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Happy Customer Reviews
RO
Rob
Awesome scope
Awesome scope. Intuitive button layout and design, clear image. Choose your base mag carefully, 5x for me might be a little much for closer shots at night, but for daytime shooting and hunting, I like the extra magnification on the top end.
Thoroughly impressed. Shooting on my 350 legend. Not the highest priced option. Punching hogs and coyotes within 150 yards this makes it easy. battery life exceptional. Handles recoil with no problems. Loving it!
The thermnight line of scopes are the only ones of their kind on the market and capable of doing it all with a tremendous amount of features packed into one scope. I have the TNC225R and the TNC635R. The resolution on the 635 is amazing and has a wide field of view for scanning in thermal and customer service from DNT is top notch. I highly recommend and of the thermnight models.
Put the scope on immediately and could tell the difference. The glasses is clear the focus is extremely good. The center dot in the reticle is very very small, but that may have something to do with old eyes. Would definitely recommend.
Author: Nicholas C
Welcome! We at DNT Optics love to share our knowledge and our experiences in hopes they may help you. When it comes to seeing in the dark, many think that higher resolution is critical, but that is not always the case. In fact, you can be successful even with lower resolution systems. In the world of thermal, some people dismiss the entry level systems like 256 thermal devices. But we want you to know they can work and work well.
Yes, 256 thermal can absolutely work, but it is dependent on the activity you are pursuing. When hunting, think of how we normally hunt in the day time. We typically scan an area with our eyeballs first. Once our eye detects something of interest, we augment our natural vision with a tool that has magnification, like binoculars. If we see the game that we are pursuing, we then transition to our weapon and use our primary aiming device.
Higher resolution thermals can produce a nicer image, but there are other factors beyond pure resolution. Base magnification is something to take into account. If you compare 1x thermal devices like 640, 384, and 256, you'll see that at a certain point, there are diminishing returns. You can only see so far with said devices even if you spend more money. However, thermal excels at showing you a difference in temperature and since it does not rely on light like night vision, it can be used in absolute darkness. Thermals are very good at detecting heat, but being able to recognize, let alone positively identify, the object you are looking at requires you to get physically closer or use magnification (optical, not digital).
Remember, thermal devices are tools, and like other tools, they have their uses. A 256 resolution thermal can have its use in your tool box. A small 1x thermal scanner is easier to scan with at night than pointing your gun and moving it around all night just to look for potential game. 256 thermal monoculars are more affordable and they can help you scan an area to detect potential game quickly. Scan a field, see anything living? No? Now you can plan your next move. On the other hand, if a 256 thermal scanner shows you something of interest, then you need to decide what your next move is. Move closer or wait for it to come closer? Or deploy a higher magnification thermal or higher resolution thermal.
Our Hydra series of thermal scopes have an AI algorithm that we call Super Resolution. When you turn it on, the image is sharpened. For the entry level Hydra HS225, it enhances the image at any magnification, making a 256 sensor thermal image as clear as a 384 sensor. Higher resolution models like the HS325 or HS635 further benefit from Super Resolution when digitally zooming in. With Super Resolution, a 384 sensor can deliver clarity comparable to a 576. A 640 sensor can reach an impressive 960 at its 6x magnification. Depending on the size and distance of the object you are looking at, the Super Resolution might help you see it more clearly. This can help inform you on your next move. Do you continue to pursue or move on to another target?
Lower resolution thermals are not a substitute for higher resolution devices but they have their uses. They are usually more affordable and when utilized properly, they can absolutely help you on your hunt.
Start with the right tool for the job. Discover the Hydra series now.
It all started with a crunch.
While walking through quiet Marco Island, John Johnson heard something unsettling. Following the sound, he found a large green iguana devouring an owl egg. As the frantic owl parents screeched, John knew exactly what he was looking at—an invasive species.
