The Best Night Vision Goggles You Can Find in 2021 – Ultimate Reviews

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A wide range of night vision goggles are available in the market.

They differ on the basis of their performance, the quality of their lens, the comfort of their headgear, the price tag and in various other aspects.

The key to find the best night vision goggles 2021 is to determine your own requirements and then judge various well-known models based on these requirements.

best night vision goggles 2021

To make the task easier for you, we have compiled a brief guide to finding the right night vision goggles for you. Read on!

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Editor's Picks

Best Night Vision Goggles On The Market: Our 6 Choices

Best Feature

Product Name

Price

The Best Overall

ATN PS15 Night Vision Goggles

The Best Durable Device

ATN PVS 7 Night Vision Goggles

Best Intuitive Device

Armasight PVS-7 Night Vision Goggles

The Best Versatile

ATN PS-15-WPT NV Goggles

Ease of Use

ATN NVG7-2 NV Goggles

Reliability

Armasight PVS-7 NV Goggles

ATN PS15 Night Vision Goggles - The Best Overall
  • Generation: GEN 3
  • Resolution: 64 lp/mm
  • Magnification: 1x
  • Battery Type: CR123A
  • Eye Relief: 25 mm

If you're sick of buying mediocre devices and you simply want the best out there, then look no further. There's no need for you to go over the following products, except for this one. Let's dig into the ATN PS15 Night Vision Goggles review.

First of all, these are GEN 3 night vision goggles, meaning they belong to the top tier of military equipment. There is the GEN 3+ (GEN 4) generation of military goggles for purchasing, but they are too expensive and demanding, so they don't belong on this civilian list.

Aside from the astonishing clarity and field range that GEN 3 devices can provide, this pair of ATN PS15 night vision goggles also gives the user an improved depth perception thanks to the tube design of this model.

In terms of durability, you can rest assured that you'll be covered with this military-grade device. It's waterproof, made from quality materials, and has a matte finish that goes well with these night vision goggles' ergonomic design.

When it comes to image, it'll not lack in the resolution department as well. Based on the exact model that you want to purchase, you'll be able to get a 64 lp/mm one or the 64-72 lp/mm, depending on how much you're ready to invest.

When you take everything into account, one thing is certain - the main goal of NV devices is to give you absolute clarity and vision in harsh conditions, and that's exactly what you'll get with this one. The ATN's powerful IR illuminator will make sure not to leave you hanging in the darkness.

Pros
  • Ergonomic design
  • Hands-free use
  • Clarity in vision
  • Depth perception
  • ATN’s reliability
Cons
  • /

ATN PVS 7 Night Vision Goggles - The Best Durable Device
  • Generation: GEN 3
  • Resolution: 64 lp/mm
  • Magnification: 1x
  • Battery Type: AA
  • Eye Relief: 22 mm

If you're interested in military-grade devices that can withstand an abundance of exposure and pressure, this is the one for you. Let's take a look at the ATN PVS 7 Night Vision Goggles.

Firstly, let's talk about the design itself. It is a hand-held device that can be mounted, meaning you can use it both ways and still achieve the same type of stability. Upon reviewing it at first, it did seem a bit robust and spacious, but it's truly lightweight for a device of this size.

Furthermore, these goggles are both weather-resistant and waterproof, thus expanding on the military-grade quality premise. If you need a product that you can carry around without worrying about damaging it, this is the one.

It does not lack either in terms of specifications. It has a 40-degree angle field of view, 64 lp/mm resolution, and a 25 mm eye relief. If these numbers don't mean anything to you, the best way to describe it is that it's in the top tier of night vision products.

Similar to the previous one, the ATN PS15 Night Vision Goggles, this pair of goggles also have GEN 3 tubes that improve the overall clarity and image stability. ATN's illuminator is famous for being one of the technologically-advanced hardware that gives out nearly 100%-clear images in the dark.

Overall, it is a fantastic device. However, the battery life is not astounding, but it will run a decent amount of time before eventually giving out. Aside from this, you'll be well-equipped for a night hunt!

