Are you a first-time owner eager to bring your bearded dragon home, or do you want to upgrade to a better or larger tank? Don’t stress yourself. We have the best bearded dragon tanks or vivariums to buy.
To come up with the best vivarium for these reptiles, we did a long and thorough scan of the various brands in the market. Afterward, we applied our expertise to assess and select brands we trust and know to be the best.
You cannot afford to buy an inferior brand or, worse, let marketing gimmicks sway and reap your hard-earned cash.
Also, you obviously don’t want to end up with what you will describe as ‘junk’ or ‘fraud’ a few days or months later. So, take your time and read this post to the end.
To give you a heads up, all the seven best tanks or enclosures we will review are for adult bearded dragons. If you have a juvenile beardie, it will soon be an adult. Why not invest in a larger tank than upgrade a few months later? Remember, some of these enclosures last a decade or longer.
However, before that, here is our methodology or how we settled on these brands and not many others that look equally good.
Methodology
Before selecting the seven best bearded dragon tanks or terrariums, we looked at more than 50 types and brands. Truth be told, there are not so many brands in the market.
In each, we considered its size, safety, functionality, pricing, durability, warranties, maintenance, claims and materials.
The common materials are glass, melamine, wood, PVC, vision cages, etc. Some may have plastic or metallic frames. Never buy an entire wire mesh brand; it will not retain heat.
Also, we inquired about the availability of replacement parts and assessed user satisfaction, customer support, and brand trustworthiness.
As our bare minimum, every tank we reviewed is secure and will prevent escape, attack, or hazards that may injure this reptile. Don’t forget that bearded dragons have many predators, like snakes, birds, foxes, feral cats, goannas, dingoes, etc.
Secondly, we took the issue of size seriously. A proper tank must meet the minimum size requirement. Nothing less. Otherwise, these pets may be unhappy or even fall sick.
Herpetologists, veterinarians, reptile humane, and animal welfare societies all agree that an ideal tank size for an adult bearded dragon should be 48″ by 24″ by 24″ (120 cm by 60 cm by 60 cm or 4ft by 2ft by 2ft) or larger.
However, there is some consensus that a tank of at least 40 gallons capacity with typical dimensions of 36″ by 18″ by 18″ is ok.
That said, we still strongly recommend a larger one, at least 65 gallons. Such will accommodate the supplies, furniture, and décor and leave ample space for your pet to thrive.
However, be aware that a gigantic one means more resources in heating, light, substrate, monitoring devices, etc. Therefore, always strike a balance.
What are the best bearded dragon tanks?
Now, to the part you probably have been eagerly waiting for or most interested in. Here are the top brands, starting with the best. For each, we will tell you the reasons why we picked or liked it.
1. REPTIZOO Large Reptile Terrarium 120 Gallon
At the top of our list of best tanks for bearded dragons is the REPTIZOO 48″ L x 24″ W x 24″ H Large Glass terrarium. This 120-gallon enclosure is elegant, safe, and intuitively designed.
The manufacturer, REPTIZOO, has over 15 years of experience and 72 unique reptile product patents.
This company is headquartered in Florida and has partners in over 30 countries. It also designs, manufactures, and sells other reptile equipment, like efficient lamps, heat pads, thermostats, and humidifiers.
Quick highlights
- Material: Tempered glass and ABS frame
- Color: Black frames and clear glass
- Shape: Rectangular (cuboid)
- Dimensions: 48″ L x 24″ W x 24″ H
- Capacity: 120 gallons
- Weight: 91 pounds (42 kg)
- Access: Front double sliding door and a removable top screen
What we liked
- A waterproof bottom suitable for bioactive substrates.
- Easy access via lockable sliding front doors and removable top screen.
- A raised bottom for ventilation or under the tank heater.
- An all-glass design that gives a 360-degree view.
- Six slidable cables pass on top and one on the side to organize cables and probes for various supplies.
- One-year warranty
- Free shipping in the US except Alaska
- Excellent customer service
What we didn’t like
- The front door lock is a bit flimsy. It doesn’t securely lock the sliding doors in place in some enclosures.
- Damages during shipping.
- It is costly.
