Filter selection for 3ft community tank

I have on various tanks a built-in trickle filter, a Boyu HOB, a Dophin canister and a Cascade canister.

As said previously it's matching up that makes the difference.

The HOB is the easiest to maintain and the quietest of mine to run. It was also the least expensive.

The canisters are very reliable (10 years without any issues), but are more expensive and can sometimes be a bit noisy. They are more difficult to clean but seem to need it only rarely.

Another advantage of the canister is that with a little DIY you can add a venturi for extra aeration if you need to.