When I started meddling with bearded dragons, I had to buy everything manually. Don’t lose your time like I did!
I made this guide to give you detail of the best bearded dragon habitat and starter kits to make your life easier and your bearded dragon comfier. Read more to find out!
This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links.
A Quick Glance of My Top Picks For Bearded Dragon Starter Kits
Here’s the list of the top three (3) bearded dragon terrarium kits I thought to be the best and most effective:
- Zoo Med Desert UVB & Heat Lighting Dual Kit: WINNER – It has two (2) dome lamps that can house both the heating and lighting bulbs.
- Exo Terra Rainforest Habitat Kits: Best Bearded Dragon Kit For Beginners – Great ventilation and airflow; front window and top doors.
- Zilla Tropical Reptile Vertical Starter Kit: Best Comprehensive Bearded Dragon Starter Kit – Can hold a consistent temperature level within the tank.
- Zoo Med Laboratories SZMNTB21 Reptihabitat: Best Budget-Friendly Bearded Dragon Terrarium Kit – The digital thermometer is easy to install and set up.
- Zilla’s Desert Reptile Terrarium Kit: Most Versatile Bearded Dragon Starter Kit – The temperature and humidity gauge does not work properly.
Don’t have time? Here is a quick comparison of our favorites!
5 Best Bearded Dragon Terrarium Kits (Review & Buying Guide)
When they first came out, I thought to myself, “I need to try those,” and so did I.
That’s how I came up with this list. I tried everything and I’ll give you all the details you need to know about each of them, so you know what to get for yourself.
1. Zoo Med Desert UVB & Heat Lighting Dual Kit: WINNER
I consider Zoo Med’s Desert UVB & Heat Lighting Dual Kit to be the best kit for beardie owners because it offers high-quality heat, UVB radiation and lighting.
The package came with bulbs and a dual dome for placing the bulbs. Here are some features I loved, which I’m sure you’ll do too.
Features of the Zoo Med Desert UVB & Heat Lighting Dual Kit
It’s an all-in-one heat and lighting kit for the metabolism and development of your adult or baby bearded dragons. It contains a light bulb and a basking spot lamp that emits UVB radiation.
UC Davis Veterinary Medicinesays that UVB rays [1] are required for the maintenance of bearded dragons.
“Ultraviolet B is required to maintain bearded dragons. The best source of UVB is the sun, but special UVB bulbs that contain no less than 5% can be used, too.”
It’s a perfect start if you don’t want problems with the heating or basking of your beardies because it has everything that you need!
What Are the Dimensions of the Zoo Med Desert UVB & Heat Lighting Dual Kit?
The product dimensions of the total package are 11 x 7.5 x 6.1 inches.
Benefits of Using Zoo Med’s Desert UVB & Heat Lighting Dual Kit
- It has two (2) dome lamps that can house both the heating and lighting bulbs.
- An on/off switch is included for convenience and ease of use.
- Made of true European blue glass without any coating.
- The bulb is a double reflector, which gives 35% more heat and light.
- It does not burn out easily.
Drawbacks of Using Zoo Med’s Desert UVB & Heat Lighting Dual Kit
- It doesn’t come with the bearded dragon glass tank.
- The bulbs cut off in and out — they flicker.
- The dome lamps fit perfectly, but the lights last only for a short time.
Is Zoo Med’s Desert UVB & Heat Lighting Dual Kit For You?
Among the most important elements in a bearded dragon tank setup are the temperature gradient and lighting, and if you’re just a newbie dragon keeper, I recommend this bearded dragon starter kit.
I can guarantee that you’ll be able to keep your dragon healthy by providing the correct humidity and temperature level within the tank.
It may not have the glass tank itself, but it has everything you need to properly maintain the temperature, humidity and atmosphere inside the tank.
User Reviews on Zoo Med’s Desert UVB & Heat Lighting Dual Kit
Lauren C, an Amazon customer, said that this was the perfect lighting she needed for her pet iguanas.
“Perfect dual light for my pet iguanas! I love the fact that each light has a different power source, it’s great for beginners!”
Where Can I Buy It?
The Zoo Med Desert UVB and Heat Lighting Dual Kit package is available on Amazon and Walmart.
Here’s a quick video discussing the interiors of the Zoo Med Desert UVB & Heat Lighting Dual Kit.
- Kit gets you started on your own desert habitat.
- Includes a Mini Combo Deep Dome Lamp Fixture, Repti Basking Spot Lamp and ReptiSun Mini Compact Fluorescent.
- Includes dual on/off switches for greater convenience.
- Each socket rated up to 100 watts.
