FLIR Scout TS24 vs ATN OTS XLT 160: Comparison

By: Jim Reddy | 04.04.2024, 11:42

Hey everyone, it's Jim from Gagadget. Today, I'm pitting two popular thermal imaging monoculars head-to-head: the FLIR Scout TS24 and the ATN OTS XLT 160. Both offer cutting-edge heat detection tech in rugged, hand-held packages built for hunters, explorers, and surveillance pros. But their differences in thermal resolution, magnification, and extra features make each better suited for specific budgets and use cases.

I've logged hours field testing the TS24 and OTS XLT 160, evaluating detection range, image quality, ergonomics, and real-world practicality. In this in-depth comparison, I'll share my first-hand findings to help you decide which thermal spotter best fits your needs. Let's dive in!

FLIR Scout TS24 vs ATN OTS XLT 160: Quick Comparison

If you're pressed for time, here are the key takeaways: The FLIR Scout TS24 and ATN OTS XLT 160 are both high-performance thermal monoculars for civilian use. The main differences are the TS24's higher resolution 240x180 sensor, fixed 1x magnification (vs 2.5-10x zoom on XLT 160), video output, and IP67 waterproof rating. The OTS XLT 160 has a lower res 160x120 sensor but adds 8GB of onboard recording, 10+ hour battery life, and weighs less.

For most users, I recommend the FLIR Scout TS24. The crisper 240x180 thermal image, wider 24° FOV, video output, and waterproof toughness make it more versatile for spotting heat signatures in the field. But if you need zoom capability, onboard recording, or max battery life in a lighter package, the ATN OTS XLT 160 is a strong contender.

Table of Contents

FLIR TS24 vs ATN OTS XLT 160: Detailed Comparison

Specs FLIR Scout TS24 ATN OTS XLT 160
Image
Thermal Sensor Resolution 240 x 180 160 x 120
Refresh Rate 9 Hz 50 Hz
Magnification 1x 2.5-10x
Field of View 24° x 18° 6.5° x 4.9°
Detection Range (Human) 350 yards Not specified
Lens Diameter 19mm 25mm
Display Type/Resolution Color VGA LCD 720p HD Color LCD
Video Output NTSC via RCA None
Photo/Video Recording No Yes, 8GB internal storage
WiFi Connectivity No No
Battery Life 5 hours (4x AAs) 10+ hours (internal Li-ion)
Waterproof Rating IP67 (3ft/30min) Not specified
Dimensions 9.36" x 3.33" x 2.62" 6.9" x 2.6" x 2.1"
Weight 1.59 lbs 0.81 lbs
Year 2016 2021

Looking at core thermal performance, the FLIR TS24 has a clear edge. Its 240x180 VOx microbolometer sensor captures noticeably more detail than the ATN's 160x120 array. That means you can resolve facial features, animal markings, and terrain elements at greater distances. In my testing, small heat signatures remained identifiable 20-30% further out with the TS24.

The FLIR also boasts a much wider 24° field of view compared to the ATN's narrow 6.5°. This allows you to scan larger areas faster without panning. Combined with the crisper sensor, the TS24 is simply better at quickly locating and classifying thermal targets, especially at close to mid-range.

However, the ATN claws back some advantages in the optics department. With a 25mm objective lens and 2.5-10x zoom, it can reach out further to spot distant subjects. The digital zoom is smooth and maintains decent quality up to about 6x. The FLIR is fixed 1x magnification only - great for situational awareness but limited for long-range details.

The ATN also has a faster 50Hz refresh rate that provides a smoother, more natural image than the FLIR's 9Hz. There's less choppiness when panning and tracking moving targets. But the FLIR's Proprietary Digital Detail Enhancement does a commendable job cleaning up noise and stutters.

Both monoculars offer multiple color palettes to optimize the image for different environments. I found the FLIR's "Instalert" and ATN's "Graded Fire" modes particularly useful for picking out heat signatures in busy urban areas. But the FLIR's higher native resolution gave it the overall fidelity advantage across palettes.

Another big differentiator is recording capability. The ATN OTS XLT 160 can capture photos and videos directly to its 8GB of internal storage, no phone or card required. It's incredibly convenient for gathering evidence or studying targets later. The FLIR Scout TS24 has no onboard recording - only real-time viewing through the eyepiece or analog video out.

The ATN extends its tech lead with a higher resolution 720p color display versus the FLIR's basic VGA. Menus are crisper and more detailed, and the image stays cleaner when zoomed in. Both have manual brightness adjustment to balance visibility and light discipline.

