Repti-Glo 5.0 vs ReptiSun 10.0: Best UVB for Bearded Dragons
Repti-Glo 5.0 or ReptiSun 10.0 — which UVB actually gives your bearded dragon better health, fewer hassles, and happier basking sessions?
Sunshine in a bulb? Picking the right UVB matters for bearded dragons’ health. This head-to-head compares Exo Terra Repti-Glo 5.0 and Zoo Med ReptiSun 10.0, covering specs, UVB performance, installation, lifespan, safety, cost, and best-use scenarios, with clear, practical recommendations for every keeper, so your dragon thrives indoors every day.
A solid compact fluorescent option for tropical or low-UV applications where a softer UV output is preferred. It offers good longevity and consistent spectral output, but it isn’t the best choice if your goal is maximum UVB for heavy-basking species.
A reliable, high-UV option built for desert and heavy-basking reptiles that need steady 10% UVB. It delivers strong UV penetration and installation flexibility, though it’s overkill for species that require only low UV levels.
Exo Terra 5.0
UVB Output
6.5
UVA Coverage
7.5
Spectrum Consistency
8
Longevity
8.5
Zoo Med 10.0
UVB Output
9
UVA Coverage
8.5
Spectrum Consistency
8.5
Longevity
8
Exo Terra 5.0
Pros
Gentle, natural-looking light that suits tropical setups
Long rated life (listed ~12,000 hours)
High brightness for small/domed fixtures (650 lumens)
Available in a compact 13W form factor that fits many domes
Zoo Med 10.0
Pros
High 10.0 UVB output ideal for desert/basking reptiles
Quartz glass construction improves UVB transmission
Can be oriented vertically or horizontally for flexible mounting
Strong value for a high-UV mini compact bulb
Exo Terra 5.0
Cons
Only 5.0 UVB — not ideal for strictly desert/basking reptiles
Uses standard glass (less UVB transmission than quartz options)
Zoo Med 10.0
Cons
Stronger UVB means it can be too intense for shade-preferring species
Slightly shorter real-world lifespan than some premium bulbs
Side-by-side first impressions: both are 13 W compact fluorescents meant for domes/mini fixtures, but they target different habitats. Exo Terra Repti-Glo 5.0 is a gentle, tropical-style lamp; Zoo Med ReptiSun 10.0 is a higher-output desert/basking lamp — that difference matters because bearded dragons are desert species that generally do better with stronger UVB (closer to 10.0) for vitamin D3 synthesis and calcium metabolism.
Standard compact CFL base (fits compatible fixtures)
Orientation
Typically horizontal (fits many dome fixtures)
VS
Vertical or horizontal capable
Average Life
~12,000 hours (manufacturer listed)
VS
Manufacturer typical life (consumer reports ~10,000+ hours)
Brightness (Lumens)
650 lumens
VS
Comparable to 13W compact outputs (effective basking light)
Recommended Use
Tropical species, low-to-moderate UV requirements
VS
Desert species and active baskers (e.g., bearded dragons)
Price
$$$
VS
$$
Manufacturer
Rolf C. Hagen (Exo Terra)
VS
Zoo Med Laboratories, Inc.
Compatible Fixtures
Standard E26 dome fixtures and compact lamp holders
VS
Mini compact fixtures, dome lights that accept CFLs
Product Dimensions
Approx. 2.1″W x 6″H
VS
Mini compact dimensions (fits small domes/fixtures)
Voltage
220–240V (listed); typical consumer versions available
VS
Standard household voltage (per region)
Control Method
Timer / manual switch (standard)
VS
Timer / manual switch (standard)
2
UVB performance and coverage: what your dragon actually gets
How UVB matters
Bearded dragons need consistent UVB to make vitamin D3 and absorb calcium. UVB strength and how close the basking spot is to the bulb determine whether your dragon gets enough for healthy bone and metabolism.
