AGM ASP-Micro TM160 vs FLIR Scout TK

By: Jim Reddy | 04.04.2024, 21:24

Hey everyone, Jim's here. Today, I'm comparing two ultra-compact thermal monoculars that pack huge imaging performance into go-anywhere designs: the AGM ASP-Micro TM160 and FLIR Scout TK. Whether you're scouting game, securing a property, or exploring the natural world, these pocket-sized thermal cameras reveal a spectrum of detail your eyes can't see. But their unique strengths in sensor resolution, refresh rate, and extra features make each better for specific uses and budgets.

I've spent days testing both the ASP-Micro TM160 and Scout TK in the field, evaluating their thermal imaging, user experience, build quality, and overall practicality. In this hands-on shootout, I'll share how they stack up across key performance metrics to help you choose the best pocketable FLIR for your needs. Get ready to see the unseen!

AGM ASP-Micro TM160 vs FLIR Scout TK: Quick Comparison

If you're pressed for time, here's the quick and dirty breakdown:The AGM ASP-Micro TM160 and FLIR Scout TK are both highly portable thermal monoculars that fit in a pocket. The AGM boasts a higher resolution 160x120 sensor, 2-4x digital zoom, 50Hz refresh rate, and 8GB of internal recording. The FLIR has a slightly lower 160x120 sensor but ups the display res to 640x480, offers more palette options, and is a few ounces lighter. Both are easy to use and built for rugged outdoor conditions.

If I had to pick one, I'd go with the AGM ASP-Micro TM160 for most users. The crisper thermal image, 2-4x magnification, and onboard recording make it more versatile for surveying larger properties, IDing distant targets, and capturing key footage. But if you want the smallest possible footprint and dead-simple operation for close-range scouting, the lighter, simpler FLIR Scout TK is still a solid option, especially for the price.

Table of Contents

AGM ASP-Micro TM160 vs FLIR Scout TK: Full Comparison

Specs AGM ASP-Micro TM160 FLIR Scout TK
Image
Thermal Sensor Resolution 160 x 120 160 x 120
Display Resolution 720 x 540 OLED 640 x 480 LCD
Refresh Rate 50 Hz 9 Hz
Magnification 1x optical, 2-4x digital zoom Fixed focus
Field of View 24.7° x 18.7° 20° x 16°
Detection Range Not specified 100 yds (human)
Color Palettes 4 8
Video/Photo Recording Yes, 8GB storage No
Wi-Fi Streaming Yes No
Battery Life 10 hours 5 hours
Dimensions 6.3" x 2.4" x 2.2" 6" x 2" x 2"
Weight 9.6 oz 6 oz
Year 2020 2016

The AGM ASP-Micro TM160 and FLIR Scout TK are closely matched on core thermal specs. Both use a 160x120 VOx microbolometer sensor for detecting heat signatures in complete darkness. This provides enough sensitivity to clearly resolve human or animal-sized targets out to 100 yards or more under typical nighttime conditions.

In my field tests, I found the ASP-Micro's thermal imaging notably sharper and more fluid. The 720x540 OLED display renders crisper details than the Scout TK's 640x480 LCD, especially when using the 2-4x digital zoom. And the faster 50Hz refresh rate provides smoother panning and tracking with less choppiness - critical for live target acquisition.

That said, the Scout TK is no slouch in real-world performance. While the display is slightly lower res, it's still plenty detailed for close to mid-range detection. I had no trouble spotting deer, coyotes, and people-sized heat signatures out to 75-100 yards in open country. The fixed focus lens also delivers an impressively wide and consistent depth of view.

The AGM claws back an advantage in advanced features. Its 8GB of internal storage allows for hours of photo and video recording - invaluable for collecting evidence or studying wildlife patterns later. The Wi-Fi module also enables live streaming to your mobile device for remote viewing and camera control. Very handy for unattended surveillance ops.

Conversely, the FLIR Scout TK is a simpler, single-function spotter. There's no recording or wireless connectivity, just straight thermal viewing through the eyepiece. Some users may prefer this streamlined approach. But for me, the ASP-Micro's expanded capabilities make it a more flexible, future-proof tool, especially for the modest price bump.

One area where the Scout TK does outshine the ASP-Micro is color palette options. It offers 8 user-selectable modes versus the AGM's 4. I particularly appreciate the high-contrast "Instaalert" and night-vision-style "Graded Fire" for picking out heat signatures in dense foliage or urban environments. The ASP-Micro's "Red Hot" and "Cold Image" are solid but less adaptable to challenging conditions.

