6 Best Holographic Sights In 2024 - We Review 5 True Holo's & a Bonus

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Though holographic sights are often lumped in with red dot sights, like EOTech says - not a red dot.

I created this page for purists by carefully screening the best holographic sights, although I did also test an extremely popular reflex sight that is often mistaken for a holo sight.

EOTech EXPS3 mounted to AR
Image by Tina Fa'apoi (Own Work) for Target Tamers

I further compare budget, battery power, reticles, size & weight & field of view to make finding the perfect holographic sight easy.

Top 6 Holographic Sights In 2024

IMAGE PRODUCT DETAILS
tt-table__imageVortex AMG UH-1 Gen II
  • Reticle: EBR-CQB
  • Night Vision Capability: Yes
  • Price Range: Under $600
CHECK PRICE
tt-table__imageEOTech HHS EXPS3-4 w/G33 Magnifier
  • Reticle: Ring with 4 Dots
  • Night Vision Capability: Yes
  • Price Range: Under $1400
CHECK PRICE
tt-table__imageEOTech XPS3
  • Reticle: Ring with 1 Dot
  • Night Vision Capability: Yes
  • Price Range: Under $800
CHECK PRICE
tt-table__imageEOTech XPS2
  • Reticle: Ring with 1 Dot
  • Night Vision Capability: No
  • Price Range: Under $500
CHECK PRICE
tt-table__imageEOTech 512
  • Reticle: Ring with 1 Dot
  • Night Vision Capability: No
  • Price Range: Under $500
CHECK PRICE
tt-table__imageHolosun 510C
  • Reticle: 2 MOA Dot, 65 MOA Ring, 2 MOA Dot + 65 MOA Ring
  • Night Vision Capability: Yes
  • Price Range: Under $400
CHECK PRICE

Why Trust Us?

After hundreds of hours of hand-testing holographic sights in the field and at the range, and thousands more hours researching and writing about them, we feel we earn the title of experts when it comes to optics!

We purchase as many of the optics for our tests as possible, and run them through their paces to make sure they will perform at the range and in the field.

Our combined decades of experience from aiming and target acquisition, to big game hunting and competitions has been integral in putting together this round-up of the best holographic sights.

Get the inside scoop on how we test optics here.

What is a holographic sight?  A holographic image of a reticle is essentially "sandwiched" between lenses and illuminated by a laser diode.  Looking through the sight, the reticle appears to be superimposed in the distance somewhere between the sight and the target.

EOTECH reticle
Image Credit: EOTech

What are the benefits of a holosight design?

  • Fast target acquisition
  • For close and long-range use
  • In-focused picture due to simultaneous downrange focusing on target and reticle
  • Heavy duty - can use with front lens damage
  • Reticle remains the same size when used with a magnifier

But, there's no ignoring the drawbacks.

  • Price - they often start at $400 (approx.) for entry-level models
  • Bulky - due to their design, they're not equipped to be mounted to handguns
  • Limited availability for true holographic sights
  • Battery hog - laser diode requires a lot of power to operate

In the mid '90s, EOTech was specifically created to bring holographic sights in a compact, rugged, and effective design for small arms to the commercial market.  They may have been the only manufacturer of the holo sight and started the trend, but more recently, Vortex has joined the game. 

EOTech VS Vortex
EOTech - Image Credit: EOTech & Vortex - Image Credit: Vortex

With only two manufacturers producing this type of sight, it restricts availability and likely prevents economical prices to the civilian consumer market.

To be fair, the holographic sight requires a sophisticated manufacturing process, and so it costs more than red dots.  But, I'll get into the differences between red dots and holographic sights later.  For now, let's get into this years latest and best holo sights you must consider!

6 Best Holographic Sights on the Market

1. Vortex Razor AMG UH-1 Gen II - Best Vortex Holographic Sight

Vortex Razor AMG UH1 holo sight
Image Credit: Vortex

Overall, there are noteworthy differences between the AMG UH-1 Gen 1 versus AMG UH-1 Gen II holographic sights. The new version includes a larger rear window, tool-less battery cap, and night vision compatibility. Though it has performance upgrades, there is one major change that may be missed.

