Want to know if a holographic sight is right for you?
The best holographic sights are expensive, and there’s a lot of bad information out there (magnifiers magnify any reticle, friends).
We bought the most popular holographic sights plus one underdog contender and tested them so you don’t have to. We’ll also go explain the differences between holographic sights and red dots at the end.
So let’s dive in!
THE QUICK LIST
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Best Overall
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Best Value
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Best Battery Run Time
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Most Compact
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Best Lookalike Red Dot
Table of Contents
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Holographic Sight Comparison Chart
| Reticle | Weight | Waterproof Rating | Battery | Battery Run Time | Night Vision-Compatible | Price | |
| EOTech EXPS2 | EOTech One Dot, EOTech Two Dot | 11 oz | 10 ft | CR123A | 1,000 hrs | No | $631 |
| Vortex AMG UH-1 | EBR-CQB | 12 oz | 10 ft | CR123A | 1,000 hrs | Yes | $599 |
| EOTech Model 512 | EOTech One Dot | 12 oz | 10 ft | Two AA | 2,500 hrs (lithium), 2,200 hrs (alkaline) | No | $499 |
| EOTech XPS2 | EOTech One Dot, EOTech Two Dot | 9 oz | 10 ft | CR123 | 1,000 hrs | No | $499 |
| Holosun 510C | 2-MOA dot and 65-MOA ring | 5 oz | IP67 | CR2032 | 50,000 hrs | Yes | $309 |
How We Tested the Best Holographic Sights
We’ve used these sights for years with some numbering into the 5,000+ round count. They’ve been with us through rifle testing, classes, competition, and even under night vision goggles.
This experience gave us great insight into the usability and reliability of the units.
We have put our favorite EOTech model under hot, cold, and impact testing to make sure that it would survive almost any scenario.
Several testers have mild astigmatism and can attest to the difference shooting with holographic sights can make compared to regular red dots.
Best Holographic Sights
1. EOTech EXPS2 – Best Overall
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Faster acquisition compared to red dots
- Comes with quick-detach mount
- Great reticle
- Smaller footprint than 512 model
Cons
- Only 600 hours battery life
Stats
- Reticle: EOTECH One Dot, EOTECH Two Dot
- Weight: 11 oz
- Waterproof Rating: 10 ft
- Battery: CR123A
- Battery Run Time: 1,000 hrs
- Night Vision-Compatible: No
EOTech is the giant in the holographic sight game and fielded by lots of US special operations units. We pay homage with our MK18 builds with the EOTech EXPS2.
It has a big rectangular window that is very clear.
The EXPS2-0 features the famous EOTech One Dot reticle. It has a 68-MOA circle with a 1-MOA dot in the center. At 100 yards, the big circle will cover roughly 68 inches while the center dot will cover a hair over one inch.
You can also get this optic with the EOTech Two Dot reticle, which adds a second 1-MOA hold for 500-yard shots. This one is the EXPS2-2.
EOTech’s reticles strike a perfect blend of quick acquisition and fine-tuned accuracy. Plus, you can add a flip-up 3x magnifier to extend your shooting range — see more in out guide to the Best 3x Magnifiers!
All holographic sights will look a little fuzzy; that’s perfectly normal. When you have both your eyes open and are shooting at targets, it doesn’t affect anything.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Here it is at the range. I had trouble getting clear shots of the reticle, but it works great even on the sunniest of days in the desert.
Here’s a better image of it inside.
The shorter EOTechs have a couple of variants…but I like the EXPS2 compared to the regular XPS line since it is 1/3 co-witness. That means it doesn’t get in the way as much if you run backup iron sights.
It also has a robust quick-detach (QD) rail system and buttons on the side (this placement is essential if you’re going to run a magnifier directly behind the optic).
EOTech lists the EXPS2 as not night vision-compatible, but I’ve run the EXPS2-0 on its lowest setting with my night vision goggles and they have worked fine.
Here’s a video of it in action with a little simulated head movement to show how it’s devoid of almost all parallax (moving your head will keep the reticle in the same location).
The reticle makes it super easy for close-up shots when I used the optic for pistol caliber carbine (PCC) competitions. While the 1 MOA dot was useful for farther plate racks.
I even took it on and off a couple of times while testing, and it always held zero.
And how about some extreme abuse? We submerged it in water, cycled it through extreme hot and cold temperatures, dropped it, and then shot it with different loads.
It demonstrated incredible survival skills in our High End Optics Torture Test and earned a place on my dedicated night vision AR-15.
And if you want a cool FDE color, there’s an OPMOD edition that also comes with a matching EOTech magnifier.
What do you think of the EOTech EXPS2-0?
2. Vortex AMG UH-1 – Best Value
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
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Pros
- Versatile reticle
- Rechargeable battery
- Built like a tank
- 1500 hour battery life
Cons
- Greenish hue is distracting
Stats
- Reticle: EBR-CQB
- Weight: 12 oz
- Waterproof Rating: 10 ft
- Battery: CR123A
- Battery Run Time: 1,000 hrs
- Night Vision-Compatible: Yes
The Vortex AMG UH-1 is the only real holographic contender to EOTech. It’s affectionately known as the “Huey” because of the UH-1 designation *Fortunate Son begins playing in the distance*.
