The Most Comprehensive Guide Of Night vision Devices
Most of you probably have a general idea of what night vision gear is
and some of you seasoned pros have likely handled more models than you can count.
But here's the real question:
Do you really understand what night vision devices are all about?
Scroll through any online forum and you'll find people raving about military-grade NVGs that cost thousands of dollars.
At the same time, you'll hear others claim that digital night vision or surplus gear is complete garbage,
yet tons of people still buyand use it.
So... who's right?
Whether you're a grizzledveteran or just starting your night vision journey,
let CIGMAN offer you a whole new perspective!
Written by CIGMAN
Published on June 05 2025
What Are Night Vision Devices And How Can I Tell The Difference?
What are the different types of night vision devices?
Night vision devices consist of 4 main categories, night vision monocular, night vision binoculars, night vision goggles, and night vision scope.
How can you quickly identify different types of night vision devices just by looking at nods?
The easiest one to spot is the night vision scope. Its design is quite distinctive, typically shaped like a thick, straight cylinder or rectangular tube, almost like a steel pipe. They're usually around 40–50 cm (12–20 inches) long and weigh between 0.8 to 1 kg (2–3 pounds). Brightness and focus adjusting knobs are frequently located on the top or side.
These scopes are designed to be mounted on various platforms, such as hunting rifles. Most come equipped with a Picatinny rail interface on the bottom for easy attachment to firearms. Brand new units can range anywhere from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars, depending on the model.
The difference between night vision monoculars and binoculars is usually pretty easy to spot.Just check whether the device functions like a telescope. Does it have one viewing tube or two? A night vision monocular generally looks like a shorter, more compact version of a night vision scope. It is frequently more portable, stubbier, and has a simpler form.
However, with more hobbyists and DIY users entering the scene, the market has expanded to include more hybrid and multi-functional devices. To meet this demand, many manufacturers have started blending features, so sometimes a monocular can look surprisingly similar to a binocular at first glance.
The good news? It's still easy to tell them apart. Just look at how many eyepieces there are. One eyepiece? That's your monocular. Two? You're looking at binoculars.
| Category | Monocular | Binoculars |
|---|---|---|
| Optical Structure | Single channel: (almost always) one eyepiece and one objective lens. | Dual channel: two eyepieces + two objective lenses. |
| Weight / Size | Lightweight and compact (approx. 300–500g), suitable for handheld or head-mounted use. | Heavier (approx. 600–1000g), usually mounted with a helmet bracket. |
| FOV & Comfort | Single-eye viewing; prolonged use may cause fatigue. | Dual-eye, stereoscopic view; more natural and comfortable for extended use. |
| Expandability | Highly flexible: compatible with helmet mounts, IR modules, or external screens. | Generally more integrated with limited expandability (some high-end models can be split into monoculars). |
Last but not least, let's talk about night vision goggles.
If you've ever searched for or tried to buy NVGs, you might have found yourself a little confused about what night vision goggles actually are. The images of night vision goggles on some websites are grouped together with monoculars or binoculars, while others don't even list goggles as a separate category.
As a result, you have to dig through generic “night vision” listings just to find them. it's frustrating and a total time-waster.So let CIGMAN break it down for you and show you how to identify them quickly.
Night vision goggles are head-mounted devices designed for hands-free use. They typically feature dual eyepieces and dual objective lenses, offering a true binocular viewing experience. Most NVGs are meant to be used with a helmet setup, but there are also models designed to be strapped directly to the head without a helmet.
So, how do you quickly find the exact type of night vision goggles you're looking for? CIGMAN's got a super easy tip for you.
Just go to Google and search: “night vision goggles, helmet” , and yes, that comma is important! It helps refine the search results, filtering out options without a helmet. Give it a try!
This way, you'll mostly get results for high-end, helmet-mounted NVGs, typically military-grade Gen 3 units that cost several thousand dollars or more when new.
Another important point to keep in mind:
Owning military-grade NVGs may be illegal in certain countries.
To help you navigate this, CIGMAN has compiled a reference chart (as of May 2025) so you can quickly check whether such devices are permitted in your country.
