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7 Best Thermal Cameras for iPhone in 2023

Article By: Ava Olivia Published On: October 9, 2023 , Last updated on : October 19, 2023 | Reviewed by : Editorial Board
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7 Best Thermal Camera for iPhone in 2023

Thermal cameras are invaluable in engineering and medical science, often used in electrical wiring maintenance, security, and healthcare. But they aren’t just expensive but bulky and troublesome to carry around. Thankfully, some accessories offer a cheaper and more portable alternative. Thankfully, finding the best thermal camera for iPhone isn’t as hard as you might think.

The cameras on iPhones are much better than your average thermal camera. It is only natural that some want to combine that with a thermal camera. An app can’t replicate what such a camera does, so an accessory is in order. Fortunately, you’ve come to the right place to find the best thermal camera for iPhone.

What to look for when buying a thermal camera for your iPhone?

So, what makes a thermal camera to be the best? We looked into three factors to find the best thermal cameras for iPhone devices. Those three things are thermal sensitivity, battery efficiency, and image resolution.

Thermal Sensitivity

Alongside the color range, you need thermal sensitivity to capture the infrared radiations and process them into an image. With a sound color palette, you can even better depict the temperature of what’s on screen. If you’re one of those ghost-hunting types, this is the one factor you need to look out for.

Temperature Range:

Consider the temperature range the thermal camera can measure. Some cameras are designed for industrial use and can measure extremely high or low temperatures, while others are more suitable for everyday applications.

Battery Efficiency

Hard as it may be to believe, these add-on accessories need batteries to work. What batteries do the thermal cameras use, and how long do they last? If not batteries, if they use the phone’s internal batteries, how much of the battery does it use up?

Image Resolution

Despite using the iPhone’s camera, the resolution of these thermal cameras’ output varies. Most people just care about how well it can measure infrared and determine the temperature. Wouldn’t it be better if the images didn’t look like they came out of a toaster from the 50s? The better the resolution, the better the thermographic images will look.

App Integration

Check if the thermal camera comes with a dedicated app for your iPhone. A well-designed app can enhance your experience by offering additional features like temperature spot measurements and data analysis tools.

Size and Portability

Consider the size and weight of the thermal camera attachment. Ideally, it should be compact and lightweight for easy portability.

FLIR ONE Pro

FLIR ONE Pro

The best thermal camera for iPhone developed by FLIR and our top pick for the list. As efficient and thermally sensitive as the ONE Gen 3 thermal camera, it does not share its affordability. But this is merely one of many excellent thermal cameras brought to you by FLIR.
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Seek Thermal CompactPRO

Seek Thermal CompactPRO

Though not the best iPhone thermal camera, it has excellent thermal sensitivity and image quality and is waterproof. The thermal camera doesn’t need batteries while taking thermographs on your iPhone. Seek Thermal’s CompactPRO shows you don’t need to be big to be one of the best.
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FLIR ONE Gen 3

FLIR ONE Gen 3

The best thermal camera in terms of image quality and the second one made by FLIR. With an impressive thermal range and good image quality, you can get it for an affordable price. The best thermal camera in terms of image quality and the second one made by FLIR. With…
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Seek Thermal CompactXR

Seek Thermal CompactXR

The second thermal camera is to be made by Seek and used outdoors. From its image resolution to durability, this thermal camera is designed to take thermal images outdoors. The perfect camera to take when looking for a pipe malfunction outdoors or visiting a haunted mansion.
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FLIR ONE Pro LT - iOS

FLIR ONE Pro LT - iOS

A more approachable and casual-friendly entry of FLIR’s thermal imaging cameras. It has the thermal range and MTX technology that it shares with the other thermal cameras on this list. Despite falling short in some aspects, it still has what makes the FLIR brand synonymous with quality imagery.
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Klein Tools TI1222

Klein Tools TI1222

Though not as good as FLIR’s lineup, it holds massive potential to be the best thermal camera attachment for iPhone. Sporting excellent thermal range, battery life, and image quality, it’s a criminally underrated device. Despite its shortcomings, Kleins Tools stands as a benchmark for the best thermal camera for iPhone.
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Perfect Prime IR203

Perfect Prime IR203

A thermal camera with an impressive thermal range and image quality, held back only by how much energy it drains. Regardless, Perfect Prime’s Infrared thermal imager camera is a decent thermal camera for those who don’t mind bringing a portable power source.
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Best Thermal Camera for iPhone | Top 7 Picks

You need a thermal camera with the best image resolution and excellent thermal range, and compatible with iPhone no less. We’ve pinpointed what qualities to look for and narrowed down every thermal camera you can attach to iPhone devices. Now it’s time to look for the best thermal camera for iPhone devices.

