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10 Best UVB Bulb for Bearded Dragon: Essential Picks for 2025
When it comes to providing the best habitat for your bearded dragon, one crucial element is ensuring they receive the proper UVB lighting. The best UVB bulb for bearded dragon ensures that your pet can synthesize vitamin D3, which is vital for their bone health and overall well-being. In 2025, many options are available on Amazon, making it easier for reptile enthusiasts to select the right bulb for their needs. This article will review the top 10 products currently available, providing in-depth insights into their features, pros, and cons.
1. Zoo Med ReptiSun 10.0 UVB Fluorescent Lamp
Zoo Med ReptiSun 10.0 UVB Fluorescent Lamp
This bulb is a favorite among reptile owners, providing a strong UVB output that closely mimics natural sunlight. It is designed for use in a variety of terrariums and can be used over a mesh screen without sacrificing its effectiveness.
The ReptiSun 10.0 has a spectrum output that reaches wavelengths beneficial for bearded dragons, ensuring they get the necessary light for metabolizing calcium.
Zoo Med ReptiSun 10.0 UVB Fluorescent Lamp
- Perfect for all desert and basking reptiles
- 10% UVB output & 30% UVA output
- Uses a special UVB transmitting quartz glass for maximum UVB penetration
- Can be oriented either vertically or horizontally
Best for: Bearded dragons needing high UVB exposure.
Pros: Strong UVB output; fits in standard fixtures; long lifespan.
Cons: May require a separate ballast; initial cost is higher than traditional bulbs.
2. Exo Terra Repti Glo 10.0 UVB Fluorescent Tube
Exo Terra Repti Glo 10.0 UVB Fluorescent Tube
The Exo Terra Repti Glo 10.0 is another excellent option for providing sufficient UVB light to bearded dragons. Offering a high UVB output, this fluorescent tube is ideal for desert-dwelling reptiles. It produces a balanced spectrum that enhances plant colors in the terrarium, benefiting both the reptiles and their environment.
Exo Terra Repti Glo 10.0 UVB Fluorescent Tube
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Best for: Creating a visually appealing habitat.
Pros: Excellent UVB output; enhances colors; compatible with various fixtures.
Cons: Shorter life span than other UVB options; should be changed every 6-12 months.
3. ZOO MED PowerSun UV Mercury Vapor Bulb
ZOO MED PowerSun UV Mercury Vapor Bulb
The ZOO MED PowerSun combines UVB output with heat, making it a versatile option for bearded dragons. This mercury vapor bulb not only provides essential UV rays, but it also emits heat, mimicking natural sunlight. It’s suitable for larger enclosures where extra heat is needed.
ZOO MED PowerSun UV Mercury Vapor Bulb
Best for: Bearded dragons that require heat and UVB simultaneously.
Pros: Provides heat and UVB in one; long-lasting; promotes healthy metabolism.
Cons: Can get very hot; may require extra care to avoid burns.
4. Repti Zoo UVB Compact Fluorescent Bulb
Repti Zoo UVB Compact Fluorescent Bulb
This compact fluorescent bulb is designed for users looking for a more energy-efficient UVB solution. It provides adequate UVB rays while consuming less power, making it an excellent choice for those on a budget. With a base that fits standard sockets, it’s easy to install.
Repti Zoo UVB Compact Fluorescent Bulb
- Perfect for all tropical species of reptiles and amphibians
- Long-lasting, full spectrum bulbs tropical environments
- Uses a special UVB transmitting quartz glass for maximum UVB penetration
- Can be oriented either vertically or horizontally
Best for: Budget-conscious reptile owners.
Pros: Energy-efficient; affordable; easy to set up.
Cons: UVB output may not be as high as other specialized bulbs.
5. Mega Ray Mercury Vapor Bulb
Mega Ray Mercury Vapor Bulb
An exceptional choice for anyone looking to provide their bearded dragon with optimal UVB rays and heat, the Mega Ray Mercury Vapor Bulb can be used in larger enclosures. This all-in-one bulb is famous for its durability and energy efficiency.
