Introduction
Some time ago, HIKMICRO introduced a new series of multi-spectral binoculars called Habrok to the market. Initially with two models, HH35 and HQ35, which differed only in the size of the thermal imaging sensor. Essentially, the new series was an upgrade of the HIKMICRO Raptor series, which offered a similar concept in 2022. However, during use, it became apparent that the designers still had room for improvements, which were incorporated into the development of the Habrok series. The basic Habrok models were thus more or less modified versions of the models from the Raptor series, with the ability to focus the optical channel image, a different battery compartment layout, and an overall design much more reminiscent of a classic hunting binocular. Soon, however, the two initial Habrok models were joined by a model labeled 4K, which is technically unique and significantly different from the previous models. It was likely developed with certain user groups in mind, who require precisely this combination of thermal imaging, day-night optics, and a laser rangefinder.
While the HH35 and HQ35 models focused primarily on high-end thermal imaging, the main advantage of the 4K model is its high-resolution optical channel with a built-in IR illuminator, enabling truly detailed observation in color mode during the day and in black-and-white at night. In the 4K model, the thermal imaging channel is used solely for detection and to support the optical channel. As a result, its technical features are relatively basic, comparable to entry-level thermal monoculars. This has allowed Hikmicro to keep the price at a very reasonable level, which is another key advantage of the 4K model. Additionally, with a laser rangefinder capable of measuring distances up to 1000 m, the ability to focus the image separately for both the thermal and optical channels, and an attractive design, it becomes a highly appealing device. The Habrok 4K has already garnered attention among hunters and other outdoor users who previously relied on multiple tools, which are now combined into one compact and affordable device.
As with HIKMICRO Raptor, we were once again faced with the question before this test: have the designers managed to combine all the listed features into one device in a way that fully retains their practical value? Only then will we truly have an “all-in-one” device that can replace a classic daytime binocular, a thermal monocular, a laser rangefinder, and a digital night vision device with the ability to record and take photos.
Technical characteristics of the device
| Thermal imaging channel | |
| Sensor | VOx Uncooled 256 × 192 12 µm NETD <35 mK |
| Lens | 25mm / F 1.0 |
| Magnification | 4.3 x base magnification (2x,4x, digital zoom) |
| Field of view | 12.2m x 9.3m/100m |
| Detection distance | 1200 m |
| Min. focus distance | 3m |
| Optical channel | |
| Sensor | 3840 x 2160 Progressive Scan CMOS |
| Lens | 60 mm / F2.2 |
| Magnification | 5.5 x base magnification (2x,4x, digital zoom) |
| Field of view | 12m x 7.2m/100m |
| Detection distance at night | 350 m |
| IR illuminator | LED 940nm |
| Min. focus distance | 8m |
| Laser rangefinder | |
| Laser | Class 1 / 905 nm |
| Maximum measuring distance | 1000 m |
| Measurement accuracy | ± 1 m |
| Screen | OLED, 1920 ×1080 |
| Power supply | 2x 18650 Li-ion batteries Run time ≥8h (according to manufacturer) USB – C connector |
| Dimensions | 138 mm × 68 mm × 223 mm 795g without batteries |
| Protection Level | IP67 |
| Video/photo recording | Resolution: 1920×1080 Format: mp4 / .jpg 64GB internal memory |
The full name of the model we tested is HIKMICRO Habrok 4K HE25LN, which in technical terms represents the following specifications:
The 4K optical channel consists of a CMOS sensor with a high resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels. In front of it is a lens with a focal length of 60mm and an aperture of F2.2. Together, they produce a very sharp and detailed image with a base magnification of 5.5X and a field of view of 12×7.2m/100m. The image is focused using a ring at the end of the left objective.
H: Denotes all Habrok models.
E25: The thermal imaging channel consists of a sensor with a resolution of 256×192, a pixel pitch of 12 µm, and a NETD <35 mK, along with a germanium lens with a focal length of 25mm and a fast F1.0 aperture. This combination provides an image with a base magnification of 4.3X and a field of view of 12.2m x 9.3m/100m. The image is focused with a ring at the end of the right objective.
L: The laser rangefinder uses a 905nm wavelength laser beam, classified as Class 1, which means it poses no risk to living beings. According to the manufacturer, it measures distances from a minimum of 10m to a maximum of 1000m.
