Does it work in complete darkness?

Yes. It has a built-in infrared illuminator, so it can see with no ambient light. The IR range is short, so subjects need to be fairly close.

How does it compare with a real night vision tube?

A Gen 2 or Gen 3 tube gives a sharper, brighter image and much longer range. The NVG40 is a digital sensor with a screen, so its image is grainier, but it is far simpler and cheaper to own.

Can I record what I see?

Check the specific unit's spec sheet for recording and storage. Many digital monoculars in this class have a video-out or card slot, but not all do.

What batteries does it use?

Confirm the battery type on the unit's label before buying. The IR illuminator drains power quickly, so carry spares for longer sessions.

Is it good for hunting?

It is better for close-range spotting and scouting than for hunting at distance. The short IR range and grainy image make it hard to identify animals far away.

Where is the NVG40 Digital Night Vision Monocular cheapest?

At Good Nite Gear, for $165.00, as of our latest check.

What do buyers say about the NVG40 Digital Night Vision Monocular?

Rated 4.4 out of 5 from 10 ratings.

NVG40 Digital Night Vision Monocular

Best price now

$165.00at Good Nite GearChecked Nov 9

Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when.

Visit Good Nite Gear

NVG40 Digital Night Vision Monocular

Best price now

$165.00at Good Nite GearChecked Nov 9

Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when.

Visit Good Nite Gear

Ask our agent about this product

It checks today's price at every store, compares the alternatives and answers in about a minute.

Price facts

Last seen at $165.00 at Good Nite Gear on Nov 9.

Our take on the NVG40 Digital Night Vision Monocular

The NVG40 is a digital night vision monocular that uses an infrared illuminator to see in low light and full darkness. It is a budget-tier device, so expect a small digital sensor and screen rather than the sharp, bright image of a Gen 2 or Gen 3 tube. It suits casual users: backyard wildlife watching, camping, and night walks. Against pricier digital monoculars it gives up image clarity and range, but it is a low-cost way to try night vision.

Best forFirst-time night vision buyersBackyard wildlife watchingCamping and night hikesCasual low-light observation

Pros

Infrared illuminator lets it work in total darkness
Digital design is simpler and tougher than tube optics
Monocular body is easy to hold and carry one-handed
Records or views on a built-in screen, no eyepiece strain

Cons

Digital sensor image is grainy compared with true night vision tubes
IR range is short, so distant subjects are hard to identify
Performance drops in fog, rain or heavy cover
Battery drain is high with the IR illuminator on

NVG40 Digital Night Vision Monocular prices at every store

Good Nite GearNew
In stockReturn policy
$165.00Checked Nov 9
Visit Good Nite Gear

What reviewers say

4.4 / 510 ratings

Only a small number of ratings are in, and they average a solid score. Buyers treat it as a low-cost entry into night vision rather than a serious optic.

What people mention

Image qualityMixedBuyers say the picture is usable up close but gets grainy at distance.
IR rangeCriticisedThe illuminator reaches only so far, so far-off subjects are hard to make out.
Ease of usePraisedOwners find it simple to set up and operate.
ValuePraisedBuyers see it as a cheap way to try night vision.

About the NVG40 Digital Night Vision Monocular

The NVG40 is a digital night vision monocular. It is an infrared night vision device for low light use.

Type: Digital night vision monocular
Night vision: Infrared

Questions and answers

Does it work in complete darkness?: Yes. It has a built-in infrared illuminator, so it can see with no ambient light. The IR range is short, so subjects need to be fairly close.
How does it compare with a real night vision tube?: A Gen 2 or Gen 3 tube gives a sharper, brighter image and much longer range. The NVG40 is a digital sensor with a screen, so its image is grainier, but it is far simpler and cheaper to own.
Can I record what I see?: Check the specific unit's spec sheet for recording and storage. Many digital monoculars in this class have a video-out or card slot, but not all do.
What batteries does it use?: Confirm the battery type on the unit's label before buying. The IR illuminator drains power quickly, so carry spares for longer sessions.
Is it good for hunting?: It is better for close-range spotting and scouting than for hunting at distance. The short IR range and grainy image make it hard to identify animals far away.
Where is the NVG40 Digital Night Vision Monocular cheapest?: At Good Nite Gear, for $165.00, as of our latest check.
What do buyers say about the NVG40 Digital Night Vision Monocular?: Rated 4.4 out of 5 from 10 ratings.