Tank & Tech
API GH & KH Test Kit
API · budget

API GH & KH Test Kit

94 / 100A+4.7★ (5,927 reviews)

$14.99

The kit planted-tank and shrimp keepers actually need — a liquid titration for general and carbonate hardness, the parameters strips only guess at.

Pros

  • Titration drop-count gives a hard number for GH and KH instead of a guessed colour
  • Hundreds of tests per bottle, with reagent refills available for a low cost per test
  • Granular readings that matter for shrimp, buffering and planted-tank CO2
  • Numbered vials, a clear colour chart and good instructions

Cons

  • Two tests to run — GH then KH — each by drop-counting
  • Needs a steady hand and decent light to spot the colour change

Score breakdown

Accuracy & Range
97
Cost Per Test
100
Ease of Reading
100
Owner Satisfaction
88
Value
88

Specifications

Parameters TestedGH (general hardness), KH (carbonate hardness)
Test Count~1,600 tests combined
Reagent TypeLiquid titration
Refill AvailableYes
Shelf Life~3 years
Chart TypeColour reference
Vial Count2 glass tubes
InstructionsBooklet

Alternatives

API Freshwater Master Test Kit

$36.26 · 89 / 100A

The accuracy reference for freshwater: a liquid reagent kit that reads far more granular than strips and covers the full ammonia nitrite nitrate cycle plus high- and low-range pH.

API 5-in-1 Test Strips (100-count)

$24.98 · 85 / 100A−

The fast everyday check — five parameters in about a minute. Less granular than liquid, but the most-reviewed strips in the hobby.

Tetra EasyStrips 6-in-1 Test Strips (25-count)

$14.97 · 87 / 100A

The cheapest way to eyeball six parameters — a fine budget strip for routine checks, not for diagnosing a crisis.

← Back to the full ranking

Some links are affiliate links: if you buy through them we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. It never changes our rankings. Full disclosure.