- Made in the USA.
READ MORE: What Kind of Wood is Safe for Bearded Dragons?
2. Exo Terra Rainforest Habitat Kits: Best Bearded Dragon Kit For Beginners
What I loved about Exo Terra’s rainforest habitat kits is the fact that it comes with glass terrariums, which you can freely choose from.
There are small size and medium-sized tanks that can cater to the beginner type of support you’re looking for. Here are some of the features of Exo Terra Rainforest Habitat Kits.
Features of the Exo Terra Rainforest Habitat Kit
The package features a small to medium-sized spacious glass tank. This dimension is perfect for a single baby bearded dragon.
The two (2) or dual front doors allowed me to easily access my pet beardie, but it never felt short of ventilation, too.
Mariah Healey, a professional reptile specialist and consultant, says that the recommended minimum size for a tank is 120 x 60 x 60 cm for an adult bearded dragon [2].
“A bearded dragon terrarium needs to be big enough to provide enough spaces for exercise, as well as to facilitate a proper temperature gradient.”
Apart from this, I really enjoyed the metal screen for ventilation, as well as a 3D rock background that looks like a rainforest. It also has items that can improve the look of your bearded dragon tank setup.
What Are the Dimensions of the Exo Terra Rainforest Habitat Kit?
The Exo Terra Rainforest Habitat Kit’s product dimensions are 18.5 x 19 x 25 inches and weigh about 24 pounds.
Benefits of Using Exo Terra’s Rainforest Habitat Kit
- It’s easygoing and convenient to use (for first-time users).
- Great ventilation and airflow; front window and top doors.
- It has a sturdy and durable top lighting system.
- It can house all different reptile species — it’s extremely versatile and flexible.
- It includes a food dish, a water dish, accessories and a background for decoration.
Drawbacks of Using Exo Terra’s Rainforest Habitat Kit
- Insects could crawl inside the tank through the hinge at the back.
- You’ll need to purchase a separate set of heating sources.
- The metal screen at the top of the tank is fragile.
Is Exo Terra’s Rainforest Habitat Kit For You?
If you’re looking for a great-quality bearded dragon starter kit that has all the necessities your beardie needs, go for the Exo Terra starter kit.
The only thing I found it to be lacking was the heat source — it had lighting, but the level of heat was insufficient for the need of my baby bearded dragon.
Nevertheless, it includes the tank, the ventilation window, the decors and more! It’s easy to install, you don’t need to worry about expertise and experience!
User Reviews on Exo Terra’s Rainforest Habitat Kit
Michluck, an Amazon client, said that this was the kit she was looking for. “It’s easy to clean and has a wide floor space for my two (2) crested geckos. The food dishes are magnetic and easy to navigate!”
Where Can I Buy It?
You can purchase the Exo Terra Rainforest Habitat Kit from Amazon or straight from Exo Terra’s website!
Want a more comprehensive review of the Exo Terra Rainforest Habitat Kit? Check this video out!
- Full glass terrarium ideal for snakes, frogs, lizards and geckos
- Dual front doors for an escape-free access
- Unique front window ventilation; Full metal screen for top ventilation
- Compact top lighting system
- Includes all necessary decoration items, substrate, water dish, jungle vines, jungle rope and care guide
3. Zilla Tropical Reptile Vertical Starter Kit: Best Comprehensive Bearded Dragon Starter Kit
The Zilla brand is known for its wide range of products for reptile husbandry, but one of their products I consider the best is the Zilla Tropical Reptile Vertical Starter Kit.
It’s an all-in-one reptile terrarium kit that has everything you need in starting herpetoculture. I consider it one of the best because of its comprehensiveness and the offers that it has.
I fell in love with Zilla’s Tropical Vertical Terrarium Kit when I found out about the many different features the package is offering.
Features of the Zilla Tropical Reptile Vertical Starter Kit
The dragon tank includes a hinged lid, which allows better and easier access whenever I need to adjust something inside it.
I also loved the powder-coated finish of the tank, minimizing rust, scratches and breakage possibilities.
Overall, the kit included a natural rock background, coconut husk bedding/substrate, digital thermometer, humidity gauge, a food dish and a water dish and even a guide!
If you’re a beginner, Zilla’s Tropical Reptile Vertical Starter Kit is the one for you!
What Are the Dimensions of the Zilla Tropical Reptile Vertical Starter Kit?
The overall tank size or the dimensions of the package is 16 x 16 x 22 inches, with a weight of 16.75 pounds.
Benefits of Zilla’s Tropical Reptile Vertical Starter Kit
- It’s equipped with a 5″ deep water and airtight bottom.