Please note that local regulations can vary significantly by state, province, or region, even within the same country. So it's essential to double-check and proceed with caution. Legal advice is not contained in the information supplied; it is merely for reference.
| Country | Military NVD | Civilian NVD |
|---|---|---|
| Australia | Strictly controlled | Use restricted |
| Belgium | Export license required | Mountable devices prohibited, considered illegal |
| Canada | Export license required | Ownership allowed, export license required |
| China | Subject to 'Regulations on the Administration of Military Products Export' | Export control license required |
| France | Strictly controlled | Only Gen 1/2 handheld devices allowed |
| Germany | Export license required | Ownership allowed, mounting on firearms prohibited |
| Iceland | Export license required | Ownership allowed, hunting prohibited |
| India | Export and import prohibited | Ministry of Home Affairs permit required |
| Netherlands | Export license required | Ownership allowed, firearm mounting requires permit |
| New Zealand | Export license required | Allowed for hunting non-native animals |
| Russia | Strictly controlled | Use restricted |
| Singapore | Permit required | Permit required |
| United Kingdom | Strict control; Gen 3+ needs export license | Allowed; firearm mounting usually legal; export license needed for advanced models |
| United States | Export license required (ITAR/EAR) | Ownership allowed, export restricted |
What About Users In Countries Where Military-Grade NVGs Are Restricted Or Prohibited?
Not everyone lives in a place like the U.S. where owning such devices is legal—but that doesn't mean your night vision journey has to end there.
Many people are still eager to explore the world of NVGs, whether it's for casual outdoor adventures, weekend hikes, wildlife spotting, or simply as a unique and thoughtful gift for a child, a parent, a friend, or even your significant other.
That's exactly why CIGMAN proudly introduces the X1 PRO—a night vision device designed specifically for outdoor enthusiasts living in regions where military-grade gear isn't allowed.
While the X1 PRO isn't a Gen 3 military unit, it's crafted with both entry-level users and serious hobbyists in mind. From its thoughtfully engineered design to its rich feature set, the X1 PRO brings you as close as possible to high-end performance—at just a fraction of the cost. For just a few hundred dollars, you'll be able to enjoy capabilities that are typically reserved for far more expensive military-grade devices.
And yes, it looks awesome too. We won't be modest about that. At CIGMAN, we take product design seriously. The X1 PRO doesn't just perform; it makes a statement.It's fully certified for safety with FCC, CE, and RoHS compliance, and has even won multiple prestigious design awards, including the 2024 MUSE Design Platinum Award and the 2024 American Good Design Platinum Award.
Whether you're using it yourself or giving it as a gift, the X1 PRO is ready to impress both in performance and in style.
Besides its cool appearance, the CIGMAN X1 PRO also comes with the following great features.
Samsung Dual OLED Screen: 1.28-inch dual screen with 416×416 resolution, 5-level brightness, and adjustable sunshade filter.
Day & Night Use: Supports viewing from 0.5m to infinity in daylight and up to 600m in total darkness, with invisible 850nm IR for stealth.
High-Performance Lens: F1.0, f=25mm large-aperture lens with 5×optical and 8×digital zoom for clear viewing from near to far.
High-Resolution Imaging: Captures up to 40MP photos and records video, with a 64GB memory card included.
Long Battery Life: Built-in 3500mAh lithium battery with USB charging for extended use.
Lightweight & Wearable: Weighs only 360g and is head-mountable for comfort.
User-Friendly Interface: Simplified controls with a smartphone-style UI for easy operation.
3 Year Warranty & Support: Includes returns and exchanges for defective units, with customer service response within 24 hours.
"I used the CIGMAN digital night vision device to observe alligators in my yard. The IR light has minimal impact on animals, and I could even record videos."
"My night vision device worked well during forest hikes. Don't expect ultra-high definition, but you can see the trail and animal eyes just fine."
If you are interested in CIGMAN X1 PRO, check out the product page of CIGMAN X1 PRO!
What About All Those
Super Cheap Night Vision Devices Online?
And what about those shockingly cheap used NVGs on eBay?
We get it. Most of us are seasoned online shoppers by now. And aside from the usual pitfalls we're all too familiar with, like misleading product listings, missing parts, shipping damage, or just plain shady sellers—there's still one specific case where a secondhand night vision device might be worth considering. (Just to be clear: CIGMAN doesn't endorse or recommend any specific platforms.)
For example, searching local flea markets for vintage or discontinued high-end gear can sometimes lead to great finds. Or you might spend hours browsing big secondhand or international marketplaces and come across a hidden gem. Of course, it depends on whether you think the time and effort are worth it. Some people enjoy the thrill of the hunt. If that's you, this path might be a good fit.
