In this blog post we’ll be discussing the latest thermal monocular from Pulsar: the Axion XG35 Compact.
Pulsar Axion XG35 Compact Video Review
About the Pulsar Axion Compact Series
Pulsar is one of the most renowned names in the thermal imaging industry, particularly for civilian use, and is based in Lithuania, within the European Union. In October 2024, Pulsar introduced a new line of devices—the Axion Compact series. These devices come with even smaller dimensions than their predecessors, yet they still retain all the familiar features we’ve come to expect from the Axion line.
Improved Design and Dimensions
One of the most noticeable changes in the new Axion Compact is its size. Compared to previous Axion models, this version is shorter and narrower. The biggest difference is in its height and the slimmer design of the lower part of the device. Overall, the new form factor is, in my opinion, a perfect evolution of the Axion series.
Battery and Ergonomic Changes
The main adjustment in this new version is the shift from the APS 5 battery to the APS 3. The APS 3 is smaller, allowing Pulsar to make the lower part of the device more compact. This contributes not only to the smaller overall size but also to a reduction in weight. The smaller form factor makes the Axion XG35 Compact more comfortable to hold and operate compared to previous models like the Axion 2.
Physical Properties of the Pulsar Axion XG35 Compact
The Pulsar Axion Compact series features a durable magnesium alloy housing with a rubber insert on the bottom. This design improves the ergonomics of the device, providing a non-slip grip during use. The solid build ensures the device is both sturdy and comfortable to handle, even in challenging conditions.
The dimensions of the device are 146mm in length, 49mm in width, and 73mm in height, with a total weight of just 350 grams, including the battery. This makes the Axion XG35 one of the most compact and lightweight thermal monoculars available, perfect for users who prioritize portability without sacrificing functionality.
The front of the device features the 35mm focal length objective lens, protected by a rubber and hard plastic cover. The cover securely locks in place, safeguarding the lens from dust and debris. When in use, the cover snaps to the back of the device magnetically, ensuring it stays out of the way while observing—a practical and well-designed feature.
With an IPX7 protection rating, the Axion XG35 Compact is dustproof and waterproof, capable of withstanding immersion in water up to one meter deep for at least 30 minutes. This makes it a reliable choice for outdoor enthusiasts, no matter the weather conditions.
The Axion XG35 Compact is built to perform in extreme temperatures, with an operational range from -20°C to 40°C. This makes it suitable for use in both cold winter conditions and warmer environments without any performance loss.
Connectivity and Charging
On the left side of the device, you’ll find a USB-C port. This serves a dual purpose: charging the battery and connecting the Axion XG35 to a PC for data transfer or updates. The compartment is neatly designed, ensuring ease of access without compromising the device’s sleek profile.
Tripod Compatibility
On the bottom of the device, there is a tripod adapter, allowing you to mount the Axion XG35 on a tripod for stable, hands-free use. This is a valuable feature for extended observation sessions or when capturing steady images.
Adjustable Carrying Strap
The carrying strap is located on the right side of the device by default. However, if you are left-handed, Pulsar has thoughtfully designed the device with holes on the opposite side, allowing you to easily switch the strap for your convenience. As a right-handed user, I found the strap and ergonomic design to be just right—it fits comfortably in hand, making extended use easy and natural.
Ocular and Diopter Settings
The ocular of the Pulsar Axion XG35 Compact is made from soft, flexible rubber, which makes it comfortable to use, even during extended viewing sessions. The rubber is foldable, which is particularly useful for those who wear glasses. With the ocular folded back, the device is much more comfortable to use alongside eyeglasses.
The diopter setting is located directly on the ocular. You can rotate the entire ocular, which is made from durable hard plastic but designed to provide a solid grip. The diopter ring has a stiff and secure feel, ensuring that once you make adjustments, they won’t accidentally shift during use. This allows for precise control over your focus without worrying about unintentional changes.
Battery and Battery Compartment
Located under the ocular is the battery compartment, which houses one APS 3 battery. Inserting the battery is simple—you just need to push it in until it clicks securely into place. To remove the battery, press the button located on the front of the device, and the battery will pop out for easy replacement. It’s a well-thought-out design that makes swapping batteries quick and hassle-free.
Battery Life and Charging
The Axion XG35 Compact has an impressive startup time of just under five seconds. Additionally, the device includes a sleep mode function, which can be activated by holding down the blue button for one to three seconds. This feature helps conserve battery life during periods of inactivity.
The APS 3 battery has a capacity of 3,200 mAh and can be charged in two ways: directly through the USB-C port on the device or using an external charger. While the external charger is not included with the device, it is reasonably priced at around €43 and allows for charging two batteries simultaneously. Extra batteries are also affordable, typically costing around €45 each.
Battery Performance
Despite its small size, the APS 3 battery provides around seven hours of use on a single charge. This is quite impressive for such a compact thermal monocular, making the Axion XG35 Compact a reliable companion for extended outdoor activities.
Buttons and Controls on the Pulsar Axion XG35 Compact
On top of the device, there are four control buttons. The placement of these buttons is excellent, allowing you to operate the device seamlessly using all four fingers. This intuitive layout makes it easy to adjust the settings while keeping a steady grip on the device.
Let’s quickly go over what each button does to give you a better understanding of their functions.
Power and Calibration (Blue Button)
- Short Press: Turns the device on and calibrates the sensor.
- Long Press (1-3 seconds): Activates sleep mode, turning off the display but keeping the device in standby for quick use.
- Long Press (More than 3 seconds): Powers off the device completely.