- The front part has a locking pin and latch.
- Has a rock background (foam material).
- Complete with a mini halogen dome with bulb.
- Can hold a consistent temperature level within the tank.
Drawbacks of Zilla’s Tropical Reptile Vertical Starter Kit
- You can’t use it for large and heavy reptiles.
- There are a lot of gaps in the tank, which allow insects to escape and get out of the tank.
- The terrarium’s size is smaller in person than what’s advertised.
Is Zilla’s Tropical Reptile Vertical Starter Kit For You?
The Zilla Tropical Reptile Vertical Starter Kit is perfect for a starting dragon keeper. It’s a great place where you can store baby dragons or reptiles, even juveniles.
You’ll find that it’s complete with all the accessories and the support items you need, which can save you a lot of time and effort.
User Reviews on Zilla’s Tropical Reptile Vertical Starter Kit
Elena, an Amazon customer, said that the kit had the best tank she can have for her frogs! “They’re easy to clean and it’s the perfect size for my frogs’ table and branch. I would recommend it to frog owners.”
Where Can I Buy It?
The Zilla Tropical Reptile Vertical Starter Kit is available on Amazon. You can also buy it at Walmart.
Check this video out for a clearer vision of what the starter kit looks like.
- A perfect habitat for your small arboreal reptile or amphibian
- Front opening door allows for easy access
- Hinged lid allows for additional access and the powder coated screen resists rust
- 5" Deep water tight bottom allows for unique water features or the perfect mini paludarium
- Kit Includes:12"x12"x18" Glass Front Opening Terrarium, Rock Like Foam Background, Front Locking Latch and Locking Pin, Hinged Screen Top, Mini Halogen Dome with Bulb, Coconut Husk Bedding, Humidity and Temperature Gauge, Feeding Dish, and Setup Guide
- Not recommended for iguanas, monitors or large sized reptiles
- Ships with reinforced packaging to protect product
4. Zoo Med Laboratories SZMNTB21 Reptihabitat: Best Budget-Friendly Bearded Dragon Terrarium Kit
If you’re on a budget but you want to secure a starter kit that has all the support you need, then Zoo Med’s Reptihabitat beardie kit is what you might be looking for.
At first, I fell confused as to the type of Reptihabitat I’ll be purchasing because there are a lot. Don’t worry, though, if you’re as confused as I was, I’ll give you multiple buying options below.
I didn’t think of it as something that’s complete and comprehensive, but when the package came, I was delighted that it had everything I wanted and needed for my dragons.
The kit was complete with everything I needed — from the glass tank, the lighting components, the bedding, thermometer, and others all for a cheap and affordable price!
Features of the Zoo Med Laboratories Reptihabitat
It’s packed with all the parts and components that’ll help you in nurturing your bearded dragon. Yes, it includes a 20-gallon tank equipped with a sliding top.
It also has a compact fluorescent light, a basking spot lamp and an infrared heat lamp to maintain nighttime temperatures.
It’s the perfect size for a juvenile beardie, even a regular-sized dragon. If you’re not sure how to set it up, the package includes a booklet that holds a couple of guides about maintaining beardies.
What Are the Dimensions of the Zoo Med Laboratories Reptihabitat?
Zoo Med’s Reptihabitat for bearded dragons is sized 35.83 x 18.11 x 18.11 inches, weighing 18.11 pounds in total.
Benefits of Using Zoo Med Laboratories’ Reptihabitat
- It has a competitive price compared to other brands.
- It’s equipped with a compact 5.0 UVB bulb for your reptile.
- The digital thermometer is easy to install and set up.
- It has a booklet with instructions on how to use and set up the bearded dragon starter kit.
- The sliding screen top gives you larger and easier access to your pet reptile.
Drawbacks of Using Zoo Med Laboratories’ Reptihabitat
- It’s not compatible with adult or larger-sized dragons.
- The mesh top was flimsy — it was worn down pretty quickly.
- The tank isn’t as durable as other people reported.
Is Zoo Med Laboratories’ Reptihabitat For You?
As an experienced dragon keeper, I would recommend getting the Zoo Med Reptihabitat if you’re starting as a pet reptile owner and you plan on breeding.
Not only will you get almost everything you need with your bearded dragon starting kit, but you’ll also learn a lot of things about maintaining and caring for your beardies.
I was able to enjoy the value that it gave, considering the cheap and affordable price it has.
User Reviews on Zoo Med Laboratories’ Reptihabitat
Jan Barnowski, an Amazon customer, expressed his satisfaction. He says that he loved the product, “everything we expected it to be and very easy to set up.”