- Assembly instructions and video could be clearer.
- They don’t sell all replacement accessories separately.
Our verdict
REPTIZOO Large Reptile Terrarium 120 Gallon is undoubtedly one of the best tanks for adult bearded dragons. It is classy, sturdy, durable and will offer a comfy and spacious dwelling place for these reptiles.
However, we find it a little expensive. Also, they should improve their sliding door lock and package it better when shipping.
2. Carolina Custom Cages Terrarium, Extra-Long, 48″ L x 24″ W x 24″ H
Taking the second spot for best vivariums for bearded dragons is the extra-long 119-gallon Carolina Custom Cages Terrarium. It was challenging to decide between this and the next one (Zilla), which best deserved this spot. They are both excellent brands.
Carolina Custom Cages is a division of Carolina Designer Dragons, Inc., a selective breeder in Charlotte, North Carolina, USA. They make top-quality bearded dragon products, including cages (terrariums), lighting fixtures, habitat backgrounds, carpets, leashes, collars, hammocks, lounges, etc.
Quick highlights
- Material: Tempered glass, plastic flanges, and metal rods
- Color: Black frame and clear glass
- Shape: Rectangular (cuboid)
- Dimensions: 48″ L x 24″ W x 24″ H
- Capacity: 119 gallons
- Weight: 73 pounds (33 kg)
- Access: Sliding double front doors and removable top screen.
What we liked
- The 6.3-inch-deep waterproof base with a drain valve is ideal for a bioactive setup.
- Easy access via lockable front sliding doors and top removable screen.
- All glass 360-degree view
- Easy to install. Just look at the labels.
- Responsive and prompt customer service
What we didn’t like
- The structure feels a little flimsy, and the glass is thin.
- Replacement parts are not readily available.
- The molded plastic corners don’t fit well and have scuffs, scratches, or damage. You may need a plastic mallet to install them.
- Its locking mechanism isn’t great and so secure.
- Costly
Our verdict
Carolina Custom Cages Terrarium, Extra-Long, is a wonderful buy. It is durable and looks amazing.
We really like that the company now includes extra Styrofoam to minimize damages that initially raised many complaints.
However, we still find it expensive considering its quality. Also, a little reengineering will fix most of the few flaws we noted.
3. Zilla QuickBuild Terrarium 48″ L x 18″ W x 18″ H
Zilla QuickBuild Terrarium is a sleek and stylish stackable amphibian and reptile terrarium. It will look stunning in your office or home.
Zilla is an American company headquartered in Franklin, WI, which began in 2006. It is a subsidiary of Central Garden & Pet. Besides tanks, this company also deals in top-notch reptile and amphibian products, like foods, supplements, heating, lighting, and monitoring accessories and supplies.
Quick highlights
- Material: Black plastic frame and clear glass
- Color: Black and clear
- Shape: Rectangular (cuboid)
- Dimensions: 48″ L x 18″ W x 18″ H
- Capacity: 65 gallons
- Weight: 48.5 Pounds (22 kg)
- Access: Front sliding door and hinged double screens
What we liked
- Easy to assemble and take down for moving or storage.
- Designed for stacking. It won’t slide.
- Easy access via double-hinged top screens and key-locked double front doors.
- Unique and snap-close quick feeding door on the screen.
- 90 days warranty
- Comes with a bedding tray or water-tight bottom that can hold up to 2 inches of water.
- Two external pins for mounting a background.
What we didn’t like
- The heavy glass overwhelms the plastic frame, making it a little rickety. Don’t place heavy things on top of it or move it alone.
- The easy-cleaning bedding tray is flimsy and feels like it will soon break.
- The suction cup door handles could be better.
- It is costly.
- You may incur costs to return it unless covered by warranty.
Our verdict
Zilla QuickBuild Terrarium 48x18x18 is a durable, stylish, and easy-to-assemble bearded dragon tank.
If intended for bearded dragons, go for the one with a removable substrate tray. It makes cleaning a breeze.
We find this tank costly. Also, it should be sturdier, being stackable.
Lastly, the side ventilation screen should have a glass option to control humidity or heat better.
