Externals would be the best choice I think, more effective, less maintanence and gives more room in the tank.
Ther best external filters to go with would be an eheim I hear there second to none. If your on a budget I would suggest an allpondsolutions external great price, quite and effective also options to have a UV light in it
One who cannot love her smallest creations, cannot claim to stand before Nature - Takashi Amano