Aquarium or terrarium, how to choose?
Choose an aquarium if you want to watch fish and are willing to do weekly maintenance. Choose a plant terrarium if you want a living display with minimal effort. A terrarium for reptiles or amphibians is a third, separate project, as it involves caring for an animal for several years. The term terrarium actually covers two very different things.
Three projects, not two
The question is often put this way: water or land? In reality, it is a choice of pace. Before comparing tanks, ask yourself what you will enjoy doing each week, not just what you will enjoy watching.
When an aquarium is the right choice
Aquariums are appealing for their movement: fish, plants, reflections, and group life. They require a basic understanding of biological balance. A tank is set up, cycled, and then maintained. The filter runs continuously and bacteria break down waste. See our guide on setting up a successful freshwater aquarium.
Plan for a short weekly session to change 20 to 25% of the water, clean the glass, and check the water parameters. You should also prepare for when you are away: see how to manage an aquarium when you go on holiday.
To get started, a kit prevents the filter and lighting from being mismatched. Our Start Superfish range goes from 20 to 146 litres. Before buying, consider these 10 questions to ask before buying.
When a plant terrarium is the right choice
A plant terrarium is a garden under glass. With no animal to feed and minimal effort, it is suitable for those who love plants or for someone who is often away. A properly balanced closed terrarium recycles its water: according to the University of Missouri, it can go 4 to 6 months without watering.
It still has its requirements. The University of Penn State points out that it cannot withstand direct sunlight, which causes it to overheat. Too much water is the error to avoid. For setup, see how to make a closed terrarium and our 6 tips for a natural terrarium.
If you are looking for a guided solution, the biOrb AIR automatically controls the lighting, humidity, watering and air circulation, according to its product page. It is available in 30 and 60 litres and does not require natural light.
Before deciding, place a houseplant in the intended spot for a few weeks. If it grows well without direct sunlight, the location is suitable for a plant terrarium. You will also have measured your desire to care for it.
Aquarium Start 50 TropicalComplete 45-litre kit for a first setup.View productAquarium StyleLine 8575-litre tank, to be paired with its stand.View productbiOrb AIR 30 TerrariumAutomated 30-litre acrylic terrarium for delicate plants.View productbiOrb Earth 125Complete 125-litre vivarium, controlled by an app.View product
Terrariums with animals: what you need to know
A reptile or amphibian will not adapt to a pretty tank. The tank must adapt to the species: heat, lighting, humidity, hiding places, food. So start with the animal, never the terrarium. Our article on how to choose a lamp for your terrarium shows what lighting alone entails.
Also find out about the species' lifespan, its adult size, whether there is a qualified vet near you, and the rules for keeping animals in your country. These vary by species and region: we cannot summarise them here. Finally, an axolotl lives in water: it falls under the category of an aquarium, with its own requirements.
Space, weight and budget
- Weight. One litre of water weighs one kilogram. Swell emphasises the importance of a solid floor, and LiveAquaria recommends allowing at least 1.2 kg per litre for an installed tank. A terrarium does not hold this mass of water: the biOrb Earth 125 product page lists a net weight of 19.1 kg for 125 litres, excluding substrate and décor.
- Light. Both aquariums and plant terrariums should avoid direct sunlight.
- Electricity. A tropical aquarium requires a filter, heater and lighting. A simple closed terrarium can do without them.
- Budget. We do not give a general figure, as it depends on the volume and species. Compare the total cost: tank, stand, equipment, consumables and animals, in addition to the initial purchase.
- Noise. A filter or air pump can sometimes be heard in a quiet room. A closed terrarium is silent.
Caution. An animal should not be bought on a whim. Never release a fish, turtle or reptile you can no longer care for into the wild. Contact a rescue centre or specialist instead.
Frequently asked questions
Which is easier to maintain?
A closed plant terrarium requires the least regular effort. An aquarium requires a little weekly maintenance. A terrarium with animals depends entirely on the species chosen.
Which is best suited to a child?
A plant terrarium or a small aquarium supervised by an adult. An adult remains responsible for the animals and the electricity. The CDC recommends that children under 5 do not clean aquariums.
Can you keep both in the same tank?
Yes: an aquaterrarium combines a water section and an above-water section, useful for certain turtles. However, it combines the requirements of both. See our article on aquaterrariums for turtles.
Does a terrarium need electricity?
A simple plant terrarium can do without it in a bright room. A terrarium with animals or an automated model like the biOrb AIR needs a power outlet.
Can you convert an aquarium into a terrarium?
A glass tank can hold plants, provided the ventilation and lighting are suitable. For an animal, first check that the volume, lid and heating meet its needs.
Still unsure? Tell us your room, your budget and how much time you have.
Contact an advisor
Also read
For choosing an aquarium: What aquarium should you choose? How to choose an aquarium?
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Sources and references
Last updated: November 4, 2026.
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