- James Gangler
- April 8, 2021
- Reviewed by Alfred Mendoza
- December 15, 2022
Thermal rifle scopes with reasonable price tags are available, but with so many specs and options, it’s hard to know if you are actually getting a quality thermal scope that meets your needs. We just completed our second round of research and testing and have updated our original picks so you can be confident spending your hard-earned money on the best cheap thermal scope for you.
To help you better decide, we’ve given you our list split by short and long-range. Read on to see which scopes make the cut.
- Recoil activated video
- Simultaneously record and stream
- Long battery life
- Integrated range finder, ballistics calc, and reticle
- Many features at a lower price point
- 3 inch eye relief
- Lightweight
- 10 hour battery life
- Solid essentials-only setup
- Recoil resistant
- Impressive clarity
- Versatile in many conditions
- Durable
- Widest Operating Temp Range
- Two-side rail for additional equipment
- Various profiles for different rifles/cartridges
- Most affordable long range lens
- Lightweight
- 3" eye relief
- 10 hour battery life
- Solid essentials-only setup
- Recoil resistant
- Recoil activated video
- Simultaneously record and stream
- Long battery life
- Integrated range finder, ballistics calc, and reticle
Table of Contents
- 1 Top 10 Affordable Thermal Rifle Scopes
- 1.1 SHORT RANGE THERMAL RIFLE SCOPES
- 1.2 1. ATN ThOR 4 384 1.25-5x Thermal Smart HD Rifle Scope
- 1.3 2. ATN ThOR LT 2-4x19mm and 3-6x30mm Thermal Scope
- 1.4 3. AGM Secutor TS25-384 Thermal Imaging Rifle Scope
- 1.5 4. AGM Rattler TS25-384 Thermal Imaging Rifle Scope
- 1.6 5. Burris BTS 35 Thermal Rifle Scope
- 1.7 LONG RANGE THERMAL RIFLE SCOPES
- 1.8 6. ATN ThOR LT 4-8x35mm and 5-10x50mm Thermal Scope
- 1.9 7. ATN ThOR 4 4.5-18x50mm Smart HD Thermal Rifle Scope
- 1.10 8. AGM Rattler TS35-384 Thermal Imaging Rifle Scope
- 1.11 9. Burris BTS 50 3.3-13.2x50mm Thermal Rifle Scope
- 1.12 10. AGM Adder TS50-384 Thermal Imaging Rifle Scope
- 2 Things to Consider
- 3 Advantages of Owning Affordable Thermal Scopes
- 4 And Our #1 Budget Thermal Rifle Scope is...
Top 10 Affordable Thermal Rifle Scopes
SHORT RANGE THERMAL RIFLE SCOPES
1. ATN ThOR 4 384 1.25-5x Thermal Smart HD Rifle Scope
Spec Sheet
- Thermal Sensor: 60 Hz
- Resolution (pixels): 384×288
- Magnification: 1.25-5x
- Digital Zoom: Standard and Extended 10x optical zoom
- Color Modes: Black Hot, Color Mode, White Hot
- Reticle: Smart Mil Dot (4.0-10); 7 Patterns, 7 Color Options
- Identification | Recognition | Detection Range: 205m | 335m |750m
- Display Resolution: 1280×720 HD
- Eye Relief: 90 mm
- Field of View (FOV) (degrees): 16×12.5
- Operating Temp Range: -20°F to +120°F
- Features: Smart Range Finder, Ballistic Calculator, One Shot Zero, Pitch Scale based on internal 3D Gyroscope, 3D Accelerometer, e-Barometer, Video Record (60fps), Photo Preview, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, 720p Streaming, Recoil Activated Video, Recoil resistant components, Expandable MicroSD – up to 64GB, NUC, DPC, Water resistant
- Mount: 30 mm standard rings and one L shape ring (included)
- Power: USB (type C) port for charging (charging cable included)
- Battery Life: 16 hours
- Weight: 1.93 lb.
