Best Thermal Camera: 10 Best Thermal Imaging Cameras Right Now | Buyer’s Guide

Did you know that everything around us, whether living or nonliving, is emitting thermal energy all the time? Life would be simpler if thermal energy were visible to the naked eye, but unfortunately, it isn’t. 

This is why you need to have a thermal imaging camera, whether it is for your professional toolbox or your household. These cameras are uniquely designed to illustrate the thermal heat energy, which makes it easier to identify technical errors. For more info, follow our exclusive article on thermal imaging to know about the topic in depth. 

However, buying a thermal imaging camera is not easy due to the great number of options that are available in the market at the moment. That’s why we’ve listed the 10 best thermal imaging cameras right now so that you don’t end up with an unsatisfactory device. 

Also, we recommend you go through our detailed buyer’s guide to acknowledge the most important features to consider before you buy a thermal imaging camera. 

Now, without any further ado, let’s dive into the best thermal cameras! 

Best Thermal Imaging Cameras

Here is the list of the 10 best thermal imaging cameras that will suit any budget and purpose.

1. FLIR TG165 Spot Thermal Camera – Best for Wide Temperature Range

The first infrared camera on our list is manufactured by the world-leading thermal imaging company, FLIR Systems Inc. This brand has established a reputed position in the market with its diverse range of products and innovations. 

And, its all-new TG165 unit stands the test of time with its trail-blazing thermal imaging capabilities. Have an inside scoop on this thermal camera is its astounding features in the following sections and find out whether it’s worth your consideration or not.

Experience

For starters, the FLIR TG165 unit bridges the gap between conventional thermal imaging cameras and single spot-infrared thermometers. It’s a portable heat sensor device that comes equipped with a high-quality thermal camera and a digital thermometer.

These two features make an ideal combination for identifying warm and cold areas through thermal imaging, which comes in handy in locating the underlying issues with ease.

We’re quite satisfied with the dual laser pointers that come equipped with this sophisticated device. These pointers are well capable of measuring a wide temperature range between -13 degrees to 716 degrees Fahrenheit.

With such an impressive temperature range, you can easily use this thermal camera to test the extreme temperatures of heavy-duty factory equipment as well.

Now, this unit also features a 50-degree world field of view and a Lepton IR Imaging Engine that manages to provide a decent resolution of 80 x 60 pixels.

Also, its 8 GB memory card lets us store as many as 75,000 photos without having to empty it for storage space. In case you’re not satisfied with 8 GB, this product is also eligible to support a 32 GB memory card.

What could have been better?

Although this camera manages to give us a decent pixel resolution, it somehow doesn’t feel satisfying to us. The images taken by this thermal camera weren’t as high-quality as we had expected them to be.

2. FLIR E4 Thermal Imaging Camera – Best for Ergonomic Design

FLIR Systems Inc. has consecutively bagged the second position on our list with its E4 Thermal imaging camera. This E4 unit unarguably takes the spotlight with its groundbreaking features and unbelievably ergonomic design.

If you’re searching for a device that gives you a semi-professional thermal imaging experience at a tiny fraction of its original cost, give this unit a try.

Experience

Frankly, this thermal camera is one of the most overlooked FLIR thermal camera products on the market right now. That’s why we were even more eager to test it personally. After testing it in various extreme situations, we can say that its detection accuracy is quite satisfying for a device in this price range.

The FLIR E4 thermal camera offers an impressive temperature range between 14 degrees to 302 degrees Fahrenheit, which makes it ideal for industrial use. Its design is quite ergonomic and doesn’t fatigue our arms while using it.

It also features a standard 80 × 60-pixel resolution that’s found in various high-priced thermal imaging cameras in the market, giving it a higher competitive advantage.

Now, this infrared thermal camera comes at a surprisingly low price, which also had us doubting its durability. It’s because most of the user complaints regarding thermal imaging cameras revolve around their cheap-quality build materials and short product life. 

So, we tried dropping this product from a considerable height to test its build quality and durability. Surprisingly, this product is built with high-end quality materials that allow it to withstand falls up to a height of 6.6 feet.

