Best Night Vision Goggles Reviews {Truth is Revealed}
If you love the thrill of hunting or camping out at night like me, then you know the importance of a night vision device. But before you buy that night vision equipment you have been dreaming of; you should be aware the options available to you and how to identify the best night vision goggles.
In this night vision goggle review, I will be highlighting some of the things you need to know before buying night vision goggles and also review some of the best night vision goggles. Thus if you want to buy night vision Goggle, then this is an article you will want to read.
Ever since night vision goggles became readily available to general public, there has been an increase in the number of night vision goggles available in the market. Today, there are all kinds of night vision devices ranging from the digital night vision goggle to the night vision monocular. All these night vision devices and goggles come with their own unique set of pros and cons.
Thus, you should be extra keen when buying night vision goggles. In this article, I have compiled a list of night vision goggle reviews that will be beneficial in your search.
A Quick Comparision of 12 Best Night Vision Goggles
Goggles Model | Generation | Best For |
|---|---|---|
 | 4 | Military Grade Goggles ;Designed for law enforcement agents and professionals |
 | 3 | Military Grade Goggles. Also best for Hunting, Boating and for law enforcements agents and professionals |
 | 3 | Military Grade; Also best for hunting, Boating or nighttime outdoor activities. |
 | 2+ | Great Value For Money; Performs Awesome like other high end military grade Goggles; Best For Professional Hunter, Boating, Law Enforcement Agents |
 | 1+ | Best Goggles under 1000 Price range designed binoculars style and perfect for patrolling, search and rescue, hunting, nighttime camping, nighttime hiking, etc |
 | 1 | if you want a night vision goggle to use for long periods |
 | 1 | Best Goggles under 500 price range |
 | 1 | nightly hiking trips |
 | 1 | Actually its an inexpensive monocular for basic everyday use |
 | This is a Toy for Kid | Best For kids |
 | This is a Toy for Kid | Best For Kids |
Things To Consider When Buying Night Vision
Before purchasing a Night Vision Goggle, there are some factors that you should consider. These are;
The generation
As I have already stated previously, night vision goggles categorized into generation one, two, three and four. Without a doubt, the cheapest night vision devices are generation one devices while the priciest are generation 3 devices.
If you are a primary night vision user looking for something basic for night time viewing of nocturnal animals, a first generation device will do.
On the other hand, if you want a device that will be able to offer you long range viewing of prey at night a second or third generation device will do.
Needless to say, a third generation device will be costlier compared to a second generation device.
Gain
Gain defined as the amount of light that you can see through your night vision goggle. Generally speaking, the greater the magnification, the lower the gain.
Therefore, when you want a Goggle for use for deer hunting a night vision goggle with a high gain will be ideal. In this concern, you will need to look out for a device with a low magnification of about 1X.
Night vision monocular vs. goggles
When shopping for night vision devices, it is important to note that night vision devices come in various configurations with the most common being goggles, monoculars, and binoculars.
Monoculars are light and easy to carry and are ideal for observing things for short periods. Goggles, on the other hand, offer hands-free performance and are perfect for exploring forested areas at night. Thus, it all depends on what you want to use a ๏ปฟnight vision device for.
Brand
When buying a night vision goggle, it is important that you check the reputation of the brand you are buying from. There are countless stories online of people who bought Goggles from unknown brands and ended up getting devices that do not function.
Therefore, do your homework on the best night vision goggle brands before purchasing one.
Other factors that you need to consider when buying a night vision goggle is
- The accessories that you get with your purchase, some night vision goggles come with a head gear for mounting and an infrared illuminator, while others only have an IR illuminator only
- The size of the night vision goggle will also influence your purchase as you do not want to buy a bulky night vision goggle that will weigh you down whenever you are going out hunting or exploring the woods.
- Also, it is important to consider the image quality of the device you are purchasing
Some Confusion & Frequently Asked Question
What Are The Uses For Night Vision Goggles?
Humans, unlike their wild animal counterparts, are not able to see in darkness. But what we as humans lack in heightened senses we more than makeup for with our intellect. So it was natural that people eventually found a way to see at night, with the aid of technology, though. And so the night vision goggle was born.
The uses for night vision goggles are many. One of the most common uses of night vision devices is for viewing nocturnal animals. These are animals that can only be seen at night. Night vision goggles are also used by hunters for night hunting and fishing. These devices are also used by law enforcement agents and neighborhood watch committees at night.
How Do Night Vision Goggles Work?
