Updated on August 19, 2022
If you’re frequently spending time in nature at night, you surely know how handy it is to have a night vision monocular helmet mount with you. Aside from providing clear and bright views, this type of monocular can be attached to a helmet and utilized hand-free.
Actually, these are the main reasons why people prefer to get them and utilize them while performing different activities at night, from hunting and camping to observing their surroundings and hiking. Yet the number of offered models on the market increases every year as the brands produce more of these monoculars.
We are here for this reason. What follows are full reviews of some popular night vision monoculars that can be mounted on a helmet and a buying guide with key details to have in mind before making a purchase.
Top 3 Picks: Night Vision Monocular Helmet Mount
BEST VALUE
Gexmil Digital Night Vision Monocular with Helmet Mount
BEST OVERALL
FLIR Breach PTQ136 Multi-Purpose Thermal Imaging Monocular with Helmet Mount
BEST PRICE
TKKOK M60 Night Vision Goggles Monocular with Helmet Mount
9 Night Vision Monocular with Helmet Mount to Choose From
The option to mount a monocular on a helmet is preferable by many nighttime enthusiasts. No matter if they are shooters, hunters or mere observers, they can use their hands for holding the weapon or something else, knowing that the monocular is on their head. Also, this way, they are fully focused on the task at hand, noticing all details through the device.
Understandably, in order to do this, the monocular possesses specific characteristics and features. Depending on them, there are different price ranges. Knowing this, we gathered some of the top night vision monocular helmet mount models and brands here to help you pick the one that suits you best. So, enjoy!
Gexmil Digital Night Vision Monocular with Helmet Mount
As a monocular specifically made to be mounted on the head, it possesses some premium features for night observation. For starters, its lenses are coated in purple and the eyepiece in blue with a film that consists of multiple levels. This leads to improved sharpness and high contrast in the views. Related to this, the infrared source that is incorporated into this model enables the users to observe farther in the night no matter how dark it is. Moreover, it can be adjusted manually to fit the need of the users.
In terms of the design, it has an ergonomic grip that’s not slippery and can absorb shock. The device is made with a wide angle of view, as well. But many users consider the resolution low when compared to some other models on the market.
Have a birdwatching hobby? Check the Best Monoculars for Bird Watching.
FLIR Breach PTQ136 Multi-Purpose Thermal Imaging Monocular with Helmet Mount
Among the most notable features is its infrared emitter. It belongs to a new generation and is able to detect targets from great distances. Also, the IR signals are more accurate.
As for the views, the monocular can be used for viewing in darkness. People even observe the sky and stars through it. Not to mention that its high magnification contributes to the quality, as well together with the optics that are multi-coated. Many people tend to find pleasure in the durable design and armor made of rubber.
Yet they complain about the relatively short warranty period and the price that can be high for some. Also, It doesn’t have digital capabilities, which can come in handy when people want to capture photos and videos during their trips. These are more detailed specifications that shouldn’t be overlooked.
TKKOK M60 Night Vision Goggles Monocular with Helmet Mount
At first glance, it’s clear that this is a camouflage model. This means that it can fit in different surroundings without being easily noticed. Hunters, shooters, and observers of birds or other animals can especially benefit from this.
It has an infrared illuminator that makes the surroundings lighter and the field of view wider. It’s accompanied by the premium lenses with various coatings that provide clear and bright views when the light is low. When it comes to comfortability, they are nice to hold for a longer time and the eyepiece is adjustable for better viewing with and without glasses. Moreover, the hood of the eyepiece consists of materials that are environmentally-friendly, making them softer and more comfortable.
Another detail you should know is that the monocular has digital options for recording videos and taking photos that can later be accessed through multiple devices. Yet users struggle with the focus and the views when it’s totally dark outside. Understandably, the distance that can be observed under these circumstances is shorter.
Different things? Watch 11 Best Thermal Imaging Monocular Models.
SiOnyx Aurora I Full-Color Digital Night Vision Monocular
There is so much more to this monocular than the option to mount it on a helmet and utilize it without hands. The main advantage it has over some of the other similar models is that it provides views in full color at night. Thanks to the infrared sensor technology, the viewing distance expands. And the digital capabilities like Wi-Fi connection and GPS and compass make the whole experience even better. As for durability, this model is waterproof and operates well in different weather conditions.
