Exo Terra Compact Top Canopy
The Exo Terra Compact Top Canopy earns its spot for hobbyists who want an integrated, aquarium-style single-lamp fluorescent solution that blends into planted or bioactive terrariums; its built-in reflector and streamlined fit make it visually neater and easier to mount than clamp-style fixtures. Compared with the higher-output T5 hood from Zoo Med, the Compact Top is more cost-effective and aesthetically finished for display enclosures, while offering better protection and light diffusion than a basic clamp lamp like Fluker's.
Space-saving profile
Even light spread
Space-saving profile
Even light spread
Review Summary
"Well-built compact canopy that fits Exo Terra glass tanks, easy to install and provides tidy, consistent lighting; users note limited space for larger bulbs and moderate light output compared with larger hood units."
Mini sunroof vibe
All-in-one top canopy sized for small to medium terrariums with integrated reflector.
Mini sunroof vibe
All-in-one top canopy sized for small to medium terrariums with integrated reflector.
Increased Safety & Security
Time-Saving Convenience
Recreational Enjoyment
The Exo Terra Compact Top Canopy earns its spot for hobbyists who want an integrated, aquarium-style single-lamp fluorescent solution that blends into planted or bioactive terrariums; its built-in reflector and streamlined fit make it visually neater and easier to mount than clamp-style fixtures. Compared with the higher-output T5 hood from Zoo Med, the Compact Top is more cost-effective and aesthetically finished for display enclosures, while offering better protection and light diffusion than a basic clamp lamp like Fluker's.
Space-saving profile
Even light spread
Mini sunroof vibe
All-in-one top canopy sized for small to medium terrariums with integrated reflector.
Compatible with fluorescent and compact lamps and provides ventilation for heat control.
Space-saving profile
Even light spread
Mini sunroof vibe
All-in-one top canopy sized for small to medium terrariums with integrated reflector.
Compatible with fluorescent and compact lamps and provides ventilation for heat control.
$40-80 USD
Zoo Med Reptisun T5 HO Terrarium Hood
The Zoo Med ReptiSun T5 HO Terrarium Hood is the technical leader when high UVB irradiance from a single fluorescent lamp matters — its T5 high-output design delivers stronger UVB per watt, making it the preferred choice for UV-demanding reptiles. Though typically pricier than slimline or T8 fixtures, its biological performance outpaces the Exo Terra T8-style units and inexpensive clamp fixtures, offering a scientifically trusted option for keeping UV levels closer to natural sun exposure in single-lamp setups.
High-output UVB
Slim profile
High-output UVB
Slim profile
Review Summary
"The Zoo Med ReptiSun T5 HO hood is widely praised for bright, even coverage and a reliable ballast, making it a go-to for UV and plant growth; occasional reviewers mention minor fitment or switch durability issues."
T5 sun-rocket
Specifically designed for T5 HO bulbs to deliver higher UVB output needed by many reptiles and amphibians.
T5 sun-rocket
Specifically designed for T5 HO bulbs to deliver higher UVB output needed by many reptiles and amphibians.
Increased Safety & Security
Recreational Enjoyment
Skill Development & Mastery
The Zoo Med ReptiSun T5 HO Terrarium Hood is the technical leader when high UVB irradiance from a single fluorescent lamp matters — its T5 high-output design delivers stronger UVB per watt, making it the preferred choice for UV-demanding reptiles. Though typically pricier than slimline or T8 fixtures, its biological performance outpaces the Exo Terra T8-style units and inexpensive clamp fixtures, offering a scientifically trusted option for keeping UV levels closer to natural sun exposure in single-lamp setups.
High-output UVB
Slim profile
T5 sun-rocket
Specifically designed for T5 HO bulbs to deliver higher UVB output needed by many reptiles and amphibians.
Aluminum reflector and robust end caps maximize light spread and bulb performance.
High-output UVB
Slim profile
T5 sun-rocket
Specifically designed for T5 HO bulbs to deliver higher UVB output needed by many reptiles and amphibians.
Aluminum reflector and robust end caps maximize light spread and bulb performance.
$70-130 USD
Fluker's Sun Dome Clamp Lamp Fixture
Fluker's Sun Dome clamp fixture is the go-to flexible and budget-minded option for hobbyists who need directional heat or compact lighting without a full canopy; its clamp-and-dome design accepts a range of bulb types and is significantly cheaper up-front than purpose-built fluorescent hoods. While it lacks the integrated reflectors and UV-specific performance of the Zoo Med T5 hood or the tidier fit of Exo Terra canopies, its versatility for heat bulbs and ease of repositioning make it a practical, low-cost tool in mixed setups.
Gecko-grip clamp
Flexible angle
Gecko-grip clamp
Flexible angle
Review Summary
"Fluker’s Sun Dome clamp lamp is a simple, sturdy clamp fixture that securely holds heat and compact bulbs and offers good directional reflectivity; buyers find the finish and included hardware basic but functional."
All-bulb ready
Enamel-coated dome with an adjustable spring clamp for flexible placement and angling.
