Key Differences

Both the FLIR C2 and FLIR E4 thermal cameras are both powerful infrared imaging tools from FLIR. The main difference between the two cameras is in the form factor - the C2 is a slim, smartphone-sized device which can easily fit in a pocket, while the E4 takes a more traditional approach as a “point and shoot” thermal camera with a large handle and trigger to release the shutter. This makes the E4 more suited to industrial inspection and preventative maintenance duties where the camera is the primary inspection tool. The C2 is more suitable for professionals who need to have a thermal camera with them but don’t necessarily need to use it all the time - home inspectors, hobbyists, auto mechanics, and HVAC professionals can all benefit from a tool like the C2.

That said, the C2 and E4 only differ slightly in their specifications. Both cameras feature 80 × 60 pixel infrared resolution, 9Hz frame rate, and ±2% or 2°C thermal accuracy. Both cameras also feature FLIR MSX technology, giving you unmatched visible details in your thermal images. Before MSX, you needed a visible light reference image to compare side by side with your thermal image – FLIR MSX has eliminated this by blending visible details into thermal images.

Both cameras feature a spot measurement mode as well as emissivity correction and measurement correction. Both cameras also feature a 3-inch screen - that said, the C2 screen is a touchscreen while the E4 screen is a traditional LCD which you can navigate using buttons. Both cameras have a 10-year warranty on their thermal detectors.

Despite the similarities, there are many important differences between these cameras which could influence your buying decision. As far as thermal imaging capabilities, the C2 features 100mK thermal sensitivity while the E4 is actually slightly less sensitive at 150mK. The E4 gains ground back on temperature range with -4° F to 482°F, compared to 14 to 302°F on the C2. Field of View for these cameras is very similar - the C2 comes in at 41° x 31°, while the E4 is slightly wider at 45° × 34°.

Other than the numbers, there are a few differences in terms of special features. The latest model of the FLIR E4 features WiFi (at the same price as the non-WiFi version) which allows you to connect to smartphones and tablets via the FLIR Tools Mobile app. This makes sharing images and sending reports from any location easier, enabling you to make critical decisions faster. Both cameras can store up to 500 image sets internally and can also transfer images via USB. On the C2, you can’t transfer images via WiFi, but you are able to stream video to the FLIR Tools App.

Want to know more? Check out the tables below or give us a call at 877-571-7901. We’re happy to answer any questions you may have.