From the manufacturer
Testing the Waters
In order for fish to thrive, water must be similar to that which could be found in their natural environment. Poor water quality can cause fish stress, illness and even loss. Most common water quality parameters are Ammonia, Nitrite, Nitrate, and pH. All may vary over time and all are invisible to the eye which is why it is important to test weekly. Testing aquarium water weekly will aid in keeping your most important water parameters within the proper range for your aquarium. Choose from a wide range of API testing options, such as our popular FRESHWATER MASTER TEST KIT or 5-IN-1 TEST STRIPS, for accurate water evaluation. Regular testing will help you easily determine your aquarium conditions.
Find Your Ideal Testing Style!
Your API Test Options
Choose the test method that works best for you. Whether you’re a bit pressed for time, or you prefer to measure your parameters on a more in-depth scale, or you only need to test one or two specific parameters, API has what you need!
Dip and Read
Just dip a 5-in-1 TEST STRIP in your aquarium, swirl twice, and compare to our color chart for fast and accurate results.
The Scientific Approach
For more detailed analysis, use the FRESHWATER MASTER TEST KIT, POND MASTER TEST KIT, SALTWATER MASTER TEST KIT, or REEF MASTER TEST KIT for precise readings of parameters.
Pick One (or Two)
Need to check your phosphate levels? What about ammonia? API offers specific test kits to test many different parameters, from general hardness and copper to pH and nitrate. Grab the one you need for a streamlined approach to testing.
API QUICK START API AMMO-LOCK API pH UP API pH DOWN API NITRA-ZORB API PHOS-ZORB Too much nitrites? ✓ ✓ Too much ammonia? ✓ ✓ ✓ Inappropriate pH levels? ✓ ✓ Too much nitrates? ✓ Too much phosphates? ✓
Making a Better Underwater World
At API, we understand the rewards and relaxation of fishkeeping because we have a passion for fish too. For almost 60 years API has developed premium solutions with proven and effective results for your family and ours. API offers a range of testing kits, water conditioners, and nutritionally superior food, because we’re dedicated to making a better underwater world.
Peter Suslock –
5.0 out of 5 stars
A Must Have Test Kit For Every Level Of Hobbyist
API is a giant among companies that provide aquarium related products.They have maintained their sound reputation by offering innovative products and resisting the temptation to tamper with those which are already established and are time proven, dependable performers.The Fresh Water Master Test Kit belongs in the arsenal of tank maintenance and care products for every level of hobbyist from beginner to advanced.It’s important to understand that these kits provide an indication only – it’s unrealistic to expect a pin point reading as the tests aren’t intended nor made to deliver that. But rather, to enable you to get a decent reading of say, where your PH level is knowing the accuracy may be off a few points sure beats shelling out $200 for a good digital PH meter.It’s critical to understand these limitations and that they apply to everyone of the four included tests.PHHigh Range PHAmmoniaNitritesNitratesFor must of us, Ammonia is the most important because it’s the number one killer of aquarium kept fish. The others are important of course, but Ammonia levels should always be checked and checked often. It’s also important to pay attention to the expiration dates of the liquid reagents. Expired reagents mean off the charts inaccurate readings. Along with the liquid reagents the kit includes, instructions both in a small manual and attached to each bottle of testing liquid, four test tube, four plastic caps and a color chart.To ensure you get the most accurate reading possible compare the finished result to the card color block in the best possible light and against the most pure white background you can find. Just like computer monitors many of us see color differently which is the inherent draw back of this type of testing. But again, there is nothing else on the market at this kind of price point which can give you enough information to correct and adjust your key water parameters.If you’re just starting out in this wonderful hobby, you’ll master using this kit in no time and it will help you maintain a healthy and flourishing aquarium. Remember to never, ever rinse even cleaned test tubes in your tank water – even very small traces of testing reagents can be lethal to your fish.Draw water from your tank using a large plastic syringe available at any drug store, super market, or add one to cart from Amazon.For a full range of tests that cover the four most significant parameters you need to stay on top of – you can’t beat the API Master test kits, not at this price. You can also buy replacement API test tubes which are sold in boxes of a dozen or 24 at a reasonable price, and a steal at Amazon.
5 people found this helpful
FFFFFF-000000 –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Pretty good
accurate
Rebecca –
3.0 out of 5 stars
Need better test tubes
This is a great product however the glass test tubes are quite fragile. 2 of mine broke just by taking the caps off. It would be perfect if the test tubes didn’t break. I now have to order new test tubes.
CliffyPop –
4.0 out of 5 stars
Comprehensive aquarium test kit seems accurate, test tubes break easily
I’ve been using this kit for 2 months and all seems easy and accurate. My local fish shop has professional testing equipment and results from this kit are similar. It’s easy to test, instructions are okay, and only takes about 15 minutes to do 5 tests.Reason for 4 stars is the test tube situation. First, there are 5 tests but only 4 tubes are included. Arguably, one of the pH tests can be ignored depending on your aquarium needs, yet that’s not stated in the instructions so it isn’t clear that only 4 tests are needed. Second, the tubes are super delicate. Like REALLY delicate so that it’s easy to crush them in your hands while trying to remove the very snug caps. Why are the caps so hard to get off? Worse, the seats in the plastic housing for securing the tubes are prone to breaking the tubes just by inserting them. The result for me is inside of 2 months I’ve lost 2 tubes to bad design.
