Night-vision binoculars are one of the most popular products in the market. People from all age groups buy them. They help you to see things at a distance even in the dark. Most night-vision binoculars are used by security personnel. There are different ""generations"" of night-vision binoculars. The first-generation night-vision binoculars are very affordable and they amplify ambient light by a factor of 1,000. They are generally used by civilians.

Law enforcement agencies prefer to use second-generation binoculars. Their price is quite high, but they provide the user with very bright, sharp images. The clarity is very good. The third- and fourth-generation night-vision binoculars show much clearer images at night, and are priced higher that the previous generation binoculars.

When night-vision binoculars first came on the market they were very expensive status symbols. They used to be every expensive. But mass production and better technologies have brought down the price substantially, so that the common person can afford them.

Apart from a large number of big companies, there are local manufacturers which produce night-vision binoculars at a much lower cost. But still, a good pair of night-vision binoculars will cost at least a thousand dollars. You can find some secondhand models at affordable prices. But you'd better make sure that they have the proper range, power and clarity. The first generation binoculars might not prove effective if there is no light; however, the latest technology has ensured that even with no light, the infrared illuminator helps you see things in the distance with great clarity.