120 gallon tall vs 120 standard

[ReeferReefer]

So I've been looking to upgrade my 90 gallon AIO for a while now. I was thinking of going with a standard 120 (48x24x24) since it would fit into the space of my current 90. Well I just inspected the used 120 I have lined up and it's actually has the dimensions of 60x18x24. I think they call it a 120 tall?

Is this a better size for the volume? It would allow me to have bigger fish because of the length but is the take wide enough for a good scape? I hate how narrow my current tank is. If a longer tank is really going to be a big advantage, I can make the space.

I would need to buy new lights for the longer tank as well which adds to the total cost.

I am hoping that this is my forever tank, so what tank would you go with? A 120 standard or 120 tall?

 

[ReeferReefer]

I am still in the planning stages for my next build so other similar tank sizes are welcome. I just want to make sure I won't regret the tank choice.

 

[ca1ore]

I have had both. 120xH is currently serving as my refugium. Standard 120 would be my choice, hands down, for a reef. Easier to light and the extra 6’ depth is invaluable. The only reason I use the XH as my refugium is for tall gorgonians.

 

[ReeferReefer]

I have had both. 120xH is currently serving as my refugium. Standard 120 would be my choice, hands down, for a reef. Easier to light and the extra 6’ depth is invaluable. The only reason I use the XH as my refugium is for tall gorgonians.

Thanks for the reply. I was thinking that a 5 foot tank might let me keep tangs compared to a 4 foot tank but it does seem a bit narrow.

 

[Brian Kennedy]

I just ordered a 60x18 120g. LFS said the extra length would be better for my powder brown. I do think the 18" front to back is going to be a challenge to scape though.

 

[ca1ore]

Thanks for the reply. I was thinking that a 5 foot tank might let me keep tangs compared to a 4 foot tank but it does seem a bit narrow.

To me, even 5’ is too constraining for most acanthurus, Naso and some zebrasoma tangs.

 

[reefwiser]

Never get a high tank way too hard to light properly for corals.

 

[Elegance Coral]

The standard 120, 48x24x24, is one of the best shaped mass production tanks available IMHO. They take up the same wall space as a standard 55, with more than double the volume. The extra width, front to back, opens up many more options for aquascaping. Lots of room underneath for filtration. A 40 breeder sump fits perfect with room left for other equipment. Many options for 4' lights, but very few 5' lights. It's large enough to be stable, without breaking the bank on lighting and filtration.
JMHO
Peace
EC

 

[BestMomEver]

Also... fish typically swim side to side and not up and down. The longer the better. And the longer the tank, the bigger the tangs you can keep!;Happy