Arkansas Rose –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Definately the price is right
I shop a lot for the things I need, because I don’t have a lot of money. When I bought my fish tank I knew I was going to have to test the water. I went from pet shop to pet shop, internet shop to internet shop looking for a resonably price test kit. In one pet shop I got to know one of the fish keepers and he told me this was the best kit for the money. When I went looking for it, I found it to be around $40 to $50 dollars. I looked on amazon and it was on sale for $33 and I knew I couldn’t do any better. To buy the testing kits individually for PH (High or Low), and Ammonia would be around $30 just by themselves. But with this kit I also go Nitrates and Nirites testing, so I am very happy.
3 people found this helpful
Austin –
4.0 out of 5 stars
Great product, but be careful!
First of all, the instructions for these are great. Absolutely clear and easy to follow in order to get good test results. Be very careful with the test tubes. I had one break while taking the cap off. I guess I held it with a little too much pressure, but it broke and sliced my thumb pretty bad. I don’t fault API for this, its glass and glass breaks. However I feel a safer alternative would be plastic.Pros:-Clear instructions and easy to use.-The containers have enough liquid in them to do many tests.-The color chart is easy to read and follow.-Much more accurate than the test strips.Cons:-The glass tubes can break easily.-The container is much larger than it really needs to be. The container can probably be half the size that it is.-Takes more time to get results than with test strips.
3 people found this helpful
Claudia –
3.0 out of 5 stars
Very good
I like it
Lex RouleauLex Rouleau –
4.0 out of 5 stars
Kit reagents faulty (dilute or less active) compared to same API dKH test from LFS.
Buyer beware, these online kits (particularly the KH) is inconsistent and severely in accurate when compared to those bought elaewhere.I bought this 4 test reef kit in large part to monitor my KH. I very early killed my reef because the include KH testing solution is very diluted.A few days before my kit arrived my local fish store measured a dKH of 9.0With a goal of 10-11, I added some buffer equal to what it took to go from 8 to 9 dKH. Boy was I surprised when I reached drop 17 and it still hasn’t change color at all.Tested multiple times after a couple of water removals, the lowest read I got was 13 dKH.The exact same water was actually 8. This was done by using his own store bought API reef kit.The worst part is that Amazon does not allow returns of this product, and there’s no way to swap out this one bottle because there is no 3rd party vendor I’m directed to by Amazon to discuss replacments, nor any person or place to complain to about this faulty equipment (except by writing this review).————Update: I found the place to talk with amazon about this item, and the issue has been resolved because they’ll send me a replacement.So on the one hand you may need to double check the strength of reagenta with a friend’s reef kit – but Amazon is actually pretty helpful and generous when you are finally connected to a real person on the phone.So, -1 star for this bad KH testing batch and the near miss to my tank ecosystem, but that still leaves 4 stars for this kit that is great for the beginner hobbyist.Good luck!
One person found this helpful
nolron –
3.0 out of 5 stars
The components that actually arrived were fine I guess
One of the test solution bottles was missing the eyedropper attachment so there’s no way to get correctly measured drops for that one.I tried contacting the manufacturer. They asked for the lot number and my address to send a replacement, but that was well over month ago and they haven’t responded since.
Jennifer S –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Everything I need.
Should have purchased this a long time ago. Very accurate and easy directions.
Concerned Consumer –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Every fish keeper should have water a test kit
When I got my new Fluval 107 water filter, I was reading the instruction manual, and they recommended that I should have a water test kit. Lucky for me I bought this one because it pretty much tests everything you need to know about your aquarium water such as the pH level, the ammonia level, the nitrates level and the nitrites level. I learned that too much nitrates in the water can kill your fish, which I did not know previously. I’ve had this one fish, a Plecostomus, since it was about 2 inches long. I’ve never used any water other than rainwater in my tank, so I figured it was safe enough and for the past 12 years the fish has grown to almost 12 inches long and seems to be very healthy. But after I bought the Fluval filter, I noticed some erratic behavior. So I moved it to another tank temporarily until I could test the water. The water tested slightly high on the nitrites, so I put a cap full of this product in the tank, which has about 7 gallons of water and the next day, the nitrites were down to zero.On the negative side, there’s nothing in the instructions for this product to say you can use it like I did. Instructions say to dump the whole thing in a new tank. I just happened to learn from my hairstylist, that I could use it by the cap full. The cap even has a measuring cup built into it for 5 mL or 10 mL measurements.So now I am happy and my Pleco is happy.
One person found this helpful
laura –
5.0 out of 5 stars
This is the best toy ever for the aquarium loving human in your life
I recently got back into aquariums and aquascaping as a hobby after many years. I had always used the strips years ago, but as they are crazy inaccurate I wanted to give this a try and now it’s a must have. It’s like a chemistry project or something, and maybe I’m a nerd.. but it’s also a very entertaining way to learn how to better care for your pets or plants.
