Top 10 Thermal Night Vision Goggles – What You Need To Know!

While people are observing moving creatures at night, they require the right thermal night vision goggles. These are advanced gadgets that are packed with features for maximizing the brightness and the overall experience.

One of the key details is the ability to discover the temperature of people and animals. That way they can show their whereabouts. This comes in handy when you go out to shoot, hunt, hike, camp, and simply watch the surroundings. Especially, in the darkness, it can be hard to spot some details, which is a reason more people want to buy night vision goggles.

However, it’s a fact that the market consists of many models. The brands compete among themselves to offer more options at affordable prices. So, understandably they sacrifice something for the other. This leaves customers with no choice but to explore the products and pick the right one based on their own preferences. Luckily, we are here to land a hand with this. In the complete reviews and buying guide that follow, we’ll turn to the notable features you should consider. Also, we’ll show you how to recognize worthy models. If you’re ready, let’s commence.

Our Recommend

BEST VALUE

GTHUNDER Digital Night Vision Goggles

GTHUNDER Digital Night Vision Goggles
Objective lens: 25 millimeters
Magnification: 3 times
Size of the screen: 3 inches
Memory of the SD card: 32 GB
Colors: users can pick between black and green

BEST OVERALL

EyeClops Night Vision Infrared Stealth Goggles

EyeClops Night Vision Infrared Stealth Goggles
Viewing distance in total darkness: 50 feet
Weight: 1 pound
Batteries: 5 AA batteries are needed
Dimensions: 7 x 10 x 12 inches
Color: black

BEST PRICE

Coolife Night Vision Goggles

Coolife Night Vision Goggles
Objective lens: 25 millimeters
Magnification: 3 times
Digital zoom: 4 times
Infrared levels: 7
Size of the screen: 2.31 inches
Capacity of the SD card: 32 GB

The 10 Best Thermal Night Vision Goggles

As we mentioned earlier, different brands provide different features for the price. Although many of them intertwine, there are some goggles that are better than the rest. Whether it’s the lens or the armor, something helps them rise up above the others. Through these reviews, we’ll try to present some of those models to you. We will incorporate the positive and the negative sides together with detailed specifications.

Read more: Best cheap rated night vision Goggles

Lovinouse Premium Night Vision Goggles

Magnification: 7 times
Digital zoom: 4 times
Diameter of objective lens: 31 millimeters
Viewing distance: 984 feet
Size of the LCD screen: 2.31 inches
Weight: 2.07 pounds

As the name suggests, these are goggles with premium features. Predominantly, these have to do with their options for day and night utilization. Even when the surroundings are totally dark, the goggles can present a picture. This is thanks to the LED IR illuminator that brightens up the space further. Moreover, it has 7 levels that can be adjusted based on the light around you.

It isn’t alone though. This model has a nice magnification and optical zoom to assist with this. Not to mention that they continuously operate no matter how many options are on. This enables users to observe without pauses. Also, it’s worth mentioning that the goggles have digital capabilities. For one, they have an LCD screen for clear previews. On it, you can access the recorded and captured content, as well. Later, you can connect a USB cable and transfer everything to another device.

However, people report some downsides. The main one is about the SD card and batteries not being included. This not only represents an additional cost but it’s time-consuming for some people, too.

EyeClops Night Vision Infrared Stealth Goggles

Viewing distance in total darkness: 50 feet
Batteries: 5 AA batteries are needed
Dimensions: 7 x 10 x 12 inches
Weight: 1 pound
Color: black

EyeClops gives users a chance to experience the night in a new light. These stealth goggles are equipped with features needed for a high-quality image in the dark. For this reason, they are useful companions during camping, hiking trips, and the likes.

With the special infrared technology, the surroundings can brighten up far ahead. This helps you view details without a strain in the eyes. Additionally, you can choose between observing in green color or black and white. This is done with a single switch. Connected to this, the goggles in general are simple to utilize. And all their options are accessible through the buttons. They are work on a headset that comes with them and have an LED light that can be turned on and off as needed.

Despite all features, they are lightweight and both children and adults can wear them. Not to mention that their rubber armor is durable and comfortable. Yet a possible mentioned downside is the fact that a manual was missing. Due to this, users had trouble discovering exactly how to put them on and utilize all functions it possesses.

DALI S730 Night Vision Thermal Goggles

Digital zoom: 2 times
Diameter of lens: 75 millimeters
Resolution of the OLED display: 800 x 600
Weight: 1.54 kilograms
Battery time: 3 hours of non-stop utilization

These thermal goggles can be used in all places at night. Harsh environments aren’t the exception. For this purpose, they are made to be durable with a tough design. Still, they manage to maintain a low weight. That’s why they can be carried around everywhere you go.