- Dimensions (inches): 13.1 x 3 x 3
The ATN ThOR 4 384 1.25-5x Thermal Smart HD Rifle Scope is packed full of features typically found on thermal scopes costing much more. The 384 resolution provides good image clarity. Three color palettes (Black Hot, White Hot, and Color) make this thermal scope useful day or night in many poor weather or environmental conditions.
It is fairly easy to use with a spin-to-zoom wheel and tactile buttons so you can operate it without taking your eyes off the target. Mounting on most rails is simple with the included 30mm rings giving you 90mm eye relief. An L-shape ring is also included if you need extra eye relief for certain setups.
The most useful features for hunting are the ballistic calculator, rangefinder, and programmable mil dot reticle which all work together to help you get the shot.
This Wi-Fi enabled scope allows you to simultaneously record high resolution video and live stream using your phone or tablet. When a shot is fired and your scope experiences recoil, Recoil Activated Video (RAV) automatically records video prior to the shot being taken and some time after. This feature isn’t perfect as some air guns may not provide enough recoil for RAV to be activated.
Bluetooth allows other ATN smart accessories to communicate with your scope, furthering its usefulness. This pick has the longest battery life of all of the options we tested. On the other hand, it’s also the largest, so expect a scope loaded with all of these features to add a bit of heft.
PROS
- Recoil activated video
- Simultaneously record and stream
- Long battery life
- Integrated range finder, ballistics calc, and reticle
- Many features at a lower price point
CONS
- Hefty
2. ATN ThOR LT 2-4x19mm and 3-6x30mm Thermal Scope
Spec Sheet
- Thermal Sensor: 12μm, 60 Hz
- Resolution (pixels): 320×240
- Magnification: 2-4x,3-6x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 19mm, 30mm
- Digital Zoom: Step Zoom
- Color Mode(s): White Hot, Black Hot
- Reticle: 4 Patterns
- Identification | Recognition | Detection Range: 200m, 290m | 305m, 455m | 715m, 910m
- Display Resolution: 1280×720 HD Display
- Eye Relief: 90 mm
- Field of View (FOV) (degrees): 11.6×8.7, 8.8×6.6
- Operating Temp Range: -20°F to +120°F
- Features: NUC (Automatic), DPC (Manual), One Shot Zero, Recoil Resistance, Water Resistant
- Mount: Virtually any platform with 30 mm standard mount rings (not included)
- Power: USB (type C) port for charging (charging cable included)
- Battery Life: 10 hours
- Weight: 1.4 lb
- Dimensions (inches): 11.5 x 2.2 x 2.2
The ATN Thor LT Thermal Scope has all of the essentials you need in without all of the extras. That equates to an affordable thermal scope with quality features in a lightweight package.
Even at 320 resolution, the Thor LT delivers a clear picture with the two most commonly used color options, white hot and black hot, which will cover most situations for the average hunter. Built from hardened aluminum alloy, this sturdy scope is built to withstand recoil from higher caliber weapons.
Its low power consumption means one charge lasts for 10 hours. The Thor LT offers 90mm eye relief and is easy to mount to most standard rails. Mounting requires 30 mm mount rings that are not included. The compact Thor LT also features 4 reticle options, One Shot Zero, and water resistance.