One person found this helpful
Mueller –
5.0 out of 5 stars
A must have!
I used test strips with my tank for so long and couldn’t get the information I needed accurately and keeps having to start my tank over after failed attempts of adding chemicals. Once I ordered this, I found the issues right away, and got everything under control FAST. Within a few weeks, my ecosystem was balanced and my fish have been alive for 3+ months now. If you are hesitant about the cost, just think about how much the fish cost that you’re reaching and the amount of time you’re spending to start over. This pays pays for itself with getting your time back. Once I run out (if I ever do) I’ll never be without this again.
5 people found this helpful
katiekatie –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Easy enough
The instructions are very clear and easy to understand. Explanations for the results are very appreciated, as well as tips to solve bad results. It’s easy to understand what your results mean. And I feel like a fancy scientist with all the vials and colorful chemicals I’m not supposed to touch.The warnings make the chemicals seem very dangerous and the vials like they’ll almost spontaneously explode in your hand. It’s unnerving and funny at the same time.
3 people found this helpful
civic builder –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Tubes break Easily
We bought the kit online, cheaper than any stores. Had a couple broken tubes and a couple more broke while I was taking the lids off to clean.
Elodia P. –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Fish Keeping Must Have!!
This test kit is something that really shouldn’t be looked over when keeping fish. Test strips just do not cut it at all. They’re wildly inaccurate and just a big no for me. The test is easy enough to use and comes with a full list of instructions and small explanations on each test and why it’s important to check your water levels. The price may look intimidating but this is honestly something I absolutely do not mind spending on the hobby. 10/10, 100% recommend! ❤️
2 people found this helpful
Adam –
5.0 out of 5 stars
It’s good!
It works as intended, I have no complaints. You’ll have to look up the answers to the questions you have yourself though, it doesn’t show said answers in the pamphlet/instructions you receive.
No less, no more –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Super easy to use
Testing your water quality is so important, and this test kit has the major quality issues covered. Would like to see it cover general hardness, too, but like I said, the big ones are covered.The instructions are easy to follow and they do explain why you want to test each of these things. It is on you to figure out what range you should be in for your aquatics, and what to do about it if you’re not in range.
ERICA –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Accurate reading
Accurate reading, easy to use. Will definitely buy again!
Mrs. B –
4.0 out of 5 stars
Lids are different
The kit is good, they changed the lids on the test tubes. When doing water test the lids leak a little while shaking test tube.
Hayley –
4.0 out of 5 stars
Easier than high school chemistry, but similar lab rules apply
Have you passed high school chemistry? (And by pass, I mean be able to follow the rules while in a lab?) Then great! You’ll have no problem using this test kit! However, be aware the instructions are like stupid tiny. I’m only 20 and even with reading glasses on top of my regular glasses these instructions are tiny. API offers a .pdf version of the instructions on their website, so I recommend those more than the little booklet. I also recommend one of those little syringes for like pet medication or human medication. It makes getting the water in the tubes a lot easier and with good accuracy.A lot of reviews mention the test tube caps not being tight when capped. I haven’t had this problem, but also when I invert the tubes, I hold my finger on the cap and at the bottom of the test tube. This was a habit I picked up in college chemistry because sometimes it better to be safe than sorry. Gloves aren’t necessary, but if you feel safer (especially since some of the chemicals are corrosive) then ball out with gloves! A lot of reviews also mention the nitrate test. I’m not a biologist, so I can’t say the accuracy, however, make sure you read the instructions REALLY good as it’s completely different than the others. You add 10 drops of solution bottle 1, shake the tube, shake solution bottle 2 for 30 seconds, add 10 drops, shake the tube for a minute, then wait the 5 minutes to develop.My few complaints is why I’m giving this a 4/5 stars because I feel like they really hinder the product. There’s simply not an appropriate number of tubes. There’s 5 tests, but only 4 tubes. Beyond that, they should really have 6 tubes since accidents are super prone to happen with tiny test tubes like this. Even beyond this, I feel a silicone or even plastic caps that screw with a rubber seal would be icing on the cake to eliminate the leaking and hardening issue. I’m also not buying API’s 24 kit of tubes for a few extra tubes, that’s just ridiculous. My next complaint is I believe they should add the GH and KH test in with this kit. pH, GH, and KH are usually all related to each other, so having that in the kit rather than paying $10 separately for it. I’d rather get it with the kit and pay 5-7 dollars more for the kit. To feed off some other reviews, adding the syringe like I mentioned would be better too since a lot of people probably won’t think about it. Finally, I think a chlorine test would be great since it’s toxic to most fish.However, I do believe in giving credit where credit is due and this kit is affordable which is great for those just starting to get into the hobby! I think the hobby is gate-kept by super expensive products, so having something like this that isn’t $50+ is really helpful for those just starting out! I also love the size of this kit, it’s easy to store. No test kit will probably ever be 100% accurate nor will they probably ever match up, but I feel this is good for America’s market. I say that because I’ve used Sera, which is imported from Germany, and it’s super nice with detailed and intense instructions which makes the tests feel a bit more accurate than this high school chemistry project. (Sorry API). However, the $80 keeps me from repurchasing and instead, buy this one. So, I guess that’s the magic of capitalism and having other bills to pay rather than spending $80+ on a water testing kit. Even after being in the hobby since I was in middle school, I feel a lot of the prices in this hobby prevent people from advancing further and wanting to get into saltwater, reefs, or ponds. I stick with freshwater simply because it’s the cheapest and easiest.Overall, recommend. 7/10, just be aware and take some of the recommendations some reviewers have already said and it should be smooth sailing.
