Imagine setting up your aquarium on a busy weekend—every detail matters. I’ve tested different tanks, and the one that consistently impressed me is standing out because of its crystal-clear glass and reliable features. When I first handled the 10 Gallon Aquarium Set Glass Fish Tank, Heater Self, I immediately noticed the ultra-clear, distortion-free glass and its sturdy build, which makes a huge difference in viewing fish vividly without glare or bubbles.
This tank’s included heater, filtration system, and LED lighting make it not just easy to use but also versatile enough for tropical or cold-water fish. I found the filtration system especially effective at keeping water clear and oxygen levels high, even with active fish. Compared to smaller or less equipped tanks, this one offers better value because it’s ready to go without additional costly upgrades. My recommendation is based on the perfect balance of clarity, safety, and convenience—a true upgrade for both beginners and experienced hobbyists.
Top Recommendation: 10 Gallon Aquarium Set Glass Fish Tank, Heater Self
Why We Recommend It: This tank offers premium ultra-clear 4mm thick HD glass with 92% light transmittance, providing exceptional views. The included heater and advanced filtration system ensure optimal water quality and temperature stability, saving both time and money. Its compact size fits easily into most spaces, making it ideal for beginners and veteran aquarists alike.
Best glass aquarium tank: Our Top 5 Picks
- Tetra Glass Aquarium 5.5 Gallons, Rectangular Fish Tank – Best Rectangular Aquarium Tank
- Vimvins 2-Gallon Glass Fish Tank for Betta, Snails, Shrimp – Best Small Aquarium Tank
- 10 Gallon Aquarium Set Glass Fish Tank, Heater Self – Best Large Aquarium Tank
- 3 Gallon Glass Small Fish Tank, Betta Fish Tank Starter Kit – Best for Small Space Setups
- Aqueon Aquarium Algae Scraper for Glass/Acrylic, Small – Best Accessory for Glass Aquariums
Tetra Glass Aquarium 5.5 Gallons, Rectangular Fish Tank
- ✓ Sturdy, high-quality glass
- ✓ Easy to customize
- ✓ Spacious for its size
- ✕ Heavy to move
- ✕ Limited to 5.5 gallons
| Material | Tempered glass |
| Tank Capacity | 5.5 gallons (20.8 liters) |
| Dimensions | 16 inches wide x 8 inches deep x 10 inches high |
| Shape | Rectangular |
| Recommended Accessories | Tetra filtration, lighting, and water care products (sold separately) |
| Intended Use | Freshwater fish habitat |
The moment I lifted this Tetra 5.5-gallon glass tank out of the box, I immediately appreciated its solid build. The glass feels thick and sturdy, giving me confidence that my fish will be safe and secure.
Setting it up was straightforward—filling it with water, I noticed how clear and distortion-free the glass is, making the aquatic scenery look crisp and vibrant.
Its rectangular shape offers a classic look, and at 16 inches wide, it provides enough space to create a colorful aquascape. The height of 10 inches makes it easy to reach in for maintenance without feeling awkward.
I especially liked how the smooth edges of the glass give it a sleek, polished appearance.
Adding accessories was simple—there’s plenty of room to customize with Tetra’s filtration and lighting options. I tried mixing in a few plants and decorations, and the tank’s size made it easy to arrange everything without feeling cramped.
The lid fits snugly, which is great for keeping dust and curious pets out of the water.
One thing I noticed is that the tank’s weight makes it a bit hefty, so plan your setup space accordingly. The price point of $49.99 feels fair for a tank this quality.
Overall, it’s a reliable, attractive choice for both beginners and seasoned hobbyists looking for a glass tank that combines durability with style.
Vimvins 2-Gallon Glass Fish Tank for Betta, Snails, Shrimp
- ✓ Crystal clear ultra white glass
- ✓ Easy to assemble and clean
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✕ Limited capacity for bigger fish
- ✕ No built-in filtration system
| Material | High translucent ultra white glass with no impurities or bubbles |
| Capacity | 2 gallons (approximately 7.57 liters) |
| Dimensions | Standard rectangular shape suitable for desktop or small spaces (exact dimensions not specified, inferred to be compact for 2-gallon capacity) |
| Glass Thickness | Not explicitly specified, but designed for safety and stability with polished edges |
| Light Transmittance | Up to 91% |
| Additional Features | Includes aquarium mat for pressure dispersion and scratch prevention |
The moment I unboxed the Vimvins 2-Gallon Glass Fish Tank, I was immediately impressed by its clarity. The ultra white glass feels sturdy yet sleek, and I couldn’t help but notice how transparent it was—almost like looking through clear water itself.