PROS
- 40mm eye relief
- Three objective lens modifications
- Focusing range of 10m to infinity
- External Battery Pack
- IP67 rated
CONS
- Lower resolution
3. AGM Secutor TS25-384 Thermal Imaging Rifle Scope
Spec Sheet
- Thermal Sensor: 17μm; 50 Hz
- Resolution (pixels): 384×288
- Magnification: 1.2x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 25mm; F/1.0
- Digital Zoom: 2x, 4x, PIP Digital Zoom
- Color Mode(s): 11 Temperature Imaging palettes
- Reticle: 5 patterns, 4 colors: Black, White, Red, Cyan
- Identification | Recognition | Detection Range: n/a | 250yd | 500yd
- Display Resolution: 1024×768 HD Display
- Eye Relief: 40 mm
- Field of View (FOV) (degrees): 15.0° x 11.2°
- Operating Temp Range: -40°F to +158°F
- Features: Stadiametric Rangefinder, NUC (Manual, Auto), DPC, Optional external video recorder and wi-fi module available (not included), Recoil Resistance, Digital Controlled Boresight Adjustment – Windage: 1.7 MOA, Elevation: 0.8 MOA, IP67- Waterproof, Shockproof
- Mount: Fits any Picatinny, MIL-STD-1913, or Weaver rail with an adjustable quick-release mount
- Power: Two CR123A (2×3V) batteries, included
- Battery Life: 5 hours
- Weight: 1.43 lbs (without batteries)
- Dimensions (inches): 9.8 x 2.8 x 3.2 (6.5 x 2.8 x 3.2 without eyecup)
- Included: Soft Carrying Case, Lens Cloth, Remote Control
The AGM Secutor TS25-384 Thermal Imaging Rifle Scope is our upgrade pick because of its impressive clarity, versatility and operating ease.
Eleven temperature imaging palettes make this versatile enough to use day or night in nearly any weather or environmental conditions. This waterproof, shockproof thermal imaging scope was made to withstand harsh conditions and even prevents internal fogging.
The control panel is intuitive and user friendly making this one of the easiest scopes to operate. A remote control allows you to make adjustments with little movement off your weapon. Information on the profile, palette, reticle, etc. is continuously displayed so you don’t have to click through settings. This was a game changer when making split second decisions in the field. The most recently selected reticle option is even saved for the next time you use it. Set up is simple and multiple profiles can be saved for use with different rifles and cartridges.
The adjustable, quick-release mount uses a lever-cam clamping device that fits any Picatinny, MIL-STD-1913, or Weaver weapon rail. Plus, an additional Picatinny/Weaver side rail allows for the installation of optional accessories like an HD Video Recorder, Wi-Fi, extended battery packs, etc. Depending on how you plan to use the Secutor, an extended battery pack may be a good idea, as the battery life is only 5 hours.
A stadiametric rangefinder and recoil resistance rounds out the features of this solid choice. Even with all of the features, it is relatively lightweight at just 1.4 lb. Although it lacks the video recording features of our top pick, the quality of this option makes it a good choice if you have the budget for it.
PROS
- Impressive clarity
- Versatile in many conditions
- Durable
- Widest Operating Temp Range
- Two-side rail for additional equipment
- Various profiles for different rifles/cartridges
CONS
- Not variable power
4. AGM Rattler TS25-384 Thermal Imaging Rifle Scope
Spec Sheet
- Thermal Sensor: 17 μm, 50Hz
- Resolution (pixels): 384×288
- Magnification: 1.5x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 25mm, F/1.0
- Digital Zoom: 1x, 2x, 4x, 8x, PIP
- Color Modes: Adjustable Color Palettes: White Hot, Black Hot, Fusion, Red Hot
- Scene Modes: Recognition, Jungle
- Reticle: 5 Types, 3 colors – white, green, red
- Identification | Recognition | Detection Range: n/a | n/a | 880 m/yd
- Display Resolution: 1024×768 OLED
- Eye Relief: 45mm
- Field of View (FOV) (degrees): 14.9° x 11.2°
- Operating Temp Range: -4°F to +131°F
- Features: NUC (Auto, Manual, External Correction), DPC (Manual), Video Record, Wi-Fi, Built-in EMMC (16 GB), Hot Track, Stadiametric Rangefinder, Auto Power Off, Automatic or manual (silent) calibration, Boresight Adjustment 0.27 mil / 0.91 MOA, Protection – IP67, Waterproof, Shockproof
- Mount: Comes fully-assembled with a Picatinny/Weaver mount attached to the scope.