Pros
  • Durability, military-grade device
  • Resistance
  • Top-tier specifications
  • Runner-up
Cons
  • Battery life

Armasight PVS-7 Night Vision Goggles - Best Intuitive Device
  • Generation: GEN 3
  • Resolution: 64 -72 lp/mm
  • Magnification: 1x
  • Battery Type: AA
  • Eye Relief: N/A

Since the military's primary goal is defense and order, you can always count on their weapons and devices to be quality-made and long-lasting. When you combine that type of durability with the GEN 3 night vision and impactful intuitiveness, you get the Armasight PVS-7 Night Vision Goggles.

What is it about these Armasight PVS-7 goggles that make you want to buy them? Well, firstly, they are GEN 3 night vision goggles, meaning that they have improved range over the previous models, one of which we'll talk about later. Moreover, the overall lifespan is improved thanks to the lower NV requirements that GEN 3 offers.

As we said, this is a military device, so there is a certain standard to uphold. It is a weather-resistant and waterproof device with a lightweight design. It's not that bulky, and it has a single tube with dual optics that make observing a straightforward process.

According to the overall design, one can conclude that these goggles were made for hand-held use, but they are mountable if you're in a situation where you can't afford not to have both hands.

It does not lack much when it comes to specifications either. As is the case with all military-grade goggles, the features are quite standard - you'll get a 64 - 72 lp/mm, a 40-degree field of view, and a 1x magnification.

However, what this model offers is an abundance of added accessories and features, such as the extra batteries, daylight filter, shoulder strap, and lens paper. Also, you'll receive a limited 2-year warranty, which is an enormous bonus when it comes to devices as pricey as these ones.

The cons are obvious - all GEN 3 goggles and binoculars are expensive, which is probably a deal-breaker for most of you. Still, if there are some looking to invest, you won't make a mistake by choosing this one.

Pros
  • Crafty design
  • Dual-use (hand-held and mountable) goggles
  • Military-grade
  • Added accessories
Cons
  • Expensive

ATN PS-15-WPT NV Goggles - The Best Versatile
  • Generation: WPT
  • Resolution: 64 -72 lp/mm
  • Magnification: 1x
  • Battery Type: CR123A
  • Eye Relief: 25 mm

Even if you're not that familiar with optics equipment, you have surely noticed a pattern by now. In essence, most goggles are relatively similar except for some details. However, every once in a while appears a product such as the ATN PS-15-WPT NV Goggles that mix things up.

Most night vision devices function by utilizing green phosphor technology to deliver clear images during the night. On the other hand, this ATN PS-15-WPT goggles that we're presenting to you is one of the first that utilizes WPT (White Phosphor Technology).

Reportedly, it has a much better field of vision than some GPT night vision devices, thanks to the natural contrast between white and black. Even though green phosphor has astonishing contrasting features, especially when you consider it's used in medicine, WPT offers a much more detailed depth perception.

In terms of design, it's a standard dual-tube/dual-lens pair of goggles with an ergonomic design. You can utilize it as a hand-held device, but it is mountable, which comes in handy when you're on the hunt. Moreover, you can connect a camera or a camcorder and transform it into a modern scope that can make a video of your latest hunting session.

It is on par with the latest generation models in terms of specifications. The system and lens resolution rest at the standard average of 68 lp/mm, and the eye relief is at 25 mm. Also, it's as durable as they get - lightweight, compact, and yet waterproof and fog-resistant.

What several users have noticed is that these ATN PS-15-WPT goggles are not equipped to be matched with all helmets. Wilcox is one of the manufacturers that does not have the mounting hardware for these goggles. Other than that, it's a fantastic pair of goggles if you're ready to invest in them.

Pros
  • White Phosphor Technology
  • Depth perception
  • Camera-adaptable
  • Top tier
Cons
  • Not compatible with all helmets
  • Pricy

ATN NVG7-2 NV Goggles - Ease of Use
  • Generation: GEN 2
  • Resolution: 32-39 lp/mm
  • Magnification: 1x
  • Battery Type: CR123A, AA
  • Eye Relief: 25 mm

Next up for review is another excellent device that comes from the GEN 2 line of models. They do fall short in comparison with the previous ones but offer magnificent characteristics nonetheless. It's the ATN NVG7-2 NV Goggles review.

