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10 Best Cheap Thermal Imaging Camera 2025 in the United States
#1
Winner
HSFTOOLS HF96 Thermal Camera, Super Resolution 240 x 240, Thermal Imaging Camera with Laser Pointer, 96 x 96 IR Resolution, 25 HZ Infrared Camera,-4°F to 1022°F, 50°FOV, 8h Battery Life Thermal Imager
The HSFTOOLS HF96 Thermal Camera is an affordable option that offers notable features for thermal imaging. It boasts a 96x96 IR resolution, which can be enhanced to 240x240 using live super resolution technology, providing clear thermal images. The device has a temperature range from -4°F to 1022°F and a thermal sensitivity of less than 50mk, making it suitable for detecting small temperature differences. Its 25Hz frame rate ensures smooth imaging during inspections, and the 50° field of view allows for wide area coverage. The built-in laser pointer and seven color palettes enhance usability in various inspection scenarios.
Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,449
Resolution
Temperature Range
Most important from
440 reviews
#2
FLIR ONE Gen 3 - Thermal Imaging Camera for iOS Smartphones (iPhone 15 and Newer w/USB-C): Use for Home Inspection, HVAC, Automotive, Machine Industries and More
The FLIR ONE Gen 3 is a compact thermal camera designed to plug directly into newer iPhones with USB-C, making it very convenient for quick home inspections, automotive checks, or HVAC work. It delivers thermal images at 80x60 resolution, which is lower than visible camera resolution but typical for entry-level thermal devices in its price range. Its temperature measurement covers 5 °C to 120 °C, sufficient for common household and industry uses, with an accuracy of ±3°C or ±5%, which is good for general spotting of heat issues but not for precise scientific work.
Rating
9.8
Resolution
Battery Life
Most important from
6304 reviews
#3
FLIR ONE Gen 3 - Thermal Imaging Camera for iOS Smartphones (iPhone 14 and Older w/Lightning Port): Use for Home Inspection, HVAC, Automotive, Machine Industries and More
The FLIR ONE Gen 3 thermal imaging camera is a compact and convenient option for iPhone users looking to add thermal imaging capabilities to their device. It directly connects to iPhones with a Lightning port, making it easy to use on the go. With a thermal resolution of 80x60 and a visual resolution of 1440x1080, it provides decent image clarity for basic tasks like detecting heat loss in homes, identifying electrical issues, or inspecting mechanical equipment.
Top 10 Best Cheap Thermal Imaging Camera 2025 in the United States
#1
Winner
9.9 score
HSFTOOLS HF96 Thermal Camera, Super Resolution 240 x 240, Thermal Imaging Camera with Laser Pointer, 96 x 96 IR Resolution, 25 HZ Infrared Camera,-4°F to 1022°F, 50°FOV, 8h Battery Life Thermal Imager
HSFTOOLS HF96 Thermal Camera, Super Resolution 240 x 240, Thermal Imaging Camera with Laser Pointer, 96 x 96 IR Resolution, 25 HZ Infrared Camera,-4°F to 1022°F, 50°FOV, 8h Battery Life Thermal Imager
Resolution: 96x96 IR, 240x240 enhanced
Temperature Range: -4°F to 1022°F
Thermal Sensitivity (NETD): <50mk
Field of View (FOV): 50°
Battery Life: up to 8 hours
Image Storage and Sharing: stores 30,000 images, USB Cast
Chosen by 1449 this week
FLIR ONE Gen 3 - Thermal Imaging Camera for iOS Smartphones (iPhone 15 and Newer w/USB-C): Use for Home Inspection, HVAC, Automotive, Machine Industries and More
FLIR ONE Gen 3 - Thermal Imaging Camera for iOS Smartphones (iPhone 15 and Newer w/USB-C): Use for Home Inspection, HVAC, Automotive, Machine Industries and More
Resolution: 80x60
Temperature Range: 5°C to 120°C
Battery Life: 1 AA battery
Image Storage and Sharing: via FLIR ONE app
FLIR ONE Gen 3 - Thermal Imaging Camera for iOS Smartphones (iPhone 14 and Older w/Lightning Port): Use for Home Inspection, HVAC, Automotive, Machine Industries and More
FLIR ONE Gen 3 - Thermal Imaging Camera for iOS Smartphones (iPhone 14 and Older w/Lightning Port): Use for Home Inspection, HVAC, Automotive, Machine Industries and More
Resolution: 80x60
Temperature Range: 5°C to 120°C
Display Size and Type: Digital
Image Storage and Sharing: FLIR Ignite Cloud
FLIR TG165-X Thermal Imaging Camera with Bullseye Laser: Commercial Grade Infrared Camera for Building Inspection, HVAC and Electrical
FLIR TG165-X Thermal Imaging Camera with Bullseye Laser: Commercial Grade Infrared Camera for Building Inspection, HVAC and Electrical
Resolution: 48,000 pixels
Temperature Range: -25°C to 300°C
Battery Life: rechargeable lithium-ion
Display Size and Type: LCD
HP96 Thermal Imaging Camera, Super Resolution 240 x 240 Thermal Camera with Visual Camera, 96 x 96 IR Resolution, 3.5" Touch Screen, 25 Hz, Video and Audio Recording, 50° FOV, -4°F to 662°F
HP96 Thermal Imaging Camera, Super Resolution 240 x 240 Thermal Camera with Visual Camera, 96 x 96 IR Resolution, 3.5" Touch Screen, 25 Hz, Video and Audio Recording, 50° FOV, -4°F to 662°F
Resolution: 96x96
Field of View (FOV): 50-degree
Battery Life: up to 4 hours
Display Size and Type: 3.5-inch touchscreen
Image Storage and Sharing: 30,000 images, 20 hours video
Related Products
Up to 23% off
