Aquarium Controllers

(41 items)

Take the guesswork out of reefkeeping with advanced aquarium controllers — your all-in-one solution for automation, stability, and peace of mind. From basic monitoring to full ecosystem management, these systems give you real-time insights and control over key parameters like temperature, pH, salinity, lighting, and dosing.

At Top Shelf Aquatics, we carry a wide selection of aquarium controllers to fit every tank and budget — from beginner-friendly models to fully expandable systems. Our most popular options come from industry leaders like Hydros and Neptune Systems, known for their reliability, intuitive interfaces, and integration with a wide range of sensors and equipment.

Whether you're building out a new reef or upgrading your system, our controller selection helps streamline maintenance, prevent failures, and keep your livestock thriving with minimal hands-on work.

Aquarium Controller Top Picks

A table comparing the facets of 4 items
Facet	Launch Aquarium Controller - Hydros View details	X10 Aquarium Controller - Hydros View details	A3 Apex Controller System - Neptune Systems View details	A3 Apex Pro Controller System - Neptune Systems View details
Price
Price	$635²⁴	$923⁹⁹	$659⁹⁹	$974⁹⁹
Features
Features	The HYDROS Launch is a powerful all-in-one aquarium management system. It features pH/ORP and salinity probe ports (salinity probe sold separately), four sense ports, four 12V drive ports, and four controllable AC outlets, allowing comprehensive control of critical functions like temperature, pH, and leak detection. With its durable design and seamless integration into other HYDROS systems, it’s ideal for both beginners and advanced users in saltwater, freshwater, or pond setups. Includes: Launch controller, temperature sensor, and pH probe Sensor: Temperature, pH, ORP, salinity, and water level Features: Four controllable AC power outlets, four dosing drive ports, and is IP65-rated Ports: 2 command bus, 4 sense ports, 4 drive ports, and 2 probe ports Accessories: pH probe and temperature sensor	The Control X10 takes aquarium management to a new level with advanced features like multi-dosing heads and a salinity probe port (probe sold separately). It's versatile enough to handle liquid dosing, temperature monitoring, and pH or ORP tracking, making it ideal for saltwater, freshwater, or pond setups. Expand functionality with additional sensors for salinity, alkalinity, leak detection, and more. Built with an IP65-rated splash-proof enclosure, it can operate independently or integrate seamlessly with other HYDROS controls. Includes: X10 controller, power supply, pH probe, temperature sensor, and dosing tubing Sensors: Temperature, salinity, pH, ORP, and water level Features: Multi-dosing heads, salinity probe port, 4 precision dosing pumps, and IP65-rated Ports: 2 command bus, 4 sense ports, 4 drive ports, and 2 probe ports Accessories: pH probe, temperature sensor, calibration beaker, and dosing tubing	The A3 Apex is the perfect entry point for serious tank automation. It includes key sensors and full control capabilities through the Energy Bar 832 and Apex Fusion app. Monitor temperature, pH, water level, and detect leaks—all with expandable compatibility across Neptune's ecosystem. It’s WiFi and Ethernet-ready and features a built-in alarm, making it a reliable controller for any reefer looking to gain peace of mind and prevent tank disasters. Key Features: - Tracks: Temperature, pH, water level, and surface leaks - Includes: EB832 (8 outlets, 3x 1LINK, 2x 24V), MOS sensor, LD-2 sensor - App Control: Apex Fusion with customizable dashboard and alerts - Expandable: Supports additional probes, modules (PM2, PM3, DOS, WAV, etc.) - Coverage: Control up to 13 total devices - Probes: Lab-grade temp & double-junction pH - Power: 120V via Energy Bar 832 - Connectivity: WiFi + Ethernet	The A3 Apex Pro is Neptune’s most advanced aquarium control system, offering full-spectrum monitoring and automation. It features additional probe ports for ORP and salinity (sold separately), a vertical Liquid Level Sensor for real-time water depth tracking, and a reusable LD-3 optical leak sensor. Whether you're managing a complex reef system or demand top-tier control and fail-safes, the Apex Pro is built for total system insight and control. Key Features: - Tracks: Temp, pH, ORP, water depth (LLS), multi-surface leaks (LD-3) - Includes: EB832 (8 outlets, 3x 1LINK, 2x 24V), LLS, LD-3 sensor - App Control: Apex Fusion cloud access with digital/visual readouts - Expandable: Dual pH/ORP ports, salinity (via PM2), and 0–10V control - Probes: Lab-grade temp, pH, and ORP (double-junction) - Power: 120V via Energy Bar 832 - Connectivity: WiFi + Ethernet

