HIKMicro Thunder 2.0 25mm (256x192) Thermal Module and Riflescope Picatinny Rail

HIKMICRO Thunder 2.0 25mm (256x192) Thermal Module and Riflescope Picatinny Rail. The all new Thunder 2.0 from HIKMICRO builds on the success of the original Thunder with an updated, ergonomic design and price point that makes thermal riflescopes affordable to a much wider group of shooters. 

The Thunder 2.0 chassis has been completely redesigned from the ground up and incorporates many new features including the removable HIKMICRO Li-ion battery pack which delivers more than 10 hours of runtime and can be conveniently recharged away from the gun.

Fitted with HIKMICRO’s 256px, SUB 35mK NETD sensor the Thunder 2.0 is able to detect small temperature differences, allowing it to build a detailed image of your surroundings showing you any nearby heat sources and their surroundings.  Optimised for air rifle and rimfire shooters the Thunder 2.0 provides and affordable entry level into hunting with thermal without having to compromise on the quality.

The Thunder 2.0 is loaded with HIKMICRO’s powerful software to boost your hunting experience - including one shot zero, picture in picture, recoil activated recording and access to the HIKMICRO Sight app which allow you to stream and control your scope from your phone. 

Features

• 256 × 192 resolution with 12 μm sensor
• 1024 × 768 resolution 0.39-inch OLED display
• Supports image brightness and tone adjustment
• Up to 10 hours of continuous operation
• Replaceable and rechargeable Li-ion battery
• Supports audio and recoil-activated recording
• High shock resistance up to 1000 g/0.4 ms

Specifications

Thermal Module

• Image Sensor: Uncooled Focal Plane Arrays
• Max. Resolution: 256 × 192
• Frame Rate: 50 Hz
• Pixel Interval: 12 μm
• NETD: less than 35 mK (25°C, F# = 1.0)
• Lens (Focal Length): 25mm
• Focus Knob: No
• Detection Range: 1200 m
• Min. Focusing Distance: 0.5 m
• Aperture: F1.0
• Magnification: 3.25 ×
• Field of View(H × V), Degrees/m @100 m: 7.03° × 5.28°/12.29 m × 9.22 m

Image display

• Display: 1024 × 768, 0.39 inch, OLED
• Palettes: Black Hot, White Hot, Red Hot, Fusion
• FFC (Flat Field: Auto, Manual, External Correction Correction) Mode
• Exit Pupil: 6 mm
• Eye Relief: 45 mm
• Diopter (Range): -5 D to 5 D
• Brightness Adjustment: Yes
• Tone Adjustment: Cold, Warm 

System

• Record Video: On-board video recording
• Capture Snapshot: Yes
• Digital Zoom: 1x, 2x, 4x, 8x
• Standby Mode: Yes
• Storage: Built-in EMMC (16 GB)
• PIP: Yes
• DPC: Yes
• Hotspot: Yes
• Hot Track: Yes
• Distance Measurement: Yes
• Recoil-activation Recording: Yes
• Audio Recording: Yes
• Max. Recoil: 1000 g/0.4 ms

Power Supply

• Battery Type: Replaceable and Rechargeable Li-ion Battery
• Battery Operating Time: ≥ 10 h (25°C, with hotspot off)
• Type-C Power Supply: 5 VDC, 2 A, Supports external power supply

General

• Protection Level: IP67
• Dimension: 218.7 mm × 67.14 mm × 68.04 mm
• Weight: 494g without battery
• Working Temperature: -30°C to +55°C (-22°F to 131°F)

HIKMICRO Thunder 2.0 25mm (256x192) Thermal Module and Riflescope Picatinny Rail Review

The HIKMICRO Thunder 2.0 25mm is a compact thermal module and riflescope designed to provide an accessible entry point into thermal shooting for air rifle and rimfire users. Built around a 256 × 192 thermal sensor with sub-35 mK sensitivity, it focuses on clear heat detection, reliable performance, and modern digital features without excessive complexity. Its redesigned chassis, long battery life, and robust recoil rating make it particularly appealing to shooters looking for dependable thermal capability at a more attainable price point.

Thunder 2.0 Performance & Key Features

At its core, this thermal scope prioritises clarity and detection consistency, combining a sensitive thermal sensor with a smooth 50 Hz refresh rate. The 25mm lens and fixed base magnification are well matched for short- to mid-range applications, delivering a balanced field of view for target identification and situational awareness.