- Self-ballasted mercury vapor bulb.
- For 10 years, it has been shown to have the longest lasting UVB production of any other mercury vapor bulbs available.
- Promotes the synthesis of Vitamin D3 and prevents metabolic bone disease.
- Produces similar amounts of UVB to natural sunlight.
Best for: Large enclosures requiring both heat and UVB.
Pros: Ideal for larger habitats; promotes natural behaviors; long-lasting.
Cons: Higher initial cost; can be heavy and bulky.
6. ReptiSun 5.0 UVB Compact Fluorescent Bulb
ReptiSun 5.0 UVB Compact Fluorescent Bulb
For those looking for a lower wattage option suitable for smaller terrariums, the ReptiSun 5.0 can be an appropriate choice. While it offers less intensity than the 10.0 version, it is ideal for species that require lower UVB exposure. This bulb also emits a good amount of light, making it a great choice for small tanks.
ReptiSun 5.0 UVB Compact Fluorescent Bulb
- Perfect for all tropical species of reptiles and amphibians
- 5% UVB output & 30% UVA output
- Uses a special UVB transmitting quartz glass for maximum UVB penetration
- Can be oriented either vertically or horizontally
- Pack of 2
Best for: Smaller habitats.
Pros: Great for low-UVB species; lasts up to 12 months.
Cons: Limited effectiveness for higher UVB needs.
7. Fluker’s Repta-Sun UVB100 Linear Fluorescent Bulb
Fluker’s Repta-Sun UVB100 Linear Fluorescent Bulb
The Fluker’s Repta-Sun UVB100 is an excellent choice for reptiles needing moderate UVB exposure. This bulb emits UVB rays across a wide spectrum, benefiting both bearded dragons and their environment. It’s especially good for terrariums with live plants.
Fluker’s Repta-Sun UVB100 Linear Fluorescent Bulb
- Incandescent Spotlight Bulbs: These 75 Watt reptile bulbs are specifically designed to provide the heat light for reptiles, aiding in the reduction of chronic illness risk
- Directs Heat and Light: The bulb directs heat and light toward a specific area for basking. It works perfectly as a snake light bulb, ensuring your reptile's core body temperature is regulated
- Infrared Light Provision: This reptile heat bulb emits infrared light that is essential for reptiles. It can be utilized as a heat bulb for reptiles, ensuring an optimal environment for your pet
- Stimulates Natural Behavior: Stimulates natural behavior in reptiles like Vitamin D production, appetite, digestion, and overall health.
- Versatile Usage: Suitable for various reptiles, from lizards to snakes.
Best for: Terrariums with live plants.
Pros: Good for moderate UVB levels; supports plant growth.
Cons: Less effective in large enclosures; may need more frequent replacement.
8. Sunblaster T5 HO 6400K Fluorescent Grow Light
Sunblaster T5 HO 6400K Fluorescent Grow Light
The Sunblaster is primarily marketed as a grow light, but its intensity and UVB output make it suitable for bearded dragons as well. Ideal for both plant and animal habitat, it enhances the brightness of the terrarium while providing essential UVB rays. This bulb is favored for those aiming to create a lush environment.
Sunblaster T5 HO 6400K Fluorescent Grow Light
- REFLECTOR: This 4 Foot NanoTech High Output grow light lamp and reflector produce more light, spreads it wider across the plant canopy, and deeper into the plant foliage, without consuming any additional power
- FEATURES: The NanoTech T5 reflector captures 99.9% of previously lost light while increasing lumen availability up to 300%, with an average increase of available light of 48%; Fixtures can be placed 6 - 8 inches above the plant canopy maximizing photosynthetic response and growth
- YEARS OF USE: The most T5HO lighting combo provides the ideal spectrum for seed, cuttings, and plant growth; The reflector extends lamp and ballast life by reducing heat and provides up to 48% additional high-quality light.