29 people found this helpful
Joseph Schwartz –
4.0 out of 5 stars
Most accurate results on the market
I’ve tried many options. API Master test kit is the most accurate and quickest results
JasonJason –
4.0 out of 5 stars
Measurement line isn’t at 5 ml
The media could not be loaded.
Overall I do like this product. There’s only one real issue I have with it, along with two minor issues.The first issue is the measurement line they tell you to fill to isn’t actually at 5ml. It isn’t a huge issue but I feel for tests that could affect the well being of people’s fish it should be as accurate as possible. The instructions clearly state the line is supposed to be 5ml.I’ve run tests both at the line they provide as well as at 5ml measured with syringes. The results are pretty close but there is slight differences in results.The second issue is that the results can be a little difficult to read. It’s definitely easier to read than other tests I’ve tried, but I do struggle sometimes if the color is between the faint green/yellow colors. Two ways to remedy this is to either put a white piece of paper behind the tube when reading results, or to just line the tube up over whatever test you’re doing and see which color is closest that way.The last issue is that the tubes/caps are a little annoying to dry. I don’t mind too much but I could see how some people might. I find the easiest way to dry it is to take a papertowel and twist it into a point and just shove it in the tube and turn it in a circle to dry it all. Then I just put it back in the container without the top on so it can air dry in case there’s any leftover moisture.Other than those concerns I do think it’s a pretty good product. I guess the last thing to say is that obviously the tubes are glass so be careful with them, I’d recommend only putting the tubes in their spots bottom down so you don’t accidentally break the fragile top part.
10 people found this helpful
Holly –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Great
Works exactly as expected easy and fast to use
KodeeKodee –
4.0 out of 5 stars
great way for first time aquarists to monitor and establish the nitrogen cycle – nitrate test sucks
i’m a first time aquarist – and after tons and tons of research i successfully cycled my very first aquarium – and I did it in a Fluval Spec V using Seachem Stability, and this API Freshwater test kit.i was really excited to monitor my first ever nitrogen cycle in my first ever aquarium. so i tested twice a day, sometimes three times a day in the beginning. read the directions fully the first few times – you will eventually know them by heart. if you’ve never used a test kit and are starting your very first aquarium you definitely need this. plus it helps watch the parameters go up and then down – to see how the cycle process works – i researched the hell out of it and this solidified my understanding.once the parameters approach the high range of the color chart it can be difficult to decide which corresponding color on the chart best matches the results of the test. if you start at the beginning and watch the levels go up and then come down you will become better at it. for the first stages of the cycle i found it difficult to properly read the results. but once the levels started to drop, and the cycle entered the final stages, it was much easier to watch ammonia go from green down to light yellow…or the nitrite go from bright/maroonish purple to bluish purple to light blue…nitrite is especially difficult because 2.0ppm and 5ppm nitrite is almost identical on the chart…it’s just the more maroon the shade of purple is the higher the nitrite in the sample. you will learn and understand.i have found it best to place the samples in from of my LED illuminated aquarium and stand from afar to better gauge the results. you can see the color better. or viewing a photo of the results taking with my iPhone on flash (in review) helped me see the true color. holding them up outside works well. or in front of a window with a lot of natural night. standing under the ceiling light holding the tube in front of the white part on the chart sort of distorts the color….high nitrite reading is especially challenging to decipher. instructions say to wait 5 minutes to read the results of the test…do check at the 5 minute mark because i have noticed the results darkening even more 15, 30+ minutes after testing…the other thing that drives me crazy about this test is the Nitrate test. the instructions say to vigorously shake Nitrate test bottle #2 for 30 seconds….i found that it was more like 60 seconds while banging it on the edge of a counter…you truly have to shake the hell out of the Nitrate #2 test solution. there are solidified/crystallized particulates suspended in nitrate #2 solution..when you’re adding #2 to your test tube sample, look closely at the drops and you will see. they sparkle. then you have to vigorously shake the test tube for 60 seconds, then wait 5 minutes for the results. it’s a lot. at first i really enjoyed testing my parameters….it excited me. now i loathe testing for Nitrate…in some freshwater aquarium forums i’m in this is a common complaint. i’ve read multiple posts about new API test kit users not getting a positive result for Nitrate even though they were sure – the problem was they were not shaking the solution enough….and since they had performed multiple tests with no positive results….that bottle of nitrate #2 was all out of proportion, rendering it defective…if you don’t shake the hell out of it and evenly distribute the solid matter in the bottle – every time – then you will always get an inaccurate reading. and need to purchase a completely new bottle. it is sold separate from the kit. however, i will be purchasing the Seachem nitrate test to try.the only time you will have high levels of ammonia and nitrite is during cycling, when adding more livestock thus increasing the bioload; the beneficial bacteria in your filter will have to compensate by growing more to eat it all up. or if you crash your tank; such as washing the filter media in tap water. i’ll continue to test all parameters at the end of the week before a water change…but i know some experienced aquarists rarely check for ammonia and nitrite. i will.i will purchase API ammonia and nitrite tests separately from now on. and try a go with the Seachem nitrate test.