N: An integrated LED IR illuminator with a wavelength of 940nm. Infrared light at this wavelength is even less visible to living beings than at 850nm, but it also has around 40% less power, reducing the range of night illumination. The illuminator module is positioned between the two objectives, above the laser rangefinder module. By rotating it, the IR beam can be narrowed to extend the usable distance, while naturally reducing the illuminated portion of the field of view.
For understanding the operation and use of the Habrok 4K, the following technical details are also important:
- Image focusing, unlike the Raptor, can be done separately for both channels—the thermal imaging and the day-night optical channel. This improvement addresses what was likely the biggest drawback of the Raptor series, truly enabling the Habrok to be called a multi-spectral device.
- The image is displayed on a large OLED screen with a resolution of 1920×1080.
- The eyepieces can be independently adjusted to the left and right, with an interpupillary distance ranging from 60mm to 74mm.
- Diopter adjustment on both eyepieces is possible from -5D to +3D.
- There is a threaded mount on the bottom of the device for attachment to a tripod.
- The device is powered by two standard 18650 batteries.
Watch our extensive video review
How the testing was done
Since Hikmicro introduced the Habrok 4K as an ideal device for stalking, we conducted testing in May and June, when roe deer hunting is in full swing across much of Europe. In roe deer hunting, the trophy value of antlers still plays a significant role. This requires high-quality hunting optics that allow for precise observation and evaluation of the animals before making a potential decision for a shot. This put the color image of the day/night optical channel of the Habrok 4K to a demanding test.
We also found the Habrok 4K to be highly useful for hunters who often hunt wild boars and do not fully trust the image provided by thermal imaging when selecting the right animal for a shot. We anticipated that the highly detailed image of the optical channel on the Habrok 4K would enable observation of all necessary characteristics required to assess the game before shooting.
The testing took place in a lowland hunting ground, where the game is very cautious due to various disturbances. The animals often emerge from cover at dusk and return quickly to it. For this reason, we hoped that the digital night channel would allow us to observe and evaluate even the more cautious part of the population that only emerges under the cover of darkness. We intended to use the color day channel in place of a traditional hunting binocular for detailed evaluation of individual animals. Meanwhile, the thermal imaging function served as the primary tool for quickly assessing the situation around us, enabling swift “scanning” of the area and nearly 100% detection of all living beings in the vicinity.
Our observations were carried out in the morning and evening. In the mornings, we entered the hunting grounds in complete darkness, using thermal imaging for a quick scan of the area between us and the high stand from which we planned to observe. This allowed us to choose the best approach direction to minimize disturbance to the wildlife. During evening observations, we remained in the stand for at least an hour after it became too dark to see with the naked eye or regular binoculars. We used this time to test the optical channel in night mode, sometimes with and sometimes without the use of the built-in IR illuminator. The sensors of modern digital night devices are so sensitive that, with even a small amount of ambient light, they can display very usable black-and-white images without the need for an IR illuminator. We wanted to test this feature on the Habrok 4K as well.
Testing results
The day-night optical channel of the Habrok 4K performed excellently in all hunting and general usage scenarios.
During daytime hunting, it provided sufficient detail to accurately assess all the game we encountered. While the depth of field is not particularly large, requiring frequent adjustments of the focus ring whenever the distance to the observed target changed by around 10 meters or more, the device still offered a sharp image. The base magnification of 5.5x is somewhat lower than typical hunting binoculars, but the digital zoom on the Habrok 4K is so well-developed that even at maximum digital magnification, the image quality remains more than satisfactory. Using the digital zoom, the total magnification can reach 11x or even 22x, which is more than adequate for hunting purposes. We made full use of the zoom feature during our hunts, mostly keeping it at 11x, which offered a good compromise between field of view and detail clarity.
At the highest magnification of 22x, we faced the challenge of stabilizing the image. Observing freehand at such a high magnification is very difficult and practically impossible to stabilize adequately. Therefore, we only used the maximum zoom when we had a good rest, typically provided by the edge of a hunting stand, a shooting stick, or in some cases, the trunk or branch of a nearby tree. The tripod mount also proved highly useful when using the 22x magnification. We used a shooting stick with a quick-release camera adapter head, onto which we mounted the Habrok 4K. This allowed us to carry the device around the neck and quickly attach it to the top of the tripod when we needed a stable rest. This setup allowed us to point the device in any direction and enjoy a sharp image with complete stability.
During nighttime hunting, the excellent light sensitivity of the optical sensor became evident. We were pleasantly surprised by how well the 940nm LED IR illuminator performed. We observed hares and foxes at distances greater than 100 meters, and roe deer even further.