So how do night vision goggles work? Generally speaking, night vision goggles work by amplifying a small amount of light present in low light or dark environments. There is light even in the darkest of places. However, some of this light is in the form of infrared light, which is invisible to the human eye.
Thus, a night vision device will amplify the available infrared light so that you can see your surroundings clearly. Alternatively, a night vision device can function by enhancing the light produced by living things inform of thermal energy or heat. These are the two answers to the question how do nightvision goggles work.
How Much Do Night Vision Goggles Cost?
There is no precise statement to the question, how much are night vision goggles? Instead, night vision goggles vary in price. Some cost as little as $100 while others cost up to $9000, it all depends on how sophisticated a device is.
If you are wondering where to buy night vision goggles, there are several places where you can buy these devices. One, you can buy them online from stores such as Amazon and the likes, second you can buy them from stores that sell optical instruments and hunting equipment.
Night Vision Goggle Generations : A Brief Summary
Night vision goggles categorized into generation one, two, three or four.
Read more about night vision generations comparision
Generation 1 night vision goggles were the first to be made. These devices will give you a decent but not so great night vision capabilities and range. On average, with a gen one-night Vision Goggle you will be able to see images as far as 75 yards, which is better than not having a night vision goggle. Additionally, Gen one devices not designed for use in pitch black conditions.
Generation 2 devices were an upgrade to gen one devices. Generation 2 devices perform better and have a longer range of up to 200 yards. Also, they can function passively well in pitch black conditions without the aid of an infrared illuminator.
Generation 3 night vision goggles are what the US Army and US special forces use, which speaks volumes about this technology. Generation 3 offers longer ranges of up to 300 yards and can perform in dark conditions without the need for an infrared illuminator. At the moment, generation 4 devices are undefined, and the term is used mainly as a marketing ploy.
Best Military Night Vision goggles
If money is not a problem and quality is a top priority for you, then a military grade night vision goggle will be the best option. One of the best military night vision goggles is the ATN PS15-4 GEN 4 Night Vision Goggle.
ATN PS15-4 GEN 4 Night Vision Goggle
Introduction
The ATN Ps15-4 Gen 4 night vision goggle is one of the priciest optical instruments I have ever used. As its name suggests, this premium device is equipped with 4th generation image intensifier tubes. Thus, with this device do not expect anything short of crisp and clear images even in the darkest of environments.
To spice things up, this night vision goggle also comes with an infra-red illuminator that gives you the ability to view images in total darkness. Dual objective lenses and oculars guarantee comfy viewing for long-term. The internal components of the goggle are housed within a rugged and sturdy body that is waterproof up to a depth of 66 feet. In essence, you can dip this goggle in water for up to 60 minutes, without it getting damaged.
Pros
- Can be hand-held or can be mounted for hands-free use
- Has a rugged and waterproof construction
- Fitted with high quality four gen image intensifier for realistic image clarity.
- Comes with a Goggle kit for hands-free use.
- Comes with a carrying bag
Cons
- It is a pricey night vision goggle
- Export of this night vision goggle outside the US is not allowed
Who is it for ?
This ATN night vision goggle is one of the priciest and best military grade night vision goggles. As such, this night vision goggle is designed for law enforcement agents and professionals. Given its hefty price tag, this is an excellent night vision goggle for professional and experienced hunters.
Best Night Vision Goggles For The Money
Finding a night vision goggle that meets your strict performance requirements and standards can be a difficult task. However, there 30-degree three military grade night vision goggles that I believe you can never go wrong with. Below are my top picks for the best night vision goggles for the money category.
The ATN PVS7-3 Night Vision Goggle Review
Introduction
There are several night vision goggles that can compete with the PVS7-3 Night vision goggle. This Goggle is so good that it has been used in active combat by the US Army. I got to try out one of my ex-US Marine buddyโs PVS7-3 sometime back, and I have to say I was blown away by its performance.
The first thing I noted about this Goggle is how compact and lightweight it feels. Upon further inspection, I discovered that it weighed a meager 1.5 pounds. And as expected it was a third generation night vision goggle and is powered by two AA batteries. The intensifier tube is auto-gated, so you do not have to worry about it getting it damaged due to sudden exposure to bright light. The field of view of this military grade night vision goggles is out of this world and so its image clarity and brightness. The Goggle performs so well that it is night time when you put it on.
Pros
- It can be used in a hand-held manner and mounted
- Has a rugged and waterproof construction
- Has a fantastic field of view
- The third generation image intensifier tubes performed brilliantly
- It is lightweight and compact
Cons
- It is a bit pricey device
Who is it for ?