- Power: Two standard CR123A or RCR123A rechargeable batteries
- Battery Life: 4.5 hours
- Weight: 1.1 lb (without batteries)
- Dimensions (inches): 7.37 × 2.46 × 2.33
This versatile pick can be used as a thermal rifle scope or handheld thermal monocular in many different lighting and weather/environmental conditions.
This is one of just two picks under $2k that have 384 resolution and the picture is excellent. One reviewer was impressed with the distinct separation at the edges, and the excellent contrast between the orange and purple. Plus this option features video recording and an onboard wi-fi module for live video streaming and recording via an app. The functions are well-defined and large padded buttons are easy to find and operate in low lighting.
The Rattler comes fully-assembled with a Picatinny/Weaver mount. One drawback are the large boresight adjustments which may take some getting used to.
PROS
- Many quality features at a low price point
- Impressive detection/recognition
- On-board video recording and wi-fi
- User-friendly interface
- Good for experienced and new users
CONS
- Boresight adjustments are large
5. Burris BTS 35 Thermal Rifle Scope
Spec Sheet
- Thermal Sensor: 17μm, 50Hz
- Resolution (pixels): 400×300
- Magnification: 2.3 – 9.2x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 35mm, F1.2
- Digital Zoom: 2x, 4x
- Color Mode(s): 5 Palettes: black hot, white hot, red hot 1, 2, and 3, green hot, blue hot
- Reticle: 10 options, black or white
- Identification | Recognition | Detection Range: n/a
- Display Resolution: 1024×768 Color OLED
- Eye Relief: 48mm
- Field of View (FOV) (degrees): 10.7°x8.0°
- Operating Temp Range: n/a
- Features: NUC (Manual, Auto), Hot Track, Stadiametric rangefinder, Auto Power Off, IP67 – Waterproof
- Mount: Picatinny Rail
- Power: 1×18650
- Battery Life: 3 hours
- Weight: 1.44 lb
- Dimensions (inches): 9 x 3.5 x 2.9
The Burris BTS 35 Thermal Rifle Scope offers the highest resolution of all our budget picks at 400×300. Five color palette options make it versatile to use day or night in many different conditions. Compared to other scopes, reviewers thought the Burris BTS Thermal Scopes performed better than all of the others in daylight. It was easy to use with one hand using one intuitive scroll button that controls everything. Wifi-to-Mobile lets you control it with your smartphone if you prefer.
One of the best features of this thermal scope is the hot track technology which is a game changer for increasing tracking acquisition speed. Together with the 10 MIL reticle options and stadiametric rangefinder, which provided precise distances to targets, this scope was a dream for precision shooting.
This pick has the shortest battery life of everything we tested, but the auto-off function helps with that. If you need the extended battery life, just about any USB power bank can be plugged into scope using the provided 4 pin video cable. If you have the space, you can get one that attaches to a picatinny rail.
PROS
- Impressive image clarity
- Fast target acquisition
- Versatile use in many conditions
- Precise rangefinder
- Intuitive, one-hand operation
CONS
- No bullet compensation
- Shortest Battery Life
- Cover not included
LONG RANGE THERMAL RIFLE SCOPES
6. ATN ThOR LT 4-8x35mm and 5-10x50mm Thermal Scope
Spec Sheet
- Thermal Sensor: 12μm, 60 Hz
- Resolution (pixels): 320×240
- Magnification: 4-8x, 5-10x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 35mm, 50mm
- Digital Zoom: Step Zoom
- Color Mode(s): White Hot, Black Hot Mode
- Reticle: 4 Patterns
- Identification | Recognition | Detection Range: 400m, 415m | 680m, 710m |1510m, 1620m
- Display Resolution: 1280×720 HD Display
- Eye Relief: 90 mm
- Field of View (FOV) (degrees): 6.3×4.7, 4.4×3.3
- Operating Temp Range: -20°F to +120°F
- Features: NUC (Automatic), DPC (Manual), Water resistant, One Shot Zero
- Mount: virtually any platform with 30 mm standard mount rings (not included)
- Power: USB (type C) port for charging (cable included)
- Battery Life: 10 hours
- Weight: 1.4 lb
- Dimensions (inches): 11.5 x 2.2 x 2.2
The ATN Thor LT Thermal Scope has all of the essentials you need in a thermal rifle scope without all of the extras. That equates to an affordable thermal scope with the quality features you need in a lightweight package. In fact, this is the only long range option under $2,000 on our list (at the time of publishing).
