imo they are ok, and for some applications it would work great. it has a super small foot print, so if you are restricted in that aspect then it would be fine. the reaction chamber is small, so it does not have much dwell time. i think it uses one of the new maxi jet utility pumps, the pumps look nice, but i dont know how good they are for skimmer applications. the plastic is still thin and flimsy looking, i think my octopus skimmer is built better if that tells you anything. for that price, there are too many other better options to use. like hop said, the 300 model is probably better suited for a 55-75 gal tank, and the 100 model is probably better for tanks 40gal and smaller. i like it better than the super skimmers though.