Help me choose the right return pump for my 55 gal reef

[Cichlid Dad]

Your 55 Will work just fine, the issue is for 50 pounds of rock you will need has to be stacked touching the back glass causing an issue with gunk build up and flow that will be hard to clean. I ran a 65, same foot print just taller. Your choice of fish will be limited. I think you will be happier if you use hang on the back equipment for now and save the sump for when you get hooked and upgrade to a bigger tank! Trust me in a year you will be chomping at the bit for a larger drilled tank

Or save your self some money and slowly purchase a larger system. Piece by piece over time. It will take a while but you will have something to look forward to every paycheck. When you have everything then put your tank together. You will be happier in the end. Trust me I wasted at least 800.00 going the other way. Remember this hobby is about patients.