Amplification and Magnification
- Short Press: Changes the amplification level, allowing you to adjust how the image appears.
- Long Press: Changes the magnification level, giving you a closer view of your target.
Menu Button
- Short Press: Opens the quick menu, where you can adjust settings such as brightness, contrast, and magnification. You can also access the stadiometric rangefinder here.
- Long Press: Enters the main menu, allowing you to access and modify all settings of the device.
Photo/Video Button
- Short Press: Starts video recording or takes a picture.
- Long Press: Switches between photo and video modes, allowing for seamless transitions based on your needs.
User-Friendly Menu
The menu system in the Axion XG35 Compact is consistent with other Pulsar thermal devices. It’s simple, intuitive, and easy to navigate. Whether you’re making quick adjustments in the field or diving into the full menu to fine-tune your settings, the interface remains user-friendly and efficient, making it straightforward even for new users.
Optical Properties of the Pulsar Axion XG35 Compact
The Axion XG35 Compact comes with a minimal magnification of 2.5x and features an 8x digital zoom factor, allowing the magnification to range from 2.5x to 20x. From my experience, the magnification remains clear and easy to observe up to around 10-15x, but beyond that, the image becomes increasingly pixelated. At 20x magnification, the image quality diminishes significantly, making it less ideal for close observation at maximum zoom.
The device is equipped with a 35mm focal length lens with an aperture of f/1.2. The field of view at 100 meters is 21.9 meters by 13.7 meters, which is quite broad, making it suitable for scanning wide areas. The Axion XG35 Compact also has an impressive detection range of up to 1750 meters, allowing for effective long-distance observation.
Display and Resolution
The Axion XG35 Compact is equipped with an AMOLED HD display, offering a resolution of 640×400 pixels. While the device is capable of recording both videos and photos at a resolution of 960×600 pixels, which is decent for capturing clear thermal imagery, the internal storage of 64 GB provides ample space for storing a large number of photos and videos.
However, one downside, in my opinion, is the display size compared to the Axion 2 models. The Axion 2 devices have a larger display resolution of 1024×768 pixels, and in a side-by-side comparison, the smaller display in the Axion XG35 Compact is noticeable. Given that both models share the same objective lens and sensor, this reduction in display size feels like a slight drawback.
Color Modes and Focus
The device comes with 8 different color modes that can be easily switched in the menu, giving users flexibility in choosing the most suitable view for different environments.
The manual states a close focus distance of 5 meters, but during my testing, I was able to focus on objects as close as 2 meters, which is a nice advantage for observing closer subjects.
Sensor Specifications
The sensor in the Axion XG35 Compact is European-made and uncooled, with a resolution of 640×480 pixels and a pixel pitch of 12 microns. The refresh rate is a smooth 50 Hz, ensuring fluid movement of the image. The NETD (Noise Equivalent Temperature Difference) is less than 40 millikelvins, meaning the sensor can detect minimal temperature differences, improving its performance in distinguishing objects in various thermal environments.
Calibration Modes
The Axion XG35 Compact offers three calibration modes: automatic, manual, and semi-automatic. This flexibility allows users to choose the mode that best suits their preferences and specific scenarios, ensuring the image remains clear and accurate.
Price and Warranty
The Pulsar Axion XG35 Compact is priced at approximately €1,900. While this places it in the higher price range for thermal monoculars, it’s worth noting that the device is predominantly made in Europe. Both the sensor and most parts of the device are manufactured directly by Pulsar in Lithuania, ensuring high-quality control and craftsmanship.
The device comes with a 3-year warranty, providing peace of mind for users. Additionally, Pulsar’s service department is located within the European Union, in Lithuania, making customer support and repairs more accessible for European users.
What’s Included in the Box?
When you purchase the Pulsar Axion XG35 Compact, you’ll find the following items in the box:
- Carrying Bag: A compact, slim, and well-designed carrying bag that perfectly fits the device.
- Cleaning Cloth: Useful for keeping the lens and device clean.
- APS 3 Battery: Comes with a protective cap for safe transport.
- User Manual: Available in multiple languages to help you get started with the device.
- Warranty Card: The device is backed by a 3-year warranty, ensuring long-term support.
- Charging Adapter and Cable: Included for charging the battery either inside or outside the device.
Positives
- Compact and Lightweight: The Axion XG35 Compact is very small and lightweight, making it easy to carry and handle during outdoor activities.
- Excellent Build Quality and Ergonomics: The magnesium alloy housing is durable and designed to withstand tough conditions. The ergonomic design, including the adjustable carrying strap, makes it comfortable for both left- and right-handed users.
- Interchangeable Batteries: The APS 3 battery offers long battery life, and the ability to quickly swap batteries is a big plus, especially for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts. The batteries are lightweight, so carrying an extra one is easy.
Areas for Improvement
- Smaller Display: One noticeable drawback is the smaller display compared to the Axion 2 XG models. When viewed side by side, the display in the Axion XG35 Compact feels smaller and less comfortable to look through.
- Frequent Sensor Calibration: Upon startup, the device calibrates frequently, which results in a “clicking” sound and a brief image freeze for 1-2 seconds. While this improves once the device warms up, it’s still noticeable during initial use and could be smoother.
Final Thoughts on the Pulsar Axion XG35 Compact
The Pulsar Axion XG35 Compact is a highly portable and durable thermal monocular, ideal for outdoor use. Its compact size, ergonomic design, and quick-swap APS 3 battery make it practical for extended use. While the smaller display and frequent sensor calibration may be drawbacks, the overall performance, build quality, and long battery life make it a solid option for those seeking reliable thermal imaging.
