The primary benefit of owning night vision goggles is enhancing your vision in low-light environments.
Night vision is ideal for hunters who take advantage of the cover of night to get into premium shooting positions.
Usually, a hunter would have to wait until the sun is out to track their target, but when you equip night vision goggles, you may see your target hundreds of yards away in the dark of night.
Hunters are not the only ones that can take advantage of night vision goggles.
Night vision goggles are great for stargazing, boating, target shooting at night, or even airsoft.
Note: Click Here to learn about the things you need to consider before buying night vision goggles.
Table of Contents
#1. Pulsar Multispectral Fusion Binoculars Trionyx T3
- Type: Bi-ocular
- Magnification: 3.5x – 14x
- Field of View: 21.8 Degrees
- Water Resistant: Yes
- Body: Glass-Nylon Composite
They packed the Pulsar Multispectral Fusion Binoculars Trionyx T3 full of high-tech features that make you feel like you are in a sci-fi movie.
These goggles come equipped with thermal and night vision imaging for easy target identification.
Thermal imaging allows you to locate your target quickly, while night vision gives you a detailed image.
You can even use both features simultaneously for a night vision view with a thermal overlay.
It also includes an 850nm or 940nm IR Illuminator for better low light imaging.
With a 1,000-yard detection range, you can have up to 10x magnification with thermal imaging and up to 14x with night vision.
The features do not stop there. It also includes 16GB of internal memory for video recording and Wi-Fi for streaming or file sharing.
With a Pulsar TPS7 Li-Ion battery, it provides up to 6 hours of life.
The Pulsar Multispectral Fusion Binoculars Trionyx T3 is hands down the best binoculars you can get for the money.
It is available from Optics Planet. Here’s where to buy it: www.OpticsPlanet.com
#2. ATN NVG7-2/WPTI Night Vision Goggles
- Type: Bi-ocular
- Magnification: 1x
- Field of View: 40 Degrees
- Water Resistant: Yes
- Body: Rugged Metal
ATN’s NVG7-2/WPTI Night Vision Goggles is constructed with rugged metal with hard plastic armoring for extra durability.
It has a 1x magnification with a field of view of 40 degrees for better situational awareness while on the move.
Additional magnification kits are sold separately and are available in 3x, 5x, and 8x magnifications.
With an 18mm generation 2 WPT image intensifier, you will have a crisp image at night.
Even in the darkest environments, a built-in IR light source will provide a clear image.
It also includes a two-year limited warranty.
The goggles comes with all the hardware required to attach it to a helmet or with a head-mount.
It is available from Optics Planet. Here’s where to buy it: www.OpticsPlanet.com
#3. X-Vision Hands Free Night Vision Deluxe Binoculars
- Type: Bi-ocular
- Magnification: 3x – 6x
- Field of View: 13 Degrees
- Water Resistant: Yes
- Body: Hard Plastic
The X-Vision Hands Free Night Vision Deluxe Binoculars are an excellent choice for those who do not want to spend a lot of money but want night vision capabilities.
These goggles come equipped with a 3x – 6x magnification and could see up to 200 yards in complete darkness.
It comes with a built-in rechargeable ion battery that will last for 5 hours in the dark and 8 hours during the day.
The package includes the head mounting kit, a protective case, and the charging cable.
Its budget-friendly pricing and hands-free design make it perfect for those who want better scouting capabilities at night.
The X-Vision Hands Free Night Vision Deluxe Binoculars are perfect for the first-time night vision goggle owner.
It is available from Optics Planet. Here’s where to buy it: www.OpticsPlanet.com
#4. AGM Global Vision Wolf-7 Night Vision Goggles
- Type: Bi-ocular
- Magnification: 1x
- Field of View: 40 Degrees
- Water Resistant: Yes
- Body: Rugged Plastic
The AGM Global Vision Wolf-7 Night Vision Goggles comes equipped with a Gen 2+ image intensifier for a clear image in dark environments.
It has a few extra features that enhance capabilities while preserving battery life.
It has an auto brightness control, manual gain controls, and a built-in wide angle infrared illuminator for better operational awareness.
They built these goggles to last with multi-coated all-glass optics, a rugged waterproof design, and a limited 3-year warranty.
The goggles are also super lightweight and compact for easy storage and effortless wearing.