Exo Terra Repti-Glo 5.0 — real-world output & coverage
The Repti-Glo 5.0 is a low-to-moderate UVB emitter meant for shade/tropical setups. In a typical 36–48″ bearded dragon tank it provides usable UVB only right under the lamp — best for juveniles or dragons that bask very close.
Recommended practical guidance:
Suggested basking distance: ~4–8 inches from the bulb for useful UVB.
Effective coverage: small focused area (basking rock directly beneath); not enough to uniformly cover a full adult tank.
Use case: fine as a supplemental or mixed with a stronger source; good light color and easier for shy dragons.
Zoo Med ReptiSun 10.0 — real-world output & coverage
The ReptiSun 10.0 pushes much stronger UVB through quartz glass, so it produces a larger usable zone and supports adult bearded dragons’ D3 synthesis when mounted correctly.
Practical guidance:
Suggested basking distance: ~6–12 inches from the bulb (depending on fixture/reflection).
Effective coverage: broader useful area — can cover a typical single-basking-zone adult setup.
Use case: recommended primary UVB source for desert species; watch for overexposure in very small/close setups.
Photoperiod, intensity and health implications
Photoperiod: 10–12 hours of UVB/day mimics natural cycles.
Intensity: 10.0 delivers far more UVB than 5.0; 5.0 may be insufficient alone for adults.
Health impact: inadequate UVB → low D3 → poor calcium absorption → metabolic bone disease risk. Err on the side of proper placement and measurements (UVB meter) rather than assumptions.
3
Installation, lifespan, safety and maintenance
Mounting & fixture compatibility
Mini compact bulbs need a matching compact ballast/dome — don’t try to force them into linear T8 fixtures. Check the bulb base (most 13W mini compacts use a standard screw base) and buy a fixture rated for compact fluorescents or the manufacturer’s dome/fixture. Both Exo Terra Repti-Glo 5.0 and Zoo Med ReptiSun 10.0 are designed for mini-compact domes, and the ReptiSun’s quartz construction can be oriented vertically or horizontally for flexible mounting.
Verify base type and fixture rating before installing.
CFL mini compacts run cooler than mercury vapor or halogen heat bulbs but still create local hot spots. Neither bulb is a primary heat source.
Keep basking surface at recommended distances (Repti-Glo 5.0: ~4–8″; ReptiSun 10.0: ~6–12″) and verify with a digital thermometer.
Prevent direct contact: mount bulbs where the dragon cannot touch the glass to avoid burns.
Use a separate, properly rated heat bulb or ceramic emitter if you need higher basking temperatures.
Lifespan, degradation & replacement
Visible light life can be long, but UVB output degrades faster.
General rule: replace UVB compact bulbs every 6–12 months.
Exo Terra lists ~12,000 hours life for visible output, but UVB potency still declines — aim closer to the 12-month mark for low-output bulbs.
Zoo Med ReptiSun 10.0 gives stronger UVB but degrade faster in functional UVB terms — consider replacing every 6–9 months.
Use a UVB meter to check real output; don’t trust age alone.
Cleaning & handling
Always power off and let the bulb cool before touching.
Wipe with a soft, damp cloth; avoid abrasive cleaners.
Minimize direct skin oils on quartz glass (use gloves or clean hands) — oils can reduce transmission and risk hot spots.
Replace immediately if cracked or dropped; quartz and glass can shatter unpredictably.
4
Cost, availability, pros & cons, and best-use scenarios
Price & availability
Exo Terra Repti-Glo 5.0 — Amazon ~ $26. Widely stocked; often sold by multiple sellers and Amazon itself.
Zoo Med ReptiSun 10.0 — Amazon ~ $17. Common, frequently discounted, higher review volume (strong availability and price competition).
Warranty & returns
Exo Terra: Manufacturer warranty listed; Amazon return policy applies (usually 30 days). Keep order info for warranty claims.
Zoo Med: Manufacturer support available; Amazon A-to-Z and standard returns cover most purchases. Always check the specific seller listing and save receipts.
