850nm vs 940nm IR Illuminators: Which One Do You Really Need?

When choosing an IR illuminator for night hunting or pest control, one of the most common questions is: Should I use 850nm or 940nm? Both have their advantages, but the right choice depends on what you’re hunting and how much stealth you need.

Let’s break it down in simple, practical terms.

850nm – The Standard IR Illuminator

The 850nm wavelength is the most common IR option, and for good reason:

  • Highest range of the two wavelengths

  • Produces a faint red glow from the emitter

  • Generally clearer and less grainy image compared to 940nm

Some animals may see the red glow—especially alert species—but overall, 850nm gives you the best combination of clarity and distance.

If you need maximum range or you’re hunting animals that aren’t overly light-sensitive, 850nm is the way to go.

940nm – The Stealth/Covert Option

The 940nm wavelength is often called stealth or covert IR because:

  • It almost does not produce a visible red glow

  • Invisible to most animals, especially nocturnal ones

  • Perfect for sensitive species like rats, stoats, and “touchy” rabbits

However, it comes with trade-offs:

  • Reduced range compared to 850nm

  • Grainier image

  • Not ideal for longer distances - but still goes a very long way

If stealth is your priority over raw performance, 940nm offers a real advantage.

Are IR Illuminators Truly Invisible to Animals?

Yes… and no.

Here’s the simplest way to think about it:

  • White light: If I punch you in the face, you see my fist coming and feel the impact.

  • IR light: You don’t see the fist, but you still feel the impact.

Animals may not see the IR light, but the energy is still there, and many animals can sense something unusual. Combined with their sensitive hearing and natural alertness, they can still pick up:

  • Movement

  • Bolt actions

  • Clothing rustle

  • Brush disturbance

So even with 940nm, a cautious animal might still look your way.

Final Thoughts

850nm = Range and clarity
940nm = Stealth and reduced visibility

Your choice comes down to what you hunt and how you hunt. For nocturnal, wary animals, 940nm offers a real advantage. For maximum distance and image quality, 850nm still rules.

If you want the best of both worlds, pair your device with an external IR torch—and you’ll be ready for anything the night throws at you.

And of course - remember only use as much light as you need - full power on an animal at 50m from a PARD that will go some 800m is a lot ... use a lower power setting

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