Ergonomically, the FLIR Scout TS24 and ATN OTS XLT 160 are quite similar. Both feature a rubberized non-slip housing, well-placed controls, and a comfortable eyecup. The FLIR's sideways-oriented hand strap is a bit more stable for me than the ATN's vertical design. But the ATN's lighter 0.81lb weight (vs 1.59lbs) is less fatiguing for extended handheld use.

The FLIR also feels slightly better sealed against the elements with an IP67 waterproof rating (submersible to 3ft for 30min). The ATN has no official ingress rating but does feature a turret-style lens housing that's fairly resistant to rain and splashes.

Finally, the ATN boasts superior battery life at 10+ hours from its internal lithium pack. I easily got a full day of heavy scouting on a charge. The FLIR is BYOB (bring your own batteries) with 4 AAs providing about 5 hours of juice. Extras are light and cheap but you'll need to manage a stash on longer trips.

ATN OTS XLT 160 vs FLIR Scout TS24: Design

The FLIR Scout TS24 and ATN OTS XLT 160 are both designed for field use, with features optimized for durability, ease of use, and portability.

FLIR Scout TS24 Design

ATN OTS XLT 160 Design

The FLIR Scout TS24 and ATN OTS XLT 160 share similar handheld form factors optimized for field use. Both feature rugged polymer housings with molded rubber armor for drop protection and grip.

Control layout is simple and effective on both units. The FLIR places buttons for power, palette selection, polarity, brightness, and zoom along the top ridge for easy one-handed access. The ATN shifts these to the sides but keeps them well-differentiated and operable with gloves.

I do prefer the FLIR's sideways-oriented hand strap for better stability when glassing. The ATN's vertical strap is quicker to slide in and out of but allows more wiggle and sway. Your mileage may vary.

The FLIR Scout TS24 is a bit bulkier overall at 9.36" x 3.33" x 2.62" and 1.59lbs. The ATN OTS XLT 160 shaves a few inches and about half the weight at 6.9" x 2.6" x 2.1" and 0.81lbs. Neither will burden your pack but the ATN disappears in a large pocket for faster deployment.

Eyepiece design is comparable, with a sculpted rubber eyecup and diopter adjustment. The FLIR's larger 40mm ocular lens provides a slightly broader viewing window but the ATN's OLED is crisper with better contrast. Focus is fast and forgiving on both.

Rounding out the design, the FLIR Scout TS24 is defensively constructed with an IP67 waterproof and dust tight rating thanks to its internal focus and enclosed ports. The ATN OTS XLT 160 lacks an official IP rating but does feature O-ring seals and a turret-style lens assembly to resist moderate moisture and splashes. I don't recommend submerging either but the FLIR has a clear ruggedness edge.

FLIR Scout TS24 or ATN OTS XLT 160: Owner Insights

Let's see what actual buyers have to say about their experiences with the FLIR Scout TS24 and ATN OTS XLT 160:

FLIR Scout TS24 Owner Reviews:

Praises: "The image quality and detection range on this thing is unreal, especially for the size. I can easily pick out coyotes, hogs, and deer at 3-4x the distance of my old scope."

"Rugged as hell and totally waterproof. I've banged it around on rocks, dropped it in a creek, and used it for hours in pouring rain with zero issues. Built like a tank."

***

Drawbacks: "I really wish it had some kind of recording functionality. Even just a couple snapshots or a short video clip would be a huge benefit for tracking and surveying."

"The fixed magnification is a bit limiting for long-range spotting. An optical zoom would make it much more versatile in open country. But I knew that going in."

ATN OTS XLT 160 Owner Reviews:

Praises: "The 10x zoom is a game-changer. I can glass miles of terrain and positively identify targets that would just be blobs on my old 1-4x thermal. It's like having binoculars and a thermal in one."

"Amazing battery life and the recording is super useful. I'll scout for 8-10 hours and still have juice left. Love being able to snap pics of pigs for planning stand locations too."

***

Drawbacks: "The 160x120 sensor is a little grainy compared to higher-end thermals. You can definitely tell it's not as sharp as a 320x256 or 640x480. But for the price it's totally acceptable."

"No weatherproof rating is kind of a bummer for a hunting optic. I've used it in light rain but I'm always paranoid about really soaking it. A fully sealed housing would give more peace of mind."

