I have a planted 20 gallon tall freshwater. Double hob filters. It's been going for a long time now. Right now it's got rasboras, tetras, bristlenose dwarf pleco, guppies and a couple of snails. The plants are all real, Java fern and swordplants. This tank has been established for years and has seen generations of different species of fish, shrimp, plants and snails.
I tried a high tech tank once but it is too demanding for my work schedule and other duties. Turned into a mess so I sold it off. I'd like a reef tank when I retire.