Most Popular Thermal & Night Vision Scopes of 2025: Top 3 Picks

As we wrap up another year of innovation in the hunting industry, 2025 has delivered remarkable advances. Sensors are sharper, ballistic integration is smoother, and professional-grade performance is now more accessible than ever. After hundreds of hours in the field and rigorous testing across diverse environments, we are proud to present DNT Optics’ most popular scopes of 2025.

Best Multi-Function Thermal Scope of the Year: ThermNight TNC225R

When it comes to versatility in the field, the ThermNight TNC225R sets a new standard. A hunter praises it, “Solid and functional thermal for locating targets, night vision for identification and dispatch. Works well for daytime use as a full color system.”

What makes the TNC225R stand out is its all-in-one capability. Combining thermal imaging, digital night vision, a laser rangefinder, ballistic calculator, and IR illuminator, it allows hunters to handle multiple tasks without switching devices. The Picture-in-Picture feature is a game-changer, letting you view thermal and night vision simultaneously. With Thermal Zoom Lock, you can keep the lowest thermal magnification to spot a target while precisely aiming with night vision.

With its all-in-one design and advanced features, the TNC225R delivers unmatched versatility, making it the ideal companion for hunters in any scenario.

Best Value Day & Night Vision Scope of the Year: ZULUS ZHD520R-V2

The ZULUS ZHD520R-V2 is celebrated by hunters seeking professional-grade performance at a budget-friendly price. One user shares: “Amazing for the money. Sighting in is a breeze, night vision is great for being digital, different reticles are helpful between guns and crossbows!”

Equipped with a Sony Starvis 2 sensor, the ZHD520R-V2 delivers clear, crisp visuals for both day and night hunting. Its 5–20x digital zoom, laser rangefinder, ballistic calculator, and IR illuminator provide a complete targeting solution, while the generous 65 mm eye relief ensures comfortable use. Powered by a 21700 flat-top battery, it offers up to 10 hours of comfortable, continuous operation.

At just $699.99 (with code SAVE10), it delivers exceptional value, making it the go-to choice for hunters seeking professional-grade features at an accessible price.

Best Performance Thermal Scope of the Year: HYDRA HS635

For hunters who prioritize pure thermal performance, the HYDRA HS635 proves to be the top choice. One customer sums it up perfectly: "I did a ton of research and landed on the HYDRA 640 alone of the best budget and most versatile thermals. I love that I can go from handheld to optic to Ipvo clip on quickly."

The HYDRA series is built around a true three-in-one design, functioning seamlessly as a standalone thermal scope, a clip-on for LPVOs, or a handheld monocular. At the core of the HYDRA HS635 is a 640×512 thermal sensor with an industry-leading NETD of ≤18 mK, delivering exceptional detail and target separation even in challenging conditions. Enhanced by DNT's proprietary Image Super Resolution (ISR) technology, image clarity is further refined for more precise observation and identification.

Paired with a 35 mm objective lens, 1.5–6x digital zoom, and a wide 21.9 × 17.6 yd field of view at 100 yards, the HS635 is designed for hunters who demand top-tier thermal performance without compromise.

Final Thoughts: Which 2025 Scope Should You Buy?

Each of this year’s award winners shines in its own category, designed to meet different hunting needs. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the right scope:

• Choose the ThermNight TNC225R if you want an all-in-one solution for any time of day. [Shop ThermNight TNC225R]

• Choose the ZULUS ZHD520R-V2 if you want the best night vision performance for the value. [Shop ZULUS ZHD520R-V2]

• Choose the HYDRA HS635 if you need top-tier thermal detection and refined image quality. [Shop HYDRA HS635]

These are our top picks, but DNT Optics offers a full range of night vision and thermal scopes. Explore our product and comparison videos and find the scope that fits your hunting style best. New year. New gear. Discover your perfect match for 2026!