{"id":5680347,"date":"2022-10-18T13:24:34","date_gmt":"2022-10-18T11:24:34","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.optics-trade.eu\/blog\/?p=5680347"},"modified":"2023-04-19T10:41:12","modified_gmt":"2023-04-19T08:41:12","slug":"hikmicro-thunder-th35c-thermal-imaging-review-optics-trade-reviews","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.optics-trade.eu\/blog\/hikmicro-thunder-th35c-thermal-imaging-review-optics-trade-reviews\/","title":{"rendered":"Hikmicro Thunder TH35C Thermal Imaging Review | Optics Trade Reviews"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

The Hikmicro Thunder TH35C<\/a><\/strong> is a thermal clip-on device, one of the five models available in the Thunder series<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Other clip-on models in the Thunder series are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    \n
  1. Hikmicro Thunder Pro TE19C<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
  2. Hikmicro Thunder Pro TQ35C<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
  3. Hikmicro Thunder Pro TH35PC<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
  4. Hikmicro Thunder Pro TQ50C<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
  5. Hikmicro Thunder TH35C<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
    \n\n\n\n
    Table of Contents<\/div>
    [Open]<\/a>[Close]<\/a><\/div><\/div>
    1. Hikmicro or Hikvision?<\/a><\/li>
    2. Physical Properties of Hikmicro Thunder 35C<\/a>
      1. Battery<\/a><\/li>
      2. Recording capabilities<\/a><\/li>
      3. Sensor<\/a><\/li>
      4. NETD<\/a><\/li>
      5. Display<\/a><\/li>
      6. Menu<\/a><\/li><\/ol><\/li>
      7. Using Thunder TH35C as a Monocular or Clip-on<\/a><\/li>
      8. Optical performance<\/a><\/li>
      9. Thunder TH35C price and warranty<\/a><\/li>
      10. Scope of delivery<\/a><\/li>
      11. Pros<\/a><\/li>
      12. Cons<\/a><\/li>
      13. Hikmicro Thunder TH35C vs Thunder TH35PC<\/a><\/li>
      14. Hikmicro Thunder TH35C vs Pulsar Proton<\/a><\/li>
      15. Hikmicro Thunder TH35C vs Nitehog Viper<\/a><\/li>
      16. Hikmicro Thunder TH35C vs Night Pearl Seer 35<\/a><\/li>
      17. Final Thoughts<\/a><\/li>
      18. Similar Reviews<\/a><\/li>
      19. Gallery<\/a><\/li><\/ol><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
        \n\n\n
        \n
        \"Hikmicro
        Hikmicro Thunder TH35C thermal clip-on<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

        Hikmicro or Hikvision?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

        Hikmicro <\/a><\/strong>was formerly known as Hikvision <\/strong>and is a large manufacturer of security technology<\/strong>, including CCTV <\/strong>and similar systems. With their thermal optics<\/a><\/strong>, they’ve expanded into the outdoor and hunting <\/strong>markets as well. They began with thermal monoculars<\/strong> before eventually developing clip-on <\/strong>and thermal riflescopes<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        The Thunder TH35C made quite a splash when it was released in 2020<\/strong>. Hikmicro’s first generation of thermal monoculars, called Owl<\/strong>, was not very good. But since 2018, when they were renamed from Hikvision to Hikmicro, they have been improving <\/strong>steadily and are now much better quality. The Thunder clip-on devices were the first indicators that they are a major<\/strong> player<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        You can buy Thunder devices either as a clip-on<\/strong> or as a standalone riflescope<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        Hikmicro also produces thermal devices for a variety of other manufacturers<\/strong>. As a result, you may get the same device under several names.<\/p>\n\n\n

        \n
        \"\"<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

        Physical Properties of Hikmicro Thunder 35C<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

        First, let’s discuss the physical attributes. Thunder TH35C thermal clip-on is large<\/strong>, nearly 18 centimeters long, and six centimeters wide. Additionally, it is quite hefty<\/strong>, weighing more than 300 grams without batteries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        It has two tripod threads<\/strong>, which may be used to mount it on a Picatinny rail or any other mounting surface since Thunder TH35C can also be found as a standalone riflescope. As a result, this mounting mechanism is required.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        The objective lens of the Thunder 35C has a diameter of 35 millimeters<\/strong>, with an aperture of f\/1 and a smooth focusing ring<\/strong>. The magnesium <\/strong>casing is well made. It’s also waterproof, so you don’t have to worry about any damage if it gets wet.<\/p>\n\n\n

