Test of the Hikmicro CONDOR CQ35L Thermal Vision Monocular with V2.0 laser rangefinder: a revolution in night observation
The Hikmicro CONDOR CQ35L Thermal Vision Monocular with V2.0 laser rangefinder, designed by the renowned Hikmicro brand, is the ideal tool for hunting, night observation, surveillance, birdwatching or hiking enthusiasts. Tested in the wilderness for two days in Sologne, France, this monocular impressed us with its ability to reveal the smallest details, even in total darkness. Whether you're a hunter stalking game or a birdwatcher watching owls at dusk, this model is ready to transform your adventures!
Unpacking and first impressions
When you open the box of the Hikmicro CONDOR CQ35L Thermal Vision Monocular, you'll find a complete, well-thought-out package: the monocular, three rechargeable 18650 Li-ion batteries, a charger, a wrist strap, a USB-C cable, a cleaning cloth and a sturdy protective case. The design is elegant, with a magnesium alloy body that's both light and strong. Weighing just 400 g (without battery), it's easy to handle, even with just one hand. It's comfortable to hold thanks to its soft coating, and there's an immediate impression of quality and durability, perfect for long outdoor outings.
Optical quality
The Hikmicro CONDOR CQ35L Thermal Vision Monocular shines with outstanding optical quality. Equipped with a 640 × 512 pixel thermal detector at 12 µm and a high-resolution OLED screen (1024 × 768), it offers impressive clarity, even in difficult weather conditions. Its thermal sensitivity (NETD < 20 mK) detects the slightest variations in heat, making fine details visible up to 1800 m away. The basic 2x magnification, extendable up to 16x with the digital zoom, is ideal for spotting a deer at 500 m in the dark or observing a perched bird of prey from a distance. Color palettes (warm black, warm white, warm red, fusion) add flexibility to suit your viewing preferences.
User-friendliness
In terms of ergonomics, the Hikmicro CONDOR CQ35L Thermal Vision Monocular is a pleasure to use. Its cylindrical shape fits perfectly in the hand, whether you're right- or left-handed, and the buttons are intuitive, even in the dark. The diopter adjustment (-5D to +3D) and 15 mm eye relief are equally suitable for spectacle wearers and other users. During a long night-time observation session, such as a night spent surveying a clearing, we didn't feel any eyestrain. The integrated laser rangefinder, accurate to 1000 m, is a valuable asset for assessing distances at a glance, whether for hunting or birdwatching.
Rugged and practical
The Hikmicro CONDOR CQ35L thermal vision monocular is designed to withstand the most demanding conditions. IP67 certified, it is fully waterproof and dustproof, making it a reliable companion in rainy or humid environments. Its magnesium-alloy structure guarantees rock-solid strength while remaining lightweight. The supplied holster makes it easy to carry, and the rechargeable batteries provide up to 6 hours of autonomy (with the rangefinder activated), perfect for a long day's hiking or a night's surveillance. The automatic screen shutdown function, which activates when the screen is tilted, is an added bonus for saving energy.
Technical specifications
| Magnification | 2x to 16x (8x digital zoom) |
|---|---|
| Lens diameter | 35 mm (F1.0) |
| Maximum viewing distance | 1800 m |
| Field of view | 12.5° × 10.0° (21.9 m × 17.5 m at 100 m) |
| Minimum focusing distance | 3,5 m |
| Weight | 400 g (without battery) |
| Dimensions | 184.9 mm × 53 mm × 87.8 mm |
| Waterproofing | Yes (IP67) |
| Warranty | 3 years |
Comparison with other models
Compared with the CONDOR CH35L Hikmicro Thermal Vision Monocular with laser rangefinder, also available on binoculars.com, the CONDOR CQ35L boasts higher resolution (640 × 512 vs. 384 × 288) and a longer detection range (1800 m vs. 1200 m), making it more suitable for long-distance observations, such as hunting on the plains. The CH35L, on the other hand, is slightly more compact and lightweight, perfect for hikers or birdwatchers who prefer portability. Both models offer outstanding image quality and precise rangefinding, guaranteeing an exceptional observation experience in their respective fields.
Highlights
- High-sensitivity thermal detector (NETD < 20 mK) for exceptionally clear images, even in total darkness.
- Built-in laser rangefinder accurate to 1000 m, ideal for hunting and surveillance.
- 6-hour rechargeable battery life, perfect for long outings.
- Rugged magnesium alloy construction and IP67 waterproofing, suitable for all conditions.
- Advanced technologies such as Image Pro and Zoom Pro for detailed observation without loss of quality.
Points to note
- A weight of 400 g, which may seem a little high for very long hikes, but which guarantees rock-solid sturdiness.
- The minimum focusing distance of 3.5 m could be shorter for observing very close subjects, but this is rare in night-time use.
Verdict
The CONDOR CQ35L Hikmicro Thermal Vision Monocular with V2.0 laser rangefinder is a must-have for nightwatchers, hunters and birdwatchers. Its exceptional optical quality, meticulous ergonomics and robustness make it a reliable tool for all your adventures, day or night. With excellent value for money, this monocular is a sound investment for exploring nature from a new angle. A must-have for wildlife and landscape lovers!
User manual: how to use the Hikmicro CONDOR CQ35L Thermal Vision Monocular
Using the Hikmicro CONDOR CQ35L Thermal Vision Monocular with V2.0 laser rangefinder is simple and intuitive, even for beginners. Here are the steps to get the most out of it:
1. Preparation and start-up: Insert a charged 18650 Li-ion battery into the battery compartment (three batteries are supplied). Press the power button for 3 seconds to start the device. The OLED screen lights up instantly, displaying a clear thermal image.
2. Vision adjustment: Adjust the diopter by turning the knob near the eyepiece to adapt the image to your eyesight, especially if you wear glasses. Choose a color palette (warm black, warm white, warm red or fusion) via the menu to optimize contrast according to conditions.
3. Using the laser rangefinder : To measure distance, press the dedicated rangefinder button. Point the monocular at your target (for example, a wild boar at the edge of a wood): the distance is displayed on screen, accurate to 1000 m. Ideal for assessing whether an animal is within shooting range when hunting.
4. Observation and zoom: start with basic magnification (2x) to scan a large area, such as a clearing on a night hike. Use the digital zoom (up to 16x) to observe details, such as the feathers of an owl perched 300 m away. The Zoom Pro function guarantees a clear image, even at high magnification.
5. Recording and sharing: Capture your observations in photo or video thanks to the 16 GB internal memory. For example, record a video of a fox crossing a field to share with friends via the HIKMICRO Sight app, which also allows live viewing on your smartphone.
6. Care and storage : After use, wipe the lens with the cloth supplied to avoid streaking. Store the monocular in its case to protect it when you're on the move. If you're not using it, the automatic switch-off function is activated to conserve the battery.
Whether you're deep in the forest stalking game or in the mountains watching ibex in the moonlight, this monocular will quickly become your best ally for unforgettable night-time observations.