Green iguanas aren't native to Florida. Since arriving in the 1960s via the pet trade and accidental escapes, they've thrived. With lifespans of up to 20 years, females capable of laying as many as 71 eggs a year, and no natural predators, their population has exploded.
The result? Widespread damage. Reaching up to 5.6 feet in length and weighing over 15 pounds, iguanas dig deep burrows that undermine sidewalks and seawalls. Their climbing habits lead to roof damage and power outages. On top of that, they carry Salmonella, posing health risks to people and pets.
Over the years, Florida's iguana problem has grown from a mere concern to a full-fledged crisis. Seeing the destruction firsthand, John knew it was time to act. As a lifelong hunter who started out with a BB gun as a kid in the Pacific Northwest, John had the experience and passion to take on the iguanas.
In 2023, he founded Down Goes Iguana, a company dedicated to removing these invasive creatures from Marco Island's shores. That year, he removed 253 iguanas. By 2024, the number soared to 730, with 56% of them being females. This means John prevented over 20,450 iguanas from hatching, as each female can lay about 50 eggs annually.
As a registered Florida State Wildlife Control Officer, John carries out humane, regulated, and highly precise iguana removals. His mission is to protect Florida's native species and restore the balance of nature. And he's not alone in this fight.
When DNT first learned about John, it wasn't just his impressive numbers that stood out, but his precision, principle, and purpose. He embodies the values our gear was designed for. So, we decided to support his efforts by equipping him with the ZULUS HD 5x20 LRF scope, a versatile digital day-and-night vision device built for real-world performance.
For John, the ZULUS HD quickly became essential. Mounted on his Brocock Atomic Carbine air rifle, it gave him the clarity and confidence for precise shots, even in challenging conditions. As he puts it, "The lightweight ZULUS is a game-changer when I have to hand-hold."
Beyond portability, the ZULUS packs a range of features. John says, "It records video of everything you see in the scope and if you put on your best Marlin Perkins voice, you can record the exact moment live as it happens. It is great for some reticle screen grabs like you see here. This scope also features an in-scope rangefinder and infrared for night vision hunting."
By the end of June 2025, John had removed 620 iguanas in just six months—hundreds more than the same time the previous year.
Accuracy is critical for John, whose typical shooting range is between 15 and 50 yards. He explains, "Accuracy is also improtant for iguanas. Body shots rarely stop them, even head shots are often absorbed and they keep going. You pretty much must hit a dime spot in order to bring them down with a single shot." Iguanas are expert hiders. When perched in trees, finding them is only half the battle. Branches deflect pellets, and their tough, scaly skin makes them hard to kill. If the first shot misses, the iguana usually escapes into the brush, water, or worse—into a burrow to breed again.
Thanks to the ZULUS HD's exceptional clarity, John captures every detail, ensuring each shot is as accurate as possible. The built-in rangefinder offers real-time distance feedback, allowing for precise drop compensation. John also loves the video recording feature, which helps him review his shots to refine his technique, document his hunts, or ensure he complies with state guidelines.
Still, one of the biggest challenges remains locating iguanas in dense foliage. Recently, the DNT ThermNight caught John's attention. With advanced thermal imaging, it could help him spot iguanas more effectively in dense foliage or low-light conditions, whether in trees or on the ground. It could be the tool he needs to track these elusive creatures more efficiently.
John's mission is far from over—and neither is ours. As he strives to keep Florida's ecosystem in check, DNT is right there with the right gear.
Unlock your potential with the ZULUS HD and ThermNight series.
When the Hydra thermal scope launched with its 3-in-1 design, many were skeptical. Could one thermal imaging device really deliver handheld, standalone, and clip-on performance without breaking the bank? Turns out, it can. But don't just take our word for it. Hear what real users have to say.
Handheld Mode: Clear Views, Easy Portability
Many users appreciate the Hydra scopes' portability and clarity. Jerry Mitchell shares his satisfaction with HS635, "Purchased this to use as a handheld to pair with my ZULUS LRF. Makes for a great combo and I don't have to be on my gun all evening. The clarity and functionality is really fantastic."