All-bulb ready
Enamel-coated dome with an adjustable spring clamp for flexible placement and angling.
Increased Safety & Security
Time-Saving Convenience
Recreational Enjoyment
Fluker's Sun Dome clamp fixture is the go-to flexible and budget-minded option for hobbyists who need directional heat or compact lighting without a full canopy; its clamp-and-dome design accepts a range of bulb types and is significantly cheaper up-front than purpose-built fluorescent hoods. While it lacks the integrated reflectors and UV-specific performance of the Zoo Med T5 hood or the tidier fit of Exo Terra canopies, its versatility for heat bulbs and ease of repositioning make it a practical, low-cost tool in mixed setups.
Gecko-grip clamp
Flexible angle
All-bulb ready
Enamel-coated dome with an adjustable spring clamp for flexible placement and angling.
Compatible with a wide range of bulbs including basking incandescent and ceramic heat emitters.
Gecko-grip clamp
Flexible angle
All-bulb ready
Enamel-coated dome with an adjustable spring clamp for flexible placement and angling.
Compatible with a wide range of bulbs including basking incandescent and ceramic heat emitters.
$20-45 USD
Zilla Slimline Desert Fixture
The Zilla Slimline Desert Fixture stands out for desert-dwelling reptiles that need a low-profile single fluorescent lamp delivering consistent visible light and modest UV; its slim housing is economical and easy to fit in shallow or show terrariums. It’s typically less expensive than high-output T5 systems while offering a neater alternative to clamp lamps, making it a solid middle ground between the compact Exo Terra canopy and Zoo Med’s higher-performance hood.
Low-profile fit
Wide UV spread
Low-profile fit
Wide UV spread
Review Summary
"Zilla’s Slimline Desert fixture is a low-profile option that provides decent reflectivity for shallow desert setups, but many users criticize the thin plastic construction, a flimsy switch, and limited bulb flexibility."
Desert sleek charm
Low-profile fluorescent hood optimized for desert-style setups to provide broad light coverage.
Desert sleek charm
Low-profile fluorescent hood optimized for desert-style setups to provide broad light coverage.
Increased Safety & Security
Recreational Enjoyment
Time-Saving Convenience
The Zilla Slimline Desert Fixture stands out for desert-dwelling reptiles that need a low-profile single fluorescent lamp delivering consistent visible light and modest UV; its slim housing is economical and easy to fit in shallow or show terrariums. It’s typically less expensive than high-output T5 systems while offering a neater alternative to clamp lamps, making it a solid middle ground between the compact Exo Terra canopy and Zoo Med’s higher-performance hood.
Low-profile fit
Wide UV spread
Desert sleek charm
Low-profile fluorescent hood optimized for desert-style setups to provide broad light coverage.
Slim design fits tight spaces and features a reflective interior to boost bulb output.
Low-profile fit
Wide UV spread
Desert sleek charm
Low-profile fluorescent hood optimized for desert-style setups to provide broad light coverage.
Slim design fits tight spaces and features a reflective interior to boost bulb output.
$55-110 USD
Exo Terra Light Cycle Unit T8
The Exo Terra Light Cycle Unit T8 is positioned as an economical, gentle-illumination fixture for species and setups where lower UV and even photoperiod lighting are preferred; its T8 format provides broader, softer light at a lower cost-per-bulb than T5 HO options. For keepers prioritizing budget and subtle day/night simulation over peak UV output, it is a sound alternative to the more powerful Zoo Med T5 hood and a more structured lighting solution than a clamp lamp.
Programmable timer
Dual-socket setup
Programmable timer
Dual-socket setup
Review Summary
"The Exo Terra Light Cycle T8 unit is convenient for automated day/night scheduling and simplifies lighting routines, though some owners report underwhelming brightness and mixed long-term durability."
Tiny sun scheduler
T8 fluorescent unit that supports daylight and UV tubes to balance visible light and UVB needs.
Tiny sun scheduler
T8 fluorescent unit that supports daylight and UV tubes to balance visible light and UVB needs.
Increased Safety & Security
Time-Saving Convenience
Skill Development & Mastery
The Exo Terra Light Cycle Unit T8 is positioned as an economical, gentle-illumination fixture for species and setups where lower UV and even photoperiod lighting are preferred; its T8 format provides broader, softer light at a lower cost-per-bulb than T5 HO options. For keepers prioritizing budget and subtle day/night simulation over peak UV output, it is a sound alternative to the more powerful Zoo Med T5 hood and a more structured lighting solution than a clamp lamp.
Programmable timer
Dual-socket setup
Tiny sun scheduler
T8 fluorescent unit that supports daylight and UV tubes to balance visible light and UVB needs.
Some models include light-cycling features to simulate natural day/night changes.
Programmable timer
Dual-socket setup
Tiny sun scheduler
T8 fluorescent unit that supports daylight and UV tubes to balance visible light and UVB needs.
Some models include light-cycling features to simulate natural day/night changes.
$60-120 USD