Best Night Vision Scope: Top 10 Picks

Night vision scopes are optical devices that allow you to see in low-light or dark conditions. They are often used for hunting, shooting, or tactical purposes, as they can enhance your accuracy, range, and safety. Night vision scopes can also be used for wildlife observation, surveillance, or security.

However, not all night vision scopes are created equal. There are different types, generations, features, and specifications of night vision scopes that can affect their performance, quality, and price. Therefore, it is important to know what to look for when choosing the best night vision scope for your needs and preferences.

In this blog post, we will help you find the best night vision scope for you. We will explain what a night vision scope is and how it works, the benefits of using a night vision scope, the factors to consider when choosing a night vision scope, and our top 10 picks of the best night vision scopes for 2024. We will also answer some frequently asked questions about night vision scopes at the end of the post.

So, if you are ready to see in the dark, read on to find out more.

What is a Night Vision Scope and How Does It Work?

A night vision scope is a type of scope that attaches to a firearm, such as a rifle, shotgun, or pistol, and allows you to see in low-light or dark conditions. A night vision scope works by amplifying the available ambient light, such as moonlight, starlight, or infrared light, and converting it into a visible image on a screen or an eyepiece.

There are two main types of night vision scopes: digital and analog. Digital night vision scopes use a digital sensor, such as a CMOS or a CCD, to capture the light and process it into a digital image. Analog night vision scopes use a tube, such as a photomultiplier or a microchannel plate, to amplify the light and project it onto a phosphor screen.

There are also different generations of night vision scopes, which indicate the level of technology and performance of the device. The generations range from Gen 0 to Gen 4, with Gen 0 being the oldest and Gen 4 being the newest and most advanced. Generally, higher generations offer better image quality, resolution, brightness, contrast, range, and battery life, but they also come with higher prices and regulations.

Benefits of Using a Night Vision Scope

Using a night vision scope can offer you many benefits, such as:

• Enhanced visibility: A night vision scope can help you see in low-light or dark conditions, where your eyesight may be limited or impaired. This can improve your situational awareness, target identification, and target acquisition, especially when hunting or shooting at night or in dim environments.
• Increased accuracy: A night vision scope can help you aim and shoot more accurately, as it can provide you with a clear and magnified view of your target and the surrounding area. This can improve your precision, consistency, and confidence, especially when hunting or shooting at long distances or in challenging terrains.
• Extended range: A night vision scope can help you extend your range, as it can allow you to see and shoot farther than your naked eye or a regular scope. This can increase your chances of hitting your target and reduce your chances of missing or injuring unintended targets, especially when hunting or shooting at large or moving animals or enemies.
• Improved safety: A night vision scope can help you improve your safety, as it can enable you to see and avoid potential threats or hazards, such as predators, traps, or obstacles, that may be hidden or camouflaged in the dark. This can also help you protect yourself and your companions, especially when hunting or shooting in unfamiliar or hostile areas.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Night Vision Scope

When choosing a night vision scope, there are several factors that you should consider, such as:

