The filter is very quiet, like the fluval 207 that I have in another aquarium. It has a very good water flow with adjustment at the inlet and outlet. It has a fairly large basket with small baskets, all of which have a sponge. Personally, I put two sponges in the two baskets and biological material in the rest. In the first basket where the pump attaches, I cut and added my own sponge to catch the dirty water and hold larger particles. The plastic of the basket looks durable, just be careful with the hoses as they don't seem to withstand much force. For its price, it is very fair and comparable in terms of quality, performance, basket space, and price. I couldn't find anything similar, so I am very satisfied. Only time will tell if the motor will hold up