Pros:

  • 1 MOA dot
  • EBR-CQB reticle
  • Tool-less battery cap
  • Rear-facing controls
  • Night vision compatible

Cons:

  • Battery life

Holographic sights have always had poor battery runtime compared to reflex red dot sights. This remains true with Vortex’s gen II holosight. It takes a CR123A battery estimated to provide 1500 hours of runtime based on medium settings with normal use. I know that the auto shut-off after 14 hours is a helpful feature but can be disabled for instantly ready use.

Vortex Razor AMG UH1 in action
Image Credit: Vortex

However, conservative use of the AMG UH-1 will still only provide a maximum of 62 days (approx.) of operation. I recommend keeping spare batteries on hand since the micro-USB port has been removed. I'll miss that feature as it used to allow for recharging batteries. At least the battery compartment cover is now tool-less.

Though no specs are provided, Vortex says they increased the size of the rear sight window to expand its HUD-like appeal and apparent FOV. I love that it's IPX8 waterproof, was upgraded with XR FMC coatings, and is now night vision compatible. It has a rear-facing, dedicated NV button that puts the sight into night mode with reticle brightness that is safe for use with NVDs.

Vortex Holographic sight features
Front side (top left) QD mount (top right) Reticle (bottom left) Rear side (bottom right) - Image Credit: Vortex

All other favorite features remained the same such as the Weaver/Picatinny quick detach mount, ½ MOA turrets, FHQ glare-reducing, stealth-improving technology, and the ArmorTek coating. The EBR-CQB reticle consists of a 1 MOA dot for long-range use, segmented circle, and bottom triangle post for extreme CQB performance.

I like that the upgrades are productive, it’s covered under the VIP warranty, and it’s still good competition as an alternative in an EOTech-dominated market.

Available at: Amazon and Optics Planet (use code TTAMERS for 5% off at Optics Planet)

2. EOTech HHS I EXPS3-4 w/G33 Magnifier - Best Tactical Holographic Sight

EOTech EXPS3 4
Image Credit: Optics Planet

The HHS I (Holographic Hybrid Sight) EXPS3-4 comes with the G33 Magnifier.  It's the EXPS3 sight with the 4 dot reticle and the G33 to get long-range sight.

Pros:

  • Close-long range
  • Side buttons
  • NV compatible
  • Includes magnifier
  • Switch-to-side mount

Cons:

  • Price

Looking at the price alone, you'd wonder why you're paying more for the EXPS3 HWS.  However, you're getting a 2-in-1 bundle with this buy.  It  might cost close to a grand, but the included G33 magnifier makes up the difference, and I think it's worth it.

The EXPS3 sight is 11.2 oz and is 3.8 x 2.3 x 2.9" in size - slightly more compact than some other EOTech models.  It has a side-loading battery compartment that takes 1 x CR123 for 1,000 hours of use at nominal setting (12). 

There are a total of 30 brightness settings with 10 compatible with NV (Night Vision).  The HHS will automatically shut down after 8 hours of non-use, but it's also programmable to shut down after 4. I found that it depends which up or down button you press when activating the sight.

EOTech EXPS 4 reticle
4-dot Ring of Death reticle - Image Credit: Optics Planet

The reticle has 4x 1 MOA dots to provide holding over points for medium to long-range shots.  Calibrated for the .223, it can reach out to 600 yards which I know you you can easily do with the 3x G33 (Generation III 3x) magnifier.

The magnifier is 3.9" long, and fits to all holo sight models with a 7mm riser.  Eye relief is rather restrictive with only 2.2", but many magnifiers have comparable eye relief.  The switch-to-side mount is especially convenient to move the magnifier out of the way. It has a 1.18" (30 mm) height that clears most low-profile, flip-up, rear iron sights.

With everything put together, I would say that the EXPS3 holo sight that can give you the upper hand in any close quarter scenario to every long-range observational need.

Available at: Amazon and Optics Planet (use code TTAMERS for 5% off at Optics Planet)

3. EOTech XPS3 - Best Holographic Sight for AR-15

EOTech EXPS3 Holographic Sight Review
EXPS3 model - Image by Tina Fa'apoi (Own Work) for Target Tamers

If you're planning on seeing in the dark with your AR-15, you'll want to upgrade your sight with an XPS3 model.  The extra benefit of NV with all the same great features of the second generation models can be found right here.

