I have at least 1 of all the most common HOB's (by brand). I fail to see any superiority of one over the other. Personally, I would go with one brand only but hey, free is FREE! and I never say no if it's free.
I have heard or read about all the failures with different brands and I have not had to endure any of them. I have a couple of filters that are more than 10 years old and still work. The more expensive HOB's do as well as the economical ones, but I do find a serious flaw with the marketing numbers. I select filters based upon how many gph it flows not what the manufacturer claims it is good for.
For flexibility I like AquaClear or H.O.T. magnums.
I have heard or read about all the failures with different brands and I have not had to endure any of them. I have a couple of filters that are more than 10 years old and still work. The more expensive HOB's do as well as the economical ones, but I do find a serious flaw with the marketing numbers. I select filters based upon how many gph it flows not what the manufacturer claims it is good for.
For flexibility I like AquaClear or H.O.T. magnums.
