If you are looking for the best night vision cam, the essential factors to consider are the lux value, resolution, and durability. With these in mind, I’ve listed the five products on the market below. Read on to learn why these factors matter.
Have you ever wondered how it is possible to shoot video in pitch-dark settings? Well, that makes two of us!
I have always wanted to record my hike adventures at night. I was also quite curious how vloggers capture paranormal sightings.
So I did my research and found out that there are dedicated night vision camcorders out there. Most are night vision security cameras, while others are traditional night vision cameras. I will focus on the latter.
So whether you want to hike at night like me or try ghost hunting, these devices capture all kinds of subjects in the dark.
In this article, I will share with you the best night vision cameras on the market right now. I rounded up these top picks after extensive research. All these products include a touchscreen display for ease of use.
Without further ado, read on!
A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites
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5 Best Night Vision Cameras on the Market
Sony FDRAX53/B Camcorder – Best Overall
Starting off our list is the Sony FDRAX53/B. This handy camcorder features a high-sensitivity image sensor. It supports 4K resolution at either 24 or 30 frames per second (FPS).
It also includes a colored night vision technology that allows you to record clips in pitch dark settings. So if you are into shooting hiking videos or ghost hunting, this night vision camera might be perfect for your needs.
Besides its night vision capabilities, the Sony FDRAX53/B also offers Zeiss 20x optical zoom. It allows you to shoot in the dark from far distances.
What’s more, the B.O.SS stabilization helps reduce shaky video, resulting in steady and professional-like footage.
The only con is that some users have trouble focusing using the camcorder. It will take a while to lock in your subject, which might be a big deal to several people.
Otherwise, the Sony FDRAX53/B is among the best night vision cameras on the market. It is our top choice because of its powerful features, ease of use, and relatively affordable market price.
Specifications:
- Maximum Video Resolution: 4K
- Zoom: 20x optical
- Screen Size: 3-inch
- Weight: 3.2 ounces
Panasonic HC-WXF991K Camcorder – Best All-Around
Want to shoot paranormal documentaries at night and other subjects in the morning? Consider the Panasonic HC-WXF991K.
It boasts a BSI MOS image sensor and infrared night vision technology. These allow you to record high-quality 4K videos in pitch-dark settings.
This night vision camera is also capable of shooting various types of videos. It offers multiple camera scenes, ideal for vlogging, family videos, and more.
There is also an in-camera editing option to make things easier for you. It can crop, zoom in and out, stabilize, and convert 4K clips into HD without using your computer.
On top of all these benefits, the Panasonic HC-WXF991K offers Leica 20x optical zoom and 5-axis image stabilization. These two features ensure professional-like clips, even at night.
Most customer reviews for this night vision camcorder were positive. But some users reported that the camera had difficulty focusing when zooming in or out.
Nevertheless, the Panasonic HC-WXF991K is still one of the best night vision cameras on the market. It is a flexible choice for those planning to shoot at both daylight and nighttime.
Specifications:
- Maximum Video Resolution: 4K
- Zoom: 20x optical
- Screen Size: 3-inch
- Weight: 14.2 ounces
Panasonic HC-V180K Full HD Camcorder – Best Value for Money
The Panasonic HC-V180K Night Vision Camera boasts a backside illumination sensor. It has video recording 1080p video in dimly-lit conditions.
It also has a night mode that enables you to shoot in pitch-black environments.
What’s more, the Panasonic HC-V180K uses a 28mm wide-angle lens. It can capture group images with ease.
Meanwhile, the 50x optical zoom and the 90x intelligent zoom allows you to get close to your subjects.
Apart from these, this night vision cam provides creative filter effects to add more personality to your footage.
And sold for less than $300, we think that the Panasonic HC-V180K offers the best value for your money.
However, some customers had difficulty knowing if they are recording video or not because of the misleading red light. The overall build of this night vision camcorder might not be suited for beginners.
So if you are looking for a more user-friendly device, consider the following product instead.
Specifications:
- Maximum Video Resolution: 1080P
- Zoom: 50x optical
- Screen Size: 2.7-inch
- Weight: 7.5 ounces
Lincom Tech V4G IR Night Vision Camcorder – Best for Beginners
Lincom Tech V4G Camcorder features a high-resolution sensor to capture 4K videos.
The sensor is also capable of switching to infrared night vision mode. This infrared light allows you to shoot photos and videos in pitch-dark settings.
And with just a press of the power button, this night vision cam also lets you record in a webcam setting.
There are even time lapse and slow-motion capture modes. These make it easier for hobbyist videographers to create interesting footage without using editing software.
For further convenience, this night vision camcorder is completely wire-free. It includes a wireless remote, so you control the camera from distances up to 20 meters.
All these benefits make the Lincom Tech V4G suitable for beginners in night vision recording.
