If you’re in the market for a thermal monocular, the FLIR Scout TK and Scout TKx should definitely be on your radar. As premium thermal imagers designed for hunting, search and rescue, surveillance, and other outdoor uses, these sibling models share many similarities. But they also have key differences that impact their performance, features, and price point.
We’ll compare the Scout TK Vs. TKx head-to-head so you can determine the right option for your needs and budget. Stick around as we dive into resolution, detection range, lenses, batter life, and other key factors. We’ll also answer some frequently asked questions about these two FLIR Scout models and other thermal monocular considerations.
| Specs | FLIR Scout TK | FLIR Scout TKx |
| Resolution | 336×256 pixels | 640×512 pixels |
| Lenses Included | 19 mm lens | 19 mm & 42 mm macro lenses |
| Detection Range | Human: 1300 yards Animal: 900 yards | Human: 2000 yards Animal: 1500 yards |
| Display Resolution | 800 x 480 pixels | 1280 x 960 pixels |
| Runtime Per Charge | 6 hours | 4 hours |
| MSX IR/Visible Overlay | No | Yes |
| Size | 5.4” x 3.1” x 3.0” | 5.4” x 3.1” x 3.0” |
| Weight | 0.88 lbs | 0.88 lbs |
| Storage | Up to 100 image/video files | Up to 100 image/video files |
| Video Recording Format | H.264 MP4 | H.264 MP4 |
As members of FLIR’s Scout series of thermal cameras, the TK and TKx share some core features:
So in terms of core thermal capabilities and construction, the Scout TK and TKx are quite comparable. Where they really differ is in three key areas: resolution, detection range, and lenses.
The Scout TK features 336 × 256 pixel IR resolution compared to 640 × 512 pixels in the TKx. So with 4x more pixels, the TKx can render thermal images with a staggering 4x more detail and clarity. This allows it to identify more subtle heat signatures at further distances.
For casual observation this may not matter much. But for hunters, search and rescue, and surveillance uses, the added resolution can positively impact performance.
Thanks again to its superior Boson core, the TKx has a considerably longer detection range than the TK:
So the TKx enables sightings of humans and animals around 50% further away – a huge plus for hunting or search operations. Although environmental conditions can impact actual performance in real-world use.
Both models include a 19 mm lens that provides a 24° × 18° field of view. But the TKx takes things further by also including a 42 mm macro lens for inspection uses:
So if you think you’ll often use the monocular for inspections or need to ID details, the macro lens is a great benefit of choosing the TKx.
Operating time per charge is a bit lower on the TKx, while both units charge via USB-C:
And since these are monoculars, only one eye sees the OLED display. But the TKx display is higher resolution to take full advantage of its thermal improvements:
For actual usability in the field, most users find both displays perfectly suitable once calibrated to ambient lighting. But again, the TKx edges ahead in technical specs.
Watch this review video of FLIR Scout TK!
Dimension and weight wise, the Scout TK and TKx are almost identical. And both include the same storage, environmental protection, and additional capabilities like image/video recording:
One final difference is the MSX enhancement in the TKx model. This overlays a visual light image onto the thermal, combining IR details with daytime clarity. It can improve recognition compared to thermal alone.
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FLIR refers to Forward Looking Infrared, which is the technology used in thermal imaging devices. So FLIR and thermal imaging refer to the same thing – creating visual images based on heat emission rather than visible light.
The FLIR Scout TKx is the best thermal monocular if budget allows, thanks to its 640×512 IR resolution, 2000 yard detection range, extra macro lens, and MSX overlay. The Scout TK provides good performance for a lower price point. Other top options are the Pulsar Quantum and Armasight Zeus.
Both the Scout TK and TKx feature a 30 Hz thermal imaging refresh rate. This means their infrared cameras update the thermal image 30 times per second, ensuring smooth, lag-free viewing.
The Scout TK comes equipped with a 19 mm lens, which provides a 24° x 18° field of view. This is a good wide angle FOV for scanning environments. The TKx adds a 42 mm macro lens allowing 2-4x magnification for inspections.
Also Read: Differences Between Ruko F11 Gim And Ruko F11 Gim2.
For critical use cases like hunting, search and rescue, and tactical applications, the FLIR Scout TKx represents the best value thermal monocular thanks to its high 640×512 resolution, 2000 yard detection range, and bonus macro lens. It simply outperforms the Scout TK across the board.
That said, more casual users who don’t need longest distance sightings or macro inspection capabilities can save money with the Scout TK. It still provides good 336×256 resolution and comes WiFi enabled for mobile connectivity.
Either way you get excellent FLIR Boson core technology engineered for ruggedness and accuracy in harsh conditions. So compare specs carefully to your needs and budget to determine if the TK or TKx better fits the bill.
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