Firefighters are always on the lookout for reliable thermal imaging cameras to help determine hot spots, analyze the situation on the field, locate victims, and many other use cases. Here we’ll review the top 15 thermal imaging cameras to narrow down your search.
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Top 15 Thermal Imaging Cameras
1. CAT S62 Pro
Top Features
- 1280 x 720 thermal resolution
- Refresh rate up to 9Hz
- Wide dynamic range
- 4,000 mAh battery
- Constantly clear image
Pros
CAT S62 Pro is an excellent firefighter thermal imaging camera with an exceptional refresh rate of 9Hz. Features like spot temperature measurement, wide dynamic range, and taking videos and photos make this model well worth considering. A waterproof design means the camera is suitable for outdoor use.
- Waterproof
- Takes photos and videos
- Has spot temperature measurement
Cons
This camera has a slightly thicker design due to plenty of protection. It also may perform slower during multitasking compared to some competitors.
- Thick design
- Not the best for multi-tasking
Why We Like It: We like CAT S62 Pro for its reliable thermal camera, sharp image, and waterproof design. The device is well worth it for firefighters regardless of experience level.
2. FLIR K55
Top Features:
- Crisp thermal images
- Bright LCD
- 320 x 240-pixel IR sensor
- 60 Hz frame rate
Pros
The FLIR K55 is a robust camera with a maintenance-free sensor that produces 320 x 240-pixel images for easy navigation through smokey conditions. Firefighters can store up to 200 photos and videos in the device and use it on the computer for later analysis.
- Stores up to 200 photos and videos
- 320 x 240-pixel thermal images rich in details
- 10-year detector warranty
- Lightweight design
- Numerous image modes
Cons
The FLIR K55 camera is as good as it gets. The only downside is a lack of compatibility with other systems.
- Only compatible with FLIR systems
Why We Like It: We love the FLIR K55 thermal image camera for its numerous image modes (IR, black and white, basic fire-fighting mode, fire mode, heat detection mode, etc.). The camera comes with a great set of features for a range of applications, including firefighter use.
3. FLIR K65
Top Features:
- NFPA-compliant
- 320 x 240-pixel thermal images
- FSX digital image enhancement
- Fixed focus
Pros
FLIR K65 is your go-to high-end thermal imaging camera with a 2x digital zoom, 200 file support (videos + images), 60 Hz image frequency, and a 9 mm focal length.
- Advanced features
- Rugged design
Cons
The only downside to FLIR K65 is the high price. The camera isn’t the most expensive on the market, but it still has a hefty price tag.
- High price tag
Why We Like It: We like the K65 model due to its specific design to fit most firefighter needs. It offers high-resolution images and can withstand extreme conditions.
4. Seek Thermal Reveal Pro
Top Features:
- Lightweight
- Detects temperatures up to 1500 degrees C
- Long battery life
- Easy to use
Pros
The Seek Thermal Reveal Pro is a go-to camera for all firefighting needs. It has unique features that make it suitable for any type of fire emergency. The lightweight camera has a rugged surface, 320 x 240 resolution, and temperature detection up to 1,500 degrees Celsius.
- High-temperature detection range
- Great IR resolution
- 4-hour battery life
- Lightweight
Cons
The Seek Thermal Reveal Pro’s screen is only 2.4 inches big. The thermal zoom is also difficult to use.
- Challenging to use the thermal zoom
- Small LCD screen
Why We Like It: The affordable price, high-resolution camera, and 300-lumen LED flashlight makes this an excellent camera for firefighting teams on a budget.
5. CAT S61
Top Features:
- 4G connectivity
- FLIR thermal camera
- 16MP autofocus
- Dual LED flash
- Waterproof
Pros
The CAT S61 is among the most comprehensive thermal imaging cameras on the market. It has cameras on the front and back of the device, IP68 and IP69 certifications for waterproof features and element resistance, and it’s compatible with multiple screening apps.
- Waterproof design
- SAF/EST app compatibility
- Measures temperature, volatile organic compounds, and humidity
- Huge battery
Cons
The only downside to the CAT S61 is its limited availability.