To increase the quality of the views, this model has a large field of view. It can cover many feet ahead of the user, leaving them with an idea of what to expect. In terms of technology, there is an OLED screen for showing the images. It goes together with the options to take photos and record videos of what you see. Thanks to this, those memories can stay with you and be transferred across more devices.

Finally, it provides a view on both eyes, which makes it more comfortable. But there are some downsides to have in mind. The main one is about the price being too high for many users.

VForce Grill Terrain Thermal Goggles

Weight: 1.85 pounds
Dimensions: 10.2 x 8.1 x 7.6 inches
Color of the lens: more options are available like yellow, mirrored, smoked or chromatic tints
Hard Target design

These goggles have a special thermal lens incorporated in them. It enables them to read the temperature of living creatures and show the viewers where they are located. Due to this, they can be utilized for a wide range of activities that involve moving targets.

More precisely, the optics are made to resist scratches and fog. They don’t show distorted images, either. In fact, users shouldn’t worry about this product getting damaged easily. For extra protection, it has an area made of rubber at the center for ensuring the bouncing factor is maximized.

Aside from this, the lenses are adjustable. And they can adapt to the changing light conditions outside. This comes in handy to many people that want to use the goggles at different times of the day. Yet, there are some downsides you should know. One of them is the lack of digital options like recording videos and taking photos.

Spy Net Ultra Night Vision Goggles

Weight: 2.85 pounds
Photo capacity: 2000 photos
Video capacity: maximum of 20 minutes
Viewing distance in absolute darkness: 50 feet
Dimensions: 11.87 x 4.37 x 12.37 inches

These goggles look like they come right out of a video game. But they are very real and have some useful features for observing at night. They can be used even for operations that involve gathering evidence.

Mainly, this is because they are equipped with options to record videos and take many photos. They are in high-quality with visible details from afar. No matter if it’s completely dark outside or there is light, they deliver a satisfactory performance.
What’s more, they have their own screen where users can preview what they have captured. And all those materials can be further transferred on a personal computer, laptop, tablet, and similar devices. Yet some users report troubles with the weight and the fact that an SD card is needed but not included in the package.

SpyX Night Mission Goggles

Viewing distance in the dark: 25 feet
Weight: 4.2 ounces
Batteries required: 3 AAA batteries
Dimensions: 6 x 2.36 x 3 inches
Color: black with blue glass

As a part of a headset, these night vision goggles are easy and comfortable to wear. They even have a scope that can be flipped out for utilization during the day.

To make the experience more magical, they incorporate two LED lights. Because of this, the space around you gains additional light. Not to mention that the field of view in the dark is also nice. It enables users to perform various activities without bothering that they may miss something in their close surroundings.

As for the needed power, this product runs on AAA batteries. And its weight is very low. Therefore, children and youngsters can find pleasure in it, as well.

Still, a possible downside to have in mind is the head strap getting loose often.

Empire X-Ray V2.1 Thermal PROtector Goggle

Weight: 2.45 pounds
Color: black
360 degrees protection
Dimensions: 13.9 x 12.6 x 8 inches

Those that prefer to wear the goggles constantly during their trips will find this model very helpful. The goggles are incorporated in a helmet and have many features that make them efficient. Among the most notable ones are the lenses, which are resistant to scratches. They are made to keep fog at bay, too.

Aside from them, there is a chin strap, which users can simply adjust and move. If they don’t like to have it on, they can also remove it without damaging the goggles. In order to prevent excessive heat while they are operating, advanced ventilation with multiple ports is included. Another detail that users find useful is the absolute coverage of the head. Of course, it can be removed as you please. But it’s there to provide complete protection to people, especially when they’re moving in rough terrains.

As for possible cons, users mentioned that they experienced difficulties with fitting the gear to their heads. Not to mention that the visor wasn’t shaded.

GTHUNDER Digital Night Vision Goggles

Digital zoom: 4 times
Diameter of objective lens: 25 millimeters
Magnification: 3 times
Colors: users can pick between black and green
Size of the screen: 3 inches
Memory of the SD card: 32 GB
Viewing distance: 986 feet
Weight: 2.49 pounds

Even if there isn’t an external light where you’re standing, these goggles can provide clear and bright views. The infrared illuminator is responsible for this. It not only brings more light to the views but it widens the field of view. This means that the observer can catch more details in the darkness. They can also notice animals and other living creatures with body temperature. The multi-coated lenses and the large zoom only contribute to this.

Due to the simplicity and accessibility of all options, beginners can use it without any issues. They shouldn’t worry about dropping it either. Its design is rugged and made of rubber to increase its durability. It also makes it more comfortable to hold for a longer time. Therefore, users are free to utilize it in harsh surroundings and during changing weather conditions.

