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Night vision binoculars (NVB’s) are a late-night adventurer’s best friend. These binoculars allow you to see things that would otherwise be lost in the darkness. It’s easy to understand why this would be beneficial for security, on a night hunt, or maybe an exploratory camping trip.
With night vision, you can enhance your viewing experience no matter what time of day it is while keeping aware of your surroundings.
Night vision binoculars work by amplifying existing ambient light. The binoculars then multiply this ambient light and project it on the scene in front of us, recreating the environment we see.
The image you see through these binoculars will be some shade of monochrome green, so don’t go into this expecting vibrant colors from your binoculars. However, higher-end models will overdeliver on image quality and brightness in low-light environments.
With the advancements in today’s night vision technology, you can find a pair of binoculars that will support just about any activity you could imagine in the dark, without breaking the bank.
Short on time? Check out our 8 Best Picks for Night Vision Binoculars.
- GTHUNDER
- Creative XP
- ATN BinoX 4K
- Luna Optics
- Armasight Discovery
- AGM Global Vision Foxbat
- ATN PS15
- Armasight CO-LR
What We Will Cover
How are night vision binoculars different from goggles?
In one word: Magnification.
Night vision goggles are great for close-range viewing at night but can be limiting when your target image is further away. When using night vision goggles you cannot see anything outside of the field of view they provide, so if you’re trying to see something moving about in the distance at night, you’re not going to have any more useful range than you would have if it were bright out.
Night vision binoculars give you that same ability to see in the dark but don’t limit you to a 1x magnification as most night vision goggles do. This means you’ll be able to identify a target from hundreds of yards away as opposed to about 30. And while most people will use their night vision binoculars for activities like hunting, camping, security, or stargazing; there are obvious tactical advantages to being able to see far away in the dark as well.
Binoculars can also provide a wider field of view than goggles. This means you’ll be able to see more in the environment around you than with the narrow view of goggles.
How to choose the best night vision binoculars
Generations
Generation 1: Gen 1 night vision binoculars are your most basic of the bunch. Your useful range of view is going to be limited compared to the later generation models – think ~75 yards. They are nowhere near what you can expect in image quality from the other generations. But if you’re just getting into the night vision world, this is going to be your cheapest ticket to entry.
Generation 2: Gen. 2 night vision steps the game up from Gen. 1 in magnification power and image clarity. Your useful range of view is going to be somewhere between 150-200 yards and the quality of the scene you’re viewing will likely be better. These are the most common choice among hunters and other late-night sporters. Gen. 2 night vision leans more towards Gen. 3 technology in terms of reliability and performance.
Generation 3: Gen. 3 night vision binoculars are a completely separate beast from their predecessors. Most commonly used by the military and law enforcement, Gen. 3 night vision offers the best image quality with your most impressive range of view. At 300+ yards, you’ll have a crystal-clear view of anything and everything you want to look for. This type of night vision device is also more expensive, but you’ll get everything you pay for.
Generation 4: Gen. 4 night vision is the most advanced technology on the night vision market. The most serious hobbyists, as well as the military and law enforcement, will be the most qualified candidates to purchase these items. They’re very expensive to buy and mostly overkill for civilian use.
The brightest and clearest picture that night vision binoculars can produce will be produced with Gen. 4 night vision. You will also experience enhanced depth perception and rapid scene orientation with this generation. These binoculars will feel like having superhuman sight in the dark.
Digital: Digital night vision does not use conventional intensifier tubes like the standard generations and instead uses a processor to produce at least as good image quality as most Gen 1 models. Some of the newer digital models can even produce image quality on par with Gen 2 or 3 models.
One of the biggest advantages digital has over standard analog models is going to be price. They tend to be more budget-friendly and most are closer in cost to a Gen 1 model. There are other advantages as well, like being able to use in the daylight, durability, and features like rangefinders and video/photo capabilities make them a good choice for many.
Features to Consider
Night vision binoculars of today have the ability to do some really amazing things. And with added functionality comes the opportunity for multiple uses and applications. It’s important to know what you’re going to be using the binoculars for to get an understanding of which features matter the most to you.
Magnification
This feature should probably be first on your “need-to-have” list. You enhance your viewing experience by magnifying what you see. Magnification “enlarges” or “brings forward” what you’re looking at, allowing you to see considerably more with far better clarity at long distances.
The higher the magnification, the less light is needed for the binoculars to show a clear image. Higher magnification night vision binoculars will provide the greatest viewing experience but will demand more from your wallet than less-impressive models.
Video Recording
Want to convince your friends you saw Bigfoot on a late-night hike? Thanks to advances in night vision recording technology, now you can!
Some models of night vision binoculars have the ability to record the image you’re viewing and store it on the device for later viewing. Most models of today record in 1080p with some models having capabilities of recording in 4K. Many devices allow you to record onto a removable SD card that you can then transfer to a computer to download your recorded content.