Overall, having one of these thermal imaging cameras for both personal and commercial use sounds like a win-win situation to us.

What could have been better?

We’re quite disappointed to find out that the camera saves the clicked thermal images only in JPG format. Also, the camera thumbs its nose drastically when it comes to clicking thermal images with radiometric information.

3. FLUKE TIS20 Thermal Camera – Best for Image Resolution

FLUKE Inc. is already one of the leading brands that have been setting the bar higher for thermal imaging cameras with its breakthrough innovation. Its new TIS20 thermal imaging camera has been making waves in the market with its unique IR Fusion technology.

For those who are looking for a thermal sensor that supports a surprisingly astounding pixel resolution, this thermal camera makes a good fit.

Experience

This camera comes equipped with exceptional IR fusion technology that helps in clicking pretty sharp images. Simply put, the IR fusion technology and the digital image are segregated in a union to click high-resolution pictures. 

Now, as this camera gave us pretty high-quality photos, we were able to analyze the issues thoroughly using its unique pixel-for-pixel zooming feature. This gives the camera a thumbs up from our side because most of the thermal imaging cameras we’ve tested before left us with unsatisfactory image quality.

It is also pretty satisfactory to analyze these images on the camera, as its 3.5-inch LCD provides us with a 320 x 240-pixel resolution. Moreover, transferring these images to the PC for off-camera analysis is also quite convenient, thanks to its Wi-Fi support feature.

To be more precise, this camera offers a throbbing 120 x 90-pixel resolution, whereas other cameras in this price range offer an 80 x 60-pixel resolution. 

Apart from that, it also offers an impressive frame rate of 9 HZ to support its high-quality pictures.

Coming to its additional features, this thermal imager includes an LED notification light that starts beeping when the battery is low. Moreover, it appears as a product that offers a long-lasting battery life so that you wouldn’t have concerns about quick battery drainage.

What could have been better?

Unlike its competing products, this unit lacks a flashlight feature that can guide the user through considerably dark areas. Although it doesn’t lessen the efficiency of the TIS20 by the slightest, having a light feature could give it a higher advantage.

4. FLIR C3 Pocket Thermal Camera – Best for Portability

We can not have enough FLIR products when it comes to professional-grade thermal imaging solutions at an affordable cost. And, the FLIR C3 thermal imaging camera is the newest addition to its C-unit range, which had previously impressed us with its C2 thermal camera.

If you are searching for one of the best-selling pocket cameras in the market right now, this is our topmost recommendation for you.

Experience

After using the FLIR C2, we were quite eager to check the features that the C3 brings to the table. After a brief period of testing, it’s safe to say that the C3 is the mini-me version of the C2, with an additional Wi-Fi support facility.

So, if you are a fan of the FLIR C2 but are looking for something that could be more compact than that unit, then C2 is your go-to option.

We don’t recommend this product as the best thermal camera for professional use. Nonetheless, it’s quite decent to detect minor leakages and electrical repairs that need to be made at your residence.

Now, this model offers us the traditional FLIR MSX enhancement option along with a high-resolution sensor, which is useful for clicking sharp images.

Also, its picture-in-picture setting option is a bonus, which came as an upgrade in the C3 unit.

Although the C2 and C3 units have the same camera, the C2 has the upper hand as its pocket-friendly build allows it to be carried and used anywhere. You can store up to 500 radiometric images at the highest resolution of 80 x 60 resolution in this camera.

Not to forget, this thermal camera also comes with a 3-inch touchscreen display that helps you zoom in on the images with precision.

What could have been better

Unfortunately, this camera isn’t very suitable for clicking long-range images, although it clicks neat close-up pictures. Moreover, we wish that this product came along with a separate slot for an SD card.

5. SEEK Thermal Imaging Camera – Best for Long Battery Life

Professionals always need smart and convenient gadgets that come with long-lasting battery life. This brings us to the groundbreaking Seek thermal reveal unit, one of the best professional heat sensor cameras you’ll find in the market.

