The short answer
To start an aquarium you need a tank, filter, heater, light, substrate, dechlorinator, a test kit and fish food — plus, crucially, the patience to cycle the tank before any fish go in. Get the hardware set up and running first, monitor the cycle with your test kit, and only then add livestock. A complete kit covers the big items in one box.
The starter shopping list
- Tank — bigger is more stable and forgiving for beginners.
- Filter — the biological heart of the tank; sized to the volume.
- Heater — for tropical fish; skip it only for a cold water tank.
- Light — an LED on a timer, run 6–8 hours a day.
- Substrate — gravel, sand or plant soil for the base.
- Dechlorinator — treats tap water so it’s safe for fish and bacteria.
- Test kit — to track the cycle and keep water safe.
- Fish food — bought last, for once the fish arrive.
Kit or piece by piece?
A complete aquarium kit bundles a matched tank, filter, heater and light, which saves you sizing each part and usually saves money too. You then add substrate, dechlorinator, a test kit and food separately. See our best complete aquarium kit and best beginner aquarium picks.
Putting it together
Once you’ve gathered everything, follow how to set up an aquarium, then cycle before stocking. Browse hubs for tanks, filters, heaters, substrate and water testing.