Even though they're not as powerful as GEN 3, GEN 2 models offer significant improvement over the first generation of night vision devices on the market. They can give you up to 200 yards of vision, an excellent battery life, and, most importantly, convenience.

These ATN NVG7-2 NV goggles are lightweight, have a simple and efficient design, and you don't need any pre-knowledge of night vision equipment to start using them. Furthermore, they offer a cross-mix between a binocular and monocular setup with a pseudo design that lets you observe without the difficulties of watching through a single tube.

The design is ergonomic overall, and you won't have to trouble yourself with thinking where and how to hold it - it's envisioned as a mountable device for no-hold use. After all, they only weigh half a kilogram, which is expected from a military-grade device.

However, specifications are a bit disappointing when you compared them to the previous goggles that we've reviewed - the resolution is set to 32-39 lp/mm, and it's a GEN 2 device. Yet, the pros lie in the overall price and convenience of use.

All in all, if you're not that big on getting the absolute best, this is a neat budget pick in the "best" category. Your purchase will be worth it, and you'll get the best out of it.

Pros
  • Easy to use
  • An ergonomic design
  • The best balance between quality and price
  • Lightweight
Cons
  • Spec sheet

Armasight PVS-7 NV Goggles - Reliability
  • Generation: GEN 2
  • Resolution: N/A
  • Magnification: 1x
  • Battery Type: AA
  • Eye Relief: 25 mm

Even though we've covered a model from the same line previously, this one differs in the generation of night vision used in its production, GEN 2. The GEN 3 model is a bit advanced and supposedly better than this one, but it still deserves to be on the best list. Here's the Armasight PVS-7 NV Goggles review.

Overall, the biggest downside of this Armasight PVS-7 in comparison to the newer one is, the better generation of night vision software (GEN 3>GEN 2). Essentially, the previous one has a larger field of vision, better image resolution, and more clear depth perception. On the other hand, price is a huge factor to be considered before rushing off to buy the GEN 3 model.

When it comes to this one, in particular, it's important to mention the ABC or the Automatic Brightness Control, an option that allows the device to adjust the change in brightness so as not to interfere with the overall quality of the image. In other words, when the brightness changes, the device will adapt and not give you any random flashes of light.

Also, the software utilizes white phosphor as one of the primary materials in assuring clear images. Some have claimed that the resulting image has a better resolution than the ones produced by GPD.

One of the key characteristics that might lead you to buy these Armasight PVS-7 goggles is the simplicity of use. They are quite ergonomic, have a lightweight design, and can be mounted even though they are intended for hand-held use.

Overall, it's a fantastic piece of hunting equipment that would work nicely for every hunter out there. Of course, if you're planning a larger investment, you should go for the GEN 3 model. Otherwise, if you're looking to save money, this one is perfect for you.

Pros
  • Automatic Brightness Control (ABC)
  • Ergonomic
  • ATN’s design
Cons
  • The GEN 3 model’s prowess

Cheap Night Vision Goggles: Best 5 Choices

JStoon NV Goggles - The Best Cheap Goggles
  • Generation: GEN 1
  • Resolution: 960p
  • Magnification: 1x
  • Battery Type: 6xAA
  • Eye Relief: N/A

If you're looking for quality night vision goggles and you're still not ready to cash out the big bucks, don't worry. There are options for each buyer, especially when you factor out the military-grade equipment. Therefore, here's the solution for you - the JStoon NV Goggles.

You can see the difference right away from the previous devices that we've covered. The design and the overall feel that this device dishes out is absolutely different. Since most military-grade goggles don't include camcording hardware, there's no need to integrate a huge viewing screen, which is the salient feature of this Stoon NV Goggles device.

The 2.31-inch screen offers an abundance of viewing space to relieve your latest hunting session. The images and video recordings are HD in a 720p resolution, with an overall 1280x960 resolution screen.

