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Flir's new thermal camera heats things up at CES

Flir's new thermal camera, the Scout TK, boasts the same small size as past models, but doesn't need a mobile device to operate.

Megan Wollerton Former Senior Writer/Editor
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Tyler Lizenby/CNET

Camera manufacturer Flir is well known for its thermal models that attach directly to a variety of Android and iOS devices. We reviewed the $250 Flir One (for iOS) back in 2015 and found that its MSX tech enhances the image quality over competing models, such as the $250 Seek Thermal Camera.

But, what about folks interested in smaller, more reasonably-priced thermal cameras (traditional models can cost thousands) who don't have compatible smart phones or tablets?

Enter: Flir's new Scout TK. According to Flir, the Scout TK is a "pocket-sized" camera that doesn't need a secondary device to operate. Instead, it captures video and pictures "internally." It also boasts a few upgrades over the Flir One:

  • It's supposed to have a longer range so it can pick up on thermal readings from up to 100 yards away.
  • It weighs 6 ounces and is supposedly weather-proofed and durable enough to handle the elements as well as falls.
  • It is designed to last for up to five hours of continual use.
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Flir

Flir's new Scout TK will retail for $599 and is expected to be available on Flir.com and Amazon.com "later this year."

In the meantime, check out the rest of our CES 2016 coverage.