Pros:

  • NV compatible
  • Lightweight
  • Compact
  • Waterproof
  • Built-in mount

Cons:

  • Rear controls

What's the difference between the XPS2 and the XPS3?  The XPS3 is NV compatible since it's built with 30 brightness settings that allows 10 of those to work with Gen 1-3 NV devices.

What's the difference between the XPS3 and the EXPS3?  The EXPS3 has side button controls and a quick detach lever mount that this model lacks, but it's slightly heavier at 11.2 oz.

YouTube video

The XPS3 is the smallest and lightest sight of all EOTech's HWS sights.  Weighing only 9 oz and is 3.8 x 2.1 x 2.5" in size, it makes for a lightweight holo system leaving plenty of rail space for additional accessories on your AR-15, and yes, you'll want to mount some extra gadgets like a magnifier.

Built with an integrated 1" weaver or Picatinny mount, it'll fit your MSR as easily as the EXPS3 fit mine.

Like all EOTech sights, it's fog-resistant and waterproof, and I did put it its quick detach mount alternative in a washing machine - no rinse cycle, just submersion.  The XPS3 takes 1x CR123 lithium battery that can provide up to 1,000 hours of continuous use. 

This model has the 68 MOA ring with 1 MOA center dot.  Transition between 7 and 50 yards for CQB shooting and then ping steel out to 200 yards with the .223 calibrated reticle.

EOTech EXPS3-0 Reticle on Target
Image by Tina Fa'apoi (Own Work) for Target Tamers

Since it's NV compatible, works with a magnifier, and can co-witness with rear iron sights, I deem the XPS3 a versatile tool for many missions or hunts to come that's perfect atop your flat top receiver or even on your shotgun. 

However, the one thing I don't like is that the rear controls are virtually inaccessible if you have a magnifier behind it. But the EOTech G33 magnifier has a side-to-switch mount so pushing it out of the way will allow access to the rubber buttons.

The XPS3 has the basics, plus some.  I think that its size, light weight, and durable body makes for the ideal kind of sight to top your AR-15.

Available at: Amazon and Optics Planet (use code TTAMERS for 5% off at Optics Planet)

4. EOTech XPS2 - Best Sight for Competition Shooting

EOTech XPS2
Image Credit: EOTech

What benefits do you need from your sight for 3-gun comps?  Speed, accuracy, durability, and the ability to transition from close to long-range distances.  If you're on a tight budget for a holo sight, the XPS2 will fit the bill.

Pros:

  • Side controls
  • Side-loading battery
  • Quick detach lever
  • Co-witness w/iron sights
  • Fog/waterproof

Cons:

  • No preferred brightness setting on start-up

The XPS2 is made for 3-gun competitions, and it's a cheaper option versus EOTech's Hybrid models.  To get you on target at speeds expected of a holo sight, this model has a the 68 MOA ring with 1 MOA center dot. 

With a .223, you can use the center dot for 50 and 200 yards and the bottom of the ring for close-range shots of 7 yards.

XPS2 view
IPSC mini targets 10 yards (left) Treeline at 400 yards with magnifier (right) - Image Credit: Range 23

To see the reticle at its best in any condition, the XPS2 has 20 brightness levels to adjust to your preferred setting.  However, you can't save your preferred brightness setting as it will kick back to the default setting on start-up, this seems like a bit of a drawback to me.  Note: this is non-compatible with NV gear.

With a CR123 lithium battery, you'll have up to 600 hours of continuous use on nominal brightness setting at room temperature.  I like the side-loading battery compartment with a threaded cap keeps the battery in place while keeping dirt, debris, and water out. 

While this sight can get you out to 300 yards faster and more accurately than iron sights alone, it is compatible with use of a magnifier for when you need easy transition for close to long-range shooting.

Available at: Amazon and Optics Planet (use code TTAMERS for 5% off at Optics Planet)

5. EOTech 512 - Best EOTech Holographic Sight

EOTech 512
Image Credit: EOTech

The 512 is a long-time favorite, and I can see why.  With an entry-level price tag (for a holo sight) and all the good ol' tech you need to get dead-on in an instant, the 512 does it.