While we didn’t have the opportunity to observe wild boars during the test, based on our observations of roe deer, we believe that the Habrok 4K would perform well for assessing wild boars at a feeding site even in complete darkness.
Equipped with an 850nm wavelength IR illuminator, the Habrok 4K allows for longer observation distances. However, even in this case, we should not expect miracles, as the IR illuminator in both Habrok 4K models is LED-based rather than laser-based. For such scenarios, we found a good solution. We attached a short Picatinny rail to the tripod thread and mounted an external VCSEL laser IR illuminator on it. With this setup, we were able to observe up to 400 meters or even slightly beyond. Of course, at such distances, we cannot expect as much detail as at shorter ranges. However, in open areas such as meadows, harvested fields, or winter landscapes with little vegetation, we could still get a fairly good view of what was happening.
When using IR illuminators at night, we often encounter issues with IR light reflecting off obstacles, causing sensor overload and resulting in a completely “blown-out” white image. To address this, HIKMICRO developed the Smart IR feature, which automatically adjusts the IR illumination intensity to prevent sensor overload. In practice, however, this solution did not perform well. Smart IR adjusted the illumination to the nearest object, such as an obstacle, which was well-lit, while our intended target behind the obstacle remained dark. We ended up leaving this feature mostly turned off and instead tried to reduce IR reflections by focusing the IR beam into a narrow field, thereby avoiding illuminating obstacles between us and the target as much as possible.
Another peculiarity worth noting is that focusing in the black-and-white night mode is different from focusing in the color day mode. Therefore, when switching between day and night modes on the optical channel, we had to adjust the focus even if the distance to the target remained the same.
The highly sensitive optical sensor of the Habrok 4K also performed well in twilight without the use of the IR illuminator. We could use the device without IR illumination when traditional optics or the naked eye could only see darkness. Even a small amount of ambient light, such as a full moon or the last remnants of twilight in the morning or evening, was enough for the Habrok 4K to display a highly usable image similar to thermal imaging. In such conditions, living creatures stood out as dark silhouettes against a grayish background. Identifying the type of game was easy, though the finer details were somewhat blurred. The ability to observe without an IR illuminator also proved helpful when obstacles were present between us and the game, as these would otherwise reflect IR light and overload the sensor. This function is very useful, though it has a limited window of use during the transition between complete darkness and the visible light of dawn or dusk.
The thermal imaging channel of the Habrok 4K is primarily designed for detecting living beings in the surrounding area. The combination of a relatively small sensor with a resolution of 256 x 192 pixels, a 25mm focal length lens, a fast F1.0 aperture, and a NETD <35 mK produces a thermal image that, by today’s standards, falls into the entry-level category of thermal observation devices. However, it is still sufficient for detecting living beings at distances typical for night hunting. During testing, we were able to identify stationary roe deer at distances of around 200 m. Hares were easily recognizable at distances of about 100 m, and at even greater distances, they appeared as indistinct blobs in the color chosen to display heat. We also used the thermal imaging function a few times to check whether hunting stands were occupied, and it reliably indicated whether a stand was occupied or free, even at distances of up to 1000 m.
It’s important to understand that the distance at which different species of game can be recognized using thermal devices depends as much on the user’s experience with thermal imaging as it does on the technical specifications of the device. An experienced user can identify game from an amorphous shape on the screen based on behavior patterns and movement. Conversely, an inexperienced user may struggle to recognize living beings even with higher-end devices. Predicting how a user will perceive the thermal image quality of a device can also be difficult. Experienced users familiar with various devices will notice the subtle differences between quality classes, while those encountering thermal imaging for the first time with the Habrok 4K will likely be impressed by the contrast and ease of detecting living beings in complete darkness, even with an entry-level thermal image.
Regardless of user experience, we can confidently say that the Habrok 4K’s thermal channel is capable of assessing wild boar at feeding sites when selecting the smallest in the group for culling. For evaluating gender and the trophy quality of adult animals, however, the optical channel in night mode with IR illumination will be essential. In regions where hunting of predatory species with night devices is permitted, an experienced thermal user will also be able to recognize foxes or jackals at distances typical for night hunting.
