Best Terrarium Heat Lamps of 2025

Janie Foster Avatar
Janie Foster
Last Updated: Jan 14, 2025

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Terrarium heat lamps provide a vital source of heat for reptiles, amphibians, and other small animals that require a warm environment to thrive. These lamps are designed to mimic the natural heat of the sun and can be used in a variety of enclosures, including terrariums, aquariums, and cages. They come in different sizes and wattages to suit different needs, and some models even include a built-in thermostat for precise temperature control. Terrarium heat lamps are a must-have for any pet owner who wants to provide a comfortable and healthy living space for their beloved pets.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

DaToo Reptile Heat Lamp 50W Cover #TOP 1
DaToo Reptile Heat Lamp 50W
ftb score rating icon 9.9
MCLANZOO 75W Reptile Heat Lamp Bulb Cover #TOP 2
MCLANZOO 75W Reptile Heat Lamp Bulb
ftb score rating icon 9.8
REPTI ZOO 100W Ceramic Heat Lamp Cover #TOP 3
REPTI ZOO 100W Ceramic Heat Lamp
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Terrarium Heat Lamps

#TOP 1

DaToo Reptile Heat Lamp 50W

DaToo Reptile Heat Lamp 50W Cover
DaToo Reptile Heat Lamp Rotatable Turtle Heating Light with 50W UVA UVB Heat Bulb Simulated Sunlight Basking Spot Lamp with Clamp for Reptiles Lizard Amphibian Bearded Dragon Snake

The DaToo Heat Lamp is designed to create a warm and inviting habitat for your reptiles and amphibians. Its scientific heat source system provides not only warmth but also essential UVA and UVB rays, promoting your pet's metabolism, food absorption, and bone growth. Built with a durable aluminum alloy and ceramic socket, this lamp ensures safety and longevity, lasting up to 3,000 hours. Plus, with a 360° rotatable head and a sturdy clip, you can easily adjust the light to suit your pet's needs, making it convenient to set up in any terrarium or aquarium.

What We Like
Natural sunlight simulation
Effective heat output
Sturdy clip design
Easy setup
Great value for price
What We Don't Like
Bulb can overheat
Potential for defects
#TOP 2

MCLANZOO 75W Reptile Heat Lamp Bulb

UVA 75W
White
2 Count (Pack of 1)
MCLANZOO 75W Reptile Heat Lamp Bulb Cover
MCLANZOO Reptile Heat Lamp 75W 2 Pack,UVA Basking Light Heat Lamp Bulbs,Natural Daylight Heating Light for Bearded Dragon,Turtle,Tortoise,Lizard,Snake,Gecko,Chicken with Digital Temperature Strips

MCLANZOO Reptile Heat Lamp is a high-quality heat source for reptiles and amphibians. It efficiently warms up the terrarium and increases the ambient air temperature. The UVA basking lamp bulb simulates UVA UV light, which promotes reptile appetite, enhances body color deposition, aids in food digestion, and boosts vitality. The easy installation process involves screwing the heat lamp bulb into a standard E26/E27 screw socket. With a 30-day quality guarantee, MCLANZOO ensures customer satisfaction. This heat lamp is suitable for lizard, tortoise, bearded dragon, hedgehogs, and other reptiles and amphibians. It provides a comfortable and warm environment for your pets, allowing them to thrive.

What We Like
Good price for quality
Effective heating for reptiles
Quick delivery
Long-lasting compared to others
Works well in cold conditions
What We Don't Like
Some bulbs may burn out quickly
Fragile glass construction
#TOP 3

REPTI ZOO 100W Ceramic Heat Lamp

DL180-JP
Black
REPTI ZOO 100W Ceramic Heat Lamp Cover
REPTI ZOO 100W Reptile Heat Lamp 2Pack Ceramic Heat Emitter Night Heat Lamp Bulbs Reptile Terrarium Heat lamp Tank Heat Bulb for Turtle Bearded Dragon Gecko Lizard Snake Chicken E26

The REPTI ZOO Heat Lamp is an excellent choice for keeping your reptiles and amphibians warm. With its reliable 100W output, it ensures consistent warmth around the clock, helping your pets maintain their body temperature. Unlike traditional lamps, this model does not emit visible light, allowing your pets to rest undisturbed while benefiting from the infrared heat that promotes better blood circulation. Its long lifespan of 10,000 hours means you won't need to replace it frequently, and its durable ceramic construction makes it perfect for humid environments like terrariums.

