Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

I'm a first-time fish parent, and this is my first filtered aquarium. So far I like it, and my betta seems to like it as well. I would first like to provide the actual measurements, since those listed in the product info are actually of the package, not the aquarium itself: 9.625 in. L x 9.625 in. W x 17.2 in. H (with base). Keep in mind the rear filter compartment is included in those measurements, and takes away about 2 inches from the actual space for your fish, plants, etc. Since I was disappointed there weren't more reviews with pictures when I was shopping, I have added as many as I thought would be helpful. And now, the pros and cons in my opinion. First, the Pros: - The contoured glass corners and solid glass cover look very nice, as does the black stand. Also, the tank is easy to clean (except in the filter space--more on that later). - Though the base is plastic, it's sturdy. It does not attach to the aquarium, but the sheer weight of the full aquarium sitting on it means it isn't going anywhere (I tried to budge it before I added my fish--it's solid). - The "portrait" orientation of the aquarium means I can put tall ornaments or plants in it, and still have plenty of room for my floating betta log at the surface. The aquarium also takes up less space where it sits since it isn't laying horizontally. - The filter motor is virtually silent, and the required filter cartridges are easy to find at virtually any pet store with fish supplies. The motor has four little suction cup feet for stability. - There is one cord notch in the back wall near the filter spout, which is helpful since the covers won't fit properly with cords sticking out of the tank. I use it for the cord to my heater (which I have moved to the filter side since I took the full-tank picture). I don't have any air stones, so I'm not sure if/how this will affect those who use "bubblers." - The light construction does flip up for easy tank access, without folding all the way back or falling forward again. The switch plug is very secure and leaves me with little worry of water getting into the connection; I still didn't want the switch hanging though, so I tacked it to my wall above the water level. Now the Cons: - The separate area at the rear for the filter is very narrow, and the horizontal supports have sharp edges; it's impossible to clean by hand back there. Advanced aquarium owners might find this space annoying. - The LED lights are very bright (as advertised), which some owners might find to be a pro. I modified my light setup a little to take the light intensity down a few notches because my betta went nuts when I had them on before. Also, the light construction is obviously plastic, though it doesn't look horrible overall. - The filter does work very well: Though I keep the motor turned down as low as possible and use the provided fan-shaped baffle, the filter still creates a strong current, which is a downside for me since I have a betta; I am currently devising my own solutions to this problem. - The glass cover leaves tiny gaps in the front corners and the length of the back wall, which may allow small, crafty critters to escape, so be aware. Also, the black plastic cover for the filter area is flimsy and it doesn't leave much room for cords. It's rather a nuisance, but it does help keep stray debris on the air from drifting into the water and slow the water evaporation. Overall, I'm pleased with this tank so far, and would recommend it to anyone looking for a simple yet classy-looking 5-gallon tank. I plan to keep it for some time.