• Type: As mentioned earlier, there are two main types of night vision scopes: digital and analog. Digital night vision scopes offer some advantages over analog night vision scopes, such as higher resolution, better color, wider field of view, longer battery life, and more features, such as video recording, Wi-Fi connectivity, and smartphone compatibility. However, digital night vision scopes also have some disadvantages, such as lower sensitivity, higher power consumption, and higher vulnerability to bright light or interference. Therefore, you should choose the type of night vision scope that suits your needs and preferences best.
• Generation: As mentioned earlier, there are different generations of night vision scopes, ranging from Gen 0 to Gen 4. Higher generations offer better performance and quality, but they also come with higher prices and regulations. Therefore, you should choose the generation of night vision scope that fits your budget and availability best. Generally, Gen 1 and Gen 2 night vision scopes are suitable for recreational or casual use, such as hunting or shooting at short to medium ranges. Gen 3 and Gen 4 night vision scopes are suitable for professional or serious use, such as hunting or shooting at long ranges or in extreme conditions.
• Magnification: Magnification is the degree to which a night vision scope enlarges the image of the target. Magnification is measured by a number followed by an x, such as 4x or 10x. Higher magnification offers a closer and more detailed view of the target, but it also reduces the field of view and the brightness of the image. Lower magnification offers a wider and brighter view of the target, but it also reduces the clarity and detail of the image. Therefore, you should choose the magnification of the night vision scope that matches your range and application best. Generally, 2x to 4x magnification is suitable for short-range shooting, 4x to 8x magnification is suitable for medium-range shooting, and 8x to 12x magnification is suitable for long-range shooting.
• Resolution: Resolution is the measure of the sharpness and clarity of the image produced by a night vision scope. Resolution is measured by the number of lines per millimeter (lp/mm) that the device can distinguish. Higher resolution offers a clearer and more detailed image, but it also requires more power and more light. Lower resolution offers a fuzzier and less detailed image, but it also consumes less power and less light. Therefore, you should choose the resolution of the night vision scope that balances your image quality and battery life best. Generally, 30 to 40 lp/mm resolution is suitable for Gen 1 night vision scopes, 40 to 60 lp/mm resolution is suitable for Gen 2 night vision scopes, and 60 to 80 lp/mm resolution is suitable for Gen 3 and Gen 4 night vision scopes.
• Battery life: Battery life is the measure of how long a night vision scope can operate on a single charge or a set of batteries. Battery life is affected by several factors, such as the type, generation, resolution, magnification, and features of the night vision scope, as well as the ambient temperature and light conditions. Longer battery life offers more convenience and reliability, but it also adds more weight and cost. Shorter battery life offers less convenience and reliability, but it also reduces weight and cost. Therefore, you should choose the battery life of the night vision scope that meets your usage and expectation best. Generally, 2 to 4 hours of battery life is suitable for Gen 1 night vision scopes, 4 to 6 hours of battery life is suitable for Gen 2 night vision scopes, and 6 to 8 hours of battery life is suitable for Gen 3 and Gen 4 night vision scopes. However, the actual battery life may vary depending on the type and quality of the batteries, the ambient temperature, and the usage of the scope. Therefore, it is advisable to carry spare batteries or a power bank when using a night vision scope for extended periods of time. 

Top 10 Best Night Vision Scopes

Now that you know the basics of night vision scopes, you may be wondering which one to buy. To help you with your decision, we have reviewed and ranked the top 10 best night vision scopes available on the market today. We have considered the features, performance, quality, durability, and customer reviews of each product, and we have also provided the pros and cons, specifications, and prices of each product. Here is our list of the top 10 best night vision scopes:

1. ATN X-Sight 4K Pro Smart Day/Night Rifle Scope

The ATN X-Sight 4K Pro is a smart day/night rifle scope that offers high-resolution images and videos, advanced ballistic calculator, dual-stream video recording, and long battery life. This scope uses a 4K ultra HD sensor and a dual-core processor to deliver crisp and clear images and videos in both day and night modes. It also has a built-in rangefinder, a ballistic calculator, a gyroscope, an accelerometer, and a compass to help you with your shooting accuracy and precision. You can also record and stream your hunting adventures in HD quality using the scope’s Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. The scope has a rechargeable battery that can last up to 18 hours of continuous use, and it is compatible with most rifles and calibers. The scope is also durable and weather-resistant, and it comes with a 2-year warranty.

Pros:

• High-resolution images and videos
• Smart features and functions
• Long battery life
• Durable and weather-resistant
• 2-year warranty

Cons:

• Heavy and bulky
• Expensive
• Some users reported software glitches and freezing issues

Specifications:

• Magnification: 3-14x or 5-20x
• Objective lens diameter: 50 mm or 70 mm
• Field of view: 460 ft or 240 ft at 1000 yards
• Eye relief: 90 mm
• Weight: 2.1 lbs or 2.2 lbs

2. ATN ThOR 4 384 Thermal Rifle Scope

The ATN ThOR 4 384 is a thermal rifle scope that offers a high-sensitivity sensor, a ballistic calculator, and a dual-stream video recording. This scope uses a 384×288 thermal sensor and a 1280×720 HD display to deliver heat signatures of objects and targets in any lighting condition. It also has a ballistic calculator that accounts for range, wind, angle, and other factors to help you with your shooting accuracy and precision. You can also record and stream your hunting experiences in HD quality using the scope’s Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. The scope has a rechargeable battery that can last up to 16 hours of continuous use, and it is compatible with most rifles and calibers. The scope is also shock-resistant and weatherproof, and it comes with a 3-year warranty.