What We Like
Effective heat without light
Durable and long-lasting
Fast heating capability
Affordable option
Safe for reptiles
What We Don't Like
Potential for rapid heat loss
May not be safe for all pets
#TOP 4

Simple Deluxe 100W Ceramic Heat Emitter

100W Ceramic Heat Emitter 2 Pack Reptile
Black/2-pack
100W (D-75mm)
Simple Deluxe 100W Ceramic Heat Emitter Cover
Simple Deluxe 100W Ceramic Heat Emitter 2 Pack Reptile Heat Lamp No Light Emitting Heat Bulbs for Amphibian Terrarium, Bearded Dragon Lizard Snake Turtle, Brooder Coop Incubating Chicken

The Simple Deluxe Heat Emitter is designed to provide consistent warmth without disturbing your pets' sleep. These bulbs generate heat without emitting light, which is perfect for maintaining a peaceful environment. With high-quality materials, they offer excellent durability and efficient heating, ensuring quick temperature increases. Plus, they can operate continuously, making them ideal for both reptiles and poultry. This means you can keep your pets comfortable day and night without worrying about energy waste.

What We Like
Effective heating solution
Durable, shatter-resistant design
Great value for the price
Quick heating capability
Consistent temperature maintenance
What We Don't Like
Gets very hot
Potential cord issues
#TOP 5

HealSmart 100W Reptile Heat Lamp

Reptile Heat Lamp 100W 2-Pack Ceramic
Black
100W
HealSmart 100W Reptile Heat Lamp Cover
HealSmart Reptile Heat Lamp 100W 2-Pack Ceramic Heat Emitter, No Light Emitting Heat Bulbs for Amphibian Pet Brooder Coop Incubating Chicken, Lizard Bearded Dragon Turtle Snake Terrarium Black

The HealSmart Heat Lamp offers continuous warmth for your pets, functioning around the clock without emitting light. This means your reptiles can enjoy a natural sun-like heat that won’t disrupt their sleep cycles. With a lifespan of up to 10,000 hours, it provides reliable heat while being energy-efficient. Its high-quality design includes a durable ceramic bulb that prevents cracking and promotes faster heating. This lamp is ideal for maintaining the right temperature in terrariums, poultry coops, and incubators, ensuring your pets stay comfortable during colder months.

What We Like
Effective heat output
Durable construction
Good value for money
Suitable for various reptiles
Works well in cold weather
What We Don't Like
Bulb can become loose
Possible cracking upon arrival
#TOP 6

LUCKY HERP 150W Ceramic Heat Emitter

150W Ceramic Heat Emitter
Black
2 Count (Pack of 1)
LUCKY HERP 150W Ceramic Heat Emitter Cover
LUCKY HERP 150W Ceramic Heat Emitter, Reptile Heat Bulbs, Yellow Ceramic Heat Lamp for Reptiles, Amphibian, Chicken, Dog, Cat (2-Pack)

The LUCKY HERP Ceramic Heat Emitter is a reliable and efficient heat source for your reptiles, amphibians, chickens, dogs, and cats. This 2-pack of yellow ceramic heat lamps provides sufficient heat without emitting light, ensuring it doesn't disturb your pet's sleep. The heat emitter heats up quickly, reaching the desired temperature in just 4 minutes. Made of thick special ceramic material, it is sturdy and durable, lasting up to 10,000 hours. The heat emitter is easy to install in a standard E26 lamp base, and the safety instructions recommend a distance of more than 30cm from reptiles. In case of any broken bulbs, LUCKY HERP offers an unconditional refund.

What We Like
Effective heat source
Durable ceramic construction
Silent operation
Suitable for reptiles and amphibians
Easy installation
What We Don't Like
Potential overheating issues
Inconsistent performance reported
#TOP 7

BOEESPAT 150W Reptile Heat Lamp Bulbs

2023091811
Pack of 2/ Black
150 Watts
BOEESPAT 150W Reptile Heat Lamp Bulbs Cover
BOEESPAT High Efficiency 150W Reptile Heat Lamp Bulbs, Pack of 2 Ceramic Heat Emitters for Reptile Geckos, Lizard, Iguana, Bearded Dragon & Pets Basking (Black, 150 Watts)

The BOEESPAT Heat Lamp Bulbs provide an efficient heat source, ensuring your reptiles and small pets enjoy a natural sun-like warmth without disrupting their environment. With a lifespan of up to 15,000 hours, you can trust these bulbs for consistent heating day and night. They are designed to cater to various species, promoting comfort and well-being through improved healing and blood circulation. The sturdy ceramic and metal construction guarantees a safe setup, giving you peace of mind while your pets bask in their cozy habitat.

