ReptiSun 10.0 vs Repti-Glo 10.0: Best UVB for Beardies
Could one of these bulbs actually boost your bearded dragon’s color, energy, and lifespan — or is it all marketing hype?
Ready to glow? Quickly comparing ReptiSun 10.0 and Repti-Glo 10.0 so you can pick the best UVB lamp for your bearded dragon’s health and enclosure setup right now.
Excellent option when you need high UVB in a small footprint — economical and flexible for dome fixtures or mini hoods. Best suited to small-to-medium beardie setups where the lamp can be placed close to the basking spot.
A strong choice when you need wide, reliable UVB coverage for medium to large beardie enclosures. Performs well over longer distances and pairs nicely with a separate basking lamp for heat.
ZooMed ReptiSun 10.0
UVB Output
9
Coverage / Effective Range
6.5
Lifespan & Reliability
7
Value / Price
8.5
Exo Terra Repti-Glo
UVB Output
9.5
Coverage / Effective Range
9
Lifespan & Reliability
8.5
Value / Price
7.5
ZooMed ReptiSun 10.0
Pros
True 10.0 UVB in a compact, dome-friendly form
Uses UVB-transmitting quartz glass for strong penetration
Affordable price — good value for small setups
Can be mounted vertically or horizontally for flexibility
Product overview: specs, sizes, and what's included
Zoo Med ReptiSun 10.0 Mini — 13W compact CFL
The ReptiSun Mini is a compact fluorescent “mini” bulb built for dome-style setups and small to medium beardie enclosures. It’s made with UVB-transmitting quartz glass for stronger penetration despite the small size.
Wattage: 13 watts
Bulb type: Compact Fluorescent Lamp (CFL), mini tubular shape
Size: Short, dome-friendly (about 6″ overall package length; actual bulb is compact)
Recommended fixtures: Mini Deep Dome Lamp, naturalistic terrarium hoods, many standard dome sockets (check your dome model)
Included: 1 x ReptiSun 10.0 Mini bulb (pack of 1)
Approximate price: ~$17
Exo Terra Repti-Glo 10.0 — 15W / 18″ linear tube
The Repti-Glo 10.0 is a full-length T8 style fluorescent tube that gives broader, more even UVB coverage—better for larger or taller beardie tanks.
The Zoo Med mini is compact and easy to drop into dome lights or small hoods; best for single-beardie tanks or shorter setups.
The Exo Terra tube needs a proper tube fixture (and space above the screen) but covers wider tanks and reaches farther from the bulb.
2
UVB performance and coverage: real-world effectiveness
Measured UVB & penetration
Zoo Med ReptiSun Mini (13W CFL)The Mini is a high-peak, short-range emitter—its quartz glass boosts penetration so it produces strong UVB close to the bulb, but output falls off steeply with distance. Zoo Med advertises 10% UVB (the “10.0” grade) and significant UVA output; expect useful UVB only in the nearer range of a basking spot.
Exo Terra Repti‑Glo 10.0 (15W tube)A linear T8 tube gives a lower peak at a very close spot than some CFLs, but maintains usable UVB across a wider distance—manufacturerclaims and hobby testing put effective levels out to ~18–20 inches for basking reptiles.
Coverage & evenness
Zoo Med Mini: very strong under the bulb but a compact footprint—hotspot directly beneath and rapid falloff to the sides; uneven coverage for wider tanks.
Exo Terra tube: broad, even band of UVB along the tube length; fewer shadowed zones and better cross‑tank coverage when centered above the basking area.
UVA, spectrum, and biology
Both are “10.0” desert-spectrum lamps (peaks in the 280–320 nm UVB window). That UVB drives vitamin D3 synthesis in the skin, enabling calcium absorption and healthy bone metabolism. Both also emit UVA (behavioral/feeding cues); Zoo Med quotes higher percent UVA in the Mini which can boost activity under the lamp.
Practical placement & tips
Recommended distances:
Zoo Med Mini: aim 6–8 inches from the dragon’s back for strong UVB; closer if the dragon is sluggish, but avoid direct contact.
Exo Terra tube: mount 12–18 inches above the basking rock (check screen thickness—screens reduce UVB).
Geometry notes:
CFL (compact) = hotspot + steeper gradient; use for focused basking or small tanks.
Tube = even band, fewer shadows; better for wider or taller enclosures.
Always remove glass between bulb and animal; use open/screened terrariums or fixtures rated for UVB.
