Best night vision binoculars 2024: Our top picks to see in the dark
The best night vision binoculars are great tools to have whether you're stargazing or spotting nighttime wildlife.
If you're looking for the best night vision binoculars, we've got you covered with a range of the best models currently on the market. These specialist binoculars are an excellent companion for astronomers and also useful for watching wildlife after dark.
They can even be seen as an alternative to a headlamp or a flashlight: If you're often outdoors at nighttime, then, a set of the best night vision binoculars could be a very wise investment indeed.
When you hear 'night vision', it undoubtedly pulls up images of spies, secret agents and special forces. But night vision binoculars aren't just for the FBI. They can provide a better view of the night sky when stargazing, for example. And if you're wildlife watching, you can get fantastic views without disturbing nature with dazzling lights.
But how do night vision binoculars work? They use an image sensor that collects light and then displays it on an electronic viewfinder. Some of the more expensive models even make use of reflected infrared light which can be turned into visible light that we can see.
Night vision binoculars aren't cheap, but in our list of the best, which you'll find below, we've included a range of price points to suit different budgets. We've also included different models for different skill levels, and you'll also find some monocular options, too.
If what you're after is just a good pair of binoculars, and you're not too bothered with the night vision part, we recommend you look at our guides to the best binoculars or best telescopes. And if you need a hands-free way to see in the dark, our guide to the best headlamps should enlighten you (pardon the pun).
The Quick List
Best overall
Best overall
These night vision goggles boast a viewing range of 1640ft / 500m so you can keep your distance and not disturb wildlife. Their minimum focusing distance is just 6.5 feet too, so ideal for backyard nature watching as well.
Best for close-up use
Best for close-up use
You'll struggle to find better value night vision goggles than these. The viewing distance is just 75 yards (70m) so these are really for close-up use — home surveillance, backyard nature spotting and darkroom work.
Best functionality
Best functionality
There's heaps of useful functionality in this model — twin AMOLED displays, a laser rangefinder and high-resolution imaging. There is a 36x digital zoom and a record function. Watch over Wi-Fi or save to a memory card.
Best premium monocular
Best for long-range
This monocular has an infrared range of a ginormous 3937 ft/ 1200m. The picture-in-picture capability and quick refresh rate make it easy to keep your subject in the center of the frame. This model also acts as a thermal imaging camera, displaying temperature changes as a rainbow gradient. You can record 15GB of video on the device itself too.
Best budget
Best budget
This highly reviewed pair of night vision binoculars boasts impressive specs given their very reasonable price point. They are often on sale too, and you should be able to pick them up for around $130. They feature HD image and video recording, that saves to the provided 32GB SD card.
Best for slo-mo video
Best for slow-mo video
These weather-resistant binos are excellent at shooting high-speed video in the dark. They can share real-time rangefinder information with other people via an app and share videos, storing and playing back footage. The battery life is incredible too.
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Best for simplicity
Best for simplicity
These binos are bulky but good quality, with the ability to record photos and videos either during the day or at night, and they have a long battery life for those long wildlife observing sessions.
Best for resolution
Best for resolution
These tiny, lightweight binoculars certainly pack a punch with their 36MP images and 4K video capture, alongside anti-shake technology to ensure blur-free footage.
Best affordable monocular
Best affordable monocular
An affordable alternative to the Zeiss model, this monocular can record HD photos and video with easy sharing capabilities, although the battery life leaves a lot to be desired.
Best for long range
Best for long range
On paper, they're perfect. Long range, generous battery life and detailed 16MP images and 4K video. But the mixes reviews may put users off.
Best Night Vision Binoculars we recommend in 2024
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The best night vision binoculars overall
Creative XP Night vision Goggles Elite
Our expert review:
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want to see far into the distance: The Creative XP Night Vision Goggles Elite has a huge viewing range of 1640 ft.
✅ You want something that's tripod compatible: Give your arms a break during longer sessions by mounting them on a tripod.
✅ You want to be able to record video: These binoculars can record video, and a 128GB memory card is also supplied.