However, it should be noted that there has to be even a little light coming from somewhere in order for this model to work properly.
Infrared Night Vision Monocular HD Digital Camera
As the name suggests, this monocular has some options that digital cameras do. Moreover, with it, people can capture photos and videos of their trips in nature and then transfer them to other devices through the USB output.
Understandably, it has some other premium details related to the quality of the views and the increased viewing distance. The infrared illuminator contributes to this together with the big digital zoom. What users find as useful is the lifetime warranty, as well. This means that they will get a refund if something goes wrong with the monocular.
But it should be mentioned that users report some downsides, among which is the fact that the green laser dot is visible and that can sometimes chase away the targets while you’re hunting.
Looking for SX40 Digital Monocular? There is a review about 8 Night Vision sx40 Digital Monocular.
Night Owl Xgen Xgenpro 3X Digital Night Vision Viewer
This is a versatile monocular that is suitable for many situations and activities, starting from hunting and camping to security and exploration at night. At first glance, it can be noticed that it’s small in size and compact. Because of this, people can take it with them no matter where they go or for long.
Leaving this aside, it has a frame rate that’s adjustable and an IR illuminator for brightening the surroundings. Also, the focus can be controlled at different distances to ensure high-quality views.
Yet this monocular has a few cons that people mention. Some of them are the trouble to turn off the infrared illumination and the manual focus.
ATN NVM14-2 2nd Generation Night Vision Multi Purpose Monocular
This multi-purpose monocular is known to have a high performance in different circumstances. It’s due to its flexibility that many people can take advantage of its features like military personnel, shooters, hunters, and mere observers of nature.
Its tough and compact design makes it simple to mount on a helmet or weapon while maintaining its durability. Not to mention that it has a control for automatic brightness and an illuminator for better views in low light and dark conditions. Also, it’s easy to control and operate thanks to the visible options.
Despite this, the price of this monocular apparently is a bit high for some users. This is one of the main downsides associated with it. Also you can check my other article if you looking to have for hunting – 8 Best Night Vision Monocular for Hunting.
Vbestlife Night Vision Monocular
Vbestlife offerс this monocular as a model for viewing both during the day and night. For crisp images, it has a CMOS sensor and lenses that are fully coated. These are responsible for increased light transmittance, as well.
Accompanying them is the infrared illuminator. It not only widens the field of view but it leads to bright views that are pleasant to see in black and white without feeling uncomfortable. Other details worth mentioning are the fact that this model has an ergonomic design, it’s small and portable and can resist water.
However, what it lacks is a large magnification. Aside from this, users also say that when mounted on the head, the screen didn’t exactly fit their eye.
SiOnyx Aurora Black I True-Color Digital Night Vision Monocular
With this monocular by their side, people that like to spend more time in nature during the night can do so while observing their surroundings in full colors. This is among the rare models that offer this feature, opposing the traditional green film and the black and white views.
The special IR sensor technology for low light utilization brightens up the images even further, allowing greater visibility of the targets. Another interesting detail is the time-lapse digital option. It literally enables users to speed up the night and film special videos during their trips. Wi-Fi connection is also available together with other transferring options for the captured material on the monocular.
Also, because it’s waterproof, the monocular can be put a few feet into the water. That way, no rain or harsh weather can do harm to its performance. However, as possible downsides, people report the lack of carrying bag and the small SD card capacity.
6 Key Factors to Consider When Buying a Night Vision Device
When you’re looking to buy any kind of product, naturally, you want to find out everything there is to know about. Especially, you want to know about any specific features that can significantly alter the results you’re expecting the product to deliver. This is the case with a night vision monocular helmet mount, too. That’s why we’re here to shed some light on important features to watch out for when browsing night vision monoculars that can be mounted on a helmet.
Compactness
How compact a model is can be determined by its weight and size. Based on what you’ll use it for, a night vision monocular can go from big and heavy to small and light. Of course, these two are the extremes and many models, which are available on the market presently, are situated between the two.
Generally, it’s recommended to look for models that weigh less and are smaller in size. This is especially relevant to the models we’re talking about today – the ones that can be mounted on the helmet.
If they’re bulky, users will most likely have a hard time wearing them on their heads. They can even strain the neck and thus ruin the whole experience. In return, monoculars should be enjoyed, so you can’t go wrong with compact ones.
