Thermal Imager Comparison Guide

Comparison Summary

Overview

The FLIR E4 and FLIR E5 are both part of in the FLIR Ex Series of building and industrial thermal imagers. The E4 is the entry level model while the E5 is the next step up – as such, there are some differences in the specifications of these cameras. The E5 will provide higher resolution images with greater thermal sensitivity, but the E4 is still more than capable of performing demanding industrial duties

Both cameras have the same form factor – being in the same series, they are actually the exact same camera just with different specifications. Each camera weighs just 1.27lbs and features a 3-inch LCD screen, a rechargeable Li-ion battery with 4-hour life, and USB ports for data transfer to PCs. These latest models (2017 and later) also feature WiFi connectivity so you can transfer images wirelessly to the FLIR Tools App and create professional reports faster than ever before.

The chief differences between these cameras are in their IR imaging specifications. The primary difference is infrared image resolution – the E4 has 80x60 resolution, while the E5 has a resolution of 120x90. This means the E5 will give you larger thermal images where more details are clearly visible – whether or not you need this extra resolution will depend on your application. The other main difference is thermal sensitivity – the E5 has 100mK sensitivity while the E4 has 150mK sensitivity. This means the E5 will be more sensitive to temperature variations within a scene. This will also help to provide clearer, sharper images with more accurate temperature data.

Apart from the difference in resolution and sensitivity, these cameras are identical. Both feature FLIR MSX image enhancement which embosses visible details onto thermal images. This eliminates the need for reference images because with MSX, you can clearly see what you are looking at in an image – numbers, labels, and fine details are now clearly visible in your IR images.

Both cameras feature a 9Hz frame rate, -4°F to 482°F temperature measurement range, accuracy to ±2% or ±2°C, and adjustable emissivity. In addition, both cameras are tough enough to stand up to heavy daily use in demanding environments – each features an IP54 rating as well as a 2-meter drop test rating.

Conclusion

The E5 is a higher resolution camera with greater thermal sensitivity, giving you larger images with more visible sharp details. Thanks to higher sensitivity, the E5 will show greater temperature variation in your thermal images. That said, the E4 is still perfectly suitable for most industrial and inspection applications. Your specific application will dictate if the higher resolution E5 is needed.

Both cameras include powerful FLIR features like MSX image enhancement and WiFi connectivity as well as the company’s unbeatable 10-5-2 warranty for 10 years on the IR detector, 5 years on the battery, and 2 years on the product.

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.