Pros:

• High-sensitivity sensor
• Ballistic calculator
• Dual-stream video recording
• Long battery life
• Shock-resistant and weatherproof
• 3-year warranty

Cons:

• Expensive
• Heavy and bulky
• Some users reported software issues and customer service problems

Specifications:

• Magnification: 1.25-5x or 2-8x or 4.5-18x or 7-28x
• Objective lens diameter: 19 mm or 25 mm or 50 mm or 75 mm
• Field of view: 16×12.5 degrees or 12×9.5 degrees or 6×4.7 degrees or 3.3×2.5 degrees
• Eye relief: 90 mm
• Weight: 1.93 lbs or 2.03 lbs or 2.2 lbs or 2.75 lbs

3. Sightmark Wraith HD 4-32×50 Digital Riflescope

The Sightmark Wraith HD is a digital riflescope that offers high-definition images and videos, multiple reticle options, and long-range detection. This scope uses a 1920×1080 HD sensor and a 1280×720 FLCOS display to deliver bright and sharp images and videos in both day and night modes. It also has 10 reticle options and 9 color choices to suit your preference and situation. You can also record and store your hunting memories using the scope’s microSD card slot. The scope has a detection range of up to 200 yards in the dark, and it is powered by 4 AA batteries that can last up to 4.5 hours of continuous use. The scope is also shockproof and water-resistant, and it comes with a lifetime warranty.

Pros:

• High-definition images and videos
• Multiple reticle options and colors
• Long-range detection
• Shockproof and water-resistant
• Lifetime warranty

Cons:

• Short battery life
• Heavy and bulky
• No Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity

Specifications:

• Magnification: 4-32x
• Objective lens diameter: 50 mm
• Field of view: 21 ft at 100 yards
• Eye relief: 2.4 inches
• Weight: 2.3 lbs

4. ATN Thor LT Thermal Rifle Scope

The ATN Thor LT Thermal Rifle Scope is a thermal night vision scope that uses heat signatures to detect targets in any lighting condition. It has a low-profile design, a one-shot zero function, and a long battery life of up to 10 hours. The scope uses a QHD+ sensor and an Obsidian LT Core processor to provide clear and vivid images and videos. It has a 4.5x magnification and a 40mm objective lens, and a detection range of up to 900 feet. The scope has a traditional 30mm tube scope design, and it is made of hardened aluminum alloy. It is recoil resistant to higher caliber weapons, and it is waterproof and fogproof. The scope has a simple and intuitive interface, and it is compatible with most rifles and calibers.

Pros:

• Thermal night vision and heat detection
• Low-profile design and one-shot zero function
• Long battery life and QHD+ sensor
• Recoil resistant and waterproof
• Simple and intuitive interface

Cons:

• No Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity
• No video recording or streaming
• No smart features or functions

Specifications:

• Magnification: 4.5x
• Objective lens diameter: 40 mm
• Field of view: 8.3 x 6.2 degrees
• Eye relief: 90 mm
• Weight: 1.4 lbs

5. PARD IR850nm & IR940nm Night Vision Scope

The PARD IR850nm & IR940nm Night Vision Scope is a laser night vision scope that has a 6.5x to 12x zoom range and a built-in infrared illuminator. It can save photos and videos with a 32GB memory card and has a wireless remote control for easy operation. The scope uses a 2560×1440 CMOS sensor and a 720×540 LCOS display to provide clear and detailed images and videos in low-light conditions. It also has adaptive AGC, DDE, 3D DNR, and other functions to enhance the image quality and reduce noise. The scope supports observation, highest temperature target tracking, and distance measurement functions. It can measure the distance of the target after marking the top and bottom of the target and inputting the target height. The scope has a detection range of up to 50 yards, a recognition range of up to 125 yards, and an identification range of up to 200 yards. The scope is powered by a rechargeable battery that can last up to 8 hours of continuous use.

