The 10 Best Thermostats For Reptiles

Medically reviewed by Medically reviewed by: Mike Corcoran, DVM, DABVP (R/A), CertAqV
Reptiles & Amphibians May 6, 2022
Written by | Updated Mar 8, 2024
Share Email Pinterest Linkedin Twitter Facebook
thermostats

author:

The 10 Best Thermostats For Reptiles

This page contains affiliate links. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post through our independently chosen links, which earn us a commission. Learn More

 

thermostats

Reptiles are some of the most interesting animals on the planet and each of them is completely unique. From color-changing chameleons to brightly colored snakes, reptiles make wonderful pets.

The thing to remember with pet reptiles, however, is that their needs are much different from a dog’s or cat’s. Reptiles are ectothermic, so part of your job in keeping a reptile as a pet is making sure it stays warm. Many reptiles also require a humid environment, so you’ll need to navigate that challenge as well.

In this article, we’ll talk about the importance of humidity for pet reptiles and provide some tips for choosing the best reptile thermostat to track it. You’ll also see our top 10 picks for the best reptile thermostats and hygrometers.

We highly recommend looking at the comparison table we have below where we highlighted the features of each product. You’ll also find more detailed information about each product later in the article.

Compare Best Thermostats For Reptiles

Overall Best
iPower GLHTMTCONTROL 40-108 Degrees Fahrenheit Digital Heat Mat Thermostat

1. iPower GLHTMTCONTROL 40-108 Degrees Fahrenheit Digital Heat Mat Thermostat

Runner Up
BN-LINK Digital Heat Mat Thermostat Controller

2. BN-LINK Digital Heat Mat Thermostat Controller

Best Affordable
VIVOSUN Digital Heat Mat Thermostat Temperature Controller

3. VIVOSUN Digital Heat Mat Thermostat Temperature Controller

Bayite Temperature Controller BTC201 Pre-Wired Digital Outlet Thermostat

4. Bayite Temperature Controller BTC201 Pre-Wired Digital Outlet Thermostat

WILLHI WH1436A 10A Temperature Controller 110V Digital Thermostat Switch Sous Vide Controller NTC 10K Sensor Improved Version

5. WILLHI WH1436A 10A Temperature Controller 110V Digital Thermostat Switch Sous Vide Controller NTC 10K Sensor Improved Version

Jump Start JumpStart MTPRTC Digital Controller Germination Heat Mat Thermostat

6. Jump Start JumpStart MTPRTC Digital Controller Germination Heat Mat Thermostat

Aiicioo Digital Thermostat Reptile Heating Pad

7. Aiicioo Digital Thermostat Reptile Heating Pad

SensorPush Wireless Thermometer/Hygrometer

8. SensorPush Wireless Thermometer/Hygrometer

Fluker's Thermo-Hygrometer

9. Fluker's Thermo-Hygrometer

Zoo Med Dual Analog Thermometer and Humidity Gauge

10. Zoo Med Dual Analog Thermometer and Humidity Gauge

Brand
iPower
Brand
BN-LINK
Brand
VivoSun
Brand
Bayite
Brand
WILLHI
Brand
HydroFarm
Brand
Aiicioo
Brand
SensorPush
Brand
Fluker’s
Brand
Zoo Med
Type
Digital
Type
Digital
Type
Digital
Type
Digital
Type
Digital
Type
Digital
Type
Digital
Type
Digital
Type
Digital
Type
Analog
Features
Wide temperature range
Features
Rugged, plug-in operation
Features
Wide temperature range, hang tab
Features
2-stage, outlet
Features
Pre-wired outlet, simplified platform
Features
ETL-certified
Features
Wide range, easy operation
Features
Wireless, accurate
Features
Affordable price, digital display
Features
Attaches to cage, easy to read

What To Look For In Thermostats For Reptiles?

Reptiles are ectothermic animals which essentially means that they are unable to internally regulate their own body temperatures. This being the case, they rely on the ambient temperature to keep them warm – this is why reptile cages need to be heated. For many reptiles, humidity is just as important as heating because many reptiles come from tropical and sub-tropical climates. If you plan to keep a reptile as a pet, you’ll probably need a thermostat to monitor the temperature and a hygrometer to monitor the humidity.

Here are some important things to look for in reptile thermostats and hygrometers:

  • Digital vs Analog – Digital thermostats are more accurate than analog models, but they still require calibration. You should double-check your readings to test the accuracy of the unit.
  • Ease of Operation – The simplest thermostats offer easy 3-button operation, but the more advanced units may take some getting used to.
  • Control Range – The control range is the temperature range the unit is capable of controlling. Some units have wider ranges than others, but most range from about 70°F to 100°F
  • Programming – For more advanced units, you may be able to control the device to switch on and off at different temperatures or time intervals.