- DAISY CHAIN: You can link up to 8 units from a single power cord and the self-ballasted design with no adaptors required; Full spectrum light provides the highest quality grow lighting available for a wide variety of indoor home garden uses
- KIT INFO: Includes a power cord, jumper plug, and hanging and flat surface mounting clips; Rated for 10,000 hours, 54 Watts, 120 Volts, 3730 Lumens, and a color temperature of 6400K; Dimensions (L x W x H): 49.5 x 3.5 x 2 inches; Manufacturer warranty: 1-year warranty
Best for: Multi-purpose terrariums.
Pros: Versatile; supports both plants and reptiles; energy-efficient.
Cons: Requires an appropriate fixture; higher cost.
9. Exo Terra Repti Glo 2.0 Tropical Fluorescent Tube
Exo Terra Repti Glo 2.0 Tropical Fluorescent Tube
This fluorescent tube offers a completely different approach, as it focuses on creating a more tropical environment. While it isn’t as strong as other UVB bulbs, it provides beneficial lighting for certain species, including smaller lizards. It’s compatible with a range of setups, especially those featuring live plants.
Exo Terra Repti Glo 2.0 Tropical Fluorescent Tube
- Bulb Output: The Exo Terra Natural Light is a full spectrum daylight bulb with a very high visual light output and high color rendering index (98 CRI).
- Color Temperature: With its high visual light output and 6700K color temperature, the Natural Light Terrarium Bulb is recommended as a general light source for all terrarium types.
- Ideal For: The high light output makes this bulb suitable for planted terrariums and it is ideal for animals with lower UV requirements, such as snakes, amphibians (frogs, toads and salamanders) and nocturnal animals.
- Pairs With: Combine this full spectrum daylight bulb with Exo Terra’s Reptile UVB100, Reptile UVB150 or Reptile UVB200 (sold separately), depending on the reptile’s UV requirements, to intensify natural sunlight conditions.
Best for: Tropical and mixed-species habitats.
Pros: Ideal for low UVB needs; enhances the environment visually.
Cons: Not suitable for bearded dragons requiring stronger UVB exposure.
10. Repti Bulb 2-in-1 Mercury Vapor Bulb
Repti Bulb 2-in-1 Mercury Vapor Bulb
This innovative bulb combines the benefits of both UVB and heat in one package, making it an excellent choice for bearded dragons. The Repti Bulb 2-in-1 not only provides UVB rays essential for your reptile’s health but also keeps the enclosure warm, building an ideal climate for your pet.
Repti Bulb 2-in-1 Mercury Vapor Bulb
−$5.00
- Auto Shut Off Protect - Reptile light bulb uvb bearded lamp a safety feature called "THERMAL RESET" can intelligent control the temperature. Simply cool down uvb bearded light around 15-20 minutes and then restart it.
- Keep your reptile healthy - uvb bulb self-ballasted reptile bulb provides the benefits of natural sunlight, uvb heat lamp which is one of the most important aspects in keeping reptiles healthy.
- All in one sum lamp - Reptile 100 watt light bulb the choice of professional breeders as Reptile Vapor bulb provides the proper balance of UVB and UVA heat light, in one easy-to-install uvb bulb light. Please check pictures for size to ensure the bulb is not too large for your fixture.
- A full specturm light - Reptile uvb lamp bulb with carefully tuned peaks to ensure appetite, activity, brilliant colours, and optimal calcium absorption through Vitamin D3 production.
- Advice - The uvb lamp light should be mounted in a vertical fixture so that the uvb light bulbis straight down, not tilted,mounting the uvb light lamp vertically can reduces damage due to overheating and increases its "burn life".
Best for: Simultaneous UVB and heating.
Pros: Cost-effective; simplifies setup; promotes healthy basking behavior.
Cons: Risk of overheating; needs careful placement.
