Menu
 

BestReviews is reader-supported and may earn an affiliate commission. Details

Best Thermal Cameras

Bottom line
Pros
Cons
Best of the Best
FLIR TG165-X Thermal Camera
FLIR
TG165-X Thermal Camera
Best Technology

A multifunctional camera with easy data transfer and a larger screen. Great for professional use, according to our DIY expert.

Check Price
Check Price at Amazon
Best Technology
Bottom Line

A multifunctional camera with easy data transfer and a larger screen. Great for professional use, according to our DIY expert.

Pros

A combination of thermal and digital cameras and flashlight. Compact enough to fit in a pocket. Has a 3.5-inch display with a 19,200-pixel resolution. Detects between -4 and 752 degrees. Uses WiFi, Bluetooth, FLIR Ignite cloud, and USB-C.

Cons

The screen is a bit small and doesn't have the best resolution.

FLIR ONE Gen 3 Smartphone Thermal Camera
FLIR
ONE Gen 3 Smartphone Thermal Camera
Easy to Use

An easy-to-use iPhone or iPad attachment with sharing capabilities, which our DIY expert calls a great tool for pros on the go.

Check Price
Check Price at Amazon
Easy to Use
Bottom Line

An easy-to-use iPhone or iPad attachment with sharing capabilities, which our DIY expert calls a great tool for pros on the go.

Pros

Lightweight and small. Plugs right into an iPhone or iPad and turns the device camera into a thermal infrared camera. Includes FLIR One app for support and sharing. Can connect to Apple or Android watches. 150 mK thermal sensitivity.

Cons

Only works with Apple devices with the lightning input.

Klein Tools TI250 Thermal Imager
Klein Tools
TI250 Thermal Imager
Most Compact

Small and powerful, this is a great option for taking on the go while still maintaining consistent readings.

Check Price
Check Price at Amazon
Most Compact
Bottom Line

Small and powerful, this is a great option for taking on the go while still maintaining consistent readings.

Pros

Has 10,000 pixels and emissivity between 0.10 and 0.99. Accepts microSD cards for saving and sharing pictures. Temperature alarms between -4 and 752 degrees. Offers 3 color palettes. Includes rechargeable battery, USB cord, and case.

Cons

Screen is smaller than those on other options.

TopDon TC001 Thermal Camera for Android
TopDon
TC001 Thermal Camera for Android
Best for Android Users

If you need a thermal camera that plugs directly into an Android device, this is a compatible model that offers numerous useful features.

Check Price
Check Price at Amazon
Best for Android Users
Bottom Line

If you need a thermal camera that plugs directly into an Android device, this is a compatible model that offers numerous useful features.

Pros

Made to be compatible with Android. Works well with most devices by the brand. Sports a compact build with excellent heat sensitivity. Crisp display thanks to impressive high resolution. Includes an adapter cable and storage bag.

Cons

Software issues are possible and are frustrating when they occur.

TopDon TC004 Thermal Imaging Camera
TopDon
TC004 Thermal Imaging Camera
Feature-packed

This is a handheld thermal image camera with an outstanding resolution that is consistent and ample accessories.

Check Price
Check Price at Amazon
Feature-packed
Bottom Line

This is a handheld thermal image camera with an outstanding resolution that is consistent and ample accessories.

Pros

Large, vivid screen with adjustable brightness and sharp resolution. Can record videos. Wide temperature range with reliable accuracy. Rechargeable and has a long battery life. Includes a 16G memory card, cable, bag, and power adapter.

Cons

Issues connecting it to a PC noted. Some longevity concerns have been reported.

Why trust BestReviews?
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.About BestReviews 
HOW WE TESTED

We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.

