A head-mounted 1x monocular for walking, camp chores and checking the property in the dark with both hands free. The Prowl 2 adds a Full HD sensor and IP65 sealing for $50 more.
Amazon $199.99The Nightfox Prowl is the better digital night vision device overall, rated 3.2 to 2.8. The Nightfox Prowl leads on optics, runtime and waterproofing. The Night Owl Optics Night Scope 3x wins on value. The Night Owl Optics Night Scope 3x costs $140 less ($59.99 vs $199.99).
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.
A basic $60 monocular for a first look at backyard wildlife at night. Expect a low-resolution picture and short battery life.
Amazon $59.99Which should you buy?
- Choose the Nightfox Prowl for optics (1x optical, 53.8° view vs 3x optical, 7.2° view), runtime (5 h stated runtime vs 2.5 h stated runtime) and waterproofing (IP54 vs not water resistant).
- Choose the Night Owl Optics Night Scope 3x for value ($59.99 vs $199.99).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every monoculars digital night vision device; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Nightfox Prowl | Night Owl Optics Night Scope 3x |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.2/5 | 2.8/5 |
| Image 25% | 50 sensor and screen resolution not published (neutral score used) | 50 sensor and screen resolution not published (neutral score used) |
| Optics 15% | 88 1x optical, 53.8° view | 40 3x optical, 7.2° view |
| Runtime 15% | 38 5 h stated runtime | 6 2.5 h stated runtime |
| Value 15% | 48 $199.99 | 100 $59.99 |
| Waterproofing 10% | 25 IP54 | 0 not water resistant |
| Warranty 10% | 25 2-year warranty | 0 1-year warranty |
| Recording 5% | 61 records 1080p | 16 records 480p |
| Claimed range 5% | 22 430 ft claimed | 50 range not claimed (neutral score used) |
Specifications
| Nightfox Prowl | Night Owl Optics Night Scope 3x | |
|---|---|---|
| Image | ||
| Type | Monocular | Monocular |
| Sensor | CMOS | CMOS |
| Optics | ||
| Optical magnification | 1x | 3x |
| Digital zoom | 3x | - |
| Field of view | 53.8 ° | 7.2 ° |
| IR illuminator | 850 nm / 940 nm | Yes |
| Claimed range in darkness | 430 ft | - |
| Recording and power | ||
| Video recording | 1080p | 480p |
| Phone app / Wi-Fi | No | No |
| Battery | Removable 18650 Li-ion, 3,200 mAh | 2 x CR123A |
| Battery capacity | 3,200 mAh | - |
| Runtime at night | 5 h | 2.5 h |
| Build | ||
| Head mount included | Yes | No |
| Water protection | IP54 | No |
| Weight | 9 oz | 10.6 oz |
| Warranty | 2 years | 1 year |
