Thermal imaging binoculars will show you different colors based on the temperature of the surroundings. Therefore, if used for hunting, you will be able to see your prey stand out in terms of showing a different color. Night vision binoculars rely on visible light or an IR illuminator. These binoculars will amplify light into glowing green images and give you more detailed images. In summary, thermal imaging binoculars are best used for detection, whereas night vision binoculars are for identification.