Let’s dive deep into its core features, and then you can decide whether this thermal camera is worth your consideration or not.

Experience

As a professional, the first thing that we expect from a gadget is higher user comfort and convenience. Luckily, the Seek thermal reveal unit is designed very ergonomically so that the users don’t fatigue their hands while using it for a long time.

As a bonus, the thermal camera takes user convenience to a higher level with its angled head. Due to this advanced feature, it becomes easier for us to target the device accurately.

Nevertheless, the feature that we’ve found the most convenient about this unit is its powerful battery that lasts up to 10 hours. This way, you don’t have to stress over charging it frequently between work. 

But wait, there’s more; this infrared imaging device also features an intense LED light that comes in pretty handy while working in dark areas. With so many features, this unit effortlessly tops as one of the smartest gadgets that you can add to your professional toolbox.

In case you’re not yet convinced, this camera makes detection even easier for you with its multiple user modes. It can be best experienced when you’re working in an area that’s emitting similar metrics of heat. In these situations, you can use its auto-detection and auto-emission user modes to find the actual hidden issue accurately.

What could have been better?

Frankly, it would have been even better if the thermal camera was available at a lower price. Although we understand that it offers a surprisingly wide array of features, lowering its cost a little could give it a higher competitive advantage.

Also, we’re a bit upset that this product does not support video recordings.

6. FLIR TG56 Spot Thermal Camera

In a universe of premium-grade professional thermal imaging cameras, FLIR Systems Inc. surely seems to have the throne. The FLIR TG56 spot thermal imaging camera is best known as one of the finest infrared thermometers one can find at a reasonable price.

We’ve recently tested this accessible device, and we’re very excited to share our experience with you.

Experience

Whether it’s a minor ventilation error at your home or a major electrical wiring malfunction at your workplace, the best gadget to help you detect the issue is a reliable thermal imaging camera.

When we speak of reliability in a conversation about thermal cameras, it is somewhat unfair not to mention the FLIR TG56 unit. It’s a sturdy and durable gadget that also makes an efficient infrared thermometer.

Moreover, it’s impressive how this thermal camera gives us complete user control while working.

For starters, this product comes equipped with laser pointers and work lights. Now, we agree that laser pointers are very common among the thermal cameras that are being manufactured nowadays.

Nonetheless, the work lights are handy for full-time professionals as they allow this camera to be operated in the dark with ease.  

As a bonus, this FLIR unit brings something new to the table, i.e., a user-defined alarm feature. The high/low alarms, along with their adjustable emissivity, appeared to be quite useful in situations where we had to keep fixed out-sets. So, this gives the TG56 a thumbs up from our side.

Being a professional tool, the TG56 is built in an industrial design that is further protected by a toughened exterior shell. You don’t even have to stress about getting this product broken by falls or accidents, as it has a drop resistance of about 10 feet. It’s also quite ergonomic and can be operated by one hand easily. 

What could have been better?

Although it makes a pretty efficient thermal heat sensor, it comes with a pretty tiny display screen. 

7. SEEK Thermal XR Ranger

After its astounding Reveal thermal imaging unit, global manufacturing brand Seek returns to our list with another new addition, the Thermal XR ranger. If you have a smartphone that you wish could be morphed into a multifunctional gadget, this thermal camera is something you’d want to consider.

Experience

To be very clear, the Thermal XR Ranger isn’t actually a traditional thermal imaging camera. It, however, is an efficient add-on device that can be fitted to any Android or IOS smartphone to transform it into a potential thermal imaging camera.

This product has set the bar very high for portability and convenience. Its unbelievably low price makes it even more of a must-have gadget.

Fun fact – the thermal sensor technology that has been used to create the XR ranger has been previously popular among military professionals and field experts. This way, the product allows us to click long-range images with precision.

Not to forget, this unit also appears to be quite efficient at detecting heat up to a maximum distance of 1800 feet.

What we’ve loved the most about its cutting-edge 206 x 156-pixel resolution image quality, which is thrice as sharp as any regular thermal camera. In addition, the device also offers threshold settings that appear to be quite efficient at emitting temperature levels that are either higher or lower than the ideal point. 