Feature Comparison Chart
ZooMed ReptiSun 10.0 vs. Exo Terra Repti-Glo
VS
Brand
Zoo Med
VS
Exo Terra
Model
ReptiSun 10.0 Mini (FS-C10M)
VS
Repti-Glo 10.0 (15W / 18″)
Type
Compact Fluorescent (CFL)
VS
Fluorescent tube (T8)
Wattage
13 Watts
VS
15 Watts
Length / Size
Mini (approx 6 inches)
VS
18 inches (full-length tube)
UVB output
About 10% UVB (quartz glass)
VS
About 10% UVB; strong output
Effective range
Best within ~6–8 inches
VS
Effective up to ~18–20 inches
Best for enclosure
Small to medium desert enclosures, dome hoods
VS
Medium to large desert enclosures; screened terrariums
Glass / Construction
UVB-transmitting quartz glass
VS
Phosphor-coated glass tube
Orientation
Vertical or horizontal
VS
Horizontal (tube fixtures)
Expected lifespan
Approx 6 months (manufacturer average)
VS
Approx 9–12 months typical
Socket / Base
B15D (E26-compatible in some fixtures)
VS
E27 / standard tube fixture
Voltage
100–120V (60 Hz)
VS
220–240V (50 Hz) — regional variants exist
Energy efficiency
High (CFL technology)
VS
Energy Efficient
Price
$$
VS
$$$
Recommended for Beardies
Yes (small/close-range setups)
VS
Yes (best for longer-range coverage)
Notes
Great in mini domes; needs close placement to basking spot
VS
Best used as a full-length UVB source over a screened or open-top terrarium
3
Installation, lifespan, heat, and daily use
Ease of installation & recommended fixtures
Zoo Med ReptiSun Mini (13W): screw-in compact (fits standard E26 dome-type sockets) — works great in Mini Deep Dome Lamps and many naturalistic hoods. Ideal for deep domes or reflector fixtures that create a focused hotspot.
Exo Terra Repti‑Glo 10.0 (15W/18″): linear T8-style tube — needs a tube fixture or full-length terrarium hood/reflector (18″ compatible). It will NOT fit small dome sockets.
Lifespan and when to replace
Zoo Med Mini: manufacturer lists average life ~6 months for effective UVB. Replace every 6 months (UVB drops well before visible light does).
Exo Terra tube: expect a longer usable UVB span — replace around 9–12 months (or sooner if measurements drop). Always swap on schedule, not when the light still looks bright.
Heat production & using basking bulbs
Zoo Med Mini: more concentrated radiant heat under the bulb — small hotspot that can raise local basking temps a few degrees. Good for tight basking spots.
Exo Terra tube: low radiant heat, spreads light without much extra warmth.
Practical tip: neither should be your primary heat source. Use a dedicated basking bulb (halogen/incandescent) or ceramic heat emitter for target basking temps; position UVB so dragon can safely bask under both without touching bulbs.
Daily use, cleaning, and safety
Light cycle: aim for ~12 hours/day (juveniles toward 14 hours); use a timer for consistency.
Maintenance: wipe bulbs monthly with a soft damp cloth to remove dust (power off and cool first).
Safety notes: remove glass between bulb and animal (screens okay — but reduce UVB). Keep bulbs out of reach to prevent contact burns; don’t use compact bulbs in enclosed fixtures unless rated — heat can shorten life. Secure fixtures to prevent falls and follow clearance recommendations for your hood/reflector.
4
Health outcomes, price, and practical value for beardie owners
How each lamp affects health & behavior
Both bulbs are Repti 10.0-strength and will support calcium metabolism and natural activity when used correctly, but they work differently in practice. The Exo Terra tube gives broad, even UVB across a larger footprint so beardies can roam and still receive adequate exposure — this reduces the chance of chronic underexposure, supports steady appetite, and lowers long-term risk of metabolic bone disease (MBD). The Zoo Med Mini produces strong, concentrated UVB in a smaller zone; it’s great if your dragon reliably basks directly under it, but less forgiving if your setup doesn’t force regular close-range basking.
Price and ongoing cost
Zoo Med ReptiSun Mini: ≈ $17 per bulb; recommended replacement ~every 6 months → roughly $34/year for bulb replacement.
Exo Terra Repti‑Glo 15W/18″: ≈ $37 per tube; replace about every 9–12 months → roughly $37/year (or slightly higher if you replace at 9 months).