In devices like the Habrok 4K, the size of the field of view and base magnification play a crucial role. The general rule is that the larger the field of view, the easier and faster it is to observe the area in front of us. In a multi-spectral device, it is also important that the fields of view and magnifications of the available channels do not differ significantly, ensuring that switching between channels doesn’t result in a significant change in perspective. In the Habrok 4K, the difference in the field of view between the optical and thermal channels is only 0.2m, and the magnification differs by only 1.2x. This allows us to maintain a similar view of the surroundings when switching between channels.
However, the field of view and magnification in both channels are more suited to detailed observation of the target than to quickly scanning the terrain. A 12 m field of view is relatively narrow, and at shorter distances, scanning the terrain is slower compared to devices with a wider field of view.
Laser rangefinder
The laser rangefinder on the device has a nominal measuring range of 1000 meters with an accuracy of +/- 1 meter. In our test, we focused more on its reliability since we did not have a reference device for direct comparison of measurements. We verified the measurements using the Google Maps app and confirmed that they were accurate within 900 meters. Measurement accuracy is significantly better and easier if the rangefinder is set to perform several consecutive measurements. We recommend setting it to continuous measurement for 5 or 10 seconds, which allows the user to stabilize the device on the target after pressing the rangefinder activation button. Typically, after the third measurement, when the device is steady, the distances remain consistent, and the measurement can be considered accurate.
Power Supply and Battery
The Habrok 4K is powered by two 18650 batteries, and the package includes four batteries. According to the manufacturer, two batteries should last up to 8 hours. However, with such a complex device, especially when using the IR illuminator, this is difficult to believe and even harder to measure with consistent repeatability. The device offers so many different usage modes that it is impossible to replicate the same usage scenario each time during hunting trips.
The optical channel consumes the least energy, but this changes significantly when the IR illuminator is used. The thermal imaging channel falls somewhere in between in terms of energy consumption. Other factors like the laser rangefinder, reviewing recordings, connecting to smart devices via Wi-Fi, and low ambient temperatures also contribute to energy consumption.
During the test, we kept the device on at all times but only turned on the IR illuminator when observing. We regularly switched between the thermal and optical channels as needed and used the Auto Screen Off feature, which turns off the screen when the device is lowered or placed horizontally.
With this mode of use, we were able to operate the device for just over 4 hours on a single pair of the included original HIKMICRO batteries, after which the battery indicator showed only one bar remaining. At this point, the laser rangefinder functioned intermittently, with the screen displaying a warning every time we tried to measure the distance. Since we believe the device is not fully functional without the laser rangefinder, we estimate that users will get between 8 and 9 hours of use with the supplied set of four batteries.
However, the runtime on a single set of batteries can be misleading for such devices. There is a wide variety of 18650 battery types available on the market, which differ in nominal and actual capacity.
We recommend that users always carry at least one spare set of fully charged, high-quality batteries with a nominal capacity of at least 3000mAh. In winter hunting conditions, when a longer session is anticipated, an additional pair of batteries might be necessary.
Alternatively, the device can be connected to an external portable battery via the USB-C port, providing another power option for extended use.
Ergonomics of Habrok 4K
The ergonomics of the Habrok 4K device are exceptionally well-designed, offering a familiar and comfortable form factor to hunters, thanks to its classic hunting binocular design. When viewing through the device with both eyes at night, the effect of losing night vision and the potential for headaches is significantly reduced compared to using a monocular.
On each side of the device, there are three buttons for controlling various functions. These buttons are logically arranged and easily accessible without changing hand positions. They allow for control of most primary functions, while more detailed settings are handled through the main menu. The functions accessible directly via the buttons include: (1) power on/off and standby mode, (2) photo and video recording, (3) laser rangefinder, (4) switching between optical and thermal channels and between day/night modes on the optical channel, (5) quick and main menus, and (6) zoom. The only function we missed having a dedicated button for was the IR illuminator setting. The activation and intensity adjustment of the IR illuminator are done through the main menu, which takes a bit more time than having a separate button for it.
The buttons are large, well-spaced, and can be used while wearing gloves. They provide a reliable tactile response, giving users clear feedback that the command has been successfully registered.
The shape and dimensions of the Habrok 4K offer a stable resting position when you need to steady the image. The adjustable interpupillary distance allows for easy and precise customization for each user. The focusing rings on the eyepieces are a bit less convenient compared to the typical central focusing ring found on hunting binoculars, which can be adjusted with fingers without shifting the grip on the device.
The device also includes a video player that allows you to view recorded videos and photos on the screen. This is a very useful feature for quickly reviewing captured footage, something not offered by many manufacturers up to this point.