This selection of the best UVB bulbs for bearded dragons in 2025 encompasses a range of needs and preferences, ensuring that every reptile owner can find the right product to suit their environment and their pet’s specific requirements. Each product listed here has been carefully chosen based on quality, effectiveness, and customer feedback to help ensure a healthy habitat for your beloved dragon.
Buying Guide for UVB Bulbs for Bearded Dragons
When it comes to creating a healthy and comfortable environment for your bearded dragon, lighting is crucial. UVB bulbs play a key role in providing the necessary UVB radiation for your pet’s health. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you choose the right UVB bulb for your bearded dragon.
1. Understanding UVB Light
What is UVB?
UVB (Ultraviolet B) light is essential for reptiles as it helps them synthesize vitamin D3, which is crucial for calcium absorption. Without adequate UVB exposure, bearded dragons can develop metabolic bone disease and other health issues.
2. Types of UVB Bulbs
a. Fluorescent Bulbs
- Description: Common type of UVB bulb; available in different strengths (e.g., UVB 5.0, UVB 10.0).
- Pros: Economical and easy to replace.
- Cons: Typically need to be replaced every 6-12 months.
b. Compact Bulbs
- Description: Small, spiral-shaped bulbs that fit in standard sockets.
- Pros: Space-saving and convenient.
- Cons: Heat output is often low; must be used with a heat source.
c. Mercury Vapor Bulbs
- Description: Combine UVB and heat in one bulb.
- Pros: Excellent for larger enclosures; higher UVB output.
- Cons: More expensive; heat can be too much for smaller setups.
d. LED UVB Bulbs
- Description: Emerging technology that provides UVB light and uses less energy.
- Pros: Long lifespan and energy-efficient.
- Cons: Still under development; check for specific UVB output levels.
3. UVB Strength
a. Choosing the Right Strength
- For Hatchlings & Juveniles: Generally prefer a lower UVB level (UVB 5.0).
- For Adults: A higher UVB level (UVB 10.0 or 12.0) is usually recommended.
b. Distance Matters
- Be mindful of how far the bulb is from your bearded dragon’s basking spot. The effective distance typically ranges from 12-18 inches, depending on the bulb strength.
4. Fixture Types
- Reflector Fixtures: Enhance UVB output by reflecting light into the enclosure.
- Covering: Make sure your fixture is compatible with the bulb type you choose and provides adequate coverage over your reptile’s basking area.
5. Considerations for Placement
- Positioning: Place the UVB light on one side of the enclosure to create a basking area.
- Basking Spot: Ensure your dragon can bask under the UVB while also having a cooler area to retreat to.
6. Additional Lighting Needs
- Heat Lamp: Bearded dragons also need a heat source. A heat bulb or ceramic heater can be used in conjunction with the UVB bulb.
- Daylight Cycle: Mimic a natural day/night cycle by using a timer to provide 10-12 hours of light per day.
7. Maintenance
- Replacement: Check the manufacturer’s recommendation for bulb replacement frequency. Even if the bulb is still producing light, it may not be emitting effective UVB radiation.
- Cleaning: Regularly clean the bulb and fixture to ensure maximum light output.
8. Top Brands to Consider
- Zoo Med: Known for reliability and quality UVB bulbs.
- Exo Terra: Offers a range of options for different setups.
- ReptiSun: Highly rated for their effective UVB bulbs.
9. Budget Considerations
- Price Range: UVB bulbs can range from $15 to $60 depending on type and brand. Consider investing in a high-quality bulb for your pet’s health.
10. Final Tips
- Research: Always read reviews and gather information about the specific bulb before purchasing.
- Consult Experts: If unsure about the best bulb for your setup, consult with a veterinarian specializing in reptiles or a knowledgeable pet store staff.
By choosing the right UVB bulb and ensuring proper care, you’ll help your bearded dragon thrive in a healthy environment. Happy reptile keeping!