Now, let's get back to the knowledge part!
How Does Night Vision Work?
What Are The Principles Of Optics And Physics?
The basic principle of night vision goggles involves an objective lens system that focuses an image onto the photo-cathode of an image intensifier tube, which then produces an amplified image viewed through an eyepiece lens[1].
First, an objective lens system collects and focuses ambient light, such as starlight, moonlight, or infrared reflections onto the photocathode of an image intensifier tube. This component is important in converting photons into electrons, which are then amplified within the tube and converted back into visible light on a phosphor screen. The result? A significantly brighter image that is viewed through the eyepiece lens.
Unlike traditional night vision, digital night vision uses a CMOS or CCD sensor to capture light directly.Image brightness and contrast are enhanced through built-in processing, and the result is shown on an LCD screen or viewfinder.
This approach allows features like photo capture, video recording, and digital zoom, making it ideal for casual and recreational use.
Do You Know When Was Night Vision Invented?
If you want to understand when night vision devices were invented, you need to start with how they've evolved across different generations.
What defines the generation of night vision devices?
If you want to understand the generational evolution of night vision devices, you first need to know what core components they're built from and more importantly, what those components actually do. Let's work backward from functionality.
In general, different models of night vision goggles vary in field of view, resolution, exit pupil diameter, eyepiece adjustment, weight, and more[1].
You'll quickly notice that most of these features are directly related to the lens system, or more precisely to image quality.
Of course, we don't want to give you misleading or overly simplified information. The term "generation" of NVGs is an industry convention, not an officially defined U.S. government standard.
However, in documents from manufacturers that collaborate with the U.S. military, the technological evolution of night vision devices is often grouped by distinct stages, and the most significant differences between these stages come from the development of the night vision tube itself.
So, in practice, NVG generations are mainly defined by the materials and technologies used in their image intensifier tubes.
There are four commonly recognized generations—Gen 0 through Gen 4. Gen 0 is now virtually obsolete, and Gen 4 is so advanced that most technical details are not publicly available or commercially distributed. That means Gen 1 through Gen 3 are the most relevant for consumers and professionals today.
| Gen. | Time | |
| Gen 0 | 1940s–1960s | |
| Night Vision Tech | Advancement | Devices |
|
First practical night imaging, but bulky and easily detectable. |
|
| Gen 1 | 1960s–1970s | |
| Night Vision Tech | Advancement | Devices |
|
Eliminated active IR, improved stealth, but low gain (~1,000x), edge distortion. |
|
| Gen 2 | 1970s–1990s | |
| Night Vision Tech | Advancement | Devices |
|
Higher resolution (25–30 lp/mm), compact design, usable under starlight-only conditions. |
|
| Gen 3 | 1990s–Present | |
| Night Vision Tech | Advancement | Devices |
|
10x higher sensitivity vs Gen 2 (~2,000 µA/lm), superior performance in extreme low-light. |
|
Night Vision Tech
- Active Infrared (IR)
- Relies on IR illuminators
- S-1 photocathode (Ag-O-Cs)
- Low sensitivity, requires strong IR light
Advancement
First practical night imaging, but bulky and easily detectable.
Devices
- PAU-2
- PNV-57A Tanker goggles
Night Vision Tech
- Passive Low-Light
- Electrostatic focusing
- Multialkali (S-20)
- Moonlight/starlight-dependent
Advancement
Eliminated active IR, improved stealth, but low gain (~1,000x), edge distortion.
Devices
- AN/PVS-1
- AN/PVS-2
Night Vision Tech
- Microchannel Plate (MCP)
- MCP electron amplification (~20,000x)
- Improved S-25 photocathode
- Fiber optic faceplate
Advancement
Higher resolution (25–30 lp/mm), compact design, usable under starlight-only conditions.
Devices
- AN/PVS-4
- AN/PVS-5 (Binocular)
Night Vision Tech
- Gallium Arsenide (GaAs) Photocathode
- Extended spectral response (to 900 nm)
- Ion barrier film (lifespan >15k hrs)
- Autogated power supply
Advancement
10x higher sensitivity vs Gen 2 (~2,000 µA/lm), superior performance in extreme low-light.
Devices
- AN/NVS-7
- AN/PVS-14 (Monocular)
Which Night Vision Device Is Right for You?
