FLIR ONE Edge Pro and FLIR One Pro LT - Pro-Grade Thermal Cameras for Smartphones

Published on Aug. 2, 2023, 5:58 p.m.

Thermal imaging technology allows us to see the invisible infrared radiation emitted by all objects, providing valuable insights in various fields. The FLIR ONE Edge Pro and FLIR One Pro LT cameras bring this advanced technology to your smartphone, offering a new perspective for detecting and analyzing thermal energy. This review delves into these two FLIR products, highlighting how they can transform your device into a powerful thermal imaging tool.

Thermal imaging cameras like the FLIR ONE Edge Pro and FLIR One Pro LT allow you to see the world in a whole new way. By detecting infrared radiation, these cameras produce thermal images that reveal heat signatures of objects and scenes. In this review, I’ll provide an in-depth look at these two innovative thermal cameras from FLIR and how they can be used with your smartphone.

Overview

The FLIR ONE Edge Pro and FLIR One Pro LT are compact thermal cameras that connect to iOS and Android smartphones and tablets. The Edge Pro connects wirelessly via WiFi while the Pro LT uses a lightning connector. Both models use FLIR’s advanced thermal imaging technology to detect subtle temperature differences and thermal patterns not visible to the naked eye.

Key Features

FLIR ONE Edge Pro

160 x 120 thermal resolution
MSX technology embosses visual details onto thermal images
Wireless connectivity via WiFi
FLIR Ignite app for editing and sharing
Works with iOS and Android devices

FLIR One Pro LT

80 x 60 thermal resolution
MSX image enhancement
VividIR image processing for enhanced clarity
OneFit adjustable connector up to 4mm
Multiple spot meters and analysis tools
For iOS devices only

Technical Background

Thermal cameras operate by detecting infrared radiation and translating it into an image that can be visually interpreted. They vary in resolution, sensitivity, and temperature range, which are crucial factors determining their effectiveness. Understanding these specifications is key to choosing the right thermal imaging camera for your needs.

Image Quality and Performance

The higher resolution FLIR ONE Edge Pro produces more detailed thermal images than the Pro LT model. However, both offer excellent thermal sensitivity down to 100 mK to capture subtle temperature differences. The MSX technology overlays visual details onto the thermal images, creating an enhanced level of detail and context.

The Pro LT model provides professional-level tools like spot meters, level/span controls, and reporting features. The OneFit connector is also adjustable to fit snugly even with a phone case on.

Technical Specifications Analysis

The resolution of a thermal camera, measured in pixels, directly impacts the clarity of the thermal images it produces. Sensitivity, expressed in millikelvins (mK), determines the camera’s ability to detect small temperature differences. The temperature range indicates the minimum and maximum temperatures the camera can measure accurately. Comparing these specifications between the FLIR ONE Edge Pro and the FLIR One Pro LT reveals their intended use cases and potential applications.

Ease of Use

Both thermal cameras connect seamlessly to smartphones and integrate with FLIR’s mobile app for adjusting settings, capturing and reviewing images and videos. The app provides different color palettes and tools to adjust the image to highlight heat signatures and temperature data.

The Edge Pro’s wireless connectivity means you don’t have to remove your phone from its case to use it. However, the Pro LT model offers more controls and analysis features tailored for professional use.

Market Analysis

Exploring the thermal imaging camera market reveals trends, key players, and growth drivers. Understanding these factors provides context for the FLIR ONE Edge Pro and FLIR One Pro LT’s place in the industry and helps anticipate future developments in thermal imaging technology.

Applications

These thermal cameras are perfect for diagnosing building insulation, finding water damage, detecting electrical faults, observing wildlife at night, and all kinds of troubleshooting and inspection applications. They bring thermal imaging into an ultra-portable form factor that fits in your pocket.

Use Cases:

Building inspections - find insulation issues, air leaks, moisture
Electrical inspections - locate fuse box issues, overheating wires
Automotive inspections - find engine issues, HVAC problems
Home repairs - identify water leaks, pipe issues, drafty areas
Wildlife observation
And much more!

User Feedback:

“I’ve been so impressed with the image quality and portability of the FLIR ONE Pro. It’s helped me catch electrical problems before they cause real damage.”

“The wireless connectivity of the Edge Pro model makes thermal imaging completely seamless. I can use it on any smartphone or tablet I have.”

“It does take some practice learning how to interpret the thermal images, but the FLIR app tools really help you analyze and diagnose issues.”

Pros:

Compact size
Great connectivity and app integration
Intuitive controls and adjustment tools
Excellent thermal image quality

Cons:

Short battery life (around 1 hour)
App could use some interface improvements
Edge Pro model is pricey

Pricing:

FLIR ONE Edge Pro: $799
FLIR ONE Pro LT: $349

Price and Value

The FLIR ONE Edge Pro bundle costs $793 while the Pro LT model is $349. For the professional-grade thermal imaging capabilities packed into these compact accessories, they offer excellent value compared to higher priced standalone thermal cameras.

Conclusion

For anyone needing thermal imaging on the go, the FLIR ONE Edge Pro and Pro LT are excellent choices that integrate seamlessly with your smartphone. Their compact size, wireless connectivity, excellent image quality and mobile apps make thermal imaging more accessible and user-friendly than ever.