Best thermal imaging camera under 1000

Thermal imaging cameras are incredibly effective devices for a wide range of mechanical and electrical applications. They were initially developed by the Korean military, but the advancement of technology made them available at affordable prices.

Nowadays, you can get a thermal imaging camera with superior features under 1000. This device is handy in detecting common issues like water leaks behind walls, insulations, HVAC leaks, etc. Also, it can be used to check breaker boxes to check for circuit overloads.

i. Flir E4

This is one of the best thermal imaging cameras under $1000 on the market. Even though the 80×60 resolution is low compared to some high-end cameras, it is adequate for numerous applications.

It features FLIR technology that helps to improve clarity to get a more detailed image. Also, it is Wi-Fi enabled, which means you can connect it with your mobile devices. However, you will only be limited to using FLIR tools mobile app. Nonetheless, this is a handy feature because it can allow you to share files from any location.

Specifications

• 80×60 IR Resolution
• 45^o x34^o field of view
• Wi-Fi enabled
• 3-inch LCD display
• -4^oF to 482^oF temperature detection range

 

ii. Seek CompactpPro for mobile devices

This is an advanced thermal imaging camera that is very easy to use. You will only need to plug it in your phone’s charging port to start using it. The best part is that the phone acts as storage for the captured images and videos.

It features a 320×240 thermal sensor which can only be matched with high-end cameras. As a result, it generates detailed thermal images. With the broader temperature sensitivity range of -40 degrees Fahrenheit to 626 degrees Fahrenheit and fast refresh rate, it can outshine its competitors.

The Seek CompactPro is ideal for both amateur and professional use. It is available for both iOS and Android devices.

Main features

• 320×240 thermal sensor
• 32 degrees field of view
• -40^o F to 626^oF
• 15Hz Frame rate
• 9 option color palette

 

iii. Flir C2 with Moisture Pen

A thermal imaging camera does not need to be heavy to be effective. In fact, one of the most alluring features in this model is the slim profile design. It also extremely lightweight, which means you can slide it in your pocket.

If you are looking for a simple device for occasional standard inspections, you should consider this thermal imaging camera. The 80×60 thermal resolution is adequate for a wide variety of home applications like leak detection but not in-depth analysis like more expensive cameras.

Although it is a small camera, it produces very clear images that are displayed on the large LCD screen. Also, the batteries cannot support the camera for long hours but can be easily charged via the USB port.

Main features

• 80×60 IR Resolution
• 41⁰x31^o field of view
• 9Hz refresh rate
• Focus free
• Touchscreen display
• 14^oF to 302^oF Temperature detection range
• Lanyard strap

iv. Perfect Prime IR0001

This is an affordable thermal imaging camera for both amateur and professional use. Even though the thermal resolution is low at 32×32, it is still able to blend visual images with infrared images to produce a more detailed image.

Main features

• 32×32 IR Resolution
• -4^o to 572^oF temperature range
• Fixed focus mode
• 6Hz refresh rate
• Numerous color palette

Conclusion

Professional high-end thermal imaging cameras are costly, depending on the included features where some of them can run over $10000. Nonetheless, there are plenty of affordable cameras that can serve a wide range of applications. Our top choice is the Flir E4 because of its high resolution, wide temperature range, and Wi-Fi connectivity.