For some night hunters, a pair of thermal binoculars will work best, whereas for others, a thermal monocular is the ticket.
But to know which is best for you, you have to know how to read the details. This post is pitting a great thermal monocular, the super-affordable DNT HOUND H315R, against one of the best pairs of thermal binoculars in the industry, the Nocpix QUEST S50R.
Here’s how they stack up against each other.
Resolution, Sensitivity, and Speed
The DNT Optics HOUND H315R is powered by a 384x288, 12μm thermal sensor with a NETD rating of 18mK or better and a 50Hz frame rate. Base magnification is 1.5x with digital zoom up to 6x.
The Nocpix QUEST S50R is powered by a 1280x1024, 12μm thermal sensor with a 15mK or better NETD rating and a 60Hz frame rate. Native magnification is 2x with digital zoom to 16x.
No matter how you look at it, the QUEST S50R is faster and produces a sharper, clearer sight picture on the display. It also offers more powerful magnification.
Image Processing
The DNT HOUND leverages DNT Optics’ AI-powered ISR, or Image Super Resolution, to display a clearer sight picture with less noise, regardless of ambient conditions.
The Nocpix QUEST S50R has its own algorithm, which Nocpix calls Reality+ Image Processing, to deliver a clearer, stable sight picture with less noise.
Form Factor and Weight
Thermal monoculars are inherently smaller and lighter in general when compared to similar thermal binoculars. The same holds true here in this head-to-head between the DNT HOUND H315R and the Nocpix QUEST S50R.
Naturally the thermal monocular in question is the lighter and more compact option. The DNT HOUND H315R weighs less than 11 ounces and only tips the scales at 10.16 oz. It’s also easy to carry and use in one hand.
As for the Nocpix QUEST S50R, it’s larger and heavier. It weighs well over a pound, at 24.69 ounces. Of course, some consider the form factor more ergonomic, since it fills both hands and sports the same basic controls as standard optical binoculars.
Durability
In terms of general durability, the Nocpix QUEST S50R and the DNT HOUND are fairly evenly matched. The former boasts polymer construction with a rubber overmold, and both of them sport an IP67 rating against moisture and dust ingress, making them suitable for use in the field in effectively all conditions.
One-Eye vs. Two-Eye Viewing
Here is the most obvious, biggest difference between these two thermal optics. Thermal binoculars, like the QUEST S50R necessarily require the use of both eyes and both hands, whereas thermal monoculars like the DNT HOUND only allow for viewing through one eye at a time.
There are arguments to be made for either. Using a thermal monocular will preserve your night vision in one eye, therefore helping to prevent “night blindness” that sometimes affects night hunters.
At the same time, there are some who find scouting, scanning, spotting and tracking with a thermal monocular to be less comfortable than using binoculars. Some even argue that using only one eye causes headaches.
This is really a matter of personal preference, as there is no objective right answer here. If you prefer the form factor of a monocular and have issues with night blindness, go with the DNT HOUND or a similar optic; if you prefer the classic form factor and ergonomics of binoculars, go with the QUEST S50R or a similar pair of thermal binoculars.
Power
The DNT HOUND thermal monocular is powered by a rechargeable 18650 battery and under optimal conditions will deliver a battery life of about 5.5 hours.
The Nocpix QUEST S50R has a built-in battery pack that supports USB-C charging, also accepts two 18650 batteries and also offers a battery life of approximately 5 hours.
Price
Here is another major difference between these two thermal optics. The DNT HOUND, at approximately $1100, is the more affordable option. The Nocpix QUEST S50R thermal binoculars come in at just under $5000, but it is important to remember that it has a higher sensor resolution and a faster frame rate.
Which Is for You?
That ultimately depends on your needs. If you need a budget option and prefer a lightweight, one-handed option for scanning and scouting, the DNT HOUND is better.
If you prefer the form factor of binoculars, like to view with both eyes, don’t mind the extra price, or want superior speed, image clarity and performance, the QUEST S50R is a better option.
Shop Thermal Binoculars and Monoculars at Dark Night Outdoors
Not sure which of these thermal optics is for you, or are you thinking you might like to explore other options? Check out our full collections of thermal binoculars and thermal monoculars here, then get in touch with us at 309-781-8421 if you want a personalized recommendation based on your unique use case.