Practically speaking, the FLIR Scout TK is the more compact and lightweight of the two. At just 6 inches long and 6 ounces, it disappears in a cargo pocket and adds negligible weight to your field kit. The ASP-Micro is still eminently portable at 6.3" and 9.6 oz but you'll notice it a bit more during extended handheld use. Your mileage may vary.

Battery life is another clear win for the ASP-Micro. I consistently got 10+ hours of active use on a single charge of its internal Li-ion pack. More than enough for a full night of observation without worrying about backup power. The Scout TK, in contrast, tapped out around 5 hours per charge. Functional but requires a bit more upkeep on multi-day outings.

Both thermals feel rugged and well-built, with IP67 weatherproofing for use in harsh conditions. The rubberized housing and thoughtful control layout make one-handed operation easy even with gloves. I did find the ASP-Micro's extra heft somewhat more stable for long-duration viewing. But the Scout TK's light weight and slimmer profile are less fatiguing overall. Again, personal preference.

FLIR Scout TK vs AGM ASP-Micro TM160: Design

AGM ASP-Micro TM160 Design:

FLIR Scout TK Design:

The AGM ASP-Micro TM160 and FLIR Scout TK feature very similar ergonomic designs optimized for one-handed use. Compact oblong polymer housings with rubberized armor for grip and impact protection. Well-placed controls and eyepieces for intuitive manipulation. Pocket and pack friendly dimensions.

The ASP-Micro is slightly larger and heavier, befitting its higher-res display, magnification, and recording tech. But at 6.3" long, 2.4" wide, and 9.6 oz, it still classifies as ultra-portable for a full-featured thermal. The Scout TK shaves this down to just 6" x 2" x 2" and 6 oz - as compact as many flashlights. Both are eminently totable for their respective capabilities.

When it comes to controls and interface, I found the ASP-Micro a bit more user-friendly. The top-mounted power, mode, and zoom buttons are well-differentiated and easy to locate by touch. The Scout TK's simple 4-button layout along the edge works but requires a bit more eyes-on attention to navigate, especially with gloves.

Both devices sport a diopter-adjustable eyepiece for comfortable viewing with or without glasses. The Scout TK's is a bit smaller and more recessed, while the ASP-Micro's is wider and more cushioned. Functionally similar but I preferred the ASP-Micro's for extended use, particularly with eye protection.

One design aspect where the FLIR Scout TK stands out is the lens cover. The tethered rubber cap stays put when not in use and protects the objective from scratches and debris. The ASP-Micro TM160 skips this feature, leaving the lens exposed. Not a huge deal but something to be mindful of in the field.

Overall, both thermal monoculars feel solid, purposeful, and able to withstand hard use. The IP67 weatherproofing instills confidence in wet conditions, though I wouldn't submerge either for long. Ultimately, it comes down to your size and weight priorities. For maximum thermal performance and versatility in an ultra-compact shell, the AGM ASP-Micro TM160 is the clear leader. For the smallest possible footprint and simplest live-view operation, the FLIR Scout TK gets the nod. You can't go wrong either way.

AGM ASP-Micro TM160 or FLIR Scout TK: Owner Reviews

Let's see what real buyers have to say about their experiences with the AGM ASP-Micro TM160 and FLIR Scout TK thermal monoculars:

AGM ASP-Micro TM160 Owner Reviews:

Praises: "This thing is scary good for the size. I can walk the entire perimeter of my ranch and spot hogs, coyotes, you name it out to 200 yards. So much handier than a full-size thermal scope."

"Built-in recording is a real game changer. I scout with this, mark my shots, then go back and study the herd behavior for next time. The Wi-Fi streaming is just a cool bonus."

***

Drawbacks: "It does chew through batteries faster than I'd like on high power mode. Definitely invest in some backup rechargeables if you plan to be out all night."

"8GB of memory seems like a lot but it fills up quick if you do a lot of video. Would be nice to have expandable storage but for the price I can't complain."

FLIR Scout TK Owner Reviews:

Praises: "If you need a dead-simple, tiny thermal for checking your property at night, this is it. One button turns it on, the other cycles palettes. That's it. Even my tech-averse dad can use it."

"The InstAlert mode is scary good at picking up animals (and people) lurking in the shadows. It's like a sixth sense when walking the dog late at night."

***

Drawbacks: "Does take a few seconds to boot up and calibrate, so you might miss a deer or rabbit bolting away. The refresh rate is also a little choppy when panning. But totally usable."

"I do wish it had at least some recording ability built-in. Even just stills would be nice for comparing spots or animals over time. As is, it's live viewing only."

