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Dophin CF688 Series Canister Filter

Dophin · Canister

Dophin CF688 Series Canister Filter

A round blue canister range from 800 to 1400 L/h, each size available with or without a built-in UV lamp (the UV versions add a UV suffix). The UV sits inside the canister behind a safety switch.

Updated

800–1,400 L/h4 models

Will it suit my tank?

litres

Best for

A 60 to 140 litre tank that suffers green water now and then, where a UV option in the same box saves buying a separate unit.

Worth knowing

UV only kills free-floating algae and microbes, not algae on leaves, and running it constantly can break down some chelated trace elements, so many planted-tank keepers only switch it on when needed.

What stands out

  • Four sizes, 800 to 1400 L/h
  • Optional internal UV lamp of 5 to 9 W
  • Primer handle for easy start-up
  • Spray bar, lily-style inlet/outlet pipes and directional spout included

Models and specs

ModelFlowTank sizePowerDimensions (L × W × H)Power with UVMedia trays
CF688800 L/hup to 80 L10 W19 × 19 × 29 cm20 W1
CF8881,000 L/hup to 100 L10 W19 × 19 × 41 cm21.5 W3
CF12881,200 L/hup to 110 L13.2 W23 × 23 × 41 cm25.5 W2
CF14881,400 L/hup to 140 L17 W23 × 23 × 48.5 cm29.3 W3
Brand
Dophin
UV
Optional; UV models are CF688UV, CF888UV, CF1288UV, CF1488UV (uvW applies to these)
Media supplied
Coarse sponge and filter wool

Figures from the maker's published specifications. Makers revise products, so check the current figures before buying. Photos supplied by the brand or its distributor.

Frequently asked questions

Quick answers about the Dophin CF688 Series Canister Filter, drawn from its specs.

What size tank is the Dophin CF688 Series Canister Filter good for?

Using the 5 to 12 times turnover rule for planted tanks: CF688 (800 L/h, suits roughly 67–160 L); CF888 (1,000 L/h, suits roughly 83–200 L); CF1288 (1,200 L/h, suits roughly 100–240 L); CF1488 (1,400 L/h, suits roughly 117–280 L). The maker rates the range for tanks up to 140 L. Real flow with media and hoses is lower than the rated figure, so pick the bigger model if you are between sizes.

Who is the Dophin CF688 Series Canister Filter best for?

A 60 to 140 litre tank that suffers green water now and then, where a UV option in the same box saves buying a separate unit.

Is there anything to watch out for with the Dophin CF688 Series Canister Filter?

UV only kills free-floating algae and microbes, not algae on leaves, and running it constantly can break down some chelated trace elements, so many planted-tank keepers only switch it on when needed.

What are the alternatives to the Dophin CF688 Series Canister Filter?

Other filters worth comparing: Boyu DGN-410 / 460 / 520 Canister Filter, Boyu DGN-80 / 120 UVC Canister Filter, Boyu EF / EFU Canister Filter. Add any of them to the compare table to see the specs side by side.