List of the best thermal cameras for iPhone

  • FLIR ONE Pro
  • Seek Thermal CompactPRO
  • FLIR ONE Gen 3
  • Seek Thermal CompactXR
  • FLIR ONE Pro LT
  • Klein Tools TI1222
  • Perfect Prime IR203

FLIR ONE Pro

FLIR ONE Pro Thermal Camera

If you are looking for a thermal camera that can turn your iPhone into a powerful imaging device, you might want to consider the FLIR One Pro. By attaching this camera on your iPhone, you can see and measure temperatures in any scene. It has a thermal resolution of 160 by 120, which means it can capture four times more thermal pixels than its siblings like FLIR One or the FLIR One Pro LT. This allows it to produce sharper and more detailed thermal images that can reveal more information and making it the best amongst its siblings.

The FLIR One Pro can also measure higher temperatures than its cheaper counterparts, up to 400 degrees Celsius. This makes it suitable for more demanding applications, such as inspecting electrical systems, plumbing, HVAC, and automotive components. Besides, it can detect temperature differences as small as 0 degrees Celsius, which means it can show subtle variations and patterns that might otherwise go unnoticed.

One of the standalone features of this IR camera is the Multi-Spectral Dynamic Imaging (MSX) that overlays the visual image onto the thermal image. So, it can create a composite picture that shows both heat and structure. This helps you identify objects and locations more easily, and also enhances the contrast and resolution of the thermal image. If you have the cash and want high-quality thermographic images, this camera is the one for you. What’s more, you can use the OneFit Connector to reach and take pictures of places your iPhone can’t go.

Pros

  • Hi-Res & crisp image quality
  • Clear thermal image processing
  • Very durable
  • Adjustable height with OneFit Connector

Cons

  • Clunky interface

Despite being the best thermal camera for iPhone, the one thing holding it back is its interface. The long startup and difficult interface might be too cumbersome for some. Able to produce the best images in the highest resolution, the FLIR ONE Pro thermal camera is our certified top pick. If you have the chance and the money, don’t pass up on the FLIR ONE Pro thermal camera.

Quantitative Measurement

Durability: 8/10
Material: 8/10
Design: 9/10
Uniqueness: 9/10
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Seek Thermal CompactPRO

Seek Thermal CompactPRO

The Sleek Thermal CompactPro is the next product in our list of the best thermal cameras for iPhone. This thermal camera combines thermography with common photography techniques developed by Seek Thermal. It also comes with a free Seek Thermal app to help capture thermal images. So, if you want to take thermograms wherever you go, Seek Thermal CompactPRO is the best thermal camera for you.

This thermal camera stands out from others in this list with its 320×240 pixels high-resolution thermal sensor. Which made it better than the FLIR One Pro in terms of delivering crisp image quality. But FLIR one has a higher field view(55 degrees versus 32 degrees. That means you can capture more area in one shot. Moreover, the 70 mK thermal sensitivity is great for detecting temperature differences as small as 0.04°C. This is very useful for applications that require precise measurements, such as finding leaks, insulation issues, electrical faults, or overheating components.

The Seek Thermal CompactPRO also has an adjustable focus lens. With that, you can focus from as close as 6 inches to as far as 1,800 feet, giving you more flexibility and versatility when imaging an area. On top of that, you have options to have customized results depending on different modes like Hi-Low mode, point mode, and Level and span mode in the App. Moreover, with its small and compact design, Seek Thermal’s CompactPRO easily fits in and takes thermal readings with your iPhone camera.

Pros

  • High-resolution images
  • Impressive thermal range
  • Does not require batteries or charging
  • Comes with a waterproof case

Cons

  • Very expensive

It may not have the firepower and high-quality images like FLIR’s ONE Pro, but it can make no mistakes save for one. It is the most expensive thermal camera on the list, probably more than one can afford. Despite this and its small size, Seek Thermal’s CompactPRO is the best thermal camera for iPhone in terms of portability and design.