Photo Capture
Your binoculars can also function as a camera in the dark. This function works very similarly to the video recording capabilities of other models. The main difference is capturing a still image rather than a video. The quality of your photo will come down to the quality of the image that’s being reflected through the binoculars, so lower-quality models will produce lower-quality images.
Battery Source
Some models of NVB’s utilize rechargeable battery systems inside the unit itself with a battery life indicator so you know when it needs a charge. Other models are much simpler, using AA batteries to power the device which allows for a quick battery change when they run out of juice. There is no “right” or “wrong” choice for a battery source – this comes down to user preference. Would you rather recharge your device or change the batteries?
Infrared Illuminator
An essential feature of night vision binoculars, the infrared illuminator is basically a flashlight that brightens the scene you’re looking at using invisible light from the color spectrum. A good IR illuminator will greatly enhance your visual and allow you to see much more in the darkness.
Infrared is invisible to the human eye but can be detected by other night vision devices. This isn’t much of an issue for civilian use but can be risky in stealth operations. With a very high-quality IR illuminator, you’ll have the ability to see in complete darkness with no need for existing ambient light.
WiFi Connectivity
Some NVB’s have the ability to stream live video or share recorded files to compatible devices through the use of built-in WiFi. This is a great feature if you want to make a short film of a weekend camping adventure with the family or live-stream your night hunt.
Laser Range Finder
This feature uses laser light to gauge the exact distance from you to your target. This can be very useful for hunting or security purposes, especially at night due to your minimized depth perception. Some binoculars (mentioned below) have the ability to communicate and send your target’s position to other smart devices or scopes – this makes hunting at night with a laser range finder a breeze.
How do you intend to use night vision binoculars?
This should be the first question you ask yourself when researching a new pair of NVB’s as your answer will point you in the direction of what to look for.
If you plan to use your NVB’s for a night hunt, consider how much light amplification you need. Without an adequate amount of light being amplified, your image may be blurry or too dark to accurately identify your target (unless you have a powerful IR illuminator).
If you’re looking for a pair of these binoculars to do some late-night bird watching or stargazing, you won’t need as much light amplification. If you’re simply checking out the perimeter of your property, you may not need any amplification at all.
It’s important to know what you’ll be using these binoculars for as there are a number of differences between models, which we’ll cover in more detail below.
Night vision technology also advances at a rapid pace. In five years, you may be looking for an entirely new pair of NVBs that perform much better than what’s available now. So don’t be afraid to start small and upgrade as you get more comfortable using the binoculars and your needs evolve over time.
Budget
Your budget should always be taken into consideration when choosing night vision binoculars. It’s important to determine how much you’re willing to pay for the features you want.
There are a few NVB’s that can display hundreds of yards of useful visual field with an almost perfect image mirrored back that will last 50 hours on a full charge. But if you’re only going to be using them occasionally, and more for recreation, are these features worth the steep investment?
I would argue no. And with the vast selection of NVB’s on the market right now, you can find a pair that will get the job done at any price point. As you go higher in generations of night vision, however, the price will increase.
Gen. 1 night vision is not going to be as feature-packed or quality-assured as Gen. 3. Gen. 2 night vision is a step up in quality from Gen. 1, so you can expect to pay more for these as well. It’s important to know which generation of night vision you’re interested in before settling on a final budget.
For example, let’s say you want a pair of NVB’s for late-night hunting. You’re going to want a pair of binos with high magnification and excellent image quality.
If you’re trying to accomplish this with Gen. 1 night vision, you’re in for a rude awakening. Not that Gen. 1 is bad; it’s just not best suited for your ambition. You would be looking more into Gen. 2 or Gen. 3 night vision for these purposes. And, while more expensive, your hunting experience will be significantly better.
Best Night Vision Binocular Reviews – Updated
1 GTHUNDER (Digital)
The most budget-friendly option on this list, the GTHUNDER night vision binoculars are not to be underestimated.
With a 3x optical and 4x digital zoom, these NVB’s will allow you to extend your viewing range long enough for most applications. The comfort-designed eyepiece allows the user to operate the device while wearing glasses, which is a welcome inclusion as a glasses wearer myself.
This particular model runs on AA batteries, giving it a simple-to-replace battery system allowing for maximal portability. With photo and video capture capabilities, these NVB’s are perfect for someone looking to share their outdoor adventures with friends and family.
The GTHUNDER is perfect for a beginner or newcomer to the world of night vision, as it’s best suited for late-night animal viewing or to enhance your camping experience.
2 Creative XP (Digital)
Taking some of the best features of higher-end night vision binoculars, the Creative XP gives you the ability to turn night into day with the click of a button. Coming in at under $300, these night vision binoculars punch way above their weight class in terms of both value and performance.
They are highly reliable and robust, maintaining damage resistance in the most challenging conditions. This fully waterproof pair of NVB’s has an incredible 7x optical zoom with 31mm fully multi-coated lenses and an impressive viewing range of 1340 feet.