Where Can I Buy It?
You can purchase the Zoo Med Reptihabitat on Amazon and Pet Smart. You can get it straight from Zoo Med’s website, too!
Here’s an unboxing of the Zoo Med Laboratories’ Reptihabitat so you get a better idea of what it is!
- Zoo Med Laboratories Reptihabitat 20 long Beard Dragon Starter Kit
- The kit includes a 20-gallon terrarium and heating and lighting components to create optimal conditions for your scaly pal
- Start your bearded dragon off right with this Zoo med reptihabitat bearded dragon housing kit
5. Zilla Desert Reptile Terrarium Starter Kit 10 (ECOM): Most Versatile Bearded Dragon Starter Kit
When I first checked it, I never thought of it as being special until the package came. I felt the difference and the edge it has on other starter kits.
I loved the simplicity and the minimalistic look of Zilla’s Desert Reptile Terrarium Kit. It’s comprehensive, as it contains all the needed parts and components in assembling a bearded dragon tank setup.
Here are some features of Zilla’s Desert Starter Kit.
Features of the Zilla Desert Reptile Terrarium Starter Kit 10 (ECOM)
The liner of the terrarium is rated to be waterproof and odor-proof. It’s also coated with a biodegradable enzyme, making it abrasive and scratchproof.
It also features a humidity level gauge and thermometer for better monitoring of these inside the terrarium. I never had a problem with the temperature gradient, thanks to the gauge!
The tank has a mesh screen on top, which helps heat and light the interior of the tank.
Whether you’re a dragon keeper like me, a lizard enthusiast, or if you’re interested in caring for and maintaining your desert reptile friend, I’d suggest Zilla’s Desert Reptile Terrarium Starter Kit.
What Are the Dimensions of the Zilla Desert Reptile Terrarium Starter Kit 10 (ECOM)?
Zilla’s Desert Reptile Terrarium Starter Kit 10 is sized 23.75 x 14.5 x 17.75 inches. The total package weighs 17 pounds in total.
Benefits of Using Zilla’s Desert Reptile Terrarium Starter Kit 10 (ECOM)
- It wouldn’t have a buildup of bad odors.
- The floor space of the tank is vast and big, providing excellent room for your pet reptile.
- It’s equipped with a flexible and sturdy reptile carpet, which depicts a desert setup.
- The packaging has a guide of instructions on how to properly set up and use the kit.
- It has a complete set of lighting and heating sources.
Drawbacks of Using Zilla’s Desert Reptile Terrarium Starter Kit 10 (ECOM)
- The bedding is not enough to fill in the floor’s entire space.
- It’s not an ideal starter kit for large reptiles.
- The temperature and humidity gauge does not work properly.
Is the Zilla Desert Reptile Terrarium Starter Kit 10 (ECOM) For You?
If you own a small-to-medium-sized bearded dragon and you’re looking for an all-around type of bearded dragon starter kit, Zilla’s Desert Reptile Terrarium Kit is just right for you!
I loved the idea that it has a mechanism that would prevent the buildup of bad and unpleasant odors, as well as the flexibility and versatility of the tank.
You’ll never worry about nurturing or growing your baby dragons to be juvenile or young adults.
User Reviews on Zilla’s Desert Reptile Terrarium Starter Kit 10 (ECOM)
An Amazon customer with the username Hike Northern California said that the product was of good quality.
“I purchased the desert setup for my nephew’s gecko and I was surprised that it was easy to put together. We’re happy with the quality and how the product turned out to be.”
Where Can I Buy It?
The Zilla Desert Reptile Terrarium Starter Kit 10 is available on Amazon and Walmart.
Here’s a quick look at the Zilla Desert Basic Reptile Terrarium Kit.
- Ideal habitat for small desert-dwelling animals
- Terrarium Liner is odor-fighting, non-abrasive and treated with a biodegradable enzyme
- Glass tank is Made in the USA
- Desert Reptile Starter Kit includes: 2 Reflective Domes for heat and light; Night Black Incandescent and White Spot Bulbs; Screen Cover; Humidity/Temperature Gauge; Brown Terrarium Liner and Setup Guide
- Does not include UVB lighting which may be required for some desert-dwelling reptiles
Looking for the best 120 gallon enclosure for your bearded dragon? Our review of ‘120 gallon bearded dragon enclosure‘ covers all the options and can help you make an informed decision for your scaly companion’s home. Check it out!
What Do You Need in a Bearded Dragon Enclosure?