Availability & warranty/support
Zoo Med: Widely available on Amazon (lots of reviews), manufacturer warranty noted; easy to find replacements or compatible domes.
Exo Terra: Available on Amazon though fewer listings/reviews; backed by Exo Terra/Rolf C. Hagen support and common tube fixtures. Amazon return policies apply to both.
Practical buying scenarios
Small desktop tanks / limited fixture space: Zoo Med Mini — fits domes, compact, lower upfront cost.
Large enclosures / open screen tops: Exo Terra tube — better even coverage, less “hide-and-seek” for UVB.
Hobbyists wanting maximum coverage and consistency: Exo Terra tube.
Owners needing a compact, affordable option or a secondary UVB source: Zoo Med Mini.
Final verdict: Which is best for your beardie?
Overall winner: Exo Terra Repti‑Glo 10.0. The 15W tube delivers broader, stronger UVB coverage and more even light across typical beardie enclosures, making it the best pick for standard and larger tanks. Trade-offs: it needs a proper fixture and space for an 18″ tube, and replacement bulbs are slightly bulkier.
Choose ReptiSun 10.0 Mini if you have a nano or desktop setup, a travel/temporary lamp, or very limited hood space — it’s compact, simple to install, and provides good UVB at short distances. Choose the Repti‑Glo 10.0 tube if your tank is 18–36 inches long, you want even coverage for basking and climbing areas, or you prefer a long-lasting full-length fixture. Quick buying tip: match the bulb length to tank length and prioritize the tube for full-tank coverage; grab the mini only for confined or portable setups. Replace bulbs every 6–12 months for consistent UVB output.
Emily is a passionate pet care expert and the voice behind Pet Wool Bed.
19 Comments
I have a question about screens vs glass lids — planning a revamp soon.
If I use the Repti-Glo 18″ under a glass top, am I losing most of the UVB? I run daytime heat lamps too and don’t want too many fixtures. Also, does anyone stack a tube and a compact together for better coverage? Would that be overkill?
Sorry for all the Qs, first time adult beardie mom here 🤓
Screen lid + tube is my go-to. Keeps UVB good and you can mount heat lamps above the screen safely.
Don’t worry — lots of us started with too many lights. Simpler setups often work best.
Welcome to beardie parenting! Short answers: yes, glass blocks a large portion of UVB — mesh/screen is much better. Stacking a tube and a compact is usually unnecessary and can create uneven hotspots; instead, choose the bulb type that best suits your tank size and use reflectors or multiple tubes if needed.
Question: how often should you replace these bulbs? I know a lot of people say “every 6-12 months” but do the ReptiSun mini and Repti-Glo 10.0 age differently because of wattage/size?
Also, do minis dim faster because they’re compact? I’m trying to plan a budget: bulb cost + replacement + fixture upgrade if needed. Any real-world timelines appreciated.
Also worth noting: some sellers ship older stock. Check manufacture date on the packaging if possible.
Good question. Most reptile lighting manufacturers recommend replacing UVB bulbs around 6-12 months because UV output declines even if visible light remains. Both the mini (13W) and the Repti-Glo (15W) degrade over time; neither lasts ‘forever.’ Tubes can sometimes maintain useful output a bit longer, but it’s best to follow the 6-12 month guideline and watch your pet’s behavior.
I replace mine every 10 months religiously. Cheaper than dealing with metabolic bone disease later 😬
If you’re on a budget, buy bulbs on sale and keep track of install dates. I mark the tube with the month/year so I don’t forget.
Yep — date stamps saved me once. I bought “new” bulbs that were actually 9 months old on the shelf.
If you’re trying to maximize coverage, use reflectors or a light strip with the tube. The Repti-Glo with a decent reflector gave me broader UVB without adding extra bulbs.
Distance matters a ton — closer = stronger UVB but also more heat. Balance it for the right basking temp.
Right — reflectors can improve efficiency and evenness of distribution. Just ensure any reflector or hood design doesn’t trap heat excessively and always measure basking spot temps.
Agreed. Bought a reflector for my tube and it definitely improved coverage.
I’ve been using the ReptiSun 10.0 mini for a while on a 20 gal long — works fine for my juvenile beardie. The compact fits nicely into tight fixtures and doesn’t stick out like the long tubes. attery? jk 😅
Main thing I noticed: you have to watch distance. Mine is about 8-10 inches from the basking spot and the little guy loves it. Anyone else run the mini in a hood instead of a reflector?