❌ You're just curious about your backyard wildlife: There are plenty of other models that would be perfectly adequate for backyard wildlife spotting that cost a fraction of the price.
🔎 Creative XP Night Vision Goggles Elite: Though fairly expensive, we think these are the best night vision goggles on the market at the moment with their long viewing range, tripod compatibility and video recording capability. ★★★★½
Coming in at the top of our best night vision binoculars guide are the Creative XP Night Vision Elite Goggles. These binoculars were launched in 2021 and are a really versatile gadget, perfect for anything from observing wildlife in your backyard to indoor sports.
The Night Vision Elite Goggles can focus on objects as close as 6.5 feet and have a broad viewing range extending up to 1,640 feet (500m). This allows you to observe wildlife from a distance without causing any disturbance. Additionally, you can attach the goggles to a tripod for longer observation sessions.
The manufacturers have taken on board feedback from the previous model of Creative NP night vision binoculars to make the Creative XP as good as possible. One fundamental change is the introduction of a rechargeable battery, which means you don't need to have a spare bundle of AA batteries ready. And, of course, being able to charge up your night vision binos is better for the planet, too, whether you're using the mains or a power bank.
The Creative XP Night Vision Elite Goggles have an IPX4 water resistance rating. That means they can't be fully submerged but can withstand rain, sleet and snow, making them ideal in almost all weather conditions and outdoor pursuits. They're available in green or black, and the body is sturdy thanks to a multi-coated shell armor. They also come with a 128GB memory card and a protective case to transport it without scratching or knocking them.
- See our top picks for the Best rangefinder binoculars
Attributes | Notes |
---|---|
Design | Water resistant. |
Performance | Suitable for various observations. |
Functionality | Narrow FOV. |
Best for close-up use
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want something affordable: These are undoubtedly a budget pair of night vision binoculars. They offer basic night vision functionality for moving about in the dark, backyard/small park wildlife spotting, but nothing beyond that.
✅ You want something lightweight: The Nightfox Swift are very comfortable to wear on your head for extended periods of time, allowing you to explore the dark hands-free.
❌ You're likely to use them in inclement weather: Though they would likely be fine in drizzle or fog, as there isn't an official waterproof rating you might want to err on the side of caution.
❌ You want USB-C charging: Though only a small niggle, the now-dated micro-USB charging port usually means keeping an extra cable around and remembering to take it with you if you're traveling away from home.
🔎 Nightfox Swift: A good budget pair of night vision goggles. They have limited uses but at a relatively low price point, we can't complain too much. ★★★½
A great budget option, the Nightfox Swift night vision goggles don't have all the bells and whistles of more expensive tech, but they're very good at what they set out to do.
Some premium features are missing here, but for a sub-$200 price tag, it's what you'd expect. There's no photo or video recording, for example. It also lacks waterproofing protection and high magnification. But if you're looking for something that works effectively at close range, we won't hesitate to recommend the Nightfox Swift.
In our Nightfox Swift review, we noted that these night vision binoculars were so light it's almost disconcerting. But once you're used to it, you'll find they're very comfortable to use and easily fit into one hand. They can even be mounted to your head, and their weight makes them comfy to use that way for long periods, too.
The 3000mAh rechargeable battery provides approximately three hours of usage. The binoculars charge with micro-USB, although we would prefer USB-C charging. Additionally, the labels on the five control buttons are challenging to see in the dark, so we recommend familiarizing yourself with the controls before using them at night.
We liked the range of settings offered here. You can adjust the backlight for a brighter or dimmer image and control the intensity of the infrared beam for a lighter or darker image. Just be aware that higher settings might make the infrared beams visible to others.
The main drawback we noticed is that the eye guard restricts your peripheral vision, making navigating unfamiliar surroundings challenging. However, you could solve this issue by adding an inexpensive fisheye lens to increase your field of view. If recording isn't essential for you, this pair provides many features for its price.