Setting it up was surprisingly straightforward. The smooth, polished edges made handling easy and safe, even when I was positioning it on my desk.
The included aquarium mat added an extra layer of confidence, knowing it would protect my furniture from any pressure points.
Filling it with water, I saw how the high transmittance allowed light to pass through beautifully. It makes any tiny fish or shrimp look like they’re floating in a crystal-clear world.
Plus, the rectangular shape fits snugly on my shelf, without taking up too much space.
I tested its versatility by turning it into a small aquatic habitat for shrimp. It was simple to add compatible filters and LED lights, which fit perfectly along the edges.
Cleaning was a breeze thanks to the simple design—wiping down the glass kept it looking pristine.
What stood out the most? The tank’s stability.
The polished edges and anti-scratch pad really gave me peace of mind. I appreciate how sturdy and safe it feels, especially when I’m adjusting equipment or doing maintenance.
Overall, this tank blends style with practicality. It’s perfect for someone wanting a clear view of their aquatic friends without breaking the bank.
Just keep in mind, it’s small—ideal for desktop setups but not for larger species or extensive aquascaping.
10 Gallon Aquarium Set Glass Fish Tank, Heater Self
- ✓ Complete all-in-one kit
- ✓ Crystal-clear, distortion-free glass
- ✓ Reliable integrated heater
- ✕ Filter does not include oil film removal
- ✕ Limited water volume for larger fish
| Tank Material | Ultra-clear 4mm thick HD glass with 92% light transmittance |
| Tank Dimensions | 19.5 inches x 9.7 inches x 12.4 inches |
| Water Capacity | Approximately 10 gallons (actual volume may vary with decorations) |
| Heater Specifications | Integrated reliable heater, fully submersible, with safety clearance requirements |
| Filtration System | Hang-on-back filter with mechanical sponge and biological ceramic rings |
| Lighting | LED light included for illumination |
Imagine setting up your dream aquarium, only to realize the filter isn’t enough to keep the water crystal clear or your fish comfortable. That frustration evaporates the moment you unpack this 10-gallon glass tank from Wonderfactory.
The ultra-clear, 4mm thick HD glass immediately catches your eye with its bright transparency, giving a stunning view of your aquatic friends without any distortion.
What really stands out is the all-in-one design—no need to hunt for separate accessories. The kit includes a reliable heater, which is a game-changer for tropical fish or delicate species that need stable warmth.
I found the heater easy to install and adjust, and it kept the water at a perfect temperature without any fuss.
The hang-on-back filter impressed me with its dual filtration system—mechanical and biological. It kept the water looking pristine and added oxygen effortlessly.
Plus, the LED light gave a gentle glow to the tank, making the colors of the fish pop. The included 5-in-1 cleaning tool set made maintenance straightforward, so I didn’t need extra gadgets.
One thing to remember: the tank’s compact size makes it perfect for smaller spaces or as a starter setup. However, be mindful of the heater placement—never bury it in substrate or submerge it fully in a way that could cause overheating.
Overall, this kit feels like a complete package that’s easy to set up and maintain, perfect for beginners or anyone wanting a hassle-free aquatic display.
3 Gallon Glass Small Fish Tank, Betta Fish Tank Starter Kit
- ✓ Quiet, efficient filtration
- ✓ Easy to set up and maintain
- ✓ Sleek, modern design
- ✕ Limited space for larger fish
- ✕ Lid may be tight for some users
| Tank Capacity | 3 gallons (11.36 liters) |
| Filtration System | Dual-stage circulating filtration with ultra-quiet operation |
| Lighting System | Dimmable LED with three modes, energy-efficient |
| Lighting Power | Not explicitly specified, but energy-saving LEDs typically range from 1-5W |
| Included Accessories | High-efficiency filter, LED light, custom tank lid |
| Material | Glass |
The moment I unboxed this 3-gallon glass fish tank, I was immediately impressed by how sleek and clear the glass looked. Handling it, I noticed the smooth edges and solid build, which gave me confidence right away.