You have a choice between a green or white phosphor image intensifier, which can suit your tastes.
The Wolf-7 Night Vision Goggles by AGM Global Vision provides a crisp image for any situation.
It is available from Optics Planet. Here’s where to buy it: www.OpticsPlanet.com
#5. Armasight PVS-7 Gen 2+ Night Vision Goggles
- Type: Bi-ocular
- Magnification: 1x
- Field of View: 40 Degrees
- Water Resistant: Yes
- Body: Rugged Plastic
The Armasight PVS-7 Gen 2+ Night Vision Goggles provides a high-definition image comparable to those used by the United States military.
The intensifier tube automatically adjusts to the amount of available light for the best image possible with automatic brightness controls.
It also comes with a built-in infrared illuminator, allowing you to use them in zero light environments.
It comes with the gear to attach to your tactical helmet or the included headgear.
With a three-year warranty and a simple ergonomic design, it is excellent for all levels of hunters.
It is available from Optics Planet. Here’s where to buy it: www.OpticsPlanet.com
#6. X-Vision Night Vision PRO Binocular
- Type: Bi-ocular
- Magnification: 1x – 2x, 3x – 6x
- Field of View: 12 Degrees
- Water Resistant: Yes
- Body: Hard Plastic
The X-Vision Night Vision PRO Binocular has the lowest price point on the list at just over $100.
With the XANB20, you can see up to 150 feet away in the dark and 400 feet during the daytime.
It uses AA batteries instead of a rechargeable battery like the XANB50, but a single charge can last up to 6 hours in night vision mode.
This set does not come with mounting hardware.
However, it comes with a padded neck strap for easy transportation.
The X-Vision Night Vision PRO Binocular is perfect for those who want night vision binoculars without the cost of the average pair, but its features and quality can not compare to the goggles that cost 10 to 20 times more.
It is available from Optics Planet. Here’s where to buy it: www.OpticsPlanet.com
#7. Barska Night Vision NVX300 Infrared Illuminator Digital Binoculars
- Type: Bi-ocular
- Magnification: 7x
- Field of View: Not Specified
- Water Resistant: Yes
- Body: Rugged Plastic
Barska’s Night Vision NVX300 Infrared Illuminator Digital Binoculars is an affordable night vision binocular that has 7x magnification with 2x digital zoom.
A remarkable feature of the NVX300 is that it can record video and take pictures.
However, it will require a separate micro SD card for storage.
The binoculars come with a 1.5W 850nm infrared illuminator to provide a quality image.
The outer casing is rubberized for added durability and grip, making it perfect for surveillance or hunting.
It is important to note that these do not come with mounting hardware and are designed to be used with the included neck strap.
While not the most impressive night vision goggles on the list, Barska’s Night Vision NVX300 Infrared Illuminator Digital Binoculars are an excellent value for first-time buyers.
It is available from Optics Planet. Here’s where to buy it: www.OpticsPlanet.com
#8. ATN PS-15-WPT NightVision Goggles
- Type: Bi-ocular
- Magnification: 1x
- Field of View: 40 Degrees
- Water Resistant: Yes
- Body: Rugged Plastic
The ATN PS-15-WPT NightVision Goggles are equipped with a White Phosphor Technology (WPT), which provides an excellent degree of detail and contrast with a natural black and white image.
The optics have a 1x magnification and a field of view of 40 degrees for better vision while hiking at night or while hunting.
Each set comes equipped with all the hardware required to mount it on your helmet.
The helmet mount hardware has a flip-up design for an unobstructed view when you are not using the goggles.
The dual optic design allows you to have better depth perception while on the move.
It also has an automatic brightness control where it will turn off the goggles if they are exposed to too much light to prevent damage.
The ATN PS-15-WPT NightVision Goggles are a superb choice for those who will use the goggles on the move because of the improved depth perception.
It is available from Optics Planet. Here’s where to buy it: www.OpticsPlanet.com
#9. ATN PS31-3W 1x Dual Night Vision Goggle System
- Type: Bi-ocular
- Magnification: 1x
- Field of View: 50 Degrees
- Water Resistant: Yes
- Body: Fiber Reinforced Polycarbonate
The ATN PS31-3W 1x Dual Night Vision Goggle System is an upgraded version of the PS-15.
The major difference that the PS31-3W brings to the table is an additional 10 degrees to the field of view for a total of 50 degrees.
