The 5 Best UVB Bulbs for Chameleons
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With their ability to change colors at will, chameleons are amazing creatures. As amazing as they are, however, they can also be a challenge to keep as a pet due to their temperamental personalities and specific care requirements.
One aspect of chameleon care that can be particularly tricky is finding the right lighting. Chameleons need both UVA and UVB light. UVB is particularly important because it helps the chameleon absorb vitamin D which they can then convert into calcium.
In this article, we’ll talk about lighting for pet chameleons and provide some tips for choosing the best UVB bulbs for chameleons. You’ll also see our top 5 picks for the best chameleon UVB bulbs.
At a Glance: Best UVB Bulbs for Chameleons To Buy
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 Chameleon UVB Bulb
Overall Best
![]() 1. Evergreen Pet Supplies 100 Watt UVA UVB Mercury Vapor Bulb |
Best Vapor Lamp
![]() 3. Exo Terra Solar-Glo High-Intensity UV/Heat Mercury Vapor Lamp |
Best Terrarium Lamp
![]() 4. Exo Terra Repti-Glo 5.0 Compact Fluorescent Terrarium Lamp |
Best Basking Spot Lamp
![]() 5. Repti Zoo Full Spectrum UVA + UVB Mercury Vapor Basking Spot Lamp |
|
Lighting Type
Mercury vapor |
Lighting Type
Fluorescent |
Lighting Type
Mercury vapor |
Lighting Type
Compact fluorescent |
Lighting Type
Mercury Vapor |
Watts/Rating
100 watts |
Watts/Rating
10.0 UVB, 39 watts |
Watts/Rating
125 or 160 watts |
Watts/Rating
13 or 26 watts |
Watts/Rating
100 and 160 watts |
Features
Self-ballasted, produces heat |
Features
Stronger output, brighter light |
Features
Self-ballasted, full-spectrum |
Features
Compact size, affordable price, high output |
Features
Self-ballasted, full-spectrum |
What To Look For In Uvb Bulbs For Chameleons?
Choosing the right cage for your chameleon is important because these reptiles have specific needs. Because they are arboreal, they need lots of vertical space to climb. On top of that, they need proper heat, humidity, and lighting.
When it comes to lighting your chameleon cage, you’ll need to include UVB as well as UVB lighting and that requires a special bulb.
Here are some important things to look for in chameleon UVB bulbs:
- Type – There are many different types of lighting available for pets, but four types work best for pet reptiles: compact fluorescent, metal halide, linear fluorescent, and mercury vapor. Each type has its benefits, and some are more expensive than others.
- Fixture – On top of purchasing UVB bulbs for your chameleon, you’ll need a light fixture to mount them. When shopping for UVB bulbs, consider the type of fixture required and purchase according to the type of lighting you’ve decided on.
- Rating – Light bulbs for reptiles are rated for the percentage of radiation emitted in the UVB range – it generally scales from 1% to 10%, so choose the rating that is appropriate for the chameleon species you’re keeping.
- Size – On top of choosing the right percentage rating for your chameleon cage, you’ll also need to choose a bulb the right size. Consider the type of fixture you have and the type of cage you have to determine where you can mount the fixture for the greatest benefit.
Now that you have a better idea what to look for in a chameleon UVB bulb, it’s time to start shopping! Keep reading to see our top 5 picks for the best chameleon UVB bulbs.
The Top 5 Best UVB Bulbs for Chameleons
Here are our top 5 picks for the best chameleon UVB bulb:
Evergreen Pet Supplies 100 Watt UVA UVB Mercury Vapor Bulb

Product Info
- Lighting Type: Mercury vapor
- Watts/Rating: 100 watts
- Features: Self-ballasted, produces heat
- Excellent source of UVA, UVB, and heat
- Self-ballasted for safety (no UVC rays)
- Compatible with all types of enclosures
- Percentage UVA and UVB is not listed on the package
- May not produce as much heat as expected
Zoo Med ReptiSun 10.0 UVB T5 HO Lamp

Product Info
- Lighting Type: Fluorescent
- Watts/Rating: 10.0 UVB, 39 watts
- Features: Stronger output, brighter light
- Provides full-spectrum light and UVB
- Stronger UVB and brighter light than standard
- Recommended by zoos and veterinarians
- Produces minimal heat, separate basking area required
- Requires a separate 36-inch hood for mounting
Exo Terra Solar-Glo High-Intensity UV/Heat Mercury Vapor Lamp

Product Info
- Lighting Type: Mercury vapor
- Watts/Rating: 125 or 160 watts
- Features: Self-ballasted, full-spectrum
- Available in 125 or 160 watts
- Full-spectrum with UVA and UVB rays
- Self-ballasted for safety (no UVC rays)
- Some bulbs may not last as long as others
Exo Terra Repti-Glo 5.0 Compact Fluorescent Terrarium Lamp

Product Info
- Lighting Type: Compact fluorescent
- Watts/Rating: 13 or 26 watts
- Features: Compact size, affordable price, high output
- High output of UVB rays in two wattages
- Very affordable price tag
- Compact size fits well in most standard fixtures
- Not a source of heat, separate basking area required
- May not last as long as some brands
Repti Zoo Full Spectrum UVA + UVB Mercury Vapor Basking Spot Lamp

Product Info
- Lighting Type: Mercury Vapor
- Watts/Rating: 100 and 160 watts
- Features: Self-ballasted, full-spectrum
- Provides UVA, UVB, and heat source
- Self-ballasted to prevent UVC rays
- Available in two wattages, 100 and 160
- May not last as long as some brands
Tips For Lighting A Chameleon Cage
Chameleons are arboreal creatures, so they require a cage that is taller than it is wide to accommodate branches for climbing. They also need the cage to be kept warm and humid with several areas for basking.
On top of heat, humidity, and basking areas, you also need to provide the right lighting. Chameleons require proper lighting to be able to absorb the calcium that keeps their bones strong.
Here are some simple tips for lighting a chameleon cage:
- Choose a fluorescent bulb that provides both UVA and UVB light – keep in mind that most broad-spectrum bulbs do not produce UVB light.
- Consider which type of lighting to choose. Fluorescent lights don’t produce heat, so they can’t also function as a basking lamp. Mercury vapor bulbs do, but they are expensive.
- Place the lighting in a way that your chameleon will get the exposure it needs while leaving room for natural daylight to enter.
- Keep the lighting system on a cycle with 10 to 12 hours of exposure per day.
- Pay attention to the lifetime of the bulbs you purchase – they may lose strength over time, so swap them out as recommended.
To determine the best lighting system for your chameleon, you need to research the species you plan to keep and find out that species’ requirements. This will help you choose the right type of lighting system as well as the proper rating for your UVB bulbs.
Now that you understand the basics of lighting a chameleon cage, you can see how UVB lighting fits in. Choosing the right UVB bulb is important because your chameleon won’t get what it needs without one.
Final Remarks
Chameleons make wonderful pets, but they can also be fairly challenging to keep. On top of choosing a cage with the right dimensions, you also need to provide for your chameleon’s needs for proper temperature, humidity, and lighting. When all of these things come together, you’ll have a happy and healthy chameleon. Don’t forget about UVB lighting!
If you’re still not sure where to start in looking for a chameleon UVB bulb, try out one of the top 5 best chameleon UVB bulbs we’ve reviewed above. Good luck!