Pros:

  • Price
  • Battery life
  • 1 MOA dot
  • 1x magnification
  • Unlimited eye relief

Cons:

  • Bulky

The 512 takes 2 AA batteries to operate and this makes for a longer and heavier build.  It's 11.5 oz and 5.6 x 2 x 2.5" in size.  It'll take up some rail space, but it's still so much shorter than a LPVO (low power variable optic).

You can depend on that battery juice to provide up to 1000 hours of continuous use with lithium batteries at brightness setting 12, or you can expect up to 600 hours with alkaline batteries.  No need to detach the sight to replace batteries as it has a top-loading battery compartment with a cap latch.

EOTech 512 batteries
Top loading battery compartment (top) AA batteries (bottom) - Image Credit: Sportsman's Warehouse

To get zeroed, adjustments can be made with a coin or flathead screwdriver since it features the cross-slot style.  I really like the aluminum hood and 10 ft submersible body was made to endure the abuse of extreme conditions.

The reticle is the popular, and one of my favorites, the 1 MOA dot with a 68 MOA ring intended for close-range and fast target acquisition shooting.  This EOTech is compatible to mount to both 1" Weaver and standard Picatinny rails.

With 20 brightness settings, widely available AA batteries, and a programmable 4 or 8 hour auto shut-off, I would recommend the 512 as a simple and affordable holosight for both beginners and intermediate shooters.

Available at: Amazon and Optics Planet (use code TTAMERS for 5% off at Optics Planet)

6. Holosun 510C Red Dot Sight

quick detach mount on Holosun HS510C
Image by Tina Fa'apoi (Own Work) for Target Tamers

The Holosun 510C is not a holographic sight but is often compared to them. I test it out to give you a comparison between EOTech holographic sights and the Holosun.

Pros:

  • Dual power sources
  • Ultra-long battery life
  • Shake Awake
  • Build quality
  • Quick detach mount

Cons:

  • Reflex sight

As a general rule, holographic and reflex sights are both red dot sights. The main difference is that the Holosun has LED technology versus the laser diode in a holographic sight. It’s not necessarily a drawback but a key design difference I think is worth noting.  

A very attractive feature I find crucial, and you will too, is the long-lasting battery life and dual power sources compared in my full test review. Auto mode provides ambient-controlled brightness and draws power from the integrated solar panel.

It’s ideal as a fail-safe for when the CR2032 battery fails in Manual mode.

YouTube video

With Shake Awake, you can adjust the sleep timer for “always-on” operation. The quick detach mount I thoroughly cover makes things easy and convenient for dismounts and remounts if you switch out optics on your AR-15 like myself and many others do.

No need to question build quality with the Holosun.

Torture tests should have everyone convinced that this is a sight that will last both you and I a lifetime.

Available at: Amazon and Optics Planet (use code TTAMERS for 5% off at Optics Planet)

What to Look for in a Holographic Sight System

Survival Shooter Looking Through Holographic Sight

The most popular question to be asked when looking to buy a holographic sight is how it differs from a red dot sight.  Learn about that here and what features you need in a holo sight to get the right kind of features before you buy. 

They're not cheap optics, so you want to get it right the first time you choose.

Technology: Holographic Sights VS Red Dots

Comparing red dot sights to holographic sights
Image by Tina Fa'apoi (Own Work) for Target Tamers

With their HUD displays, small and compact builds, and unlimited eye relief, it can be really difficult to tell the difference between a holo sight and a red dot.  Add to that consumer misconception about the two, and it gets even harder.

A red dot and holo sight both may use the iconic "red dot" aiming point, but they have two completely different systems.  A red dot uses an LED to illuminate a projected dot on coated glass. 

SIZE WEIGHT left Sig Sauer Romeo 5 right EOTech EXPS3
Sig Sauer Romeo 5 red dot VS EOTech EXPS3 holographic sight - Image by Tina Fa'apoi (Own Work) for Target Tamers

Holo sights use a series of lasers and mirrors of a holographic image of a reticle that is sandwiched between glass.  The appearance of the reticle to the eye seems to be projected in the distance  either on the target or in between the target and the optic. 

Because of this type of technology, holo sights are easier to use as you're focusing on the target itself and the reticle becomes crisp and clear.