However, this doesn't mean that the manufacturers let you down on the main features of night vision goggles, which is the optics themselves. The digital infrared system can offer you a vision of 300 m of distance with 4x digital zoom. Any way you put it, this will be the perfect addition to your hunting gear.

Since this is both a day and night vision binoculars/goggles, you'll be able to preserve battery life when you're not using the IR illuminator. Overall, tests have shown that you can use these Stoon NV goggles for up to 17 hours in daylight mode with six AA batteries. If not, you'll get around six hours of usage time.

Pros
  • High-resolution images and recordings
  • Unique design
  • 300 m of field vision
  • 4x digital zoom
Cons
  • /

GTHUNDER Night Vision Goggles - Best for Beginners
  • Generation: GEN 1
  • Resolution: 960p
  • Magnification: 1x
  • Battery Type: 6xAA
  • Eye Relief: N/A

If you're a novice hunter and you're not entirely sure where to look and what to search for, here's a budget pick that's extremely easy to use. Let's look at the GTHUNDER Night Vision Goggles.

If you base your primary opinion upon the visual design, you won't make a huge mistake. The device seems comfortable, ergonomic, and has no added hardware or gadgets that would usually trouble a beginner. Moreover, thanks to the materials used in the manufacturing process, these GTHUNDER goggles can endure a lot of damage from the environment and stay intact.

Similar to the previous product, it has a large TFT screen that lets you browse through your recent videos and images that you've captured with the camcorder. Since this is a budget pick, the resolution is not as great as you would expect from some premium device, but it does hold up to average expectations.

Also, you'll receive a memory card in the package that can store up to 32 GB of content in total. Speaking of equipment, you'll also get a case, neck strap, and a night vision scope.

The thing you should remember is that this is not a premium device, so you shouldn't expect much from a GEN 1 night vision device. Still, you can see around 200 m into the distance, and the power of 4x zoom will help you mark your prey.

All in all, it's a nice gadget to have in your hunter's equipment.

Pros
  • Durable construction
  • Resistant
  • 3-inch TFT screen
  • 32 GB memory card
Cons
  • Overall spec sheet

BOOVV NV Goggles - Multi-Application
  • Generation: GEN 1
  • Resolution: 960p
  • Magnification: 1x
  • Battery Type: 6xAA
  • Eye Relief: N/A

We have another inexpensive product up for review. You might not think a lot of it at first since it resembles the previous ones, but it does have some key traits that make it distinct. Here's the BOOVV NV Goggles.

Even though this is also a GEN 1 night vision device, it can still detect around 850 nm wavelength, which gives you advanced vision in the dark beyond your standard NV goggles or binoculars. When you factor in that the overall resolution of images and videos stands at 1280x960 pixels, you know you're getting a quality device.

Aside from having a manual focus option that lets the user dictate the overall focus points of an image, you'll also be able to adjust and use this BOOVV NV goggles in many different ways. For example, you'll get a tripod that immediately transforms your device into a stable camcorder or a simple focus spot from where you can observe your prey without using your hands.

Also, one of the focal points of owning these BOOVV NV goggles is the ability to connect them via micro USB to your computer and save all the data that you've gathered in your recent escapades.

It's easily controlled via the integrated buttons on top, as you can see from the images, The controls are intuitive, and learning how to use them will take you a couple of minutes. Moreover, you'll receive a 32 GB memory card.

It does seem that this one requires more battery power than the standard 6 AA batteries for a full hunting session. So, make sure to bring extra batteries just in case. Overall, it's definitely worth the investment.

Pros
  • Quality night-vision software
  • High-res images and videos
  • USB connection
  • Intuitive
Cons
  • Battery life

Coolife Night Vision Goggles - The Best Infrared System
  • Generation: GEN 1
  • Resolution: 960p
  • Magnification: 1x
  • Battery Type: 6xAA
  • Eye Relief: N/A

Every once in a while comes a product that has something new to offer in the endless sea of the same devices. Here's the story of one, the Coolife Night Vision Goggles.

