Smartphone Thermal Camera Comparison Guide

Comparison Summary

The FLIR ONE Pro and FLIR ONE Pro LT are powerful smartphone-based thermal imaging cameras which attach to your phone via its charging port. Each camera is affordable when compared to higher-end standalone cameras, and each still provides impressive specifications for the price. At this price point, these cameras are perfect for DIY homeowners and hobbyists as well as professional auto mechanics, HVAC technicians, and home inspectors.

For the purpose of this comparison we are comparing the latest Gen 3 FLIR ONE Pro to the new FLIR ONE Pro LT. We have linked to the iOS (Apple) versions of each camera, as the specs for the Android versions are exactly the same. You can view Android versions via these links for your specific version: ONE Pro Android USB-C /// ONE Pro Android Micro-USB /// ONE Pro LT Android USB-C /// ONE Pro LT Android Micro-USB

Comparison

The FLIR ONE Pro and ONE Pro LT are thermal camera attachments for Android and Apple smartphones. Since both cameras need a smartphone to function, they are dependent on your phone’s capabilities including screen size, battery life, and processing power. That said, this has some clear advantages – each camera is extremely portable since they can be detached from your phone when not in use. Even when attached, ONE Pro and ONE Pro LT add less than 1.5 inches to the length of your phone! Each device is the same size, measuring only 2.7in x 1.3in x .6in.

The FLIR ONE Pro is the higher end model and as such, it has better thermal imaging specifications. The ONE Pro features 160x120 infrared resolution, 70mK thermal sensitivity, 12µm thermal pixel size, and a temperature measurement range of -4°F to 752°F (-20°C to 400°C). The FLIR ONE Pro LT fits into the series just below the ONE Pro and has slightly lower specifications. The ONE Pro LT features 80x60 infrared resolution, 100mK thermal sensitivity, 17µm thermal pixel size, and a temperature measurement range of -4°F to 248°F (-20°C to 120°C).

Other than these differences in thermal imaging specifications, the ONE Pro and ONE Pro LT are essentially the same camera. Each has FLIR’s powerful MSX technology built-in. This technology embosses visible light details onto thermal images, so you can see exactly what you’re looking at – reference images are no longer needed. This means that even with lower resolutions, FLIR thermal images with MSX will still provide high levels on detail and clarity where you can tell exactly what you're looking at.

In other crucial areas, the ONE Pro and ONE Pro LT are the same as well. Each has its own internal battery with a 1-hour life – while this saves your phone’s battery, it will need to be charged after consistent use. Battery charge time is about 40 minutes. Each camera has an 8.7Hz frame rate, adjustable emissivity, ±3°C or ±5% thermal accuracy, fixed focus, and a drop test rating to 1.8 meters (5.9ft).

Since each camera requires smartphone connectivity, this means you have instant access to FLIR’s powerful mobile apps including the FLIR ONE and FLIR Tools Apps. Use the FLIR ONE App to access real-time thermal tips and tricks, share images with other users, and get help from professionals around the world. You can also use the FLIR Tools App to analyze and edit images before using it to send out professional reports directly from your device. This system saves time during image processing and review so you can make decisions quickly.

Conclusion

These cameras are both powerful enough for many consumer and professional applications. That said, the FLIR ONE Pro is more suited to higher end applications and rigorous inspections where higher levels are detail are requied thanks to its higher resolution, sensitivity, and temperature range.

The FLIR ONE Pro LT is more suited to occasional use in professional or consumer applications. Despite its lower resolution, the built-in MSX technology means the ONE Pro LT will still provide quality images, more than enough for a consumer and suitable for most professional reports. In the end, you choice should come down to application and budget in determining the specifications you need.

Want to know more? Check out the table below or give us a call at 877-571-7901. We have certified thermographers on-staff ready to answer any questions you have about these cameras and their applications.