HSFTOOLS F2W Thermal Camera 256x192 IR Resolution, Thermal Imaging Camera with W-Fi, Super Resolution Image Enhance,-4°F to 1022°F,640x480 3.2" Screen Thermal Imager with 16 GB Storage, Carrying Case
HSFTOOLS F2W Thermal Camera 256x192 IR Resolution, Thermal Imaging Camera with W-Fi, Super Resolution Image Enhance,-4°F to 1022°F,640x480 3.2" Screen Thermal Imager with 16 GB Storage, Carrying Case
Resolution: 640x480
Temperature Range: -4°F to 1022°F
Battery Life: up to 6 hours
Display Size and Type: 3.2-inch
Image Storage and Sharing: 16GB storage, Wi-Fi
FLIR C5 Compact Thermal Imaging Camera with WiFi: High Resolution Infrared Imager for Inspection, Electrical/Mechanical, Building, and HVAC Applications
FLIR C5 Compact Thermal Imaging Camera with WiFi: High Resolution Infrared Imager for Inspection, Electrical/Mechanical, Building, and HVAC Applications
Resolution: 160 x 120
Temperature Range: -20 to 400°C
Image Storage and Sharing: FLIR Ignite cloud
TOPDON TC004 Thermal Imaging Camera, 320 x 240 TISR Resolution, 256 x 192 IR High Resolution, 12-Hour Battery Life Handheld Infrared Camera with PC Analysis and Video Recording Supported, 32GB SD Card
TOPDON TC004 Thermal Imaging Camera, 320 x 240 TISR Resolution, 256 x 192 IR High Resolution, 12-Hour Battery Life Handheld Infrared Camera with PC Analysis and Video Recording Supported, 32GB SD Card
Resolution: 256 x 192
Thermal Sensitivity (NETD): <40mk
Battery Life: 12 hours
Image Storage and Sharing: 16GB SD card
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Buying Guide for the Best Cheap Thermal Imaging Camera
Choosing a thermal imaging camera can be a bit overwhelming, especially if you're looking for a budget-friendly option. Thermal imaging cameras are used to detect heat patterns and temperature differences, which can be useful for a variety of applications such as home inspections, electrical inspections, and even outdoor adventures. To make an informed decision, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they relate to your specific needs. Here are some key specs to consider when picking a thermal imaging camera.ResolutionResolution refers to the number of pixels in the thermal image. Higher resolution means more detail and clearer images. For basic tasks like home inspections or simple diagnostics, a lower resolution (80x60 or 120x90) might be sufficient. For more detailed work, such as professional inspections or research, you might need a higher resolution (320x240 or above). Consider what level of detail you need for your tasks to choose the right resolution.
Temperature RangeThe temperature range indicates the minimum and maximum temperatures the camera can measure. For general use, a range of -20°C to 150°C is usually adequate. If you need to measure extreme temperatures, such as in industrial settings, look for a camera with a wider range, like -40°C to 400°C or more. Think about the typical temperature ranges you will be working with to determine the appropriate range for your needs.
Thermal Sensitivity (NETD)Thermal sensitivity, or Noise Equivalent Temperature Difference (NETD), measures the smallest temperature difference the camera can detect. Lower NETD values indicate higher sensitivity and better image quality. For general use, a NETD of 100mK (0.1°C) is usually sufficient. For more precise work, such as detecting small temperature changes, look for a NETD of 50mK (0.05°C) or lower. Consider how critical detecting small temperature differences is for your application.
Field of View (FOV)Field of View (FOV) describes the area the camera can capture in a single image. A wider FOV (e.g., 50° x 38°) is useful for scanning large areas quickly, while a narrower FOV (e.g., 25° x 19°) provides more detail for smaller areas. If you need to inspect large spaces, a wider FOV is beneficial. For detailed inspections of specific areas, a narrower FOV might be more appropriate. Think about the typical size of the areas you will be inspecting to choose the right FOV.
Battery LifeBattery life indicates how long the camera can operate on a single charge. For occasional use, a shorter battery life (2-4 hours) might be sufficient. For extended use, such as all-day inspections, look for a camera with longer battery life (6-8 hours or more). Consider how long you typically need to use the camera in one session to determine the appropriate battery life.
Display Size and TypeThe display size and type affect how easily you can view the thermal images. Larger displays (3 inches or more) provide a better viewing experience, while smaller displays (2 inches or less) make the camera more compact. Some cameras also offer touchscreen functionality for easier navigation. Think about how important a large, clear display is for your work and whether you prefer touchscreen controls.
Image Storage and SharingImage storage and sharing capabilities determine how you can save and transfer thermal images. Some cameras have internal storage, while others use removable SD cards. Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity can make it easier to share images with other devices. Consider how you plan to store and share your images to choose a camera with the right features.