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Best Infrared Binoculars Reviews and Tested
It gives you a real advantage over your target, allowing you to see them through the pitch-black forest. Sometimes, even the moonlight isn’t enough to guide your way out in the forest. Since many hogs and varmints appear at night, the technology of night vision could be a helpful accessory at desperate times.
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Use
The first thing we looked at was the quality of the products in the daytime. This included how they operated in zoomed modes, how crisp the image was from a distance, and if there were any issues with following a target while zoomed.
Preference was given to the infrared binoculars that had a wide field of view since they were perfect when covering large areas of land at once. Some really popped in the daytime when it came to showing off colors and were considered standouts. None of the models performed badly, which is why the second thing we tested for was the performance in the dark. This is where a lot of models got cut from the list, and it is exactly how the bulk of our top ten was formed.
With all of the infrared binoculars performing well in the daytime, we expected similar functionality at night. This separated some of the weaker infrared units from the others, leaving only approved products that could see in the dark. The remaining models were also able to zoom in during infrared mode, showing off great internal power when following a target. Regardless of generation, this was one of the best features of all infrared binoculars on the list.
Comfort
Comfort came into play since some of the models on the list can be worn like goggles. Binoculars like the Firefield Tracker are much different than the other choices on the list, and in some ways belongs in its own category. Even with accessories in play, there is really nothing that can meet the comfort qualification of being worn right out of the box.
So rather than just hand the top spot to Firefield, we rated comfort on multiple levels; ease of use, quality of the binoculars in your hands, weight, and size. This formula explains how Firefield ended up in the third spot rather than number one- it was too bulky for the average user that just wanted simple infrared binoculars.
After looking at the current order of the list, branding was our next step. We looked at the overall brand image and customer support of the applicable company. This was an interesting criterion to probe since it reordered some of the top spots. Most customers would expect the big names like Nikon to dominate in this category, but it was quite the opposite.
A lot of the smaller companies had a wave of positive reviews from customers, magazines and even from within the industry. So with branding, it wasn’t as clear cut as it should have been. This was a real eye-opener moving forward and really influenced how the rest of the criteria was chosen.
Value
Price was clear cut from the start, so ordering the list with value in mind didn’t take too long. The key was to reorder it without punishing a product for having a higher than normal price. We set a base price that was considered average for the industry, and then reordered. Infrared binoculars that had the same features but were higher than that average were dropped down in favor of their cheaper competitors. There wasn’t a lot of movement when we ordered by price, but the small shakeup made sense considering the list is aimed at giving consumers the best deal. Features was the second to last criteria we looked at, which was one of the harder calls to make. As mentioned before, a lot of the infrared binoculars are close in quality. When we looked at the features, the top three on the list represented companies that took innovation a step further than the others. Whether this was through improving infrared images, or even prolonging battery life, their small improvements were enough to separate them from the rest of the pack.
Effectiveness
One of the very first things you would want to consider when buying your first pair of night vision binoculars is the image quality. It has to crisp, clear without distortion, and with excellent resolution and also high-definition. A great pair of night vision binoculars will provide with a green monochrome picture of the scene in front of you with a little blur towards the edges but clear at the center. Plus, the night vision contrasts will allow you to see dark objects set against dark environments.
Accuracy
Your night vision technology needs to be able to magnify a potential image and the light available when you want to see an object which is at a farther distance from you. The strength of magnification, the size of the lens, resolution, visual field, and focus range are some of the most important features to consider in a night vision binocular.
It is also prudent to understand the specifications used to describe the range of detection of the binoculars. Usually, binoculars have two numbers on them to describe their focus range capability. For example, 2 x 24 – here the first number tells you how many times a scene is magnified while the second number defines the diameter of the objective lens in your night vision binoculars.
10 Best Infrared Binoculars
1. Night Owl Pro
Featuring a field view of 200ft at 53ft the Night Owl Pro Nexgen Night Vision offer the brand’s professional and sturdy aesthetic without breaking the bank. When seeking a new binocular, you want something that can get the job done without compromising the view, it's all about how clear and far you can see. These infrared binoculars do just that and more.
