by; Sean Finney, Pivotal Home Inspection
We only recommend products we use and believe in, whether you want to become a home inspector or just have the same safe, quality professional tools. People ask us all the time what we use and...here's what we use! This page contains affiliate links. If you purchase after clicking a link, we may receive a commission. We only put it up here if we honestly love it and no, it is at no extra cost to you :)
Thermal cameras have revolutionized the home inspection industry, allowing inspectors to see and detect heat patterns invisible to the naked eye, thus helping us to avoid potentially dangerous situations like unstable attics. Instead of using old, invasive technologies like boroscopes to see behind walls, infrared allows an inspector to complete a noninvasive inspection, which is better for the buyer and the seller. Inspectors used to have to buy bulky, hand-held infrared devices and those are great but now there is a choice. I use, and love, infrared cameras that plug directly into my smartphone. We are going to delve into the features, specifications, pros, and cons of three popular thermal cameras that I think are the best and that I use in my business that are compatible with Android devices: FLIR Edge Pro, Seek Compact Pro, and Prime Perfect IR202.
The FLIR Edge Pro is a versatile thermal camera designed for Android smartphones and tablets. If you are an Apple fan, it also runs on ios. Click here to check today’s price on Amazon. It boasts advanced features and high image quality, making it a reliable choice. Flir has a great reputation in the industry and it's products are consistently at the top of the leaderboard, the prices tend to follow accordingly.
Specifications:
Thermal Resolution: 160 x 120 pixels (19,200 pixels)
Temperature Range: -20°C to 120°C (-4°F to -248°F)— 400°C (32°F — 752°F)
Field of View (FOV): 45° x 34°
Thermal Sensitivity: <70 mK
Image Modes: Infrared, Visual, MSX
Compatibility: Android 11.0 and above
Connectivity: USB-C, Bluetooth to set up the peer-to-peer Wi-Fi network that the camera creates to connect to the mobile device
Pros:
Up to 90 minute of battery life on 1 charge
Wide temperature range suitable for various applications.
Robust construction ensures durability in rugged environments.
Easy connectivity with Android devices via USB-C or Bluetooth to set up the peer-to-peer Wi-Fi network that the camera creates to connect to the mobile device
Cons:
Slow wifi connection creates choppy visuals,
The field of view could be wider for certain applications.
Limited compatibility with specific Android versions.
The price point may be higher compared to some competitors.
Rating: 4.5/5
The Seek Compact Pro XR is a compact thermal camera that pairs with Android devices and is also compatible with iPhone. It gives the user portability and convenience without compromising performance. Again, check the price today on Amazon by clicking here, that may help you make your decision.
Specifications:
Sensor Resolution: 320 x 240 pixels
24-degree field of view detect targets up to 2,400 ft (750 m)
-40 to 626F Temperature Range
9Hz frame rate
76,800 temperature pixels for maximum image clarity and sensitivity
9.1 mm focal length lens with f/1.0 aperture for improved clarity
Battery-free design uses the power of your smartphone
Calibrate for reflective surfaces when accuracy is critical
Pros:
High thermal sensitivity captures even subtle electrical changes
Long detection range allows for a much better quality IR picture at a distance
User friendly app helps you customize your images with adjustable span and level and ten different color palettes
Super compact
Compatible with Android devices with USB-C power port
Cons:
Battery consumption is very high on this camera
This camera can easily overheat when used with certain smartphone models, especially when using for extended periods of time.
Real time video recording is not a feature on this particular model
Rating: 4/5
If you read the Home Inspector discussion boards, people definitely have their favorites between the Flir and the Seek. I think they are both great. Personally, I think the resolution on the Seek is better but for my purposes, the increased temperature range of the Flir works better for me. You can’t go wrong either way, it just depends on which of the features are more important to you and really just the feel of it.
Yup. Apple compatible, same thing as the others above. The Perfect Prime IR202 is a cost-effective thermal camera that provides smartphone users with thermal imaging capabilities. Prepare to have your mind blown when you check the Amazon price on this one right here. Very budget-friendly!
Specifications:
IR Image Resolution: 80 x 60 4800 pixels
Temperature Range: -40°C to 400°C (-40°F to 752°F)
Field of View (FOV): 44.2°(H), 34.5°(V)
Focus Distance: Fixed focus
Thermal Sensitivity: <150 mK
Image Modes: Thermal, Visual, Dual
Compatibility: Android 4.3 and above
Connectivity: USB C
Pros:
Affordable price point makes it accessible for budget-conscious users.
Easy to use with simple operation and intuitive interface.
Dual image mode allows users to see both thermal and visual images simultaneously.
Compatible with a wide range of Android devices running Android 4.3 and above.
Compact and portable design.
Cons:
Lower sensor resolution may result in less detailed images.
Limited temperature range suitable for certain applications.
Fixed focus may require adjustments for optimal image quality.
Rating: 4/5
Prime Perfect is the dark horse in the race. Honestly, this may be the infrared I grab the most. I love this camera. Stay with me here. This is the first camera that I bought so I have a sentimental attachment to it, you know how that goes, right? It sort of stays in my pocket. The price point was so exceptional, I take it out on stormy days or into sketchy places. It works for the everyday stuff, the everyday uses. The dual image mode is great, it fits flush against the phone.
In conclusion, all three thermal cameras - FLIR Edge Pro, Seek Compact Pro XR, and Prime Perfect IR202 - offer Android and ioS- users the ability to harness the power of thermal imaging. The FLIR Edge Pro excels in image quality and versatility, making it an excellent choice for professionals who demand high performance. The Seek Compact Pro XR provides portability and versatility without compromising on essential features. The Prime Perfect IR202 offers an entry-level option with a budget-friendly price tag. These are my three picks for 2023, you can’t go wrong choosing one or all three. Here are the Amazon links below if you missed them above:
As always, feel free to reach out!
Sean Finney
Pivotal Home Inspection
Florida Licensed Home Inspector
sean@pickpivotal.com