygger Mini is about $70 on Amazon
- Aqamai KPS looks interesting (to me) at about $90 on Amazon

FWIW, I run single AI Nero 5 on a 40 gallon (36x18x16) tank and have no issues but have considered adding one of the above as a 2nd option.