Exceptional Clarity
Any active hunter will tell you once of the most important feature your binoculars must have is clarity. Having clarity is not only important as it allows you to see from a large distance, but it ensures you always have your best eye on your prey. Even when you view your setting in minimal lighting you will still be getting the best view possible. Furthermore, the clarity will be enhanced further once you turn on the IR illuminator. When the IR is on you will get a larger overall range and when the IR is off your distance view will increase. Its all about creating a balance that gives you the greatest effect.
Impressive Lens
To provide quality, clarity the Night Owl Pro paired their exceptional clarity with impressive lenses. Constructed out of high-quality glass, paired with a durable casing, these lenses come prepared to see even the tiniest of details. Its all about seeing things crystal clear and these allow you to do just that. Subsequently, these binoculars come with 5 times magnification that provides little to no distortion.
Cost and Value
As stated in the beginning, these are well worth the price. You are getting overall quality paired with an exceptional price. It’s all about getting what you need from a binocular and knowing the brand has your back, this one is just that-quality, ingenuity, and durability all at once.
2. Jielin BAK4
Specialized engineering materials, ergonomic design, and multi-coated optics – the Jielin BAK4 is designed to perform regardless of the environment. The premium BAK4 prisms and all-optical glass lenses offer clear crisp images with improved light transmission.
Image Quality
Good light transmittance, no color difference, a low refractive index which can effectively reduce the eye fatigue. Thanks to the all-optical glass lens, the image is more clear and bright, even in weak light settings, images can be pretty clear and fairly visible.
Versatile
Many people have the idea in their mind that most of these are used solely for hunting. These will make you change your mind for sure. You can use them for multiple reasons such as birdwatching or watching your favorite sporting event from the nose bleed section.
Cost and Value
These Jielin BAK4 are cost-effective with a mid-range price tag, that is actually quite affordable when you have such a high-quality item like this one.
3. Firefield Tracker FF25025
The Firefield Tracker performs incredibly well even in low light conditions providing a crisp, detailed field of view without compromising visibility.
Performance
The IR illuminator makes it easy to see in the dark; the illuminator emits an energy-efficient pulsing frequency for prolonged battery life, which means improved performance and durability.
Easy to Carry
It’s extremely lightweight and designed to last a lifetime of use. Unless you’re willing to spend a hefty sum for a Gen II device, you can’t beat the quality and price for this piece of accessory.
Cost and Value
This Firefield Tracker FF25025 is one of the most expensive items on our guide, this is mainly due to how much you are actually getting and how powerful these binoculars are. You want to keep in mind that these binoculars are created for a more advanced user.
4. Candora
The Candora Portable Night Vision Binoculars provides sharp, crisp optical performance at a budget-friendly value, plus it is extremely lightweight and compact making it easy to carry around, making it an ideal go-to accessory for hunters and campers alike.
Durable Yet Functional
The rugged design makes it a great fit for just any extreme condition and the high-res optics make it a great choice for nature enthusiasts. It provides decent visibility in the low light conditions.
Portable Design
Compact and easy to carry, you’ll have no problem carrying them around in your bag or strapped around your neck. Additionally, the comfortable design means you can use them all day.
Cost and Value
When it comes to affordability, these binoculars are one of the best. They're extremely affordable yet are built out of exceptional quality.
5. YISHU
Unique design with a wide-angle view and unmatched performance along with a ton of top-notch features make the YISHU an ideal go-to accessory for the great outdoors. It performs really well in any extreme environment making it a real deal-breaker amongst seasoned hunters.
The View
It seems like you're watching through a really powerful telescope with a great field of view with very crisp and sharp focusing. It's a great deal for the bird watchers who take their hobby a little too seriously.
Adjusting
With a simple design comes simple adjustments. You can roll your finger over the dial to adjust as your target moves. Giving you a better quality of viewing.
Cost and Value
When it comes to affordability, this is another option. These YISHU binoculars are extremely affordable while providing crisp, clear vision and top-notch features.
6. Feihe
The Feihe is a nice, versatile pair of infrared binoculars with a wide field view and an incredible 20x magnification which make bird watching a breeze. The sturdy design and a great night viewing ability make the Feihe an ideal choice for hunting and bird watching.
Vision
The multi-coated optics make for an extended field of view and better visibility even in low light conditions. Making these perfect for watching the birds take flight at night.