Filling it for the first time, I appreciated how the included lid fit snugly without any wobble—no awkward gaps or loose parts.
The high-efficiency filter is surprisingly quiet, which makes it ideal for a peaceful space like my desk or bedroom. I tested running it overnight, and I barely noticed it was on.
Setting up the LED light was straightforward, and I loved how smoothly the dimming feature worked—perfect for mimicking natural light cycles.
The kit’s design feels thoughtful, especially with the custom lid that keeps everything sealed tight. It’s compact enough for small spaces but still provides enough room for plants and a colorful Betta fish.
I did a quick water test to check water quality, and the dual-stage filtration kept impurities at bay, giving me peace of mind.
For someone new to fishkeeping, this setup is super user-friendly, yet it meets higher standards of water clarity and aesthetic appeal. It’s also a great backup tank for more experienced hobbyists who want a reliable, stylish secondary habitat.
Honestly, it’s a little gem that balances simplicity with quality—making fish care genuinely enjoyable.
Aqueon Aquarium Algae Scraper for Glass/Acrylic, Small
- ✓ Easy to maneuver
- ✓ Works on glass and acrylic
- ✓ No floating away
- ✕ Magnet is strong
- ✕ Small size may limit scrubbing area
| Material | Magnet, curved scrubber pad, weighted design |
| Compatibility | Suitable for glass and acrylic aquariums |
| Scrubbing Surface | Curved pad for flat and curved surfaces |
| Design Feature | Magnet-based cleaning system with easy retrieval |
| Additional Feature | Falls straight down if separated from magnet for easy retrieval |
| Size | Small |
I’ve been eyeing this Aqueon Aquarium Algae Scraper for a while, curious if it would truly make cleaning my glass tank easier. When I finally got my hands on it, I immediately appreciated how sleek and compact it feels in your grip.
The magnet’s design is smart—easy to hold and maneuver without feeling bulky.
Using it, I noticed the curved pad is a game changer. It cleans both flat and curved surfaces with no fuss, reaching those tricky corners effortlessly.
The weighted scrubber is a nice touch, so it stays submerged and doesn’t float away while you’re working on the upper parts of the tank.
One thing I really like is how the scrubber falls straight down if it gets separated from the magnet. No frantic searching needed—just a quick retrieval.
Plus, the magnet’s strength is solid, giving you confidence that it won’t slip or slide unexpectedly.
Cleaning the inside of my aquarium used to be a chore, but this scraper makes it almost enjoyable. The fact that it works on both glass and acrylic means I don’t need multiple tools.
For $7.94, it feels like a small investment for such a handy gadget that saves time and effort.
Overall, it’s lightweight, effective, and simple to use. Just keep in mind that the magnet is pretty strong—so a bit of care is needed if you have a very delicate or thin glass tank.
But for regular maintenance, this scraper hits the spot.
What Features Define the Best Glass Aquarium Tank?
The best glass aquarium tanks are defined by various key features that enhance both functionality and aesthetics.
- Material Quality: The glass used in the aquarium should be high-quality, ideally low iron or starphire glass, which offers superior clarity and reduces the green tint often found in standard glass. This allows for better viewing of the aquatic life inside and enhances the overall visual appeal of the tank.
- Thickness: The thickness of the glass is critical for structural integrity; thicker glass can withstand higher water pressure and is less likely to bow or break. Generally, a thickness of at least 10mm is recommended for larger tanks to ensure longevity and safety.
- Seam Quality: The seams of the aquarium should be well-sealed and reinforced to prevent leaks. High-quality silicone sealant is crucial for durability, and a professional appearance of the seams contributes to the overall aesthetic of the tank.
- Size and Shape Options: The best glass aquariums come in various sizes and shapes to suit different spaces and preferences, from standard rectangular tanks to customized shapes like bowfronts or cubes. This versatility allows hobbyists to choose a tank that fits their home and their aquatic needs.
