🦎 Introduction
New to reptiles and not sure which gecko to choose? Two of the most popular beginner-friendly pet geckos are the Leopard Gecko and the Crested Gecko. They’re both low-maintenance and adorable—but they also have key differences.
In this guide, we’ll compare them in 7 essential categories to help you choose the perfect gecko for your lifestyle.
📍 1. Natural Habitat & Origin
- Leopard Gecko: Dry, rocky deserts of Afghanistan, Pakistan, and India
- Crested Gecko: Humid forests of New Caledonia (South Pacific)
🌱 Impact:
Leos need warm, dry setups; cresties thrive in moist, vertical enclosures.
🍽️ 2. Diet
- Leopard Gecko: Insectivorous – eats live insects like crickets, mealworms
- Crested Gecko: Omnivorous – eats fruit-based powder diet + optional insects
🥇 Winner for Simplicity: Crested Gecko – no live bugs needed daily
🌡️ 3. Heating & Humidity Needs
| Gecko | Temp Range | Humidity Range |
|---|---|---|
| Leopard Gecko | 88–92°F warm side | 30–40% |
| Crested Gecko | 72–78°F (room temp) | 50–70% |
💡 Note: Leopard geckos require a heat source (UTH or CHE); crested geckos can thrive at room temp (if warm enough).
🛠️ 4. Enclosure Setup
- Leopard Gecko: Horizontal 20-gallon long tank with warm/cool zones
- Crested Gecko: Vertical 18x18x24” enclosure with branches and foliage
🥇 Winner for Simplicity: Leopard Gecko
👶 5. Handling & Temperament
- Leopard Gecko: Calm, ground-dwelling, tolerates gentle handling
- Crested Gecko: Jumpier, arboreal, not ideal for small children
🎯 Tip: Leos are better for kids and beginners who want more interaction.
💵 6. Cost Comparison
| Category | Leopard Gecko | Crested Gecko |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Cost | $40–$80 | $60–$100 |
| Tank Setup | $100–$150 | $100–$200 |
| Monthly Food | $5–$10 | $10–$20 |
🧩 Crested geckos cost more upfront due to live plants, vertical decor, misting tools, etc.
🧬 7. Lifespan & Size
- Leopard Gecko: 7–15 years, 7–10 inches
- Crested Gecko: 10–20 years, 6–8 inches
🎉 Both are long-lived and manageable in size.
🐾 Conclusion: Which Should You Choose?
| Preference | Choose… |
|---|---|
| You want simple care + heat | Leopard Gecko |
| You dislike live insects | Crested Gecko |
| You want to handle your pet | Leopard Gecko |
| You like lush terrariums | Crested Gecko |
| You have a warm room | Crested Gecko |
| You want a “first lizard” | Leopard Gecko |
Both geckos make great beginner pets, and the best choice depends on your space, preferences, and comfort level with live insects.