LIEMKE Merlin-35 vs KEILER-50 Pro Thermal Comparison
By clast.com.au | Published: 2026-10-21
Category: Comparisons
Compare the LIEMKE Merlin-35 and KEILER-50 Pro thermal imaging cameras for hunting. Understand the trade-offs in field of view, detector resolution, and price to choose the right optic for your needs.
Quick answer
For long-range field hunting where every meter of detection matters, the LIEMKE KEILER-50 Pro is the stronger choice. If you need a versatile all-rounder for both field and forest work, the LIEMKE Merlin-35 offers a wider field of view at a lower price.
Field of view vs detection distance
The Merlin-35 sees 19 meters at 100 meters, giving you a broader view of the terrain. The KEILER-50 Pro narrows that to 15 meters at 100 meters, but its 50mm objective lens pulls in more detail at longer ranges. For scanning open fields, the Merlin-35 covers more ground; for identifying a target at distance, the KEILER-50 Pro has the edge.
Detector resolution and display quality
The KEILER-50 Pro uses a 1024x768 OLED display, which delivers a crisp, high-contrast image. The Merlin-35 is equipped with a 384x288 VOx ceramic thermal detector—adequate for most hunting scenarios but not as refined as the KEILER-50 Pro's display. If you prioritize image detail and multiple colour modes for different lighting, the KEILER-50 Pro is the better fit.
Trade-offs at a glance
- Detection range: KEILER-50 Pro: narrower 15m FOV at 100m but longer reach. Merlin-35: wider 19m FOV at 100m but less reach.
- Image quality: KEILER-50 Pro: 1024x768 OLED with 4 colour modes. Merlin-35: 384x288 VOx detector—adequate but less refined.
- Price: KEILER-50 Pro: USD 4140. Merlin-35: USD 3811.50. The Merlin-35 saves over USD 300. The Merlin-35 offers a lower entry point for a capable thermal scope.
Product facts
- LIEMKE KEILER-50 PRO Thermal imaging camera (2020): 50mm objective lens, field of view of 15m at 100m, 1024x768 OLED display, 4 colour modes, high contrast. This combination gives you superior long-range detection and a sharp, customizable image for field hunting at distance.
LIEMKE KEILER-50 PRO Thermal imaging camera (2020) - LIEMKE Merlin-35 Thermal imaging camera (2020): 50mm objective lens, field of view of 19m at 100m, 384x288 VOx ceramic thermal detector. The wider field of view helps you scan more area quickly, making it a practical all-rounder for mixed terrain hunting.
LIEMKE Merlin-35 Thermal imaging camera (2020)
Which one should you choose?
Best for
- Hunters who need maximum detection distance and a high-resolution display for long-range field work (KEILER-50 Pro)
- Versatile users who want a wider field of view and a lower price for mixed field and forest hunting (Merlin-35)
Not for
- Budget-conscious buyers who need the absolute lowest price (consider the Merlin-35 instead of the KEILER-50 Pro)
- Hunters who primarily work in dense forest and value maximum close-range scanning (a wider-FOV model may be better)