As its name suggests, this ATN model is a PVS 7 night vision goggle. Therefore, it is not recommended for everyone. Instead PVS 7 Night, vision goggles are designed for the high-end market and the military. Thus, this is the right device for your professional hunting needs. The Goggle is used by professions and law enforcement agents.
Sightmark PVS-14 Gen# 3 Select Night Vision Goggles Review
Introduction
Sightmark is one of ATNโs closest competitors. Therefore, it should be no surprise that one of ATN PVS-7 3-gen night visionโs closest competitors is a Sightmark model. Codenamed the PVS-14 Gen#3 select night vision Goggle, this is another military grade Goggle that is worth its price tag.
And although it is smaller than the ATN variant, its performance does not disappoint. Weighing 18 ounces, this Sightmark PVS variant comes with an auto-shut off feature that automatically shut-off the Goggle when it exposed to light. An integrated IR illuminator is also available. And although its field of view is not as great as that of the ATN version, it is still pretty wide, and it is unlikely you will notice any difference. The device is powered by one AA battery and has a low battery indicator that lets you know when the battery is almost dead.
Pros
- Is adaptable with photo and video equipment
- Can be used hand-held, head mounted and can even installed onto a weapon
- Has an excellent eye relief of 25 mm
- Battery life of up to 40 hours
- Is lightweight and compact to use
- Has a waterproof construction
Cons
- It is an expensive night vision goggle
Who is it for ?
Similar to the ATN model, this is a night vision goggle designed for military use and law enforcement agents. Thus, it is a military device that has been made available to the public. In light of this, this Sightmark model recommended for professionals or anyone else who wants a high-end military grade device.
Armasight Nyx-7 Pro ID Gen 2+ Night Vision Goggles Review
Introduction
The cheapest night vision goggle in this category is the NYX-7 Pro ID Gen 2+ night vision goggle from Armasight. This bi-ocular is one that I own and is actually the priciest night vision goggle I own.
Unlike the other two models reviewed above, this Goggle uses Gen 2+ image intensifier tubes. With these Goggles, I can spot targets in total darkness. The integrated IR illuminator adds to the brilliance and brightness of this Goggle.
Armasight offers this Goggle in several variants; there is a 3X, 5X and 7X variant. This optic is impressive considering both the ATN and the Sightmark models offer a 1X magnification. This goggle is built to be waterproof and compact and comes with its own headset for mounting onto helmets.
Pros
- It is a lightweight and rugged night vision goggle
- Features multi-coated optics for clear and crisp images
- Has an auto-brightness feature for controlling brightness
- Is both water and fog proof
- Comes with its own head set for easy mounting
Cons
- It is a relatively pricey night vision goggle
Who is it for ?
This Armasight model is not as pricey as its two other competitors but boasts of the same performance standard. Thus, it is recommended for persons like you and me who are interested in a Goggle that offers great value for money and performs as brilliantly as other high-end military goggles.
Best Night Vision Goggles Under 1000
When you do not want to spend more than 1000 on a night vision goggle, you will have quite a selection of Goggles to choose from. But if it is the quality you are after then you will be in the market for the best night vision goggles under 1000. My top pick in this category are:
Pulsar Edge Gs Super 1+ 1X20 Goggle Review
Introduction
The Pulsar Edge Gs Super 1+1x20 Goggle is what you get when you combine a night vision device with a binocular. This versatile night vision device comes with an IR illuminator and is powered by two AA batteries. All the controls on this device are conveniently located on its upper surface.
At the core of the goggleโs night vision capability is Gen 1+ image intensifier tubes that deliver exceptional performance. These intensifier tubes are complemented by a five-lens system that minimizes distortions. Also, the eyepiece has rubber cups that minimize light emissions and also make the device comfy to use. The construction of this Goggle is characterized by metal and rubber parts, which makes it rugged and durable.
Pros
- Is a lightweight and compact night vision goggle
- The built-in IR illuminator is designed to be energy conserving
- Has a unique binocular design, which makes it easy to use
- Can be mounted onto a helmet for hands-free use
- Offers exceptional field of view
Cons
- Some users have complained of the headgear being too tight
- It takes some time for it to cool off after use
Who is it for ?
Pulsar Edge Gs Super 1+1x20 is a versatile night vision goggle that can be used for a wide array of applications from patrolling, search and rescue, hunting, nighttime camping, nighttime hiking, etc. Thus, if you are looking for a night vision goggle for any one of these applications, then this is the best Goggle for you.