Included Accessories
The additional equipment in the package includes a neck strap, a soft storage pouch, a charger for four batteries, a data transfer cable, four 18650 batteries, a tripod mount adapter, user manual, and warranty statement. These are all the expected accessories for such a device, and we were especially pleased with the high-quality, comfortable neck strap, which has been lacking in some much more expensive devices.
Practical Tips for Using the Habrok 4K
During extensive testing of the Habrok 4K in various hunting scenarios, we gathered some practical tips that we’d like to share with users:
- Optimize the Quick Menu: The quick menu for changing the display modes is very useful if it’s kept simple. The device allows storing four modes, and in the default factory settings, three thermal imaging modes (black hot, white hot, and monochrome) are pre-configured along with the optical channel. This meant that we had to cycle through two additional thermal modes every time we wanted to switch back to the optical channel. After a few days of use, we found it more efficient to only keep the optical channel and one thermal mode with our preferred color scheme for displaying warm objects. This allowed us to switch between the thermal and optical channels with just one button press. A long press on the same button switches between the day and night modes in the optical channel, with the night mode remembering the last IR illuminator settings used. To avoid accidentally activating the IR illuminator when switching to night mode, we made it a habit to turn it off whenever we switched from the optical to the thermal channel. While this may sound complicated, with some practice, each user will quickly find the simplest and most useful quick menu setup for themselves.
- Stabilizing the Image: To ensure a steady image, the user should find the best possible rest that their hunting environment allows, such as the edge of a stand, a shooting stick, or a nearby surface. The optical channel’s maximum magnification is best utilized when the device is well-supported, and precise image focusing is achieved using the focusing ring on the objective lens.
- Effective Use of Thermal Mode: Most of the time, even during the day, we used the thermal mode to scan the area in front of us. Once a living being was detected, we quickly switched to the optical channel with one click. We kept the optical channel at 11x magnification, which allowed us to observe details on the target. It’s important to have the observed object centered in the field of view when switching from the thermal to the optical channel, as this makes it easier to spot the object in the less contrast-rich optical image.
- External IR Illuminator: The use of a compact external VCSEL laser IR illuminator proved extremely helpful, significantly extending the illumination range while conserving the device’s internal batteries. The size of the Habrok 4K and the tripod thread offer an excellent setup for using an external illuminator.
- Photo and Video Recording: We frequently used the photo and video recording function. With a simple press of the dedicated button, we could capture high-resolution images and videos. While these may not compete with professional photography, they are perfect for later analysis of the observed game, sharing on social media (a growing trend), or simply preserving memories.
Conclusion
With the Habrok 4K HE25LN, HIKMICRO has successfully brought to market what it couldn’t quite achieve with the Raptor series—a true multifunctional and multispectral device that replaces all the separate tools previously needed. Although there are similar products from other manufacturers, some of which surpass the Habrok 4K in thermal image quality, none offer such a high-quality digital day-night channel. This feature sets the Habrok 4K apart from other thermal binoculars with an added optical channel.
While it’s true that the current quality of digital day images, even from the best digital binoculars, doesn’t match the clarity of traditional glass-lens binoculars, the Habrok 4K’s image quality is more than sufficient for reliable game assessment. The major advantage of digital day-night devices is their ability to produce a usable color image well into twilight, long after even the best glass-lens binoculars fail. Moreover, the digital binocular can still be used in complete darkness with the help of an IR illuminator.
Despite all the well-deserved praise, there is still room for future improvements. A focus ring within easy reach during the basic grip would greatly simplify use, as it would eliminate the need to adjust your hold on the device every time you refocus. We also expect that HIKMICRO will eventually combine the 4K optical channel with their 640×512 thermal sensor, creating a truly top-tier device in every aspect. Hopefully, the price will remain as reasonable as it is with the current Habrok 4K model.
So, who would we recommend the HIKMICRO Habrok 4K HE25LN to? Primarily to hunters looking for a multifunctional device for both day and night hunting, who will appreciate the space-saving convenience of using a single device instead of three or even four. It performed excellently in almost every situation, whether stalking, waiting at a feeding site, or during routine patrols in the hunting ground.
Given that it’s a relatively complex device, some hunters less familiar with modern smart devices might experience difficulties. However, such hunters are becoming fewer, and anyone willing to spend some time exploring the settings and options offered by the Habrok 4K will find it to be an excellent and versatile companion in all forms of hunting.