What features do you actually need?
If you haven't used multiple models of night vision devices, or don't own several units yourself. It can be hard to know what kind of night vision gear is truly right for you. Does the best one usually cost the most? Not always.
That's where CIGMAN comes in. Let us give you a quick, no-nonsense breakdown of the features that matter most in different use scenarios and help you understand what level of performance is actually enough for your needs.
Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a casual user, or someone shopping for a thoughtful gift, we'll help you match functionality with real-world expectations, so you can make a smart choice without overpaying.
| Use | Key Features | Device | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Military | Hi-res, wide FOV, glare resistance, helmet-ready, thermal | Goggles | For tactical ops, night patrols, and head-mounted dual-eye use. |
| Law Patrol | Lightweight, IR light, gain control, thermal assist | Monocular | For one-handed use and fast deployment. |
| Hunting | Long battery, IR light, recording, thermal | Binoculars | Great for long-range, stereo vision in hunts. |
| Outdoor | Low cost, portable, IR light, video | Monocular | Easy to carry for casual outdoor use. |
| Security | 24/7 use, remote view, image save, thermal | Binoculars | Best for long-time, long-distance monitoring. |
| Driving | No light needed, smoke-proof, real-time view | Goggles | For hands-free, real-time vision while driving at night. |
Purely from a functionality standpoint, the table below will help you quickly identify which features matter most to you.
| Funcs/Need | Military | Law Patrol | Hunting | Outdoor | Security | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High resolution | ★★★★ | ★★★ | ★★★ | ★★ | ★★★ | ★★★★ |
| Wide FOV | ★★★★ | ★★★ | ★★ | ★★ | ★★ | ★★★★ |
| Glare resistance | ★★★★ | ★★★ | ★★ | ★ | ★★ | ★★★ |
| IR light | ★★★ | ★★★ | ★★★ | ★★★ | ★★★ | ★ |
| Thermal fusion | ★★★★ | ★★★ | ★★★ | ★★ | ★★★ | ★★★★ |
| Video recording | ★★ | ★★ | ★★★ | ★★★ | ★★★ | ★★ |
| Lightweight | ★★★ | ★★★ | ★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★ | ★★★ |
Key features to prioritize in entry-level night vision
If you're just getting started and not a professional, you really don't need to spend too much on high-end gear.
CIGMAN has summarized the features of entry-level night vision devices to help you quickly identify what you truly need.
| Funcs | DESC | Priority |
|---|---|---|
| IR light | Provides invisible illumination in moonless conditions to avoid disturbing animals while ensuring image brightness. | ★★★★ |
| Low-light | Enhances visibility in low-light environments with minimal natural light. | ★★★★ |
| Pic & Video | Record your observations for playback or sharing. | ★★★ |
| Lightweight | You're not using it professionally—portability really matters. | ★★★★ |
| Battery / Runtime | Prevents power loss during extended trips like camping or hiking. | ★★★ |
| FOV / Zoom | Helps track moving targets, such as nocturnal wildlife. | ★★★ |
| Eye Comfort | Reduces eye strain during prolonged viewing. | ★★ |
| Tripod Support | Allows stable, hands-free observation over long periods. | ★★ |
| Price | As a beginner, you don't need an expensive high-end model. | ★★★★ |
Still unsure after reading the comparison?
No worries! CIGMAN has prepared a quick product comparison chart to help you choose the right device based on your needs.
| NVDs | Experts / Beginners | Level | MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|
| Goggles | Special forces, military police, tactical drivers | Gen3 / Gen3+ | $5,000 – $9,995 |
| Monocular |
Law enforcement, explorers, security personnel
Campers, outdoor beginners
|
Gen1–Gen3
Gen1–Gen2
|
$800 – $1,800
$140 – $400
|
| Binoculars |
Hunters, surveillance/security staff
Birdwatchers, nature observers, home users
|
Gen1+ / Digital
Digital Only
|
$600 – $1,100
$63 – $500
|
| NVDs | Use Case | Cons | MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|
| Goggles |
Military ops, night driving, tactical tasks
—
|
High cost, heavy
—
|
$3,395 – $9,995
—
|
| Monocular |
Law enforcement patrol, security rounds
Hiking, camping, beginner stargazing
|
Single-eye viewing, tired
Single-eye viewing, tired
|
$140 – $1,800
$140 – $400
|
| Binoculars |
Hunting, stargazing
Farm surveillance, wildlife watching, boating
|
Bulky, requires tripod, less portable
Bulky, requires tripod, less portable
|
$600 – $1,100
$63 – $500
|
The tables above are based on real-world market insights.