Likewise, Derek Tipple highlights HS635's compactness: "Mostly as a handheld monocular, it's worked great. It's lightweight and compact without the mount... I've observed deer out to 900 yards… Clarity is as advertised."
The HS325 model also stands out for handheld use. Ezra Miller notes, "By far the best entry level thermal I've ever tried out. Does phenomenal in all three roles of handheld, clip-on, and standalone scope!" L.M. adds, "I use my HS325 as a spotter for hunting coyotes. Works great and has excellent clarity. Using the Hydra as a spotter and the ZULUS to shoot is a deadly combination."
HS225 users also appreciate its handheld convenience. Rolyn Smith praises, "Fits in my hand great for using it as a handheld." Jon Janica adds, "Much better than I expected, excellent clarity. Bought this to use as a spotting device... Has better clarity than my thermal that cost $3000.00."
Standalone Scope: Effortless Precision, Exceptional Value
Mounted on rifles as standalone scopes, Hydra devices continue to impress. After trying HS635 in the field, Brian Heard recommends, "Excellent performance and an outstanding value considering the price point. Note I have not used it in clip-on mode, only as a handheld spotter and a thermal scope. Zeroing was literally a one shot process."
For those comparing Hydra to its competitors, Spencer Beal states, "My basic HS635 package had everything needed to get up and running and mounted on my 6.8 SPC. The last optic I purchased five years ago was for $5,000. The HS635 is leaps and bounds better for 1/2 the price."
The HS325 model also shines in standalone mode. Kyle Whisker remarks, "I'm very impressed at the value and versatility. I have it sighted in as an optic for one rifle and as a clip-on for another. It's also very handy to use as a scanner. Image quality is impressive for 384."
Marcus Harrison, an HS225 user, shares the same feeling, saying, "This is a great optic as a standalone and paired with my ZULUS 3-12. I could not be more happy with it."
Clip-On Mode: Smooth Mounting, Seamless Performance
One of Hydra's biggest strengths is its ability to convert into a clip-on, without adding weight or disrupting zero.
Regarding HS635, J.L. appreciates the mode-switching convenience. He comments, "...Most importantly was the option for me to use it as a clip-on (my preferred use)... The fact you can save different "zeros" for different set ups is excellent, and they understand the difference between zero for a clip-on and zero for use as a scope, this is extremely important!"
HS325 also excels in clip-on mode. Brady Nunn compliments, "Really great optic, pairs extremely well with my LPVO set up… smooth transition between color schemes, easy to set up and run on the app…" Veteran user TEM also praises its military-level quality and versatility, saying, "I've used thermals for the last 30 years and the Hydra HS325 is comparable in quality to the military thermals but multi-functional. I'm currently using it in the forward position of my optics. Clear and concise picture. Great thermal."
HS225 proves just as capable in clip-on mode. Mikel Estes finds it useful for hunting, saying, "Scope works well. Easy to zero and use as a clip-on addition for my LPVO while hog hunting."
Real-World Ready: Unleash the Power of Hydra 3-in-1
All these prove that the Hydra 3-in-1 concept is not hype, but truly works. From hunters to military veterans, users value Hydra's clear, sharp imaging and effortless portability, combined with reliable accuracy and quick, easy mounting. Its versatile design fits handheld, standalone, and clip-on roles perfectly, delivering dependable performance and convenience in any situation.
Hydra HS635 Imaging Modes
Ready to elevate your thermal game? Explore the Hydra series today and see the difference for yourself.
Since its launch, the Hydra series has redefined what's possible in thermal optics. Its innovative 3-in-1 multi-function design adapts to any situation: as a standalone thermal scope, a clip-on for daytime optics, or a handheld monocular.
The Hydra line includes three models: HS225, HS325, and HS635. We'll highlight their shared features and key differences to match you with the right one.
