50 gallon fish tank size and measurements
How big is a 50 gallon tank? It is about 3.0 feet long (36 in), 18 inches from front to back and 19 inches tall, so it needs a stand or space at least 36 x 18 inches.
- Outside dimensions
- 36 x 18 x 19 in91.4 x 45.7 x 48.3 cm
- Volume
- 50 US gal189 L, 42 UK gal
- Footprint
- 4.5 sq ft648 sq in
- Water weight
- 417 lb189 kg
Measured from the outside, these dimensions hold about 53.3 US gallons. Real water volume is lower because of glass thickness, substrate, decor and the gap below the rim. Check the real figure with the aquarium volume calculator.
How much does a 50 gallon tank weigh?
A 50 gallon tank weighs about 492 lb of water and gravel, plus the glass, which varies by brand. Use a stand rated for the full weight, on a level floor. The fish tank weight guide compares every size.
How much gravel or sand for a 50 gallon tank?
| Bed depth | Gravel | Sand | Aquasoil |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 in (2.5 cm) | 38 lb | 36 lb | 11 L |
| 2 in (5.1 cm) | 75 lb | 71 lb | 21 L |
| 3 in (7.6 cm) | 112 lb | 107 lb | 32 L |
Based on a 36 x 18 in floor and typical bulk densities.
Different depth? Use the aquarium substrate calculator.
Heater and filter size for a 50 gallon tank
A common rule is 3–5 watts per gallon, so a 50 gallon tank needs about 150–250 W: one 200 W heater suits most rooms. Use the higher end in cold rooms.
For filtration, aim to turn the water over 4–6 times an hour: a filter rated around 200–300 gallons per hour.
Fish that suit a 50 gallon tank
- Angelfish
- Gouramis
- Large tetra schools
- Corydoras and plecos suited to the size
Starting ideas only. Check each species' adult size, temperament and water needs before buying.
Compare nearby sizes
- Next smaller: 40 gallon breeder, 36 x 18 x 16 in
- Next larger: 55 gallon, 48 x 13 x 21 in
See every size in the aquarium size chart.
Frequently asked questions
What are the dimensions of a 50 gallon tank?
A standard 50 gallon aquarium measures about 36 x 18 x 19 inches (91.4 x 45.7 x 48.3 cm), length x width x height. Brands vary by a fraction of an inch.
How long is a 50 gallon tank?
About 36 inches (91.4 cm), or 3.0 feet.
How big is a 50 gallon tank?
It is about 3.0 feet long, 18 inches deep and 19 inches tall, and takes up 4.5 square feet of floor.
How much does a 50 gallon tank weigh when full?
About 492 lb of water and gravel, plus the glass, which varies by brand.
How much gravel do I need for a 50 gallon tank?
For a 2 inch bed, about 75 lb of gravel or 71 lb of sand.
What size heater does a 50 gallon tank need?
About 150–250 watts in total, so one 200 W heater suits most rooms.
Last updated .