- Limited availability
Why We Like It: CAT S61 is a classic firefighter thermal imaging camera with all the features you need for fast and efficient service.
6. FLIR TG297
Top Features:
- Up to 1030 C thermal scope
- MSX image enhancement
- Waterproof
- Excellent thermal sensitivity
Pros
This handheld camera is suitable for extreme heat. It has an infrared sensor, a 1600 x 1200 visual camera, allowing the user to pinpoint a specific hot spot they want to measure. The 100-lumens LED light is perfect for hitting those dark spots.
- Bluetooth and USB connectivity
- Easy image transfer
- IR sensor
- Stores 50,000 JPG images
Cons
- Lack of radiometric thermal data in the images
Why We Like It: The FLIR TG267 camera is perfect for commercial use, firefighters, and other professions. Its rugged design makes it resistant to the elements. We love the high accuracy for temperatures from 50 to 100 degrees C.
7. MSA Evolution 5200
Top Features:
- Sharp images
- Easy operation
- 160 C to 560 C temperature range
Pros
The MSA Evolution 5200 is a robust camera with high-resolution imaging capabilities for hands-on visualization. The compact design makes transport and operation easy.
- Automated features
- Lightweight design
- High-resolution thermal imaging
- Enhanced image quality
Cons
The two major downsides to this camera are its relatively short battery life span and limited availability.
- Battery life could be better for long-term usage
- Limited availability
Why We Like It: This camera has automated features that make a firefighter’s job faster and more efficient.
8. FLIR C5
Top Features:
- Wi-Fi handheld
- High-resolution
- Rugged design
- Easy to use
Pros
The FLIR C5 camera is durable and can withstand drops from up to 3m. It’s suitable for commercial and residential use, with firefighting being one of its main use cases. The ergonomic design with a low-profile probe tip makes the device easy to use.
- 3-in-1 thermal camera, LED floodlight, and visual inspection camera
- MSX image enhancement
- The rubber case has an IP54 rating
- 1 GB free cloud storage
Cons
- Slight processing speed lag
- Images can only be downloaded from the FLIR Ignite Cloud
Why We Like It: This camera is excellent for finding small issues and makes it easy to move from diagnosis to repair.
9. FLIR T400
Top Features:
- 3.1 MP light camera
- 320 x 240 resolution
- 0.05C thermal sensitivity
- 8x digital zoom
Pros
This feature-dense camera has everything you need in a reliable firefighting thermal imaging device:
- 1,200C temperature calibration standard
- 3.5-inch LCD touchscreen
- Audible alarm temperature screening
- Panorama function
Cons
The main downside of this camera is the extremely high price tag. However, you’re unlikely to find a camera with as much value.
- Hefty price tag
Why We Like It: This feature-dense camera has excellent image quality, advanced functionalities, and a wide range of lens options. We love it for its versatility and ease of use.
10. CAT S60
Top Features:
- Extra-rugged body
- Built-in thermal imaging camera
- Expandable storage
- Latest Android operating system
Pros
If you’re looking for a reliable Android thermal imaging camera, CAT S60 may be your best bet. The device has plenty of pre-installed apps, a rugged design, and an infrared camera.
- Infrared camera
- Designed to take a beating
- Good image quality
Cons
CAT S60 comes from a reputable company, and users pay a good sum. However, the overall value for money could be better.
- Sluggish sensors
- Not the best value for the money
Why We Like It: Thermal imaging cameras hardly get any better than CAT. This model has Wi-Fi connectivity, a waterproof design, and a 13MP autofocus rear camera.
11. FLIR E8-XT
Top Features:
- The infrared camera with an extended temperature range
- +/- 2% thermal accuracy
- In-Built Wi-Fi
- Hot and cold spot measurements
- -20C – 550C temperature range
Pros
The FLIR E8-XT is a go-to reliable, fast, and feature-packed thermal imaging camera for firefighters. The 76,800-pixel infrared detector (320 x 240) and expanded temperature range make it an all-around firefighting camera solution.
