Turtles are fascinating pets that can bring joy and a sense of tranquility to your home. As cold-blooded reptiles, they rely on the temperature of their environment and require specific habitat conditions to thrive. This is where a well-designed turtle tank plays a crucial role in keeping your shelled friend happy and healthy.
While considering a turtle tank, it’s essential to understand that turtles require ample space to swim and bask. Investing in a good quality turtle tank not only ensures your pet’s comfort, but also impacts its overall health and longevity. Turtle tanks under $500 offer a great balance of affordability and suitable housing conditions for your new pet.
When shopping for the ideal turtle tank, there are a few key factors to consider. The tank size should accommodate your turtle’s growth, and the materials should be safe and durable. You will also want to find a tank with an efficient filtration system and a basking area, as these features help promote a clean and healthy environment. Considering these factors, we conducted comprehensive research and testing to find the top turtle tanks under $500 that provide a perfect home for your reptile pet.
Join us as we explore our top picks and help you make an informed decision when it comes to selecting the best turtle tank for your needs.
Best Turtle Tanks under $500
We have carefully selected the top turtle tanks available under $500 to make your search easier. Browse through our curated list to find the best tank for your aquatic pets.
Tetra Aquatic Turtle Deluxe Kit 20 Gallons
- COMPLETE aquarium KIT: 20-gallon tank is ideal for aquatic turtles, and this kit includes all the essentials needed for success, including a decorative filter with cartridges, basking platform, heating lamp, boxwood plant mat and screen top.
- INCLUDES WATER FILTER: Decorative ReptoFilter instantly creates a beautiful waterfall while keeping water clean with 3-stage filtration.
- HEATING: Dome lamps are incorporated into the screen top for warmth and prime basking.
- CONVENIENT: Includes Tetra food and water care product samples – everything you need to get started.
- DIMENSIONS: aquarium measures 30 inches wide x 12 inches deep x 12 inches tall.
This Tetra Aquatic Turtle Deluxe Kit is an ideal option for turtle enthusiasts seeking a complete and affordable turtle tank under $500.
Pros
- Complete aquarium kit with essential accessories
- Decorative ReptoFilter with 3-stage filtration
- Dome lamps for heating and basking
Cons
- Bulb issues upon initial use
- Filter may be brittle
- Incorrect dimensions in product description
We recently set up the Tetra Aquatic Turtle Deluxe Kit for our new painted turtle, and we have been quite impressed with its overall design and features. The 20-gallon tank is a perfect size for a medium-sized turtle, and the kit has everything needed for a starter tank. It comes with a decorative filter with cartridges, a basking platform, heating lamps, a boxwood plant mat, and a screen top, providing our turtle with a comfortable and attractive habitat.
The ReptoFilter is not only visually appealing with its waterfall design, but it effectively keeps the water clean through a 3-stage filtration process. The dome lamps incorporated into the screen top provide both warmth and an ideal basking spot for our turtle. Setting up the tank was straightforward, and it even included Tetra food and water care product samples to get us off to a good start.
However, we encountered some issues with the kit. One of the bulbs stopped working immediately upon use, and there was no easy way to contact the seller for a replacement. Additionally, the filter, though attractive, felt somewhat brittle, which raises concerns for its long-term durability. Lastly, the size information in the product description was inaccurate, causing confusion and requiring adjustments in our setup.
Despite these drawbacks, the Tetra Aquatic Turtle Deluxe Kit remains a solid and affordable option for those seeking a complete turtle tank under $500. With its array of essential accessories and a visually pleasing design, this kit provides a secure and comfortable environment for your aquatic turtle.
REPTI ZOO 50 Gallon Terrarium
- 【Easy Folding & Quick Install】:World unique patented foldable design, high-end and high-grade reptile terrariums,Easy quick set up in 3 minutes with collapsible 4-steps construction.
- 【One-hand Opening Door & Unique Blacked-out Back】: Detachable double front hinge doors with "one-hand opening" door locks allow easy access for maintenance and feeding,Give you plenty of decoration space for your terrarium;Unique blacked-out PVC back to reduce stress for the animals, it looks good even without any decoration.
- 【Comfortable Ventilation Environment】:Removable top mesh screen provides plenty of ventilation for proper air-flow and allows full specturm, UVB and IR light penetration.Exit slots available in the screen top for power cords or airline tubing.Front ventilation strips propmt air-flow and minimize humidity build-up in habitat.