• 256 × 192 thermal resolution with a 12 μm sensor for detailed heat contrast
• Sub-35 mK NETD sensitivity to reveal subtle temperature differences
• 3.25× base magnification with digital zoom up to 8×
• Effective detection range of up to 1200 metres

Thunder 2.0 Build Quality & Handling

The redesigned Thunder 2.0 chassis reflects a focus on durability and practical handling, with a shock resistance rating up to 1000 g to suit repeated recoil. Weighing 494 g without the battery, it remains manageable on lighter rifles while maintaining a solid, confidence-inspiring feel. An IP67 protection rating and wide operating temperature range support reliable use in demanding outdoor conditions.

Is the Thunder 2.0 Easy to Use?

User-friendly operation is supported by HIKMICRO’s integrated software features and clear OLED display, helping shooters make adjustments quickly in the field. The system balances advanced functionality with straightforward controls, reducing the learning curve for those new to thermal optics.

• One-shot zero and picture-in-picture for precise sighting
• Intuitive digital zoom and palette selection
• Comfortable 45 mm eye relief with adjustable diopter

Key Takeaways of the Thunder 2.0

The Thunder 2.0 stands out for its sensitive thermal sensor, robust construction, and generous battery runtime, all delivered in a compact and affordable package. While its 256 × 192 resolution places it firmly in the entry-level category, it avoids feeling compromised thanks to strong image processing and useful software tools. It is best suited to air rifle and rimfire shooters seeking dependable thermal performance without unnecessary complexity. Overall, it represents a well-judged balance of capability, durability, and value for its intended audience.

HIKMICRO Thunder 2.0 25mm (256x192) Thermal Module and Riflescope Picatinny Rail FAQs

What type of thermal sensor does the Thunder 2.0 use?

This thermal scope uses an uncooled focal plane array sensor with a resolution of 256 × 192 pixels. The 12 μm pixel pitch and sub-35 mK NETD rating allow it to detect fine temperature differences. This helps produce clearer thermal images, particularly in challenging conditions.

What is the base magnification and zoom capability?

The Thunder 2.0 features a fixed optical magnification of 3.25×. Digital zoom is available at 1×, 2×, 4×, and up to 8×, allowing users to adapt to different engagement distances. Higher zoom levels trade field of view for target detail.

How far can this thermal scope detect targets?

With its 25mm F1.0 lens and thermal sensor, the detection range is rated up to 1200 metres. This refers to heat source detection rather than detailed identification. Practical identification distances will vary depending on target size and environmental conditions.

What display technology is used for viewing?

The unit is fitted with a 0.39-inch OLED display with a resolution of 1024 × 768. OLED technology provides strong contrast and clarity, which is especially beneficial in low-light or night-time shooting. Image brightness and tone can be adjusted to suit user preference.

Which colour palettes are available?

Users can select from Black Hot, White Hot, Red Hot, and Fusion palettes. These options allow shooters to tailor image presentation based on terrain, weather, and personal preference. Palette selection can improve target visibility in different scenarios.

Does the Thunder 2.0 support video and audio recording?

Yes, it includes on-board video recording, snapshot capture, and audio recording. Recoil-activated recording ensures key moments are automatically captured during firing. Files are stored on the built-in 16 GB EMMC memory.

How long does the battery last on a single charge?

The replaceable and rechargeable Li-ion battery provides at least 10 hours of continuous operation at 25°C with hotspot features turned off. Batteries can be recharged externally, allowing extended sessions without keeping the scope mounted. External power via USB-C is also supported.

Is this thermal scope suitable for recoil?

The Thunder 2.0 is rated for recoil forces up to 1000 g over 0.4 ms. This makes it suitable for air rifles and rimfire platforms as intended. The robust internal design supports consistent performance under repeated firing.

What environmental protection does it offer?

With an IP67 protection rating, the scope is sealed against dust and protected from water immersion. It is designed to operate in temperatures from -30°C to +55°C. This ensures dependable performance across a wide range of hunting conditions.

Can the scope be connected to a smartphone?

Yes, it supports the HIKMICRO Sight app, enabling live streaming and remote control from a compatible smartphone. This feature is useful for observation, sharing footage, or adjusting settings remotely. Connectivity enhances overall versatility without complicating operation.

For more options, explore the full range of HIKMICRO thermal rifle scopes here.