- Read our full Nightfox Swift night vision binoculars review
Attributes | Notes |
---|---|
Design | Lightweight design. |
Performance | Peripheral vision dramatically hindered. |
Functionality | No waterproof rating. |
Best functionality
Luna Optics LN-G3-B50
Our expert review:
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You'd like a digital binocular for daytime use: Thanks to the special daytime mode, the color filter and the AMOLED screen, you can use these night vision binos as a digital binocular/camera in the daytime as well as at night.
✅ You want to record video: Not all binoculars offer this functionality, but this pair captures photos at 16.1 megapixels and video in 1080p.
❌ You need something for inclement weather: There is no official waterproof rating, so it's probably best to avoid these if you spend a lot of time in the rain.
❌ You're on a tight budget: This pair is pretty expensive because of the tech that is packed in.
🔎 Luna Optics LN-G3-B50: A great choice if you'd like a high-quality pair of binoculars that you can use to record with, and if you'd also make use of digital binoculars in the daytime. ★★★★
The Luna Optics LN-G3-B50 might be unique compared to other night vision binoculars on this list, but don't let that put you off. This is a seriously impressive piece of kit, thanks to its AMOLED displays and laser rangefinder.
They're also great for taking still images and video — a very neat feature that you won't always find in a set of night vision binoculars. The Luna Optics night vision binoculars can take 16.1MP stills at QHD video at 30FPS/1080p at 60fps.
These binoculars have a display that can switch between black and white, bright green, or amber, making them useful for both nighttime and daytime use. They also have a built-in color filter that adjusts the color balance, providing a more realistic daytime view. This means they can work as digital binoculars or a daytime camera.
The infrared (IR) illuminator is designed for viewing objects within a range of up to 600m, while the laser rangefinder can measure distances up to 700m. This is handy for wildlife observing without the risk of disturbing them by getting too close and scaring them away.
Featuring a digital zoom of up to 36x (limited to 6x when recording), these binoculars offer versatile viewing options. You can conveniently watch over Wi-Fi, connect to storage via USB or save content to a memory card. The package includes a strap, case, and all the necessary cables.
- Looking for a bargain? Check out our Binocular deals hub
Attributes | Notes |
---|---|
Design | Not waterproof. |
Performance | High-resolution imaging. |
Functionality | Records at the lowest magnification only. |
Best premium monocular
Zeiss DTI 3/35
Our expert review:
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want to see far into the distance: The Zeiss DTI 3/35 has one of the longest viewing ranges on this list and a huge 3937 ft / 1200m IR range.
❌ You're on a budget: Not only is the viewing distance one of the longest, but, at over $2500, the Zeiss DTI 3/35 is also one of the most expensive models in this guide.
🔎 Zeiss DTI 3/35: The longest viewing range but also one of the highest price tags, this is for someone who will use it on a daily or very regular basis. ★★★★
Zeiss is a brand synonymous with quality, and so when it comes to the Zeiss DTI 3/35, you know you're going to be getting a good product. This technically isn't a night vision monocular: It's sold as a thermal imaging camera, but when it's in use, there's little distinction to be made.
Of course, being a monocular, this is a singular eyepiece rather than a pair. But it delivers such high quality optics — and a range of useful features — that it's still worthy of a place on this list.
Featuring a picture-in-picture function and a speedy 50Hz refresh rate, this device ensures that fast-moving objects stay centered. With a remarkable range of 1350 yards (1234 meters) and 2.5x optical magnification, it also offers digital zooming up to 4x in 0.5x increments.
When using this device for night vision, you have four color options. You can switch between the regular white view, an inverted dark image, overlay red to highlight heat signatures or you can display temperature changes with a rainbow gradient.
Using brackets around heat sources helps you easily spot the warmest object in the frame, which is handy for spotting wildlife. Another model, the Zeiss DTI3/25, has lower magnification but a wider field of view, making it ideal for heavily wooded areas where subjects may be hidden among trees.
These night vision binoculars can also record up to 15GB of video within the device itself, and it can also use the ZEISS App to live stream or share data on your phone.
