Night Owl Optics NOB3X-DG 3x42
A $60 night vision binocular for occasional wildlife watching from a porch or a tripod. Night Owl publishes little about its image quality.
Amazon $59.99$59.99
The Night Owl Optics NOB3X-DG 3x42 is the better digital night vision device overall, rated 3.3 to 2.4. The Night Owl Optics NOB3X-DG 3x42 leads on value and claimed range. The Nightfox Swift Max wins on warranty. The Night Owl Optics NOB3X-DG 3x42 costs $70 less ($59.99 vs $129.99).
Prices were last checked November 9, 2026. Product prices and availability are accurate as of that date and are subject to change; the price and availability shown on Amazon or the retailer's site at the time of purchase apply. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Nightfox Swift Max
Entry-level hands-free goggles for close-range use around camp or the yard. The Swift 2 gives a far sharper picture for $30 more.
Amazon $129.99$129.99
Which should you buy?
- Choose the Night Owl Optics NOB3X-DG 3x42 for value ($59.99 vs $129.99) and claimed range (394 ft claimed vs 262 ft claimed).
- Choose the Nightfox Swift Max for warranty (1.5-year warranty vs 1-year warranty).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every binoculars and goggles digital night vision device; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Night Owl Optics NOB3X-DG 3x42 | Nightfox Swift Max |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.3/5 | 2.4/5 |
| Image 25% | 50 sensor and screen resolution not published (neutral score used) | 0 640 x 480 sensor, 320 x 240 screen |
| Optics 15% | 57 3x optical, 42 mm objective | 60 1x optical, 40° view |
| Runtime 15% | 50 runtime not published (neutral score used) | 12 3 h stated runtime |
| Value 15% | 100 $59.99 | 66 $129.99 |
| Waterproofing 10% | 50 water resistance not published (neutral score used) | 50 water resistance not published (neutral score used) |
| Warranty 10% | 0 1-year warranty | 12 1.5-year warranty |
| Recording 5% | 50 records, resolution not published (neutral score used) | 0 does not record |
| Claimed range 5% | 17 394 ft claimed | 0 262 ft claimed |
Specifications
| Night Owl Optics NOB3X-DG 3x42 | Nightfox Swift Max | |
|---|---|---|
| Image | ||
| Type | Binocular | Goggles |
| Sensor | CMOS | CMOS |
| Sensor resolution | - | 640 x 480 |
| Screen | - | TFT |
| Screen resolution | - | 320 x 240 |
| Optics | ||
| Optical magnification | 3x | 1x |
| Digital zoom | 2x | 2x |
| Objective lens | 42 mm | - |
| Field of view | - | 40 ° |
| IR illuminator | Yes | 850 nm |
| Claimed range in darkness | 394 ft | 262 ft |
| Recording and power | ||
| Video recording | Yes | No |
| Phone app / Wi-Fi | No | No |
| Battery | 2 x CR123A (not included) | Built-in Li-ion, 3,000 mAh |
| Battery capacity | - | 3,000 mAh |
| Runtime at night | - | 3 h |
| Build | ||
| Head mount included | No | Yes |
| Weight | 15.3 oz | 12.7 oz |
| Warranty | 1 year | 1.5 years |