Quantitative Measurement

Durability: 8/10
Material: 8/10
Design: 9/10
Uniqueness: 9/10
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FLIR ONE Gen 3

FLIR ONE Gen 3 Thermal Camera

FLIR’s Gen 3 thermal camera is considered by many to be one of the best thermal cameras for iPhone. And once you pop it into your iPhone, it’s hard not to see why. Using MSX technology, this camera can produce accurate thermography in high quality. It has a 1,440 by 1,080 pixels camera that works with an 80 by 60 pixels thermal core to produce sharp and detailed images using FLIR’s Multi-Spectral Dynamic Imaging (MSX) feature. The FLIR ONE Gen 3 also has a built-in battery in its hardware that can last up to an hour of continuous use, so it does not drain your iPhone’s power.

In terms of design, the FLIR ONE Gen 3 is flexible enough to fit in your iPhone with a Lightning or USB-C port, thanks to a mechanical wheel that extends the connector. Another notable feature of this camera is the compatible app. Where you can access multiple metering modes that let you measure temperatures in different ways. For instance, you can use spot meters to measure specific points, area meters to measure average or min/max temperatures in a region, and many more.

Of all the thermal cameras made for iPhone, it is one of the most budget-friendly ones. However, the thermal camera isn’t compatible with most iPhone cases. Moreover, for all the amazing features the thermal camera sports, it comes at an affordable price. If you don’t mind that minor hiccup, this thermal camera has earned its place as one of our top iPhone thermal imaging cameras.

Pros

  • Lightweight and easy to carry
  • Hi-Res thermal images
  • Supporting app provides extra features

Cons

  • Not compatible with every iPhone covers

With Lightweight and easy to handle, FLIR’s ONE Gen 3 thermal camera produces the best thermal images, despite compromising image quality. However, you can look the FLIR ONE Pro if are really serious about image quality. Otherwise, If you can’t see your pets in the dark night with your naked eye, try taking the FLIR ONE Gen 3 for a spin, especially if you’re on a budget.

Quantitative Measurement

Durability: 8/10
Material: 9/10
Design: 9/10
Uniqueness: 9/10
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Seek Thermal CompactXR

Seek Thermal CompactXR

The Seek Thermal’s CompactXR is the best thermal camera for iPhone made for outdoor photography. It is Seek Thermal’s second thermal camera that we’ve featured on this list. Though it shares its design with the CompactPRO, it doesn’t share its image quality.

Still, its microbolometer sensor with 206 x 156 resolution and a 20-degree field of view can capture thermal images and videos with satisfactory quality. Besides, this camera can detect temperatures ranging from 40°C to 330°C. Additionally, it has a fast frame rate of 15 Hz. So, it can provide smooth and fluid thermal images without lag or delay.

Since the camera doesn’t need a battery, this thermal camera is perfect for the great outdoors. Along with your endoscope for iPhone, you can use it to find underground pipe malfunctions and wiring issues.

Moreover, this device works with the Seek Thermal app, which allows you to adjust the color palette, emissivity, span, level, and other settings. The SeekFusion feature especially impressed us with detailed and realistic pictures resulting from the combination of thermal and visible images. So, It can be a good alternative for beginners looking for a heat thermal camera within an affordable budget

Pros

  • High-resolution images
  • Measures temperatures of up to 330°C
  • No batteries or charging needed

Cons

  • Various technical difficulties, such as image freezing

However, one problem holding this camera back is its myriad technical difficulties. The camera has been known to suffer from issues that range from annoying to system breaking, such as image freezing. If you can get around this setback though, Seek Thermal’s CompactXR is the ideal thermographer for the great outdoors.

Quantitative Measurement

Durability: 9/10
Material: 8/10
Design: 8/10
Uniqueness: 8/10
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FLIR ONE Pro LT

FLIR ONE Pro LT

FLIR ONE PRO LT iOS Pro-Grade Thermal isn’t the best thermal camera for the iPhone, but it’s good enough. It is bound to take spaces on beginner’s mind because the combination of affordability, performance, and convenience. This thermal camera works especially well for iOS devices. However, it’s also worth mentioning that this thermal camera is the more casual-friendly addition to FLIR’s lineup.