Sightmark Ghost Hunter 1x24 Night Vision Goggle kit Review
Introduction
The number two night vision goggle in this category is the Sightmark Ghost Hunter 1x24 Night Vision Goggle Binocular Kit. This night vision is a member of the Sightmarkโs ghost hunter goggles line.
Similar to the Pulsar Edge, this night device has a binocular design with a 24 mm objective lens and 1x of magnification. Its binocular design makes it easy to use. For low light viewing, this goggle is equipped with an IR illuminator. An auto shut-off feature turns off the IR illuminator when it is exposed to light. The body of this goggle is made from a lightweight and durable polymer and has a ยผ inch socket for a tripod.
Pros
- Is a lightweight and durable night vision goggle
- Has an ergonomic design
- Is compatible with tripods
- Has a head mount for hands-free use
Cons
- For a gen 1-night vision goggle, this Ghost Hunter is relatively pricey
Who is it for ?
The ergonomic design of this binocular and the fact that they come with a headgear-mounted. Thus, it is the perfect binocular for viewing for long periods of time. It is one device I would recommend if you want a night vision goggle to use for long periods.
Best Night Vision Goggles Under 500
In the under 500 categories, there are various night vision devices that you can choose from. But the two best night vision goggles under 500, in my opinion, are the two I have reviewed below.
Firefield Tracker 1x24 Night Vision Goggle Binoculars
Introduction
Introducing the Firefield Tracker 1x24 Night vision goggle binoculars, a night vision device that I have had the pleasure of testing. Weighing 1.4 pounds, this lightweight night vision hunting binocula๏ปฟr๏ปฟ has a rubberized body that does a fantastic job of protecting the binocularโs internal components from the vulgarities of weather.
In regards to ease of use, this binocular has a central focusing knob that allows you to adjust both the image and the eyepiece. Also, the eyepiece is protected by an eyeshade that prevents light from being emitted. All the optics on this binocular is fully multicoated. Additionally, as is with all other night vision devices on this list, this Firefield model has an integrated IR illuminator that cuts through the night.
Pros
- Comes with a headgear for easy hands-free use
- Is a lightweight and compact binocular
- Has an ergonomic design
- The rubberized body is tough, rugged and waterproof
- Has powerful multi-coated optics
Cons
- The head gear that you get with this binocular is not easy to adjust
Who is it for ?
This night vision binocular๏ปฟ is affordable and offers everything you would expect from a first gen night vision device. Thus, it is an ideal purchase for anyone looking for an affordable night vision binocular for using in low light but not in total darkness.
EyeClops Night Vision Infrared Stealth Goggles
Introduction
I love unique and cool things. So when I first saw the Eyeclops night vision infrared stealth goggles I could not resist the temptation to buy it. This night vision device looks like something out of Star Wars.
The design of this google is truly out of this world. In the front, you get three LEDs, with the largest center being red and the other two are clear colored LEDs. The right Goggle has an LCD similar to the display you get on a camcorder.
One of the best things about this night vision goggle is that it has a long range and a stealth mode. While in the long range mode I can spot targets as far away as 50 feet away. In the stealth mode, you can view without getting noticed. This feature is one of the reasons why this device is the preferred night vision goggle for CIA operatives.
While it looks sophisticated, it is amazingly easy to use and weighs only 1.9 pounds. This Goggle is powered by infrared technology.
Pros
- It has a great design
- Is a lightweight and compact
- Can be used in stealth mode and long range mode
- Is an affordable goggle
- With this Goggle, you can view objects as far as 50 yards
Cons
- It is a cyclops thus it is a one-eyed device
Who is it for ?
Many people assert that this device is toy and ideal for kids. While there is no disputing that it is a great device for teens, this night vision goggle is a great device, especially for night time hiking. Thus, it is an ideal tool for persons who engage in nightly hiking trips.
Best Cheap Night Vision Goggles
When you are short on funds or are on a tight budget, there are several budget binoculars that you can buy. There are quite a number of cheap night vision goggles out there. However, finding the best night vision goggles is not easy. Here is my pick of the best night vision goggles.
Armasight Vega Night Vision Gen 1+
Introduction
I bought the Armasight Vega Night Vision Gen 1+ to be a cheap addition to my collection of night vision goggles. Needless to say, the Armasight is not the best Goggle I own, but at its price point, its performance is impressive.
For starters, its design makes it easy to use out in the field. Furthermore, this night vision goggle comes with 1X magnification and does not have a zoom. Thus, do not expect it to zoom in on targets.
