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Best Reptile Habitat Starter Kits
Updated November 2021
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BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. Read more  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.Read more 
Bottom line
Pros
Cons
Best of the Best
Exo Terra Rain Forest Habitat Kit
Exo Terra
Rain Forest Habitat Kit
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Bottom Line

A high-quality tank that includes everything you need to get started. Perfect choice for small snakes, lizards, and frogs.

Pros

We loved that the Exo Terra tank was spacious and well-ventilated. The dual front doors make access to the tank simple and secure. Kit comes with all the accessories you need to get started. The foam back and rope vines provide quality climbing options for small, active reptiles.

Cons

Sits at a higher price point than its competitors.

Best Bang for the Buck
Zilla Reptile Starter Kit
Zilla
Reptile Starter Kit
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Bottom Line

A well made tank that doesn't break the bank. A perfect choice for owners of small snakes.

Pros

We were pleasantly surprised at the durability of the top screen. It is thick and able to support the included lamps with ease. Comes with both a daytime and nighttime lamp. Also includes a humidity and temperature gauge, which we found helpful.

Cons

The included light bulbs burn out quickly. We suggest purchasing some backups.

Zilla Tropical Reptile Vertical Starter Kit
Zilla
Tropical Reptile Vertical Starter Kit
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Bottom Line

An easy to assemble, well manufactured tank. Ideal for frogs and crested geckos.

Pros

Assembly of this tank is simple and fast. The large front glass door opens wide, making cleaning the tank a breeze. Features top lighting system. The screen top latches securely to the tank so there is no fear of your little critter escaping.

Cons

The included water dish was quite small – may be too shallow.

Zoo Med ReptiBreeze Open Air Screen Cage
Zoo Med
ReptiBreeze Open Air Screen Cage
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Bottom Line

A quality choice for someone interested in raising reptiles.

Pros

The screen is sturdy but lightweight. We love how the bottom slips out for easy cleaning. While it's a quality choice for reptiles, the Zoo Med ReptiBreeze would work well for butterflies, too. It makes an excellent environment for raising baby reptiles.

Cons

Assembly was confusing and decorative items were not included.

Aqua Culture 10 Gallon Aquarium Starter Kit
Aqua Culture
10 Gallon Aquarium Starter Kit
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Bottom Line

The perfect choice for beginners. Ideal for reptiles, turtles, or fish.

Pros

Our favorite part of the Aqua Culture kit was the included food sample. Included lighting is of good quality and easy to use for newcomers. Basking platform provides a lovely area for turtles to lounge and soak up the heat. The screen top locks in securely as well.

Cons

The included filter was not the best, so you may want to purchase a better one separately if using the tank for fish.

HOW WE TESTED

We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.

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30
Models
Considered
211
Consumers
Consulted
16
Hours
Researched
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Keeping reptiles as pets takes a lot of supplies, and a reptile habitat starter kit is the perfect purchase for novices or anyone planning to own a new reptilian pet. In addition to a sturdy glass tank, a kit contains components such as a heat source with bulbs, thermometer, secure lid, reptile food, bowls, and terrarium decor like bottom cover and objects for for reptiles to climb. It’s important to keep in mind that each kit is different, so you will have to purchase additional items if you choose a less comprehensive option. In addition, take the size of your pet – and how large it is expected to grow – into consideration and compare the tank sizes in the kits your are considering before you choose.

Our Top Picks
Exo Terra
Best of the Best
Exo Terra
Rain Forest Habitat Kit
Bottom Line
A high-quality tank that includes everything you need to get started. Perfect choice for small snakes, lizards, and frogs.
Shop Now
Zilla
Best Bang for the Buck
Zilla
Reptile Starter Kit
Bottom Line
A well made tank that doesn't break the bank. A perfect choice for owners of small snakes.
Shop Now
Zilla
Top Pick
Zilla
Tropical Reptile Vertical Starter Kit
Bottom Line
An easy to assemble, well manufactured tank. Ideal for frogs and crested geckos.
Shop Now
Zoo Med
Top Pick
Zoo Med
ReptiBreeze Open Air Screen Cage
Bottom Line
A quality choice for someone interested in raising reptiles.
Shop Now
Aqua Culture
Top Pick
Aqua Culture
10 Gallon Aquarium Starter Kit
Bottom Line
The perfect choice for beginners. Ideal for reptiles, turtles, or fish.
Shop Now