Differences Between Thermal Imaging and Digital Day/Night

When it comes to hunting or sport shooting, thermal imaging devices are commonly preferred over night vision devices as they detect heat from your target as opposed to enhancing the miniscule light of the night. This makes it easier to spot, track, and hit your target without searching around in the dark for hours.

What is a Thermal Imaging Camera, and what is it used for?

A thermal imaging camera is technically not a camera but rather sensors that detect thermal energy or heat. A thermal imaging camera will detect minute differences in heat and produce a visual representation of that on a screen. Some of the world's most sophisticated thermal imaging devices have enough precision to detect differences of as small as 0.01 degrees.

On the screens of these thermal imaging cameras, various colors are used to represent temperature ranges so the user can determine the type of animal or mammal that has been spotted. Typically humans, animals, and cars generate heat and are warmer than their surroundings and will stand out on a thermal imaging device. Coldblooded animals, on the other hand, will be harder to see as their body temperature adjusts to their surroundings. An important rule of thumb to remember when using black and white thermal imaging devices is "the lighter the color, the hotter the object."

What is Digital Day/Night?

Digital day/night optics is a term used for night vision devices that are also capable of being used during the day. Because they are digital, they aren't sensitive to daylight and can be used any time of the day without harming the device. Specific features allow you to switch between day and night modes, providing you with a clear and crisp image every time.

How Do Thermal Imaging and Digital Day/Night Compare?

The main differences between thermal imaging cameras and digital day/night devices are evident in how they detect and relay imaging information. Thermal imaging senses heat and displays that information on a screen, whereas digital day/night devices detect light and will display an exact daytime camera-like view or an enhanced night vision view.

The benefit of using a digital day/night device means that you can rely on a clean and crisp image every time you go out, but if you're really in it for the hunt and hit, a thermal imaging device will have you tracking your target precisely from start to finish as you'll not only be able to see in any lighting condition, but you'll also be able to see through smoke, fog, or dusty conditions.

Thermal imaging cameras also allow a huntsman to track a target from miles away, as the cameras are able to detect residual heat that may be left on handprints or footprints on the ground, even through leaves and other thin materials.

Find the Best Scopes with ATN Corp

In 2018, ATN proudly introduced their 4th Generation line of products in both their Day/Night Digital systems as well as their thermal product line. This line boasts a much improved image processing capability and lightning fast performance unlike any other.

We are the manufacturer of our products - not a distributor - and as such, we pass the savings on to our customers. All of our digital and thermal imaging products ship complete with everything you need to get you going, and we will never accept anything but 100% satisfaction from our customers.

We invite you to order now from our wide range of thermal imaging, digital optics, and camera products, or speak to a member of our team of dedicated, trained professionals, and determine which product is the best for you.