Eheim vs. Mag-Drive Pumps

[LoneStar]

In one corner EHEIM 1262


In the opposite corner Mag Drive 9.5


I am going to use a submersible on my new tank and am looking for the pros and cons for both these pumps (in addition to their smaller/bigger brothers).

I have used both brands in the past and from what I have experienced the EHEIM pumps run alot quieter and cooler. Both use roughly the same wattage. The Mag has a higher head height but that does not concern me.

The pump will be used as a return pump for my system with roughly 5ft of head height, straight up.

So I am leaning towards EHEIM...what do YOU think?

[Richard]

The eheim is a MUCH better pump than the magdrive IMO. I use an eheim for mixing my saltwater for water changes. On one occasion I left the pump plugged in overnight out of the water. Didn't hurt it a bit.

[JeffCo]

Another one for eheim

[cpreefguy]

Ive always used mag pumps, but it seems like Eheim is a superior choice

[Enigma13]

If you only have 5 ft. of head the Eheim is the best option. I have used both a 1260 and a 1262 in my tank and both have been extra quiet and reliable. The 1264 should become available soon and will provide 1200 g.p.h. of flow, if you are looking for more than the 900 that the 1262 provides.

[caferacermike]

I adore Eheim and currently have about 20 Eheim products running in my house. My 1262 return pumps are flawless. I haven't cleaned either in over a year and they just keep running. Also Eheims are generally half the wattage of Mags for the same GPH. But do keep in mind that Eheim is not generous at all with their GPH ratings. If they claim 700GPH at 5 foot don't be surprised if it's actually 800. Compared to other brands ratings it seems that Eheim plays it way to safe.

[Ed]

Eheim all the way. FAR superior to Mag Drive.

[jc]

What Eheim is comparable to a mag7 or mag9? I used the calculators and cant seem to find the right one.

[LoneStar]

Thanks everyone! Your twisting my arm to get a EHEIM haha I was leaning that way anyway and I am definatly going to get one now.

I have used mag 7s for returns in the past, and thought they were just OK. They were noisy and did make my sump run hotter. The only EHEIM I have used was on a calcium reactor. It was a smaller model but even then, it was SOOOO silent and did not feel hot at all. I'm thinking its worth the extra cash to go for EHEIM.

What Eheim is comparable to a mag7 or mag9? I used the calculators and cant seem to find the right one.

Well according to MarineDepot.com, this is what I have found:

Eheim 1262
Pump Output: 900 gph
Delivery Head: 11`6"
Power Consumption: 80 W (115V)
Hose Connection (Suction Side): 1"
Hose Connection (Pressure Side): 3/4"
Dimensions: 8.6" x 4.6" x 6.3"
Weight: 5.7 lbs

Mag-Drive 9.5
Flow Rate: 950 GPH maximum flow with a 14` shut-off
Power Consumption: 93 Watts
Pump Size (L x W x H): 5.0" x 3.0" x 5.5"
Outlet Size / Inlet Size: 3/4" MPT / 3/4" FPT
10` grounded power cord
3 year manufacturer`s Limited Warranty

Now the wattage was a little less for the Eheim, although from what I heard from people it was suppose to be a greater difference.