        \n
        \"Hikmicro
        Hikmicro Thunder TH35C two tripod threads<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

        Battery<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

        The Thunder TH35C is powered by two CR123A batteries<\/strong>, similar to the old Core models made by Pulsar. However, this is not the best option available, and I will write more about this later in this review.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        The startup time of this device is approximately seven<\/strong> seconds<\/strong>. Ready-to-use time is a little bit longer.<\/p>\n\n\n

        \n
        \"Hikmicro
        Hikmicro Thunder TH35C battery compartment<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

        Please check our real start-up time article<\/mark><\/h4>\n\n\n
        \n
        \"Check<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

        Read our blog post for more information on real start-up times for thermal devices. Our data may differ from what the manufacturers claim, but it’s worth investigating.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        Please check our battery life article<\/mark><\/h4>\n\n\n
        \n
        \"Check<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n
        \n\n\n\n

        Hikmicro claims the battery on the Thunder TH35C lasts four hours<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        Recording capabilities<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

        The Thunder 35C thermal clip-on camera has both image <\/strong>and video recording capabilities<\/strong>. It also connects to your phone via Wi-Fi<\/strong>, so you can see what’s going on in real-time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        Sensor<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

        The sensor is a vanadium oxide sensor<\/strong> with 384×288 resolution<\/strong>. The Hikmicro Thunder TH35C model has a pixel pitch of 17 microns<\/strong>, whereas the Hikmicro Thunder Pro TH35PC model’s pixel pitch is 12 microns. It’s tough to decide which is better because there are pros and cons to both, and a clear winner isn’t evident. The refresh rate on the Thunder TH35C is 50 Hz<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        NETD<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

        Hikmicro states that Thunder TH35C NETD <\/strong>is lower than 35 mK<\/strong>. For those who don’t know, NETD stands for how sensitive the sensor is and how well details will be seen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        Hikmicro produces its thermal cores independently, which is special in this industry because most other companies need to buy cores from another supplier.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        Display<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

        The display is an OLED <\/strong>one that can function in temperatures as low as minus 20\u00b0C and as high as 50\u00b0C. Its resolution is 1024×768<\/strong>, which meets industry standards. It might not be the best on the market, but it’s more than satisfactory.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        Menu<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

        The device has six top buttons <\/strong>that offer a range of options, including Wi-Fi connectivity, taking images and videos, etc. Thunder TH35C also features 16 gigabytes<\/strong> of internal memory<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        In terms of menus, everything may be adjusted<\/strong>, from the contrast to color schemes. You can either calibrate <\/strong>your equipment manually <\/strong>or automatically <\/strong>– I suggest you go for the automatic option. It’s easier, but you have to be careful and not take the shot when calibration is in the process because then the image <\/strong>will be frozen<\/strong>, and you won’t be able to see anything.<\/p>\n\n\n

        \n
        \"Hikmicro
        Hikmicro Thunder TH35C with six top buttons<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

        Using Thunder TH35C as a Monocular or Clip-on<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

        You may utilize Thunder TH35C as a monocular <\/strong>or clip-on<\/strong>, but it performs best as a clip-on. This isn’t the greatest example of how to implement this dual-function system, so if you’re going to buy one of these devices, I’d advise buying it only to use it as a clip-on<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        Optical performance<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

        Hikmicro Thunder TH35C features an adjustable focus<\/strong>. As previously stated, the magnification is one <\/strong>because it is a clip-on device. It has a field of view of 175 meters at 1000 meters and can detect targets up to 1,200 meters<\/strong> away.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        In a monocular mode, you may also utilize four times digital zoom<\/strong>, but not when it’s in the clip-on mode because it wouldn’t work well with your riflescope.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        If you’re using TH35C with a riflescope, I would avoid going above five times magnification<\/strong>. Four-times magnification is already pushing it. For the best results, two to three times magnification<\/strong> is probably ideal<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n

