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Seems that we’re having a little bit of a boom in reviewing some thermal cameras as of late. Last time, it was very much a more pro-grade handheld one (reviewed here), perfect for those who need them in their day-to-day job. What if you’ve got a semi-regular use for something like that, or just want something more compact? That’s where the InfiRay P2 Pro Thermal Camera comes in.
What is it?
Well, it’s a thermal imaging camera, just one that relies on your phone for a lot of it’s hardware needs. We reviewed the iOS version (there is one for Android as well), but it’s basically an external camera that plugs into the Lightning port on your phone (or USB-C for Android). Once there, you’ll install the InfiRay app, and you’re ready to start clicking away and seeing what there is to be seen in the Infrared spectrum.
What’s it like using it?
In a word, a breeze. While stand-alone cameras can have you squinting at a smaller screen, the InfiRay P2 Pro Thermal Camera uses the screen of your phone, so you’ve got plenty of real estate to see what’s going on. Oh, and if you need to get in really close? It comes stock with a macro lens that attaches magnetically (and also functions as a lens cover for the main camera). This allows you to zoom in on, say, your mouse or picnic table slats (which is what I’m showing up above). You’ve also got the capability to change the color palette it’s using for showing the heat gradients, just like on a stand-alone device.
What are some advantages?
The first big advantage for the InfiRay P2 Pro Thermal Camera is of course it’s size. This would be very compact to have in a pouch of your bag, ready for whenever you need it. The other big advantage is the ease of use of getting those photos to where you need them. With a stand-alone camera, you’re using a memory card or a USB cable to move photos. Here? You can just save them off to a gallery, send them in text messages, or even email them. Just like any other photos on your phone. Really, that’s just ease of use that’s hard to ignore.
Are there any disadvantages?
Given that the InfiRay P2 Pro Thermal Camera is intended as an accessory for your phone, it’s not as ruggedized as a stand-alone device is. So, there’s the potential you could more easily damage this sort of a device. And if you’re banging around in a crawlspace or engine bay, that means your phone is in that environment as well, which again is a risk you take.
Would we recommend it?
As I’ve spent time with them, I’ve found thermal cameras like the InfiRay P2 Pro Thermal Camera to be handy gadgets. Do I need one every day? No, I sure don’t. But if I want to see how things are heating up on the cast iron, look for air leaks around my windows, or anything like that? It’s great. Given I’m not using the camera in an industrial or construction setting, that makes something like the super-compact InfiRay a very compelling option. On the other hand, if you are in those more-demanding environments, then a stand-alone camera that’s a bit more rugged may be the key.
How can you get one?
For that, you’ve got two choices. You can either get it direct from xInfrared.com, or of course directly from Amazon. Either place, it’s going to run you $299 (via Amazon, you’ll have to clip a coupon on the product page to get to that price). Just make sure you’re choosing the right version for your phone, and happy checking out all the stuff around your house and in the backyard. xInfrared.com
Details
- 【HUMAN INFRARED TECHNOLOGY LIMIT】With 9g metal body and 9mm thickness, P2 Pro is the world’s smallest thermal imager. One seventh of the volume, 10 times ability to enhance. P2 Pro with a 256×192 InfiRay high infrared resolution and 40mk high sensitivity, it provides you with clear thermal vision.
- 【-4℉ to 1112℉ Extensive Temperature Range】-20℃ to 600℃ wide temperature reading range and a PCB accuracy within ±2°C. Whether you are an engineer, contractor or home owner, P2 Pro allows you to easily detect thermal-related hazards and avoid potential dangers. With InfiRay AI-Temp MATRIX IV tech, P2 Pro will be an essential tool in your toolbox or shirt pocket. 25 frame rate ensures smooth temperature readings and less flickering.
- 【Free Professional Data Analysis】P2 Pro allows you to select point, line, and area to analyze images in your phone album. There is no need to take a photo of the temperature measurement object. Additionally, P2 Pro supports video recording, image rotation and image fusion function. You could also share high-quality IR images on social media easily.
- 【Practical DIY Bar】 With 11 available color palettes, 1945 patented infrared technologies and InfiRay AI-Temp technology, P2 Pro thermal imager enables you to DIY your own temperature measurement range and visualize the flaws. You can also set at least 50+ environmental parameters to achieve the performance you need most.
- 【Low Consumption and Useful】The P2 Pro consumes just 0.25w, supporting your Samsung phone at full power for 5-7 hours. Its 19.7 in (50cm) cable allows for more flexibility in temperature reading, making it ideal for professional inspection and maintenance in various scenarios, such as home facilities, HVAC, missing insulation, floor heating, plumbing, facilities, electrical equipment, PCB, mechanical devices, and pet searching.