Coming to its user convenience, this device has the highest battery life among all of our recommendations by far, and it doesn’t let us go through any frequent charging issues. As this equipment is fitted on a mobile phone, it feeds off the battery life of the host gadget as a power source.

So, if you’re a big fan of advanced technology and high convenience, this is a great option.

What could have been better?

It’s a tad upsetting that despite its mobility and efficiency, the product is often said to be giving misleading radiometric information.

8. FLIR ONE PRO Thermal Sensor

As we’re slowly shifting from professional thermal imaging solutions to mobile add-on heat sensors, we figured that it’s a good time to introduce the FLIR One Pro thermal sensor.

If you are one of those who barely know how to operate a thermal imaging camera, this device can let you do the same job on your smartphone with ease. 

Experience

While using the FLIR One Pro unit, we were quite amazed by how the USB Type-C support feature of this device allows the camera to be adjusted in almost any direction. This way, it becomes quite more comfortable to get the perfect shot from any desired angle. 

Furthermore, this product supports both IOS and Android devices, and it can be installed pretty easily. We tried to fix it as per the online instructions, and the manual was surprisingly easy to comprehend and follow.

So if you’re a beginner with zero knowledge about thermal cameras, buying this device will help you a lot. 

Coming to its core features, it offers us a maximum thermal sensitivity of 150mk, which is pretty good for its price. Also, this unit provides an astounding 1440 x 1080 pixel resolution and a 160 x 120 thermal resolution.

If you’re confused by the massive numbers, we’ll make it simple for you; this unit has the recipe for a perfect high-quality thermal image. 

What could have been better?

Although this thermal camera is perfect for Android, it’s unfortunate that the device often causes performance issues when it’s installed on an IOS phone.

9. PERFECT-PRIME IR0002

Perfect-Prime Co. has always been a reliable brand when it comes to versatile technologies for professional use. The IR0002 thermal imaging camera stands out as a groundbreaking innovation when it comes to detecting the underlying issues that are not visible to our naked eye.

For those who don’t want to spend a fortune on having a high-end heat sensor camera, give this unit a try.

Experience

While using this camera, we were quite convinced by its design as the firm non-slip grip makes it safer to hold. It’s ultralight and built ergonomically, which makes it comfortable to use without facing any chronic wrist pain or arm aches.

Also, we can’t get over its sleek orange design pattern, which makes it an ideal eye-catching product.

Now coming to its user-friendliness, this product has a very easy-to-understand user interface. It comes with four switches for navigating your way through the camera options and settings.

Also, its four extra switches come in handy while adjusting or setting the thermal images at our convenience.

Furthermore, this camera also offers a wide array of cutting-edge core features that can be very helpful in making your professional tasks simpler. For starters, this camera provides a satisfying image resolution of 3,600 pixels or 0.3 megapixels.

This way, you can zoom the picture in and out without having to compromise its quality. It’s quite useful when it comes to examining the core problem with ease. 

Also, storing a large volume of thermal images on this device is quite possible, thanks to its 4 GB SD card storage feature. Not to forget, this camera can detect up to a maximum temperature range of 300 degrees Celsius.

So overall, we found this unit to be quite suitable as a low-priced thermal sensor for both professional and personal use.

What could have been better?

This product comes with a 2.4-inch display screen, whereas most of the products in this price range offer similar features and a larger 3-inch display screen.

10. FLUKE FLK-TI400 60Hz Thermal Imager

The ultimate addition to our list is the FLK-TI400 unit, one of the best-selling heat sensor tools by the global brand Fluke. This product promises high-definition image quality and extreme temperature measurement, which makes it one of our top recommendations. 

Experience

To begin with, it is unarguably one of the most convenient thermal imaging cameras that we’ve tested in a while. This product is very reliable and lets you use it in the most extreme situations, as it can measure up to 1200 degrees Celsius.

So, if you’re a factory maintenance staff who’s looking for a handy tool for risk-aversion duties, the FLK-TI400 will not disappoint you. 