Choosing the Right Aquarium Controller for Your Setup:

Neptune Apex Aquarium Controllers:
Neptune’s Apex line offers a modular, high-performance solution for serious reef keepers. Monitor temperature, pH, salinity, and ORP while automating lighting, dosing, feeding, and more through the Apex Fusion app. The system is fully expandable and integrates seamlessly with Neptune add-ons like the Trident, DOS, and AFS.

Hydros Aquarium Controllers:
Hydros controllers are known for their versatility, durability, and ease of use. With an IP65 waterproof rating, built-in WiFi, and a mobile-first interface, Hydros offers a plug-and-play alternative to traditional controller ecosystems. Options range from entry-level (like the Control X2) to fully scalable systems like the Control X10.

Apex Jr and Entry-Level Hydros Units:
Perfect for hobbyists who want basic monitoring without the complexity of a full system. These compact units can handle essentials like temperature control, equipment scheduling, and leak detection — and can be expanded over time.

Add-On Modules & Accessories:
From dosing pumps and PAR sensors to leak detectors and flow monitors, aquarium controllers support a range of accessories that grow with your reef. Hydros and Neptune both offer sensor-driven automation that helps prevent equipment failures and improve long-term stability.

Optimizing Aquarium Controller Performance

Start Simple, Scale Over Time:
Both Hydros and Neptune controllers are modular by design. Begin with core functions like temperature control, lighting schedules, and equipment automation — then expand into dosing, leak detection, and water chemistry monitoring as your tank matures.

Set Up Alerts for Critical Parameters:
Whether you're monitoring pH, salinity, temperature, or ORP, be sure to set threshold-based alerts through your controller’s app (Hydros App or Apex Fusion). These instant notifications can help you catch issues like heater failures, pump shutdowns, or chemical imbalances before they impact your livestock.

Use Automation for Routine Stability:
Take advantage of scheduling features to automate common tasks like lighting cycles, ATO operation, or feed pauses. This reduces manual input and keeps your tank environment consistent — especially helpful for coral health and fish feeding behavior.

Pair with Dosing Systems for Hands-Off Supplementation:
Connect your controller to a dosing pump (like the Hydros Doser or Neptune DOS) to automate the delivery of calcium, alkalinity, and magnesium. This ensures more stable levels and frees you from daily manual dosing.

Monitor Data Trends, Not Just Daily Readings:
Use your controller’s built-in logging to track trends in pH, temperature, and salinity over time. Spotting long-term drifts can help you adjust equipment settings or maintenance routines before they lead to problems.

Expert Tips

Label Your Equipment in the App

Once you’ve connected your devices, take a few minutes to label each outlet, sensor, or dosing head in the Hydros App or Apex Fusion dashboard. Clear naming helps avoid mistakes when making changes or troubleshooting.

Use Redundancy Where It Matters

For critical systems like heating or return pumps, set up fail-safes using dual sensors or backup devices. For example, you can program a second heater to kick on only if the primary fails — or trigger an alert if temperature readings don’t match across sensors.

Plan Cable Management Early

Controller setups can get messy fast. Use labeled zip ties, Velcro straps, or cable holders to keep wires tidy and separated by function (power, sensors, dosing lines). This makes future maintenance safer and more organized.

Enable Feed Modes and Maintenance Profiles

Create custom presets that turn off pumps, skimmers, and lighting during feedings or water changes. Both Hydros and Apex allow you to automate these actions at the push of a button, making maintenance cleaner and more efficient.

Keep a Manual Backup for Key Systems

Even with automation, always have manual tools on hand — like a thermometer, power strip, or dosing containers. In case of a controller failure or power outage, you’ll still be able to maintain your system manually.