Like the previous ones, these goggles also work at 850 nm, which is more than enough to produce clear vision in the absolute dark. However, what's interesting is the IR illuminator, which will enable you to control seven different intensities based on your preferences.

Since spotting prey in hidden places can be a challenge, this Coolife Night Vision Goggles is equipped with a 3x optical zoom but also a 4x digital zoom that enhances the overall picture. Of course, all the videos and images you produce will be available for replay on the TFT screen that measures 2.31 inches.

There are six main buttons in total that help you navigate through the basic options that these Coolife goggles offer. They are intuitive and easy to overcome, unlike some military-grade equipment that requires a manual before using.

Even though you'll be investing a small amount of money, that doesn't mean you'll be left empty-handed. The full package comes with a bonus 32 GB memory card, backpack, night vision scope, and a neck strap for ease of use.

The only thing that caught our eye is the brightness of the screen. It's not adjustable, yet too bright, which might scare off some prey if you'll be using it for hunting. Aside from that, it's an unbelievably great device.

Pros
  • IR technology
  • Easy navigation
  • Simple to use
  • Full package accessories
Cons
  • Screen brightness is not adjustable.

Nightfox Swift NV Goggles - The Best Lightweight
  • Generation: GEN 1
  • Resolution: N/A
  • Magnification: 1x
  • Battery Type: Integrated Li-Ion battery
  • Eye Relief: N/A

And finally, we've reached the bottom of our list, and we have one more product left to review. Let's see what the Nightfox Swift NV Goggles have to offer.

Looking from the design perspective, these Nightfox Swift goggles differ a bunch from the previous ones we've covered. It's smaller, more user-friendly, and comes with pre-equipped headgear. Unlike the previous case, here, you can adjust the brightness of the screen so as to keep your position hidden at all times.

Another interesting thing is that these Nightfox Swift goggles do not optimize standard removable batteries, yet they come with a single Li-Ion rechargeable one. Continuous use of this device will give you approximately three hours of running time.

Also, this product is undoubtedly the most affordable one that we've covered. If you think that the previous ones were too much, here's the perfect gambit for you.

The reason that we're calling it a gambit is that you'll get what you paid for. Compared to the rest, the specs are not that terrific. You'll be able to use 2x digital zoom with an overall 75 yards of viewing range.

However, you'll be getting a device that won't pose a problem when you have to pack a lot of equipment that's too bulky. If you're ready to sacrifice quality for a bit of comfort, here you go!

Pros
  • Integrated Li-Ion battery
  • Affordable
  • User-friendly
  • Lightweight
Cons
  • Features

Things to Consider When Choosing the Night Vision Goggles

A wide range of night vision goggles are available in the market and they vary significantly in terms of their performance, quality, price and other features. Following are some of the key factors to consider when purchasing night vision goggles.

1. Range

Different night vision goggles have different ranges.

Some may be able to magnify and clearly capture objects that are at a significant distance. Others may be limited in their reach. Night vision goggles usually have a magnification factor of 1x, 2x or more.

The higher the magnification factor, the longer is their range to be able to capture distant objects clearly. However, a downside to goggles with longer range is that they may perform poorly in low light conditions.

So a good pair of goggles is usually a compromise between range and quality of the captured object, depending on your requirements and needs.

2. Gain

best night vision goggles for hunting

Gain refer to the degree to which a night vision goggle can enhance and clarity an image in darkness using whatever ambient light is available, such as light from the moons or the stars.

As a general rule of thumb, the longer is the range of goggle, the poorer is the gain as magnifying objects situated at longer distances can blur the focus and clarity of the view.

A good night vision goggle usually strikes a balance between the range of the lens and the gain, providing a well-magnified yet clear image of the object being viewed.

3. Image Quality

The quality of the image as perceived through a night vision goggle needs to be good enough so that you can view the objects clearly. Goggles with higher resolution typically let you view objects in the dark more clearly and distinctly.