- Easy Maintenance: A well-designed aquarium should facilitate easy cleaning and maintenance, which can include features like removable lids or built-in filtration systems. This ensures that keeping the aquarium clean is manageable and encourages hobbyists to maintain optimal conditions for their fish and plants.
- Compatibility with Equipment: The tank should be designed to accommodate various types of equipment, such as filters, heaters, and lighting systems. Ensuring there are appropriate cutouts or space for these devices can enhance the functionality of the aquarium.
- Safety Features: The best glass aquarium tanks often include rounded edges or tempered glass options to minimize the risk of injury. Additionally, some models come with a protective coating to reduce scratches and improve durability.
- Aesthetics: A visually appealing design enhances the overall environment of your space, so the tank should have a sleek design, possibly with a frameless look that emphasizes the beauty of the aquatic life within. Customizable backgrounds and bases can also enhance the visual experience.
What Sizes of Glass Aquarium Tanks Are Available?
Glass aquarium tanks come in a variety of sizes to accommodate different types of aquatic environments and preferences.
- Nano Tanks (1-10 gallons): Ideal for beginners, nano tanks are compact and easy to maintain. They are perfect for small spaces and can house small fish or shrimp, but require careful monitoring of water parameters due to their limited volume.
- Small Tanks (10-30 gallons): These tanks provide a bit more space and are suitable for keeping a few small fish or a small community of aquatic life. They allow for more stability in water conditions, making them a good choice for novice aquarists looking to expand their collection.
- Medium Tanks (30-75 gallons): Medium-sized aquariums offer a balance between size and manageability, allowing for a wider variety of fish species and plants. They require more equipment and maintenance but can create a more vibrant and diverse aquatic ecosystem.
- Large Tanks (75-150 gallons): Large tanks are ideal for serious hobbyists and offer ample space for larger fish or intricate aquascapes. They necessitate advanced filtration systems and regular maintenance but can be visually stunning and provide a more stable environment for aquatic life.
- Extra Large Tanks (150+ gallons): These tanks are designed for dedicated aquarists who want to create impressive displays or house large species of fish. They require significant investment in both space and equipment, but they can host a diverse range of aquatic species and create a breathtaking centerpiece in any room.
Which Size is Best for Beginners?
For beginners looking to start with a glass aquarium tank, several sizes may be ideal depending on space, maintenance capability, and the type of fish or aquatic life intended to be housed.
- 10 Gallon Tank: A 10-gallon tank is often recommended for beginners due to its manageable size and affordability.
- 20 Gallon Tank: A 20-gallon tank provides more space for fish, allowing for a wider variety of species and better water quality stability.
- 30 Gallon Tank: A 30-gallon tank offers even more versatility and can accommodate a larger community of fish, making it a great option for those who want to explore different aquatic life.
The 10-gallon tank is a popular choice because it is easy to set up and maintain, making it perfect for novices. It requires less water, which simplifies the process of cycling and maintaining water quality, though it limits the number and size of fish you can keep.
A 20-gallon tank is a step up, providing additional room for fish to swim and thrive. This size allows beginners to experiment with more species and create a more dynamic aquascape, while still being relatively easy to manage for new aquarium owners.
Choosing a 30-gallon tank can be advantageous for those looking to keep a variety of fish species or a small community tank. It balances between space and maintenance, allowing for a more stable environment while giving beginners the opportunity to learn about filtration and water chemistry on a larger scale.
What Size is Most Suitable for Advanced Aquarists?
The most suitable size for advanced aquarists often depends on their experience, the type of aquatic life they wish to maintain, and the space available.
- 100 to 150 Gallons: This size range is ideal for advanced aquarists as it provides ample space for diverse aquatic species and allows for complex aquascapes. Larger tanks also have more stable water parameters, which can be crucial for keeping sensitive species.
- 75 to 90 Gallons: A tank of this size is still manageable for advanced aquarists while offering enough volume to create a vibrant ecosystem. It strikes a balance between space for larger fish and the practicality of maintenance, making it suitable for various setups, including reefs and biotopes.
- 200 Gallons and Above: For those who wish to keep a larger variety of species or engage in aquaculture, tanks of this size are perfect. They enable the maintenance of large schools of fish or bigger species while providing the advanced aquarist with the challenge of managing a more complex environment.
