Overview

The FLIR E5 and Fluke TiS20 are similar IR camera offerings from two of the biggest names in the industry – FLIR and Fluke. Both cameras have very similar specifications and features, but there are some important differences. Speaking of brands, one major difference to be aware of straight away is the warranty options available from each manufacturer. FLIR backs the E5 (and most of its IR cameras) with a 10-year warranty on the IR detector, 5-year warranty on batteries, and 2-year warranty on the camera itself. Fluke backs the TiS10 with a 2-year standard warranty on the camera and all components, although extended warranties are available.

Starting with the most important specifications, both cameras have the same infrared resolution of 120x90 pixels. Both cameras also feature the same thermal sensitivity at 100mK (0.10 °C). This means both cameras will be sensitive to temperature variations of 0.10 °C across any scene. Both cameras also have a 9Hz frame rate – this means these cameras are free of export controls from the US government, but they will not provide crisp images of moving subjects.

In addition, both cameras feature fixed focus, meaning the focus cannot be adjusted to dial in images – you must physically move the camera back and forth to get better focus. Both cameras also have the same thermal accuracy rating of ±2% or ±2°C. The E5 and TiS20 are also similar when it comes to durability ratings – both cameras can stand up to abuse in the field thanks to identical IP54 enclosure and 2-meter drop test ratings. Both cameras also feature emissivity adjustment/correction functions on-camera.

Both cameras come with some type of reporting and analysis software included. Fluke includes its SmartView IR Analysis Reporting Software – within the software, you can optimize and analyze images with graphical tools as well as use Fluke’s unique 3D-IR™ to view different perspectives. You can also generate reports directly from the software. FLIR’s reporting software is called FLIR Tools – it has many of the same functionalities and allows for image analysis and easy, fast report creation. FLIR Tools is also available as a mobile app.

Sample Images from the E5 w/ MSX:

Sample Images from the TiS20 (left: 75% blend / right: full IR):

Both the TiS20 and E5 are also WiFi-enabled. This adds another layer of versatility to these cameras – with both, you can transfer images wirelessly from the cameras to connected tablets and phones with each manufacturer’s corresponding app including Fluke Connect and FLIR Tools. With the TiS20 and Fluke Connect, you can save and share images wirelessly and set up automatic uploads to the Fluke Connect cloud. Fluke Connect also has the unique ability to connect with other Fluke Connect enabled Fluke tools so you can see their measurements on the camera screen. With the E5 and FLIR Tools, you can also save and share images wirelessly as well as send out reports from your mobile device.

One major difference between these cameras is temperature measurement range. The TiS20 covers -4 °F to 662 °F, making it suitable for all but the highest temperature electrical and industrial applications. The E5 covers a smaller range of -4°F to 482°F.

Another important difference is the inclusion of image enhancement/blending technologies. While both cameras do include some kind of this technology, the type of technology is very different from camera to camera. FLIR includes its patented MSX technology on the E5 – MSX is different from typical image blending technologies in that it does not dilute or lower the opacity of IR images. MSX actually embosses visible details onto IR images in real-time – this makes infrared images from the E5 very descriptive and easy to read. You can clearly make out labels, numbers, and structural elements which eliminates the need for a reference image.

On the TiS20, you get Fluke’s version of this technology, called IR-Fusion. IR-Fusion is a more traditional IR image blending technology which allows you to adjust the opacity of your IR images overlaid over visible-light images. On the TiS10, 100% IR, 50% IR and full visible-light are available on camera; continuously variable blending is possible in Fluke’s included SmartView software. This still gives you a better reference of your surroundings in IR images, but does not provide the level of clarity that is possible with FLIR MSX.

Conclusion

Both cameras are similar where it really counts - each has the same IR resolution, thermal sensitivity, accuracy, frame rate, and durability ratings. The TiS20 does have a slightly larger temperature measurement range. Both cameras include some type of image blending technology, although FLIR's MSX technology provides much more detail and sharper images. Both cameras also have similar reporting/analysis software included with purchase as well as WiFi connectivity for easy image transfer. The differences in these features are subtle - overall, the right camera for you will come down to your specific application and budget.

Want to know more? Check out the tables below or give us a call at 877-571-7901. We have ITC certified thermographers on-staff, happy to answer any questions you may have.