A quick way to discern the image quality of a night vision goggle is to see if the center and the edges of the object being viewed are displayed sharply by the goggle. If they are sharp, the goggle has a good image quality.

4. Comfort of the Mounting Gear

Most, if not all, night vision goggles are usually used with a head gear. Such a gear may come with straps and other equipment to adjust the goggles in front of your eyes.

A key consideration when choosing the right night vision goggles should be to make sure that this gear is comfortable and allows you use the goggles with ease and comfort.

Best Feature

Product Name

Price

The Best Overall

ATN PS15 Night Vision Goggles

The Best Durable Device

ATN PVS 7 Night Vision Goggles

Best Intuitive Device

Armasight PVS-7 Night Vision Goggles

The Best Versatile

ATN PS-15-WPT NV Goggles

Ease of Use

ATN NVG7-2 NV Goggles

Reliability

Armasight PVS-7 NV Goggles

FAQs

What are the best night vision goggles?

After careful review and testing, our opinion is that it's the ATN PS15 Night Vision Goggles. Their overall specs and features outmatch anything that we've seen on the market right now.


What are the best NV goggles under $1000?

All of the devices that we've covered in the second part of the reviews are considered as some of the best ones right now. If we had to choose, that award goes to the GEN 3 model ATN PVS 7 Night Vision Goggles.


Why are night-vision goggles green?

One of the key components of most NV devices is the green phosphor that's used as a contrast in IR detection. Some devices utilize white phosphor as well, but it's still a debate over which one's better.


How do night vision goggles work?

In layman's terms, infrared light that these devices utilize is reflected off of objects and then amplified into a contrasted picture. Based on the generation and the software, you'll get either a green/black or a white/black image.


How to use night vision goggles?

Night vision goggles usually come with a head gear. Once you mount the gear over your head, the goggle should sit directly in front of your eyes. This allows you to comfortably view through the goggle or to wave it away from your eye view when required.

The technology inside the goggles essentially makes use of a lens to amplify the amount of light in the scene.

The lens is usually sensitive enough to amplify even ambient light, such as moonlight or starlight and use it to illuminate an object which may otherwise be undetectable in the dark.

Best Cheap Night Vision Goggles

Are cheap night vision goggles that work?

The price range for night vision goggles so high. Cheap night vision goggles may seem like a poor choice but the fact is that many of them deliver a good degree of genuine performance.

Most of the night vision goggles listed above come with all the standard features such as the ability to let you view clearly at night, IR illuminator to help you discern in complete darkness and the ability to be used on a head-mount.

These goggles basically perform most of the functions offered in more expensive goggles but on a more humble scale. So for instance, they do offer magnification but not as much as a more expensive goggle.

Similarly, they let you view clearly in complete dark using IR illuminator but the range of their IR illuminator is comparatively less than their more costly counterparts.

Cheap night vision goggles are a good choice if you don’t need night vision for very serious conditions. 

For instance, if you are going to perform relatively harmless surveillance or tactical activities in the night or even hunting and wildlife viewing, these goggles offer good value. They have slightly limited range but within that distance range, they perform rather well. And it goes without saying, they offer a great value for your money.

If you are new to using night vision systems, you should definitely start with one of the cheaper night vision goggles. However, if you need them for serious purposes, such as apprehending criminals as a part of law enforcement activities or for real military situations, they obviously fall short of the mark.

This is simply because they are not designed for such purposes.

They are ideal when you do not move a lot when using them and when you don’t have to look in the dark over long distances. They are also comparatively light-weight and more compact than more expensive goggles, so carrying them is more convenient.

Conclusions

As stated above, a huge range of night vision goggles are available out there and you should consider various factors when finding the right one.

General things to consider when purchasing the right goggles include your budget range, your needs and other preferences. Specific factors to consider regarding the performance of the goggles are listed above.

As you could see, there are too many night vision goggles on the market right now. However, only one can take the crown of the best one, and that's the ATN PS15 Night Vision Goggles.

If you're on a budget and you need something that'll do the job for a low price, then feel free to go for the ATN PVS 7 Night Vision Goggles.

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