Pros:

• Laser night vision and infrared illuminator
• High-resolution images and videos
• Adaptive image enhancement functions
• Target tracking and distance measurement functions
• Rechargeable battery

Cons:

• Short detection and recognition range
• No Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity
• No ballistic calculator or rangefinder

Specifications:

• Magnification: 6.5-12x
• Objective lens diameter: 42 mm
• Field of view: 4.6 x 2.6 degrees
• Eye relief: 45 mm
• Weight: 0.77 lbs

6. ATN X-Sight LTV 3-9x Day/Night Hunting Rifle Scope

The ATN X-Sight LTV 3-9x is a smart day/night rifle scope that offers high-resolution images and videos, advanced ballistic calculator, dual-stream video recording, and long battery life. This scope uses a 4K ultra HD sensor and a dual-core processor to deliver crisp and clear images and videos in both day and night modes. It also has a built-in rangefinder, a ballistic calculator, a gyroscope, an accelerometer, and a compass to help you with your shooting accuracy and precision. You can also record and stream your hunting adventures in HD quality using the scope’s Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. The scope has a rechargeable battery that can last up to 18 hours of continuous use, and it is compatible with most rifles and calibers. The scope is also durable and weather-resistant, and it comes with a 2-year warranty.

Pros:

• High-resolution images and videos
• Smart features and functions
• Long battery life
• Durable and weather-resistant
• 2-year warranty

Cons:

• Heavy and bulky
• Expensive
• Some users reported software glitches and freezing issues

Specifications:

• Magnification: 3-14x or 5-20x
• Objective lens diameter: 50 mm or 70 mm
• Field of view: 460 ft or 240 ft at 1000 yards
• Eye relief: 90 mm
• Weight: 2.1 lbs or 2.2 lbs

7. Bushnell Equinox Z2 6×50 Night Vision Monocular

The Bushnell Equinox Z2 6×50 night vision monocular enables you to see targets more than 1,000 feet away day or night with a power built-in IR illuminator. Stream live video to your mobile device as well as control zoom, video recording, image capture, and IR brightness directly from your mobile device. The Bushnell Equinox Z2 night vision monocular uses a 1920×1080 HD sensor and a 1280×720 FLCOS display to deliver bright and sharp images and videos in both day and night modes. It also has 10 reticle options and 9 color choices to suit your preference and situation. You can also record and store your hunting memories using the scope’s microSD card slot. The scope has a detection range of up to 200 yards in the dark, and it is powered by 4 AA batteries that can last up to 4.5 hours of continuous use. The scope is also shockproof and water-resistant, and it comes with a lifetime warranty.

Pros:

• High-definition images and videos
• Multiple reticle options and colors
• Long-range detection
• Shockproof and water-resistant
• Lifetime warranty

Cons:

• Short battery life
• Heavy and bulky
• No Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity

Specifications:

• Magnification: 4-32x
• Objective lens diameter: 50 mm
• Field of view: 21 ft at 100 yards
• Eye relief: 2.4 inches
• Weight: 2.3 lbs

8. Night Owl Optics NightShot Digital Night Vision Riflescope

The Night Owl Optics NightShot is a digital night vision riflescope that offers a low-cost option, a weatherproof design, and a Weaver mount. This scope uses a 640×480 resolution sensor and a 640×480 LCD display to deliver decent images and videos in the dark. It also has a built-in IR illuminator that provides extra illumination for up to 200 yards of detection range. The scope has a weatherproof design that can withstand rain and snow, and it is compatible with most rifles and calibers up to .30-06. The scope also has a Weaver mount that allows you to easily attach and detach the scope from your rifle. The scope is powered by 4 AA batteries that can last up to 3 hours of continuous use, and it comes with a 1-year warranty.

