How to choose a suitable thermal imaging sight for oneself?
2025-10-22
17
Choosing a thermal imaging scope that suits oneself requires comprehensive consideration of the following factors:
Resolution: Resolution determines the clarity of imaging, and there are common settings on the market such as 256 × 192, 384 × 288, and 640 × 480. The higher the resolution, the clearer the image, but the price is also relatively higher. If you need to accurately identify targets from a long distance, it is recommended to choose products with a resolution of 640 × 480; If only used for close range observation or with limited budget, a 384 × 288 resolution thermal imaging sight can usually meet the requirements.
Thermal Sensitivity (NETD): Thermal sensitivity reflects the ability of a device to detect small temperature changes. The smaller the value, the higher the thermal sensitivity, the smaller the temperature difference that can be detected, and the stronger the level of imaging. However, there may also be more false targets. Generally speaking, thermal sensitivity of 20-50mK is more commonly used.
Field of view and focal length: The field of view determines the coverage range of a single observation, while the focal length affects the distance of the observation. Usually, the longer the focal length, the smaller the field of view, and the farther one can see but the narrower the range; The shorter the focal length, the larger the field of view, making it suitable for close range and wide range search. For example, in close range environments such as jungles, a sight with a larger field of view and shorter focal length can be chosen, such as a 384 resolution with a 15mm lens; In scenes such as plains that require remote observation, products with 25mm or 35mm lenses can be selected.
Lens aperture: The aperture size affects the amount of light entering. The smaller the aperture value, the greater the amount of light entering, and the heat source will be more prominent and clear. For example, a lens with an aperture of F0.8 has a 56% increase in light intake compared to an F1.0 lens, allowing for more details of the target to be seen. Therefore, when choosing, a lens with a larger aperture should be given priority.
-* * Usage scenarios: Different usage scenarios have different requirements for thermal imaging sights. If used for close range operations in jungles, hills, etc. with a range of up to 80 meters, a 35mm lens sight can be selected; If shooting at a distance of over 100 meters is frequently carried out in plain areas, a 50mm lens sight is more suitable.
Functional requirements: Some thermal imaging sights may have recording, electric focusing, picture in picture, and other functions. If you need to record the observation process or have high requirements for the convenience of operating the sight, you can choose products with corresponding functions.
Budget: The price of thermal imaging sights varies greatly, ranging from several thousand yuan to tens of thousands of yuan. When choosing, it is important to determine the appropriate product based on your actual budget and avoid blindly pursuing high-end products that exceed your budget.
Equipment reliability and protection level: If used in complex outdoor environments, it is necessary to choose a thermal imaging sight with a higher protection level, such as IP67 or above, to ensure that the equipment has good performance in terms of waterproofing, dust prevention, shock resistance, etc.