- Related: Best compact binoculars
Attributes | Notes |
---|---|
Design | No memory card slot . |
Performance | High quality optics. |
Functionality | Detection up to 1200m. |
Best budget
Hexeum Night Vision Binoculars
Our expert review:
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want something waterproof: The Hexeum Night Vision Goggles are IP66 rated which means they are protected against high-pressure (12.5mm) water jets.
❌ They aren't on offer: The price of this model fluctuates dramatically throughout the year, with the biggest discounts being seen around Amazon Prime Day and Black Friday. Don't pay more than $130 for them.
🔎 Hexeum Night Vision Binoculars: If you can get them at a good price they are worth the purchase, but bear in mind they require six AA batteries which will make them heavier and be an ongoing expense. ★★★★
Not all night vision binoculars need to break the bank, and so if you're keen to pick up this technology without spending a fortune, the Hexeum Night Vision Binoculars are well worth considering.
Sure, you probably haven't heard of the brand. But despite not having the caliber of a well-known manufacturer on its side, we've been pretty impressed with the Hexeum Night Vision Binoculars. They've received generally very high ratings, and their specifications go above and beyond what you'd expect from this price range.
These night vision binoculars can capture HD images and videos, which is something we'd expect only from a more expensive set. You'll also get a 32GB SD card included, meaning you're ready to capture images and videos right from the get-go.
In terms of image quality, they're pretty impressive too, thanks in part to their fully multi-coated lenses which offer excellent light intake and glare reduction. Featuring a CMOS sensor, these binoculars come with a 4x digital zoom that magnifies images up to 3 times their original size. With a 10-degree viewing angle and a 24mm aperture, they are ideal for scanning large areas without requiring much movement.
Additionally, they offer a remarkable continuous runtime of 8 hours with adjustable IR (or 17 hours without IR), and they will work both during the day and at night. The IR is adjustable to seven different intensities to view objects at a range of distances.
The biggest downside is that they need 6 x AA batteries, and they don't take rechargeable ones, so you'll have to stock up and be prepared to keep repurchasing them.
- Don't ruin your night vision — take a look at the Best headlamps for stargazing
Attributes | Notes |
---|---|
Design | IP66 waterproof rating. |
Performance | Remarkable continuous runtime. |
Functionality | Requires 6 x AA batteries - not compatible with rechargables. |
Best for slow-motion video
ATN Binox 4K
Our expert review:
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want to record Ultra HD video, day or night: You can capture excellent 4K video with no loss of resolution up to 10x magnification.
✅ You'd like a built-in laser rangefinder: Share real-time rangefinder information with other mobile phones to notify others of the location of your subject.
❌ You won't utilize all the functionality: If you don't need all of the technical functionality, pick a cheaper pair like the Nightfox Swift.
🔎 ATN Binox 4K: 120FPS recording is the main attraction here, as is the real-time, shareable rangefinder information. ★★★½
The ATN Binox 4K night vision binoculars aren't for everyone thanks to their high price point. But if you have the budget, you won't be disappointed with this piece of equipment — especially if you're looking for something with wide-ranging functionality.
For capturing fast-motion videos in low light or tough weather, the ATN Binox 4K should be considered a must-have. These binoculars can share real-time rangefinder data with others through mobile devices and send laser tags. This feature is particularly useful for coordinating team positioning when observing or photographing wildlife outdoors.
You can share videos too, recording at 1080p and live streaming at 720p with an IR illuminator boasting a range of 1km. You can even stream video simultaneously as you record it over Wi-Fi, to an Apple or Android device running the ATN Obsidian 4 app. From here, you can save, playback and share your content. You can also create slow-motion effects when you play it back, as they can record up to 120FPS.
One thing we like about the ATN Binox 4K is its extremely low power consumption, with an internal battery that can last up to 15 hours and a USB-C charging port. A micro SD card is needed for storage, however, you will need to supply your own as it doesn't come with one included.
- Check out our best tripods buying guide
Attributes | Notes |
---|---|
Design | Quite heavy. |
Performance | Long battery life. |
Functionality | Extremely low power consumption. |
Best for simplicity
Sigweis Night Vision Binoculars
Our expert review:
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want to record footage: These binos allow you to record footage onto a micro SD card.
