Welcome to my review of the best night vision binoculars for 2020.
As diurnal creatures, humans have a hard time seeing anything at night. However, humans are also problem solvers, and our greatest asset is our brain. We’ve used our brain power to solve our inability to see things clearly in the dark. From electric lights to night vision technology, we’ve invented gadgets and tools to extend our ability to see deep into the darkness.
If you want to see in the dark without disturbing the nightlife, night vision is the least intrusive way to do that. Flashlights and lanterns simply create artificial daylight and alert everyone in the area (friend or foe) to your presence. Whether you need to see in the dark for hunting or for tactical purposes, night vision is the way to go.
While there are plenty of night vision binoculars on the market, night vision binoculars provide magnification on top of night vision. Here are our top picks for the best night vision binoculars of 2020. Uses these to get up close and personal to things that go bump in the night while still maintaining a safe distance.
Best Night Vision Binoculars
If you are new to the sport or the kind of work which involves the use of night vision binoculars, you might find it difficult to choose the right binocular for you. It can be a tough task to make the right choice if you are not fully informed about the specifications to look for before the purchase of a night vision binocular. So, in this article, we have come up with some of the best night vision binoculars which you can get your hands on. Our team has researched on each of the binoculars in detail to deliver an unbiased opinion from the price to the specifications of each of the binoculars featured in the list. So go through it and make an informed decision on which night vision binocular you purchase.
ATN BinoX HD 4-16X Binoculars
ATN is well-known for their night vision products, and their BinoX HD binoculars are incredibly high-tech and surprisingly affordable. These digital night vision binoculars are perfect for both day and nighttime use and offer 4x magnification that zooms to 16x.
The ATN BinoX HD is more than just a set of nighttime binos. It’s an entire night vision system. It even comes with a gyroscope that helps stabilize the image. You can hook the binos directly to a monitor to expand viewing. You can even broadcast your night vision images using built-in Wi-Fi streaming.
You can use these night vision binos to shoot pictures and record HD videos. The BinoX HD also works as a rangefinder for calculating distance and a smart e-compass for navigation assistance. There’s virtually nothing these night vision binos can’t do. Check the latest price of them here on amazon.
Solomark Digital Night Vision Binoculars
The Solomark Digital Night Vision Binoculars offer 7x magnification and allow you to take infrared photos and video during daylight or after dark. They provide a 1300-foot viewing range in full darkness, making these digital NV binos useful for hunting, fishing, camping, caving, paintball, security surveillance, and more.
Other awesome features include built-in tripod jacks, multi-coated glass to decrease glare and optimize light transmission, and 2x digital zoom. Solomark also offers adjustable IR and brightness levels for enhanced viewing in every light condition. Check the latest price of them here on amazon.
These are the #1 ranked binoculars for the price.
Bushnell Equinox Z 4×50 Binoculars
Bushnell is well-known for producing high-quality optics and their Equinox Z night vision binoculars are no exception. You can use these versatile digital night vision binoculars day or night with the Equinox Z’s two built-in color LCD displays.
These night vision binoculars also function as a camera and accept a MicroSD card to record JPEG images for easy uploading. You can also connect the Equinox Z to a computer monitor for easier viewing.
While the Bushnell Equinox Z isn’t the best option for long range viewing, you should be able to see out to about 150 yards, although the 4x zoom will make those images seem like they are within touching distance. These binoculars are one of the most affordable sets on our list and are a perfect option for newcomers to night vision technology. Check the latest price of these binoculars on amazon.
Related: Best Vortex Binoculars
Sightmark Ghost Hunter 2×24 Binoculars
Sightmark specializes in budget optics, especially scopes and binoculars. They have also done a great job in the realm of affordable night vision with their Ghost Hunter night vision binoculars.
These compact Gen 1 night vision binos weigh just over 14 ounces. Ghost Hunter binos only offer 2x magnification, but with the built-in IR illuminator, they allow you to see out to 120 yards on a clear night. You won’t get the best image or viewing distance from Sightmarks Ghost Hunter, but they are perfect if you’re looking for a budget set of night vision binoculars. If you’re interested, you can check the latest price of these binoculars on amazon.
Bestguarder NV-900 Digital Night Vision Binoculars
We especially like the ergonomic, no-slip design of these 4.5-22.5×40 HD Digital Infrared binos from Bestguarder. They also include a strap for extra secure holding.
The NV-900 binos offer widescreen viewing with an infrared LED illuminator for an effective range of approximately 1300 feet in full darkness. The built-in 2-inch viewing screen easily converts to a 4-inch larger viewing screen by the convex lens.
