Infrared vs. Thermal Cameras
The physical security systems have gone through rapid development in the last few decades. Cameras have turned out to be something beyond simple optical lenses and digital sensors. Today, we have advanced imaging technologies like infrared and thermal cameras, which help us see beyond what the human eye can detect. Knowing the differences between these two cameras can help you choose the right one for your needs.
These two camera types are often confused because both involve identifying light that isn’t visible to the naked eye. Yet, they work in different ways. In this blog, we’ll break down how each technology works, their key differences, and their best applications to help you decide which one suits you best.
Understanding Infrared and Thermal Cameras
Before learning the differences, let’s know what these cameras actually stand for.
Infrared Imaging
Infrared imaging detects near-infrared light, which is just beyond the human’s visible spectrum. The camera works by capturing reflected infrared light from objects, just like how a regular camera detects visible light.
To put it simply, infrared cameras work by capturing infrared light (It is a segment of light that is invisible to the human eye) that is emitted by all objects as a type of radiation. Though they don’t measure temperature directly, they can improve visibility in low-light environments.
Examples of infrared imaging in daily life include:
- Night vision goggles and security cameras.
- Remote controls that use infrared signals to communicate with TVs.
- Infrared photography to create artistic or scientific images.
Thermal Imaging
Meanwhile, thermal cameras identify long-wave infrared radiation emitted by objects as heat. Everything above absolute zero (-273.15°C) emits some level of infrared energy, and thermal cameras capture this radiation to create images based on temperature differences. Unlike infrared cameras, thermal cameras don’t rely on visible or reflected light, meaning they can work even in complete darkness.
Common uses of thermal imaging include:
- Detecting heat leaks in buildings.
- Identifying overheating electrical components.
- Security and military applications.
So, What’s the Difference Between Infrared and Thermal Cameras?
Though both cameras use infrared technology, they have different purposes. Let’s break down their differences.
1. The Way They Detect Light
Infrared cameras work by detecting near-infrared light that bounces off objects. They need some light in the environment or an infrared source to function, whereas thermal cameras detect emitted heat energy from objects, working even in total darkness.
2. Image Output
Infrared images resemble regular black-and-white or false-colour pictures, as they depend on reflected light. On the other hand, thermal images display temperature variations using heat maps, with colours ranging from blue (cooler) to red or white (warmer).
3. Performance in Various Conditions
Infrared cameras don’t capture clear images in complete darkness unless an infrared light source is used. That said, thermal cameras perform well in darkness, smoke, and fog because they don’t rely on visible light.
4. Sensitivity and Detail
Infrared cameras provide clearer, more detailed images of objects in low light but can’t detect heat differences while thermal cameras detect temperature differences effectively but often lack fine details in object recognition.
Applications of Infrared Cameras
Infrared cameras are useful when you need good visibility in low-light conditions. Here are some common use cases we can quote:
1. Night Vision and Security
Infrared cameras are widely used in CCTV security, wildlife observation, and military operations. Many security cameras come with infrared LEDs to illuminate dark areas, so that you get clear footage even at night.
2. Photography and Art
Near-infrared photography is popular in art and research, as it reveals details invisible in normal lighting. It’s also used in forensic analysis to know details hidden in paintings or documents.
3. Consumer Electronics
Your TV remote control relies on infrared signals to communicate with your television. Many modern devices use infrared for wireless data transfer as well.
Applications of Thermal Cameras
Thermal cameras are perfect in situations where detecting heat differences is essential. Here are the main industries and applications where thermal imaging is valuable:
1. Building Inspections and Energy Audits
Thermal cameras help identify insulation gaps, heat leaks, and water damage in buildings. Home inspectors and contractors use them to improve energy efficiency and pinpoint potential issues before they become costly problems.
2. Electrical and Mechanical Maintenance
Thermal cameras identify overheating components in industrial and electrical systems. This helps prevent any equipment failures. It allows technicians to scan electrical panels, motors, and machinery for temperature irregularities before they lead to malfunctions or fires.
3. Medical and Veterinary Diagnostics
Thermal imaging is used in healthcare to detect fever, inflammation, and circulation issues. It’s also useful in veterinary medicine for identifying injuries and infections in animals without any invasive procedures.
4. Law Enforcement and Military Use
Police and military forces heavily use thermal imaging for security, search and rescue, and night operations. Since thermal cameras detect body heat, they help locate suspects in darkness or behind obstacles like trees and walls.
5. Firefighting and Search & Rescue
Firefighters use thermal cameras to see through smoke and locate people in burning buildings. Search and rescue teams also use them to find missing persons in difficult environments like forests or disaster zones.
What’s Your Choice?
Now that we’ve explored the differences and applications, how do you decide which type of camera is right for you? Consider the following factors:
1. Purpose
An infrared camera is the best choice if you need better visibility in low-light conditions but not total darkness. But if you need to detect heat sources, measure temperature variations, or work in complete darkness, go with a thermal camera.
2. Environmental Conditions
Think about the environment where your camera is positioned. Infrared cameras work best with some ambient or artificial light while thermal cameras like the one from Hikvision perform well in smoke, fog, complete darkness, and extreme weather conditions.
3. Budget
Infrared cameras are generally more affordable, making them ideal for general consumer use (like night vision security cameras).
Thermal cameras tend to be more expensive due to their advanced heat-detection technology.
Wrapping Up
In summary, all thermal cameras are actually infrared cameras. The difference is, that a thermal security camera is designed exclusively for thermal imaging, while an infrared camera includes a range of cameras that can detect and capture infrared radiation for various applications.
Both offer unique advantages, but choosing the right one depends on your needs. By understanding their key differences, strengths, and applications, you can make an informed decision that matches your specific requirements. Whether it’s for home security, industrial maintenance, or scientific research, both infrared and thermal imaging technologies offer powerful solutions beyond standard cameras and the choice is up to you.