First Reviewed
October 28, 2021
30
Models
considered
28
Hours
researched
Category cover

Buying guide for Best thermal cameras

Written by Kyle Schurman, and fact-checked by Beth Allen
Updated June 2024

Using a standard digital camera or a smartphone is a common way to take photographs. After all, nearly 100 million photos and videos are shared on Instagram alone per day. But there are times when these cameras can’t deliver the information or capture the image you need. For example, when you need to measure temperature differences between objects in an area, only a thermal camera will do.

Thermal cameras can help you see things that aren’t possible to see in the visible light spectrum. They’re great around the house for spotting poorly insulated areas. They work nicely for security purposes. They also help you spot animals that may be on your property at night. But the choices out there can be overwhelming on this oft-misunderstood camera.

Content Image
Thermal imaging is a useful tool when trying to view objects during night time, when visible light is limited or not available.

Thermal cameras 101

A thermal imaging camera measures the thermal heat of a person or an object in the area. It then displays an image on a screen that shows the difference between the thermal energy all objects in the scene are emitting.

Instead of an image sensor that measures visible light, as is found in a standard camera, the thermal camera uses an infrared image sensor. This allows it to measure temperature differences.

Through these temperature differences, the camera’s software is able to create an image on the screen. If a person is in the scene, the camera will create a picture that resembles a silhouette of the individual. You won’t see clear facial features or the color of their clothing, but the person’s outline will be visible and easily identifiable.

For simple thermal cameras, the image is shown on the screen for immediate consideration. For example, if you’re trying to find a leak around a window, the thermal camera simply shows you the approximate location.

For more complex needs, some high-end cameras will save their data, allowing you to run it through software later. This method provides exact measurements, data tracking, and locations of items in the scene.

Expert tip
In general, thermal cameras work better at colder temperatures, which will provide a better definition because of a greater initial thermal differential with warmer objects.
BestReviews Home Improvement and DIY Expert

Thermal camera features

Thermal cameras have a few features that are common on every model. But there are some key differences that will help you find the perfect model for your needs.

Shape

Thermal cameras don’t really look like visible light cameras, such as a DSLR. Many thermal camera bodies are similar to the handle part of a cordless drill with the camera at the top. You hold the handle and pull a trigger to start recording the image. It’s displayed on a screen at the back of the camera.

Some thermal cameras have a design more like a smartphone. This allows the unit to have a larger and sharper display screen.

Another popular option is a thermal camera that attaches to a smartphone or a tablet’s input port. You then can view the thermal image directly on the mobile device’s screen.

Measurements

Some thermal cameras are simple units that only measure the current heat signature of objects. They don’t store data. But more advanced models may take continuous measurements of a scene, storing the data. They then can provide you with the high, low, and average temperatures of different objects in the scene over a set period of time. This feature can help you determine if a certain part in a device is overheating regularly. Advanced thermal cameras may even allow you to set an alert when any part of the scene exceeds a certain temperature.

Screen Resolution

The resolution of a thermal camera’s display screen can play an important role in your enjoyment of the system.

Larger screens with high amounts of resolution allow you to receive a clear picture of the scene. This makes it easier to identify shapes you’re seeing on the screen or to pinpoint the source of a problem.

Lower resolution small screens are found on inexpensive units. These cameras give you a general idea about temperature differences that exist in the scene, but the images are not sharp. If you’re just looking for a draft around a door or window, a low resolution camera may be enough.

Content Image
Expert Tip
Remember that wind, sun and artificial light can alter a reading.
BestReviews Home Improvement and DIY Expert

Thermal camera prices

Prices for thermal cameras vary widely. You can end up spending a lot on a thermal camera, especially if you have specific high-end needs.

Cost factors

The cost differences among thermal cameras often depend on these factors.

  • Resolution: Cameras that can precisely measure the scene and create the most detailed images cost more.

  • Screen quality: Larger and sharper display screens drive up the price of the thermal camera quickly.

  • Temperature range: If you need a thermal camera that can measure high temperatures accurately, you’re going to pay more. You’ll start paying more for temperature measurements of 500º Fahrenheit and higher.