Bestguarder NV-900 night vision binoculars produce a surprisingly clear image for binos in this price bracket. They also offer plenty of advanced features you would only expect from a more expensive set, including an automatic shooting mode for intelligent unattended monitoring. These high-quality binoculars are perfect for nighttime security surveillance or wildlife observation. Check the latest price of these on amazon.
Night Owl Pro Nexgen Night Vision Binocular
Strictly for use in dark conditions, the Night Owl Pro Nexgen binos feature two Gen 1 image intensifier tubes and a built-in columnated infrared illuminator. These features deliver bright clear viewing even in the darkest conditions. In fact, the darker the better.
You get 5x magnification that does not degrade image quality, plus easy focusing and an excellent battery life (between 40 and 80 hours, depending on IR usage). These night vision binos weigh about 2 ½ lbs. Check the latest price of these binoculars on amazon.
Amazon product
This is our top rated bow hunting rangefinder for 2020. This is one of the most technologically advanced rangefinders that you can get.
1. Bushnell 260501 Equinox Series 6L Night Vision – Affordable With Sturdy Construction
This item has earned Editors’ Choice for its outstanding quality and performance.
Bushnell 260501 Equinox is a multipurpose night vision binocular which can be used to help you at any juncture. Do not let darkness end the adventure.
With Bushnell 260501 Equinox you get to be your own boss as you can work with ease at times when the light can hamper your development. The binocular equipped with great quality glass objectives, a long-lasting battery, and amazing capabilities to zoom, you do not need to look at any other night vision binocular to satisfy your needs. Whether it is to survey animals or to keep a lot out on the open field, the binocular can be used during the day or night with ultimate precision to give you the best results.
With an objective lens of 50mm, the binocular does provide a magnification of 4x which is ideal in comparison with other binoculars available in the market. It comes with powerful infrared illumination which helps in seeing everything even when there is low lighting. As a night vision binocular, this is the feature which should be the best. And the Bushnell binocular does not fail at delivering. It is designed to deliver a viewing experience to its users. The optical clarity delivered by the binocular is unmatched for and gives you the best quality visuals you can ever ask for.
The device is built appropriately to be able to handle the brunt of a fall. The sturdy construction is housed in a water-resistant housing which makes it ideal to be used in damp conditions without any trouble. It comes in black color and has a dimension of 4 x 8 x 9 inches. At 1.60 pounds, it weighs very reasonable and is easy to handle. The user will not feel fatigued after carrying it for longer periods of time.
It comes with a video out capability which lets you tape things which you want while a looking through the binocular. This feature especially comes in handy when you want to record something as proof. At such a price range, it is one of the best night vision binocular you can get your hands on. So, makes sure to make the purchase as soon as you can if you have decided on it. Click here to see the best price.
Pros:
- 4x magnification ideal for any binoculars
- 50mm objective lens giving great clarity
- Sturdy construction which holds up well
- Rugged water-resistant casing
Cons:
- Comes only in black color
Related: Best Rangefinder Binoculars 2020
2. Bestguarder Digital Night Vision Binocular – Excellent Range That Never Disappoints
Are you a hunter or explorer looking for a great range of the night vision binocular? Then you should not look further. The Bestguarder night vision binocular is the best match for you.
Manufactured by Shenzhen Siyuan Digital Technology Inc, it is one of the best quality night vision binocular you might come across. As a newcomer to the market, they are definitely proving their worth with products such as Bestguarder Digital Night Vision Binocular and is seen as a mainstay for the coming years due to the product quality.
Manufactured in the city of Shenzhen in China, the product does follow all the rules and regulations which need to be adhered to while developing a night vision binocular. The binocular has 4x magnifications, which is one of the best you can ask for from a night vision binocular. With this magnification and a 50mm objective lens, it is able to deliver a range of up to 980 feet.
This range is considered to be one that is delivered by a good quality binocular. The lens is made of a great quality material which delivers remarkable optical clarity ideal for any night vision binocular. This binocular does come with a wide field view and is also equipped with the video out capability. Inside the package, you will find the device, a cleaning cloth, the user manual, removable portable strap, TV and USB cables, and a pouch for you to keep it safe. It has a water-resistant rugged make which makes it comfortable to use in damp conditions and for usage over longer periods of time.
