Are you looking for the best thermal imaging camera for hunting? If yes, you have come to the right place. We have created this thermal imaging camera buying guide to help you find and navigate the different models available on the market today.
When darkness falls, nocturnal animals like boars, coyotes, and hogs become more active. They show up in areas where they are not welcome and become hard to hunt down if you don’t have the right hunting gear with you. Adding a thermal imaging camera to your hunting toolbox is the best way to revolutionize hunting nocturnal animals in the dark.
The camera will detect the heat these animals radiate and help you see them clearly in the dark. Additionally, thermal imaging cameras have dual day and night functionality for greater versatility. A quality camera will expose a deer or elk that is camouflaged in the bushes and give you a better point of aim when you are hunting during the day.
If you are in a hurry,
Here is a summary of the Best Thermal Imaging Cameras for Hunting.
| 1) FLIR Systems Scout II 320 Thermal Night Vision Monocular
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| 2) Seek Thermal CompactXR – Outdoor Thermal Imaging Camera
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| 3) FLIR Scout TK Handheld Thermal Imaging Monocular
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| 4) FLIR Ocean Scout TK Monocular
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| 5) Hti-Xintai 220 x 160 IR Resolution HTI Thermal Imager
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| 6) Hti-Xintai 320 x 240 IR Infrared Thermal Imaging Camera
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| 7) Seek Shot – All-Purpose Thermal Imaging Camera
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What is a Thermal Imaging Camera?
A thermal imaging camera is a type of camera that uses thermal radiation to create an image. Unlike regular cameras that use light to create an image, thermal cameras detect infrared radiation from an object and use it to form an image. These cameras are usable at any time of the day or night and in a broad range of temperatures where they are able to detect hot and cold spots in an object.
What Makes a Good Thermal Camera for Hunting?
There are several attributes that make a thermal camera good for hunting. Firstly, the camera should have high-quality infrared sensors with good resolution. A camera that has a high resolution will yield crisp clear view image views in all lighting and weather conditions.
Moreover, the camera should have a robust construction to withstand the handling that comes with hunting. On top of that, the camera should be weatherproofed to stay ready for anything Mother Nature might have in store for your hunt.
The best thermal imaging camera for hunting should also have a quick refresh rate, a wide thermal sensitivity range as well as a long detection range. The three features coupled together are a sure way to take your hunting to the next big level.
Last but not least, a good thermal camera for hunting should have a bright LCD display that stays readable even in low-light environments.
Best Thermal Imaging Cameras for Hunting
With the plethora of thermal imaging cameras available on the market today, we have put up a list of the best-rated models to help make your selection process simpler. Let’s take a look.
1) FLIR Systems Scout II 320 Thermal Night Vision Monocular
FLIR Systems Scout II 320 is by far the best thermal imaging camera for hunting, it features a yards detection range,2x zoom, a sleek, lightweight design, and of course its easy-to-use.
It is a thermal night vision monocular that doubles up as a camera for taking photos and recording videos while hunting.
The thermal sensors in this optic are able to detect heat signatures of animals up to 600 yards in any terrain or lighting condition. This makes it ideal for hunting across vast ranges. Furthermore, the monocular features a fixed 2x e-zoom and a large 19mm lens to increase situational awareness.
With the 640 x 480 pixels LCD screen display, this camera provides crisp clear image views for positive target identification. Moreover, it has a rugged body and a weather-resistant shell which provides additional protection from the elements.
What’s more, is that this thermal imaging camera comes with three different video palettes for you to choose from. It also boasts a lightweight and compact body that fits securely in the palm of your hand for ergonomic one-hand operation.
Features
- 19mm lenses
- 600 yards detection range
- 640 x 480 pixels LCD screen
- Weather resistant construction
- 5 hrs battery life
- 9Hz refresh rate
- Fixed 2x e-zoom
- White Hot, Black Hot, and InstAlert detection palettes
- Thermal Sensitivity :<50 mK @ f/1.0
- Size (L x W x H): 6.70″ × 2.31″ × 2.44″
Pros
- Compact and lightweight
- Easy-to-use menu with Zoom, Power, Polarity, and LCD Brightness
- Excellent picture quality
- Durable construction
- Ergonomic design
Cons
- Slow refresh rate
2) Seek Thermal CompactXR – Outdoor Thermal Imaging Camera
If you are looking for a compact, portable, and versatile thermal imaging camera, you have found it in the Seek Thermal CompactXR. This outdoor thermal imaging camera is reasonably affordable and ideal for a multitude of outdoor applications including hunting.
This camera has a thermal sensitivity of 70mK and a 206 x 156 thermal sensor that provides crisp views of targets in dark and low-light environments. On top of that, it has a detection range of up to 1800 feet which makes it ideal for hunting across vast ranges.