In choosing between multiple bearded dragon starter kits, what you want to see in a comprehensive kit includes a heating source, a bedding/substrate, food and water dishes, a thermometer/gauge, and others.
The sole purpose of getting a bearded dragon starter kit is to help you set it up easily and conveniently. Generally, you want the following items below to be included in your bearded dragon starter kit.
(Credit above picture to Cassie Kunkel.)
Ensure That it Has a Heat Source
One thing I wish I knew before I started was the fact that heat is a major factor in keeping dragons healthy.
Samantha Keat, an expert from Avian & Exotic Veterinary Care, says that bearded dragons rely on the heat/temperature of the environment to regulate their body heat [3].
“Bearded Dragons are ectothermic, meaning they rely on their environment to regulate their body temperature.”
Make sure that the kit you’re going for has heat and light sources, so you don’t need to purchase them separately.
CHECK: How Long Can My Bearded Dragon Be Out of His Tank?
Look For One That Has a Bedding or Substrate
While it’s not really necessary, a bedding/substrate would be helpful if you’re starting to be a dragon keeper. This will serve as the base or the bottom part of the tank where your beardie lives.
I usually go with beardie terrarium kits with a reptile carpet, wooden chips, sand, or safe alfalfa pellets.
EXPERT NOTE: Avoid using substrates or beddings that have rough and sharp edges as they can wound or hurt your dragon.
Having a Food Dish and a Water Dish Would Be Good
You don’t want your beardies to be short on food and water, right? So, having a water or a food dish with whatever they need will be an excellent start to your journey of being an expert dragon keeper.
Purchasing a starter kit that has both food and water dishes is good because you don’t have to measure or check if it will fit the tank properly.
Check If There’s a Thermometer and a Humidity Level Gauge
Last, but most definitely not least, is to ensure that the starter kit you’ll be purchasing has a thermometer or a humidity gauge.
This will be your key in making sure that your bearded dragon gets the correct amount of heat, light and humidity it needs to survive and develop.
I usually recommend reptile enthusiasts to find bearded dragon starter kits that have all these, but it will really depend on what type of environment you’re aiming for.
So long as the kit has what you think you need, then go for it.
FAQs
You may have additional concerns and questions about bearded dragon starter kits. So, I’ve assembled a few of the most asked questions around it.
What Comes in a Bearded Dragon Starter Kit?
A bearded dragon kit would need to have heating and lighting fixtures, food and water dishes, bedding/substrate, mesh vent cover, a thermometer, and a humidity gauge.
This is enough to jumpstart your dragon keeper journey.
What is the Best Heat Lamp For a Bearded Dragon?
The best heat lamp for bearded dragons would be those that can produce the necessary heat to aid digestion and to provide sufficient vitamin D for reptiles.
Which Bearded Dragon Terrarium Kit Will You Go for?
Choosing a good-quality bearded dragon terrarium kit is a necessity in dragon keeping, especially if you’re starting.
I’ve listed the best five (5) starter kits I’ve tried and used. Take your pick and find out which among these bearded dragon essentials will work best for you!
- Kit gets you started on your own desert habitat.
- Includes a Mini Combo Deep Dome Lamp Fixture, Repti Basking Spot Lamp and ReptiSun Mini Compact Fluorescent.
- Includes dual on/off switches for greater convenience.
- Each socket rated up to 100 watts.
- Made in the USA.
What are your favorite bearded dragon terrarium kits? Please share with us below!
References
- 1. Gardiner J. Bearded Dragon Care [Internet]. Animal Health Topics / School of Veterinary Medicine. 2019. Available from: https://healthtopics.vetmed.ucdavis.edu/health-topics/exotics/bearded-dragon-care
- 2. Healey M. Bearded Dragon Enclosure Size & Cohabitation [Internet]. ReptiFiles®, LLC. [cited 2022 Feb 19]. Available from: https://reptifiles.com/bearded-dragon-care/bearded-dragon-terrarium-size/#:~:text=A%20bearded%20dragon%20terrarium%20needs
- 3. Keat S. Bearded Dragons Natural Habitat [Internet]. 2013. Available from: https://www.avianexoticvetcare.com/handouts/reptiles/bearded-dragons.pdf
Alina Hartley is a small-town girl with a ginormous love of bearded dragons. It all started with Winchester, a baby bearded who was abandoned at the shelter by his former owners because of a birth defect that caused one front leg to be shorter than the other. Alina originally went to the shelter looking for a guinea pig, but one look at Winchester and it was love at first sight. From that day on, Alina has dedicated her life to learning everything she can about bearded dragons. She loves helping new beardie parents start their incredible journey with these magnificent reptiles.
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