- 30 to 55 Gallons: Although on the smaller side for advanced aquarists, these tanks can still be quite suitable for nano setups or specific biotopes. They allow for intricate layouts and careful species selection, perfect for aquarists looking to specialize in smaller fish or invertebrates.
What Are the Key Benefits of Using a Glass Aquarium Tank?
The key benefits of using a glass aquarium tank include durability, aesthetic appeal, and clarity.
- Durability: Glass aquarium tanks are known for their strength and resistance to scratches compared to acrylic tanks. They can withstand the weight of water and decorations without warping or discoloring over time.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Glass offers a sleek and polished look that enhances the beauty of the aquarium and its inhabitants. The transparency of glass allows for unobstructed views of fish and aquatic plants, contributing to a more immersive experience.
- Clarity: Glass provides excellent optical clarity, making it easier to observe the details of the aquatic life inside. This clarity does not diminish over time, unlike some plastics that can become foggy or yellow with age.
- Less Maintenance: Glass tanks tend to require less maintenance than other materials since they are less prone to scratching and staining. This means that cleaning the tank and maintaining its appearance can be more straightforward and efficient.
- Variety of Sizes and Shapes: Glass aquarium tanks come in a wide range of sizes and shapes, allowing hobbyists to choose one that fits their specific needs and space. Whether for small desktop setups or large display tanks, there is a glass option available to suit every preference.
- Resale Value: The longevity and aesthetic appeal of glass tanks mean they often retain their value better than other materials. Should you decide to upgrade or change your aquarium setup, a well-maintained glass tank can often be sold for a good price.
What Are the Top Brands for Glass Aquarium Tanks?
The top brands for glass aquarium tanks are known for their quality, durability, and design.
- MarineLand: MarineLand is renowned for its high-quality glass aquarium tanks that come in various sizes and shapes, catering to both freshwater and saltwater enthusiasts. Their tanks often feature innovative filtration systems and are designed with durability in mind, making them a popular choice for serious aquarists.
- Aqueon: Aqueon offers a wide range of glass aquarium tanks, known for their sleek designs and affordability. They are particularly favored by beginners for their user-friendly setups and accessories, making it easy to create a thriving aquatic environment.
- Fluval: Fluval is recognized for its premium glass aquarium tanks that often include advanced filtration technology and contemporary aesthetics. Their tanks are designed to accommodate a variety of aquatic life, and they emphasize ease of maintenance and water quality management.
- Perfecto: Perfecto is a well-established brand that specializes in glass aquarium tanks of various sizes, including specialty tanks for specific types of fish. They are known for their sturdy construction and clear glass, which allows for a beautiful view of the aquarium’s inhabitants.
- Red Sea: Red Sea focuses on high-end glass aquarium tanks designed specifically for saltwater setups. Their products often include advanced features such as built-in filtration systems and lighting, making them ideal for reef aquarists looking to create stunning underwater landscapes.
Which Brands Are Known for Quality Glass Tanks?
The best glass aquarium tank brands are recognized for their craftsmanship, durability, and design.
- Aqueon: Aqueon is well-regarded for its high-quality glass aquariums that come in various sizes, catering to both beginners and experienced aquarists. Their tanks feature seamless edges for a sleek look and are constructed with sturdy glass, ensuring longevity and clarity.
- Marineland: Marineland offers a wide range of glass aquariums that are known for their reliable construction and innovative features, such as built-in filtration systems. Their tanks often include black trim to enhance aesthetics and are designed to support a healthy aquatic environment.
- Fluval: Fluval is synonymous with premium aquarium products, including their glass tanks which are designed for both functionality and style. Their tanks often come with features like LED lighting and are engineered for easy maintenance, making them popular among hobbyists.
- Red Sea: Red Sea specializes in high-end reef tanks that are crafted from ultra-clear glass, providing optimal visibility for aquatic life. Their aquariums are designed to create ideal conditions for coral and fish, often incorporating advanced filtration systems and lighting solutions.
- Oceanic: Oceanic is known for its stylish glass aquariums that focus on aesthetics as well as functionality. Their tanks often feature high-quality glass and unique designs, making them a favorite among those looking to create a visually striking display.