This thermal camera supports an advanced Wi-Fi support feature that allows it to share images with the PC with ease. Also, we’ve noticed that it can also transfer pictures to IOS smartphone devices with ease.

However, the smartphone must have the SmartView mobile application installed. Nevertheless, it makes this device a lot more convenient for busy professionals.

After testing it, we found its infrared lenses to be very useful at detecting faults that are usually impossible to identify. Furthermore, its interface is quite user-friendly and easy to understand.

This way, despite being a professional tool, we think this product will also be a good option for beginners to use. 

What could have been better?

Unfortunately, its long-lasting durability is somehow compromised when it’s used continuously around extreme temperatures consistently. 

Best Thermal Imaging Camera Comparison Table

Buying Guide For The Best Thermal Imaging Camera

Thermal cameras are a great tool for a home inspection, and they can be used to detect temperature differences and find hidden leaks or insulation problems.

When it comes to choosing the best thermal camera, there are a few key considerations that you should keep in mind in order to make the right decision. Let’s discuss several features to look for when choosing one.

Imaging Modes

As we already know, the primary use of a thermal imaging camera is to generate a thermal picture of a suspicious area or object. However, it is imperative to evaluate whether the camera you’ve had your eyes on offers versatile image modes. 

Although the old-fashioned units are good enough to click thermal images, recent times have witnessed an increasing demand for advanced ones that support fusion image modes.

The fusion modes enable us to click both the normal and the thermal image, which comes with imprinted radiometric information.

LCD Screen Size

As it’s a camera at the end of the day, it’s significant for the unit to at least have a standard 3-inch LCD screen. Although there are various thermal cameras that offer around 5-7 inches of LCD screen, they can be a tad expensive.

Nevertheless, you shouldn’t settle for anything less than a 3-inch LCD screen, as it may otherwise become tough for you to analyze the image on camera.

Refresh rate

Not to forget, it’s essential to check the refresh rate of the unit when it comes to the thermal camera’s display. The minimum refresh rate that you can settle for is 9 Hz; anything less than that will cause you trouble while adjusting the focus of the camera.

You can have the best results if you can manage to find a model with a 60 Hz refresh rate.

Screen Resolution

When it comes to choosing a thermal camera, the first thing to consider is the screen resolution. The higher the resolution of the screen, the more detailed the thermal images will be.

High-resolution thermal cameras will allow you to easily spot temperature differences and make it easy to identify and diagnose problems.

Lower-resolution thermal cameras will still provide useful information, but the images will be less detailed and it may be harder to spot temperature differences and diagnose problems.

Spectral Range

The next consideration is the spectral range of the thermal camera. The spectral range defines the range of temperatures that the thermal camera can detect.

A wider range means that the camera will be able to detect a larger range of temperatures, making it more useful for identifying temperature differences. Be sure to select a thermal camera with a wide enough spectral range for your needs.

WiFi and Bluetooth Connectivity

Another important consideration is whether or not the thermal camera has WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity. This will make it easier to connect the camera to a computer or other device, allowing you to view the thermal images on a larger screen. This can also make it easier to transfer the images to other devices or to the cloud.

Thermal Sensitivity

The thermal sensitivity of the thermal camera should also be taken into consideration. The thermal sensitivity of the camera is a measure of how accurately it can detect temperature differences.

A higher thermal sensitivity means that the camera will be able to detect smaller temperature differences, making it more useful for detecting hidden problems.

Aesthetic Value

The aesthetic value of a thermal camera should be considered when selecting the best option. Thermal cameras come in a variety of designs, sizes, and colors, and the choice should depend on the intended use.

For instance, a thermal camera used for home inspections must have a sleek and professional design, as it will be used by the inspector in front of clients. On the other hand, a thermal camera used for industrial purposes may require a more robust design, as it will be dealing with harsher conditions. 

Battery Life

You should also take into consideration the battery life of the thermal camera. If the camera will be used to inspect large areas, then choose a model with longer battery life, as it will make it easier to complete the job without having to recharge the camera.

