Our Classic Bonded Filter pads have an open fiber network which traps small to large particles; our Premium Filter Pads have a layer to trap small and large particles as well as a dense bottom layer which traps fine particles. Classic pads keep most aquarium water clear and last much longer between rinses and replacements. Premium pads will keep your water crystal clear of free floating particles but since it traps more debris from the aquarium water, it may need to be rinsed and changed more often. For this reason, many aquarists choose the Premium True Dual Density Filter Pad.