  • Temperature sensitivity: When you need exact temperature measurements in the camera instead of temperature estimates, expect to pay more.

  • Ruggedness: Thermal cameras designed to withstand harsh environments will cost more.

  • Image storage: If you only want to view the thermal image in real time, save some money by picking a model that doesn’t store data. You’ll pay extra to have a storage function.

  • Control features: Expensive cameras give the user far more control over settings than cheaper thermal cameras. For example, you may be able to change the color scheme of the screen, which allows certain items to become clearer.

Expert Tip
Thermal readings can be limited by aluminum foil and other electrically conductive metals.
BestReviews Home Improvement and DIY Expert

Inexpensive

The least expensive thermal cameras will cost roughly $200 to $500.

Mid-range

In this range, models run from $500 to $2,000. Someone seeking a thermal camera for home use can expect to pay less than $750, and often quite a bit less than that.

Expensive

The priciest thermal cameras can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $10,000. Some even run as high as $20,000. Typically, expensive models will have features that only professionals will want or can use.

Tips

Thermal imaging cameras are fun to have around, but they also can provide some important functions. Here are some ideas to help you make the most of your thermal camera purchase.

  • Always set a budget. Before buying the thermal imaging camera, figure out how much you have to spend. These cameras cost between a few hundred dollars and several thousand dollars. Those with basic needs around the home don’t have to spend a fortune, but if you need sharp thermal images for work, a high-end camera may be the way to go.

  • Professionals use thermal cameras most often. People often use these cameras for work, including members of law enforcement, military, firefighters, electricians, and building inspectors. But you can use these cameras at home too for things like finding poorly insulated areas.

  • Find the right temperature range. If you are working around high temperature objects, you’ll need a thermal camera that can measure those temperatures accurately. Low-priced thermal cameras may max out at 400º or 500º F. Professional-level cameras can accurately measure items with temperatures of 2,000º F or more.

  • Think about where you want to use the camera. Thermal cameras have some limitations that you must consider. If you want to measure a scene through glass, a thermal camera is not going to be much help. Glass has its own heat signature, just like any other object. Additionally, thermal cameras do not perform well around water, including in rain or fog.

  • Live streaming is an option. Select a thermal camera with WiFi connectivity if you’d like to live stream the thermal image. This is a great feature for remote monitoring of an area.
Content Image
Thermal cameras can have the same viewing range as a standard digital camera. The longer the distance over which you use these cameras, the less sharpness you’ll have.

FAQ

Q. What does a thermal profile mean?

A. The thermal profile refers to the temperature of the object in the scene versus surrounding objects. Commonly, the warmest object in the scene will appear white, while other objects will appear as other shades of gray or color. All objects are displayed in relation to the thermal temperature of the other objects in the scene.

Q. What can thermal cameras actually see?

A. Thermal cameras can measure the heat emitted from objects in the area. They cannot measure heat inside of a building or even through glass. Those objects have their own heat signatures, so they negate any heat measurements from objects on the other side of them. This capability allows thermal cameras to measure heat loss from gaps in a structure, for example.

Expert tip
Another use for thermal cameras is detecting paranormal activity. Some people literally want to know if there is some warm presence among them.
BestReviews Home Improvement and DIY Expert

Q. Does a thermal camera have uses beyond law enforcement?

A. Law enforcement certainly can use thermal cameras to track subjects running or hiding. Military personnel use thermal cameras for similar reasons. However, anyone can make use of a thermal camera. You may want the thermal camera for security at night at your business or home. A thermal camera can spot animals on your property at night. Thermal cameras also create some images that almost look like artwork, so they’re fun to use.

Q. How does a thermal camera differ from night vision goggles’ technology?

A. Night vision goggles enhance the amount of visible light in the area. This is a different type of technology than thermal cameras use. Thermal cameras measure the amount of heat an object generates, compared to other objects in the scene. Thermal cameras do not require visible light to work.

Our Top Picks