Additionally, make sure to look for rechargeable battery options, as they can be used multiple times without having to purchase a new battery every time. 

Compatibility

You should also consider the compatibility of the thermal camera. Most thermal cameras come with a USB connector that can be used to connect the camera to a computer for further analysis of the thermal images. Therefore, choose a model that is compatible with the software and hardware that will be used for the job. 

Price

The price of the thermal camera is one factor that you need to consider when selecting the best option. Generally, the higher the resolution of the image, the higher the price of the camera so take into consideration the level of detail needed for the job, as well as the budget, to ensure that the most suitable thermal camera is chosen. 

Industrial Use

If the thermal camera will be used for industrial purposes, then you should consider additional features, such as weatherproofing and durability.

Industrial thermal cameras are often used in harsh conditions and must be able to withstand high temperatures and rough environments so look for cameras made with durable materials that can handle the conditions. 

Portability

Portability is also another factor you need to consider when selecting a thermal camera. If the camera will be used to inspect large areas, choose a model that is lightweight and portable, as this will make it easier to move around and complete the job quickly. 

Durability

The durability of the thermal camera should also be taken into account when selecting the best option. Thermal cameras are often exposed to harsh conditions and must be able to withstand impacts and falls.

Therefore, consider selecting a model that is made with durable materials, such as aluminum or stainless steel, to ensure that it can withstand the elements. 

What is the difference between infrared cameras and thermal cameras?

The main difference between infrared cameras and thermal cameras is that infrared cameras capture light waves in the electromagnetic spectrum while thermal cameras capture radiation in the infrared spectrum.

Whereas infrared cameras can detect hot and cold spots, thermal cameras can actually measure the temperature of an object.

Additionally, infrared cameras cannot sense objects in complete darkness, whereas thermal cameras can.

How precise are thermal cameras?

Thermal imaging devices, such as thermal imaging cameras, work by detecting infrared radiation emitted by objects. The resolution of the thermal imaging camera depends on the type of camera and the quality of the lenses used in the device.

Thermal cameras enable users to detect even minuscule changes in temperature, making them highly precise.

Can thermal imaging detect objects behind walls or concrete?

Yes, thermal cameras can detect objects behind walls or concrete. The camera measures the surface temperature of the object, so it can detect heat signatures even through walls or other materials.

Will thermal cameras work in direct sunlight?

Yes, thermal cameras can work in direct sunlight. However, it is important to note that the camera will be affected by the environment it is in and the object it is capturing.

For example, if the object is reflecting sunlight, the thermal camera will be less effective in detecting the temperature of the object.

Is it better to rent or purchase a thermal imaging camera?
Whether it is better to rent or purchase a thermal imaging camera depends on your needs. If you need a thermal imaging camera for a short-term project, it may be more cost-effective to rent a thermal imaging camera.

However, if you need a thermal imaging camera for long-term use, it may be better to purchase a thermal camera

Which brands offer the highest quality thermal imaging cameras?

Conclusion

After extensively examining and testing various thermal imaging cameras, we can finally provide you with the top three expert recommendations based on their unique features and performance in different situations.

From the above 10 best thermal imaging cameras, here are the top three expert recommendations:

Offering a wide temperature range and a 50-degree field of view, the FLIR TG165 Spot Thermal Camera is an ideal option for those who need thermal imaging capabilities for both personal and industrial use. However, the image quality could have been better.

With its ergonomic design, affordable price range, and impressive temperature range, the FLIR E4 Thermal Imaging Camera is a good option for semi-professional thermal imaging experiences. Its durability and fall resistance make it stand out from other cameras in its price range.

The FLUKE TIS20 Thermal Camera is the right choice for users looking for a high-resolution thermal sensor. Equipped with IR Fusion technology and a 10,800-pixel resolution, it delivers sharp images and has a wide temperature range. The only downside is the absence of a light feature.

On this note, we hope that our top 10 thermal imaging cameras list has helped you choose the device that suits your needs precisely. Stay tuned for more of such insightful content, and we’ll see you soon.

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