Infrared Illuminator
Something that separates night vision monoculars from the other types of monocular is infrared technology. Thanks to it, users don’t have trouble observing in low-light conditions and in the dark.
The IR illuminator makes sure that happens. Plenty of models have a built-in IR illuminator. If you want heightened adjustability, consider going for an IR illuminator with multiple output levels. This means that you can choose the output level that both your present needs and the task you execute require.
Light Transmittance
To define the term, it refers to the amount of light that enters the night vision monocular’s lens. As it’s expected, it’s linked to the clarity and brightness of the visuals that the user receives. Typically, light transmittance is measured in percentage. While numerous factors attribute to a certain light transmittance percent of a model, generally, experts have identified the lens, its coatings, as well as, the whole design of the model as some of the key ones.
Battery Life
Having a night vision monocular with an adequate power source can be a relief, especially when you’re outdoors for a long period and in the dark. In these situations, longer battery life plays a crucial role.
Usually, a monocular is powered by AA batteries. Yes, they may limit the user a bit, but they’ve proven as some of the most efficient sources.
With that being said, users now don’t have to worry too much if their monocular ran out of power. Numerous portable power banks have been introduced for additional power as well as for recharging.
Warranty
Night vision monoculars are anything but cheap products. Yes, some can be affordable, but even these can cost you plenty. It isn’t in vain when they say that a quality night vision monocular helmet mount is an investment. So, you’d like to have a backup option in case something bad happens to it. That’s when the warranty pops in.
Looking for models with a warranty no matter the length has become a necessity when shopping for monoculars. Additionally, the common warranty period is around two years. If you can find a model from a manufacturer that offers more years, the better it will be for you.
Accessories
Even though accessories usually aren’t as vital as some features built into the actual night vision monocular, users can significantly benefit from them.
As some kind of a standard, reliable brands frequently include a package of accessories that the buyers get when they purchase their night vision monocular. This package may include a case for carrying and transport of the model, a neck strap, a handful of batteries, as well as a cloth for the cleaning and maintenance of the lens. Some manufacturers provide cables for connecting the product to a TV or even a USB cable, too. You can consider yourself lucky if you get the latter ones together with a quality monocular.
Just make sure that you don’t spend too much cash on accessories that you currently don’t need.
Tips for Night Vision Monocular
Because night vision monoculars can sometimes be rather complex devices for people who haven’t used them before, there are some things that you should and shouldn’t do. Let’s check some of them below.
For starters, before you start using the monocular, you should always read and consult the instructions provided by the manufacturer in the form of a manual. This manual will answer plenty of questions that you may have like if you can use the monocular both during the day and night, various hidden yet useful features, and more.
Also, consider storing the model in a cool and dry place to prevent any damage or diminished performance of the model. Monoculars can easily get dirty. So, make sure you clean them often, especially the lens system. Otherwise, the visuals will turn out grainy and less clear. Another layer of protection for the lens is putting on lens caps.
Now, let’s mention some things you shouldn’t do. The optics like the lens shouldn’t be touched. This can leave traces of debris and ruin the quality of the images. What’s more, users shouldn’t forget to leave the monocular turned on when they aren’t using it. This is an unnecessary waste of power, which you may need afterward.
The same goes for forgetting to put away the batteries when you’re storing the monocular or transporting it. Leaving them inside for a long time can damage the model.
Further, if your model isn’t waterproof, then you should at all costs ensure that the night vision monocular helmet mount stays out of contact with moisture and such.
Learn more: Best cheapest night vision goggles
Final Words
The right night vision monocular helmet mount isn’t as easy to come by. Often people think that some features should be sacrificed on account of the helmet mount option, but in truth, this isn’t the case. Quite the contrary, there are some premium models on the market that offer night vision capabilities that are more efficient than those of some other models. Also, as you could see, each of the top models we discussed has something special to offer in terms of performance, accessories, appearance or features. Even though the price plays a big role in what you get, there are still worthy models in nearly all price ranges.
At the end of the day, which monocular you go for depends on your preferences and expectations. That’s why now we want to hear what you think about all of this. Are you an owner of a night vision monocular that can be mounted on a helmet? Or do you plan to purchase a monocular like this? Share your experience with us.
