Which pico tank is better

[MinnReef]

So I am getting a new pico tank kit from BucePlant that is either a UNS 5S or a UNS 25S, both are 2 gallons and come with a UNS x ONF led light. The only real difference between the tanks is the dimensions, the 5S is 14.17" x 8.66" x 4.72" compared to the 25S is 9.84" x 9.84" x 4.92". Stocking wise I just want some zoas honestly, a little zoa or rock flower tidepool with maybe a "display" invert but no fish as it is too small.

Here is a picture of the 5S

Compared to the 25S

As stated above both come with the light so all I need is a filter/flow option, I already have an archae 25W heater that comes with a built-in thermostat. Does anyone have any recommendations for stocking this little tank? I might wait for a new substrate to be released or try out Brightwells KoraLagoon for a different, more natural look that will also help with possibly growing macro algae

 

[brandon429]

Top off is truly going to be a challenge

being away for even up to 72 hours from the tank will be the biggest hurdle how are you handling that portion

 

[MinnReef]

Top off is truly going to be a challenge

being away for even up to 72 hours from the tank will be the biggest hurdle how are you handling that portion

Uhh...Autotop offs exist, not worried at all

 

[Alvaro_Spain]

I have this thing for auto top-off. It´s not esthetic put keeps salinity stable in my 5 gallon picos.

I actually built an internal sump with 2 mm acrylic. It´s less expensive than buying an AIO. Diagram is in Spanish, but you can see where the biological filtration, heater (black) and return pump are. In first chamber I was going to put initially mechanical but I just dumped more biological.

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www.aliexpress.com

 

[MinnReef]

I have this thing for auto top-off. It´s not esthetic put keeps salinity stable in my 5 gallon picos.

I actually built an internal sump with 2 mm acrylic. It´s less expensive than buying an AIO. Diagram is in Spanish, but you can see where the biological filtration, heater (black) and return pump are. In first chamber I was going to put initially mechanical but I just dumped more biological.

5.42US $ |Useful Automatic Add Water Device Aquarium Fish Tank Wall Mounted Water Replenisher Water Device Supplies Fish Accessories|Feeders| - AliExpress

Smarter Shopping, Better Living! Aliexpress.com

www.aliexpress.com

They have the same one on amazon that I might try out. Aliexpress just seems "sketchy" to me

 

[sde1500]

The picture makes that 25s look much taller than the 5s, but dims really only .2 different? Based on the pic seems way taller, weird. I think I'd go with the 5s. Bigger floor print, which I think would give you some more flexibility for scape, plus a cooler top down view.

 

[MinnReef]

I think that's what I'm going to end up doing. Maybe even get some real ocean rock this time too