Top 7 Best UVB Bulbs For Bearded Dragons – The Ultimate Guide 2021

Just imagine that you spent hundreds of dollars on setting up a starter kit for your beloved bearded dragon, but your dragon remains inactive and unhealthy. Nothing is worse than seeing your bearded dragon unhappy. It’s just as vital to keep your pet warm and well-lit as it is to keep them fed and watered. So, to guide you, we have done detailed research on the Best UVB Bulbs for Bearded Dragons so you can pick up the best one for you!

There are many things to consider while setting up a cage for your reptile, but the most important is UVB lighting. UVB radiations encourage your beardie’s body to produce vitamin D, which causes the bearded dragon’s body to absorb and utilize calcium. Calcium levels will drop if your beardie doesn’t have enough vitamin D, which can cause metabolic problems, bone problems, and problems with female egg development.

Choosing and setting up the proper bearded dragon lights in your bearded dragon’s tank might be difficult, especially for beginners. But don’t worry, we have filtered out the 7 Best UVB Bulbs for Bearded Dragons to help you choose one that will keep your beardie healthy for years. So, without further ado, let’s dive right into our top picks so you can learn more about bearded dragon lighting!

In a hurry? Here are our Top Picks

If you don’t have a lot of time for research, you can quickly find the Best UVB Bulbs for your Bearded Dragon from our top picks! So don’t worry, and best of luck with your purchase.

Best Overall Option – Mega-Ray Mercury Vapor Bulb

Best Budget Pick – Exo Terra Repti-Glo UVB Light Bulb for Reptiles

Best Performance Pick – MyComfyPets 2-in-1 Reptile Bulb

Buying Guide

Are you on the lookout for the Best UVB Bulbs for Bearded Dragons? Or maybe you’ve heard of Mega-Ray Mercury Vapor Bulb? Evergreen’s high-quality UVB bulb isn’t an exception, either? Is the WACOOL Reptile Heat Lamp a viable option?

Well, there are a plethora of high-performance UVB bulbs on the market, making it challenging to pick the right one for you. Are you perplexed? Is making the best decision difficult? Don’t worry; our comprehensive buying guide has got you covered.

Follow the instructions below to get the best UVB bulb for bearded dragons to make them happy and healthy.

Type of Lighting

A mercury vapor bulb is ideal for your bearded dragon since it emits the full spectrum of light, including UVA and UVB rays, as well as heat for basking. Aside from that, compact fluorescent and halide lights are also viable options for your beardie’s lighting.

Temperature

As bearded dragons are desert animals, they need a much higher temperature during the daytime and moderate temperature at night. Check to see if the light you’re considering buying emits heat or not. If it does, you have to understand how to position it to use in the tank. However, if the light does not produce heat, you will need to buy a separate basking lamp to adjust the temperature.

Spectrum

Bearded dragons need a whole range of the visible light spectrum, including UVA and UVB lighting. Bearded dragons get exposed to both UVA and UVB sunlight in the wild, and they require these same levels of exposure in captivity. Therefore, to assist your bearded dragon in regulating its body functions, you must choose the best lighting for a bearded dragon that provides both radiations.

UVB radiations cause the beardie’s body to produce vitamin D, which causes the bearded dragon’s body to absorb and utilize calcium for metabolic activities.

Fixture requirement

Different bulbs may require different fixtures depending on their structure; therefore, choosing the light bulb’s proper fixture is also critical. For example, some bulbs, such as compact fluorescents, can be screwed into regular fixtures, while others require special fixtures.

Top 7 UVB Bulbs for Bearded Dragons

1.   Mega-Ray Mercury Vapor Bulb – Best Overall

Specifications

• Brand: Mega-Ray Pet Care
• Color: Clear
• Light Type: Mercury Vapor
• Wattage: 160 watts
• Controller Type: Push Button

Review

Here we have Mega-Ray Mercury Vapor Bulb at the top with a UVB output of 160 Watts. This bulb size is ideal for smaller enclosures or for placing closer to the basking location. It emits UVB light in quantities comparable to natural sunlight, as well as enough heat to serve as a basking bulb for bearded dragons.

Moreover, this bulb lasts significantly longer than other options and has a higher intensity of 160 watts. It’s also UVC-free ( UVC is ultraviolet light with wavelengths between 200 – 280 nm) because it’s self-ballasted. It’s a pricey bulb, but your money will not go wasted. With this best UVB bulb, bearded dragons’ health and activity improve noticeably.

