With many now jumping on the bandwagon of attempting to usurp the AAP/ATI Hydro Sponge Filter patent, the first question a potential buyer needs to ask is why purchase a knock off product made in China (even if sold under a USA name).
As well, while the basics of the patent design have been copied pretty much accurately, the sponge material is not the same and has much lower capacity, so in the end, you still get an inferior product!
Was is also unfortunate is many pushing these Chinese knock offs have
little to no professional experience or mentoring in their use.
Otherwise why would you have the latest promoter of a new knock off
bragging that they only utilize the reticulated (coarse) sponge?
The facts remain that often the more fine is the better choice for both
mechanical & bio filtration, even in larger aquariums. As well, even
more often the use of one of each or the unique AAP Combo Hydro Sponge
Filters is your best choice (these combine both sponge filter types in
one filter).
So I ask again, why not purchase the best Aquarium Sponge Filter which includes a complete line of both sponge material types, combos, as well as pre-filters and pond /aquarium system models that no one else makes or sells and get the added benefit of knowing you are promoting a made in the USA product over China. In the end, if a popular YouTube personality promotes something, it does not make it the best. Support the professional aquarium industry and American made products!!
References:
Aquarium Sponge Filter Use, Sponge Filtration
10 Pro and Cons of Aquarium Sponge Filters
Resources:
Aquarium Sponge Filters by ATI/AAP
Filter Max, Sponge Pre-Filters
Hydro Pond Sponge Filters | Central Aquarium System Sump Filters