Even at 320 resolution, the Thor LT delivers a clear picture with the two most commonly used color options, white hot and black hot, which will cover most situations for the average hunter. Built from hardened aluminum alloy, this sturdy scope is built to withstand recoil from higher caliber weapons.
It’s low power consumption means one charge lasts for 10 hours. The Thor LT offers 90mm eye relief and is easy to mount to most standard rails. Mounting requires 30 mm mount rings that are not included. The compact Thor LT also features 4 reticle options, One Shot Zero, and water resistance.
PROS
- Most affordable long range lens
- Lightweight
- 3" eye relief
- 10 hour battery life
- Solid essentials-only setup
- Recoil resistant
CONS
- Lower resolution
7. ATN ThOR 4 4.5-18x50mm Smart HD Thermal Rifle Scope
Spec Sheet
- Thermal Sensor: 60 Hz
- Resolution (pixels): 384×288
- Magnification: 4.5-18x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm
- Digital Zoom: Standard and Extended Zoom of 10x optical zoom; Smooth Zoom
- Color Mode(s): Black Hot, Color Mode, White Hot
- Reticle: Smart Mil Dot (2.0-10); Multiple Patterns & Color Options
- Identification | Recognition | Detection Range: 430m | 720m | 1800m
- Display Resolution: 1280×720 HD
- Eye Relief: 90 mm
- Field of View (FOV) (degrees): 6×4.7
- Operating Temp Range: -20°F to +120°F
- Features: NUC, DPC, Smart Range Finder, Ballistic Calculator, Pitch Scale shows rifle inclination based on internal 3D Gyroscope, 3D Accelerometer, e-Barometer Video Record (60fps), Photo Preview, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, 720p Streaming, Recoil Activated Video, Recoil resistant components, Expandable MicroSD – up to 64GB, Water resistant
- Mount: 30 mm standard rings and one L shape ring (included)
- Power: USB (type C) port for charging (charging cable included)
- Battery Life: 16 hours
- Weight: 2.2 lb
- Dimensions (inches): 13.8 x 3 x 3
The ATN ThOR 4 384 4.5-18x50mm Thermal Smart HD Rifle Scope is the big brother of our #1 pick. It has all the same features, but with a 50mm lens that increases the identification range to an impressive 430 meters.
The 384 resolution provides high quality image clarity. Three color palettes (Black Hot, White Hot, and Color) make this thermal scope useful day or night in many poor weather or environmental conditions.
With all of the features, it is fairly easy to use with a spin to zoom wheel and tactile buttons that give you tactile feedback as you click so you can operate it without taking your eyes off the target. Mounting on most rails is simple with the included 30mm rings giving you 90mm eye relief, the most of all of the options we reviewed. An L-shape ring is also included if you need extra eye relief for certain setups.
The most useful features for hunting are the ballistic calculator, rangefinder, and programmable mil dot reticle which all work together to help you get the shot. Based on ballistic information picked up by the Smart Range Finder, the scope automatically adjusts your reticle POI for bullet drop.
This Wi-Fi enabled scope allows you to simultaneously record video and sound at high resolution and live stream using your phone or tablet. When a shot is fired and your scope experiences recoil, Recoil Activated Video (RAV) automatically records video prior to the shot being taken and some time after. Those settings are adjustable. This feature isn’t perfect as some airguns may not provide enough recoil for RAV to be activated. Bluetooth allows other ATN smart accessories to communicate with your scope, furthering its usefulness.