Build: Holographic Sights VS Red Dots

EOTech broken front lens
Broken front lens - Image Credit: North Sylva

Holographic sights can be used in extreme conditions such as when the front lens gets damaged.

It doesn't hinder the internal mechanics that seems to project the reticle out into the field.  They often have a wider field of view (as in the size of the window lens) than red dots, and the center dot can be as small as 1 MOA.

MAGNIFICATION Looking at conex container 205 yards away LEFT through EOTech EXPS3 VS RIGHT through STNGR Axiom II Both are non-magnified ie 1x magnification
Wide window makes for wider FOV. Connex container at 205 yards at 1x magnification with holographic sight (left) VS red dot sight (right) - Image by Tina Fa'apoi (Own Work) for Target Tamers

However, the drawbacks to using a holographic sight are often a red dot's advantages.  Red dot sights have a much lower starting price.  They're widely available because the technology is less costly and is uncomplicated compared to holos. 

LEDs don't draw as much power as laser diodes and red dots can often be left on for 50,000 hours or 5 years.  They're also smaller and more compact and can be mounted to pistols. 

BATTERY LIFE left EOTech EXPS3 CR123A battery 1000 hours Right Vortex Crossfire RDS CR2032 battery 50000 hours
Holographic sight w/1000 hours & CR123A battery (left) VS red dot sight w/50,000 hours & CR2032 battery (right) - Image by Tina Fa'apoi (Own Work) for Target Tamers

While the differing features may not be of great concern to many consumers, the difference lies in the technology.  Like many things, the choice between the two is a matter of preference.

For more about this, we wrote a full holographic versus red dot sight article, complete with photograph comparisons - check it out!

Budget/Price of a Holosight

EOTech collage
Image by Tina Fa'apoi (Own Work) for Target Tamers

Holographic sights are expensive optics often starting around $400 for base models.  Combined in packages with other optics, such as a magnifier, they can cost $1000 (approx.) for the pair. 

Due to budget restrictions and perceived value, many opt for a higher-end red dot sight over the price of a base model holographic sight.  A high-end holographic sight can cost over $600.

ProductPrice RangeFeatures
Vortex Razor AMG UH-1 Gen II$500-600NV compatible, FHQ tech to reduce glare & stray light, integrated QD mount and EBR-CQB reticle.
EOTech HHS I EXPS3-4 w/G33$1200-$1400NV compatible, included G33 magnifier to get long-range sight, switch-to-side mount.
EOTech XPS3$600-$700NV compatible, lightweight, built in mount, co-witness with rear iron sights.
EOTech XPS2$400-$500Quick detach lever, co-witness with iron sights, side controls.
EOTech 512$400-$500Most affordable option, popular 1 MOA dot with 68 MOA ring, top loading battery.
Holosun 510C$300-$400Dual power source with 50,000 hour battery life, NV compatible, interchangeable reticles.
Price/Feature Comparisons

Holographic Sight Brand

EOTech in action
Image Credit: EOTech

EOTech was the only manufacturer of holographic sights for the consumer market for shooting sports for just over a decade.  Because of this, holo sight availability is limited.  Vortex is now a player in the holographic sight industry, and it's a hope of many that this will boost the holo sight market with a more extensive selection.

But, you may have seen many other sights marketed as holographic sights and with a very low price tags by other brands.  These are not true holo sights and are red dot sights by definition if you look at the technology.

Additionally, be vendor-specific when buying a holographic sight as it is known fact that there are Chinese counterfeit products in circulation.

Battery Power of Holographic Sights

EOTech battery installation
Image Credit: Brownells, Inc

Holographic sights draw much more power to operate versus a red dot sight.  Vortex provides a rechargeable battery option or a CR123 battery to operate the Razor AMG UH-1.  EOTech models will require AA batteries or 123 lithium batteries.

Battery life will depend on usage, but holo sights in general are capable of providing 600-1000 hours of continuous use.