This mercury vapor bulb is one of the most efficient and powerful bulbs available. As long as you install it in the proper location, this lamp offers a high UVB output; it also handles UVA. Buyers adore this bulb because of the meticulous packaging that protects it during shipping and Mega-Ray’s excellent customer service. Furthermore, it produces more UVB than competing bulbs.

If you require more than 100 watts for a larger tank or a tank in a cold room, this Mega-Ray Mercury Vapor Bulb, which is 160 watts, is a perfect choice.

Pros

• Emits both UVA and UVB lighting
• A best UV mercury vapor bulb
• It provides the perfect balance of visible light and infrared light
• Ideal for a variety of reptiles

Cons

• A little bit expensive than other options

2.   Mercury Vapor Bulb by Evergreen Pet Supplies – Runner Up

Specifications

• Brand: Evergreen Pet Supplies
• Light Type: Mercury Vapor
• Usage: Indoor Usage
• Wattage: 100 watts
• Light Color: Daylight White

Review

Next in our top picks is Mercury Vapor Bulb by Evergreen Pet Supplies that will undoubtedly not disappoint you in any manner. This UVB Mercury Vapor Bulb is both a UVB and a heat light. This bulb is best to suit threaded light fixture sockets. This option is what both beginners and experts are looking for.

Surprisingly, this bulb emits UVA and UVB radiations without damaging UVC, as well as enough heat to keep your basking zone approximately 90°F, depending on how far away you position it. For best effects, place this bulb 10-20 inches away from your beardie’s basking area. You can use this bulb in a tank of any size as this bulb is parabolic; however, bigger cages may require multiple lights.

Unfortunately, a dimmer is not compatible with this lamp. This bulb is a 100-watt bulb, so your fixture must be capable of handling such a large amount of light. Mercury in this bulb must be disposed of properly. An issue with this bulb is that the proportion of UVB and UVA delivered isn’t mentioned on the bulb, or packaging, so it might not be the ideal option if you’re looking for a precise number.

Pros

• Your dragon’s perfect daylight bulb
• This mercury vapor lamp provides reptiles with the essential warmth and vitamin production for the best health.
• You can use it for almost all enclosures.
• Evergreen Pet Supplies also provides usage directions

Cons

• It is not compatible with a dimmer.

3.   WACOOL Reptile Heat Lamp – Best Lighting

Specifications

• Brand: WACOOL
• Item Weight: ‎4 ounces
• Product Dimensions: ‎31 x 3.74 x 3.74 inches
• Wattage: ‎100 watts
• Power Source: ‎AC

WACOOL Reptile Heat Lamp Review

This WACOOL Reptile Heat Lamp is yet another best lighting source for bearded dragons. For UVA, UVB, and heat coverage, this reptile light bulb is an attractive choice. It should be positioned 12 inches away from the basking area for best efficacy.

WACOOL has best designed this bulb to fit standard threaded sockets and has a magnesium oxide coating to help decrease light harshness. It includes an automatic shutoff if it overheats, and it will switch back on after cooling for 15-20 minutes. This bulb can function as a heating lamp as well as a UVB and UVA lighting source.

It is less expensive than a mega-ray mercury vapor bulb. This bulb can be readily mounted and performs best in various bearded dragon cages by covering the entire tank base, providing UVB and UVA light to your bearded dragon. Unfortunately, this bulb only has a 6000-hour life expectancy, so you will need to replace it every six months or so.

Pros

• It’s possible to use it as a heat light
• Standard threaded sockets are compatible
• Enhances reptile hunger and stimulates reptile reproduction
• Promotes vitamin D3 synthesis
• When it overheats, it shuts off due to incorporated thermal protection

Cons

• It contains mercury and must be disposed of in a specific manner
• It has a lifespan of only 6000 hours

4.   Exo Terra Repti-Glo 10.0 UVB Light Bulb for Reptiles – Best Affordable

Specifications

• Brand: EXO-TERRA
• Light Type: Fluorescent
• Indoor/Outdoor Usage: Indoor
• Wattage: 26 watts
• Light Color: White

Exo Terra Repti-Glo 10.0 UVB Light Bulb for Reptiles Review

As a reptile owner, you have to pay more money for its habitat to want everything within your budget. Exo Terra Repti-Glo UVB Light Bulb for Reptiles is a cost-effective UVB light source for your bearded dragon.