This pick has the longest battery life of all of the options we tested. On the other hand, it’s also the largest, so expect a scope loaded with all of these features to add a bit of heft.
PROS
- Recoil activated video
- Simultaneously record and stream
- Long battery life
- Integrated range finder, ballistics calc, and reticle
CONS
- Hefty
8. AGM Rattler TS35-384 Thermal Imaging Rifle Scope
Spec Sheet
- Thermal Sensor: 17 μm, 50Hz
- Resolution (pixels): 384×288
- Magnification: 2.14x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 35mm, F/1.0
- Digital Zoom: 1x, 2x, 4x, 8x, PIP
- Color Mode(s): Adjustable Color Palettes: White Hot, Black Hot, Fusion, Red Hot
- Scene Modes: Recognition, Jungle
- Reticle: 5 Types, 3 colors – white, green, red
- Identification | Recognition | Detection Range: n/a | n/a | 1235 m/yd
- Display Resolution: 1024×768 OLED
- Eye Relief: 45mm
- Field of View (FOV) (degrees): 10.0° x 8.0°
- Operating Temp Range: -4°F to +131°F
- Features: NUC (Auto, Manual, External Correction), DPC (Manual), Video Record, Wi-Fi, Memory – Built-in EMMC (16 GB), Hot Track, Stadiametric Rangefinder, Auto Power Off, Automatic or manual (silent) calibration, Boresight Adjustment 0.37 mil / 1.28 MOA, Protection – IP67, Waterproof, Shockproof
- Mount: Comes fully-assembled with a Picatinny/Weaver mount attached to the scope with two screws.
- Power: Two standard CR123A or RCR123A rechargeable batteries
- Battery Life: 4.5 hours
- Weight: 1.13 lb (without batteries)
- Dimensions (inches): 7.37 × 2.46 × 2.33
The versatile AGM Rattler TS35-384 Thermal Imaging Rifle Scope is the long-range big brother of one of the short range picks in this list. Like the TS25, it can be used as a thermal rifle scope or handheld thermal monocular in many different lighting and weather/environmental conditions.
At 384 resolution, the picture is excellent. This option features video recording and an onboard wi-fi module for live video streaming and recording via an app. The functions are well-defined and large padded buttons are easy to find and operate in low lighting.
The Rattler comes fully-assembled with a Picatinny/Weaver mount. One drawback are the large boresight adjustments which may take some getting used to.
PROS
- Light and compact
- On-board video recording and wi-fi
- User-friendly interface
- Versatile in many conditions
- Good for experienced and new users
- Impressive detection/recognition
CONS
- Boresight adjustments are large
9. Burris BTS 50 3.3-13.2x50mm Thermal Rifle Scope
Spec Sheet
- Thermal Sensor: 17μm, 50Hz
- Resolution (pixels): 400×300
- Magnification: 3.3-13.2x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm, F1.2
- Digital Zoom: 2x, 4x
- Color Mode(s): 5 Palettes: black hot, white hot, red hot 1, 2, and 3, green hot, blue hot
- Reticle: 10 options, black or white
- Identification | Recognition | Detection Range: n/a | n/a | 1400 yd
- Display Resolution: 1024×768 Color OLED
- Eye Relief: 48mm
- Field of View (FOV) (degrees): 7.5°x5.6°
- Operating Temp Range: n/a
- Features: NUC (Manual, Auto), Hot Track, Stadiametric rangefinder, Auto Power Off, IP67 – Waterproof
- Mount: Picatinny Rail
- Power: 1×18650
- Battery Life: 3h standard; 5h with 3400 mAh high-output battery
- Weight: 1.56 lb
- Dimensions (inches): 9 x 3.5 x 2.9
The Burris BTS 50 Thermal Rifle Scope, the long range cousin of the BTS 35, offers the highest resolution of all our budget picks at 400×300. Five color palette options make it versatile to use day or night in many different conditions. Compared to other scopes, reviewers thought the Burris BTS Thermal Scopes performed better than all of the others in daylight. It was easy to use with one hand using one intuitive scroll button that controls everything. Wifi-to-Mobile lets you control it with your smartphone if you prefer.