Key Features Shared by All Hydra Models
1.CNC-Machined Aircraft-Grade Aluminum Body
Crafted from a single block of 6061 aircraft-grade aluminum, the Hydra series is highly durable and built to withstand tough field conditions.
2.High-End Thermal Sensor + AI Super Resolution Algorithm
Equipped with a 12μm uncooled infrared sensor boasting a 50fps frame rate, the scopes capture ultra-clear thermal images. The DNT's proprietary Super Resolution algorithm ensures that zoomed-in images remain sharp, providing exceptional clarity at long distances.
*With our Super Resolution algorithm, a 256-sensor image looks as clear as a standard 384.
*Our Super Resolution algorithm makes digital zoom clearer and sharper than you've ever seen.
3.High-Resolution Micro-OLED Display
Each model features a crisp 1024×768 micro-OLED display, providing vivid, clear images and a comfortable viewing experience.
4.Highly Forgiving Eye Box
With a generous 2.5" (65 mm) eye relief and a wide eye box, users enjoy comfortable viewing without black edges or loss of field of view.
5.Compatibility with LPVO and Prism Optics
Hydra scopes clip on effortlessly to Low Power Variable Optics (LPVO) and prism scopes, allowing quick switching between thermal and daytime views.
6.Lightweight & Ergonomic
Weighing only 13.7 oz (389 g) at the heaviest, these scopes offer balanced ergonomics and portability, ensuring fatigue-free handling.
7.Interchangeable 18650 Battery Power
Powered by recharable flat-top 18650 batteries, providing stable and long-lasting runtimes. Plus, all models support 5V USB Type C external power supply for extended use.
8.32GB Built-in Storage
Each model comes with 32GB of built-in storage, allowing you to save footage, images, and data without needing additional memory cards.
9.IP67 Waterproof & Recoil Resistant
Built for harsh environments with IP67 waterproofing and recoil resistance up to .50 BMG / 800Gs, all models are ready for demanding conditions.
10.DNT Optics App Integration
With the dedicated DNT Optics app, you can enjoy live streaming, media sharing, and other smart features, enhancing your shooting and scouting experience.
Differences Between HS225, HS325, and HS635
In the model names, HS225, HS325, and HS635, the first digits indicate the resolution, while the last two digits represent the focal length of Objective Lens.
What These Specs Mean:
1.Resolution:
HS225 (256×192): Ideal for general, close-range use, where high detail isn't as critical.
HS325 (384×288): A balanced option, offering improved clarity for mid-range applications.
HS635 (640×512): Best for long-range use, providing exceptional detail for distant targets.
2.NETD (Noise Equivalent Temperature Difference):
HS225 (≤25mk): Standard thermal sensitivity for general use.
HS325 & HS635 (≤18mk): Higher sensitivity, detecting smaller temperature differences for clearer thermal images.
3.Focal Length of Objective Lens:
HS225 & HS325 (25mm): Ideal for close to medium-range observations.
HS635 (35mm): Wider field of view, suited for long-range detection.
4.Base Magnification & Digital Zoom:
HS225: The 3x base magnification is perfect for short to mid-range observations, with digital zoom up to 12x for added versatility.
HS325: A 2x base magnification provides a wider field of view, and digital zoom up to 8x allows for detailed observations at medium-range distances.
HS635: The 1.5x base magnification pairs well with long-focus optics, with digital zoom up to 6x to bring distant targets into sharp focus, ideal for professional-grade, long-range use.
5.Weight & Operating Time:
HS225: Weighing just 13.1 oz with 5.5 hours of battery life, it's perfect for portability. When including the mount, battery, and eye cup, its total weight is approximately 19.6 oz.
HS325: Offering balanced performance at 13.4 oz and 4.5 hours of battery life. With the mount, battery, and eye cup, the overall weight comes to about 19.9 oz.