ProductBatteryLoadingPower
Vortex Razor AMG UH-1 Gen II1 x CR123Side 1500 hours continuous use at medium setting
EOTech HHS I EXPS3-4 w/G331 x CR123Side 1000 hours continuous hours at nominal setting (12)
EOTech XPS31 x CR123Side 1000 hours continuous hours at nominal setting (12)
EOTech XPS21 x CR123Side 1000 hours continuous hours at nominal setting (12)
EOTech 5122 x AA BatteriesTop2500 hours of continuous use with lithium batteries, 2200 hours with alkaline (on brightness setting 12)
Holosun 510C1 x CR2032Side50,000 hours with 2 MOA Dot, 20,000 hours with 2 MOA Dot/65 MOA Ring, backup power with fail-safe solar panel.
Battery Life Comparisons

Holographic Sight Reticles

Holographic VS red dot sight reticles
EOTech EXPS3 (left) VS Holosun HS510C (right) - Image by Tina Fa'apoi (Own Work) for Target Tamers

Reticles are a matter of preference.  Most will incorporate a 1 MOA center dot as the aiming point and a circle surrounding it to rapidly draw the eye to the center.  There are also reticle designs available with ballistic holdover dots, ranging scales, and various other options.

ProductReticleBrightness Settings
Vortex Razor AMG UH-1 Gen IIEBR-CQB – 1 MOA center dot with segmented circle and bottom triangle post15 daylight settings + 8 night vision settings
EOTech HHS I EXPS3-4 w/G3360 MOA ring with vertical and horizontal stadia and 4x 1 MOA dots20 daylight settings + 10 settings for compatibility with Gen 1-3 NV Devices
EOTech XPS368 MOA Ring with 1 MOA Center Dot20 daylight settings + 10 settings for compatibility with Gen 1-3 NV Devices
EOTech XPS268 MOA Ring with 1 MOA Center Dot20 Daylight Settings
EOTech 51268 MOA Ring with 1 MOA Center Dot20 Daylight Settings
Holosun 510C2 MOA Dot, 65 MOA Ring, 2 MOA Dot + 65 MOA RingAuto Mode, Manual Mode with 9 Daylight settings + 2 NV compatible settings
Reticle Comparisons

Size/Weight of the Holographic Sight

Red dots vs holographic sight size
Image Credit: Brownells, Inc

Holographic sights are small, if you're comparing it to a rifle scope or even holo sights used in the military decades ago.  However, when compared with red dots, they're bulky in size and weight.  They weigh around 11 oz with EOTech's 9 oz XPS2 and XPS3 models weighing the lightest at 9 oz.

Because of the battery requirements and holo technology, they're big compared to red dots.  They're typically around 3-4" in height, 2-3" in width, and 2-6" in length - not compatible with pistols.

ProductSizeWeight
Vortex Razor AMG UH-1 Gen II3.9"11.6 oz
EOTech HHS I EXPS3-4 w/G333.8 x 2.3 x 2.9"11.2 oz
EOTech XPS33.8 x 2.1 x 2.5"9 oz
EOTech XPS23.8 x 2.1 x 2.5"9 oz
EOTech 5125.6 x 2.0 x 2.5"11.5 oz
Holosun 510C3.3 x 1.68 x 1.78"5 oz
Size/Weight Comparisons

Field of View of the Holo Sight

Red dot vs holographic sight FOV
Image Credit: Training Guns and Gear

Because of the HUD and rectangular window of the holo sight, they tend to offer a wider field of view than red dots.  It makes it easier to use with both eyes open and head and cheek welds are easier to repeat and use.  Red dots with smaller windows or even with the tube-style design may require you to get a little closer to focus and may be less forgiving with eye relief.

ProductField of View
Vortex Razor AMG UH-130 yd @ 100 yd (approx.)
EOTech HHS I EXPS3-4 w/G3330 yd @ 100 yd at 3" eye relief
EOTech XPS330 yd @ 100 yd at 3" eye relief
EOTech XPS230 yd @ 100 yd at 3" eye relief
EOTech 51230 yd @ 100 yd at 3" eye relief
Holosun HS510C37' @ 100 yards at 2.75" eye relief with magnifier
Field of View Comparisons

FAQ's About Holographic Sights

What are the Best Holographic Sights?

• Best Overall: Vortex Razor AMG UH-1 Gen II
• Best Tactical: EOTech HHS I EXPS3-4 w/G33 Magnifier
• Best for AR-15: EOTech XPS3 Holographic Sight
• Best for Competition: EOTech XPS2
• Best Budget Option: EOTech 512

What’s the Best Holographic Sight for an AR-15?

