Surface Skimmers vs Protein Skimmers?

Hey I have a surface skimmer and a canister filter but not sure if I still need a protein skimmer. What's the difference?

Thanks

 

Two different things.
A surface skimmer removes floating foods andoily floating waste.
A protein skimmer removes dissolved organics throughout the tank via diffused aeration, not just the uneaten food or oily film on the surface. One is not nearly as effective as the other.

 

The protein skimmer being the more effective one.

 

Ive heard some people can get by without one- possible for a 46 gallon tank? They're sort of expensive and I haven't found a quality cheap one yet

 

Sure, lots of people don't use a skimmer for one reason or another. You will find that having one is much easier though. Without it you will probably need to perform more frequent water changes and it would be a good idea to run carbon as it will adsorb some of the things a skimmer removes in its skimmate.

 

Thanks, anyone know of a quality one, on the less expensive side?

 

If you have a sump, this would be perfect, and is very affordable. I run one and love it.

Factory direct sale 65 Gallon Protein Skimmer SC-65 | eBay

If you need something that will hang on the tank this may be an option:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/PROTEIN-SKIMMER-AQUARIUM-FILTER-W-530GPH-POWERHEAD-PUMP-/370531025362?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item56455ec1d2

 

so I'm not all about calling a surface skimmer and a protein skimmer entirely different...

My skimmer has a surface skimmer on the intake (sig for skimmer model). In my mind, they are essentially two pieces to the same thing (I realize not all skimmers have surface skimmers attachment - just saying this isn't necessarily an either/or question).

 

Thanks for the eBay link, will get. That's going to fit a 46 gallon tank right?

 

Actually would this work?

Refugium Protein Skimmer 55G Aquarium Filter Hang On w/ Pump 14.75 x 4 x 16 | eBay

Wouldn't mind having a protein skimmer and a refugium in one.

Thanks!