HS635: Slightly heavier at 13.7 oz, with 4 hours of battery life, ideal for long-range use. Including the mount, battery, and eye cup, the total weight is roughly 20.2 oz.
Pricing and Discounts
Now that you've explored the key features and differences, we're confident you've found the perfect model for your needs. Here's some good news for you: use the code SAVE10 at checkout to enjoy an exclusive 10% discount on any Hydra model!
Still Not Sure Which Hydra Model to Choose?
Try our Product Finder for a personalized recommendation or contact our team (info@dntoptics.com) for expert advice.
Explore the Hydra series now. Your perfect match scope awaits you!
Author: Nicholas C
Whether you are a customer first setting up your DNT Optics digital scope or someone who is curious how our One-Shot Zero works, we will go into detail how you can perform a One-Shot Zero so you can save time and ammo allowing you to focus on other matters like preparing for your hunt.
What Is One-Shot Zero?
The DNT Optics One-Shot Zero is a tool in our digital scopes to help you zero the reticle for your weapon of choice. It does not matter if you are using an airgun, firearm or a crossbow. The One-Shot Zero is performed the same. First let us manage your expectations. The One-Shot Zero is fast but may require more than a single shot depending on your weapon and projectile of choice. Under ideal scenarios you can zero your reticle with a single shot fired. But let us be realistic, it might take a couple more. However here are some tips to help set you up for success.
Preparation Tips Before Zeroing
Make sure your DNT Optics scope is installed correctly and the screws are properly torqued. When you are ready to zero your DNT Optics digital scope of choice, go to a range where you can shoot safely. Turn on your DNT Optics scope and make sure you are at base magnification. This will make it easier to see your projectile impact and later we will zoom in to dial in the reticle position.
Zeroing with ZULUS V1
We will start with the ZULUS V1. Once you are setup, press the menu button and hold it down to enter the settings menu. Press the RIGHT button to move over to “Zero Reticle”. Press the up (video record) button to go into that setting. Once you are in the ZULUS V1 Zero Reticle menu, you will see a white bar at the bottom of the screen.
ZULUS V1 Zero Reticle Menu
From left to right: Current magnification level (you cannot adjust this here), Zero Profile, X position, Y position, Reticle Style, Reticle Color.
A letter will be highlighted in teal, this is the zero profile you are currently adjusting. You can change the zero profile from A to Z. You can store up to 26 different zero profiles. Pushing the LEFT or RIGHT buttons will cycle through the different options you can adjust.
While aiming your scope, shoot at something that will allow you to see your projectile’s impact. Some people like to shoot at a dirt backstop to make it easier to see the projectile’s impact. This is helpful if your shot is off paper. If you can see where the projectile impacted then aim the scope back to your original point of aim. While carefully holding the gun, as steady as possible, lightly press the POWER button on the ZULUS V1. This will freeze the image in the scope. Once the image is frozen, you can relax and you do not have to hold your gun steady anymore. While looking into the ZULUS V1, move over to the X=0 setting. Push the up or down arrow to adjust the X value. Pressing UP will increase the value moving the reticle to the right while pressing DOWN will decrease it and move the reticle to the left. Move the reticle over to where your projectile impact was. Now press the RIGHT button to move over to the next adjustment and you can adjust the Y value. Pressing the UP button will move the reticle up increasing the Y value and pressing the DOWN button will lower the reticle as well as the Y value. Pressing and holding the UP or DOWN buttons will move the reticle faster.
Once your reticle is where your projectile had landed, you can lightly press the POWER button once more to unfreeze the image. Take another shot to confirm your zero. If you want to dial in the reticle position, long press the LEFT key to save and exit. If you long press the RIGHT key, you will exit without saving. Exit out of the settings menu entirely and zoom in with the scroll wheel. Now go back into the settings menu and then the Zero Reticle menu. Here you can take another shot at full magnification to see how well you zeroed your reticle. If you need to readjust the reticle position, then repeat the steps above. You don’t have to shoot at dirt anymore. Depending on your zero distance, you may be able to see impact on paper.
