Not bad for the price
This device enables you to see quite well at night, and costs a lot less than other options. Overall, I'm quite satisfied with it. That said, there are a couple of things you should know if you're going to buy one.
First, the optics are pretty poor. The objective lens (the one on the front) causes significant pincushion distortion, and focus is poor toward the edge of the field of view. I've actually never seen worse optics on anything that wasn't sold as a toy. The ocular lens (on the back) focuses on an electronic display element that looks dirty even when it's not. Although it's not intended for taking photographs, a better display would be nice.
Secondly, if your shipment arrives during the day your first inclination will be to try it out just to make sure it works. The manual, which you are unlikely to read, warns that turning the device on with the lens cap removed during the day can permanently damage the sensor and invalidate the warranty. Putting a warning on...
Compact, light and inexpensive
Generally, a thumbs up! I'm surprised at how small and light it is. Easily fits in your hand, and the behind-the-hand strap is ideal. For right handers only. On this model, the buttons should be back further, for use with index/middle. Too hard to press with little finger - you end up using your other hand to turn the illuminator and unit on/off. It's only 15,000 light amp. - sufficient, but at times I'm wishing for _a little_ more. But, for around ..., all the little things are easily forgivable. Caution: The infrared illuminator IS NOT invisible, as claimed! They say "invisible beam" - indeed, the BEAM is invisible. But, if you aim it at someone, they will see a VERY bright red light! You are not invisible with the illuminator ON! Tip: While your hand is there, you can partially cover the illuminator with your finger, controlling its light output. Handy for when you need just a little boost.
Neat product at an unbeatable price!
Well, do you get what you pay for?!
Nah, this product much is better than the price you pay!! Just compare it with other products in the market. (I did a lot of searching for a starter NV system and the NightOwl Cyclops seemed the most logical).
The pluses are the unbeatable price, performance, compactness, use of 1.5 AA batteries (handy), good optics and overall construction. With the IR-on it feels almost like day-light in pitch darkness (no problem lighting up your backyard - and your neighbour's too!). With the IR-off you can still see well with the 15,000x amplification with available moonlight. The padded case is compact and useful.
The minuses include poor manual (there's just a fold-out card) and average exterior finish (the battery compartment is a little flimsy and power buttons are not convenient).
Overall I would highly recommend it. You really don't lose much and you've a lot to gain!
Click to Editorial Reviews
No comments:
Post a Comment