http://www.uvguide.co.uk/compactlamps.htm#output

The exo terra is a compact self ballasted florescent lamp.


The zoo med repti-sun 10.0 is a standard florescent bulb where the ballast is built into the fixture.


The unique aspect of the compact lamp is that a reflector (aluminum housing typically brushed aluminum) can be used.

When the housing is used in conjunction with the compact florescent bulb a very good amount of uvb (nearly double that of the use without the aluminum housing) is possible. This is a good thing if set up properly. A good thing really for BDs as long as you allow enough area for them to retreat from the light.

When you use the housing with the compact lamp make sure you have enough distance... about 8 inches.

Then you need to take into consideration if your are using this light through a screen enclosure or mounted within the enclosure itself.



Basically, in a nutshell... the compact is better in my opinion. Use it with a aluminum shroud. And give the dragon enough room to avoid the light if he/she wants.

The standard aluminum strip lights give negligible uvb and are basically worthless in my personal opinion.

They dont give enough enough uvb to worth a darn. 25-35uw/cm2

I have found my other compact reptilain double 9watt bulb to put out far more uvb than any of the florescent strip light type bulbs.



Go with a compact and a nice shroud. I like to put the compact and heat down near the same end of the enclosure so they are getting both heat and uvb if they so desire. The other end is cooler.



Hope that helps.

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