✅ You want long battery life: These binos afford 8 hours with the IR on full power and 16 hours for regular daytime use.
❌ You want something lightweight: At 2.86 lbs / 1.3kg, these binos are heavy to use and carry for extended periods.
🔎 Sigweis Night Vision Binoculars: These neat little night vision binos are not so little in size, but they're easy to use day and night and have a simple setup ideal for beginners. ★★★★
The Sigweis night vision binoculars have a solid build and are a bit bulky, but we think they come at a reasonable price. They offer the valuable feature of recording Full HD video in both night vision and daytime color modes for up to 2 hours and 38 minutes. Additionally, they can store up to 9,999 3MP images, ensuring you'll always have enough space to capture your most exciting discoveries — although the 3MP images may be a little less detailed than some users would like.
This is a great set of night vision binoculars for newcomers since they're very easy to use and get to grips with. You'll find six buttons on top of the unit, and each one of them is self-explanatory. We also like that you can view the photos and videos you've captured right in the viewfinder, so you don't need to download them to your PC first — a nice touch that can streamline work processes later on.
The Sigweis night vision binoculars are a little on the heavy side, however: they weigh 2.86lbs/1.3kg, so you'll quickly notice if you're lugging them around and holding them up to your face for long periods of time. Thankfully, they can be mounted to a tripod to take the weight off, but that of course reduces their portability. On the plus side, they are IP56 waterproof rated, so they can be used in just about any weather condition.
It comes equipped with all the accessories you'd need to go along with it, including a custom-fit military-grade hard case, carbon-tipped lens cleaning brush, a 32GB high-speed Micro SD Card (Inserted in Camera) and adapter, shoulder strap and soft carry bag, a soft lens cleaner cloth, USB cable and a user manual. The only thing it doesn't include is batteries — you'll need 6 x AA batteries, and sadly it's not compatible with rechargeable ones.
- Read our best power banks guide
Attributes | Notes |
---|---|
Design | Heavy but tripod mountable. |
Performance | Long battery life. |
Functionality | Ability to take photos and videos day and night. |
Best for resolution
FVTGA Night Vision Binoculars
Our expert review:
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You don't want to keep buying batteries: These binoculars are rechargeable, so you won't have to keep stocking up on batteries.
✅ You want something super lightweight: These binos weigh just 0.66 lbs / 300g.
✅ You shoot moving objects: The anti-shake technology ensures your footage of moving objects isn't blurry.
❌ You want a protective case: There isn't one included so you'll have to buy one separately.
🔎 FVTGA Night Vision Binoculars: These tiny night vision binoculars pack a punch with their 36MP photos and 4K videos, and their anti-shake technology ensures your footage is blur-free. But they're let down by the lack of information. ★★★★
Despite being super lightweight and not breaking the bank, the FVTGA night vision binoculars have absolutely impressed us with their stand-out features. They can record video up to 4K and take 36MP stills, they come equipped with eco-friendly battery options and have seven adjustable IR filters.
If that's not enough, they also have a 5x digital zoom and a built-in anti-shake technology that's comparable to in-built image stabilization in digital cameras. It means captured images and footage should be pin-sharp — a very useful feature if you're capturing moving animals.
The FVTGA night vision binoculars can be used in all kinds of situations since they work well in both dim light and complete darkness. So whether you're looking to the stars, using them for surveillance or tracking nocturnal wildlife, you'll find them more than capable of the task at hand.
The battery life is good at an estimated 8-12 hours, and they are rechargeable so you can keep them topped up with one of the best power banks if you run out of charge while out in the field.
They're incredibly lightweight at just 0.66 lbs / 300g, making them a dream to slip into your coat pocket if you're traveling with them. They can also be mounted on a tripod if you're going to be observing wildlife for a long time. They come in either black or green and have a 32GB memory card, cable, neck strap and user manual included.