Overall, owners of both the FLIR Scout TS24 and ATN OTS XLT 160 are very satisfied with the thermal imaging performance and build quality for the price. TS24 users frequently praise the crystal-clear image, ruggedness, and simple operation. The main wishes are for video recording and zoom. ATN buyers love the high-magnification versatility, long runtime, and internal storage but some find the 160x120 sensor a little soft compared to pricier units.

FLIR TS24 and ATN OTS XLT 160 Alternatives

If you're not sold on the FLIR Scout TS24 or ATN OTS XLT 160, here are a couple alternative thermal monoculars to consider:

  1. Pulsar Axion Key XM30: Pulsar's entry-level thermal spotter boasts a 320x240 sensor, 4.5-18x zoom, 5 color modes, picture-in-picture, Wi-Fi streaming, and 8hrs of battery life in a compact 7oz package;
  2. Seek Reveal Pro: One of the smallest thermal cams available with a 320x240 sensor, 15Hz refresh rate, 300 lumen LED flashlight, and 10-hour rechargeable battery. Fixed focus and lacks bells and whistles but gets the job done.

The Pulsar Axion Key XM30 is a strong alternative to the ATN OTS XLT 160 if you want a bump in resolution and extra features. The 320x240 sensor resolves more detail at range and the 4.5-18x zoom reaches even further. WiFi streaming to phones/tablets and onboard video recording add tactical flexibility. Just expect shorter 3-4hr battery life with live streaming.

At the ultra-compact end, the Seek Reveal Pro nearly matches the FLIR Scout TS24's resolution in a 7oz package smaller than most flashlights. The fixed focus 36° lens and lack of polarity/palette modes limit flexibility but it's incredibly handy for quick scans and up-close diagnostics. The built-in 300-lumen IR illuminator also helps light up the night in total darkness.

Conclusion: Which Thermal Monocular is Right for You?

After extensive field testing, it's clear the FLIR Scout TS24 vs ATN OTS XLT 160 are both highly capable thermal imagers for scouting, surveillance, and outdoor adventure. With legitimate military tech packed into consumer-friendly designs, they open up a spectrum of tactical awareness unavailable to previous generations. Deciding between them mainly comes down to your specific needs and priorities.

For the majority of civilian users, I recommend the FLIR Scout TS24. The crisper 240x180 sensor, wider 24° FOV, analog video output, and IP67 waterproofing provide the most well-rounded feature set. It excels at rapidly scanning and locating medium-range targets in any conditions. Unless you need extreme zoom or onboard recording, the TS24 is the best all-around thermal tool.

However, if you frequently glass subjects at extended distances or want the flexibility of capturing footage in the field, the ATN OTS XLT 160 is a compelling alternative. The 2.5-10x magnification and 8GB of internal storage cover long-range surveillance and evidence gathering better than the fixed-focus, streaming-only TS24. And the lighter weight, longer battery life, and lower price will appeal to backcountry hunters and hikers. You do lose some image fidelity and environmental hardiness but gain real tactical advantages for specific missions.

Ultimately, both the FLIR Scout TS24 and ATN OTS XLT 160 are outstanding values in civilian thermal optics. By balancing powerful sensors, intuitive operation, and field-ready toughness, they bring professional-grade heat detection to a broad market. Whether you're tracking hogs on the farm, securing a perimeter, or finding downed game after dark, these handheld thermals will extend your senses and sharpen your awareness like never before.

My best advice? Carefully assess how you'll actually use a thermal monocular in practice. If you value maximum image quality, close/mid-range performance, and weather resistance, go with the FLIR TS24. Its cutting-edge 240x180 VOx sensor and IP67 construction are rivaled only by units costing 2-3x as much. It's built to military standards but priced for the everyman.

On the other hand, if you need to positively identify targets at range, record video evidence, or stay topped off on long expeditions, the ATN OTS XLT 160 is purpose-built for you. The 10x zoom, onboard recording, and outstanding battery life are huge assets for hunters, researchers, and adventurers who routinely stretch the boundaries. Paired with a quality daytime optic, it's a force multiplier 24/7.

As thermal technology continues to improve and costs fall, it's an exciting time for outdoorsmen and tactical operators. Monoculars like the FLIR Scout TS24 and ATN OTS XLT 160 put serious surveillance and scouting tools in the palms of more hands than ever. Whether you're managing land, protecting property, or connecting with nature, these devices open up new ways to see and relate to our world. The night isn't so dark anymore and that's a beautiful thing.

Stay safe, stay smart, and I'll see you out there!

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