The enhanced field of view will provide you with better situational awareness while in a low-light environment.
Another upgrade is the independent dual channel lenses, allowing you to switch from a monocular to a bi-ocular view quickly.
A downside for the PS31-3W compared to the PS-15-WPT is that it costs quite a bit more.
If you do not mind the cost, the ATN PS31-3W 1x Dual Night Vision Goggle System is superior to many goggles on this list.
It is available from Optics Planet. Here’s where to buy it: www.OpticsPlanet.com
#10. Armasight Discovery 5x Gen 3 Night Vision Binocular
- Type: Bi-ocular
- Magnification: 5x
- Field of View: 9 Degrees
- Water Resistant: Yes
- Body: Rugged Plastic
Armasight’s Discovery 5x Gen 3 Night Vision Binocular is an excellent night vision goggle if you plan to be stationary.
It has a 5x magnification with a field of view of 9 degrees.
They equipped it with a Generation 3 tube and a long-range infrared illuminator to provide crisp surveillance in the dark.
They equipped it with a bright light automatic cutoff control to prevent damage from excess light.
You can take these on the go for a scouting mission with the included hand and neck strap or be in for the long haul when equipped with a tripod.
It is available from Optics Planet. Here’s where to buy it: www.OpticsPlanet.com
#11. Armasight BNVD Gen 3 Dual-Channel Night Vision Goggles
- Type: Bi-ocular
- Magnification: 1x
- Field of View: 40 Degrees, 51 Degrees
- Water Resistant: Yes
- Body: Composite
The Armasight BNVD Gen 3 Dual-Channel Night Vision Goggles comes with a wide field of view and is available in a 40 degree or 51 degree model.
They built it to last with a rugged composite exterior and an IP67 waterproof resistance level.
It also comes with a three year limited warranty.
The dual lens design offers excellent depth perception, allowing you to track your target easier in the dark.
A single battery can last up to 20 hours, but you can buy an optional external battery that will increase it up to 80 hours.
The image intensifier is available in green phosphor or ghost white phosphor.
The Armasight BNVD Gen 3 Dual-Channel Night Vision Goggles are an excellent choice for those who want a crisp image in low-light environments.
It is available from Optics Planet. Here’s where to buy it: www.OpticsPlanet.com
#12. Luna Optics 6-36x50mm Digital G3 Day & Night Vision Binocular
- Type: Bi-ocular
- Magnification: 6 – 36 x
- Field of View: 10 Degrees
- Water Resistant: Yes
- Body: Thermoplastic
The main selling point of the Luna Optics 6-36x50mm Digital G3 Day & Night Vision Binocular is its budget-friendly costs and unique features.
It has a massive 36x digital zoom allowing you to track your target at a distance.
It comes equipped with a 12.2MP video recorder, and it can be fitted with a 128GB micro SD card (not included).
The binocular has a built-in illuminator that can reach up to 400 meters and comes equipped with a laser rangefinder rated up to 600 meters.
If you are looking to record your nighttime outings, the Luna Optics 6-36x50mm Digital G3 Day & Night Vision Binocular is an excellent choice.
It is available from Optics Planet. Here’s where to buy it: www.OpticsPlanet.com
#13. Armasight Nyx-7 PRO IDi Night Vision Goggle Gen 2+
- Type: Bi-ocular
- Magnification: 1x
- Field of View: 40 Degrees
- Water Resistant: Yes
- Body: Rugged Plastic
The Armasight Nyx-7 PRO IDi Night Vision Goggle Gen 2+ is a 1x night vision goggle that comes with a field of view of 40 degrees.
With an IDi Gen 2+ optic, you are getting a brilliant image in the harshest of conditions.
An excellent feature is that the goggles automatically turn off when flipped up on your helmet.
It also comes with a two year limited warranty.
If you want a solid night vision optic with an IDi Gen 2+ tube, the Armasight Nyx-7 PRO IDi Night Vision Goggle Gen 2+ is an excellent choice.
It is available from Optics Planet. Here’s where to buy it: www.OpticsPlanet.com
#14. Steele Industries DTNVS L3 Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle
- Type: Bi-ocular
- Magnification: 1x
- Field of View: 40 Degrees
- Water Resistant: Yes
- Body: Fiber Reinforced Polycarbonate
The Steele Industries DTNVS L3 Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle comes with a fiber reinforced polycarbonate body and is waterproof, fogproof, and dustproof.