What We Like
Good price
Rapid delivery
Effective heating
Safe, no fire risk
Long-lasting
What We Don't Like
Slow to heat initially
No on/off indicator
#TOP 8

CAVACHEW 2 Pack Reptile Light Fixture

CAVACHEW
CAVACHEW-RLF-2
Black
5.5in
CAVACHEW 2 Pack Reptile Light Fixture Cover
CAVACHEW 2 Pack Reptile Light Fixture, 5.5in Deep Dome Reptile Lamp Fixture, Optical Reflection Cover, Separate Switche & Hook, Terrarium Light Fixture for Reptile Heat Basking UVB Bulbs, 100W, Black

The CAVACHEW Reptile Light Fixture offers a powerful solution for your reptiles' lighting needs. Each fixture supports bulbs up to 100W, ensuring your pets receive adequate heating and UVB light simultaneously. The deep aluminum dome effectively reflects heat and enhances brightness, promoting healthy growth for your reptiles. With independent switches and integrated hooks, installation is a breeze, allowing you to control your pets' environment easily. Plus, the heat dissipation holes help extend bulb life, giving you peace of mind about safety and longevity.

What We Like
Affordable alternative to big brands
Good heat distribution
Durable and solid material
Fits large LED bulbs
Color-changing sticker for overheating
What We Don't Like
One lamp has issues
Requires specific angle to work
#TOP 9

REPTI ZOO Infrared Heat Lamp

IFL100
White
2 Count (Pack of 1)
REPTI ZOO Infrared Heat Lamp Cover
REPTI ZOO 2 Pack Infrared Heat Lamp, 100W Reptile Heat Emitter Infrared Basking Spot Light, Red Heat Lamp for Chickens Coop Reptile Pets Brooder Use

The REPTI ZOO Heat Lamp is designed to provide consistent infrared heat for your pets, ensuring a comfortable environment both day and night without any bright light disrupting their natural behavior. With an impressive lifespan of up to 3000 hours, this heat emitter is built to last, saving you time and money on replacements. Its all-weather heating capability maintains a stable temperature in your terrarium, which is essential for your reptiles' well-being. Easy installation with a standard E26 socket means you can quickly set it up and enjoy the benefits of a reliable heat source.

What We Like
Easy to install and use
Great quality and brightness
Effective heating for reptiles
Good value for the price
Stable performance so far
What We Don't Like
Occasional quality control issues
Possible short lifespan for some bulbs
#TOP 10

REPTIZOO Reptile Light Fixture

RL04DTC
Black
5.5 Inch
REPTIZOO Reptile Light Fixture Cover
REPTIZOO Reptile Light Fixture with Dimming Thermostat, 5.5 Inch Deep Dome Lamp Fixture with Reptile Heat Lamp Bulb Temperature Controller Max 100W

The REPTIZOO Heat Lamp Fixture is designed to help you maintain the perfect temperature for your reptiles. Its dimming thermostat allows you to easily create a comfortable environment by accurately monitoring and adjusting the heat levels. The high-quality aluminum lampshade enhances the output of UVA and UVB light, essential for your pet's health. With a temperature control range from 20℃ to 50℃ (68°F to 122°F), you can ensure a stable habitat. Additionally, the fixture's safety features help prolong the lifespan of the bulb and promote a healthier living space for your reptiles.

What We Like
Effective heat regulation
Compact design
Strong and durable
Includes timer and probe
What We Don't Like
No on/off switch
Controls not well explained
Buying Guide Image

Guidelines for Choosing the Right Terrarium Heat Lamps

Introduction

If you're thinking about setting up a terrarium for your reptile or amphibian pet, you'll need to consider the type of heat lamp that's right for their needs. Choosing the right heat lamp is essential for creating a comfortable and healthy environment for your pet. In this article, we'll explain the different types of heat lamps available and provide some helpful tips for choosing the right one for your terrarium.

Types of Heat Lamps

There are several different types of heat lamps available, each designed to provide a specific type of heat for your terrarium. Here are the most common types:

  • Incandescent heat lamps: These heat lamps use a filament to produce heat and light. They are the most affordable type of heat lamp, but they also produce the least amount of heat and are the least efficient.

  • Halogen heat lamps: These heat lamps use a halogen gas to produce heat and light. They are more efficient than incandescent heat lamps and produce more heat, but they are also more expensive.

  • Ceramic heat lamps: These heat lamps use a ceramic heating element to produce heat without light. They are the most efficient type of heat lamp and produce the most heat, but they are also the most expensive.

Factors to Consider

When choosing a heat lamp for your terrarium, there are several factors you'll need to consider. Here are some of the most important ones:

  • The size of your terrarium: The size of your terrarium will determine the size and wattage of the heat lamp you need. A larger terrarium will require a larger and more powerful heat lamp.

  • The type of pet you have: Different types of reptiles and amphibians have different heat requirements. Be sure to research the specific heat requirements of your pet and choose a heat lamp that can provide the right type and amount of heat.

  • The temperature gradient: It's important to create a temperature gradient in your terrarium, with a warmer basking area and a cooler area for your pet to retreat to. Choose a heat lamp that can provide the right amount of heat for the basking area and consider using additional heat sources, such as under-tank heaters or heat pads, to create the temperature gradient.

Additional Features

When choosing a heat lamp, there are some additional features you may want to consider, such as:

  • A built-in thermostat: A heat lamp with a built-in thermostat can help maintain a consistent temperature in your terrarium and prevent overheating.

  • A dimming or pulsing feature: Some heat lamps have a dimming or pulsing feature that can mimic the natural light cycle and provide a more natural environment for your pet.

  • A UVB light: Some reptiles, such as bearded dragons, require UVB light for proper calcium metabolism and healthy growth. If your pet needs UVB light, look for a heat lamp that includes a UVB bulb.

Conclusion

Choosing the right heat lamp for your terrarium is essential for creating a comfortable and healthy environment for your reptile or amphibian pet. Consider the size of your terrarium, the type of pet you have, and the temperature gradient when choosing a heat lamp. Additionally, look for additional features, such as a built-in thermostat or a UVB light, that can provide added benefits for your pet. With a little research and consideration, you can find the perfect heat lamp for your terrarium.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can you put a heat lamp in a terrarium?

Yes, you can use a heat lamp in a terrarium. It can be placed on top of the screen lid of a glass terrarium or in receptacles built into the top of some plastic cages. However, it's important to consider the type of enclosure you're using, as not all cages can accommodate a reptile heat lamp.

2. Where do you put a heat lamp in a terrarium?

To create a focal hot spot, a heat lamp with a guard should be positioned inside the terrarium at the same end as the heat pad. It's recommended to secure a thermometer at each end of the enclosure to monitor the thermal gradient created.

3. How do you heat a terrarium without a heat lamp?

If you don't want to use a heat lamp, under-tank heating pads and heat strips are an alternative option. These can be applied under one section of the enclosure, such as an aquarium, to provide radiant heat to that specific area.

4. What is the cheapest way to heat a terrarium?

The cheapest way to heat a reptile tank is through natural sunlight. However, additional heat and light sources may be needed to ensure the appropriate temperature range for the reptile.

5. How long can a reptile heat lamp stay on for?

The duration for a reptile heat lamp to stay on may vary depending on the specific animal. As a general guideline, it is recommended to program the UVB and daytime light/heat to be on for 12 hours and then turned off for 12 hours. However, it's important to conduct research for the specific needs of your reptile.

6. Can a heat lamp sit on top of glass?

No, a heat lamp should not be placed directly on top of glass. The heat generated by incandescent heat lamps can cause glass to crack due to the expansion of the glass when heated. It is recommended to raise the heat lamp off of the glass surface by several inches, typically 6 to 8 inches, for safety.

7. How long should a reptile heat lamp stay on?

The duration for a reptile heat lamp to stay on may vary depending on the specific animal. As a general guideline, it is recommended to program the UVB and daytime light/heat to be on for 12 hours and then turned off for 12 hours. However, it's important to conduct research for the specific needs of your reptile.

Editor's Notes

During our terrarium heat lamp research, we found 24 terrarium heat lamp products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 57,241 customer reviews through our big data system to write the terrarium heat lamps list. We found that most customers choose terrarium heat lamps with an average price of $20.04.

The terrarium heat lamps are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of terrarium heat lamps, including DaToo, MCLANZOO, REPTI ZOO, Simple Deluxe, HealSmart. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 603 consumers with an average rating of 4.5.

Written by
Janie Foster Avatar

Janie Foster is a writer & pet blogger from Los Angeles, she enjoys living with her two cats and three dogs. She owned her first dog 10 years ago and then started her personal blog to record her dog's daily life. Throughout her personal life, she has developed specialized knowledge in pet care, pet nutrition, feeding habits, and more.

Terrarium Heat Lamps Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand DaToo MCLANZOO REPTI ZOO Simple Deluxe HealSmart LUCKY HERP BOEESPAT CAVACHEW REPTI ZOO REPTIZOO
Special Feature Custom Heat Source Sunset and sunrise light, reptile basking bulb High Efficiency High Efficiency, Long Lasting High Efficiency, Long Lasting Long Lasting Energy Efficient, High Efficiency, Long Lasting, Shatter Resistant Energy Efficient, High Efficiency, Long Lasting Reptile heat lamp, Save energy, Long lifespan up to 3000hours, Infrared heat emitter for reptile, No disturb reptile living Reptile Light Fixture with Dimming Thermostat
Wattage 5E+1 75 watts 100 watts 100 watts 100 watts 150 watts 150 watts 100 watts 100 Watt-hours 100 watts
Light Type Halogen Incandescent Ceramic Heat Emitter Bulb - No Light No Light No Light Fluorescent Infrared LED
Bulb Shape Size BT37 A21 - A19 BT37 A19 - - E25 -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.7
ftb score rating icon 8.5
Where to Buy