Installation & Maintenance

Installing Your Aquarium Controller

Hydros Controllers:
Most Hydros units are plug-and-play and can be wall-mounted or placed on a dry, secure surface near your sump or tank. Use the Hydros App to walk through the initial setup process, connect devices wirelessly, and assign sensors or outlets as needed. Make sure to keep all control units above water level and away from splash zones. Magnetic mounts and probe holders are available to help organize sensors neatly in your sump or display.

Neptune Apex Systems:
Start by mounting the Apex base unit and Energy Bar in a well-ventilated, dry area — ideally inside a control cabinet or above your sump. Use AquaBus cables to link expansion modules, and install probes (temperature, pH, salinity) in a low-flow section of your sump using probe holders. Once connected, complete setup through the Apex Fusion dashboard. Be sure to label outlets and assign fail-safes early in the process.

Dosing Pumps and Sensors:
Whether you’re using Hydros or Neptune dosing accessories, mount them securely above your dosing containers to prevent back-siphoning. Run dosing lines cleanly using clips or holders, and label each line for quick reference. Leak detectors, flow sensors, and float switches should be placed according to manufacturer guidelines — typically in high-risk areas like under the sump or around ATO reservoirs.

Maintenance Tips for Aquarium Controllers

Clean Probes Monthly: Use only the recommended calibration and cleaning solutions for pH, salinity, and ORP probes. Never use tap water or abrasives.
Check Cables and Connections: Inspect AquaBus, 1LINK, and sense port cables for corrosion or looseness. Reroute any that are exposed to splash zones or strain.
Dust & Wipe Down Equipment: Salt creep and dust can build up over time. Wipe down control units, Energy Bars, and mounting brackets monthly to maintain airflow and prevent overheating.
Test Alerts and Backup Systems: Run periodic checks on alarms, leak detectors, and emergency power settings to make sure your safeguards are functioning properly.

Keep Firmware Up to Date: Check for updates in the Hydros App or Apex Fusion and apply new firmware versions to unlock features and ensure compatibility with new accessories.

Aquarium Controllers FAQs

What does an aquarium controller actually do?

An aquarium controller acts as the brain of your reef system. It continuously monitors key parameters like temperature, pH, salinity, and ORP, and automates equipment like lights, heaters, ATOs, and dosers based on those readings. It can alert you via app or email if something goes wrong—like a heater failure or dosing error—allowing you to fix issues before they impact your livestock.

Which controller is better — Hydros or Neptune?

Both Hydros and Neptune Systems offer powerful tools for automating and monitoring your reef tank. Hydros is more modular and expandable, with a highly flexible design that allows you to connect a wide variety of sensors, accessories, and third-party equipment. Its Control Bus architecture makes adding new devices simple and scalable. Neptune Systems is known for its Apex Fusion platform and reliable performance within its own ecosystem, offering strong integration with Neptune-branded gear. The best choice depends on your setup and whether you prefer an open, modular platform (Hydros) or a more unified brand-specific system (Neptune).

Can I start with a basic controller and expand later?

Absolutely. Most aquarium controllers are designed to grow with your system. You can start with a simple setup—like monitoring temperature and controlling a couple of outlets—and add more features over time, such as leak sensors, automatic water changes, dosing control, and pH monitoring. This makes them ideal for both beginner and advanced reefers.

Do I need a controller for a beginner reef tank?

While not essential, a controller can make a beginner’s life much easier. It automates repetitive tasks, reduces the risk of common equipment failures, and gives you peace of mind—especially when you're away from home. Even basic controllers help maintain more consistent parameters, which is one of the most important factors in long-term reef success.

How often should I calibrate the probes?

For the most accurate readings, pH and salinity probes should be calibrated every 4 to 6 weeks using high-quality calibration solutions. Over time, probes can drift or become less responsive, especially in high-nutrient reef systems. Regular calibration ensures your controller continues to dose, alert, and manage your tank based on reliable data.

Aquarium Controllers

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Aquarium Controller Top Picks

Choosing the Right Aquarium Controller for Your Setup: