Hikmicro E1L thermal camera review

This trigger-grip thermal camera sports a laser, but is it the right for your toolkit?

Hikmicro E1L thermal camera
(Image: © Adam Juniper)

Digital Camera World Verdict

With an ideal form factor and a high refresh rate – it is difficult to quantify how good it feels in the hand. The resolution is nothing special compared to hybrid devices – which combine visual images from an additional camera to clarify the scene. That said, the laser goes some way to helping you aim and the screen is easy to see. Some pros might benefit from higher resolution or more sophisticated data storage, but ultimately this is a practical choice for less outlay than many pro options, with excellent battery life and a responsive display.

Pros

  • +

    High thermal resolution for the price

  • +

    High refresh rate makes for easy operation

  • +

    Rugged IP54 enclosure is drop-resistant

  • +

    Features standard tripod mount

Cons

  • -

    No visual camera prevents

  • -

    Laser is not a range finder

  • -

    Would benefit from a separate switch for laser

  • -

    Double click to store image is slightly unnatural

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Since 2016, Hikmirco is one of the leading brands in thermal-imaging cameras for a huge range of applications, from thermal binoculars to night vision goggles.

Thermal cameras have become an essential tool in many fields, and this handheld model from Hikmicro is ideally suited to electricians, plumbers, roofers, heating engineers, and any DIY enthusiasts venturing into those areas. That’s why the frame is prepared for a rough-and-tumble life with a toolkit, but it also has a MicroSD card slot; this is for storing measurements that can be included in survey reports. While some pricier alternatives offer hybrid cameras, Hikmicro offers something the American military doesn’t want to share…

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Adam Juniper
Managing Editor

With over 20 years of expertise as a tech journalist, Adam brings a wealth of knowledge across a vast number of product categories, including timelapse cameras, home security cameras, NVR cameras, photography books, webcams, 3D printers and 3D scanners, borescopes, radar detectors… and, above all, drones. 

Adam is our resident expert on all aspects of camera drones and drone photography, from buying guides on the best choices for aerial photographers of all ability levels to the latest rules and regulations on piloting drones. 

He is the author of a number of books including The Complete Guide to Drones, The Smart Smart Home Handbook, 101 Tips for DSLR Video and The Drone Pilot's Handbook