Comfort
The easy-carry case with a shoulder strap makes carrying your binoculars a breeze. Plus the rubber-protected caps are attached on the large end so that the caps on the small end can be easily attached to the neck strap.
Cost and Value
These Feihe binoculars are priced quite fairly, in an affordable manner. Featuring 20x magnification these truly give you what you need at a great price point.
7. Night Owl Explorer
The high-resolution Night Owl Explorer combines superior performance and robust features to provide the best viewing experience when you're out there in the wild outdoors. State-of-the-art Russian optics combined with superb magnification make it stand out.
Viewing Performance
The image intensifier tubes allow for better precision and unmatched performance. Multi-coated glass optics with layers of metal oxides and fluorides provide an incredible viewing experience. Image sharpness is excellent in the center of the field of view and much less so at the edges, like any other IIT night vision devices.
Body Design
It provides you with both portability and functionality. The body is surrounded by rubber for a more relaxed and comforting feel. No more carrying around clunky equipment with design choices such as this.
Cost and Value
Featuring superior performance and even better vision, these binoculars are known as Night Owl Explorer are the most expensive on our guide. The price might be pretty high but they are well worth it due to how many features you are receiving.
8. Bushnell Legend L-Series
Known for manufacturing quality optical products Bushnell outdid themselves once again with their Bushnell Legend L-Series. The product comes equipped to handle a beating, constructed out of rubberized covering, you not only get the durable exterior, but you have an additional layer that helps product from cracking if your device does fall.
Image Quality
When purchasing quality binoculars, you want to ensure you purchase an item that has superior imagery. Its all about what you can see and how clear you can see it. The Bushnell Legend L-Series can do both, you can see great images and take exceptional photos as well. This is all thanks to its built-in ambient infrared illumination. Having this feature ensures you can see crystal clear even in the dimmest light. Furthermore, these binoculars bring you closer to your prey without having to move.
Runs on 4 AA Batteries
Having a pair of binoculars who runs on batteries is always a great idea. Not only are batteries easy to find, but if your binoculars happen to die you can always simply replace the battery and be back in business. Contrary to infrared binoculars who need to be electronically charged, battery-operated ones will always be ready for use when you need them most. Keep in mind, the quality of your battery will affect how often they need to be replaced.
Cost and Value
As for the cost and value of this item, it is a bit on the pricier end. However, you are getting a durable, quality product that works exceptionally well with the simple use of 4 AA batteries. Bushnell does not disappoint with this one.
9. Bushnell 260501
Now lights up your nights with the very handy and versatile Bushnell 260501 Equinox Z Digital Night Vision Binoculars. With its outstanding field of view, high-performance optics, low-light viewing, and extra long battery life, nothing deals with the unknowns of the great wilderness like the Bushnell.
The Perks
The IR binoculars feature an extra-durable waterproof housing, plus it has tripod mounting capabilities and glass objectives. It boasts of image stability, video recording and daytime color team with its supercharged digital NV technology.
Water-Resistant
The outside casing of these provides some resistance to water. Which is perfect for those times you get caught in the rain. Water-resistance can reduce the amount of fogging in your lense that moisture tends to cause.
Cost and Value
These high-performance optics with low light viewing are a bit more expensive than most on our guide, but they offer so much at the end the price seems a bit less offensive.
10. DAXGD
With the 8 x magnification with an eye range up to 9800 feet with a 16.4 field of view with 50 mm lens diameter that was designed with ultra wide-angle optics system, the DAXGD Binocular allows you to see well in the daylight.
Clear View
The HD LLL night vision allows you to see in very low light situations. Which allows you to step out and enjoy watching the creatures that come out at night.
Comfort Features
The eyepieces are soft and comfortable, and you’d definitely appreciate the rubber finger grips on both sides of the binoculars for maximum comfort, grip, and ease of use. It’s extremely lightweight weighing only 2.2 pounds so they are perfect for toting around or hang by your neck, especially when you're hiking, biking, or hunting.
Cost and Value
Coming at another affordable option these binoculars are great to have, not only is the price great but they are sturdy and offer far eye range with great magnification.
Sources
- , Night Vision,
- , The 10 Best Night Vision Binoculars of 2019, Buying Guide