An excellent feature of the DTNVS L3 is the independent pivoting monoculars to give you custom vision options.
Night vision goggles wreak havoc on your natural night sight, and by giving you the option to use one optic, you can preserve your vision.
The optics are high definition and will provide you with a crisp image in the darkest of environments with the included infrared illuminator.
It also comes with automatic gain control.
The Steele Industries DTNVS L3 Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle is a top pick if you have the money.
It is available from Optics Planet. Here’s where to buy it: www.OpticsPlanet.com
#15. Pulsar Challenger GS Night Vision Monocular
- Type: Monocular
- Magnification: 3.5x
- Field of View: 11 Degrees
- Water Resistant: Yes
- Body: Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic
Pulsar makes high-quality optics for any situation.
The Pulsar Challenger GS Night Vision Monocular provides you with an excellent 1st generation optic at an affordable price.
The Challenger GS is the only monocular that made it on this list, and for a good reason.
It outperforms many other optics at a fraction of the price, and it comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
The Challenger GS is lightweight, compact, and durable with a fiberglass reinforced body.
It comes with a built-in infrared illuminator and is extremely easy to use.
Get the Pulsar Challenger GS Night Vision Monocular if you are looking for a simple night vision goggle that will always perform.
It is available from Optics Planet. Here’s where to buy it: www.OpticsPlanet.com
What to Consider When Shopping for Night Vision Goggles
The Cost
The first thing you will notice when shopping for night vision goggles is the hefty price tag that comes with them.
Some night vision goggles cost as much as a brand new Cadillac, but the list below has several budget-friendly options to choose from.
Battery
There are various battery options with night vision goggles ranging from the standard AA to a rechargeable battery.
Based on the model of optics you own and what settings you are using, you will have a battery life from 1 to 10+ hours.
Style of Optic
There are two types of night vision optics you can choose from: monocular and bi-ocular.
A monocular has one view tube, while a bi-ocular has two.
Each has its benefits and disadvantages compared to the other.
Monoculars are more compact and are excellent for night operations because only one eye is being exposed to the optic, which allows the other eye to keep natural night sight.
However, the disadvantage would be that it puts more strain on the eye being used with the optic.
Bi-oculars provide a better field of view and feel natural while using them.
The disadvantage is that they are more expensive, bulkier, and it will take a longer time to regain your natural night sight.
Field of View
When shopping for night vision goggles, you need to consider what you will use them for.
Magnified optics will provide a smaller field of view compared to 1x optics.
If you are looking for something to use on the move, a larger field of view is preferred.
To simply put it, a larger field of view means better situational awareness.
Magnification
The magnification that you will want will be based on your activity.
Using night vision to hike or get to a shooting position in a low-light environment, you would want a 1x.
However, if you are spotting for long distance shots or scouting, a higher magnification would be better suited for the task.
Generation
Night vision technology has had a significant overhaul over the last few years, providing sharper imaging with many options.
There are currently three generations of night vision tubes with a history starting in the 1950s.
Gen 1
Night vision will be an affordable option for those who want the night vision experience without emptying their bank account.
Because of its limitations, Gen 1 goggles are better suited for short distances with better moonlight.
Gen 2
Night vision is equipped with a Micro-Channel Plate, which provides a much better image quality and view distance than a Gen 1 counterpart.
Gen 3
Night vision goggles will be the best civilian option you can get.
They will outperform the other generations in all aspects, including low light conditions.
A major downside is that Gen 3 optics are expensive.
Conclusion
There are many night vision goggles to choose from, and it may be challenging to pick the right one.
It is important to think about what type of activities you will be using it for and your price range because with night vision goggles, prices are incredibly different.
Never get caught in the dark again with a solid night vision goggle.
References / Resources
How Does Night Vision Work? The Science Behind It
Night Vision vs. Thermal Optics
See Also
Best Military Grade Binoculars
Vision Requirements For Each Military Branch
Military Pilot Vision Requirements
He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 2004 and has served over 18 years as a communications maintenance technician with three deployments to the Middle East.
He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in English and Creative Writing from Southern New Hampshire University and a bachelor’s degree in Information System Security with a concentration in Digital Forensics from American Military University.
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