4. Essential 4 PVC & Aluminum Enclosure 2.0 – 48″ L x 24″ W x 24″ H
The Essential 4 PVC & Aluminum Enclosure by Custom Reptile Habitats is a versatile, sturdy, and beautiful terrarium designed and made in the US.
Custom Reptile Habitats is based in Dayton, Ohio, and boasts over four decades of experience making custom reptile habitats. This company also makes backgrounds and décor.
Quick highlights
- Material: Whisper-quiet PVC, anodized aluminum, ¼ tempered glass, full aluminum mesh.
- Color: Black PVC panels, black or silver frame, and a clear front glass
- Shape: Rectangular (cuboid)
- Dimensions: 48″ L x 24″ W x 24″ H
- Capacity: 120 Gallons (external) and 107.63 gallons (internal)
- Weight: 62 Pounds (28 kg)
- Access: Double front sliding doors
What we liked
- A sturdy, secure, and durable design with strong, lockable glass doors and durable PVC panels that will not rot, crack, or burn easily.
- Innovative 2 in 1 aluminum screen and humidity control panel. The screen allows 77% UVB light, and the hood will help raise humidity.
- Versatile with upgrade options to HDPE and ACRE panels, a 7-inch-deep bioactive substrate lip. Also, you can go for a spacer, matching stands, and hoods.
- New matching, clear, or vented substrate lip.
- Stackable two high
- Ten years warranty
- Excellent customer service,
- Quick replacement of parts.
What we didn’t like
- Some arrive with a few scratches or damage on the PVC panels.
- It has a limited view (front only).
- Lacks cable passes.
- Costly.
Our verdict
Essential 4 PVC & Aluminum Enclosure 2.0 is classy, sturdy, durable, and attractive. It will perfectly blend into your home or office furniture.
This enclosure is a versatile upgrade of the earlier version 1.0. It is more customizable and comes with lots of extras.
However, it is expensive, and extras are also costly. Buy it if you don’t mind spending more or having a limited view.
5. New Age Pet® ECOFLEX 48″ Large Mojave Reptile Habitat Enclosure Lounge in Maple
Made with innovative ECOFLEX, a wood plastic composite, the New Age Pet® ECOFLEX 48″ Large Mojave Reptile Habitat is a superb pick. This vivarium is safe and durable. However, it has its downs too.
For over 20 years now, New Age Pet, the manufacturer, has been creating high-quality, aesthetically appealing pet enclosures and furniture. This US-based company is headquartered in Hayward, California.
Quick highlights
- Material: Stainless Steel screen, ECOFLEX, Glass
- Color: Maple and clear
- Shape: Rectangular (cuboid)
- Dimensions: 48″ L x 24″ W x 24″ H
- Capacity: 120 gallons
- Weight: 50.71 pounds (23 kg)
- Access: Removable front sliding doors
What we liked
- It is easy to assemble.
- This cage doesn’t retain odor.
- It has a natural bamboo or wood finish appeal that will complement most office and home furniture.
- Lightweight
- They sell replacement parts.
- Locking keys stay in place when locked. Therefore, you are unlikely to lose it.
- Small side ventilations that will allow air circulation while preventing excessive heat or humidity loss.
What we didn’t like
- Damages during shipping
- Doesn’t have a watertight base and will not work with a bioactive substrate.
- Prone to scratches
- Vulnerable to heat and high humidity
- Limited front view
- The plastic screws are weak and strip easily.
- Slides or rails are quite fragile.
- No cable pass for control probes.
Our verdict
The New Age Pet® ECOFLEX reptile habitat is a sturdy, naturalistic, and stable enclosure. Also, it is relatively affordable.
However, you must handle it carefully as it is prone to scratches. Also, ensure your heat lamps don’t touch the ECOFLEX, as it will burn or damage it.
The side ventilations are small and unlikely to cause a challenge in maintaining heat or humidity.
6. 4’x2’x2′ Original Zen Habitats Reptile Enclosures with Wood Panels
If you love the bamboo wood finish, 4’x2’x2′ Original Zen Habitats Reptile is perfect. This stackable and lightweight enclosure has a naturalistic appeal.