Additionally, it’s worth mentioning that these goggles are digital. They have a TFT screen for seeing what you’ve captured easily. Yes, with this device, people are able to take photos and record videos of everything they see. Later, these materials are stored in the SD card, which is included. And from there they can be taken to multiple devices.

However, they can’t operate with rechargeable batteries and they tend to be a bit bulky for some users. In fact, these are among the main downsides associated with this product.

Coolife Night Vision Goggles

Viewing distance with infrared illuminator: 984 feet
Weight: 1.2 pounds
Infrared levels: 7
Magnification: 3 times
Diameter of objective lens: 25 millimeters
Digital zoom: 4 times
Size of the screen: 2.31 inches
Resolution of captured videos and photos: 1280 x 960
Capacity of the SD card: 32 GB
Buttons: 6 adjustable buttons for the functions
Source of power: 6 AA batteries

When it comes to versatility, this model is among the top ones on the list. Thanks to its great performance in absolute darkness, it can be utilized in various situations. From camping, hunting, and fishing up to observation of nature at night, users can take these goggles everywhere. The fact that they are lightweight helps with this.

Depending on the light, the infrared levels can be adjusted to match it. This option goes together with the illuminator with the purpose of expanding the viewing area and providing bright views. Related to this, there is a CMOS sensor for increased clarity of the lenses. Thanks to these, the photos and videos that are captured with these goggles are in high definition. They can be previewed on the screen that’s a part of this product. The good news is that there is an SD card that comes with the product. Therefore, the photos and videos can be stored on it and kept for further utilization.

As for other options, we’d like to point out that this model can be attached to a tripod. This way, the views can be more stable and concise. Yet it isn’t powered by rechargeable batteries. Because of this, users are required to always carry spare batteries with them. So, you should calculate this cost in the price, as well.

BelOMO NVG-14 Gen 2+ Night Vision Goggles with Headgear

Generation: 2+
Magnification: 1 time
Weight: 0.54 kilograms
Field of view: 36 degrees
Supply voltage: 1.2 – 3 volts
Dimensions of IR illuminator: 157 x 68 x 80 millimeters

The first thing that differentiates this model is that it comes with a headgear. This makes it easier to view through it with your free hands. Also, its design is compact and lightweight. Due to this, the strain in the eyes is minimized. And users can keep the goggles on for a long time.

Another important aspect is the ability to provide bright views in low light conditions and when it’s totally dark. With the IR illuminator that’s built-in, the surroundings are filled with more light. The light pronounces many details in places like caves, forests, and similar, as well. Moreover, there is a special brightness system that operates automatically. What does this mean? It can adjust to the light around you, making sure the level of light before your eyes is constant.

Finally, the goggles are sealed to keep sweat and other temperature changes to affect them. However, the price is very high for some users and they report this as trouble.

Guide for Soldiers

Thermal Technology

This technology which is used in goggles for observations in the dark is becoming very popular. And it has quickly taken over the optics world. Moreover, it’s different from the rest of the night vision technologies because it detects the heat from the subject even in utter darkness. Thanks to this technology, even the subjects that are hiding in the dark can become visible to the users. That’s because they all have heat reading. And the technology picks up the heat that radiates off of them. Also, it builds a heat map. Later on, this heat map displays the various levels of heat in an observed subject. Based on the information regarding the heat that the thermal goggles collect, they deliver clear visuals to the user. As such, they’re used in plenty of fields and industries.

Field of View

You’ll commonly find this feature simply as FOV, too. It represents the extent of the surroundings which night vision goggles can include in the viewing range. In other words, it refers to how much of the subject’s immediate surroundings you’re able to see.

Naturally, some may expect that the field of view is narrower in these night vision goggles because you can’t see much in the dark. That isn’t always the case. This varies from one model to the next. There is no fixed level of the field of view for all goggles. So, if this is your priority, then you should look for models that have a wider field of view.

Some correlate this to the model’s price tag. What’s more, it’s considered that more affordable goggles tend to have a narrower field of view, and vice versa.

Size and Weight

Generally, speaking smaller and lighter night vision goggles are preferred. This makes them very compact, as well. The reason is that, for one, you can easily transport them and carry them with you. Also, you can easily pack them together with the rest of the stuff you may be taking with you.

Some users like to mount them on a helmet. So, lighter goggles are more than needed here. In return, heavier ones will strain your neck and give you pain. Additionally, it’s said that smaller goggles improve their accuracy. That is one of the desired features in many outdoor activities.

Taking Pictures and Recording Videos

That’s right, some contemporary goggles can do just that. Taking shots and capturing videos is a super cool addition that can significantly improve your entire user experience. But, we have to say that not all models come with these capabilities.