        \n
        \"Hikmicro
        Hikmicro Thunder TH35C thermal clip-on<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

        Thunder TH35C price and warranty<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

        The Thunder TH35C is priced at 2200 euros<\/strong>. For this price, you’re likely getting the best image quality available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        The device is made in China<\/strong>, and it comes with a two years warranty<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        Scope of delivery<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

        You’ll receive the following items with the device:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

          \n
        1. big soft bag<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
        2. charging cable <\/strong>type C<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        3. instruction manual <\/strong>in multiple languages<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        4. Two CR123A <\/strong>batteries<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        5. cleaning cloth<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
        6. strap <\/strong>for the carry case<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

          You may also purchase the following accessories for this clip-on:<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
            \n
          1. Hikmicro Q-R Adapter for Thunder<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
          2. Hikmicro Thunder Eyepiece<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
            \n\n\n
            \n
            \"Hikmicro
            Hikmicro Thunder TH35C scope of delivery<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

            Pros<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

            What is it about the Thunder TH35C that I like? So, first and foremost, for 2200 euros, this device offers the highest image quality <\/strong>possible with a fast aperture 35-millimeter lens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

            A key selling point for this product is the excellent build quality<\/strong>. The magnesium housing <\/strong>gives it a luxurious feel, and the focus works beautifully<\/strong>. Every detail has been carefully considered in the design of this product.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

            Another thing I appreciate is that you can connect <\/strong>it to your smartphone <\/strong>and use it to take images <\/strong>and record videos<\/strong>. I find it convenient that this clip-on can be attached <\/strong>to a Picatinny rail<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

            Overall, I’m very pleased with the device and appreciate its overall design<\/strong>. The bag that comes with the device is also full of accessories and is well-made. If the internal battery dies<\/strong>, you may connect this clip-on to an external power bank <\/strong>as well. This is something I’ll address in the sour section.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

            Pros summary:<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
              \n
            1. high image <\/strong>quality<\/li>\n\n\n\n
            2. price<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
            3. adjustable focus<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
            4. great build quality<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
            5. can be attached to your smartphone<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
              \n\n\n
              \n
              \"Hikmicro
              Hikmicro Thunder TH35C charging port<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

              Cons<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

              There are a few things I don’t like about the Thunder TH35C. Anyone who’s ever used a thermal clip-on like Pulsar Core or anything similar knows that two CR123A batteries <\/strong>solution isn’t ideal<\/strong>. You’ll be replacing the batteries regularly. You can connect an additional power bank to it, but again, this isn’t the best solution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

              Hikmicro could use fast interchangeable batteries <\/strong>as Pulsar <\/a><\/strong>does. They are already using this solution with their Gryphon <\/a><\/strong>series of fusion thermal and digital night vision monoculars, and I hope they will extend it to other devices soon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

              I believe that even despite its well-finished design, Thunder TH35C is still rather hefty <\/strong>and lengthy<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

              I’m also not a fan of the adapters<\/strong> option<\/strong>. It works, and it doesn’t break, but it’s an overly complicated solution<\/strong>. It has all of these notches and a thread that goes in the counterclockwise direction<\/strong>, which is just too difficult <\/strong>and delicate<\/strong>. There would be no need for such a complicated system; instead, I believe that using a standard thread of 52 millimeters<\/strong> with an of 0.75 thread rate<\/strong> would be ideal.<\/p>\n\n\n

              \n
              \"Hikmicro
              Hikmicro Thunder TH35C adapter system<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

              The reducing rings that Rusan <\/strong>and Smartclip <\/strong>produce can be used with TH35C. Even though all these issues may be resolved, things might have been done better.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

              Other than that, I like the device. The battery and connection system of the adapters could be better, but for 2000 euros it’s a great deal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

              Cons summary:<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
                \n
              1. The battery system is not ideal, as it uses two CR123A batteries<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
              2. The adapter system <\/strong>could be better, as it is overly complicated<\/li>\n\n\n\n
              3. The device is hefty <\/strong>and lengthy<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
                \n\n\n\n
                \n
                \"Hikmicro
                Hikmicro Thunder TH35C<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
                \"Hikmicro
                Hikmicro Thunder TH35C<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
                \"Hikmicro
                Hikmicro Thunder TH35C<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n