Zen Habitat, the manufacturer, is a relatively new company. It began operations in 2017, and its headquarters is on Nantasket Ave, Massachusetts.
Quick highlights
- Material: Aluminum frame, acrylic doors, bamboo-finished wood side panels, and steel screen
- Color: Light golden (bamboo) and clear
- Shape: Rectangular (cuboid)
- Dimensions: 48″ L x 24″ W x 24″ H”
- Capacity: Weight: 120 gallons
- Weight: 48 pounds (22 kg)
- Access: Double front sliding doors
What we liked
- Lightweight. It weighs just 48 pounds.
- Easy to assemble.
- 5-year warranty
- It is heat efficient. The bamboo retains heat up to 10 times better than glass.
- Plexiglass is less reflective and will not startle your bearded dragons, which makes them anxious.
- It has two side cable passes.
What we didn’t like
- Plastic corner joints are flimsy and don’t fit well in all joints. They are either too loose or tight.
- The bamboo siding is thin and not waterproof.
- Limited front view
- These enclosures are squeaky, rattle, or cause tremors when walking around them.
- Sliding glass doesn’t fit so well in some units.
- Unsuitable for under-tank heating or bioactive substrates
- The wire lock isn’t effective.
- Bamboo and plexiglass scratches easily
Our verdict
The 4’x2’x2′ Original Zen Habitats Reptile Enclosure has a beautiful design and looks amazing. It looks natural and will blend well with your home or office furniture.
However, it is expensive considering the quality and rickety.
We like the improvement Zen Habitat made to include door wraps. They make it harder for small pets like snakes to slide out between the glass doors.
Only buy this enclosure if you have low-humidity reptiles like bearded dragons and don’t intend to use bioactive substrate.
7. NEPTONION 48 Gallon Professional Glass Terrarium 36″x18″x18″
We liked the NEPTONION 48 Gallon Professional Glass Terrarium at first sight. It features a super sleek design and looks sturdy. Is it worth the money?
Neptonion, the manufacturer, is a relatively new company based in Asia. It began in 2017 with a focus on aquarium and vivarium tank designs. They also sell some related accessories.
Quick highlights
- Material: Aluminum alloy and glass
- Color: Clear glass and black frames
- Shape: Cuboid (rectangular)
- Dimensions: 36″ L x 18″ L x 18″H
- Capacity: 48 gallons
- Weight: 51 pounds (23kg)
- Access: Double front hinged door and screen on top
What we liked
- Easy to assemble and take down.
- The idea of having a side mess or glass to control humidity is brilliant. Use glass for higher humidity and mesh for lower.
- 18-month warranty.
- They sell replacement parts.
- A waterproof base of up to 4 inches makes it a bioactive substrate.
- Closable code management – 5 wire or tube inlets on both screen sides.
- A raised bottom if you need to use an undertank heater.
What we didn’t like
- The gap above the doors is a little big, allowing smaller reptiles like snakes to escape.
- The top is not firmly secured on the front side. It wiggles, and you can easily lift it with minimal force.
- The glass door is thin, and the lock is flimsy.
- We didn’t like their idea of hinged doors. They don’t allow you to open the cage partially, although you can open each lock independently.
- Not much information is available about this company.
Our verdict
NEPTONION 48 Gallon Professional Glass Terrarium can easily be one of the best bearded dragon tanks. However, it needs a bit of reengineering to fix a few flaws noted.
Should you decide to buy it, you may need duct taping, or your pet may escape.
Not for just bearded dragons
The best bearded dragon tanks we have reviewed above are not just for bearded dragons. You can use them for other reptiles and amphibians like hermit crabs, frogs, turtles, tortoises, ball pythons, and other snakes.
However, some are unsuitable for conditions where some of these pets thrive. A good example is the Zen Habitats, which are unsuitable for pets that thrive in high humidity.
Disclaimer
We understand that there are many other good brands we didn’t mention. Perhaps we didn’t include yours. If it is good, let us know. We can do a product review on our website free of charge.
Also, we will include it in our top 7 best bearded dragon tanks in future updates if it is an exceptional brand. However, we don’t take incentives to include any brand unfairly.