When ghost hunting, many investigators look for sudden drops in temperature — known as cold spots — which some believe are signs of paranormal activity. To find these temperature changes, ghost hunters use two main types of tools: infrared (IR) thermometers and thermal cameras.
Both are useful, but they work in very different ways.
IR Thermometers vs. Thermal Cameras: What’s the Difference?
- IR thermometers measure the temperature of a single spot. You point the device at a surface and get a number on the screen. They’re simple and cheap.
- Thermal cameras show an entire image of heat across a room or object. Warmer areas appear red or yellow; colder areas show up blue or purple. They’re more expensive, but much more powerful.
Below are 3 great budget tools for beginners, followed by 2 high-end thermal cameras that professional ghost hunters use.
Budget Picks for Beginner Ghost Hunters
1. Etekcity Lasergrip 774 Infrared Thermometer (~$25)
This is a classic starter IR thermometer. It’s easy to use — just point, pull the trigger, and get a temperature reading. It even has a built-in laser so you know exactly where you’re aiming.
Pros:
- Affordable and beginner-friendly
- Fast and accurate readings
- Great for checking specific cold spots
Cons:
- Only reads one spot at a time
- No visual image of temperature zones
2. ThermoPro TP450W Dual-Laser Infrared Thermometer (~$33)
A step up from the most basic models, this one uses two lasers to help you target the area more precisely. It also includes adjustable settings, which makes it more flexible for different surfaces.
Pros:
- Dual-laser targeting
- Adjustable emissivity for better accuracy
- Still very affordable
Cons:
- Still only spot readings
- Doesn’t show surrounding heat areas
3. Ames 12:1 Infrared Laser Thermometer (~$23)
This model from Harbor Freight is one of the cheapest options out there. It’s basic but works well for beginners who just want to practice finding cold or hot spots during investigations.
Pros:
- Very low cost
- Simple and reliable
- Laser pointer included
Cons:
- Basic features only
- No heat mapping or image display
High-End Tools for Serious Investigators
4. PerfectPrime IR0002 Thermal Imaging Camera (~$350)
This is one of the best affordable thermal cameras for ghost hunters who are ready to upgrade. It shows a full thermal image, which makes it easier to spot cold areas or heat anomalies across an entire room.
Pros:
- Full-color thermal images
- Built-in screen for live viewing
- Stores pictures for review later
Cons:
- More expensive than IR thermometers
- Bulkier than phone-based devices
5. FLIR TG165-X Thermal Imaging Camera (~$500+)
FLIR is one of the most trusted names in thermal imaging. The TG165-X is a professional-grade device used in many paranormal investigations. It gives detailed heat maps, stores images, and works well in dark or outdoor environments.
Pros:
- Extremely accurate and reliable
- Professional-level performance
- Built to handle real investigations
Cons:
- High price
- Not necessary for casual or beginner use
Feature Comparison Chart
| Feature / Capability | IR Thermometers (1–3) | PerfectPrime IR0002 | FLIR TG165-X |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full heat-map / thermal image | No | Yes | Yes |
| Single-spot temperature reading | Yes | Yes (plus image) | Yes (plus image) |
| Resolution / detail | Not applicable | Medium | High |
| Ease of use | Very easy | Moderate | Moderate to advanced |
| Battery / power needs | AAA batteries | Rechargeable battery | Rechargeable battery |
| Price range (approx.) | $20–$40 | ~$350 | ~$500+ |
What Do These Features Actually Mean?
Here’s a quick breakdown of the most important features so you know what’s useful and what’s just “nice to have” in ghost hunting gear:
Full Heat Map / Thermal Image:
This means the device shows a visual picture of the temperature across an entire area — not just one point. It helps you spot cold spots on walls, floors, or furniture quickly.
Single-Spot Temperature Reading:
Found in IR thermometers, this gives you the exact temperature of one small area. You aim, press a button, and get a number. Great for checking chills you feel in specific spots.
Image Resolution / Detail:
Higher-end thermal cameras show more detail and clarity, which makes it easier to see small temperature differences. Low-resolution devices may show only basic hot and cold zones.
Ease of Use:
IR thermometers are very simple to use, while thermal cameras can take more time to understand. If you’re just starting out, simpler is often better — but thermal images are more powerful.
Battery / Power Needs:
Most IR thermometers run on AAA batteries and last a long time. Thermal cameras usually have rechargeable batteries and can drain faster, especially during long investigations.
Price Range:
Budget tools ($20–$40) are great for getting started. Thermal cameras start around $250 and can go up to $1,000+. The more you’re willing to invest, the more features and image clarity you’ll get.
Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Use?
- If you’re just starting out, go with an IR thermometer like the Etekcity or ThermoPro. They’re cheap, easy to use, and help you learn how to check for cold spots.
- If you’re ready to take your investigations to the next level, a thermal camera like the PerfectPrime IR0002 or FLIR TG165-X lets you see the full picture — literally.
Both tools are useful, but they serve different purposes. As your skills grow, having both in your ghost hunting kit gives you the best chance of catching something truly unexplainable.