The best holographic sight for an AR-15 is the EOTech XPS3. With a .223 calibrated 1 MOA dot 68 MOA ring reticle and an integrated mount that fits Picatinny rails, it is well-suited to an AR. Since little mounting space is used, a NV clip-on or magnifier would be a fitting match to the XPS3.

Are Holographic Sights Better Than Red Dots?

There are pros and cons for either a holographic sight or red dot. Budget may determine the winning sight for your firearm. While holographics project the reticle, tend to have 1 MOA dots, and are extremely fast to employ, red dots are simpler, more compact, and have longer battery life.

Why are Holographic Sights so Expensive?

Holographic sights are expensive because they require sophisticated methods and components to manufacture. They’re essentially parallax-free and are mechanically more robust than red dot sights. Price points are also significant due to there being only two manufacturers: EOTech and Vortex.

Is Holosun a True Holographic?

Holosun sights are not true holographic sights. Example, the Holosun 510C is a reflex sight with a favored open HUD design that uses an LED and convex lens to create a reflective image and aiming point. There are benefits about the Holosun that deems it a good alternative to a holographic sight

Notes: EOTech VS US Government

Using the EOTech in awkward positions
Image Credit: EOTech

There's a lot of talk and consumer misconception about the lawsuit against EOTech and the product recall in effect by the manufacturer, so we'll briefly address it here.

In 2015, EOTech lost a lawsuit against the US Government for civil fraud.  There were two, major issues that were brought to light: thermal drift and moisture incursion.

EOTech announced in April 2016 that they remedied the moisture incursion that caused lenses to fog up and reduce reticle brightness intensity.  However, the thermal drift issue remains yet to be remedied.  The issue is, in extreme temperatures, your zero can be off as much as 12" at 300 yards.

One such thought is that battery-operated optics are often subject to operating temperatures of the batteries.  As much as manufacturers can try to counteract this with various construction materials, builds, and protective features, it's still prone to faulty operation.  There's also the issue of what constitutes extreme shifts in temperatures. 

For the average, recreational shooter, there is very little to no concern of thermal drift occurring.  However, for extreme conditions that may be experienced in military operations, extreme Winter hunting, and such, this defect must be considered.

It also must be said that L-3 Communications (parent company of EOTech), "one of the largest defense companies in the US" is still under contract to provide clip-on optics and close-quarter sights.  In fact, L3 announced in January 2019 that EOTech Optics won a $26.3 million contract  by U.S. Special Operations Command. 

While this is rewarding news to the company, it's not new news.  EOTech has been outfitting the military since 2001.

Not everyone is ready to throw out or disregard EOTech.  What will you choose?

With a Holo Sight . . .

Holographic sights mounted to AR
Image Credit: Vortex

With a holo sight, you have a 1 MOA dot, the smallest, available dot in the industry.

With a holo sight, you have a rectangular HUD display with an increased field of view to get on target without compromising situational awareness.

With a holo sight and use of a magnifier, your 1 MOA dot will always be 1 MOA to promote accuracy at all distances you dare shoot.

All this amounts to fast target acquisition, speed, and dependability.

With a holo sight, it's just better.

Further Reading

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Simon Cuthbert - Founder

Simon is an avid outdoor enthusiast and the founder of Target Tamers. He is passionate about bringing you the most up to date, accurate & understandable information on sports optics of all kinds and for all applications. Simon has contributed to notable publications online and teaches beginners the technical side of optics through his extensive library of optics guides.

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2 thoughts on “6 Best Holographic Sights In 2024 - We Review 5 True Holo's & a Bonus”

    • Hi Monty. It's less about comparing the rear controls of the Vortex AMG against the EOTech XPS-3 than it is about comparing the XPS-3 VS EXPS-3. Vortex only has the one holographic sight and it is what it is. An engaged magnifier is still going to get in the way with access to the buttons on the AMG just like the XPS3. However, the EXPS3 has side buttons, so in comparing that to the XPS3, the EXPS3 has an advantage over the XPS3. I hope that makes sense. It will still come down to if you decide if it's a pro or a con. Thanks for the question!

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