5 Best Reptile Thermometers

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There are many different types of thermometers that you can buy to monitor the temperature in your reptile’s habitat. In this article, we will discuss which type is best for each situation as well as what features make a thermometer better or worse. Finally, we will talk about what you should look for when buying a thermometer.

Exo Terra Thermometer for Reptile Terrarium, PT2465

The Exo Terra Thermometer makes it easy to monitor the environmental conditions in your reptile’s terrarium so you can ensure that it stays within its ideal body temperature range. This thermometer comes equipped with both Celsius and Fahrenheit readings, as well as an easy-to-read analog dial display. It also has an adhesive dot so you can mount it on smooth surfaces quickly and easily.

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Zoo Med Economy

With Zoo Med’s Economy, you can easily monitor both parameters from one unit! The handy Velcro backing makes removal for cleaning or relocation a breeze. Don’t let your animals suffer – get them the Zoo Med Economy today!

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Zoo Med Repti Temp Digital Infrared Thermometer

Whether you’re monitoring thermal gradients, basking sites, incubation temperatures, or hibernation conditions, this handy little thermometer will make the process a breeze. The Repti Temp can be set to read temperatures in both Fahrenheit and Celsius and also has a Min/Max function to track fluctuations in your terrarium over time. Best of all, it comes with batteries included!

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Exo Terra Infrared Thermometer

Simply point the infrared thermometer towards the object and with a click on the button, you’ll have the temperature displayed on the large, easy-to-read digital display. The infrared thermometer can be used to determine the temperature of basking sites, hiding caves and shelters, hibernation temperatures, incubation media, your reptile’s body temperature or any other application where precise temperatures are required. Whether you’re at home or out in the field, this handy tool will make taking temperatures quick and easy.

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Zilla Terrarium Digital Thermometer

The thermometer keeps track of maximum and minimum temperatures in a range from 23°F to 122°F (-5°C to +50°C), while the reptile hygrometer reads relative humidity from 30% to 90%. Separate probes with 57″ lead wires provide accurate positioning for measurement, so you’ll always have the most accurate data. Plus, the clock with alarm and calendar makes it easy to keep track of time – even when you’re busy taking care of your scaly friend!

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Buyer’s Guide

Why Do You Need a Reptile Thermometer?

There are many reasons why you need a reptile thermometer:

• To measure the ambient temperature of your reptile’s enclosure. This is important to ensure that your reptile is kept in a comfortable environment with temperatures within the optimal range for their species.
• To monitor the temperature of your reptile’s food. This is necessary to avoid digestive problems caused by serving food that is either too hot or too cold.
• To monitor the temperature of your reptile’s basking area to ensure that it is always within the desired range for their species.
• Thermometers are also very useful in monitoring sick or injured reptiles, which often require different temperatures from healthy ones. It takes just a second to check the current temperature and change things accordingly.

As you can see, there are many good reasons to have a reptile thermometer!

Reptiles are ectothermic animals, which means that their body temperature depends on the ambient (or surrounding) temperature. To keep your reptile healthy and comfortable, it is important to monitor the temperatures in their enclosure and adjust them as necessary. A good reptile thermometer is an essential piece of equipment for any reptile owner!

Reptile Thermometer Types

There are three main types of reptile thermometers: digital, analog, and infrared.

Digital thermometers usually have an LCD screen and give an accurate reading in seconds. They’re popular because they’re easy to use and very reliable. Moreover,  many digital thermometers come with a variety of features, such as the ability to set an alarm or record maximum and minimum temperatures.

Analog thermometers usually have a needle that swings to show the current temperature. They can be less accurate than digital ones, but they do offer a more traditional way of reading temperatures. In addition, analog thermometers are usually very affordable and easy to use.

Digital infrared reptile thermometers detect the thermal radiation (heat) your pet emits, which provides a quick reading of their body temperature. They’re quite accurate, but they can’t be used if you have an acrylic tank because these cannot transmit infrared signals through them. Moreover, don’t use them to measure the temperature of your house, as they’re not intended for this.

Digital infrared thermometers are very popular because they’re easy to read and hassle-free since you don’t need any batteries or special cords. However, analog ones can be a better option if you want an accurate reading without spending too much money on something you’ll only use occasionally.

Digital thermometers are the most common type available nowadays, but this does not mean that analog and infrared ones can’t be used to measure reptile temperatures. In fact, if you have a budget under $20 or prefer reading an analog rather than a digital temperature readout, then choosing an analog reptile thermometer is a great option.

No matter which type of reptile thermometer you choose, make sure to take the time to calibrate it before each use. This is a quick and easy process that just requires heating up or cooling down the thermometer until its reading matches that of a known temperature source (like a stove burner).

Things to Look Out for in A Good Reptile Thermometer

So, what is the best reptile thermometer? There are many different types of thermometers on the market, so it can be difficult to decide which one is right for you. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a reptile thermometer:

Reptile Species

If you are wondering what temperature should be maintained for certain reptiles, then this will give some idea:

A) Bearded Dragon (76°-88° F): The ideal body temperature for bearded dragons is about 88 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate lower temperatures but should not be allowed to get too cold as this will affect their health and appetite.

