Thermal Binoculars

Thermal binoculars: what to look for

When choosing thermal binoculars, there are several key factors to consider to ensure you get the best performance and value for your needs. Here are the main aspects to look for:

1. Resolution

• Sensor Resolution: Higher resolution sensors (e.g., 640x480) provide more detailed images and better target identification than lower resolution sensors (e.g., 384x288).
• Display Resolution: Higher resolution displays (e.g., AMOLED with 1024x768) ensure clearer and more detailed images.

2. Magnification

• Optical Magnification: Provides a true zoom without pixelation, ideal for detailed observations.
• Digital Magnification: Allows for zooming in on the image but can lead to pixelation and loss of image quality at higher levels.

3. Detection Range

• Range: The maximum distance at which the binoculars can detect a heat signature. This varies with different models and can range from 1,000 meters to over 2,000 meters.

4. Lens Quality

• Objective Lens Diameter: Larger lenses (e.g., 50mm) gather more heat energy, providing better detection and image quality, especially in low-contrast conditions.

5. Refresh Rate

• Frequency: Higher refresh rates (e.g., 50 Hz) provide smoother and more consistent images, especially when tracking moving objects.

6. Field of View (FOV)

• Wide FOV: Essential for scanning large areas quickly, whereas a narrower FOV is better for detailed observations.

7. Image and Video Recording

• Built-In Recorder: Allows capturing images and videos for later review. Check for internal storage capacity and external storage options (e.g., microSD cards).

8. Battery Life

• Operational Time: Consider the battery life, especially for extended missions or outdoor use. Some models offer external battery pack options for extended use.

9. Ruggedness and Durability

• Build Quality: Ensure the binoculars are built to withstand harsh conditions, including being waterproof, dustproof, and impact-resistant.

10. Additional Features

• Laser Rangefinder (LRF): Provides precise distance measurements to targets.
• Wi-Fi and Bluetooth: For live streaming, remote control, and firmware updates.
• Color Palettes: Various color schemes to enhance image contrast and detail based on specific applications.

11. Weight and Ergonomics

• Portability: Lightweight models are easier to carry and use for extended periods.
• Comfort: Ergonomic design with comfortable grips and easy-to-access controls.

12. Brand and Warranty

• Reputation: Choose reputable brands known for quality and reliability, such as Pulsar.
• Warranty: Ensure the product comes with a good warranty and customer support.

Popular Pulsar Thermal Binocular Models

• Pulsar Accolade 2 LRF XP50 Pro: Offers high resolution, long detection range, and integrated laser rangefinder.
• Pulsar Merger LRF XP50: Combines advanced image processing, dual Wi-Fi channels, and built-in photo and video recording.

Conclusion

When selecting thermal binoculars, prioritize the features most important to your specific needs, such as resolution, detection range, and additional functionalities like a laser rangefinder or image recording. Balancing these features with your budget will help you find the best thermal binoculars for your applications.

Thermal Binocular vs Thermal Monocular

Thermal binoculars are ordinary thermal imaging devices, just like monoculars or scopes and clip-on systems. The only change is in the physical form as they allow the person to use both eyes. That means that thermal imaging binocular use two displays or only one display in combination with a system of prisms. But there is no actual difference in resolution or technologies employed.

People were meant to use both eyes for seeing. Thermal imaging binocular, therefore, enable the most natural viewing experience. But does that also mean the binocular form is the absolute best choice for everyone?

There are many conflicting opinions as to which device form is the best. One thing that works in binoculars’ favor is that all thermal imaging devices use bright displays. Users of devices that only require one eye for observations face an obvious problem. Only one of their pupils dilates when looking at a bright display, while the other remains contracted due to the low light natural environment and for the user, this artificial contrast can be slightly uncomfortable or even disorienting. Binoculars solve that issue since the user employs both eyes and with that, there’s is no difference in pupil diameters.

Still, some hunters claim that monoculars enable a faster transition from observing to shooting. That’s because they use one eye for thermal monocular and another to look into the riflescope. In that case, they don’t have to wait a moment before both of their eyes accommodate to ambient light. This is not true for everyone. There are people with a strong left or right eye preference, choosing to use the same side for looking both through the imager and through the scope. In that case, the contrast between bright display to dark riflescope view-through is quite startling. 

In the end, the choice between thermal binoculars and monoculars simply comes down to the user’s personal preference.

What’s also interesting is that some thermal binoculars intentionally mimic the use and handling of classic mechanical binoculars. They utilize a focusing wheel in the center and diopter compensation rings around both eyepieces that are no different than the ones on daytime binoculars. Some even allow the user to adjust the interpupillary distance. But they are much more heavy-duty, created to withstand inclement elements. The disadvantage of binoculars is in the added weight and bulkier form. Monoculars are much handier and easier to carry around.

There is also an obvious difference when comparing the prices. Thermal binoculars are also more expensive than other devices of this type. They tend to cost about 600 or 1000 euros more than a monocular device of comparable capabilities. The reason behind the price increase is the addition of another display, a second eyepiece and there’s also bigger magnesium housing. Obviously, all that added comfort costs extra.