I used the mini in a hood too. Worked okay for a bit, but my beardie eventually needed more even coverage — switched to a tube and saw more consistent basking behavior.
Yep, screen vs glass makes a big diff. With a screen lid you get good UVB transmission, with glass you’ll block a lot. Glad your setup is working tho!
Good point, Laura — compact fluorescents need appropriate fixtures and careful placement because they have a smaller emission area. If you’re using a hood, make sure there’s no glass between the bulb and the basking spot; mesh screens reduce UVB.
My beardie now wears tiny sunglasses. jk 😂
But seriously, I went with the ReptiSun mini because my tank is small and I didn’t want an 18″ hanging over it. Works fine and my dragon eats his greens. Probably overthinking it, but price vs performance felt right for me.
Same here — small tank + budget = mini. Just remember to check for even UVB and rotate or replace if you notice behavioral changes.
I have a question about screens vs glass lids — planning a revamp soon.
If I use the Repti-Glo 18″ under a glass top, am I losing most of the UVB? I run daytime heat lamps too and don’t want too many fixtures. Also, does anyone stack a tube and a compact together for better coverage? Would that be overkill?
Sorry for all the Qs, first time adult beardie mom here 🤓
Screen lid + tube is my go-to. Keeps UVB good and you can mount heat lamps above the screen safely.
Don’t worry — lots of us started with too many lights. Simpler setups often work best.
Welcome to beardie parenting! Short answers: yes, glass blocks a large portion of UVB — mesh/screen is much better. Stacking a tube and a compact is usually unnecessary and can create uneven hotspots; instead, choose the bulb type that best suits your tank size and use reflectors or multiple tubes if needed.
Question: how often should you replace these bulbs? I know a lot of people say “every 6-12 months” but do the ReptiSun mini and Repti-Glo 10.0 age differently because of wattage/size?
Also, do minis dim faster because they’re compact? I’m trying to plan a budget: bulb cost + replacement + fixture upgrade if needed. Any real-world timelines appreciated.
Also worth noting: some sellers ship older stock. Check manufacture date on the packaging if possible.
Good question. Most reptile lighting manufacturers recommend replacing UVB bulbs around 6-12 months because UV output declines even if visible light remains. Both the mini (13W) and the Repti-Glo (15W) degrade over time; neither lasts ‘forever.’ Tubes can sometimes maintain useful output a bit longer, but it’s best to follow the 6-12 month guideline and watch your pet’s behavior.
I replace mine every 10 months religiously. Cheaper than dealing with metabolic bone disease later 😬
If you’re on a budget, buy bulbs on sale and keep track of install dates. I mark the tube with the month/year so I don’t forget.
Yep — date stamps saved me once. I bought “new” bulbs that were actually 9 months old on the shelf.
If you’re trying to maximize coverage, use reflectors or a light strip with the tube. The Repti-Glo with a decent reflector gave me broader UVB without adding extra bulbs.
Distance matters a ton — closer = stronger UVB but also more heat. Balance it for the right basking temp.
Right — reflectors can improve efficiency and evenness of distribution. Just ensure any reflector or hood design doesn’t trap heat excessively and always measure basking spot temps.
Agreed. Bought a reflector for my tube and it definitely improved coverage.
I’ve been using the ReptiSun 10.0 mini for a while on a 20 gal long — works fine for my juvenile beardie. The compact fits nicely into tight fixtures and doesn’t stick out like the long tubes. attery? jk 😅
Main thing I noticed: you have to watch distance. Mine is about 8-10 inches from the basking spot and the little guy loves it. Anyone else run the mini in a hood instead of a reflector?
I used the mini in a hood too. Worked okay for a bit, but my beardie eventually needed more even coverage — switched to a tube and saw more consistent basking behavior.
Yep, screen vs glass makes a big diff. With a screen lid you get good UVB transmission, with glass you’ll block a lot. Glad your setup is working tho!
Good point, Laura — compact fluorescents need appropriate fixtures and careful placement because they have a smaller emission area. If you’re using a hood, make sure there’s no glass between the bulb and the basking spot; mesh screens reduce UVB.
My beardie now wears tiny sunglasses. jk 😂
But seriously, I went with the ReptiSun mini because my tank is small and I didn’t want an 18″ hanging over it. Works fine and my dragon eats his greens. Probably overthinking it, but price vs performance felt right for me.
Same here — small tank + budget = mini. Just remember to check for even UVB and rotate or replace if you notice behavioral changes.