Whether you are a professional building contractor or a serious do-it-yourselfer, buying a thermal imager camera would be one of the wisest investments you could make.
The thermal imagers are also known as infrared cameras because they rely on sensors that utilize infrared heat to present an exceptionally vivid image.
These cameras capture high heat levels, which in turn deliver infrared radiation providing crystal clear characteristics of thermal images.
There are is a wide assortment of thermal imager cameras on the market running from less than $170 to more than $10,000.
The good news is that even the less expensive versions can still deliver well-defined images that you cannot see with the naked eye. There are many uses for these specialized cameras especially for detecting leaks, resolving structural damage and rectifying issues based on specific temperatures.
Product | Details | Rating |
|---|---|---|
OUR #1 RATED  FLIR ONE Thermal Imaging Camera | 4.5 out of 5 | |
 Seek Thermal Compact Imager | 4.5 out of 5 | |
 Fluke VT04 Infrared Imager | 4 out of 5 | |
 Perfect Prime Infrared Thermal Imager Camera | 4 out of 5 | |
 HTI@XT Instrument Infrared Thermal Imager | 4 out of 5 |
By using a thermal imager camera you can greatly reduce the high cost of a heating or cooling problem by knowing exactly where the origin of the issue is.
Areas that are in question can be located quickly and dealt with faster and with a higher level of accuracy. The only difference between the less expensive cameras and the higher priced models are the additional perks.
Below we've reviewed the top 10 best thermal image cameras on the market in 2021.
FLIR C2 Compact Thermal Imaging System
The reduced size of the FLIR C2 makes it a favorite amongst on-the-go contractors and experienced building professionals. It provides a wide view and strong images so you can ensure that the problem areas you are working on have been successfully corrected.
The FLIR C2 has a picture-in-picture feature where a portion of the image you select can overlap a digital view so you can ensure that the problem has been resolved and you can document the end results.
Works best in checking both hot and cold electrical components, providing crisp images of structural damage, and isolating plumbing leaks by honing in directly on the localized area.
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RIDGID RT-3 Thermal Imaging Camera
More than twice the cost of the FLIR C2, the Rigid company created the RT-3 thermal imaging camera for those who are just getting started using thermography. The RT-3 is an efficient means for detecting just about any issues that need to be addressed by service contractors when constructing or inspecting buildings.
Professional builders, repairmen, and inspectors are gravitating to thermal imager cameras because they help them provide a more accurate diagnosis as well as rectifying the situation much quicker.
The RT-3 has a feature called ScaleAssist that can automatically adjust the range of the thermal process to provide a more exact image. This works in conjunction with SuperResolution which raises the resolution by twice the amount giving you a proven attention to detail.
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Leupold LTO-Tracker Thermal
With a price tag that is just a little over $500, the Leupold LTO-Tracker Thermal is an imager camera that prides itself in the highest level of optimal performance.
While many of the other thermal imager cameras are used to detect building defects and leakage, the Leupold LTO- Tracker is used primarily for hunting. Used mostly in dark wooded areas this camera has night vision capabilities.
Because the Leupold LTO-Tracker is used almost entirely outdoors this camera is built to last and is also waterproof. It can be used for a variety of hunting expeditions as well as fishing trips.
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Hti-Xintai Thermal Imaging Camera
This thermal imaging camera by Hti-Xintal is compact in size but it’s able to deliver images in real-time.
The beauty of the thermal range of this camera is that it is able to identify hot spots as well as cold spots, it can capture the differences in temperature levels, and it can keep all of this information documented. Having this data at your fingertips can actually prevent problems from occurring in the future.
The Hti-Xintal is equipped with a screen that displays high-resolution pictures in color. Besides being able to display the level of heat, this thermal imager camera can also alert you to leaks, water buildups, and plumbing blockages. With a price tag of just over $400, you can’t afford to not keep this camera on-hand.
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Amprobe IRC-120 Thermal Camera
All you have to do with the Amprobe IRC-120 is decide on an area where you would like to check the heat, aim, and you will get an instant infrared image.
The laser pointer makes it easy to hone right in on a specific area and the vivid picture you have before you will help you to resolve electrical issues, leaks in the insulation, or structural differences.
Besides many of the usual uses for this camera, people who live in extremely cold areas find it makes replacing weatherstripping a breeze. Being able to keep your home toasty warm and draft-free is worth the cost of this thermal imager.
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HTI@XT Instrument Infrared Thermal Imager
This thermal imager from HTI@XT is able to produce high-quality images that you would normally only achieve on cameras that are ten times the price.
The screen is 3.2 inches in size and displays vivid color pictures with a high resolution. You can decide which of five colors you would like to implement for the situation you are working on.
Even though this imager is less than a pound it provides exact temperature readings finding discrepancies that many other cameras have missed. It is easy to use and has been the perfect tool for carrying out inspections of buildings at all levels.
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Perfect Prime Infrared Thermal Imager Camera
When you buy a product that has the word perfect in the title your expectations are already high. You have nothing to worry about with the Perfect Prime Infrared Thermal Imager Camera.
Not only does it live up to its name, but it also surpasses it with vivid images and precisely accurate temperature readings.
This thermal imager helps you to resolve issues quickly and lets you deliver your documentation as a JPG. The uses for this moderately priced camera range from professional contracting and home use, to fighting fires, fighting crime, and delving into the field of medicine.
The Perfect Prime camera provides you with an overlay that lets you combine normal copies with thermal versions.
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Fluke VT04 Infrared Imager
One of the first features you get to experience as soon as you take this Fluke Infrared Imager out of the package is that it is instantly easy to use and it includes a comprehensive manual.
The color screen immediately projects the range of temperatures accurately. This camera allows you to transfer your documentation right to your computer.
This camera has an overlay that makes the chosen image standout so you can show your clients where their temperature problems are. A double view lets you see the heat map while looking at the image.
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Seek Thermal Compact Imager
The Seek Thermal Compact Imager is a unique form of camera in many ways. For one, it works in conjunction with a smartphone. You simply plug it in and the thermal image will become displayed on your phone’s screen.
To say the Seek imager is compact is an understatement. This thermal camera is a mere 7.8 ounces but is just big enough to offer a viewing area that spans 36 degrees.
Even though it is compact you are still able to pick up thermal images that are as far away as 1000 feet.
The compact imager comes in a case that is waterproof and it is the perfect size for professionals on the go.
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FLIR ONE Thermal Imaging Camera
The FLIR ONE is similar to the Seek Thermal Compact Imager except it is meant primarily for Gen. 3 versions of IOS phones. It is even available for the same price, just under $170. One difference between the two cameras is the FLIR does not require you to register your device.
With this camera you can easily resolve problems in complete darkness. You don’t have to register your device and you can utilize many aspects of social media such as sharing your documentation and images. Doubles your vision by combining visible and thermal cameras.
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Which Thermal Imager Camera Should You Buy?
If you are considering purchasing a thermal imager camera, check the selections listed to find a version that suits your needs.
If you are a professional who requires one for work you should invest in a camera that has confirmed extras that will help you perform your job with proven accuracy. All of the cameras listed are from reputable companies that offer warranties on their cameras.
There are some inexpensive imagers that are perfect for homeowners and those just starting out in the thermal imaging area.
But if you plan on relying on this device to help with serious situations, such as structural damage, plumbing leaks, or electrical differentials, investing in a more expensive thermal camera will return its higher price with just a few successful jobs.
Lauren Gamble is an author, mompreneur, co-founder of Naturally Made Essentials. She is on a mission to help thousands of women across the world achieve a healthy, happy lifestyle through teaching natural health practices.
