Arcadia ShadeDweller vs Zoo Med
Head-to-head comparison of Arcadia ShadeDweller ProT5 Kit 7% and Zoo Med ReptiSun 5.0 T5 HO. See specs, pros, cons, and our verdict.
Quick Winner
Arcadia ShadeDweller ProT5 Kit 7%
Arcadia ShadeDweller ProT5 Kit 7% earns our top recommendation for most keepers. Zoo Med ReptiSun 5.0 T5 HO delivers solid performance at a lower price point.
Full VerdictSide-by-Side Specs
| Feature | AArcadia ShadeDweller ProT5 | BZoo Med ReptiSun |
|---|---|---|
| UVB Output (%) | 7% | 5% |
| Bulb Type | T5 HO | T5 HO |
| Kit or Bulb Only | Complete Kit | Bulb Only |
| Bulb Lifespan | 12 months | 6 months |
| Albino Safe (at recommended distance) | Yes (raise to 18") | Yes (raise to 18") |
| Price Range | $40–$50 | $15–$20 |
UVB Output (%)
A
7%
B
5%
Bulb Type
A
T5 HO
B
T5 HO
Kit or Bulb Only
A
Complete Kit
B
Bulb Only
Bulb Lifespan
A
12 months
B
6 months
Albino Safe (at recommended distance)
A
Yes (raise to 18")
B
Yes (raise to 18")
Price Range
A
$40–$50
B
$15–$20
Pros & Cons
AArcadia ShadeDweller ProT5
Pros
- Purpose-built for crepuscular species like leopard geckos
- Complete kit — fixture, bulb, reflector, and link cable included
- Curved reflector delivers focused, even UV coverage
- 12-month bulb lifespan (twice that of most competitors)
- Albino-safe at 18" distance without switching bulbs
Cons
- Only available in 12" length — too short for enclosures wider than 18"
- Premium price compared to buying a bare bulb
- Overkill if you supplement D3 heavily and don't want behavioral UVB benefits
BZoo Med ReptiSun
Pros
- Cheapest quality T5 HO bulb option available
- Widely available in local pet stores across North America
- 5% output is well within safe range for normal leopard gecko morphs
- Available in 22" and 34" lengths
Cons
- 6-month bulb lifespan — costs more annually than it appears at purchase
- Requires a separate T5 HO fixture
- Slightly lower UV intensity than Arcadia 6% at the same distance
The Bottom Line
Arcadia ShadeDweller ProT5 Kit 7% earns our top recommendation for most keepers. Zoo Med ReptiSun 5.0 T5 HO delivers solid performance at a lower price point.
AChoose Arcadia ShadeDweller ProT5 if...
Normal leopard gecko morphs in standard 36" or smaller enclosures
Want more options?
See all our picks in Best UVB Lights for Leopard Geckos (Including Albino Morphs)
Common Questions
Arcadia ShadeDweller ProT5 Kit 7% (Best Overall) is best for Normal leopard gecko morphs in standard 36" or smaller enclosures. Zoo Med ReptiSun 5.0 T5 HO (Best Value) is best for Budget-conscious keepers who prefer buying locally.