Explore the Night: Choosing the Right Nocpix LUMI Thermal Scanner

Whether you're just beginning to explore the darkness or you’re a seasoned predator hunter, a handheld thermal scanner gives you an enormous advantage in the field. With more models available than ever before, today’s thermal optics often deliver better performance at lower prices than previous generations—sometimes offering both at once.

The Nocpix LUMI series is a great example of how far thermal tech has come. These compact units are designed to be lightweight, affordable, and user-friendly, while still packing pro-level features like internal photo and video recording with audio, common rechargeable 18650 batteries, and exceptional image clarity. Gone are the days of bulky rigs and external recorders.

Built for the Field

Every LUMI scanner is engineered for practicality and comfort in real hunting scenarios:

• Ambidextrous controls and a top-mounted magnetic lens cap (stows on either side)
• Rotating eye cup that flips out of the way
• Neck lanyard and MOLLE-compatible carry case
• Rugged, IP67-rated construction
• Standard 18650 interchangeable rechargeable batteries

Whether you're glassing fields for hogs or scanning tree lines for coyotes, these features matter. But the right model depends on how you hunt. Here’s a breakdown of which LUMI model may be best for your style:

LUMI H35 – Best for Wide Scanning and Image Clarity

If top-tier image quality is your priority, the H35 is your answer. It features a high-resolution 640×512 sensor paired with a ≤18mK NETD rating for extreme sensitivity and crisp thermal contrast. With its 2.5× native magnification and wider field of view, it's ideal for fast scanning and general-purpose spotting.  All of our "H" models are 640 resolution; check out our article on sensor sizes if you want to learn more. 

However, keep in mind that zooming digitally cuts resolution. If you tap the zoom on the H35 (digitally zooming from 2.5× to 5×) you are now have effectively a 320×256 resolution optic with 5× magnification. This is a slightly lower resolution than you can get out of the LUMI L35 or L35R, which have 384×288 sensors with a 4× native magnification. In short: go H35 for clarity and field of view, but go L35 if you are usually scanning for targets further out. It may be a little counter intuitive, but in this case, the lower resolution model is actually just as good or even a hair better for scanning long distances, purely because of that higher base magnification. 

LUMI L35 / L35R – Best for Long-Range Target ID

The L35 is a sweet spot for many hunters. It has a sharp 384×288 sensor and 35mm lens, offering a native 4× magnification that’s ideal for picking apart distant targets in the dark. It delivers fantastic performance for less money than the H35—and it may actually outperform it at longer ranges if you tend to zoom in often.

Want a rangefinder built in? Go with the L35R, which adds a compact 875-yard Laser Rangefinder. No, it’s not as powerful as the one found in larger VISTA or ACE models—but it's compact, reliable, and more than enough for real-world night hunting scenarios.

LUMI L19 – Best Value for Mid-Range Use

Don’t need the long reach or highest resolution? The L19 gives you a more affordable way to scout with thermal. It uses the same 384×288 sensor as the L35 but with a shorter 19mm lens and a 2× native magnification. The field of view is wider, and it’s excellent for scanning brush, walking fence lines, or checking feeders. It’s also a great lightweight option for tracking.

LUMI P13 – Best for Entry-Level Users

The P13 is your gateway into thermal—priced at just $550. While it uses a lower-resolution 256×192 sensor, it still offers real thermal detection with 2× magnification, long battery life, and the same ergonomic, rugged form factor as the rest of the LUMI line. If your goal is simply to find out what’s moving in the night and you’re on a budget, this unit will impress you.

LUMI Model Comparison

Model	Sensor	Native Magnification	Lens Size	NETD (Sensitivity)	LRF	Price
H35	640×512	2×	35mm	≤18 mK	No	$2,450
L35	384×288	4×	35mm	≤18 mK	No	$1,900
L35R	384×288	4×	35mm	≤18 mK	Yes	$2,200
L19	384×288	2×	19mm	≤18 mK	No	$1,100
P13	256×192	2×	13mm	≤20 mK	No	$550

One Step Closer to Total Darkness

No matter which model you choose, every LUMI thermal monocular brings serious capabilities to the table. All models offer internal recording, rugged waterproof housings, and the freedom of hot-swappable 18650 batteries.

Whether you're looking to scout smarter, hunt more effectively, or simply find out what’s lurking in the darkness, the LUMI series has a solution that fits your hunt—and your budget.