Nocpix Mate H50R in a long-term test: The premium thermal clip-on for demanding hunters

We have been using the Nocpix Mate H50R intensively and continuously since September last year while stalking and stand hunting, in a wide variety of conditions and in temperatures as low as minus 16.5 degrees Celsius. Here are our experiences from several months of hunting practice.

Nocpix Mate H50R: High-quality first impression

The MATE H50R makes an extremely high-quality impression from the very first contact. The rugged magnesium housing looks sturdy and at the same time pleasantly light. We were particularly impressed by the non-slip surface, which offers a secure grip even when wearing gloves. The operation is also impressive: the keys can be easily felt and intuitively operated at night – an important point when you need to move quickly when hunting.

Picture quality of the Nocpix Mate H50R: Absolute top level

Sow in sight - Nocpix MATE H50R
The image quality of the Nocpix MATE H50R is very good (the photo has been upscaled for online display). In live operation, you have a detailed and sharp image that guarantees a reliable response at distances of up to 100 meters – always depending on the skills of the user (hunter), of course.
Nocpix Mate H50R in long-term test
The centerpiece of the device is the 640x512 pixel sensor with a 12 µm pixel pitch and a NETD value of less than 15 mK. In practice, this means extreme sharpness of detail, strong contrasts and an impressively smooth image.

The centerpiece of the device is the 640x512 pixel sensor with a 12 µm pixel pitch and a NETD value of less than 15 mK. In practice, this means enormous sharpness of detail, strong contrasts and an impressively smooth image. The Nocpix MATE H50R really came into its own in difficult weather conditions such as fog, frost or high humidity. Wild animals could be reliably identified and clearly recognized even at greater distances. The 50-mm objective lens diameter makes the device particularly interesting for open field hunting and long distances. During several hunts, we were able to test the attachment with different hunting optics and setups. Particularly in direct comparison with other premium devices, the MATE H50R impressed us with its smooth, high-contrast image and stable software performance. The device worked reliably even at extremely low temperatures down to -16.5 °C. Especially in the cold, it often becomes clear how rugged electronics really are – the Nocpix made a very strong impression here.

Operating the Nocpix MATE H50R: An advantage for right-handers, a solution for left-handers

Application Nocpix MATE H50R for right and left-handers
Right-handers like the author love operating the camera on the left-hand side, as it is very easy to access the menu keys and the focus adjustment wheel. Left-handers have the option of using the remote control to avoid the "annoying" over-reaching.

One interesting point concerns the ergonomics: the menu navigation and focus control are located on the left-hand side of the device. This is a real advantage for right-handed users: while remaining in the aiming position, settings can be made comfortably with the left hand. Left-handers, on the other hand, have to change their grip. However, Nocpix provides a practical solution for this: the remote control supplied. This allows all important functions to be conveniently controlled without changing the firing position. The remote control therefore proves to be much more useful than one might initially expect, especially when used for hunting.

RAV function of the Nocpix MATE H50R: Practical, but set correctly

The so-called RAV function – recoil-activated video recording – is particularly exciting. It makes it possible to analyze the shot again later and evaluate your own shot. Important: the sensitivity of the shot release must be correctly adjusted to the caliber used.

The setting is made in five stages:

  • Powerful calibers → lower sensitivity (towards level 5)
  • Weaker calibers → higher sensitivity (towards level 0)

If the function is not set correctly, the recording may not start reliably when the shot is fired. However, this is not a defect, but simply a configuration issue. Once you have found the right setting, automatic shot recording works very reliably.

Nocpix Mate MATE H50R: Our long-term test continues

The Nocpix Mate MATE H50R is still undergoing long-term testing. It remains particularly interesting:

  • How stable does the point of impact remain over months?
  • How does the battery performance develop in the long term?
  • How reliable is the software in continuous use?
  • How robust is the device when used intensively?

So far, the MATE H50R has made a very positive impression in all these respects.

Conclusion: A technically strong premium attachment

High-quality workmanship of the Nocpix Mate H50R
The Nocpix MATE H50R is characterised by its high-quality workmanship. It is powered by 18650 rechargeable batteries. With a little battery discipline, you can get through the weekend with two batteries. Provided, of course, that enough boars come into view. Ideally, only one battery is sufficient, because you don't have to leave the H50R running all the time.

Are there any points of criticism? So far, we have not been able to identify any really serious weaknesses. Only the operation for left-handers could be more convenient – although the remote control largely compensates for this problem. Technically, the Nocpix MATE H50R offers everything you would expect from a modern premium thermal clip-on: outstanding image quality, powerful sensors, stable software and numerous practical functions. The system is also extremely powerful, even in demanding applications. With the sister model MATE H38R, for example, we were able to shoot and hit steel targets up to 800 meters – supported by the integrated ballistics calculator. Of course, this is irrelevant for hunting, as such distances would not be appropriate. However, it impressively demonstrates the technical potential of the devices.

All in all, with the MATE H50R and a recommended retail price of €2,999, Nocpix delivers a fully convincing thermal imaging attachment for discerning hunters who are not prepared to compromise. Here you will find an introduction with the technical data of the Nocpix MATE H50R.


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