What is better, a thermal imager or a NVD?

Vision is the most important way for a person to perceive the world around him. We receive all the information about what is happening around us through vision. Nature has awarded us with the most complex and perfect organ for this purpose - the eyes, but their capabilities also have a limit. The human eye perceives not the entire spectrum of light radiation, but only a part of it - visible light. The quality of the image perceived by our eye directly depends on the level of illumination. With a decrease in light, color information gradually disappears and details become blurred. First, we lose the ability to distinguish small details, texture, then the accurate perception of the shape of the object disappears.

Night vision device or thermal imager?

All hunters know about the difficulties associated with night observation. Unlike wild animals, humans are not very well adapted to active activity in the dark. Modern technologies have given humanity the ability to see in the dark, overcoming the limitations of the human eye. This has been made possible by the development and refinement of NDV, sophisticated optoelectronic systems that convert infrared (IR) radiation, invisible to the human eye, or extremely weak visible radiation, into an image that can be observed.

Even those who are not familiar with hunting optics have heard of devices such as thermal imagers and night vision devices. To understand how these devices work and make the best choice, it is necessary to conduct a careful analysis.

How does a night vision device work?

Night vision devices include three main components: two optical elements and an electron-optical converter. Their operation is based on a simple principle: background radiation hits the lens, then passes through the EOP unit, where the signal is amplified and converted into electronic, which is displayed on the display, forming the usual image. This scheme is used in night vision devices of all generations (there are currently three of them), the difference lies in the capabilities and power of the EOP unit. It should be noted that such a device requires at least a minimal light source to operate, so it does not work in the dark. The exception is night vision devices that are equipped with a built-in infrared light source for illumination, which allows you to expand the wavelength range to 1400 nm.

How does a thermal imager work?

Thermal imagers work differently from night vision devices. Thermal imagers analyze the electromagnetic radiation in the infrared range, which is emitted by all objects in the field of view. This allows you to conduct observations even in the dark or in conditions of limited visibility.

A thermal imager works by analyzing thermal signatures and converting them into images. Due to their high sensitivity, such devices can record even slight changes in temperature. Typically, objects with a low temperature are displayed less noticeably, while more important elements are highlighted in bright colors.

In the NVECTECH online store you can buy Patriot 2 thermal imaging monoculars:

• L19, L25, L35, L50, 2LPro 50 (384x288/12um)
• H50 (640x512/12um) 

When to use a night vision device

Night vision device: Ideal for conditions where there is at least minimal lighting and high accuracy is required. For example, when performing tactical tasks or when observing wildlife at night.

Advantages:

• long operating time;
• excellent visibility;
• affordable cost;
• the ability to use in the dark.

Disadvantages:

• lack of ability to detect targets by heat trace;
• inappropriate for use during the day.

When to choose a thermal imager

Thermal imagers: Ideal for searching and observing in conditions of lack of light or adverse weather. For example, they can be used for hunting, search and rescue operations, or security.

Advantages:

• use at any time of the day;
• the ability to adjust depending on the terrain and weather conditions;
• the availability of photo and video shooting with the ability to further record and display on the screen;
• good range indicators.

Disadvantages:

• intended only for experienced hunters, requires appropriate skills and experience;
• does not work through minor obstacles, such as glass;
• does not detect targets that do not emit heat.

If you decide to purchase a thermal imager, the first step will be to determine the type of device you need:

1. a separate observation device (monocular, binoculars or glasses);
2. a thermal imaging device that can be mounted on a rifle (sight or attachment).

- A monocular is the most popular type of thermal imager. Compact and lightweight thermal imaging monoculars are very convenient for hunting, they are easy to fit in a backpack or pocket of a hunting jacket, or hang around your neck.

- Experts recommend purchasing a thermal imaging sight in combination with a traditional sighting device, if your budget allows it. Such a set will provide maximum convenience and efficiency during hunting. NVECTECH has developed the Defender thermal imaging device, aimed at gun owners. It is fully adapted for operation in difficult conditions and is equipped with modern technologies. This device has become a real standard in the field of thermal imaging technologies.

Night vision device and thermal imager difference

Night vision devices are used to observe and identify objects and targets at night. They are used by rescuers, security services, border guards. During hunting, they are used to observe animal behavior and track wild animals at night.

Thermal imaging cameras do not depend on lighting. They react to the radiation of the object and can work in absolute darkness, twilight or daylight. Bad weather conditions and bushes do not interfere with observation. A thermal imager distinguishes camouflaged equipment and people, as well as animals against the background of leaves or snow, regardless of natural camouflage. That is why thermal imagers have recently become popular among hunters.

The operation of both devices is based on infrared radiation, but there are still differences:

- Thermal imaging cameras use waves with a length of 8-14 microns.

- In night vision devices, the visible spectrum can reach 1 micron.

On the left in the photo is an image of the NVD, and on the right is a thermal imager.

Another feature of thermal imaging cameras is their resistance to shocks. The NVD lens has an engraved grid and a spring mechanism that moves in a reciprocating manner. In the thermal imager, the data is displayed on a monitor that is firmly fixed in the device body. Therefore, no moving parts are required, which makes the device more reliable.

An important advantage of thermal imaging cameras over night vision devices is the viewing range. Even cheap models of thermal imaging devices allow you to see objects at a distance of up to 300 m.

A night vision device does not always help to see a motionless animal in the bushes. It is also difficult to detect the tracks of a wounded animal in the grass.

Choosing the right device for night hunting is not an easy task. On the one hand, there is a thermal imager that provides a clearer image, on the other hand, there is a more affordable and also reliable device that can be supplemented with an infrared illuminator with the desired range. It is impossible to say for sure that one option is better than the other. It all depends on your financial capabilities, the goals of using the device, and many other factors. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide what to choose.