We'd like to see a little more information from the brand about these night vision binoculars, such as their range or sensor — they're a fantastic little pair and we think the lack of information, plus the lack of protective case lets them down a bit. Still, the reviews are overall extremely positive, and for under $200, we think they're fantastic value for money and definitely worth buying.
- Check out the best binoculars in 2024
Attributes | Notes |
---|---|
Design | Super lightweight. |
Performance | Fantastic image resolution. |
Functionality | They feature anti-shake technology. |
Best affordable monocular
Bushnell Equinox Z2
Our expert review:
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You don't have a massive budget: While it's certainly not cheap, there are much more expensive models on the market.
✅ You want options: There are three different variants to choose from — 3 x 30, 4.5 x 40 and 6 x 50.
❌ You want a decent battery life: The battery life is short and it runs on 4 x AA batteries.
🔎 Bushnell Equinox Z2: For users without a huge budget, this monocular is a decent option. You won't get the same specs as the more premium options, but it does the job nicely. ★★★½
We've got another monocular here, and one that comes in at a much lower price tag than the Zeiss model we featured further up the page. But, as you'd probably expect, a lower price tag means you'll be losing out on many of the features.
That's not to say the Bushnell Equinox Z2 should be overlooked, though. This is still a monocular coming from a reputable brand and for many people, the features it offers will be more than enough. It can capture images HD video up to 1080p, and captures can be easily uploaded to a smartphone or PC.
Bushnell says you'll experience edge-to-edge resolution when using this monocular, along with, increased light transmission and reduced glare, offering a crisp, clear and illuminated image every time.
It can be used during the day or in moderately lit areas at night with the objective lens cover on (it has a pinhole to restrict light entry). The controls are easy to understand, but we'd recommend reading the online manual to fully grasp all the features.
There are three different models available — 3 x 30mm, 4.5 x 40mm and 6 x 50mm. They also come with a generous lifetime warranty and a carry case for safe storage and to protect it during transport, although we'd have liked there to be a memory card included, especially for the price. Still, we think it's a decent balance between affordability and premium features.
- Check out the best monocular models on the market
Attributes | Notes |
---|---|
Design | Durable, waterproof and shockproof. |
Performance | Very short battery life. |
Functionality | Comes in three different variants. |
Best for long range
WOSPORTS 4K Night Vision Binoculars
Our expert review:
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want detailed images: These binoculars can capture 16MP images and 4K video footage.
✅ You want long battery life: 10-15 hours of battery life will see you through those long observation sessions.
❌ You don't want to gamble: There are mixed customer reviews on these binoculars, making it hard to tell whether they'll live up to their claims.
🔎 WOSPORTS 4K Night Vision Binoculars: On paper, they're a dream. Long 1300ft+ viewing range, generous battery life and detailed footage — but the mixed reviews may put buyers off. ★★★★
The WOSPORTS 4K night vision binoculars suit various activities like bird watching, hunting, and camping. With their powerful magnification and advanced features, these goggles are essential for outdoor lovers.
They offer impressive battery life, equipped with a 3.7-volt 5000mAh rechargeable battery — meaning you don't have to keep stocking up on batteries. On a single charge, you can capture black and white photos and videos in total darkness for more than 10 hours, and over 15 hours of stunning color images and videos during the day.
They excel at capturing stunning 4K UHD video (with sound) and images with a respectable 16MP resolution, and there's a different mode for capturing, recording and playback. The 3-inch screen means you can view your photos and video footage with clarity and detail. They have three different night modes to choose from (red, white or green) and they feel solid and well-made.
If you're looking for night vision binoculars with a long range, this WOSPORTS model is a good choice: They allow you to view targets up to 1,315 feet (400m) away. You have a 1-10x optical zoom to make use of, and an 8x digital zoom, too. However, some reports have said the 400m viewing range is a slightly exaggerated claim. Regardless, they allow you to see at a great distance, and they won't break the bank.
The WOSPORTS 4K night vision binoculars are also waterproof, making them great for use in all weather conditions. They come with a storage box, neck strap, a 32GB SD card and cleaning cloth inside the box, too.