Zeroing with TNC225R
The ThermNight TNC225R settings menu is a bit different from the ZULUS V1. It is a vertical list that you cycle through with the UP and DOWN buttons. Press RIGHT to enter that setting. The “Zeroing” menu is similar to the ZULUS V1 but with the option to switch between digital and thermal channels.
TNC225R Zeroing Menu
Just like the ZULUS V1, pressing RIGHT or LEFT will cycle through the different Zeroing menu options in the TNC225R. Pressing UP or DOWN will change the highlighted option. Unlike the ZULUS V1, the TNC225R only has five zero profiles, A to E. We recommend zeroing the digital reticle first. Just like the ZULUS V1, start at base magnification and move the reticle to your point of impact. Hold the RIGHT button to save and exit. Holding the LEFT button will exit without saving. Once you save and exit, a window will pop up asking if you want to switch to another mode.
TNC225R Pop-up Window
CANCEL will be highlighted. Press UP to switch to OK. Once OK is highlighted, press DOWN to go back to CANCEL. Press RIGHT to choose either option. Pressing LEFT will exit this screen. Pressing LEFT again will exit the settings menu completely. If you want to continue to zero the thermal reticle, switch back to DIGITAL if you are still in the Zeroing menu. If you exited the Zeroing menu, go back in. Now point the reticle at something obvious that you can see in THERMAL. The corner of your target stand is a good example. While holding your scope steady, quickly press the POWER button to freeze the image. Now highlight DIGITAL and press UP or DOWN to switch to THERMAL. The image will still be frozen and now you just need to move the X and Y of the thermal reticle to the same corner your digital reticle was aimed at. Once zeroed, unfreeze by pressing the POWER button quickly and take another shot to confirm your zero.
Zeroing with Hydra, TNC335R, TNC635R, or ZULUS V2
Zeroing our newer digital scopes like the Hydra, TNC335R, TNC635R or ZULUS V2 is even easier with their new settings menu.
ZULUS V2 Menu
The new settings menu is an evolution of the TNC225R menu system and was designed to be more intuitive. Press up or down to cycle through the options. Press RIGHT to go into the desired setting of your choice. Once you are in a setting, press UP and DOWN to cycle through the options and press RIGHT to choose an option. Press LEFT to go back and exit the option you are in. Keep pressing LEFT to exit the settings menu.
ZULUS V2 Zeroing Menu
In the Zeroing option you will see a box with 6 options. (Post photo of this menu). You start off highlighting the Zero Profile box in yellow. Pressing RIGHT will change this option, you have ten zero profiles to choose from. Press DOWN to highlight the Freeze option. You can lightly press the POWER button to freeze the image as well. Move down to the X and Y numbers to alter them. Pressing RIGHT increases their respective values, while pressing LEFT will decrease them. Move down to SAVE and press RIGHT to save and exit. Or move down to EXIT to exit without saving.
Just like the TNC225R, the TNC335R and TNC635R has the option to switch from digital to thermal in the Zeroing Menu. If you see the pop up window asking to change modes, press up to choose OK. Pressing RIGHT will choose the highlighted option. Pressing LEFT will not exit this window.
Final Tips
When you are zeroing your reticles, write down the X and Y values and save that somewhere for future reference. If your point of impact changes and your DNT Optics scope is no longer zeroed make sure you are on the same Zero Profile and at the same time you can check the X and Y values to see if they have somehow changed. In some cases, firmware updates can wipe out the zero profiles. Knowing what the numbers were will help you to re-zero your reticle.
If you need any help or have questions about our One-Shot Zero process, reach out to our customer service department (info@dntoptics.com). Our tech support are more than happy to assist over the phone or email.
We hope this guide has been helpful for you and will get you zeroed quickly so you can go out and enjoy using your DNT Optics scope.
