NocPix QUEST S50R Thermal Imaging Binoculars with LRF

The defining feature of the QUEST S50R is its 1280×1024, 12μm thermal sensor. This provides 1,310,720 individual thermal pixels – four times the pixel count of a 640×512 sensor.

The additional resolution gives the imaging system substantially more thermal information to work with, allowing the S50R to provide a very wide native field of view while still retaining fine detail.

This becomes particularly valuable as digital magnification is increased. Because the original image contains far more thermal pixels, more useful detail can be retained compared with lower-resolution sensors when zooming into smaller areas of the scene.

The sensor is paired with ≤15mK NETD thermal sensitivity, helping reveal subtle temperature differences in difficult or low-contrast conditions.

The S50R starts at just 2× magnification and provides a 17.5° × 14° field of view, equivalent to approximately 30 × 24 metres at 100 metres.

This is exceptionally wide for a 50mm thermal binocular and is one of the major advantages made possible by the high-resolution 1280×1024 sensor.

A wider field of view allows much more ground to remain visible at once, making it easier to locate heat sources quickly, follow moving animals and systematically scan larger areas.

Unlike a conventional long-lens thermal device where increased reach often comes at the expense of a narrow image, the S50R combines a 50mm objective with unusually broad visual coverage.

The S50R combines its flagship sensor with a 50mm F1.1 germanium objective lens and a manufacturer-stated detection range of up to approximately 2,600 metres.

This combination gives the S50R substantial long-range capability while retaining the broad 2× native view that makes it so effective for scanning.

Detection range refers to the ability to detect the presence of a suitably sized heat source under favourable conditions. The distance at which fine identification is possible will normally be shorter and will depend on the target, weather conditions and surrounding environment.

The QUEST S50R incorporates a concealed laser rangefinder with a manufacturer-stated ranging capability of up to 1,000 metres.

This allows distance information to be obtained directly through the binocular without interrupting observation to use a separate rangefinder.

The LRF is incorporated into the body rather than sitting in a prominent external module, allowing the QUEST to retain its streamlined conventional binocular shape.

The move from the H50R to the S50R is a major sensor upgrade rather than simply a small increase in specification.

The H50R uses a 640×512 sensor containing 327,680 thermal pixels. The S50R uses a 1280×1024 sensor containing 1,310,720 thermal pixels – four times as many.

Both use 50mm F1.1 objectives and ≤15mK thermal sensitivity, but their viewing characteristics are dramatically different.

The H50R gives a tighter 4× native view and can therefore feel naturally closer to distant subjects immediately.

The S50R takes the opposite approach. It uses the additional sensor resolution to provide twice the horizontal and vertical field coverage at 100 metres while retaining far more image information.

Our view: if you specifically favour a tighter, higher-magnification native image, the H50R remains an excellent option. If maximum image quality, wide-area scanning and sensor resolution are the priority, the S50R is the clear upgrade.

H35R: the versatile all-round option. Its 640×512 sensor and 35mm lens give a useful balance between magnification and field of view.

H50R: the distance-focused 640×512 model, using 4× base magnification and a tighter field of view.

S50R: the flagship. Its 1280×1024 sensor allows the widest native image of the three while retaining the greatest amount of thermal information.

The S50R is designed for users who want the highest thermal sensor resolution available within the QUEST family rather than simply the greatest native magnification.

Its defining advantage is the ability to combine a 50mm objective with a very wide 2× native image. This gives the user exceptional situational awareness while retaining enough sensor resolution to preserve fine detail.

For users who regularly spend long periods actively scanning large areas, this combination of resolution and field of view is particularly valuable.

The H35R and H50R remain excellent 640×512 alternatives, but neither can provide the same combination of thermal pixel count and native visual coverage as the S50R.

The S50R uses a 0.72-inch, 1920 × 1200 AMOLED viewing system designed for comfortable prolonged observation.

It provides 25mm eye relief, a 10mm exit pupil and ±5D diopter adjustment, helping accommodate different users and reduce fatigue during longer sessions.

The traditional binocular format allows both eyes to be used rather than repeatedly viewing a display with one eye, which can make extended scanning feel more natural.

The QUEST S50R combines its high-resolution detector with NocPix R+ image processing and Electronic Image Stabilisation.

R+ processing is designed to optimise thermal detail and image clarity, while EIS helps reduce the effect of natural hand movement during handheld observation.

Image stabilisation becomes particularly useful as magnification is increased, where small movements of the binocular would otherwise become more obvious in the viewed image.

The S50R includes 64GB of internal storage for capturing observations directly on the device.

It supports photo, video and audio recording, allowing important observations to be saved without requiring a separate external recorder.

Wireless app connectivity also allows compatible mobile devices to interact with the binocular for supported viewing and media functions.

The QUEST S50R uses a dual-battery system combining internal power with a replaceable rechargeable 18650 battery.

This arrangement allows the removable battery to be changed in the field while the internal power source helps maintain operation, reducing interruption during longer scanning sessions.

Current UK specifications state an operating time of approximately 5 hours for the S50R. Actual runtime can vary depending on temperature, screen settings, recording, wireless functions, LRF use and battery condition.

Two rechargeable 18650 batteries and an 18650 battery charger are included with the S50R.

The S50R uses the same traditional QUEST binocular layout with a refined full-rubber coating designed to provide a secure grip and additional protection during field use.

At approximately 750g, it remains relatively compact considering the large 1280×1024 thermal detector and dual-eye configuration.

The device carries an IP67 rating for protection against water and dust, making it suitable for demanding outdoor conditions.

• NocPix QUEST S50R Thermal Imaging Binoculars with LRF
• Portable carry bag
• 2 × 18650 rechargeable batteries
• 18650 battery charger
• Data cable
• Neck strap
• Lens cleaning cloth
• Quick-start guide
• Lens cap

The QUEST S50R is covered by the NocPix manufacturer's standard warranty.

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.

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

What sensor does the QUEST S50R use?
The S50R uses a flagship 1280×1024 thermal sensor with a 12μm pixel pitch and ≤15mK thermal sensitivity.

How much higher resolution is the S50R than the H50R?
The S50R contains 1,310,720 thermal pixels compared with 327,680 in the H50R's 640×512 sensor – four times as many thermal pixels.

What is the detection range of the S50R?
NocPix specifies a maximum detection range of approximately 2,600 metres.

Does the S50R have a laser rangefinder?
Yes. It has an integrated concealed laser rangefinder with a manufacturer-stated range of up to 1,000 metres.

Why does the S50R only start at 2× magnification?
The high-resolution 1280×1024 sensor allows NocPix to provide a much wider native image while retaining a very large amount of thermal detail. This gives the S50R a 30 × 24m field of view at 100m.

Is the S50R better than the H50R?
The S50R offers substantially higher sensor resolution and a much wider native field of view. The H50R starts at a higher 4× magnification and may still suit users who naturally prefer a tighter view at distance.

What batteries does the S50R use?
It uses the QUEST dual-battery system with internal power and a replaceable rechargeable 18650 battery.

Are batteries included?
Yes. Two rechargeable 18650 batteries are included.

Does the S50R include a charger?
Yes. An 18650 battery charger is included in the package.

How long does the S50R battery last?
Current UK specifications state approximately 5 hours operating time, although actual runtime varies with conditions and feature usage.

Does the S50R record video?
Yes. It supports photo, video and audio recording and has 64GB of internal storage.

Is the S50R waterproof?
It carries an IP67 rating for protection against water and dust.

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