Overall, owners of both the AGM ASP-Micro TM160 and FLIR Scout TK seem quite satisfied with their respective thermal monoculars. ASP-Micro users frequently praise the excellent imaging performance, useful 2-4x zoom, and convenient recording features. Some ding the mediocre battery life and lack of expandable storage but find it a highly capable, flexible tool for the price.

Scout TK buyers appreciate the simple, intuitive operation, extremely compact size, and instant "heat vision" for close-range scouting. A few nitpicks about the slower startup, refresh rate, and absent recording are balanced by kudos for the excellent palette options and overall value. If you don't need bells and whistles, it gets the job done.

My take? Both offer outstanding thermal performance and usability for their respective feature sets and prices. The AGM ASP-Micro TM160 is the clear choice for shooters, hunters, and adventurers who want maximum flexibility and detail in a pocket-friendly form factor. The FLIR Scout TK is tailor-made for property owners, dog walkers, and casual wildlife watchers seeking a no-fuss thermal assist. You won't be disappointed either way.

AGM ASP-Micro TM160 and FLIR Scout TK Alternatives

While the AGM ASP-Micro TM160 and FLIR Scout TK are two of the best pocketable thermal monoculars around, there are a few worthy alternatives to consider:

  1. HTI HT-301: This budget-friendly pocket scope packs a 384x288 sensor, 1-8x digital zoom, and 6-hour battery into a 10oz package. A great entry point for thermal newbies;
  2. Seek Reveal: The smallest thermal on this list at just 3oz and 3x2", the Reveal delivers 206x156 resolution, 36° FOV, and 10 color palettes in a nearly phone-sized unit. Top choice when size and simplicity matter most.

The HTI HT-301 is an intriguing budget alternative to the AGM ASP-Micro TM160. You get a notably higher-res 384x288 sensor, wider 1-8x digital zoom, and nearly equivalent 6-hour battery life for around half the price. The 10oz weight and 7" length are still eminently pocketable. Trade-offs include a slightly dimmer display, 25Hz refresh rate, and less certain waterproofing. But for casual users, it's a very solid value.

At the other end of the size spectrum, the Seek Reveal makes even the FLIR Scout TK look enormous. At a scant 3oz and 3x2", it's by far the most compact thermal on this list. Yet it still packs a useful 206x156 sensor, wide 36° FOV, and 10 palette options into that travel-friendly frame. You lose the magnification, recording, and Wi-Fi of the AGM but gain an integrated 300-lumen LED flashlight and 10-hour rechargeable battery. For always-ready thermal assist, it's tough to beat.

Should You Buy the AGM ASP-Micro TM160 or FLIR Scout TK?

As we've seen, both the AGM ASP-Micro TM160 and FLIR Scout TK deliver excellent thermal imaging performance and usability in ultra-compact, pocket-friendly designs. By shrinking mil-spec IR tech down to monocular size, they put serious scouting and surveillance tools in the palms of hunters, homeowners, and outdoor enthusiasts everywhere. Your specific choice mainly depends on how you prioritize sensor resolution, recording, and size.

For most users, I recommend the AGM ASP-Micro TM160. Its 160x120 thermal sensor, 720p OLED display, 2-4x digital zoom, and 50Hz refresh rate provide the most detailed, adaptable imaging of the two. Add in 8GB of onboard recording with Wi-Fi streaming and you have an incredibly versatile tool for documenting and sharing thermal intel, day or night. The waterproof, fogproof housing and 10-hour battery are icing on the cake. At 6.3" long and 9.6 oz, it's a bit bulkier than the Scout TK. But for me, the extra power and features are well worth the modest size and price premiums.

That said, the FLIR Scout TK remains an excellent option for anyone who values maximum portability and simplicity above all else. Within its 100-yard detection range, the Scout's 160x120 sensor and 640x480 LCD deliver solid thermal imaging for such a tiny 6-oz unit. The wider FOV, 8 color palettes, and no-frills operation also make it very user-friendly for quick spotting tasks. Lack of magnification and recording are clear limitations. But if you just need an effective thermal assist always at the ready, it's tough to beat the Scout's performance-to-size ratio.

In testing both the AGM ASP-Micro TM160 vs FLIR Scout TK, I was frankly blown away by the amount of thermal capability they pack into such pocketable packages. Holding either up to your eye is like donning a superpower - you immediately perceive a hidden world of heat signatures, even in total darkness. Whether you're stalking hogs, securing a perimeter, or marveling at nocturnal wildlife, these personal thermals will seriously expand your awareness and abilities afield.

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