Originally published by Robbie and Adrian at Review This Thing, this article offers a detailed analysis of the DNT Hydra HS225. We're excited to share their insights.
If you're in the market for a thermal optic but don't want to drop upwards of $2,000–$5,000, you've probably wondered if any budget-friendly options are worth looking at. In this review, we're breaking down the DNT Hydra HS225 — a thermal scope priced around $900, making it one of the most affordable in its class. But does it perform above its price tag? Let's find out.
Key Features and Specs
The Hydra HS225 is one of the smallest and lightest thermals we tested in our recent comparison, weighing 1 pound. That compact design makes it incredibly versatile — ready for you to use it as:
A standalone rifle scope
A clip-on for your LPVO
Or a handheld thermal monocular
It features a 12-micron pixel pitch with a <25mK NETD and a sensor resolution of 256×192. We've always said that 384×288 is the minimum you should aim for if you want a good image, but according to DNT, their proprietary AI algorithm enhances the 256-image to look like a 384-image.
Robbie at 100 yards with AI Image Enhancement on
That image held its own compared to the similarly priced thermal scope with a 384 resolution. With their image enhancement, the Hydra's clarity even looked slightly better, in our opinion. However, remember that the image enhancement setting can reduce your total battery life.
Power and Battery Life
Rechargeable 18650 flat-top batteries power the Hydra HS225 for close to 5.5 hours
The HS225 utilizes rechargeable 18650 flat-top batteries, which provide approximately 5.5 hours of runtime per battery. It comes with two batteries and a charger. If you need extended runtime in the field, you can also power it via USB-C.
Recording and Storage
Like most thermals these days, the Hydra HS225 lets you record video. It has 32GB of internal storage, so you won't have to remember an SD card — not that we've ever forgotten one… okay, maybe once.
If you're a Mac user, note that you can't transfer files directly. You'll need to do it through the DNT app. Speaking of their app, it works excellent for live viewing on your phone and transferring files, but unfortunately, you can't control scope settings or record from it.
Mounting and Controls
Mounting is easy with torque specs printed on the included mount
Mounting is simple, with four screws and an included clamp-style mount for your Picatinny rail. We've seen people mount it to a magnifier pivot mount for quick, clip-on use, although we haven't tested that ourselves.
Controls are easily placed right on top
Controls for the Hydra are easily found right on top:
Power
Zoom In
Menu
Shutter (for recording)
The diopter adjustment, focus ring, and protective lens cap are standard equipment. The focus ring placement is out on the objective end—not our favorite placement, but it works.
Magnification and Field of View
The base magnification is 3x, which is higher than some of the other thermals we tested. A lower base magnification gives you a wider field of view for close-in scanning. The Hydra zooms up to 12x, though like most digital thermals, the image clarity decreases as you zoom in.
Base magnification at 3.0 on left, Full zoom at 12.0 on right
The Hydra's AI image enhancement helps keep it a touch clearer than the competition, but it still gets pixelated the further you zoom.
Color Palettes and Reticles
You get four color palettes:
White Hot
Black Hot
Red Hot
Iron Hot
Four Different Color Paletes available on the DNT Hydra HS225
It's not as many as other models, but those four should cover most of your needs for hunting or scanning situations.
You can also choose from 8 reticle options, easily set your zero point getting the rifle sighted in, and choose if you want to use the Picture-in-Picture (PIP) mode. A cool feature is that you can move the PIP window wherever you want on the screen, but we usually prefer dead center at the top.
Durability and Waterproof Rating
The Hydra HS225 is rated IP67, which means it's waterproof against heavy rain and fully protected from dust. It's also rated to handle recoil up to a .50 BMG, so you don't have to baby this thing.
DNT App
The DNT app allows you to stream your scope's view to your phone, which is particularly useful when scanning a field for hogs or coyotes. However, as mentioned, you can't control any settings or recording from the app. Most competitors let you adjust at least a few things through their apps, so hopefully, DNT will add that capability in future updates.