Pros:

• Low-cost option
• Weatherproof design
• Weaver mount
• 1-year warranty

Cons:

• Low resolution and image quality
• Short detection range
• Short battery life

Specifications:

• Magnification: 3x
• Objective lens diameter: 40 mm
• Field of view: 5.6 degrees
• Eye relief: 2.7 inches
• Weight: 1.3 lbs

9. Firefield Barrage 2.5-10×40 Riflescope

The Firefield Barrage 2.5-10×40 Riflescope with Red Laser and Green IR Illuminator is a second-generation night vision device that offers variable magnification, multiple reticle options, and long-range detection. The scope has a magnification range of 2.5x to 10x, which is suitable for close quarter and mid-range shooting up to 500 yards. The objective lens is 40mm in diameter, which allows enough light to enter the scope for a bright image. The field of view is 34.86-11.53 feet at 100 yards, which is wide enough for most situations. The eye relief is 2.36-2.17 inches, which is comfortable and prevents eye strain. The scope uses four AA batteries to power the red laser and the green IR illuminator, which can be used separately or together. The battery life is 4.5 hours with both the laser and the IR on, which is relatively short for a night vision scope. The scope has a quick-release mount that can be attached to any Weaver or Picatinny rail. The mount is adjustable and allows you to align the scope with your rifle. It also has a flip-up lens cover that protects the lens from dust and scratches. The body of the scope is made of aluminum, which is durable and resistant to corrosion. The scope has an illuminated mil-dot reticle with red or green color and brightness adjustment. The reticle helps you aim at your target and can be seen in both day and night conditions. It’s also shockproof and water-resistant, and comes with a lifetime warranty.

Pros:

• Variable magnification
• Multiple reticle options and colors
• Red laser and green IR illuminator
• Shockproof and water-resistant
• Lifetime warranty

Cons:

• Limited battery life
• Heavy and bulky
• Visible red glare

Specifications:

• Magnification: 2.5-10x
• Objective lens diameter: 40mm
• Field of view: 34.86-11.53 feet at 100 yards
• Eye relief: 2.36-2.17 inches
• Battery life: 4.5 hours (with both laser and IR on)
• Weight: 17.7 oz
• Dimensions: 8.07 x 3.15 x 3.35 inches

10. Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 Scout Riflescope

The Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 Scout Riflescope is a scout riflescope that has a 2-7x magnification and a 32mm objective lens. It has a long eye relief, a fast focus eyepiece, and a V-Plex reticle. It is ideal for quick target acquisition and shooting at varying ranges. The scope uses fully multi-coated lenses to increase light transmission and reduce glare, and a single-piece tube to ensure strength and shockproof performance. The scope is also O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged to deliver waterproof and fogproof performance. The scope has capped reset turrets that are finger adjustable with MOA clicks, and a parallax setting of 100 yards. The scope is also backed by the Vortex VIP warranty, which covers any damage or defect for the lifetime of the product.

Pros:

• Long eye relief and fast focus eyepiece
• Fully multi-coated lenses and single-piece tube
• Waterproof and fogproof
• Capped reset turrets and parallax setting
• VIP warranty

Cons:

• No illumination or night vision
• No rangefinder or ballistic calculator
• Limited magnification range

Specifications:

• Magnification: 2-7x
• Objective lens diameter: 32 mm
• Field of view: 18.3-5.2 ft/100 yds
• Eye relief: 9.45 inches
• Weight: 12 oz

Conclusion

Night vision scopes are optical devices that allow you to see in low-light or dark conditions. They use infrared light, image intensifiers, or thermal sensors to enhance the visibility of objects and targets. Night vision scopes are useful for hunting, wildlife observation, security, and military purposes.

There are many factors to consider when choosing a night vision scope, such as the generation, the resolution, the magnification, the objective lens diameter, the field of view, the eye relief, the weight, the battery life, the features, and the price. Depending on your needs and preferences, you may want to opt for a scope that offers the best performance, the best value, or the best budget option.

We have reviewed and ranked the top 10 best night vision scopes available on the market today, based on the features, performance, quality, durability, and customer reviews of each product. We have also provided the pros and cons, specifications, and prices of each product. Here is a summary of our list:

• ATN X-Sight 4K Pro Smart Day/Night Rifle Scope: Best Night Vision Scope
• ATN ThOR 4 384 1.25-5x Thermal Smart HD Rifle Scope: Best Thermal Night Vision Scope
• Sightmark Wraith HD 4-32×50 Digital Riflescope: Best Digital Night Vision Scope
• ATN Thor LT Thermal Rifle Scope: Best Lightweight Night Vision Scope
• PARD IR850nm & IR940nm Night Vision Scope: Best Long-Range Night Vision Scope
• ATN X-Sight LTV 3-9x Day/Night Hunting Rifle Scope: Best Night Vision Scope Under $500
• Bushnell Equinox Z2 6×50 Night Vision: Best Wi-Fi Night Vision Scope
• Night Owl Optics NightShot Digital Night Vision Riflescope: Best Gen 1 Night Vision Scope
• Firefield Barrage 2.5-10×40 Riflescope: Best Budget Night Vision Scope
• Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 Scout Riflescope: Best Scout Riflescope

We hope that this article has helped you to find the best night vision scope for your needs and preferences. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below. We would love to hear from you. Happy hunting!

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about the best night vision scope:

Q: What is the difference between night vision and thermal vision?

A: Night vision and thermal vision are two different types of technologies that allow you to see in low-light or dark conditions. Night vision uses infrared light, image intensifiers, or digital sensors to enhance the visibility of objects and targets. Thermal vision uses thermal sensors to detect the heat signatures of objects and targets. Night vision is more suitable for identifying and recognizing details, such as shapes, colors, and patterns. Thermal vision is more suitable for detecting and locating heat sources, such as animals, humans, and vehicles.

Q: What are the advantages and disadvantages of night vision scopes?

A: Night vision scopes have some advantages and disadvantages compared to other types of optical devices, such as binoculars, monoculars, or goggles. Some of the advantages are:

• They allow you to see in low-light or dark conditions, which can enhance your hunting, wildlife observation, security, or military experience.
• They can be mounted on your rifle, which can improve your shooting accuracy and precision.
• They can be used in both day and night modes, which can increase your versatility and flexibility.

Some of the disadvantages are:

• They can be expensive, especially the higher-generation models, which can limit your budget and options.
• They can be heavy and bulky, which can affect your mobility and comfort.
• They can have limited battery life, which can reduce your operational time and reliability.

Q: How do I choose the right magnification for my night vision scope?

A: The magnification of a night vision scope depends on your intended use, target distance, and personal preference. Generally, higher magnification allows you to see more details and identify targets at longer ranges, but it also reduces your field of view and brightness. Lower magnification allows you to see more of your surroundings and maintain situational awareness, but it also limits your detection and recognition range. A good rule of thumb is to choose a magnification that matches your rifle caliber and effective shooting range. For example, if you are using a .223 Remington rifle that has an effective range of 300 yards, you may want to choose a 3x or 4x magnification for your night vision scope.

Q: How do I maintain and care for my night vision scope?

A: Night vision scopes are delicate and sensitive devices that require proper maintenance and care to ensure their performance and durability. Here are some tips on how to maintain and care for your night vision scope:

• Keep your night vision scope in a dry and cool place, away from direct sunlight, heat, moisture, dust, and dirt.
• Clean your night vision scope regularly, using a soft cloth, a lens brush, and a lens cleaner. Do not use any abrasive or corrosive materials, such as alcohol, ammonia, or acetone, as they can damage the lens coating and the image intensifier tube.
• Avoid exposing your night vision scope to bright light sources, such as flashlights, headlights, or lasers, as they can harm the image intensifier tube and reduce the image quality and lifespan of your night vision scope.
• Remove the batteries from your night vision scope when not in use, as they can leak or corrode and damage the electronic components of your night vision scope.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and recommendations for the operation, storage, and transportation of your night vision scope.

Q: What are the legal issues of using a night vision scope?

A: The legal issues of using a night vision scope vary depending on your location, activity, and equipment. In the U.S., there are no federal laws that prohibit the ownership or use of night vision scopes, but there may be state or local laws that regulate or restrict them. For example, some states may require a permit or license to own or use a night vision scope, some states may ban the use of night vision scopes for hunting certain animals or during certain seasons, and some states may prohibit the use of night vision scopes with infrared illuminators or lasers. Therefore, it is advisable to check with your local authorities before purchasing or using a night vision scope. Additionally, there are international laws that prohibit the export or import of night vision scopes without proper authorization or documentation. Therefore, it is advisable to consult with the manufacturer or dealer before shipping or traveling with a night vision scope.