With that being said, some models simply take the visual materials and store them. The storing is usually done on a memory card in the unit itself. On the other hand, some high-end ones take it up to the next level. That means that they can stream what you’re seeing through the goggles to devices like phones and tablets.

All in all, the pictures and videos are a nice reminder of memories and your experience of what you’ve seen. You can later share them on your social channels, show them to friends and family, and more. Even those who couldn’t make it can get a glimpse of the atmosphere.

Mounting Capabilities

Mountable goggles aren’t a standard in the industry. Still, plenty of users are interested in these models and they can be found. One of the benefits is that they enable hands-free operation. This can be essential in some jobs like hunting. These tasks require users to carry firearms and similar other equipment. So, they don’t want to worry about carrying goggles in their hands, too.

One of the most popular mounting options is mounting the goggles on the helmet. This way, you can easily raise them or lower them over your eyes when the need arises. Another option is mounting them on the side of the helmet.

Even though you may not need a hands-free operation, having this feature in your product can be very useful in the future. So, you may consider looking for it while you’re shopping for the most suitable night vision goggles out there.

Detection Range

It’s one of those features that are very characteristic of night vision goggles. With that being said, the detection range is different from one type of goggles to the next. So, you should watch out for this, too, when you’re browsing for potential gadgets to own.

How much the goggles can detect from what lies ahead significantly determines their functionality. Naturally, if the subject you’re observing is too far away and your goggles can’t detect it in the night, it’s a bummer.

Further, the nature of the job dictates the size of this range. If you’re using your goggles for hunting at long distances, then a higher detection range is desired. The logic is the same if you’re a short-range hunter. Still, people always recommend the former option, because it provides versatility and improves the performance.

Resistance to External Conditions

One of the highest-ranking factors for goggles’ durability is the resistance to harsh weather and external conditions. Moreover, models that have these features usually have a rugged design and special armoring, among other things.

Additionally, waterproofness is exceptionally important, too. As are the goggles being fog proof. For this purpose, they’re typically O-ringed as well as nitrogen-purged. So, no drops of water, dust, debris, or similar can enter the goggles. If these harmful particles enter the inside of the goggles, the entire performance may be damaged. That’s because the images will be darker, fogged, and have spots that obstruct clear observations.

The fact stands that the weather is often unpredictable. That’s especially the case if you’re performing your task in the open field. You never know when it may rain or if it will be wet and damp where you’re going. That’s why these features have your back and make your night vision goggles long-lasting.
A side note is that these features can often increase the price. But, sometimes you shouldn’t make compromises to buy less-quality goggles at a lower price.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What can I use my thermal night vision goggles for?

Answer: The applications for this type of goggles are numerous. That is one of the reasons why they’re so popular among customers. Moreover, they can be used for night hunting, military purposes, MilSim games such as paintball and other military-like games, surveillance at night, and more. Buyers should just have their job in mind and go for the most suitable goggles for it. For instance, the field of view may differ in goggles for playing paintball to ones for long-range surveillance.

Do cheap night vision goggles do the job well in complete darkness?

Answer: Their specialty is predominantly low-light conditions. However, some rare ones can work well in utter darkness. Night vision devices are known for utilizing infrared energy. For that, they need an IR illuminator. That’s why even the most effective ones give optimal results when there is some sort of light source, even though it can be smaller.

Do I need a special permit to buy and use night vision goggles?

Answer: Generally, it’s legal for an individual to buy and then utilize their goggles. That is unless they plan to use the device for some illegal activities. Then, they may be in trouble and face some legal consequences. In most of the US, states, people can use goggles freely. But, some require permits and there are limitations. So, it’s best to check whether the location you’re in allows you to use night vision goggles without a permit. The local officials as well as your online research will definitely yield some useful results.

In Conclusion…

When you’re outside in the dark, you need a trustworthy companion to help you see. These goggles exist for this purpose. With new models arriving all the time, the brands introduce modern and useful features that can enhance the whole observing experience. It has become clear by now that the goggles you choose should be able to make the surroundings to appear brighter. Also, if living creatures are involved, they should be able to detect them and present their whereabouts. Usually, this is done through their thermal capabilities.

Having all of this in mind, we presented the top goggles this year that fit all budgets. In the full reviews, we explained what people like and don’t like about them. And in the buying guide, you could get closely acquainted with the vital features you should keep an eye on. Now we believe that you’re ready to go shopping and pick the right pair for you. We just want to hear from you how it went, what your experiences with this topic are, and which goggles you would recommend to the other users. So, be our guest and leave a comment here.

Matthew Koch

Hi, I'm Matthew, a passionate blogger and traveler. I'm also a hard-core hiker. Hiking with friends and visiting new places is what I live for. Currently, I'm working at Gear Odds as CEO & Columnist. I would like to provide my best outdoor experience possible.