- Feature-packed
- Easy connection with FLIR Tools Mobile App
- Non-Wi-Fi version available
Cons
- Only holds up to 500 images
Why We Like It: We like this camera for its extended temperature range, flexible product variations (Wi-Fi, non-Wi-Fi, and NIST-certified), and hot and cold spot measurements.
12. HTI@XT Instrument Thermal Imager
Top Features:
- 3.2-inch full-color display
- 220 x 160 resolution
- 3 GB built-in memory
Pros
If you’re looking for a thermal imaging camera on a budget, look no further than this solution. It gets the job done without breaking the bank and comes in five variations.
- Super affordable
- High resolution
- Five pallets
- Great for professionals
Cons
- Low resolution
Why We Like It: This affordable camera can’t compete with high-end solutions on the market, but it’s certainly one of the best low-budget options. The large display, high accuracy, and universal use (indoors and outdoors) make it a great purchase.
13. Parrot ANAFI Thermal Drone
Top Features:
- FLIR Lepton 3.5 module
- Temperature range from -10C to 400C
- FreeFlight 6 app connectivity
- Camera self-orientation 90 degrees upwards
- 2D mapping function
Pros
The drone’s 2D mapping function doesn’t require internet connectivity. The system is compatible with numerous software, including Pix4Dcapture, Pix4Dmapper, FLIR Tools, and FreeFlight 6.
- Assisted flying
- Radiometric sensor
- Subject isolation (heat leak, water leak, etc.)
Cons
This drone is more complicated to use than regular mobile computers. However, it’s well worth it for those eager to learn.
- Higher learning curve
- Hefty price tag
Why We Like It: The drone industry is growing and quickly spreading to the thermal imaging camera market. This drone has everything you want and more to help any firefighter’s task run smoothly and with unparalleled accuracy.
14. FLIR T1010
Top Features:
- 3.1 MP resolution
- Superior thermal sensitivity
- 3-month software subscription
Pros
Firefighters who have never used thermal imaging cameras as well as those with extensive experience can benefit from the FLIR T1010.
- Three product variations
- HD resolution images
- Thermal measurements up to 650 degrees C
- Agile GUI
- 120-degree rotating compact frame optical block
Cons
- Expensive
Why We Like It: The T1010 is one of the most serious and feature-dense thermal imaging cameras on the market. If you have the budget, you won’t make a mistake getting this model and benefiting from the latest technology updates.
15. FLIR K2
Top Features:
- Multi-spectral dynamic imaging
- Compact design
- IP67 water resistance
- Automatic hot detection
Pros
This camera is an excellent solution for firefighters looking for an effective, stable, and flexible camera.
- Lightweight design
- Rugged structure
- Powerful performance
Cons
The IR sensor of the camera has a notably low resolution. It also has a slower refresh rate.
- Slow refresh rate
- Low IR sensor resolution
Why We Like It: This camera has a great battery life, quick charging, and simple operation. We love it for its single-button operation and relatively good value for money.
How FLIR Thermal Imaging Helps Firefighters
- It helps detect sources of heat in a smoke-filled area
- Finds hot spots in fires
- Locates trapped victims
- Helps find escape routes
- Helps find hazardous materials
- Assists in employing efficient firefighting strategies on the field
- Promotes situational awareness
Understanding the Overall Settings on a Thermal Imaging Camera
- IR Resolution – recording the finest possible details
- Display – a monitor to access the thermal image
- Image Modes – settings to adjust how the image appears to the user
- Object Temperature Range – minimum and maximum temperature range the camera can record
- Depth of Filed – focusing on things located at different distances
- Spectral Filtering – filtering out specific infrared radiation wavelengths
- Spectral Response – detecting infrared radiation wavelengths
- Temperature Measurement Units – displaying the temperature in multiple units like Celsius, Kelvin, or Fahrenheit
- Field of View – the scene visible on the display
- Image Processing – enhancing the image using various algorithms
Talk to a Firefighting Tech Expert
Thermal imaging cameras make firefighters’ jobs faster, more efficient, and safer. Choosing the best camera for your team can be overwhelming due to the wide range of available brands and models with different functionalities.
Contact a firefighting tech expert at EE to discuss your needs and get recommendations on the best device for your team. We can also assist you with bulk purchases.