Our Top Picks For The Best Thermostats For Reptiles

Now that you have a better idea what to look for in a reptile thermostat, it’s time to start shopping! Keep reading to see our top 10 picks for the best reptile thermostats and hygrometers.

Overall Best
1.

iPower GLHTMTCONTROL 40-108 Degrees Fahrenheit Digital Heat Mat Thermostat

Product Info

  • Brand: iPower
  • Type: Digital
  • Features: Wide temperature range
Pros
  • Professional reliability and digital performance
  • Wide range for temperature, 40°F to 108°F
  • Easy plug-in operation and LED indicator
Cons
  • Only designed to turn off heaters at set temperature
If you’re looking for a thermostat that delivers professional reliability, the iPower 40°F -108°F Degrees Digital Heat Mat Thermostat is a good option. This digital heat mat thermostat provides constant customized temperature monitoring with a wide range of 40 to 108. It also features LED indicator lights.
Runner Up
2.

BN-LINK Digital Heat Mat Thermostat Controller

Product Info

  • Brand: BN-LINK
  • Type: Digital
  • Features: Rugged, plug-in operation
Pros
  • Rugged construction for durability
  • LED power and heating indicator lights
  • Easy plug-in operation and 3-button interface
Cons
  • Accuracy may fade over time, check often
Another affordable option that delivers consistent performance is the BN-LINK Digital Heat Mat Thermostat Controller. This plug-in thermostat controller features handy LED heating and power indicator lights so you can easily see the controller’s status day or night. It also has a rugged construction and a grounded plug for safety.
Best Affordable
3.

VIVOSUN Digital Heat Mat Thermostat Temperature Controller

Product Info

  • Brand: VivoSun
  • Type: Digital
  • Features: Wide temperature range, hang tab
Pros
  • Wide temperature range 68 to 108
  • Zero-effort setup and 3-button operation
  • Comes with hanging tab and wall mount
Cons
  • Can only be used with one unit
  • Accuracy may fade over time
Different species of reptile require different temperatures, so if you’re looking for a thermostat with a wide temperature range, the VIVOSUN Digital Heat Mat Thermostat Temperature Controller is a good option. It runs from 68 to 108 and delivers professional reliability and results. Plus, it is easy to use with zero-effort setup and operation using just three simple buttons.
4.

Bayite Temperature Controller BTC201 Pre-Wired Digital Outlet Thermostat

Product Info

  • Brand: Bayite
  • Type: Digital
  • Features: 2-stage, outlet
Pros
  • Can be used as a cooling or heating device
  • Pre-wired double outlet included
  • All-in-one with easy programming
Cons
  • Requires some programming to use
  • In rare cases, some units have defective auto-start
If you don’t mind spending a little more, the Bayite Temperature Controller Digital Outlet gives you some unique benefits. On top of being a dual-stage heating and cooling thermostat it also comes with a pre-wired outlet so you don’t lose outlet space.
5.

WILLHI WH1436A 10A Temperature Controller 110V Digital Thermostat Switch Sous Vide Controller NTC 10K Sensor Improved Version

Product Info

  • Brand: WILLHI
  • Type: Digital
  • Features: Pre-wired outlet, simplified platform
Pros
  • Pre-wired outlet so you don’t lose outlet space
  • Simplified operation, easy to use
Cons
  • Only has one pre-wired outlets (some models have 2)
  • For humidity control, order model WH1436H
If you like the idea of a thermostat that doesn’t waste outlet space, the WILLHI WH1436A Temperature Controller Digital Thermostat is another great option. It only comes with one pre-wired outlet but the thermostat itself is worth the sacrifice. It has a simplified operation platform with wider control range than average and an enhanced waterproof sensor probe.
6.

Jump Start JumpStart MTPRTC Digital Controller Germination Heat Mat Thermostat

Product Info

  • Brand: HydroFarm
  • Type: Digital
  • Features: ETL-certified
Pros
  • Only ETL certified thermostat on the market
  • LED indicator light and digital controls
  • Wide controllable range 68°F to 108°F
Cons
  • Slightly more expensive than similar models
  • Some units arrived defective
If you don’t mind spending a little more, the Hydrofarm MTPRTC Controller Thermostat is the only ETL-certified thermostat on the market so you know you can trust it. It has a wide controllable range of 68°F to 108°F and features digital controls with handy LED indicator lights.
7.

Aiicioo Digital Thermostat Reptile Heating Pad

Product Info

  • Brand: Aiicioo
  • Type: Digital
  • Features: Wide range, easy operation
Pros
  • Affordably priced under $20
  • Digital interface with easy operation
  • Wide controllable range 68°F to 108°F
Cons
  • May not be as accurate as pricier models
  • Some units did not last as long as expected
Another affordable option in thermostats for reptiles is this Aiicioo Heat Mat Thermostat Controller. It features an easy-to-read digital display and a wide controllable range 68°F to 108°F. It also has handy LED indicator lights and simple 3-button operation.
8.