Moreover, this bulb gives UVA and reptile UVB lights for your bearded dragon, meeting all of their needs. This bulb is both more durable and long-lasting than some fluorescent lights. This fluorescent UVB bulb is simple to install and fits low-wattage fluorescent and incandescent lights.

Amazingly, the UVB output is comparable to that of a desert environment. Because there are fewer clouds, lower humidity, and no plants or trees to give shade, desert places receive more direct sunshine than any other. As a result, desert reptiles get more exposure to UV lights than other reptiles. You can use this bulb to assure UVB penetration in screened terrariums or those with dense screen covers. The size and self-ballasting properties of this UVB lighting are two advantages. You can use this bulb to make a combined light source for your reptile pet.

Pros

• Maintains the fitness and health of your reptile
• A full spectrum light reptile bulb
• Great value for money
• Built-in reflectors
• Simple to install
• Easy on/off switch

Cons

• Not for large-sized tanks

5.   MyComfyPets 2-in-1 Reptile Bulb – Best Performance

Specifications

• Brand: MyComfyPets
• Light Type: Mercury Vapor
• Wattage: 100 watts
• Item Weight: 0.51 Pounds

MyComfyPets 2-in-1 Reptile Bulb Review

If you want a light source for a large tank, this MyComfyPets 2-in-1 Reptile Bulb option is perfect for you, and it’s a mercury vapor lamp, so it can also function as a heat source.

This UVB bulb for bearded dragons does not emit UVC radiation. However, it does emit sufficient UVA, UVB, and heat. As it’s rated for 10,000 hours of use, you’ll probably need to replace it in a year. Due to parabola form, you can use it in tanks of any size; however, big tanks may require many lights. Also, as the light is 100 watts, your fixture must be capable of handling such a high-wattage light.

For the best health of your beloved bearded dragon, this self-ballasted mercury vapor bulb regulates itself and does not emit UVC radiation harmful to the skin. Also, it allows calcium absorption through vitamin D3 production and aids hunger and activity to promote metabolic activity. This bulb keeps your dragon happy, healthy, and active all the time. You can easily mount this bulb with any standard screw fitting.

Pros

• Reasonable Price
• Self-ballasted mercury vapor bulb
• 10,000 Hour Lifespan
• Efficient performance
• Standard threaded light fittings are compatible with this product

Cons

• MyComfyPets has not mentioned the percentage of UVB and UVA emitted.

6.   LUCKY HERP UVA UVB Reptile Light 10.0 – Best Protection

Specifications

• Brand: LUCKY HERP
• Unique Feature: Instant On
• Light Type: CFL (compact fluorescent light)
• Wattage: 23 watts
• Light Color: White

LUCKY HERP UVA UVB Reptile Light 10.0 Review

If you are not satisfied with our picks mentioned above, don’t worry; here’s another excellent alternative for you: the LUCKY HERP UVA UVB Reptile Light 10.0 with a spiral shape. This brand has always offered pet owners the broadest range of products, all with outstanding quality. If you’re looking for a bulb that emits both UVA and UVB light for a bearded dragon, this option will suffice.

It provides 10% UVB lighting in a compact form, making it an excellent choice for reptile lovers. Moreover, this lamp is suitable for hood and dome lighting setups. Also, this lamp emits 30% UVA while remaining cool so that it won’t raise the temperature in your aquarium. UVA lighting can help your reptile feel better, eat more, and be more active.

Furthermore, you can mount it vertically or horizontally without sacrificing performance because of the bulb’s spiral shape. It fits into any standard threaded socket. Replace this bulb every six months to preserve UVB efficacy. Don’t touch this bulb with your bare hands. Your hands’ oils will harm the bulb, decreasing its life and possibly shattering it.

Pros

• Ideal for all desert dwelling reptiles
• 10% UVB and 30% UVA output
• No harmful UVC output
• Best for reptiles to produce Vitamin D3 and calcium

Cons

• Avoid touching it with bare hands when it is on

7.   DGE Reptile Basking Spot Bulb – Best for Multiple Tanks

Specifications

• Brand: DGE
• Special Feature: Dimmable
• Light Type: Incandescent
• Wattage: 100 watts
• Light Color: Warm White

DGE Reptile Basking Spot Bulb Review

In the end, we have DGE Reptile Basking Spot Bulb in our top picks. This UVB light bulb for your bearded dragon can serve multiple vertical or horizontal tanks. A 100-watt mercury vapor lamp emits UVB lighting to promote your bearded dragon’s metabolic rate and activities so that they remain active and happy.

This bulb is ideal for tanks up to 36 inches in diameter and is best for use in terrariums and vivariums alike. Sounds good, right? You can use it for bearded dragons of any age, and it is especially beneficial to youngsters due to the enhanced UVB output, which promotes healthy growth and development. It has the potential to endure up to 2000 hours, if not more.

One of the best features of this UVB bulb is that you can use it for all reptiles, including bearded dragons, geckos, snakes, turtles, tortoises, lizards, frogs, spiders, and small mammals. As the surface temperature is extremely high, please do not touch it directly while using it. Replace the bulb every 9 to 12 months to ensure efficacy.

Pros

• Ideal bulb for establishing the terrarium’s necessary warm zones
• Reasonable Price
• Bearded dragons in their juvenile stages will benefit significantly from this UVB bulb.
• Efficient coverage
• Practical design

Cons

• Not a long-lasting bulb against other options in our top picks

Frequently Asked Questions

How much UVB does a bearded dragon need?

It is critical to know bearded dragon UVB requirements for their best health. You should keep the UVB lights on for 12-14 hours per day for your bearded dragon. The amount of light exposure during the day and night can differ. Using a timer is the most effective way to achieve proper light cycles.

What lights do bearded dragons need?  

The most popular light sources in the pet world are fluorescent bulbs and mercury vapor lights. Use high ultraviolet (UVA and UVB) light bulbs to imitate UV light in an indoor enclosure effectively. During the spring and summer, a full spectrum ultraviolet light source is best for 12-14 hours every day, and during the autumn and winter, 8 hours.

UV rays can’t penetrate through glass or plastic, so avoid covering between the bulb and the bearded dragon. One light bulb of 100 watts is enough to heat any bearded dragon tank unless the tank is particularly huge, which requires two bulbs.

How long do UVB bulbs last?

UVB lights lose their efficacy even if they still emit visible light. This is because UVB output decreases over time in all bulbs. Mostly, UVB bulbs last for about 6 to 12 months, depending on the type. But it would be best if you could replace fluorescent UVB bulbs every six months for their best performance.

Do bearded dragons need UVA?

Bearded dragons are native to deserts, so they need natural sunshine to remain healthy and active, and natural sunlight releases both UVA and UVB. UVA radiation is beneficial for your bearded dragon’s health, stimulation, and hunger. Therefore, both UVA and UVB should be there for bearded dragons’ best health.

Can you use a regular light bulb for a bearded dragon? 

Bearded dragons require bright white light to stay active and healthy. A basking bulb that produces bright, clear visible light is best for them. Moreover, you can use ordinary household light bulbs to illuminate Bearded dragons. A yellow hue is common in household bulbs. It is preferable to use lights that have a white or daylight-like color. Many of the basking lamps use an incandescent bulb, which contributes to the environment’s heating.

How to hang UVB light in the tank?

The bearded dragon UVB light set up in the tank is much accessible. You only need to purchase a couple of hooks and attach them to the back of your tank to mount the UVB fixture inside. Then, all that’s left is to hang your fixture on the hooks and switch it on.

The Bottom Line

When it comes to bearded dragons, UVB light is a critical component of the lighting. Now that you’ve learned a little more about each of the finest UVB lamps for bearded dragons, all you have to do is choose your favorite! You should be able to select a UVB bulb based on the age of your bearded dragon and the size of its tank.

To avoid scorching or injuring your bearded dragon, make sure to modify the timings of UVB illumination. We have mentioned the seven Best UVB Bulbs for Bearded Dragons for you. Regardless of their cons, one out of the 7 products listed above will definitely meet your needs. Finally, here comes the winner of our research!

The Mega-Ray Mercury Vapor Bulb is at the top with a UVB output of 160 Watts. This bulb size is ideal for smaller enclosures or for placing closer to the basking location. It emits UVB light as well as enough heat to serve as a basking lamp. Take the time to think about your purchase, and your bearded dragon will thank you!