Even more impressive on the list of features for the Creative XP is the night vision itself. This particular pair of NVB’s allows you to see in complete darkness thanks to its powerful IR illuminator, which has three different output settings so you can adjust it to work best with your environment. Most NVB’s require at least some ambient light to work effectively.
Best of all, these binoculars are digital. Remember what that means? No tubes are required for the night vision to work, so you can use these bad boys day or night.
3 ATN BinoX (Digital)
Ready for a pair of night vision hunting binoculars? The ATN BinoX is equipped with a laser rangefinder and Ballistic Information Exchange (BIX) technology to connect with other smart devices. When your rangefinder identifies the distance to your target, your binoculars send that information to an ATN SMART HD scope to let you know exactly where to aim for the kill shot.
And if you don’t have a smart scope, you can download an app on your phone where your binoculars will send the adjustments needed on your current optic to take down your target.
With a 220 foot field of view at 1000 yards, these day/night binoculars allow for optimal viewing at long distances during all hours.
4 Luna Optics Night Vision Binoculars (Digital)
With blu-ray quality recording and an industry-leading 12.2MP still image camera, this pair of night vision binoculars are sure to capture every moment of your adventure with awesome image quality.
With an IR illuminator that provides a useful range of viewing at 436 yards in complete darkness and a focusing beam to bring the nighttime scene into clarity, you can rest assured these NVB’s will get the job done from far away.
The laser rangefinder on this particular pair of binos can identify the distance to your target up to 654 yards with a lightning-fast acquisition. The 50mm objective lens offers 6x magnification while the digital zoom allows for a whopping 36x magnification!
Unique to these Luna Optics binoculars is a daytime color filter that allows for maximum visibility, image brightness, and clarity during daytime use.
5 Armasight Discovery (Gen. 3)
Entering the world of Gen. 3 night vision we come across the Armasight Discovery. This rugged, lightweight pair of NVB’s is best suited for medium to long-range viewing.
With its alpha-grade image intensifier tube and long-range IR illuminator, you’ll be able to view crystal clear images all night long from just about any distance.
Sporting a 5x magnification and multi-coated lens system, this pair of night vision binoculars is one of the best choices any outdoor sportsman or tactical operative could ask for.
And just in case you’re still not impressed, the Armasight Discovery has a state-of-the-art bright light cut-off system, which will prevent your image from being washed out by excess light.
6 AGM Global Vision Foxbat (Gen. 2+)
As a choice solution for security and recreational use, The FoxBat utilizes a single, high-quality image intensifier tube paired with a dualized optical axis and two eyepieces that allow for long viewing sessions.
The FoxBat comes with a variety of functions, including digital controls and a proximity sensor for automatic shutoff in challenging light conditions.
The fully multi-coated lens on these binoculars are coated with fogproof technology, and the unit itself is waterproof, so the elements won’t interfere with an otherwise perfect viewing experience.
5x magnification, all-glass optics, and a detachable IR illuminator make this particular pair of binos a great companion for all situations.
7 ATN PS15 (Gen. 3)
If you’re looking for the best of the best, you’ve found it.
This ATN night vision device with its Gen. 3 night vision technology uses two high-performance image intensifier tubes to provide crystal clear pictures in the darkest situations.
The ATN PS15 NV Goggles feature a dual tube design that improves depth perception and clarity while also providing additional depth. This binocular/goggle combo features a built-in infrared illuminator, allowing the user to read a map and operate in complete darkness.
Opposing the standard binocular setup, the ATN PS15 comes with a 1x magnification – this means you can only see as far as your natural eyesight will allow. This would traditionally make these a pair of goggles. But this particular model has an optional 3x focal lens which transforms them into a high-performance pair of night vision binoculars.
You can also use this model hands-free, as it easily attaches to a helmet.
8 Armasight CO-LR (Gen. 3)
I like to call this Gen. 3 night vision device the long-range hunter’s best friend. While not a true pair of binoculars, this unit is downright impressive in its own right.
The Armasight CO-LR (Clip On – Long Range) is a night vision device that transforms a day scope into night vision capability up to an astounding 1000 yards away.
It’s compatible with any weapon utilizing a standard Picatinny rail. It can be mounted/dismounted in seconds without the need for tools, and it’s recommended for use with day scopes up to 10x magnification.
Because the CO-LR is positioned in front of your day scope, your eye relief is unaltered and shot release and follow-through remain natural.
Because the unit is factory bore-sighted to better than 1MOA accuracy, no zero adjustment is necessary, so mounting, focus, and shooting are as simple at night as they would be during the day.
Equipped with Armasight’s Bright Light Cutoff technology and battery life of 24 hours, the CO-LR is as reliable as it is impressive.
Final Thoughts:
Night vision technology has come a long way in the past few decades and it shows no signs of stopping any time soon. As technology gets better, it will only get cheaper to obtain effective night vision devices.
With that said, there are plenty of high-performance night vision binoculars on the market today at any price point. If you’re looking for the perfect nighttime hunting, camping, or security companion, you can’t go wrong with a good pair of NVB’s.
