A high-quality protein skimmer is one of the best tools for maintaining clean, healthy water in a saltwater aquarium. Whether you’re running a reef tank or a fish-only setup, a skimmer helps remove organic waste, keeping nutrient levels low and water clarity high.
Two of the best protein skimmers on the market are:
- AquaMaxx HOB-1.5 Hang-On-Back (HOB) Protein Skimmer – Ideal for tanks up to 90 gallons without a sump.
- Reef Octopus Classic 110-INT In-Sump Protein Skimmer – Designed for tanks up to 130 gallons with a sump.
Which one is right for your setup? Here’s a detailed, side-by-side comparison to help you decide.
1️⃣ Tank Compatibility & Design
| Feature | AquaMaxx HOB-1.5 | Reef Octopus 110-INT |
|---|---|---|
| Tank Size | Up to 90 gallons | Up to 130 gallons |
| Sump Required? | No – Hangs on back | Yes – Requires sump |
| Installation Type | Hang-on-back (HOB) | In-sump |
If you don’t have a sump, the AquaMaxx HOB-1.5 is the clear choice. If you do have a sump and a larger tank, the Reef Octopus 110-INT provides better waste removal.
2️⃣ Performance & Efficiency
| Feature | AquaMaxx HOB-1.5 | Reef Octopus 110-INT |
|---|---|---|
| Pump Type | Needle wheel pump | Pinwheel pump |
| Bubble Production | Fine microbubbles | Advanced bubble plate design |
| Waste Removal | Excellent for small to medium tanks | Superior for large, high-bioload tanks |
| Reaction Chamber | Compact but effective | Larger chamber for extended contact time |
The Reef Octopus 110-INT has a bubble plate design, making it more efficient at breaking down organic waste in heavily stocked tanks. However, the AquaMaxx HOB-1.5 is still highly effective for smaller tanks.
Winner: Reef Octopus 110-INT for efficiency, but AquaMaxx HOB-1.5 performs well in its size range.
3️⃣ Ease of Installation & Setup
| Feature | AquaMaxx HOB-1.5 | Reef Octopus 110-INT |
|---|---|---|
| Installation | Quick setup – No sump required | Requires sump and more setup time |
| Adjustability | Adjustable water level | Adjustable gate valve |
| Break-in Period | 1-2 weeks | 1-2 weeks |
The AquaMaxx HOB-1.5 is much easier to set up since it hangs on the back of the tank—no plumbing or sump required. The Reef Octopus 110-INT requires a sump, making installation more involved, though it offers more precise tuning once set up.
Winner: AquaMaxx HOB-1.5 for ease of setup.
4️⃣ Noise Levels
| Feature | AquaMaxx HOB-1.5 | Reef Octopus 110-INT |
|---|---|---|
| Noise Level | Very quiet | Quiet but slightly louder |
| Noise Reduction Features | Efficient pump design | Bubble plate reduces turbulence |
Both skimmers operate quietly, but the AquaMaxx HOB-1.5 is slightly quieter overall.
Winner: AquaMaxx HOB-1.5 by a small margin.
5️⃣ Maintenance & Cleaning
| Feature | AquaMaxx HOB-1.5 | Reef Octopus 110-INT |
|---|---|---|
| Collection Cup Cleaning | Easy to remove | Easy to remove with drain fitting |
| Pump Maintenance | Monthly deep clean | Monthly deep clean |
| Long-Term Upkeep | Minimal effort required | More components to clean |
Both skimmers are easy to maintain, but the Reef Octopus 110-INT has a drain fitting on the collection cup, allowing you to empty waste without removing the cup. The AquaMaxx HOB-1.5 is simpler overall, requiring less disassembly.
Winner: Tie, depending on preference.
6️⃣ Price & Value
| Feature | AquaMaxx HOB-1.5 | Reef Octopus 110-INT |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Mid-range | Higher initial cost |
| Value for Money | Excellent for small-medium tanks | Best for serious reef keepers |
| Longevity | Durable for years | Built for long-term use |
The AquaMaxx HOB-1.5 is more affordable, making it a great choice for budget-conscious aquarists. The Reef Octopus 110-INT costs more upfront, but for larger tanks, its efficiency and durability justify the price.
Winner: AquaMaxx HOB-1.5 for affordability, Reef Octopus 110-INT for premium value.
Final Verdict: Which Protein Skimmer is Right for You?
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Tank Compatibility | Depends on sump availability |
| Performance & Efficiency | Reef Octopus 110-INT |
| Ease of Setup | AquaMaxx HOB-1.5 |
| Noise Levels | AquaMaxx HOB-1.5 |
| Maintenance | Tie |
| Price & Value | AquaMaxx (for budget) / Reef Octopus (for long-term value) |
Best for Small to Medium Tanks Without a Sump
AquaMaxx HOB-1.5 – Easy installation, effective skimming, and quiet operation.
Best for Larger Tanks With a Sump
Reef Octopus Classic 110-INT – Superior waste removal, premium build, and long-term reliability.
Which Skimmer Should You Choose?
- If your tank is under 90 gallons and you don’t have a sump, the AquaMaxx HOB-1.5 is the best option.
- If your tank is over 90 gallons and has a sump, the Reef Octopus 110-INT offers superior performance.
Both skimmers will help maintain excellent water quality—just choose the one that fits your setup best.