You may have noticed that we didn't include any entry-level recommendation for night vision goggles. That's because, in today's market, it's genuinely rare to find a product that properly bridges the gap between Gen 2 and Gen 3 performance at an accessible level.
That's exactly why we confidently recommend CIGMAN's products designed to deliver real value where most options fall short.
Key Performance Parameters
Every Professional NVG User Should Know
Night vision goggle (NVG) design involves a variety of critical parameters, including: field of view, signal-to-noise ratio, image quality, luminance uniformity, exit pupil size, brightness level, eye relief, luminance gain, image alignment, beamsplitter ratio, magnification, fixed-pattern noise, image rotation, binocular coordination, optical distortion, and optical axis alignment[3].
CIGMAN has summarized the most essential ones for professional-grade users:
1. Field of View (FOV):
The virtual image's angular extent, usually expressed in degrees (horizontal and vertical), as seen through the NVG. A wider FOV improves situational awareness.
2. Resolution:
The NVG's ability to clearly define image detail, often expressed using the Snellen ratio. Higher resolution allows more accurate target identification.
3. Spectral Sensitivity:
Describes how well the NVG responds to various light wavelengths. Generally speaking, Gen 3 tubes are more sensitive than Gen 2.
4. Luminance Gain:
The ratio of output brightness to input brightness. It indicates how much the device amplifies available light, usually measured under standardized input levels.
5. Eye Relief:
User-eye-eyepiece distance that provides a full image view, which is important for comfort over extended periods of time, particularly while wearing glasses or helmets.
6. Weight:
Crucial for extended use. Lighter NVGs reduce neck strain and improve mobility during missions.
7. Beamsplitter Ratio:
Determines how light is divided inside the optics. A well-balanced beamsplitter enhances both image clarity and brightness uniformity.
8. Magnification:
Affects the perceived size of the observed scene. Most NVGs offer 1x magnification to maintain depth perception, but higher magnifications are used in scopes.
How To Get Started As A Beginner?
And The Must-Know Maintenance Secrets!
Step1: Hold the device properly
As shown in the image, the area with the teardrop-shaped silicone cover is usually the eyepiece. Hold the device with both hands to keep it steady and make it easier to operate the buttons.
Step 2: Properly insert the SD card
Insert the SD card and fully charge the device before first use to ensure good battery maintenance.
Step 3: Switch the system language
The language can be changed according to your location. English is set as the default.
1. Hold the power button to power on.
2. To access the menu, hit 'M', then '-(manus)', choose 'Language', and then press 'OK'.
3. To exit, press the power button once.
Step 4: Refer to the user manual
Use it like you would a button-phone or a Switch console.
That said, even if you skip the manual, a few tries are usually enough to figure it out.
Why Choose CIGMAN
As Your First Night Vision Goggles Brand?
1. CIGMAN specializes in laser electrical measurement and night vision tools that help users solve problems quickly in both professional and daily settings.
2. CIGMAN's products are safe, compliant, eco-friendly, user-friendly, and meet international standards with patented designs.
3. CIGMAN's products have been sold to more than 30 countries with more than 10,000,000 products.
4. CIGMAN insists on providing customers with high-quality products and promise to provide customers with 36-month worry-free after-sales service.
References
[1] Task, H. L. (1992). NIGHT VISION DEVICES AND CHARACTERISTICS. In Visual Problems in Night Operations (pp. 7 - 1 - 7 - 8). Neuilly Sur Seine, France: NATO Advisory Group for Aerospace Research & Development. (NTIS No. AGARD - LS - 187). Retrieved from https://apps.dtic.mil/sti/pdfs/ADA430650.pdf
[2] Data source: HandWiki. (n.d.). Night vision device. Retrieved from https://handwiki.org/wiki/Physics:Night_vision_device
[3] Carstens, C. B., Bonnett, C. C., & Redden, E. S. (2005). Enhanced Night Vision Goggle Customer Test report. Army Research Lab Aberdeen Proving Ground MD. Retrieved from https://apps.dtic.mil/sti/tr/pdf/ADA453392.pdf