- Read our best telescopes buying guide
Attributes | Notes |
---|---|
Design | Solid and well made. |
Performance | Good 10-15 hours battery life. |
Functionality | Captures 16MP images and 4K video footage. |
Best night vision binoculars: Frequently Asked Questions
Are night vision binoculars reliable?
As with any other product, not all night vision binoculars available to buy online are worth your hard-earned money. Unfortunately, some models can be of poor quality and leak light into the human visual range, ruining the point of getting natural night vision binoculars in the first place.
Luckily, our buying guide only contains recommendations from reputable brands, including models that are tried and tested by our expert reviewers.
What magnification night vision binoculars should I buy?
Magnification is an important factor to consider when choosing a pair of night vision binoculars. For example, if you only need them for home security, you won't need as much magnification as someone wanting to observe animals in the wild.
Choosing binoculars with a wider field of view will allow you to see more of your surroundings at once, which can come in handy if you're searching large expanses of land or observing the night sky.
Can night vision binoculars record video?
The answer is yes, but not all models have that capability. Our buying guide outlines which night vision binoculars have the option to record video, and which are solely meant to be observation devices. If you're after binoculars that will allow you to record footage and rewatch it after the event, you'll want to make sure they've got video capabilities.
Can all night vision binoculars see in the dark?
If binoculars are branded as 'night vision' then they should grant you the capacity to see in the dark. However, some products are branded as night vision binoculars, but are in fact not binoculars are at all. A night vision monocular, for example, would have two lenses at the front, one for a camera and one for an infrared illuminator, with a smaller display for a single eye. Other products are referred to as 'night vision goggles', which tend to be hands-free and let you roam in the dark without having to hold them up in your hands.
What are the best budget night vision binoculars?
Night vision equipment entails some quality materials and tech if you're after a powerful piece of kit. Unfortunately, that means it doesn't necessarily come cheap. While there are very budget-friendly products available, we wouldn't always recommend opting for them if you want a product that will last. Likewise, be wary if you're thinking of buying a discontinued item (and there are many of these right now) as you take on the risk of not being able to repair it and replace parts if it starts to malfunction.
What is the best budget night vision binocular?
What is the best value night vision binocular I can buy but still get a quality pair?
We recommend the Nightfox 100V night vision binoculars as our best budget pick. Our reviewer has tested them and concluded that they are the best value night vision binoculars in this guide.
Are night vision binoculars legal?
The implication of using night vision binoculars can be quite serious, as they are often used in covert operations, for example. As such, not all night vision gear is legal in all countries. Laws vary; in the USA, they can even vary from state to state. If you're not sure, a local retailer or club is your best bet to check. Make sure you seek advice before purchasing to avoid running into trouble.
How we test the best night vision binoculars
At Space.com, we understand how important it is to have reliable and honest recommendations when purchasing night vision binoculars. To ensure that we provide accurate and up-to-date information, we conduct thorough and rigorous reviews on each instrument.
Our team of expert staff and knowledgeable freelance contributors test each pair of binoculars based on various aspects such as construction, design, optical performance, and field performance. This ensures that our reviews are fair and unbiased, and are based on personal, hands-on experience with each binocular.
We also evaluate how easy the binoculars are to operate, whether they come with appropriate accessories or carry bags, and whether they are suitable for spectacles wearers. If necessary, we also make suggestions for additional accessories that can enhance your viewing experience.
At Space.com, we are committed to providing you with complete editorial independence and reliable buying advice on night vision binoculars. Our reviews and buying guides are transparent and trustworthy, helping you make an informed decision when purchasing a specific model.
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Russ Swan is a UK-based freelance science writer and author with a love of all things related to space and aviation. He built his own 100mm refractor telescope from some bits found in a military surplus store, and once had lunch with Neil Armstrong. His popular science book The Physics Behind… explains not just how the universe works, but why. He tweets (occasionally)!
- Jase Parnell-BrookesChannel Editor
- Kimberley LaneContributing writer