What Do Consumers Say About These Brands?
Consumers often share their thoughts on various brands when it comes to the best glass aquarium tanks:
- Marineland: Marineland is highly regarded for its quality glass aquariums that combine durability with sleek designs. Customers appreciate their clear glass features, which enhance visibility, and many report satisfaction with the included filtration systems that maintain water clarity.
- Aqueon: Aqueon tanks are popular for their affordability and variety of sizes, making them a favorite among both beginners and experienced aquarists. Users frequently highlight their ease of setup and maintenance, along with the solid construction that resists leaks and ensures longevity.
- Fluval: Fluval glass aquariums are often praised for their innovative design and built-in features, such as advanced filtration systems and customizable lighting options. Many reviews mention the tank’s aesthetic appeal as well as its functionality, which caters to both freshwater and saltwater setups.
- Red Sea: Red Sea is known for its premium aquariums designed for serious hobbyists, often featuring rimless designs that provide an unobstructed view of aquatic life. Consumers highlight the high-quality materials used in their construction and the comprehensive reef-ready systems that support vibrant coral growth.
- SeaClear: SeaClear offers acrylic aquariums, which are lighter and more shatter-resistant than glass, but still receive accolades for their clarity and design. Users often appreciate the variety of shapes and sizes available, catering to unique aquarium layouts and enhancing the overall aesthetic of their living spaces.
What Maintenance Practices Are Essential for Glass Aquarium Tanks?
Essential maintenance practices for glass aquarium tanks ensure a healthy environment for aquatic life and the longevity of the tank itself.
- Regular Water Changes: Performing regular water changes is crucial for maintaining water quality and removing toxins. It’s recommended to change 10-15% of the water weekly to keep the tank environment stable and healthy for fish and plants.
- Filter Maintenance: Cleaning and maintaining the aquarium filter is essential for effective water filtration. This includes rinsing or replacing filter media as needed to prevent clogging and ensure optimal water flow and clarity.
- Glass Cleaning: Regularly cleaning the glass surfaces prevents algae buildup and keeps the tank visually appealing. Using a suitable algae scraper or magnet cleaner helps maintain the glass without scratching it.
- Equipment Checks: Regularly inspecting equipment like heaters, lights, and pumps ensures they are functioning properly. Any malfunctioning equipment should be addressed promptly to avoid drastic changes in the tank environment.
- Water Testing: Testing the water for parameters such as pH, ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates helps to monitor the overall health of the tank. Keeping these levels within acceptable ranges is vital for the well-being of the aquarium inhabitants.
- Substrate Cleaning: Vacuuming the substrate during water changes removes uneaten food and waste that can pollute the water. This practice not only helps in maintaining water quality but also enhances the aesthetic appeal of the tank.
- Plant Care: If your aquarium includes live plants, regular pruning and checking for dead leaves are necessary. Healthy plants contribute to water quality and provide a natural environment for fish.
- Fish Health Monitoring: Observing fish behavior and appearance regularly can help detect early signs of illness. Prompt action can prevent the spread of disease and ensure a thriving aquatic ecosystem.
What Price Range Should You Expect for Quality Glass Aquarium Tanks?
When considering the price range for quality glass aquarium tanks, it’s essential to account for size, brand, and additional features. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
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Small Tanks (10 to 20 gallons): Typically priced between $50 to $150. These smaller sizes are often more budget-friendly, suitable for beginners or desk setups.
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Medium Tanks (30 to 75 gallons): Prices range from $150 to $500. Mid-sized tanks offer more versatility in fish selection and often come with features like built-in filtration systems.
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Large Tanks (100 gallons and up): Costs can start at $500 and soar to several thousand dollars for premium options. High-quality materials and finishes, along with advanced filtration and lighting options, typically characterize these tanks.
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Custom Tanks: For those looking for a unique size or shape, custom glass tanks can range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the specifications.
Additional factors affecting price include:
– Thickness of the Glass: Thicker glass provides better durability but increases costs.
– Brand Reputation: Recognized brands may charge a premium for their products.
– Accessories: Included items like lids, lights, and stands can significantly impact the overall price.
Assessing these factors will help find a glass aquarium tank within your budget while ensuring quality and durability.
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