Anyone here have any experience with the Nu-Clear canister filters, as seen on MarineDepot.com? (Nu-Clear Aquarium/Water Canister Filter)

They seem extremely similar, just wondering if there is any practical difference? (I have a little credit with Marine Depot, which is why I'm asking. I do not want to get a cheap knock-off, however.)

I've used both brands and believe that they have nearly identical sizes as far as filter media goes - it is likely that media from one brand may be able to be used in another.

That said, I prefer the Nu-Clear canisters because the retention mechanism used to seal the Nu-Clears (a screw-down pressure ring similiar to what I've seen in some pressure cookers) is much more reliable and leak-resistant than the twist on lids of the Ocean Clear canisters. The Ocean Clear canisters that I've used would not properly seal until I tapped them tight with a rubber mallet (as suggested by the Redsea help line that I called when my Ocean Clears continued to leak!). IMHO Nu-Clear has a superior seal and that, at least to me, makes all the difference.

I agree with Travis. The nu-clear is a better quality filter. A friend of mine has one. I do own 2 ocean clear 354 polybead filters and love them. They are a great stand alone filter for mech. and bio, and can be cleaned by backwashing them with tank water when you do water changes. What could be easier? The only complaint I have with them, is the supplied ball valves on the filter are not of great quality, and can be hard to turn on and off at times. Not that big a deal, just annoying. I have not tried any of the other models.

I don't have either of these two, but from my research, changing the media for the Nu-Clear is harder due to the dome shape lid, where water will pour out. Just a thought.

I am planning to buy Ocean Clear just because of that.

are these filters superior to say a eheim or other canister style filter?

Without a doubt far superior in every category.

My pump has 1' IN/OUT connections so my preference is the NU-CLEAR model, but thats not only it! What about the option to increase the filter capacity by using the special designed CAN. Some might say it's the same as adding an additional canister, but at least NU-CLEAR gives you a cheaper option

I agree that the NU-CLEAR has a superior seal due to the rugged & well built clamp, but it also makes removal /attachment 'more ' work. But if you take into consideration, it really is a better sealing method and the 'more' work should not be a factor worth considering.

Taking into account all the above about the NU-CLEAR.......the 1in IN/OUT connections, the clamp seal and the option to increase the capacity of the filter by using a special designed CAN 'relatively cheap', how can there be a question to this.

NU-CLEAR is a far superior product, designed well and more rugged!....this is my opinion

The OC definitely is easier opening/closing but the 3/4in IN/OUT is a major downside for me. It would have been better IMO if they gave you 1in IN/OUT connections and leave if up to the consumer the choose which size to use with the use of reducers.

If the NU-CLEAR is installed correctly with ball valves there will be no spillage. All that would be required is shutting off the side that will be 'back flow/siphon' from the tank and use the drain on the bottom in sync with the release valve on the lid to drain water in the CAN. The same method applies to the OC as well...real easy & no mess

The only drawback to the Nu-Clear that I can see, is that I have not YET found a model with a built in UV like the OC 375 model.

So would have to plumb in-line.

But, based on personal preferences, this may be better for some applications.......

However, am still researching the NC and they could have one for all I know.....

The all in one UV/CAN package is a cute package but I feel it's not as effective as an true in-line unit and the reason I use a 25watt in-line sterilizer. I'm gonna say that that was a smart move on their part

Yes, I think the NU-Clear model 533 with 1533 CAN extension is the way I will go with an in-line UV.

That way I can pick any UV mfg I want, and/or go larger/smaller as needed.