Nevertheless, despite its price, it is equipped with an infrared illuminator. All the optics are made from glass and are multicoated, which guarantees clear and crisp images. This is a monocular night vision device that weighs 0.54 KG and has an objective lens of 20.6 mm in diameter.
Pros
- Can be used with either your right or left eye
- The glass optics are all fully-multicoated
- The housing is reinforced with rubber and is waterproof
- Has an infrared illuminator built in
- Comes with easy to use digital controls
- The goggleโs housing is both water and fog proof
Cons
- Uses CR123 battery, which is not common
Who is it for ?
First of all, it is important to note that this is a first gen device that does not have a zoom feature. Thus, it can only be used for close-focus viewing. Additionally, its price tag makes it a great device for everyday use. This Armasight Vega is an ideal device if you are new to night vision devices.
Yukon NVMT 1x24 Goggle Review
Introduction
Another affordable night vision device that is worth a look at is the Yukon NVMT 1X24 head mount kit. With a head mount included, this night vision goggle can be used hands-free and also boasts of a 1x magnification and a 24 mm objective lens.
Since its magnification is fixed, this device has zero distortions, and the image remains clear and crisp. A built-in pulsating infrared illuminator improves the night vision capabilities of this goggle.
Thus, although it is a first gen night vision monocular, it performs well even in dark environments. If the field of view is important to you, then you will be pleased with the 30 degree field of view of this night vision monocular.
Pros
- It is a lightweight monocular
- Has a rugged and weather resistant construction
- The head gear is easy to adjust
- The lens cover has an aperture pin hole in the center
- The monocular is easy to adjust
Cons
- The head gear feels uncomfortable when worn over bare skin
Who is it for ?
Similar to the Armasight Vega, this monocular is a budget night vision device that works well in low lighting. Due to its being a first gen monocular it might not work well in total darkness. Thus, it is ideal for anyone looking for an inexpensive monocular for basic everyday use.
Best Night Vision Goggles For Kids
When your child wants to enjoy the thrill of using night vision goggles, you will have to find one that works and is ideal for them. Countless night vision goggles are designed for kids. Below I have reviewed two of the best night vision goggles for kids.
Spy Net Ultra Night Vision Goggles Review
One of the cheapest night vision goggles out there is the spy net ultra night vision goggles. However, do not let its price fool you as this is a fantastic night vision goggles for kid.
One of the things I love about this night vision device is that it can be used during the day as well as at night. In addition, it also comes with an SD slot for storing photos. It is one of the best night vision goggles for kids due to its varying modes.
To be more specific, this night vision goggle comes with three modes thermal-tech, ghost, daytime, and recon. The Goggle weighs 2.9 pounds and is thus lightweight enough to be used by kids.
Pros
- It is easy to use especially for kids
- Comes with a shoulder strap, which makes it easy for kids to carry
- It can capture up to 2000 photos
- Can record up to 20 minutes of video
Cons
- The head gear of this night vision goggle is not adjustable
Who is it for ?
This is not the kind of night vision device that you would buy for use out in the field. Instead, this is a great device for your kids. In fact, it is advertised and marketed as a night vision device for kids. Thus, it is ideal for children and teens to some extent.
Spy Net Ultra Vision Night Goggles Review
Another night vision goggle that is ideal for kids is the Spy Net Ultra Vision Night Goggles with five high-tech vision modes. This kid-friendly device is capable of recording videos and also taking photos. Moreover, it offers 50 feet viewing in total darkness, which gives kids something to smile about when they put this device on.
But it does not end there; this device is built with a high contrast dual-eye system, which is comfortable on the eyes. Infrared sensitive optics guarantees easy viewing of targets at night as well as during the day. This device can also zoom in on objects.
Pros
- Is a functional night vision device
- Is easy to use for kids
- It is reasonably priced for a device of its caliber
- Can record videos and take photos
- Spy Net Ultra Vision is lightweight and comes with a head strap
Cons
- The camera on this device is of poor quality
Who is it for ?
As with the previously reviewed Spy net device, this night vision device is designed for kids and teens. Thus, it is a great device to buy for your kids or your teens.
Conclusion
There are many night vision devices out there. Thus you will have to be extra careful when looking for one that will suit your needs. It is my hope that the above reviews will be helpful to you in your search for the best night vision goggles.
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Last update on 2024-12-19
Thanks for the reviews. ATN makes awesome stuff. I just wish they made some NVGs in my price range.
Ha Ha.. Thanks for reading the stuffโฆawesomeโฆkeep visiting