Clarity at Distance
Deer at 500 yards were easy to detect, not as easy to quickly identify at that range
While we could easily detect an animal's heat signature out to 500 yards, quickly identifying that animal proved to be much more difficult. As you probably already know, if you're planning on shooting an animal, you better be able to correctly identify that animal before pulling the trigger.
Based on our testing, it has been easy to identify targets at least 200 yards away. It was also easy to pick up a human heat signature at 400 yards, but identifying a specific animal could become much more difficult past that distance.
Sighting In
Getting the Hydra HS225 zeroed was as simple as chasing the bullet holes. The hardest part of sighting in was finding the best mounting position on my Smith & Wesson M&P 22. Once it was where I wanted it, the shooting commenced.
After 11 shots, the DNT Hydra HS225 was zeroed
I used a paper target and taped on a hand warmer to help with the heat signature. Of course, that worked great, and after three shots, I made my first adjustments. The freeze frame feature is always worth it on digital scopes because it allows for easy maneuvering of the crosshairs without requiring the shooter to keep the rifle completely still. Once I froze the frame, I adjusted the X and Y axis coordinates to coincide with the location where the bullets were grouped and made sure to save them.
Then, I completed the same process until the rifle was zeroed at the desired distance. You can see the results above.
With 26 different zero profiles, it should be easy to set up distance profiles or even switch between those profiles for other guns. I initially zeroed it while using a 22LR at 30 yards, and my thoughts would be to use another zero profile for a further distance, possibly out to 50 and then 100 yards.
Upgraded Features
No review of the Hydra HS225 would be complete without mentioning its more advanced but slightly more expensive siblings. We haven't tested those yet, but you never know what might be coming up soon!
The Hydra HS325 features a 384×288 resolution and is designed to deliver the next step up in quality. Once again, their AI image enhancement further improves the 384x288 picture to help you better identify animals. And this one comes with a lower base magnification. Of course, with that increase in quality, you can expect to see a price increase. The HS325 retails for $1,395 (after 10% off with code: SAVE10) as of the time of writing.
Continuing up the image quality ladder, we find the Hydra HS635. It has a 640×512 resolution with that same AI image enhancement that should produce more defined images still without breaking the bank. In comparison to many other 640-resolution thermals, the price tag of $2,295 (after 10% off with code: SAVE10) is lower than you'd expect. Once again, we haven't tested these, so I can't speak to the image quality. But I would expect to see the quality of images increase as the price increases.
Pros & Cons
Pros
Affordable price point
AI image enhancement noticeably improves clarity
Lightweight and versatile
Solid battery life with less expensive replacement batteries
32GB internal storage
IP67 waterproof rating
Cons
256x192 resolution isn't as sharp as higher-end models
Focus ring placement isn't ideal
The app lacks control functions
Limited to 4 color palettes
Should I Buy This Thing?
Verdict: "Better Than It Has Any Right To Be"
For around $900 (after 10% off with code: SAVE10), the DNT Hydra HS225 offers surprising performance for the money. The AI image enhancement works better than we expected. It's lightweight, has solid battery life, and stands out because it can be used as a scope, clip-on, or handheld.
The versatility in use and quality of images makes the Hydra HS225 one to consider
DNT offers higher-end models for those seeking high-resolution images. Still, the Hydra HS225 should be on your shortlist for budget-conscious hunters or land managers who require a dependable thermal without breaking the bank.
Keep in mind, if you're wanting the clearest picture that money can buy, this probably isn't the scope you're wanting. For one of those, make sure to check out our video below.
The Hydra HS225 is one of those rare budget optics that punches above its weight class. No, it's not perfect — but for $900, it's an absolute contender. If you're shopping on a budget, consider this scope as a viable option.
Adrian Jessen (@Review This Thing)
Learn More about Hydra: Hydra - 3 in 1 Multi-Function Thermal – DNT Optics Store