As standard for FLIR thermal cameras, it has an impressive thermal range, from -20°C to 120°C. Plus there is a 1,440-by-1,080 visual camera that works with the thermal core using the MSX technology to produce detail and crisp images.

In addition to that, the included OneFit Connector helps to extends the camera for up to 4 mm to fit most protective cases. This means you don’t have to remove your case every time you want to use the thermal camera. Moreover, the camera’s portable nature makes it decent for outdoor purposes. With a built-in battery this device performs for about an hour of continuous use.

Pros

  • Impressive thermal ranges from -20°C and 120°C
  • High thermal sensitivity
  • OneFit Connector allows for height adjustments

Cons

  • Difficult to change the battery

When compared to all the other entries on this list, the camera’s battery is a major setback. Though the battery is quite decent, changing it is a nightmare. With its thermal range and connector, the FLIR ONE Pro LT has the making of a capable and affordable thermal camera.

Quantitative Measurement

Durability: 8/10
Material: 8/10
Design: 8/10
Uniqueness: 8/10
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Klein Tools TI1222

Klein Tools TI1222

Klein Tools are a relative newcomer regarding thermal cameras for the iPhone. Despite lacking FLIR’s pedigree, Klein Tools is a family-run business that has been running since 1857. So, they have experience in the field. With that said, it has a long way to go before it can be considered the best thermal camera for iPhone.

Klein Tools Thermal Imager has a wide thermal range, from -20°C to 400°C, which isn’t half-bad for a portable thermographer. It also has three color palettes for measuring temperature changes: rainbow, iron bow, and greyscale. Speaking of temperature change, it can also take time-lapse videos so you can keep track of those changes.

Pros

  • Good temperature range of -20°C to 400°C
  • Good image quality
  • Works with the free Klein Tools App
  • Can take time-lapse videos

Cons

  • Must remove the iPhone case to work in most cases

A minor complaint with the camera is that it isn’t compatible with most iPhone covers, especially bulky ones like Otter. Though not the worst, Klein Tools’ thermal camera has the potential to be the best thermal camera for the iPhone. It won’t be long before we see them improve on this to stand at the top of our future lists.

Quantitative Measurement

Durability: 8/10
Material: 8/10
Design: 7/10
Uniqueness: 8/10
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Perfect Prime IR203

Perfect Prime IR203

If you’re looking for a good and affordable thermal camera, Perfect Prime IR203 is the one for you. Though not as highly placed, there is a good reason we chose this as one of the best thermal cameras. Sporting the widest thermal range on this list, the Perfect Prime IR203’s cheap and compact design hides its amazing performance.

As compact and portable as the Seek Thermal’s CompactPRO, this thermal camera has the best thermal range. It could even rival our top pick when it comes to thermal sensitivity.

Pros

  • An impressive thermal range of -40°C to 400°C
  • Offers high performance at a low price
  • Powerful 80 x 60 thermal sensor

Cons

  • Poor battery life

With an impressive thermal range and high performance, you’d think this would put it at least fourth. Well, because it drains battery life very quickly, it holds back what could’ve been an overall decent thermal camera. Regardless, Perfect Prime’s IR203 thermal range and affordability have earned it a coveted position in our list.

Quantitative Measurement

Durability: 8/10
Material: 8/10
Design: 7/10
Uniqueness: 7/10
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Can I use iPhone as thermal camera?

Yes, you can make iPhone a powerful thermal camera. But, that requires to purchase an external thermal imaging camera that connects to the lighting port to take a true thermal photo.

Can thermal cameras see in the dark?

Thermal cameras can produce thermal images of the object in a total darkness. They can produce excellent images without needing any visible lights. So, these cameras are great instrument for any night time applications.

Thermographer in your pocket

Now that you’ve found the best thermal camera, grab your iPhone and start taking thermal images. Also, on the off chance you see something out of the ordinary, like a ghost, for example, best of luck. We hope you found our list of the best thermal camera for iPhone devices helpful.

If you liked our list, check out our review for the best camera lens protectors for your iPhone. You can also check out our tutorial on removing water from your iPhone camera.

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