It allows you to take HD pictures or videos of great quality with sound. the 850NM infrared illuminator is ideal to give clear view during pitch darkness. The infrared illuminator will be off during daytime to give proper color. Date, time, and GPS ID can be stamped into the pictures with the binocular. It has an SD card slot with a maximum capacity of 32GB. You can also connect and transmit data to your computer with this device. The long-lasting lithium-ion battery is perfect to provide great power to your device and make it last longer with low drain. Click here to see the latest price.
Pros:
- Great range of 980 feet
- Sturdy construction
- Date, time, and GPS ID stamp on pictures
- Video out capability
Cons:
- SD card slot has only the capacity to hold up to 32GB
If you are looking for premium level base layer, this is it. I wouldn't recommend anything else.
3. Bushnell LYNX Gen 1 Night Vision Binocular – Anti-Reflection Coating For Clear Images
Bushnell makes an entry to the list again with their LYNX Gen 1 night vision binocular. It is easily understandable that the quality is assured when you are planning to purchase any Bushnell product.
They have years of reputation and great products to back their work and have made a mark in the market as one of the best binocular manufacturers. The device is described as the affordable binocular with all the essential features for night vision. It comes with an infrared illuminator which can be switched on and off to save battery. It delivers a wider viewing range, brighter image, better viewing range, and the ability to view in complete darkness.
The device is made to be comfortable for your hands and your eyes with a lightweight but sturdy design. The anti-slip covering makes it easy for you to grip the device and hold on for longer periods of time. The ability to mount the device on a tripod or with a head strap also reduces the effort of carrying the device. The water-resistant device also holds well in harsh climatic conditions. It comes with an anti-reflection coated lens which makes it easy to drive away all the unwanted reflections and get a clear view of the target. It delivers a good range of up to 750 feet depending on the conditions in which it is used. It is powered by two AAA batteries which gives it great battery backup. With the infrared feature turned off, it gives a backup of around 70 hours. And with all the features fully turned on, the battery of the device lasts for at least 20 hours.
The only issue we could figure with this model is that it cannot be used during the day. This is because the bright light or daylight can damage the intensifier tube of the device which would result in the binocular becoming non-usable. Some of the night vision binoculars have the feature to auto shut off these bright lights from reaching the intensifier tube and stop the damage. But this model does not have the feature. Check the price of Bushnell 260501 Equinox Series 6L Night Vision on amazon.
Pros:
- Brilliant visibility
- Affordable price range
- Water-resistant
- Anti-reflection coating on the glass lens
- 750 feet viewing range
- 20 to 70 hours battery backup
Cons:
- Cannot zoom
- Cannot be used during daytime
- Needs to be refocused each time
Related: Best Hunting Binoculars 2020
4. Night Owl Explorer Pro 5X Night Vision Binoculars – The Perfect Binocular For Day or Night
Night Owl Explorer Pro is right up at the top when you are looking for the best night vision binoculars. With the Generation-1 technology, the binocular does stand on top of the chart even though it does have a heavy price tag.
Though the hefty price tag, it is a product you will never regret buying. The manufacturers have gone the extra mile in the case of Night Owl Explorer Pro to make the price tag worthy. It features a normal design which is seen with most of the other night vision binoculars which feature in the same range. But it does not compromise on the comfort of use and easy to carry around with you. Featuring a 50mm objective lens made of materials which are impact resistant, it has a 5x magnification which proves to be ideal for any binoculars under this range.
It is a bit on the heavier side, but this is due to the quality of the optics used to manufacture it. The weight is unavoidable, but you get better quality images. The power and infrared buttons are located on the top of the binocular. This makes it easy for you to access it. It uses 3-volt lithium battery which is ideal to deliver great battery backup. But the availability of the battery can be a bit of an issue. The glass optics is treated by metal fluorides and oxides to get great quality and crisp viewing. It uses two intensifier tubes which ensure that you are able to get great nighttime performance. The intensifier combined with the infrared illuminator is the perfect combination to make it the best night vision binocular.
The device comes with a central focusing mechanism with adjustable focus which makes it easy for you to use. With a dimension of 7.8 x 5.8 x 2.9 inches, it is compact even though on the heavier side. Depending on the infrared usage, you will get a battery backup of anywhere between 40 to 80 hours. The battery is not included with the package, and you will need to buy it separately. Click here to see the best price.
Pros:
- Low battery indicator
- Durable impact absorbing lens
- Comfortable and easy to hold rubberized finish
- 700 feet range
- Central focusing system
Cons:
- Too expensive
- Heavier than most of the binoculars
- No support to attach a tripod
5. Armasight Dark Strider Gen 1+ Night Vision Binocular – Built-in Generation-1 Intensifier Tubes
Armasight Dark Strider is the name which pops up in our heads when we think of a night vision binocular which is both affordable and has all the quality of a good night vision binocular.
