People usually prioritize the detection resolution, battery life, and reliability when choosing a thermal imaging sight. However, frame rate and latency are also important for the shooting and viewing experience. A higher frame rate means faster image refresh, significantly enhancing image smoothness and reducing the perception of latency, so it's crucial for maintaining real-time tracking in fast-moving scenarios.
Critical factors that determine the viewing experience
The ultimate viewing experience depends on two factors: low latency and high smoothness.
- Latency: The time gap between thermal signal capture and image display. In other words, when the target moves in the real world, there is a delay before it appears on screen.
- Low Latency: The displayed image is nearly synchronous with reality. For example, when the target moves, the delay between “seeing” and “displaying” is almost zero.
- Smoothness: High smoothness of the image ensures continuous viewing of every moment in an action without stutter. Such smooth visuals allow shooters to track targets more clearly without losing them due to frame drops.
- Frame Rate: Frame rate means the number of frames refreshed per second, for example, 60Hz means 60 frames per second. A high frame rate allows shooters to track the target movement more clearly during rapid motion.
User Experience at Different Frame Rates
| Frame Rate | Typical Scenario | Latency Impact | Smoothness | User Experience |
| 30Hz | Static observation, entry-level thermal imaging | Higher latency, prone to ghosting | Generally smooth, but ghosting/stutter in fast motion | Low power; eye fatigue over time |
| 50Hz | Moderate dynamics | Medium latency, improved response | Smoother transitions, fewer frame drops | Moderate power; balanced, better tracking accuracy |
| 60Hz+ | High-dynamic environments, fast tracking | Lowest latency, near real-time | Extremely smooth, almost no ghosting or stutter | Slightly higher power; immersive, reduced eye strain |
Impact of Latency in Common Scenarios
- Tactical Training: In CQB scenarios, shooters usually switch targets from long to short distances rapidly. High latency can cause stutter when moving the weapon, leading to off-target shots. However, low latency ensures the reticle follows movements instantly, improving training outcomes.
- Tracking Moving Targets: For example, when a wild boar is running, a 60Hz frame rate keeps its motion path clear and accurate. With a higher delay, the animal may already be leaving the field of view while still appearing on screen, creating aiming errors.
- Mobile Observation: When scanning terrain on foot or in a vehicle, high frame rates prevent frame skipping, enabling continuous observation and faster detection of hidden animals or potential threats.
- Complex Environment Transitions: Moving from open fields to dense forest creates drastic heat distribution changes. A 60Hz frame rate adapts quickly, maintaining seamless viewing and ensuring no details or potential targets are missed.
The Advantage of FAST Mini
The FAST Mini FMP13 is equipped with a 256×192 12μm thermal sensor and a touchscreen display, supporting a 60Hz refresh rate. Importantly, this high refresh rate does not compromise battery life—the FMP13 delivers at least 5 hours of runtime. This combination delivers professional-grade smoothness in a portable design.
- Seamless Target Tracking – No stutter when observing fast-moving game or during shooting drills.
- Low Latency Response – Reticle and display remain synchronized, minimizing the gap between shooter movement and what’s shown on screen.
- Comfortable Viewing – Designed for prolonged use with reduced eye fatigue.
Thermal Pistol Sights Fast Mini FMP13
Conclusion
Resolution defines what you can see, while frame rate determines whether you can keep up in real time. A sharp image that lags or stutters can still cost you the shot. Equipped with a 256×192 12μm thermal sensor, a 60Hz refresh rate, and 5 hours of battery life, the FAST Mini FMP13 ensures smooth, real-time performance across scenarios—helping shooters react faster and shoot with precision.
FAQs
Q1. Why does 60 Hz matter on the FMP13?
A: FMP13 offers 60 Hz refresh, improving motion continuity and lowering perceived delay in thermal imaging for real-time-like tracking of fast targets.
Q2. Does 60 Hz reduce battery life?
A: No，but the 5-hour runtime may vary based on environmental conditions，and the actual working time depends on the use intensity of the product.
Q3. How does the touchscreen help in dynamic scenes?
A: Touchscreen swipes quickly change palettes, reticles, and brightness, keeping eyes up while thermal imaging adjustments match changing backgrounds and movement.
Q4. What besides frame rate affects perceived latency?
A: Integration time, image processing, display refresh, and NUC/AGC routines influence delay; tune settings to keep thermal imaging responsive and smooth.
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