10 Best Cheap Thermal Imaging Camera 2025 in the United States

The FLIR ONE Gen 3 is a compact thermal camera designed to plug directly into newer iPhones with USB-C, making it very convenient for quick home inspections, automotive checks, or HVAC work. It delivers thermal images at 80x60 resolution, which is lower than visible camera resolution but typical for entry-level thermal devices in its price range. Its temperature measurement covers 5 °C to 120 °C, sufficient for common household and industry uses, with an accuracy of ±3°C or ±5%, which is good for general spotting of heat issues but not for precise scientific work.

The TOPDON TC004 Mini is a compact and budget-friendly thermal imaging camera that offers solid performance for basic home and light professional use. Its thermal resolution starts at 128x128 but gets enhanced to 240x240 using TISR technology, helping to show clearer details compared to some cheaper models. With a temperature range from -4°F to 842°F, it covers most common tasks like electrical checks, leak detection, and heating system inspections. The camera’s 40°x30° field of view is fairly wide, allowing you to scan areas comfortably without much repositioning.

The FLIR C5 Compact Thermal Imaging Camera is a budget-friendly device offering solid performance for various inspection tasks such as electrical, mechanical, building, and HVAC applications. The camera boasts a high-temperature range, capable of measuring from -20 to 400°C (-4 to 752°F), which makes it versatile for different environments. One of its notable strengths is the 160 x 120 true thermal imaging resolution, providing 19,200 pixels for detailed imaging, supported by the patented MSX technology that enhances image clarity by embossing visual details over the thermal images. This feature is particularly beneficial for identifying and troubleshooting hidden faults quickly, thus saving time during diagnostics.