You get the ability to pierce through pitch darkness with this binocular without any trouble.
It comes with a built-in infrared illuminator which gives you an invisible lighting to light up space which does not have any ambient lights. This allows you to see everything in the unlit area without much trouble thanks to this amazing piece of equipment. It has two Generation-1 intensifier tubes which provide the optimal performance in delivering high quality, clear images. It has a 50mm multicoated objective lens with a 5x magnification zoom which delivers a 14 degrees field of view. This is comparatively larger than the other binoculars available in the market.
The binocular does feature diopter adjustment which makes it easier for you to comfortably position your eyes on the eyepiece. The binocular is housed in a glass fiber reinforced durable material which also makes it lightweight and easy to carry around. It has a rubberized covering which makes it easy for you to grip and hold on.
The objective lens is protected by the use of lens caps, and it is also water and fog-resistant. This makes it the ideal piece of equipment to carry with you in harsh climatic conditions. At 3 pounds, it is not the lightest night vision binocular available in the market. But the weight is due to the incorporation of quality materials to make the product. It is a sacrifice we have to make to acquire a good quality product.
It is powered by a CR-123 lithium-ion battery. This gives it longer power duration of around 58 hours if the infrared feature is turned off. In case the IR illuminator is on, the estimated battery duration is about 12 hours. The availability of this battery can be an issue even though it delivers great battery backup. Click here to see the best price.
Pros:
- Affordable with great features
- Comes with two Generation-1 intensifier tubes
- Built-in infrared illuminator for greater viewing
- Reinforced glass fiber for better impact protection
- Rubberized cover to help you hold better
- Water and fog-resistant with lens caps
Cons:
- Distortion on the edges
- Heavier in comparison to the rest
Buying Guide – Night Vision Binoculars
Buying a night vision binocular can be a tough task. With so many great devices available in the market, you might find it truly difficult to choose the one which suits you the best. So, a careful study is necessary before you zoom in on the one which you think would work well for you. To help you with the process, we have come up with a buying guide which would explain to you in detail the things you have to keep in mind before making a purchase. Read ahead to get a good idea of the things to consider before buying a night vision binocular.
Image quality
Decide on the type of image quality you require. The better the image quality of the binocular, the better is the ability to spot and observe objects through it. But with an increase in image quality, the cost will also increase. So, keep in mind that the price of the binocular is directly proportional to its image quality. Make sure to figure out the quality of the image which you require so that you would not waste money on purchasing a binocular which you do not need.
The Environment
The use of the night vision binocular depends on the kind of environment you are using it in. Factors such as distance, the kind of night, the weather at the particular time – all result in different binoculars performing differently. So, study the environment well before you make a decision on the kind of binocular you want to buy. Considering this will help in making the binocular more efficient.
The Gain
Gain is the relative amount of light which you can see while looking through the device. With the increase in magnification, the gain seems to reduce. This would require you to use additional technology to improve the gain. But it is always a better option to go for a binocular with better gain.
Related: Best Night Vision Monoculars
Generation 1 or Generation 2 Night Vision Binocular
Photosensitivity, system resolution, and the light gain constitute the difference between Generation 1 and Generation 2. The photosensitivity is the minimum light which is required to view the object with efficiency. In this aspect, Generation 2 fairs better than Generation 1.
The system resolution defines how sharp and clear the image can be seen through the binocular. Generation 1 has a light amplification of less than a thousand and Generation 2 has less than 6000.
The number of times the light is amplified is signified by the system light gain. Generation 1 has a slight gain of about 300-900 times. On the other hand, Generation 2 can have a slight gain of about 20,000-30,000 times than the actual light.
Conclusion
Whether you need night vision binoculars for tactical applications, hunting, or outdoor adventure, a quality set of binoculars will open up a whole new world of nighttime possibilities. The ability to observe the world clearly after dark has many advantages and can be a thrilling experience.
Any of the optics on our list of the best night vision binoculars will help you see in the dark. Some are more expensive than others, but in the world of night vision, you get what you pay for. We’ve tried to choose night vision binoculars that are relatively affordable. While there are some models that are more affordable than others, don’t expect them to perform miracles. If the ability to see long distances clearly after sunset is an absolute necessity, you should plan on making a fairly hefty financial investment.