B) Ball Python (80°-90° F): Ball pythons are best kept at steady temperatures of 80 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Too much variation in temperature can be stressful on these nocturnal reptiles, as they prefer a cooler environment while sleeping and basking during the day.

C) Corn Snake (77°-81 °F): These are not tropical snakes, so they do best in a hotter environment. It is recommended that you keep your corn snake at about 77 to 81 degrees Fahrenheit for good health and activity levels as well as shedding properly.

D) Leopard Gecko (80°-85 °F): The ideal temperature for leopard geckos is about 80 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. For those of you who are raising baby leopard geckos, it is recommended that the reptile cage be kept at a warmer temperature until they reach adulthood when their bodies will adapt to cooler temperatures better.

E) Green Iguana (78°-86 °F): The ideal range for green iguanas is 78 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit. It is important to keep their environment within this temperature range so they can properly digest their food and remain healthy.

F) Red-Eared Slider (72°-90° F): These little turtles need a water temperature between 72 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. As with all reptiles, it is important to have your red-eared slider’s habitat at the appropriate temperatures so they can live healthy lives and remain active as you enjoy their company.

G) Tortoises (75°-85 °F): The bottom of the shell should be kept at around 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. It is important that you keep your tortoise’s home at this temperature range so they can digest their food and remain healthy. I recommend keeping a lamp on for about 12 hours per day with a UVB light that is good for 12-14 hours per day.

Knowing what the ideal temperatures are for various reptile species will help you to create an environment in which they can thrive. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature and keep your reptiles healthy and happy!

Thermometers come in all shapes and sizes, so it is important that you find one that is best suited for your needs.

Temperature Range

Reptiles need a specific environment to maintain their health and well-being. This includes the correct temperature range. A thermometer is an essential tool for keeping track of the temperature in your reptile’s habitat, so you can make sure it stays within the optimal range.

The next factor to consider when purchasing a reptile thermometer is the temperature range. Some thermometers only measure up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit or so, while others can measure up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Make sure you get a thermometer that will be able to measure the correct temperature in your reptile’s environment.

Reptiles need different temperatures depending on the species and age. For example, hatchling bearded dragons must have a warm environment in order to grow properly. On the other hand, adult corn snake only needs around 80 degrees Fahrenheit while they’re sleeping at night.

The temperature range is important because not all thermometers can measure the full temperature range that your reptile needs to stay healthy. Usually, the wider the temperature range you get, the more expensive it is. You should find a thermometer that’s within your budget and that covers the correct temperature range for your pet.

Accuracy

Another key factor is the accuracy of the thermometer. It is important because you want to be able to trust the reading, so you can make the most informed decision for your pet. You wouldn’t want to have a large temperature difference between your reptile’s internal body temp and what you are reading on the thermometer!

The most accurate way to check out how accurately something reads temperatures would be by using a Thermocouple, which can be easily bought online or at electronics stores.

However, most people do not have Thermocouples lying around their house and are not willing to spend the extra money on one just checking the temperature of their reptile’s enclosure. So what is an acceptable level of inaccuracy for a thermometer that you will be using regularly?

One way to determine the acceptable level of inaccuracy for a reptile heat bulb or basking light would be to know how much each degree matters. This information can easily be found online – just search something like “how much does temperature matter in reptile enclosure”.

If you are using a thermometer to measure the ambient temperature of your home, then it is important that it be as accurate as possible since each degree could mean life or death for your pet.

Accuracy can vary between brands, but the most accurate reptile thermometers typically read within 0.25°C of actual temperatures.  

The least expensive ones tend to be at about +-0.50°C which is acceptable for measuring room temperature or heat bulb temperatures. 

Material

One more consideration that is important for finding the best reptile thermometer is the material it is made of. The most common options are glass and metal, but there are also plastic thermometers available.

• Glass is a good choice because it is durable and can be easily cleaned. It is also easy to read from a distance. On the other hand, glass does not hold onto heat and this can cause problems for it when used as a reptile thermometer because of the high-temperature differences in terrariums.
• Metal is also a good choice if you want something that will be more accurate and reliable. It is also more resistant to water and moisture, so it is a good choice if you have a pet that likes to get wet. The one downside is that it cannot be cleaned as easily, so the thermometer could become very dirty over time.
• Plastic thermometers are the cheapest option, but they are not as accurate or reliable as glass or metal thermometers. They can also be difficult to read, and they may not last as long.

Some materials are more resistant to water and moisture than others, so it is important that you choose the right material for your pet. Glass will be better if you have a reptile that likes to swim in its tank, while metal or plastic could be good choices if your pet spends most of the time out of the water.

Glass thermometers are generally easier to read than metal thermometers, but metal thermometers are more reliable and accurate. Choose the material that is best suited for your pet’s needs.

Ease of use

The next important feature of a reptile thermometer is how easy it is to use. You’ll want something that’s simple and does not need too much work when you’re taking readings for your reptiles’ habitat or vivarium.

The first thing you should think about is if you need celsius or Fahrenheit. If you’re in the United States, then chances are you’ll need to stick with Fahrenheit thermometers.