Only 5.0 UVB (not ideal for strict desert/basking needs); uses regular glass (reduces UVB transmission).
Pros & cons — Zoo Med ReptiSun 10.0
Pros:
Strong 10.0 UVB output and quartz glass for better UVB transmission; excellent value per dollar; flexible mounting orientation.
Cons:
More intense UVB can be too strong for shade-preferring species; shorter practical UVB life (replace 6–9 months).
Best-use recommendations
Juvenile bearded dragons: Zoo Med ReptiSun 10.0 — stronger UVB supports growth (in small/medium enclosures).
Adult bearded dragons: Zoo Med 10.0 preferred as primary UVB; Exo Terra 5.0 acceptable only as a supplemental light or for adults in heavily shaded/mixed tropical setups.
Enclosure size: For very small tanks (short reach), a 13W mini compact can work; for medium to large enclosures use a T5 HO tube or MVB as primary and consider these mini compacts only as supplemental.
Final verdict — which is best for bearded dragons?
ReptiSun 10.0 is the clear winner for bearded dragons — choose it as your primary UVB source for hatchlings through adults kept indoors. Its higher UVB output better matches desert needs, supports vitamin D3 synthesis, and reduces metabolic bone disease risk when installed at correct distance. Use the 13W compact in fixtures with minimal glass cover and position the bulb 8–12 inches above the basking spot per manufacturer guidance.
Choose Repti-Glo 5.0 only if your dragon has abundant natural sunlight access, you use a high-output mercury vapor lamp elsewhere, or you need a low-UVB option for a secondary display. Regardless of lamp, replace bulbs at 6–12 months, avoid running UV through glass, give a thermal gradient and measured basking distance, and consider a UVB meter to verify output regularly. Want reassurance? Start with ReptiSun 10.0 for core lighting, add Repti-Glo only as supplemental.
Emily is a passionate pet care expert and the voice behind Pet Wool Bed.
17 Comments
Loved the comparison chart — helped me decide. A couple of questions:
1) Are both bulbs the same wattage? (article says 13W for both but wanted to confirm)
2) Does the 10.0 heat the tank more than the 5.0 or is it mostly UV difference?
3) Any tips on replacing bulbs timeline? I’m terrible at keeping schedules 😅
Good questions! Yes, both mini compacts in the article are 13W. The main difference is UVB output, not wattage, so heat change is minimal but you may notice slightly more basking activity under the 10.0. As for replacement: many recommend swapping out compact fluorescents around 6–12 months for consistent UVB, even if light output looks fine.
On the heat point: mine didn’t change temps noticeably. It was more about the dragon basking longer under the 10.0.
Also remember that UVB decreases over time even if visible light looks okay — that’s why replacement schedule matters.
Thanks everyone — calendar reminder and a meter on order. Fingers crossed my dragon approves 🙏
I set a calendar reminder every 9 months. Works like a charm. If you’ve got a timer for lights, add a replacement reminder too.
Good plan! Share an update — always helpful to see real feedback over time.
Nice comparison! I actually like the softer look of the Repti Glo 5.0 for daytime photos — the whites & tans render nicer skin tones in pics 😂
But for vitamin D and overall health, sounds like 10.0 is the better pick for beardies.
Ha, aesthetics do matter! Good point — if you want both looks and stronger UVB, some people use a mix of lighting (but be careful with overlapping fixtures and meter readings).
Short and simple: for beardies I’d pick ReptiSun 10.0. Way better for desert species. The Exo Terra 5.0 is fine for tropical lizards though.
Great write-up — thanks for comparing these two.
I’ve had my beardie for 3 years and switched between bulbs a few times.
Quick takeaway: ReptiSun 10.0 gave way better activity and color, but the tank temps got a little higher so I had to tweak the setup.
I liked seeing the color temp and spectrum notes in the article — helped me understand why the 5.0 looks warmer.
One thing I’d add: measure UVB at the basking spot, not just trust the box.
Yep, this. I accidentally had my lamp 12″ away and my beardie barely got any UVB. Moved it to 6-8″ and she’s like a new lizard 😂
Totally — measuring UVB at the basking spot with a meter is the best practice. Thanks for sharing your real-world experience, Laura!
Do you remember which fixture you used for the ReptiSun? I’ve got the mini compact model and wondered about placement options.
I switched from Exo Terra Repti Glo 5.0 (the whites & tans version) to the Zoo Med 10.0 because my vet recommended stronger UVB for my juvenile beardie.
The difference was noticeable: more appetite and brighter colors.
That said, make sure your tank is set up for a desert species — substrate, hides, and temp gradients matter as much as the bulb.
Totally agree — UVB is one piece of the puzzle. Good to hear your pup responded well after the change!
Agreed about the whole setup. Switched UVB but kept cool hides and that helped avoid overheating when my guy went under the lamp.
Loved the comparison chart — helped me decide. A couple of questions:
1) Are both bulbs the same wattage? (article says 13W for both but wanted to confirm)
2) Does the 10.0 heat the tank more than the 5.0 or is it mostly UV difference?
3) Any tips on replacing bulbs timeline? I’m terrible at keeping schedules 😅
Good questions! Yes, both mini compacts in the article are 13W. The main difference is UVB output, not wattage, so heat change is minimal but you may notice slightly more basking activity under the 10.0. As for replacement: many recommend swapping out compact fluorescents around 6–12 months for consistent UVB, even if light output looks fine.
On the heat point: mine didn’t change temps noticeably. It was more about the dragon basking longer under the 10.0.
Also remember that UVB decreases over time even if visible light looks okay — that’s why replacement schedule matters.
Thanks everyone — calendar reminder and a meter on order. Fingers crossed my dragon approves 🙏
I set a calendar reminder every 9 months. Works like a charm. If you’ve got a timer for lights, add a replacement reminder too.
Good plan! Share an update — always helpful to see real feedback over time.
Nice comparison! I actually like the softer look of the Repti Glo 5.0 for daytime photos — the whites & tans render nicer skin tones in pics 😂
But for vitamin D and overall health, sounds like 10.0 is the better pick for beardies.
Ha, aesthetics do matter! Good point — if you want both looks and stronger UVB, some people use a mix of lighting (but be careful with overlapping fixtures and meter readings).
Short and simple: for beardies I’d pick ReptiSun 10.0. Way better for desert species. The Exo Terra 5.0 is fine for tropical lizards though.
Great write-up — thanks for comparing these two.
I’ve had my beardie for 3 years and switched between bulbs a few times.
Quick takeaway: ReptiSun 10.0 gave way better activity and color, but the tank temps got a little higher so I had to tweak the setup.
I liked seeing the color temp and spectrum notes in the article — helped me understand why the 5.0 looks warmer.
One thing I’d add: measure UVB at the basking spot, not just trust the box.
Yep, this. I accidentally had my lamp 12″ away and my beardie barely got any UVB. Moved it to 6-8″ and she’s like a new lizard 😂
Totally — measuring UVB at the basking spot with a meter is the best practice. Thanks for sharing your real-world experience, Laura!
Do you remember which fixture you used for the ReptiSun? I’ve got the mini compact model and wondered about placement options.
I switched from Exo Terra Repti Glo 5.0 (the whites & tans version) to the Zoo Med 10.0 because my vet recommended stronger UVB for my juvenile beardie.
The difference was noticeable: more appetite and brighter colors.
That said, make sure your tank is set up for a desert species — substrate, hides, and temp gradients matter as much as the bulb.
Totally agree — UVB is one piece of the puzzle. Good to hear your pup responded well after the change!
Agreed about the whole setup. Switched UVB but kept cool hides and that helped avoid overheating when my guy went under the lamp.