10 Best Thermal Monoculars 2025 in the UK

The Pulsar Axion XQ30 Pro is a thermal monocular designed for outdoor enthusiasts and professionals needing reliable thermal imaging. It features an upgraded thermal sensor and offers observation with eight different color palettes, enhancing visibility and detection of heat signatures in various environments. The device has a field of view of 13.3 feet, providing a decent range for spotting objects.

With dimensions of 30 x 20 x 10 cm, the monocular is relatively compact and portable, though it may be somewhat bulky for prolonged handheld use. Its ergonomic design aims to ensure comfort during extended periods of use. The monocular offers a fixed focus and a digital eyepiece lens, which may limit flexibility for users needing adjustable focus options. It has a 7-hour battery life, which is adequate for typical outings, and fast charging reduces downtime.

The device is compatible with Stream Vision 2, allowing users to connect to smartphones and tablets for easy sharing and viewing of thermal images. The Pulsar Axion XQ30 Pro is best suited for those who prioritize advanced thermal imaging features and connectivity options, while those needing adjustable focus or longer battery life might find some limitations.

The TOPDON TS004 thermal monocular offers a solid set of features for outdoor use like hunting or exploration. Its effective resolution reaches up to 320x240 pixels with image enhancement, which is good for clear thermal images even in total darkness. The refresh rate of 50 Hz ensures smooth viewing, which helps when tracking moving subjects. It has a detection range of about 410 meters, suitable for spotting heat sources at a reasonable distance, with a 13.5° field of view that balances detail and situational awareness.

The device weighs 640 grams and measures 21x10x9 cm, making it fairly portable but not ultra-lightweight. One strong point is its long battery life—up to 11 hours—allowing extended use without frequent recharging, and 32GB of storage lets you save many photos and videos. The TS004 also supports wireless connection to smartphones, which is handy for live viewing and easy sharing.

The fixed focus lens means you can’t adjust sharpness manually, and while the 13mm lens provides good detection, it might not capture very fine details at longer ranges. Its rugged build and IP67 waterproof rating make it durable in tough conditions. This monocular suits users needing reliable thermal imaging on a budget, especially for general outdoor activities, though professionals wanting higher resolution or adjustable focus might prefer other models.

The Pulsar Axion 2 XQ35 Pro thermal imaging monocular is a compact device aimed at users needing reliable thermal detection in various conditions. With a field of view of 14.6 degrees and a 35mm objective lens, it offers good visibility and detection capabilities, making it suitable for outdoor enthusiasts or professionals needing detailed thermal imagery. Weighing 470 grams, it strikes a balance between portability and robustness, which is crucial for prolonged field use.

Compatibility with smartphones and tablets suggests it can integrate with other devices for extended functionality, a plus for tech-savvy users. The multi-coated lenses promise improved image clarity by reducing glare and enhancing light transmission, which is beneficial in low-light settings.

While it showcases some promising features, it might best serve those prioritizing device compatibility and basic thermal detection rather than high-end precision or long-range applications.