Recommendation on test kits for freshwater aquarium ???

Question

Hi all !
I'm relatively new in the fishkeeping hobby and till now I use liquid tests which I buy one by one (ammonia, nitrite, nitrate).
I would like to buy a test kit for freshwater. The kit should include at least the 5 common tests (ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, ph, hardness). I would prefer liquid tests (but if you have good experience with strips I am willing to reconsider). Sure I cannot afford to buy a "chem lab" but can spend till 40 Euros for the health of my fish. Hope thats enough... Any recommendations to help me out ?
Thx in advance.

Answer 1

Most test kits like you describe are very similar in range and sensitivity. All share similar features and I would say get the brand that's the best price from the well known reliable brands like those two mentioned above.

I would say stay away from test strips. They are far less reliable and are prone to damage from sunlight and moisture.

MM

Answer 2

Yikes, that's countless room to play with. If I had decrease Ph i might unquestionably choose for discus, perhaps, on the different hand could be now no longer, They sound like greater artwork than i opt to guard. anyhow, If it grow to be my tank, i might get A black ghost knife fish "now no longer incredibly an area fish in spite of if" A gibbicep pleco aka "leopard sail-fin pleco" in all probability 7-10 torpedo barbs perhaps 10 hump-head glass tetra and or congo tetra. 6 polka dot loaches and six yoyo loaches., although that they had have have been given to already be considerable sufficient to no longer get eaten by the knife fish , which could possible strengthen lots speedy then the loaches. in all probability some pearl gouramis or perhaps i might leave room for a school of Silver dollars. They perhaps safer without the pleco although, and that i like plecos. Hmmm

Answer 3

You need one that uses a reagent, not pads on a plastic strip, as they are far more accurate.
http://uk.tetra.de/tetra/go/3647B6F57E96C076AD321EF9C7C8586C/?lang_id=20&produkt_list=1
http://www.hagen.com/uk/aquatic/sub_category.cfm?CAT=1&SUBCAT=124
http://www.aquariumpharm.com/en_gb/productCategory.asp?categoryname=TestKits

The most important is Ammonia. Also important is pH and Nitrite. After that, other things, while important, are not essential.

Answer 4

Here is one that tests all five in one handy container-http://www.petco.com/Shop/Product.aspx?R=8708&Nav=1&N=0&Ntt=nitrate&sku=734969&familyID=7710&

Make sure you order the right one.

~ZTM

Answer 5

API liquid is probably going to be your best bet

Answer 6

any product made by Marineland