With a temperature detection range of -40 to 626℉, this camera is spotting predators across different environments. Moreover, it boasts a spacious field of view for quick and easy target finding and a focusable lens for fine-tuning the thermal images of the predators.
More importantly, the camera is built to last. It has a compact body that is rigidly built to be resistant to shock, drops and rough handling. Also included is a pocket-sized waterproof carrying case that ensures safe storage when not in use and easy carrying in the hunting field.
Features
- 1800 feet detection range
- -40F° to 626°F temperature detection range
- 206 x 156 thermal sensor
- Focusable lens
- Durable construction
- Pocket-sized waterproof carrying case
- 9Hz frame rate
- Photos & Videos
- 10 Color Palettes
- Auto Mode
Pros
- Compact and lightweight design
- Large field of view
- Comes with a waterproof case
- Durable construction
- Inexpensive
- Good battery life
- Compatible with iPhones and Android
Cons
- No manual Mode
3) FLIR Scout TK Handheld Thermal Imaging Monocular
FLIR Scout TK Thermal Imaging Monocular is a handheld thermal device built for use at night and in low light conditions. It makes a perfect companion for hunting coyotes, hogs, and other predators when they are active at night.
This thermal imaging device has a compact design for easy one-hand operation and lightweight construction to ensure easy handling during use. In addition to that, it has a simple four-button design and an intuitive interface that makes it easy to use.
The detection range of this product is 100 yards in typical nighttime environments where it produces clear views of the targets in any lighting or weather condition. Furthermore, the monocular also works as a camera which you can use to capture images or record videos of your hunting trip.
Features
- Three different color palettes
- -4°F to 104°F (-20°C to 40°C) operating temperature range
- 5 hours battery life
- 100 yards maximum detection range
- Vox microbolometer detector
- 9Hz refresh rate
- 640 x 480 LCD display
- 160 x 120 resolution
- Size: 6.0″x2″x2″
- Detector: VOx Microbolometer
Pros
- Lightweight and portable design
- Simple to operate
- Compact and waterproof
- Great thermal sensitivity
Cons
- None
4) FLIR Ocean Scout TK Monocular
Next on our list of the best thermal imaging camera for hunting is the FLIR Ocean Scout TK Monocular. The monocular has a thermal detection range of about 100 yards in the dark and is ideal for use in all kinds of lighting and weather conditions. It is also a perfect tool for capturing images and recording videos while hunting.
The selling point of this monocular is the lightweight design. It has a mere weight of 6 ounces only to ensure easy portability in the field. The lightweight design paired with the compact body makes the monocular perfect for hunting in different terrains.
Moreover, the Ocean Scout TK Monocular is made ready for hunting. It has a tough and rigid body to withstand anything thrown at it. It is also fully weatherproof for use even in adverse weather conditions.
Features
- Multiple color palettes
- Weatherproofed body
- 5+ hrs battery life
- 9 Hz Refresh rate
- 100 yards detection range
- Built-in video recording
- Manual focus
- Built-in rechargeable battery
- Up to 1000 thermal snapshots storage
Pros
- User-friendly design
- Lightweight, compact, and portable
- High-quality construction
Cons
- Short detection range
5) Hti-Xintai 220 x 160 IR Resolution HTI Thermal Imager
The Hti-Xintai HT-18 is built with a high resolution of 220 x 160 to maximize image clarity and quality in all hunting environments. It is simple to use even for the beginners in hunting and comes with an image overlay that creates a perfect fusion of thermal images and normal images.
To complement the impressive resolution, this camera also comes with a 3.2” full-color display screen that is easy to read in all lighting conditions. Furthermore, it is built with 5 different color palettes for you to tailor the camera to suit your color preference.
For added convenience, the camera has a lightweight design of 0.83 pounds only and comes with a travel pouch for easy storage and transportation. Additionally, it comes with a free 3GB built-in memory card that provides plenty of room to store the videos recorded and images captured. The camera also boasts a built-in rechargeable 18650 battery that provides up to 3 hours of continuous runtime when charged fully.
Features
- 5 different color palettes (Rainbow, Iron Red, Cold Color, Black and White, or White and Black)
- 3.2” full-color display screen
- Built-in rechargeable battery
- 3 or 4GB built-in memory card
- 220 x 160 resolution
- 2.5°F Accuracy
Pros
- Ergonomic handle with a comfortable grip
- Outdoor and Indoor use
- Affordable and easy to use
- Versatile
- Lightweight and portable
Cons
- Depletes battery quickly
6) Hti-Xintai 320 x 240 IR Infrared Thermal Imaging Camera
Another best thermal imaging camera for hunting on our list is the Hti-Xintai HT-19. This is a high-quality hand-held thermal imaging camera built for a wide range of applications both in the military and civilian industries.