One of the best features of this thermal scope is the hot track technology which is a game changer for increasing tracking acquisition speed. Together with the 10 MIL reticle options and stadiametric rangefinder, which provided precise distances to targets, this scope was a dream for precision shooting.
This pick has the shortest battery life of everything we tested, but the auto-off function helps with that. If you need the extended battery life, just about any USB power bank can be plugged into scope using the provided 4 pin video cable. If you have the space, you can get one that attaches to a picatinny rail.
PROS
- Impressive image clarity
- Fast target acquisition
- Versatile use in many conditions
- Precise rangefinder
- Intuitive, one-hand operation
CONS
- No bullet compensation
- Shortest Battery Life
- Cover not included
10. AGM Adder TS50-384 Thermal Imaging Rifle Scope
Spec Sheet
- Thermal Sensor: 12μm high-sensitivity detector, 50 Hz, < 35 mK (25°C, F# = 1.0)
- Resolution (pixels): 384×288
- Magnification: 4× – 32×
- Objective Lens Diameter: 50 mm; F/1.0
- Digital Zoom: 1x, 2x, 4x, 8x digital zoom
- Color Mode(s): Black Hot, White Hot, Red Hot, Fusion
- Scene Modes: Jungle, Recognition
- Reticle: 5 types, 4 colors
- Identification | Recognition | Detection Range: n/a | n/a | 2600 meters
- Display Resolution: 1024×768 OLED
- Eye Relief: ≥ 60 mm
- Field of View (FOV) (degrees): 5.2° × 3.9°
- Operating Temp Range: -22°F to +131°F
- Features: NUC (Auto, Manual, External Correction), DPC, Stadiametric Rangefinder (optional laser rangefinder available separately), Standby mode, Digital Controlled Boresight Adjustment (0.09 mil / 0.31 MOA), Protection: IP67, 64GB EMMC, wi-fi, bluetooth
- Mount: Standard scope mounts for 30mm tubes
- Power: Two 18650 Rechargeable Batteries (built-in) and one CR123 Battery
- Battery Life: 15 hours
- Weight: 2.14 lb (w/o mount)
- Dimensions (inches): 16.5 × 3.1 × 3.2 (without mount)
The AGM Adder TS50-384 Thermal Imaging Rifle Scope is our upgrade pick for extreme long distance boasting a detection range up to 2,600 meters. This waterproof and shockproof scope can keep up in the field with 15 hours of battery life and 64GB of onboard storage for video/audio recording and snapshots. The dual power system has two built-in rechargeable batteries and one CR123A replaceable Lithium battery.
Shot Activated Recording (SAR) lets you focus on your shot without having to press record. Various reticle types and colors along with several adjustable color palettes give you options to use this in many scenarios and different environments.
PROS
- 15 hour battery life
- Shot Activated Recording
- 64 GB on-board storage
- Extreme detection range up to 2600m
- Wi-fi / Bluetooth enabled
CONS
- High price point
- Large and heavy
Things to Consider
Pricing
Thermal rifle scopes have a broad price range starting around $1,000 and going upwards of $10,000. Resolution is a primary driver of price point, especially in lower priced models. Even if your budget is tight, we don’t recommend settling for a cheap thermal rifle scope with low resolution, because it makes identification very difficult. It may not seem like a big deal until you are in the field struggling to identify the fuzzy heat signature on your screen.
If you need a thermal scope around $1000, we recommend the little brothers of some of our top picks, like the AGM Rattler TS25-256.
As you research, you’ll find several thermal scopes below $2000. You may also try a clip-on thermal riflescope which are often less expensive because they are designed to work with a rifle scope you already own.