SensorPush Wireless Thermometer/Hygrometer

Product Info

  • Brand: SensorPush
  • Type: Digital
  • Features: Wireless, accurate
Pros
  • Swiss-made components to ensure accuracy
  • Wireless, connects to smartphones for alerts
  • Monitors both temperature and humidity
Cons
  • Not specifically designed for reptile cages
  • Smartphone app takes time to learn
  • Doesn’t control temperature or humidity, only acts as a monitor
Though it may not be specifically designed for use in reptile cages, the SensorPush Wireless Thermometer Hygrometer is an excellent option to consider. Because it is wireless, you can monitor temperature and humidity levels from your smartphone – you can even set up alerts. It has a powerful range up to 325 feet and is super-accurate with Swiss-made components for reliable measurements.
9.

Fluker's Thermo-Hygrometer

Product Info

  • Brand: Fluker’s
  • Type: Digital
  • Features: Affordable price, digital display
Pros
  • Affordably priced under $10
  • Simple to operate and consistent results
  • Dual thermometer and hygrometer
Cons
  • Humidity sensor less accurate than temperature reading
  • Not as durable as some models
  • Doesn’t control temperature or humidity, only acts as a monitor
If you don’t want to spend a small fortune on a thermostat, the Fluker’s Digital Thermometer Hygrometer for Reptiles is a good option. Affordably priced under $10, this dual thermometer hygrometer is quick and easy to use. It may be simple, but it works well and gets the job done.
10.

Zoo Med Dual Analog Thermometer and Humidity Gauge

Product Info

  • Brand: Zoo Med
  • Type: Analog
  • Features: Attaches to cage, easy to read
Pros
  • Monitors both temperature and humidity
  • Attaches easily to the side of the cage
  • Affordably priced under $10
Cons
  • May not be as accurate as digital thermostats and hygrometers
  • Doesn’t control temperature or humidity, only acts as a monitor
Some reptiles prefer to have different temperature zones in their tank which makes it tricky to monitor temperature and humidity. If you’re looking for an easy and affordable way to monitor different tank temperatures, try this Zoo Med Economy Analog Dual Thermometer Humidity Gauge. This thermometer and humidity gauge attaches easily to the side of the tank for easy viewing and the gauges are clear and easy to read. Plus, the Velcro backing enables you to move or remove the unit easily.

Tips For Maintaining Heat And Humidity A Reptile Cage

Because reptiles can’t regulate their own body temperatures, they rely on their caretakers to keep their cages nice and warm and humid. Most reptiles require a constant temperature between 70°F and 85°F, typically with a hotter basking area around 100°F, sometimes more. The specifics vary from one species to another, but many reptiles also require a humidity of 30% to 50% for many snakes or as high as 80% to 90% for some lizards. You’ll need to research the species you plan to keep,

Here are some simple tips for maintaining a reptile cage:

  • Choose a cage that is properly ventilated but also keeps in the heat and humidity to the proper degree – full-screen cages may not work for very high humidity reptiles.
  • Add a large water dish to the cage, ideally at the bottom so the water evaporates and increases the humidity as it rises. There are some species variations regarding water access and bowl size, so research this before set-up.
  • Mist your cage with room-temperature water at least twice a day using a handheld spray bottle – mist the entire enclosure including the animal, walls, decorations, and substrate.
  • Choose the right substrate that will help retain warmth and humidity – dry products hold little moisture while bark or other natural substrates hold more.
  • Keep track of the heat and humidity in your enclosure using a thermostat or hygrometer so you will know when the humidity starts to drop, and you need to take action.

Now that you know the basics about increasing and maintaining heat and humidity in your reptile cage, you’re ready to start shopping for equipment. Remember, temperature and humidity are the two most important elements to keeping your reptile healthy, so don’t skimp!

Final Remarks

Though every reptile is unique, many species have similar requirements when it comes to their captive environment. On top of providing your pet reptile with adequate space and a healthy diet, you may also need to monitor the temperature and humidity. Having a heating and humidifying system in place is the first step, but you also need to be able to monitor and adjust those systems – that’s why you need to invest in a high-quality thermostat or hygrometer.

If you’re still not sure where to start in looking for a reptile thermostat or hygrometer, try out one of the top 10 best reptile thermostats we’ve reviewed above. Good luck!

Was this article helpful?
Let us know what you think.

Kate Barrington is avid pet lover and adoring owner of three cats and one dog, her love for animals has led her to a successful career as a freelance writer specializing in pet care and nutrition. She has been writing about pet care and pet products since 2010
Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *