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- Alfred Mendoza
- June 2, 2023
When it comes to holographic weapon sights, EOTech has already made a mark in the industry. Today, we’re comparing EOTech 512 vs XPS2 sights – two of the most highly talked about optics in our gun club. Whether you are a civilian or in a law enforcement shooting circle, choosing between the two is a daunting task. You’ll be surprised by the verdict.
Table of Contents
Key Differences Between EOTech XPS2 & 512
The key differences between the EOTech 512 vs XPS2 are on their power sources, sizes, reticles and designs. Both XPS2 and 512 are night vision incompatible and designed for close to mid-range shooting. These holographic optic models share the same 1x magnification and base reticle options. However, they differ in batteries and power. The XPS uses 1 CR123 lithium battery, while the 512 uses a standard two AA battery.
In the EOTech model series, the XPS2 is the smallest non-night vision holographic sight. The XPS2 features more reticle patterns than the 512, which only features one circle dot pattern, so it is widely used as a night vision scope.
Specification Chart
EOTech 512
- Magnification: 1x
- Low Light Capability: Not Applicable
- Waterproof: Yes
- Fogproof: Yes
- Field of View: 90′ @ 100 yds
- Travel per Rotation: ±40 MOA
- Parallax Setting: Parallax-free
- Eye Relief: Not Applicable
- Country of Manufacturer: United States of America
EOTech 518
- Magnification: 1x
- Low Light Capability: Not Applicable
- Waterproof: Yes
- Fogproof: Yes
- Field of View: 90′ @ 100 yds
- Travel per Rotation: ±40 MOA
- Parallax Setting: Parallax-free
- Eye Relief: Unlimited
- Country of Manufacturer: United States of America
Comparison Guide
Price
If you like to consider price in purchasing a scope, the 512 is a better option since it is less expensive. It should not be surprising since the XPS2 0 is a newer product, so it has more advanced features and alterations to improve its older versions. Either way, you may get a scope depending on your priorities you are going to focus on.
For another budget-friendly find, here’s the Sightmark Ultra Shot M-spec reflex sight review.
Design
One thing to consider is their designs as a selling point. Our team would lean on the XPS2 optic more because of its added features.
The XPS2 is more compact and more lightweight than the 512 Eotech. Since they almost share the same design and significantly differ in size, we decided to give another point to XPS2 optic.
Size
Well, the XPS 2 is the smallest, shortest, and lightest EOTech sight thus far. The 512 is heavier by 2.5 oz. Because of this, the XPS2 takes another win for its ultra-portable design for more convenient handling and more superior mobility.
Warranty
With EOTech HWS Prestige Warranty, you will get a 10-year limited warranty protecting consumers with whatever natural defects. EOTech would offer repair and consultation for calibration. Note that this warranty only applies to holographic model sights purchased from January 2017 or later.
For another optic with good warranty features, check out this Holosun 510C review here.
Battery Life
The 512 uses two standard AA batteries, which are larger and easier to find than the CR123 battery that the XPS2 uses. When Using more modern battery chemistries, the advantage of CR123 is more the size and voltage, not as much energy or power. [1]
The standard AA battery with 600 hours of battery life of XPS2 falls short with the 512’s standard 2 AA. The 512’s power source offers 1,000 hours of battery life, shorter than the 50,000 hours battery life of Aimpoint. Although the XPS2 models use a much shorter battery compartment, the EOTech 512 gets another win for longer battery life.
Mounting
Like most iron sights, both optics are easy to use and mount. They are also mountable with a MIL-STD-1913 or 1-inch Weaver/Picatinny rail. Both optics mount directly on a rail. The EOTech 512 requires an Allen wrench for mounting, while the XPS2 sight needs additional mounting if you want 1/3 co-witness. Since they mount with the same rail space, the result is a draw.
If you’re looking for an optic with unique mounting options, check out this Aimpoint ACRO P-1 review.
Durability
Between EOTect 512 vs XPS2, both have high-quality aluminum housings and protective hoods that protect their lenses, so their durability is par. Both are also water submersible up to 10 feet or 3 meters. Both feature multi-coated optics, illuminated holographic red dot reticles, and waterproof and fog-resistant construction.
Image Quality
Both XPS2 and 512 include the base option of one big circle and a mini dot circle. They also feature dynamic reticles that typically outperform standard red dot optics with their brightness settings. Both red dot models have a clear and crisp image, especially for close to mid-range shooting up to 200 yards. Since they share the same 68 MOA ring and 1 MOA dot reticle, the result for good brightness settings is another draw.
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Focus & Lens Clarity
Both share a memory-based setting system for focus and clarity. With only one basic button-push in setting the optic to a particular setting, even after switching off the optic, it comes back to its original setting after switching it on.
With this system, you can focus on your shot placement easier.
EOTech 512 Pros & Cons
PROS
- Excellent quality and durability
- Sight is easy to adjust
- Best for close-range shooting
- 1,000 hours battery life
- Uses standard AA batteries
CONS
- Doesn’t perform well in cold weather
- Battery cap issues
EOTech XPS2 Pros & Cons
PROS
- Sturdy and high-quality construction
- Lightweight and compact
- Shorted battery compartment and smaller battery cap
- Designed for rapid and close shooting
- More reticle option
CONS
- CR123 lithium batteries are harder to find
- Heavier
EOTech XPS2 vs EOTech 512? We Recommend...
After extensive testing out the EOTech 512 vs XPS2, we recommend the XPS2 because we find it more potent in terms of ergonomics. Its lightweight and compact design are beneficial for an extended period of hunting. Its shorter battery compartment handles recoil better. We also find its additional night vision reticle option a considerable advantage. This holographic sight has a crisp image, unlimited eye relief, and parallax-free, making it easier and more precise in shot placement.
Our #1 Recommendation
EOTech XPS2 Highlights
- Lightweight and compact
- Additional reticle pattern
- Better ergonomics
- Crisp image
- Good battery life