- 【Water-tight Base & Elevated Leg Design】: A water-tight base allows for a "water pool" inside the terrarium, avaliable for amphibian and aquatic;Elevated leg design on bottom of habitat provides space for heating pad and allows even heat dissipation.
- 【Detachable Sides & Easily Disassemble】:Detachable sides can be alternated with glass.Can be easily disassembled for transportation to save shipping and storage cost.
This versatile and spacious terrarium is a great option for reptile enthusiasts looking for a sturdy and functional habitat under $500.
Pros
- Easy folding and quick installation
- One-hand opening door with unique blacked-out back
- Comfortable ventilation environment
Cons
- Potential for minor size discrepancies
- Some parts may be fragile during shipping
- Requires careful assembly
Firstly, we were impressed with the easy folding and quick installation of the REPTI ZOO 50 Gallon Terrarium. The unique patented foldable design allows for a high-end and high-grade reptile terrarium that can be set up in just 3 minutes. This feature makes it incredibly convenient and user-friendly.
Another standout aspect of this terrarium is the one-hand opening door with a unique blacked-out back. The detachable double front hinge doors with “one-hand opening” door locks allow easy access for maintenance and feeding, giving plenty of space for decoration. The blacked-out PVC back not only reduces stress for the reptiles but also adds visual appeal.
We noticed that the ventilation environment in the REPTI ZOO Terrarium is comfortable and functional. The removable top mesh screen ensures proper airflow and allows full-spectrum, UVB, and IR light penetration. There are also exit slots available for power cords or airline tubing. Front ventilation strips further facilitate airflow and minimize humidity buildup.
We do have a few concerns though. One is that there can be minor size discrepancies between the product description and its actual dimensions. While not a significant issue, you should be aware of this potential variation. Additionally, some of the parts may be fragile during shipping, so it’s essential to check for damage upon arrival. Lastly, the terrarium requires careful assembly to prevent any issues further down the line.
Overall, the REPTI ZOO 50 Gallon Terrarium offers a fantastic mix of spaciousness, functionality, and style under $500. With proper setup and by being aware of its minor issues, it will make an excellent habitat for reptile enthusiasts.
The REPTI ZOO 50 Gallon Terrarium is a prime choice for reptile enthusiasts looking for a spacious and easy-to-maintain habitat under $500.
For those wanting an even larger enclosure, REPTI ZOO also offers a 67 Gallon Terrarium as well as an even larger 85 Gallon Terrarium. Links to those products are provided below.
- [Patent Design][Upgrade Version]: Made with high quality thick and extremely high hardness tempered glass base for more safety; Tough screen top provides ventilation and allows good uvb and infrared penetration
- Raised bottom frame in order to fit a substrate heater; Waterproof bottom makes this tank can be used both as desert terrarium and rainforest tank
- Front sliding door can open separately, easy to feed your pet and clean, and the lock prevent escape.
- Window ventilation on left and right, on top and right have closable inlets for wires and tubing
- Easy to install or knock-down in 5 minutes with step by step instructions; Our glass terrariums are carefully packaged with tough cardboard and thickened reinforced foam for transportation. Should you have any questions when receive it, please feel free to contact us. Free replacement service provided for damaged parts.
- Size of RK0226 Large Reptile Habitat Tank (※Patent Design): 48" x 24" x 18". Tough screen top provides ventilation and allows uvb and infrared penetration. (Please do not drill holes on the glass, the glass may be crack.)
- Raised bottom frame in order to fit a substrate heater; Waterproof bottom makes this tank can be used both as desert terrarium and rainforest tank. Suitable for reptile and amphibian such as bearded dragon, adult pogona viticeps, young adult sulcata tortoise, juvenile aldabrachelys gigantea, red leg tortoise, leopard tortoise, python regius and etc.
- The front doors can open separately, easily accessible for feeding and convenient cleaning, decoration, and maintenance. All terrariums feature anti-escaping key-lock security.
- There is a mesh panel on the right side of the terrarium, which provides ventilation. One cable pass also be inclued on the right side, the rotating fixed sturcture can hold 4 lines firmly.
- Easy to install or knock-down in several minutes with step by step instructions; Our glass terrariums are carefully packaged with double box of tough cardboard and thickened reinforced foam for transportation. Should you have any questions when receive it, please feel free to contact us. Free replacement service provided for damaged parts.
MoonOrange Small Turtle Tank Kit
- 【ALL-IN-ONE Starter Kit for Small Reptiles】Package includes all accessories you need for a tank starter kit: 1*tank, 1*lamp+2*bulbs, 1*filter+2*filter plate, 1*PVC pipe, 1*sponge, 2*decorative plant, 1*cleaning brush, 1BAG rocks(240g), 1* manual. Save your time and trouble shopping for all parts separately!
- 【Compact Tank & Easy to Install】Tank size 15.4” x 10.6” x 7.1”. Maximum water level: 2.56’’. Perfect for small turtles, crabs and other small reptiles within 3.0’’. The installation is an easy job with our manual inside the pack!
- 【UVA/UVB Basking Lamp + 25W/35W Bulbs】Turtles need to bask in the sunshine everyday 1-2 hours for metabolism, mood regulation, breeding, etc. 25W/35W Bulbs provide best warmth within distance of 10’’ to 15’’. They’re perfect for this small tank, not too hot not too cold.
- 【3.5W Waterfall Filter + 3-Layer Filter Plates】 Our compact but powerful filter keeps water clean and provides shower for your pet. Please use the hook to hang the filter to stabilize it! Suitable for turtle or fish tanks of 1-15 gallons. [FILTER MOTOR MAINTENANCE] 1. Take out the motor and rinse to remove debris regularly. 2. Keep water level above the water inlet area to reduce noise and prevent dry burn!
- 【Easy to Use & Clean】Bottom drainage outlet and a PVC drain pipe are equipped to help you change water in no time. Four rubber foot stands are stable and anti-slip. There is an area to DIY your green planting as you like.
We highly recommend this all-in-one starter kit that makes setting up a turtle tank a breeze.
Pros
- All-in-one starter kit
- Compact and easy to install
- UVA/UVB basking lamp and waterfall filter included
Cons
- Tank size may not suit larger species
- Wall height might not prevent escape for active turtles
- Limited tank volume (3 Liters)
The MoonOrange Small Turtle Tank Kit comes with all necessary accessories to create a comfortable and functional home for your small reptiles. We appreciate the convenience of having everything included in one purchase, eliminating the need to shop around for individual parts.
We love how simple it was to assemble this tank with the help of the provided manual. Although the tank is compact, at 15.4″ x 10.6″ x 7.1″, it’s perfect for small turtles, crabs, and other reptiles up to 2.5″ in size. However, if you have larger species or plan to upgrade in the future, keep in mind that this tank may not be suitable.
We found the UVA/UVB basking lamp with 25W/35W bulbs to be perfect for providing warmth to our little buddies. The waterfall filter and carbon filter plates keep the water clean, making it an excellent environment for turtles and even fish. One thing to note is the tank’s wall height, which might not be enough to prevent active turtles from escaping. We recommend taking necessary precautions if your turtle is known for being adventurous.
In conclusion, the MoonOrange Small Turtle Tank Kit is a great investment for first-time turtle owners or those looking for an all-inclusive starter kit. With its compact size, convenient all-in-one package, and essential accessories like the basking lamp and filter, this tank is an excellent choice for small reptiles.
AMOSIJOY Turtle Tank
- 【HEIGHTENED GLASSES】The protective layer of the AMOSIJOY turtle tank is composed of 7.2 inches high glass, which can effectively prevent the turtle from crawling out.
- 【THREE LAYERS DESIGN】This turtle tank adapts separated design, easy to clean and change water, saving time and energy at a large extent. Just by lifting the filter layer, the food residue and excreta will sink into the water in the bottom layer. And then pour out the dirty water and add clean water, water changing accomplished. There are also pump and filter hidden under the filter layer, reducing 2/3 times of changing water.
- 【MULTIPLE FUNCTIONAL AREAS】According to the living habits of amphibians, multiple functional areas are designed to better meet the needs of them in daily activities by simulating their real living environment, including feeding area, basking area, anti-slip climbing area, diving and swimming area, hatching/green area. This tortoise tank will be their ideal residence.
- 【PREMIUM MATERIAL】Ultra clear glass is selected for this tank, which the four pieces of thickened 5mm glass tank walls are made from, featuring of higher light transmission, better ornamental, higher toughness and hardness, further prolonging service life. It also provides you with 360° panoramic view to observe the condition of your pets, without dead angle.
- 【WIDE APPLICATION】Dimension: 23.6’’×14.1’’×10.4’’, ideal home fits for water turtles, hermit crabs, little turtle, little tortoises, crayfish, fish, small amphibians and small amphibious creatures within 3 inches.
A great option for pet owners seeking a functional, easy-to-clean turtle tank under $500, suited for small amphibians and turtles.
Pros
- Heightened glass walls prevent escapes
- Well-designed three-layer design for simplified cleaning
- Multiple functional areas for a natural habitat
Cons
- May not be suitable for larger turtles
- Filter replacements might be challenging
- Potentially unclear assembly instructions
The AMOSIJOY Turtle Tank stands out due to its heightened 7.2-inch glass walls, which efficiently prevent turtles from climbing out. We enjoyed the peace of mind that came with this feature, as it ensured our pets’ safety. Moreover, the crystal-clear glass provides an opportunity for a 360° panoramic view of the entire tank, allowing us to observe our pets without missing any details.
Another noteworthy aspect of this turtle tank is its three-layer design. The ease of cleaning and changing the water saved us time and energy. The clever layout with the filter layer allowed us to pour out any dirty water without hassle and replace it with clean water almost effortlessly. The hidden pump and filter also contribute to a reduction in water changes needed.
The AMOSIJOY Turtle Tank aims to mimic the natural habitat of our pets, offering multiple functional areas like the feeding area, basking area, anti-slip climbing area, diving and swimming area, and hatching/green area. This versatility provided our small amphibians and turtles with an environment that catered to their daily habits and activities. However, we found that it may not be suitable for larger turtles as they might not fit comfortably in the available spaces.
The only downsides we encountered were the unclear assembly instructions and the potentially challenging process of finding filter replacements. Nevertheless, we highly recommend the AMOSIJOY Turtle Tank to anyone seeking a visually appealing and functional solution for housing and caring for their small turtles and amphibians.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best turtle tanks under $500, there are several factors to consider that will help ensure the health, safety, and happiness of your aquatic pets. In this buying guide, we will discuss important features and considerations to help you make an informed decision.
Size and Capacity
First and foremost, consider the size and capacity of the turtle tank. Turtles need adequate space to swim, bask, and hide. A general rule of thumb is to provide 10 gallons of water per inch of turtle shell length. Additionally, keep in mind that turtles grow, so it’s important to choose a tank with room for growth.
Tank Material
Tanks can be made of glass or acrylic. Both have their advantages and disadvantages. Glass tanks are durable, less prone to scratches, and generally less expensive. However, they can be heavy and are susceptible to cracking. Acrylic tanks are lightweight and have better clarity, but they can scratch more easily and may become discolored over time. Weigh the pros and cons of each material when selecting your tank.
Filtration and Water Quality
A high-quality filtration system is essential to maintain clean water and prevent the buildup of harmful waste and bacteria. When selecting a tank, consider the type of filter that is included or compatible with the tank. There are three types of filtration:
- Mechanical: Removes solid waste
- Chemical: Removes toxins, odors, and discoloration
- Biological: Breaks down harmful ammonia and nitrite into less toxic compounds
Opt for a tank that offers all three types of filtration, or be prepared to purchase additional equipment as needed.
Heating and Lighting
Turtles require a basking area with proper heating and lighting to regulate their body temperature and ensure proper digestion. Look for a turtle tank that includes a basking platform and a heat lamp. Additionally, make sure the tank is compatible with UVB lighting, which is essential for turtles to synthesize vitamin D3 and properly absorb calcium.
| Feature | Importance |
|---|---|
| Size and Capacity | Adequate space for movement and growth |
| Tank Material | Durability, clarity, and overall quality |
| Filtration and Water Quality | Clean, safe environment for turtles |
| Heating and Lighting | Proper temperature regulation and UVB exposure |
By taking into account these factors, you will be better equipped to find the best turtle tank under $500 for your aquatic pets. Remember to prioritize their needs and ensure that the chosen tank meets, or exceeds, the necessary requirements.