Despite these pros and the generally positive reviews, the camera lacks video stabilization and optical zoom. A YouTube video review also said that the camcorder makes an annoying beep sound when turning the device on.
So it is best to manage your expectations when buying this device. Otherwise, it’s a great entry-level cam for most videography enthusiasts.
Specifications:
- Maximum Video Resolution: 4K (3880 x 2160)
- Zoom: 18x digital
- Screen Size: 3-inch
- Weight: 0.176 ounces
SAULEOO IR Night Vision Camcorder – Best Budget
If you are on a tight budget and just want to record night vision clips for fun, consider the SAULEOO 4K Camera.
Although it costs less than $150, this night vision camcorder still delivers decent image quality.
The SAULEOO camera uses a high-resolution sensor for shooting 4K footage at 30 FPS. There is also an IR night vision mode. This low-light technology uses infrared light, so you can shoot videos in complete darkness and low-light conditions.
Besides capturing videos at nighttime, this night vision camcorder is also ideal for vloggers. As a smart device, the camera connects to your computer via a USB cable, so you can instantly stream your night vision work.
It even supports wireless remote control with a maximum night vision range of up to 20 meters. Plus, it lets you use your smartphone as a remote. Simply download the dedicated “XDV PRO” app on your phone and start operating the camcorder.
Most customer reviews were positive. But since it is an off-brand camera (we cannot find the brand’s official website!), it is best to lower your expectations. It also does not offer optical zoom and video stabilization.
But again, if you want a cheap camera that does its job, you can consider buying this one.
Specifications:
- Maximum Video Resolution: 4K
- Zoom: 16x digital
- Screen Size: 3-inch
- Weight: 10.24 ounces
How to Choose the Best Night Vision Camera
Now that you know the five best night vision camcorders, you might be ready to invest in one.
But if you are still unsure which one to buy or the specs to look for, do not worry!
Below, we will discuss the essential factors to consider when shopping for a night vision cam.
Lux Value
In the professional photography industry, lux value determines how much light a camera can capture. The lower the number, the less amount of light is required to get a clear image.
Most night vision cameras have less than 1 lux for colored videos. But if you want to ensure the highest quality video, look for a camcorder with 0.01 to 0.001 lux.
The only downside of using the lowest lux rating is that it converts your video into black and white.
Resolution
Besides lux value, you must also consider the resolution of the night vision camcorder.
In general, a camera with at least HD or 720p resolution will work fine in pitch-black conditions.
But if you want a sharper and more detailed nighttime video, go with full HD or 1080p. You may also want to buy a 4K camera if you plan to use it in all shooting conditions.
Durability
A rugged device can absorb minor impact and resist a few water splashes. It will come in handy, especially if you will be moving around while recording in the dark.
And while no one wants to shoot nighttime videos in the pouring rain, you can never predict the weather.
It is best to buy a durable night vision camcorder to ensure that it will last in harsh shooting conditions.
Battery Life
Whether you are ghost hunting or hiking at night, the last thing you want is your camcorder dying out in the middle of the shoot.
Thus, it is essential to buy a night vision cam with a long-lasting battery. You can also choose a camera with rechargeable batteries. So you can bring an extra pair if you know that you will be recording for long periods.
Zoom
A night vision cam with long optical zoom allows you to shoot a scene from a distance. At the same time, it can also zoom out for capturing wide shots in close-up.
So depending on your needs, you might also want to consider a camcorder with a wide range of zoom.
Local Video Storage
When choosing a night vision camera, it is essential to check its local storage. Does it use SD cards or other memory cards? You might also want to consider the storage capacity of these night vision cameras. The last thing you want is to stop recording midway because your device has a full video storage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is night vision green?
The simple answer is that the human eye can easily detect shades of green. But that does not mean that all night vision camcorders record in the color green. These devices can also capture black and white night videos.
Green is just the preferred color because it ensures an accurate picture compared to other hues.
How far can a night vision camera see?
The night vision range will depend on the model as each one differs in resolution and zoom lens. But in general, night vision cameras can recognize an object at least 10 to 150 meters away. Other night vision security cameras can even see at a further distance.
Can I use a night vision camcorder during the day?
Yes, some night vision camcorders can shoot high-quality videos in the morning and afternoon. These models usually have an IR cut filter to block the infrared light and detect daylight. The filter can keep colors looking accurate, ideal for shooting during the day.
Conclusion
That concludes our round-up of the best night vision cameras on the market.
We chose the Sony FDRAX53/B as our top pick. It features a high-sensitivity sensor that supports 4K recording in pitch-dark settings. There is also in-camera stabilization and Zeiss 20x optical zoom to help you achieve professional-like footage.
Visit this link to purchase the Sony FDRAX53/B Camcorder today!