Test of the Merger DUO NXP50 Multichannel Thermal and Night Vision Pulsar Binoculars:
A Revolution in Night Vision
The Merger DUO NXP50 multi-channel thermal and night vision binoculars from Pulsar are designed for enthusiasts of night observation, whether for hunting, surveillance, wildlife watching or stargazing. Field-tested over a weekend, deep in the woods and on a moonless night, these binoculars impressed us with their versatility and exceptional performance.
If you're looking for thermal binoculars for hunting or Full HD night vision binoculars, this model could well become your best friend!
Unpacking and first impressions
When you open the Merger DUO NXP50 box, you'll find a complete and well-thought-out set of contents: the binoculars, a removable IR illuminator, an APS3 rechargeable battery, a charger, a USB Type-C cable, a pouch with straps, a neck strap, a wipe for cleaning the optics, a quick-start guide, a warranty certificate and a tripod adapter. The design is elegant, with an aesthetic reminiscent of classic binoculars, but with a modern twist thanks to their magnesium alloy housing.
Weighing in at 1.2 kg, they are a little heavier than standard binoculars, but their grip is comfortable, with buttons ideally placed for intuitive use. The rugged finish immediately inspires confidence, perfect for night-time hunting or wildlife observation.
Optical quality
Merger DUO NXP50s shine with exceptional optical quality, thanks to the combination of a thermal channel and a Full HD digital night channel. The thermal channel, with a 640 x 480 pixel sensor and a NETD of less than 25 mK, offers impressive thermal detection, even in difficult conditions such as fog or rain. Magnification ranges from 3x to 24x for the thermal channel and from 2x to 16x for the night channel, making it possible to spot a deer over 1800 meters away in total darkness!
The Full HD digital channel, combined with an invisible 940 nm IR illuminator, guarantees precise identification of details such as animal characteristics or terrain features. The field of view is wide enough to scan a large area, ideal for night-time surveillance or birdwatching.
Ease of use
The ergonomics of the Merger DUO NXP50 are a real highlight. Their binocular design reduces eye fatigue, even after several hours of observation, which is an asset for night-time hiking or long hunting sessions. The inter-pupillary distance is adjustable from 62 to 74 mm, to suit all users, and the eyepieces offer a natural, immersive viewing experience.
The six control buttons are easily accessible, allowing you to quickly switch between thermal and digital modes, or activate the Picture-in-Picture function, which displays both channels simultaneously. Whether you're on the move or statically observing, these binoculars remain a pleasure to use, even during prolonged nocturnal wildlife observation.
Rugged and practical
Designed for extreme conditions, Merger DUO NXP50 binoculars are IPX7-certified, meaning they can withstand immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes - perfect for use in the rain or near a lake.
They also operate in temperatures ranging from -25°C to +50°C, making them ideal for all seasons, whether in the mountains or the forest. The magnesium-alloy casing protects internal components from shock and dissipates heat efficiently during prolonged use. The supplied case is a real plus: it distributes the weight over the body for comfortable transport, without hindering your movements. These binoculars are therefore ideal for hunting in difficult conditions or monitoring rugged terrain.
Technical specifications
| Magnification | 3x to 24x (thermal channel) / 2x to 16x (night channel) |
|---|---|
| Objective lens diameter | 50 mm |
| Maximum viewing distance | 1800 m (thermal detection) |
| Field of view | 12.4° (horizontal, at 3x thermal) |
| Minimum focusing distance | 5 m |
| Weight | 1.2 kg |
| Dimensions | 207 x 140 x 73 mm |
| Waterproof | Yes (IPX7) |
| Warranty | 3 years |
Comparison with other models
Compared with the Merger LRF XT50 Thermal Imaging Pulsar Binoculars, also available on binoculars.com, the Merger DUO NXP50 stands out for its dual thermal and digital channels, offering unrivalled versatility for day and night observation.
The Merger LRF XT50, on the other hand, incorporates a laser rangefinder, an asset for hunters who need to measure distances accurately. Both models offer exceptional optical quality, but the Merger DUO NXP50 is better suited to fine detail identification thanks to its Full HD digital channel, while the LRF XT50 will appeal to those who prefer real-time distance measurement.
Highlights
- Dual thermal and digital channels for versatile day and night observation, perfect for hunting and surveillance.
- Exceptional image quality with NETD < 25 mK thermal sensor and Full HD resolution, even in total darkness.
- Invisible 940 nm IR illuminator for discreet, detailed night vision, ideal for unobtrusive wildlife observation.
- Robust magnesium alloy construction, IPX7 waterproof, resistant to extreme conditions.
- Picture-in-Picture function to combine both channels, offering an immersive viewing experience.
Points to note
- Weighing in at 1.2 kg, slightly heavier than conventional binoculars, but still guaranteeing sturdiness.
- Maximum magnification (24x thermal) may require a tripod for optimum stability, but this is rare in everyday use.
Verdict
The Merger DUO NXP50 multi-channel thermal and night vision binoculars are a real technological gem for nature lovers and hunters. Their ability to combine thermal and Full HD digital vision makes them a versatile tool, perfect for night hunting, field surveillance or night birdwatching.
With their robustness, optical quality and ergonomic design, they offer excellent value for money for those looking for reliable, high-performance equipment. A must-have for exploring the world, day and night!