Some thermometers have a remote probe that you can place in the habitat, while others require you to stick the thermometer directly into the habitat. Make sure to choose one that is easy for you to use.

If it’s a wireless remote, make sure that the batteries do not need to be changed often and are easy to replace.

Some thermometers have an LCD display while others may only show numbers on a digital screen. Choose one that you would find easier to read in low light conditions or at night time when there is little light so your reptile is not disturbed.

If you’re looking for a digital thermometer, be sure to get one with an automatic backlight so you can see the readings clearly. Some reptile thermometers even have a memory feature so you can track your temperatures over time and see how they are changing.

The best reptile thermometers are those that have an easy-to-read display, as well as buttons or switches that are easy to operate. Some also come with a built-in probe so you can take readings without having to disturb your reptiles.

In addition, you’ll want a thermometer that’s easy to store and doesn’t take up too much space.

Maintenance is another concern that you’ll want to take into account when choosing a reptile thermometer. Some thermometers require frequent cleaning, while others can be left alone for a while without needing to be cleaned.

So if you’re going to be reading the thermometer often, make sure that it’s easy to read and does not require too much effort on your part.

Power source

Another point to consider is the power source of the thermometer. The most common ones are batteries, but there are also electronic models with a USB cable included for example that you can plug into your laptop or computer and use without having to worry about their battery life.

The thing is that not all reptile owners have an extra USB slot available on their laptop or computer and it’s better to have a thermometer that works with batteries.

The latter ones are also useful if you want to measure the temperature of your pets from time to time but do not plan to leave them in their habitats for long periods.

If you plan to leave the thermometer in your pet’s cage for long periods, you should think about a model that uses batteries because electronic models might waste battery life even when not used.

Battery life is especially important if you plan to use the thermometer for long periods. In this case, it’s better to choose models that feature an automatic shut-off option when not used for some time.

Thermometers with battery life indicators are also useful as they let you know how much power is still left in the batteries so you can replace them when needed.

Some battery-operated thermometers have a backlight which can be very helpful when taking the temperature of your pets at night.

There are also models that come with a stand, so you can place them on a flat surface or in your pet’s habitat without having to hold them all the time.

If you’re looking for a cheap and easy-to-use reptile thermometer, you should consider buying one that runs on batteries.

On the other hand, if you want more options or are willing to spend some extra money, an electronic model with a USB cable is definitely what you need.

Durability

The last but certainly not least feature of the best reptile thermometers is durability. It is important that you get a thermometer that will last for many years without breaking down. This can be achieved by getting one made from high-quality material and with great craftsmanship, as well as checking to make sure it comes with excellent warranty coverage.

A good thermostat must be durable and have a long lifespan, after all, it will most likely spend its life measuring temperature in your pet’s terrarium or tank. This is why you should look for a thermometer that comes with at least an extended warranty and guarantees the accuracy of its readings.

The best reptile thermometers are usually constructed using high-quality materials such as stainless steel, glass, or plastic. They are also very easy to clean because they don’t have many small parts which could get lost or dirty.

Durability also depends on the type of thermometer you are looking to buy. For instance, some are more sensitive than others and therefore can break easily if they fall or get hit by something else in the terrarium.

Durability will also depend on how you plan to use the thermometer. If you are just going to be using it occasionally, then you don’t need to worry as much about it breaking. However, if you will be constantly taking it in and out of the terrarium or tank, then you should definitely go for a more durable model.

In addition, a thermometer that is placed too close to the heat source in your pet’s tank can overheat and break. It is best if you take into account all these factors before buying one!

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FAQ

How many thermometers does a bearded dragon need?

A bearded dragon needs one thermometer per enclosure.

Are reptile thermometers accurate?

Yes. Reptile thermometers have been tested and proven to be accurate within a reasonably small range of temperatures for most animal types, including reptiles.

How can I keep my bearded dragon warm at night?

Bearded dragons are cold-blooded and do not need to be kept warm at night. You should make sure the temperature is still between 70-80 degrees F during the day for your bearded dragon’s safety, but no additional heat source is needed or recommended.

How can I keep my reptile from getting too hot?

Reptiles can’t perspire, so you need to provide a way for them to cool down if they get too hot. This can be done by providing a shady spot in the enclosure and/or using a fan to blow air over the animal. You should also mist the animal with water regularly to help evaporate heat from their skin.

Useful Video: Thermometer Guide for Reptiles: The Best Types of Thermometers for Reptiles & How to Use them

Final Thoughts

Now you know what to look for when purchasing a thermometer. Remember to not just look at the listed temperature range, but also how accurate it is according to user reviews and what animal you’re measuring.

You should always make sure that your pet’s cage can maintain proper temperatures as well. You’ll want to get an infrared heat lamp or ceramic heater if necessary so that you can keep the temperature at a safe level.

Take a look at the best reptile thermometers listed above and find the one that will work best for you and your pet!

I hope this article was helpful to you in choosing the best reptile thermometer for your pet’s needs! Make sure to check out our blog for more tips on keeping your pet happy and healthy!

If you have any questions, feel free to leave them below and I’ll be happy to help answer them. Thanks for reading!