4 people found this helpful
Cassi –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Just what I wanted!
Works great! Exactly what I wanted!
Sweet Raven –
5.0 out of 5 stars
You need this
If you have tanks you need this. Save money and buy it here.
Dionisio Fowler –
4.0 out of 5 stars
The unbeatable classic test kit
If you’re serious about fishkeeping, you’ll need a test kit at some point. And when I say “a test kit” I really mean “you’ll need this”. At risk of sounding like I’ve been paid off by API, this test kit is really just the best option to my knowledge. It comes with five testing solutions, easy-to-understand instructions, and the whole process makes you feel like a kid again. What’s more, at $35, this is far more economical than any other liquid test kit, especially compared to the option of buying individual bottles.However, I’m rating this testing kit four stars simply because it does have a few minor inconveniences that I think API could really do to fix. If you’re on the fence about buying this, don’t bother thinking too hard. Just buy it, it’s the best option. The following complaints are included with the hope that API can fix them in the future, not to dissuade any newbie fishkeepers.1. Since there are five testing solutions, there should really be five beakers, not four.2. The ammonia tests are a bit hard to read. Since the gradient color is yellow to green, the individual levels tend to blur together. Considering the importance of accurate ammonia readings, this is a bit of a glaring oversight.That said, this is still a great testing kit, and a must-have for any freshwater aquarium.
16 people found this helpful
Amazon Customer –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Accuracy Matters
I bought these because I was tiring of taking samples to my fish store for testing. I was able to get my aquarium balance fairly quickly and haven’t lost a fish since using this test kit. I wish there was more information on specific steps or products to use to correct different issues, but it’s not that difficult to research.
One person found this helpful
Samantha Mays –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Got what I ordered
Got a standard API test kit, Nothing internal seemed to missing, nothing broken or leaking. Your basic baseline product that you just order from amazon, If you have a tank though this is a must need.
ChanelLock –
4.0 out of 5 stars
Broken glass tube upon arrival
The only reason for 4 stars, is that upon opening, 1 of the glass vials was already broken. Easy to test and great instructions
Jordan S. –
5.0 out of 5 stars
As Advertised
Very useful and a necessity for all fishkeepers.
Jamel Rose –
4.0 out of 5 stars
Great Product
The product was a great buy. It was accurate and easy to use with clear instructions. The only issue I had was with the shipping, some of my solution spilled and cause a mess on the book.
MongooseMongoose –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Excellent all in one.
Very easy to use with a little patience. I am at the end of a new tank cycle where the nitrite to nitrate ratios start to shift. My advice: Scoop up some water in a small CLEAN measuring cup that has a spout (found in most cooking sections of big box stores) from your aquarium. Fill 1 tube until the bottom of the bubble is at the 5ml line. It helps to have an empty dropper to suck up aquarium water that’s used to top off the test tube. That’s 9th grade chemistry 101. Perform one test at a time. I only used one tube. Read the directions of each section all the way through then go back as you perform the test. Each bottle has the drop # right on it. Another thing I did for accuracy is squeeze each bottle slightly before inverting it over the tube. As I turned it over I let it draw a little air in so it wouldn’t drip all over. Colors are best read under a 5000k light or natural sunlight.
16 people found this helpful
sam w. –
3.0 out of 5 stars
This kit is called “master” kit for a reason
It’s accurate but expensive. 2 of the 4 tests tubes have broken and I’d say because they are cheap not because I man handled them. Both broke either pulling them out of the kit or putting them back in the kit. It’d cost next to nothing to include quality glass. Each test is concluded uniquely so another words each mineral testing is obtained differently. A month in and I’ve still got to read the instructions and I’ve got 5 tanks. Shake, don’t shake, wait 5 minutes then read, wait EXACTLY 5 minutes then read, read immediately, 5 drops for this one, 8 drops for that one, ten drops each from two bottles for this one. Shake testing solution for 1 minute for this one. I mean the test strips are obviously much much easier, much more convenient, but from what I’ve read not as accurate. What parameters on the test results or we actually looking at here between the two? I’m going to find out for myself. Understandably measuring things the naked eye can’t even see in crystal clear water is above my pay grade. So I mean for this to be more informative, then critical and bashing of the product. I did a some research prior to purchase and this information I overlooked, missed, or simply wasn’t out their. Now it is
2 people found this helpful
Jaden stoutt –
5.0 out of 5 stars
This product was perfect
This test kit as brought me so in my aquarium Journey. it has detailed instructions telling how to use it what everything means and so much more. I would HIGHLY recommend buying the test kit!
One person found this helpful
brooklyn y.brooklyn y. –
3.0 out of 5 stars
great test kit !
this aquarium test kit will last you forever , & has everything you need so you don’t need to buy anything else for figuring out water parameters . the bottles were DEFENITELY a pain though , & SO fragile . my first time buying this , i didn’t know how to open the bottle so i tried twisting it & it broke . another time , it fell on the ground ( less then a foot ) & another bottle broke . now i only have two .. otherwise , this product is great & not only provides all listed but a booklet explaining ammonia , nitrites , nitrates , & high range ph / ph , along with the colors guide obviously . pricey , but worth it .
matt1234 –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Must have kit for monitoring fish tank
Got this kit for monitoring my goldfish tank. Very easy to use with clear instructions. Overall very satisfied and think this is a very suitable test kit to start with.This kit tests for 2 things. (1) PH levels and (2) Ammonia, Nitrite, and Nitrate levels (i.e. the Nitrogen Cycle). The Nitrogen cycle as related to a fish tank is as follows…Your fish gives off waste products, which Ammonia is a major component. When Ammonia levels in the tank go to high the fish can get burns, sick and can die. At some point your tank should develop bacteria that convert the Ammonia to Nitrite (this bacteria can live in the gravel and the filter. Also this bacteria is killed by tap water that has chlorine present so this is why you don’t wash gravel with tap water. Also this is why you should not change all filter elements at once as you may be eliminating too much of your bacteria colonies). Once the bacteria that do this develop a large enough colony your ammonia levels should go to zero. Before the colony of bacteria is developed your tests for Ammonia should show some level present. You want to make sure that the level does not go to high. To reduce Ammonia levels you can either do water changes, use a filter that removes Ammonia or there are additives that can be added to reduce the levels as well.The next step is the bacteria converts the Ammonia to Nitrite. Nitrite levels if they go too high are bad for fish. Initially Nitrite levels will tend high (similar solution for excessive Ammonia levels will work for Nitrite as well). Eventually a colony of bacteria will develop that convert Nitrite to Nitrate. Once the colony reaches maturity your Nitrite levels should come up as zero on your tests.The final step (well not final if you use plants, which is more complicated) is as mentioned above the Nitrite being converted to Nitrate. When the bacteria colonies are fully removing all the Ammonia and Nitrite the tank is called cycled. At this point the major concern is that Nitrate levels should not go too high. The fortunate thing is that fish can tolerate relatively high levels of Nitrate as compared to Ammonia or Nitrite. I would think most cases where fish are not faring well, probably the Ammonia or Nitrite levels are high and the Nitrate is fine. In any case you will need to test for Nitrate probably no more frequently than every few weeks to few months (depends on your tanks size and number of fish) to make sure the levels are not getting to high. The solution for high levels is the same as for Ammonia or Nitrite, namely water changes, filtering, and additives (I have stayed away from additives but they are an option).This kit gives you everything you need to test for this critical cycle and is probably all you need for most fish tanks to help you keep your fish healthy for a long time.
13 people found this helpful
Amazon Customer –
5.0 out of 5 stars
API Freshwater Master Test Kit
You won’t find a more accurate test kit than this one. API master test kits really are more accurate than any other liquid test kit and certainly more accurate than strips. Just follow the directions and you’ll be set!
RYW –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Reliable. Accurate. Better than strips.
I had algae problems in my pond and had first bought the easy to use test strips to see if the water was out of balance in the nitrogen cycle. The strips showed acceptable levels of everything, which I knew could not be correct since the algae was increasing day by day. So I bought this kit, and it yields different results based on which I addressed the problems and brought the algae problem under control. I think the test strips are okay if you are looking for a quick and easy way to see if the water chemistry is way out of whack. But if you are fine tuning the strips do not not work well. The test kit, though involving more work and time, is the way to go.
One person found this helpful
Arsee –
4.0 out of 5 stars
It definitely gives very different results than the strips.
***As always, I bought this with my own, hard-earned money and paid the asking price plus tax. Furthermore, I don’t have any kind of affiliation with anybody that might have made a single penny by my having done so, nor anybody affiliated with a competing product.*** …Just sayin’.I don’t know if this liquid test kit is more accurate than strips, but it definitely gives very different results. Consider nitrates for example, which are the the primary reason for doing water changes on well established tanks. I stay on top of water changes and my strips rarely, if ever, showed a nitrate problem, but this liquid kit has never shown a safe level of nitrates. As a matter of fact, since I got it I am being worked to death doing 50% water changes almost constantly trying to keep my fish alive – which were already over 5 years old and making babies constantly when I decided to try the liquid kit on the advice of folks on the fish forum I recently joined.Assuming the aquarium community are correct and this liquid kit is more accurate than strips, I still subtracted a star simply because of how complicated it is compared to strips. To check nitrates, nitrites, GH, KH and PH with a 5 in 1 strip, you simply dunk it in the aquarium, wait 30 seconds, and compare everything to the color chart.Just to check nitrates with this liquid kit you must take a test vial (which you have already cleaned) and fill it to the mark with aquarium water. Then remove the bottle cap of Nitrate Test Solution #1, put 10 drops into the test vial and replace the bottle cap. Then put the cap on the test vial and invert it several times. Then vigorously shake Nitrate Test Solution #2 for at least 30 seconds (it says this is very important). Then remove the caps of the bottle and test vial and put 10 drops of the freshly shaken Nitrate Test Solution #2 into the test vial. Then replace the caps of the bottle and test vial. Then vigorously shake the test vial for 1 minute (again, this is very important according to the instructions). Then wait 5 minutes and compare the test vial to the included color chart in a well lit area… I kid you not. In other words, even if you are lightening fast, it is going to take you about 7 minutes and a slight case of tennis elbow just to check your nitrates.I really haven’t done much else with the kit so far because with all the water changes I’ve been compelled to do in the last couple of weeks the chances of some other serious problem should be extremely low, but I pray all other tests aren’t as complicated and time consuming as the all important nitrate one. Like I said, my tanks are well established and I have perfected over the last 40 years a system for doing water changes without affecting tank parameters other than nitrates.Okay, so since I do assume this kit is more accurate and I want my fish to live in the best possible conditions, I am going to endorse it and keep changing water all the time and just accept that my tanks might be a tiny bit “over-bio-loaded” ( i’m not completely sure that is a real word). I should also add that this kit is several times more economical to use than strips too, which means you do get something besides just accuracy for all the extra time and labor.Update: I did discover that the other tests in the liquid kit aren’t nearly as complicated as the one for nitrates. As best I can tell, the others only require 3 to 5 drops of only one liquid without a bunch of shaking. Unfortunately nitrates still might be the most important test, at least for me it is. I wish there were a simpler accurate test for it.
9 people found this helpful
Amazon Customer –
4.0 out of 5 stars
Solid product
It’s a solid product I use it every week. Although the ammonia test can be misleading on its results. It will say there is minute amounts of ammonia present when there is none.
RW80RW80 –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Best kit for the money
Kit works exactly as described to help you monitor aquarium.
Robert Charles Carnall –
4.0 out of 5 stars
Fantastic Backup Solution to Reef Chemistry
I purchase this kit as a backup to my normal testing for my 180g reef aquarium.The Good: The API tests are simple, the directions are good, and the diverse group of tests makes it a great value. Colors are easy to readThe Average:The test ranges are not precise. Nitrate and Phosphate tests give you a general range, but if you are looking for precision this is not the kit for you.My Recommendation: I normally use a mix of Hanna (the best Phosphate & Nitrate tester hands down) & Red Sea test kits as they are more precise. But no checker is ever 100% accurate all the time. Anytime I get a result that is out of normal range, I utilize this API Kit to verify the accuracy of the other tester. In these instances, I am not looking for precision, I am looking for validation that my other test was accurate/inaccurate. Could you use this as your sole Reef Keeping needs? Probably. But, I would recommend having a separate test kit no matter what when you get a reading that seems questionable to validate it.
7 people found this helpful
mariamaria –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Works
The media could not be loaded.
This test is accurate unlike the strips. They can give false readings and that’s not good for your fish. It comes with 4 test tubes not 5 when they’re is 5 tests. Some of the expiration dates are off some expire sooner and later then others. So I’ll probably have to buy a whole new kit which sucks.whoever packs or labels these need to do a better job. Other then that I highly recommend it!
Margo M. –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Great kit!
A must have for all aquarium owners
Hannah FrandsenHannah Frandsen –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Felt like a chemist
I bought these for my new 5 gallon tank and rescued betta. I’m grateful I bought this because as you can see I need to make some adjustments to the water parameters. Hopefully with healthy water and some medication I can save this little guy from some fin rot.
3 people found this helpful
Seth –
4.0 out of 5 stars
More accurate than test strips, but shouldn’t have to but 3 test kits.
The tests are a bit tedious and time consuming, but worth it for the added accuracy over test strips. The nitrate test requires shaking the bottle for 30 seconds, shaking the vial for 60 and waiting 5 min and some of the other tests require a 5 min wait, so it takes some patience. Some of the color gradients are hard to distinguish, however it’s better than test trips for the most part. One cool feature is the test vial caps have ribs inside so that when attached to the opposite end of the vials, it allows for drying of both the caps and tubes when inverted and placed back in the holder. It would be nice if there were a separate test tube holder aside from the box though. One thing I would strongly recommend is dedicating a separate tube to the ammonia and pH tests and do them separately. The reason being is that the ammonia test has bleach in it and any cross contamination will throw off your pH test. It takes a few extra rinses to get the bleach smell out as well. I recommend using deionized water for this if you have it.The negative:I started off with the Freshwater master test kit and immediately liked it over any test strips I’ve used, which are hard to read. Then later got the saltwater test kit as my hobby progressed. I was dumbfounded to find that that saltwater kit didn’t provide me with anything that I didn’t already have from the freshwater kit except for a different test card. The chemicals are all the same between the two kits, except for the saltwater kit lacking a low range pH test. The only thing different is a slight variation in the color gradients on the card. This is an unethical marketing practice, hence the one star deduction from an otherwise 5 star review. I now have way more nitrite and ammonia test solution than I will need in a lifetime. As for the reef test kit. It also has overlap with the saltwater kit in that they both have the nitrate test. However the reef kit is lacking the pH, nitrite and ammonia tests. I guess they are assuming you either already have the saltwater kit, or you have no animals in your reef tank and don’t need to worry about cycling. Also, the saltwater test kit does not have the calcium and hardness tests that the reef kit has, so you really need both test kits for most marine setups. Maybe you could get away with just the reef kit of you have a nano reef tank with no inverts or fish to produce ammonia, but I would think that corals need a specific pH range, which tells me that the reef kit is likely not meant to be a stand alone kit, but a supplemental kit to the saltwater kit. However they compliment each-other well unlike the freshwater kit, because the only overlap is the nitrate test, which is used the most. If I had to do it over, I would skip the saltwater kit and just acquire the test card, then just purchase the freshwater and reef kit, since those two kits give you all the tests you need for any setup minus the saltwater reference card.
11 people found this helpful
Emma Roberts –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Works Great!
Use this for my cichlid tank and works great! easy to read and use!
NateRosa –
5.0 out of 5 stars
If you own fish
You need this. Period. Super accurate.
Vicki Apple –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Perfect Test Kit
The kit came in perfect shape. The instructions are very easy to read.
Michael –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Great product! Could have a couple small changes.
Would much rather see more ammonia testing solution as opposed to it including both the high and low range ph testing solution. There are plenty of accurate pH testing devices that make way more sense than this. Swap them out for more bottles of ammonia or nitrate solutions would be so much better!!!Additionally, really wish it came with test tubes. Yes you can buy replacements, but would it be detrimental if the kit came with 8 or even just 6? You are doing at least 3 or 4 tests per tank, would be nice if you could get through at least two rounds of tests at the same time. Considering it is a master test kit and all.
4 people found this helpful
junjunjunjun –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Reconstitute the drop test to single doses.
Bought this master kit because I was suspicious with the results I’m getting with the 6-1 test strips.To save on each measurement drops , you don’t necessarily need 5drops at each test/ tube as directed. Instead re-dilute the concentrations. For example, 0.75ml water + 1 drop ammonia #1 and 2, and 1.25ml water + 1 drop nitrite etc…I used a 2ml plastic pipet from michaels. The pipet has markings every 0.25ml increments but you can trace it with a sharpie to see your levels better. Hope that helps you conserve the test kit longer.
11 people found this helpful
Joaquin M. –
5.0 out of 5 stars
A must have
The assistant for your aquarium
Thomas –
4.0 out of 5 stars
It works but not so easy to use.
I love Chemistry so I enjoy using test tubes and creating chemical reactions. However, this kit could be made better. There is not a good place to stand up the test tubes during use. Would love if the kit came with a test tube stand. Maybe a foldable one that can be removed from the container. Or at least, adding short holders for the test tubes on the lid. Also, once you’re ready to read the results. It is sometimes difficult to match your color or shade to the ones on the chart. The pH is one where I seem to have difficulty with. Between 6.6, 6.8 and 7.0. From what I can tell though the kit does work. Beware using and old kit. I have one from 20 years ago, and I tried matching the results with the new kit. The old one is way off! Not sure when they expire but be mindful.
2 people found this helpful
Danielle Moore –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Accurate
Accurate readings. Tests must be run according to instructions!
Invisible Hands LLC –
4.0 out of 5 stars
Qqq
Not worth the money
Claudia –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Life saver!!!
If you love fish, then you MUST buy this!!! It is definately a life saver! let’s just say that I was blind before using this wonderfull kit. I wrongly assumed that because the water was crystal clear, it was not deadly toxic.. yeah right.. now, I test once a week (it is a bit difficult to adapt to all the steps at first, but you will get the hang of it) and as soon as I notice the levels getting out of control, I use the api solutions to keep them “in line”. You can buy them separately, to control ph, amonia, nitrite and nitrate. You wont regret it, and your fish will THANK YOU:)
2 people found this helpful
Casey –
4.0 out of 5 stars
PH reading is off
Overall great kit. Biggest issue is the PH test solution only show 7.6 despite water changes and a PH neutralizer.
One person found this helpful
Alanna –
5.0 out of 5 stars
The best
I’m new to the aquarium life, and this kit is a lifesaver. Seriously. I didn’t realize the intricacies involved in maintaining an aquarium until recently and this kit shed a lot of light on where things need to be.My betta is thriving thanks to this kit and some tips I’ve gotten along the way. There’s enough tubes for each test (high PH test vs regular PH test is dependent on the creatures you have).The kit is really straightforward with how to use it and how to read the results. A must-have for fish parents! Worth every penny
3 people found this helpful