125 vs 180

fishgate

Active member
I'm wishing I had gone with the 180 gallon tank over the 125 gallon. Same dimensions accept 6" deeper. With my rock wall I am going to lose some depth front to back and it would be nice to have the additional from the 180.

It was only $100 more at the time too. But quite a bit heavier if I remember right.

Tank is still dry (still in setup phase) but I'd have to redo the stand and everything. $500 out of pocket for the tank alone and probably $100 for the stand rebuild.

What would you do?
 
I think it depends on if you will think each time you look at the tank in the next few years "I shoulda taken the bigger one".

I personally think that if you try to have a creative aquascape you can make every tank shape and size look great...
 
180 gal is a nice tank; that extra 6" makes a world of difference when it comes to aquascaping. You have so many more options.

The 180 is (generally) a lot heavier than a 125 for some reason. Is the stand already built? If you can sell the tank/stand for a decent price, I'd start over with a 180. That way you won't constantly be looking at your 125 and regretting it.....
 
Still early in the process I would sell the 125 and go with the 180 or 120 the 24" in width is well worth it.
 
I feel the same as everyone else. You know how this hobby is, you will be looking at your tank constantly regretting ever setting the smaller tank up. GL an keep us posted
 
About a month ago, I was going to build a 40b this summer, that quickly became a 75, soon after that I wanted a 180. Plan what you want in the tank before you set it up fully. You are going to be much happier if you have the ability to put what you want in the tank without restrictions. Do the 180 breh, you will be MUCH happier, otherwise, every time you look at your tank you will say, wow that is great, but I should have got the 180.
 
180's are nice tanks. Put it on a higher stand and it is great IMO if you want it closer to a 220.
I love the height of 220g etc but I am happy with a short tank on a tall stand.

125 is good for smaller fish but if you want bigger fish (tangs etc) a 180-220 is proper. You may need a step stool though, I do.

Ya I'm 6' 4". I like tall stands, bending over isnt fun. I need a step-stool for tanks like that. But shorter people will want tongs or devices to grab corals etc.

Its what you will be comfortable working on, so plan it for you. Tall tanks are hard if they are wide, even at my height.

A tank that is below your breast is good to work in but tall tanks are impressive to look at. Step-stools & tongs are a necessity for tall tanks.
 
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i had a 125 for about a year on a 24" tall stand. i hated it. moved it over to a 300 and gave the 125 away to a friend..

100_1203.jpg
 
Go for the 180... It's also approximately 2" taller in height! Keep the 125 and use it for a sump.

Oh I thought it was the same height. Will this settles it then I'll stick with the 125. No way I am starting the entire project from scratch and redoing my through the wall hole!
 
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