Built with an improved 320 x 240 resolution, the camera yields crystal-clear image views in any hunting environment. The images formed are displayed on the large 3.2” full-angle TFT display that is intuitive and simple to use. On top of that, the camera comes with 5 different color palettes that make it more versatile.
The emissivity of this thermal imaging camera is adjustable to provide the most accurate measurements possible. Besides, you can use the camera to take measurements of the predators in different temperatures ranging from -20°C to 300 °C.
Features
- 5 color palettes
- Built-in rechargeable battery
- 2” full-angle TFT display
- Built-in 3GB memory card
- Adjustable emissivity
- 320 x 240 resolution
- 2 to 3 hours battery life
Pros
- Extremely accurate temperature readings
- Lightweight and simple to use
- Multiple color palettes
- Ideal for use in a wide range of environments
Cons
- Short battery life
7) Seek Shot – All-Purpose Thermal Imaging Camera
When it comes to versatility and performance the Seek Shot All Purpose Thermal Imaging Camera is hard to beat. The camera boasts a super sensitive 206 x 156 thermal sensor that yields high-quality image views in any lighting and weather condition.
Complementing the high resolution is a large 36° field of view which is vital when hunting as it aids in quick target finding. Additionally, the camera is built with thermography tools that analyze the information of every photo instantly and seek fusion technology that brings together thermal and normal images to provide the best details of the targets.
Another feature that makes this hand-held thermal camera ideal for hunting is its energy efficiency. It runs on a rechargeable battery that is not just quick to recharge, but also ideal for long hunting sessions as it provides continuous runtime for a couple of hours.
The other essential features of this camera include 8 different color palettes, 4 emissivity presets, and a large color touchscreen that is easy to read in all lighting conditions.
Features
- 206 x 156 thermal sensor
- Large touchscreen display
- Wi-Fi connectivity and streaming
- 8 color palettes
- 9Hz refresh rate
- 4 Emissivity presets
- 3 customizable spot temperatures
- Seek fusion technology
- Rechargeable battery
- 36° Field of View
Pros
- Wide field of view
- Stunning power efficiency
- Clear picture quality
- Great value for money
Cons
- Slow refresh rate
Related: 8 Best Thermal Cameras for Electronics Repair
Considerations for the Best Thermal Imaging Camera for Hunting
Detection Range
The thermal detection range in thermal imaging cameras varies from one product to the other. Look for a camera that has a long detection range of over 100 yards in typical nighttime environments. Such a camera will give you the flexibility to look for game in different ranges across vast hunting environments.
Resolution
The best thermal imaging camera for hunting has a high resolution to ensure that the sight pictures it provides are clear from edge to edge. With high resolution, a hunter will be able to identify the game they are hunting positively and quickly in any hunting environment.
Refresh Rate
The next thing to consider is the refresh rate/ frame rate. The refresh rate shows how many times the camera refreshes the images in every second. When hunting, the higher the refresh rate a camera has the better. You will be able to keep track of the game with ease, especially when they are moving.
Operating Temperature
Thermal imaging cameras work by detecting the thermal radiation that objects emit. For hunting, you will want a device that is built to be operable in all seasons. A camera that is built to operate in cold and hot conditions will be available for use in all seasons. A tip is to get a product that operates in temperatures ranging from -20°C to 400 °C.
Battery Life
The other thing to consider is battery life. Most thermal imaging cameras have built-in rechargeable batteries but the capacity of each battery varies widely from one product to the other. The best thermal imaging camera for hunting has a battery that is quick to recharge and provides over 3 hours of continuous use when fully charged.
FAQs
Why thermal imaging cameras for hunting?
Thermal imaging cameras are very effective in detecting and tracking animals by detecting their body heat even in complete darkness.
What are the Most Important Considerations when Choosing Hunting Thermal Cameras?
Consider factors such as the range of the camera, the resolution of the image, the battery life, and the durability of the camera. Also, consider the size and weight of the camera and whether it is portable enough for your hunting needs.
Are there legal restrictions on Hunting thermal imaging cameras?
It depends on where you live and what you are hunting. Some countries or states have restrictions on using thermal imaging cameras for hunting certain species or during certain seasons. Be sure to check your local hunting regulations before using a thermal imaging camera for hunting.
Final Thoughts
Getting a thermal imaging camera for hunting is a great way to take your hunting to the next big level. These tools are built to work in any lighting or weather condition where they not only simplify target acquisition but also increase situational awareness in the dark.
Hopefully, you have found the information in this article to be insightful and you are now able to find the right thermal camera for your hunting needs.