The H35R and H50R share the same 640×512, 12μm thermal sensor, ≤15mK sensitivity and 60Hz refresh rate. The main difference is therefore not sensor quality – it is the optical system and the type of view each model provides.

The H35R uses a 35mm F0.9 objective and starts at 3× magnification. Its 12.5° × 10° field of view covers approximately 22 × 18 metres at 100 metres, allowing you to see considerably more of the surrounding area at once.

The H50R uses a longer 50mm F1.1 objective and starts at 4× magnification. Its field of view narrows to approximately 15 × 12 metres at 100 metres, but distant animals appear larger in the native image.

Our view: choose the H35R for the most versatile all-round thermal binocular. Choose the H50R if most of your observation takes place across large, open areas where greater native magnification is more useful than a wide field of view.

The move from the H50R to the S50R is much more significant than simply changing the lens or magnification. The H50R uses a 640×512 thermal sensor, whereas the S50R uses NocPix's flagship 1280×1024 sensor.

Doubling both dimensions gives the S50R four times the total number of thermal pixels. This provides substantially more image information and allows the S50R to deliver a very different viewing experience.

Despite both models using a 50mm F1.1 objective, the H50R starts at 4× with an 8.8° × 7° field of view, while the S50R starts at just 2× and provides an exceptional 17.5° × 14° view – approximately 30 × 24 metres at 100 metres.

The result is a thermal binocular capable of showing a much larger area at once while retaining very high image resolution. For users who want maximum thermal detail and a wide, immersive scanning image, the S50R is the flagship of the QUEST range.

The H35R and H50R both use 640×512 thermal sensors, providing 327,680 individual thermal pixels. The S50R's 1280×1024 sensor contains 1,310,720 thermal pixels – four times as many.

More sensor resolution allows more thermal information to be captured across the image. This is particularly valuable when using a wide field of view or increasing digital magnification, where a higher-resolution sensor has substantially more original image information available.

That does not make the 640×512 H-series models poor performers. 640×512 remains a high-resolution thermal format and, combined with ≤15mK sensitivity, provides excellent detail. The S50R is the step up for users who want the highest image quality available within the QUEST range.

Field of view is one of the most important specifications when choosing a thermal binocular because it determines how much ground you can see without moving the device.

At 100 metres, the H50R displays an area approximately 15 metres wide, the H35R approximately 22 metres wide and the S50R approximately 30 metres wide.

A wider view makes it easier to locate heat sources quickly, follow moving animals and systematically scan an area. A narrower field of view normally accompanies greater native magnification, making distant subjects appear larger.

This is why the H35R can actually be the better choice than the H50R for some users despite sitting below it in the range.

NETD measures how small a temperature difference the thermal imaging system can distinguish. Lower figures indicate greater thermal sensitivity.

All three QUEST models stocked by Bamfords use sensors rated at ≤15mK. This high level of sensitivity helps reveal subtle differences in temperature and preserve detail when the thermal contrast between an animal and its surroundings is relatively low.

This becomes particularly useful in difficult conditions such as damp weather, mist, vegetation or environments where the background temperature is relatively close to that of the subject.

The QUEST range operates at a 60Hz refresh rate, meaning the thermal image is refreshed up to 60 times per second. This produces smooth motion when scanning quickly or following moving animals.

NocPix also uses its R+ image processing alongside Electronic Image Stabilisation (EIS) to improve image clarity and stability while retaining fine thermal detail.

The QUEST range incorporates a concealed laser rangefinder with a manufacturer-stated ranging capability of up to 1,000 metres.

Integrating the rangefinder directly into the binocular provides an immediate distance measurement without requiring a separate handheld rangefinder, helping keep the observation process quick and uncomplicated.

QUEST uses a dual-battery arrangement combining an internal battery with a replaceable 18650 rechargeable battery.

The replaceable battery can be swapped when required, while the built-in power source is designed to maintain operation during the change. This is particularly useful during long observation sessions where relying entirely on a sealed internal battery could otherwise mean stopping to recharge the device.

The main advantage of QUEST over a conventional thermal monocular is viewing comfort. Instead of repeatedly observing a display with one eye, the traditional binocular arrangement allows both eyes to be used.

For quick checks, a compact thermal monocular can still be the more portable option. For prolonged scanning and observation, however, many users find the binocular format more natural and less tiring.

QUEST is therefore particularly attractive to users who spend significant periods actively scanning rather than simply using thermal for occasional detection.

QUEST uses a traditional binocular-style chassis with a full-rubber coating designed to provide a secure and comfortable grip in the field.

The range carries an IP67 rating for protection against water and dust, providing the durability expected from equipment intended for regular outdoor use in demanding conditions.

For most users, the H35R is the sweet spot. It combines the same 640×512 resolution and ≤15mK sensitivity as the H50R with a wider field of view that makes it extremely versatile across different types of ground.

The H50R makes sense when distance is the priority. Its higher native magnification is particularly useful across large fields and open ground where subjects are routinely observed further away.

The S50R is the premium choice. It is considerably more expensive, but the 1280×1024 sensor is a genuine hardware upgrade rather than simply an additional feature. If image quality is the main consideration, it is the strongest model in the QUEST range.

NocPix products are backed by a comprehensive manufacturer warranty, providing additional reassurance when purchasing a premium thermal imaging device.

Main device: 3-year warranty
Battery: 2-year warranty
Thermal detector: 10-year warranty

For products purchased through an authorised NocPix dealer, the warranty period begins from the purchase date shown on the original invoice.

The manufacturer's warranty covers qualifying failures caused by defects in materials, manufacturing or production under normal use and maintenance. Accidental damage, misuse, unauthorised modification or repair, and damage resulting from incorrect use are not covered by the standard warranty.

We recommend retaining your Bamfords proof of purchase as evidence of the original purchase date for any future warranty claim.

Do all NocPix QUEST models have a laser rangefinder?
Yes. The H35R, H50R and S50R stocked by Bamfords all feature an integrated laser rangefinder.

Which QUEST has the widest field of view?
The S50R. Its 17.5° × 14° field of view covers approximately 30 × 24 metres at 100 metres.

Which QUEST has the highest native magnification?
The H50R starts at 4×, compared with 3× for the H35R and 2× for the S50R.

Which QUEST has the highest-resolution sensor?
The S50R uses a 1280×1024 thermal sensor. The H35R and H50R both use 640×512 sensors.

Does the more expensive model always give more magnification?
No. The flagship S50R deliberately starts at a lower 2× magnification because its high-resolution sensor allows it to provide a much wider native field of view while retaining excellent image detail.

Are NocPix QUEST binoculars waterproof?
The QUEST range is IP67 rated for protection against water and dust.

What battery does NocPix QUEST use?
QUEST uses a dual-battery system consisting of an internal battery and a replaceable 18650 rechargeable battery.

How long is the NocPix warranty?
NocPix's current standard warranty policy provides 3 years of cover for the main device, 2 years for the battery and 10 years for the thermal detector, subject to the manufacturer's warranty terms.