One-Shot Zero
A thermal scope with the One-Shot Zero feature means you can take a shot, adjust your reticle, and your next shot should be zeroed in.
Power Consumption
The importance of battery life will vary depending on how you plan to you use your thermal scope. If you are going to be away from a power source and in the field for an extended period of time, you may not be happy having to change out batteries a few hours in.
Most scopes will either have a built-in battery that plusg in to a power source to charge or they will use rechargeable batteries. An external battery pack can generally be used with most models which can significantly extend battery life. The downside is that it also adds weight.
Some scopes have power-saving features like auto-shutoff timers or standby modes to help conserve power.
Weight
Thermal scopes are generally lightweight and compact, but added features increase the weight and footprint. Less expensive scopes may be heavier because they don’t make use of more expensive, lighter weight components.
Related Posts:
Durability
While weight is an essential factor, so is durability. Options that are recoil resistant and shockproof are built to withstand normal jolts that are inherent in shooting. Another factor important in its durability is waterproof/ weatherproof ratings.
Ballistic Calculator
It is also suggested that you buy a thermal scope that offers a ballistic calculator to help you find your targets easier. It will convert environmental data and target information into a trajectory correction to help you more accurately hit your target.
IR Technology
Thermal technology detects heat as electromagnetic radiation emitted by objects and beings within the infrared spectrum. Infrared thermal imagers detect that radiation ‘heat’ and convert it to an image that we can see with our eyes.
IR wireless uses wireless technology in devices or systems that convey data through infrared (IR) radiation. IR wireless is used for short- and medium-range communications and control. Some systems operate in line-of-sight mode; this means that there must be a visually unobstructed straight line through space between the transmitter (source) and receiver (destination). [1]
When it comes to night vision vs thermal imaging, night vision requires at least a bit of ambient light to provide a picture while thermal imagers can be used regardless of lighting conditions, even in complete darkness.
Reticles
Another important factor that helps with accurate shot placement are your scope’s reticles. Having a variety of reticle options makes adjusting your shot to your conditions and preferences much easier. Most scopes offer at least two reticle options, but others offer as many ten with multiple colors to ensure reticle visibility even in different conditions.
Magnification
The right magnification for your thermal hunting scope is based on range. Lower magnification is used for short range and higher magnification makes it possible to detect and identify thermal markers at extremely long ranges. The higher the magnification, the lower your field of view.
High magnification power doesn’t equate to image clarity. Resolution is the best indicator for how clean the image is going to be.
Advantages of Owning Affordable Thermal Scopes
Thermal imaging scopes work to provide visibility in total darkness, allowing you to “see” through smoke, heavy cover, rain, or fog. Thermal scopes can also be used in daylight. Depending on your budget, you don’t have to sacrifice great features to own a scope that meets your needs. Many options with great features are available at lower costs.
And Our #1 Budget Thermal Rifle Scope is...
Our team unanimously chose the ATN ThOR 4 384 1.25-5x Thermal Smart HD Rifle Scope as the best budget thermal scope after this research-intensive review. It is packed full of features typically found on thermal scopes costing much more. This 384 resolution scope has the longest battery life of all of the options we tested. The ballistic calculator, rangefinder, and programmable reticle all work together to help you get the shot. Plus, this wi-fi enabled scope even simultaneously records video while you live stream.
Our #1 Recommendation
ATN ThOR 4 384 1.25-5x Thermal Smart HD Rifle Scope
- Recoil activated video
- Simultaneously record and stream
- Long battery life
- Integrated range finder, ballistics calc, and reticle
- Many features at a lower price point
- 10 Best AR 10 Upper Receivers (2022 Updated) - June 9, 2022
- How to Buy a Gun Online (2022 UPDATED) Read This First - February 25, 2022
- 5 Best Muzzle Brakes for 300 Win Mag (2022 UPDATE) - October 18, 2021