The second-generation AMG UH-1 Gen II is built like a tank. It looks much bigger than the EOTech EXPS2, but it’s about the same length. The extra hood that protects everything just makes it seem larger.
The Huey has established a solid track record since it was released. Plus, it’s a Vortex, so it has a lifetime transferable warranty.
This reticle is my favorite out of the bunch. It has a 1-MOA center dot, a 65-MOA broken circle for close-quarters shooting, and a triangle chevron at the bottom for extremely close engagements when you need to use manual offset aiming.
I set my zero at 25 yards for PCC competitions, but if you zero at the standard 100 yards the triangle will really help when you’re up close and personal. It also has a great QD mount that maintained zero during testing.
One thing I gotta knock it down for is the green tint. It’s a lot more apparent than the EOTech, which is nearly imperceptible if it has tint at all.
It didn’t matter too much during actual shooting, but looking at it by itself it bugs me a little.
Another downside is that the buttons are on the back so it might also interfere with magnifiers.
When all is said and done, this is my recommendation if you want to get into the holographic sight game at a slightly lower entry fee.
And now it’s available in tan!
3. EOTech 512 – Best Battery Run Time
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- EOTech's most affordable model
- Up to 1,000 hours of battery life
- Lightweight
- Water-resistant
Cons
- Uses screw attachments
Stats
- Reticle: EOTech One Dot
- Weight: 12 oz
- Waterproof Rating: 10 ft
- Battery: Two AA
- Battery Run Time: 2,500 hrs (lithium), 2,200 hrs (alkaline)
- Night Vision-Compatible: No
The EOTech 512 is the company’s most popular and most affordable holographic sight.
It’s very long because it uses AA batteries. The good news is that AA batteries are easier to find than CR123 batteries, and they last much longer.
You’ll get up to 2,500 hours of battery life with a lithium AA batteries and a 2,200 hours with regular alkaline AA batteries.
It also uses a screw attachment instead of the quick-detach mounting system. That means it weighs less, costs less, and gives you absolute co-witness with iron sights.
It will provide you with the same great reticle and faster acquisition than a red dot, just like the more expensive EOTechs.
4. EOTech XPS2 – Most Compact
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Smallest EOTech model
- 600 hours of operation
- Buttons moved to the front
- More affordable than EXPS
Cons
- Uses a screw mount instead of quick detach
- Harder to use with magnifier
Stats
- Reticle: EOTech One Dot, EOTech Two Dot
- Weight: 9 oz
- Waterproof Rating: 10 ft
- Battery: CR123
- Battery Run Time: 1,000 hrs
- Night Vision-Compatible: No
Want a more compact holographic sight that works well with backup iron sights? Check out the EOTech XPS2.
Like the 512, the XPS2 screws onto a Picatinny rail so you save a couple bucks without a QD-mount. That also keeps it nice and low, so you’ll have an easier time using backup irons.
Reticle options are the same as with the EXPS-2, as are the -0 and -2 designations.
The buttons are also moved to the front, which works easier for unmagnified applications. If you plan on adding a magnifier, it’s better to have the extra height and buttons to the side of the EXPS2.
This is my pick if you don’t plan on moving your optic a lot, don’t use a magnifier, and want to save a few bucks. If you catch the XPS2 on sale, it’s as affordable as the 512.
5. Holosun 510C – Best Lookalike Red Dot
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Pros
- Ultra-crisp reticle
- Long battery life
- Lightweight
- Solar backup
Cons
- Not technically a holographic sight
- Exposed LED emitter
Stats
- Reticle: 2-MOA dot and 65-MOA ring
- Weight: 5 oz
- Waterproof Rating: IP67
- Battery: CR2032
- Battery Run Time: 50,000 hrs
- Night Vision-Compatible: Yes
Disclaimer: the Holosun 510C is not a holographic sight. It’s a red dot that looks a lot like the iconic EOTechs.
But it’s a great budget-friendly alternative!
Do you love the big ring with little dot reticle? It’s become almost synonymous with holographic sights so we included one red dot with it.
This optic brings together the best of both worlds by using energy-saving LED technology and the more advanced reticle found in holographic sights, except its noticeably more crisp.
The center is a 2-MOA while the outside ring is 65 MOA. You can also cycle between using the dot only, ring only, or the combo.
Since this is a simpler system, a tiny CR2032 battery will run this reticle for 50,000 hours. On top of that, it has a solar panel that will bypass the battery and use the sun’s energy to stretch it even further.
One downside of making the LED so efficient is a green hue. Again, it was hard to get good pictures at the range and the tint isn’t that big of a deal.
If you’re solely looking for the ring and dot reticle, you can’t go wrong with this affordable, durable optic.
Buttons are on the side for easy access, it has a QD attachment system that maintains zero, and it works with night vision.
This is my pick for the best worth-it “holographic-esque” sight that has the ring and dot reticle.
How to Choose the Best Holographic Sight
Deciding among these awesome optics can be tough, and it doesn’t get much easier when you consider how many fantastic red dots you can buy for a fraction of the price. Here’s what you need to know to make an informed decision.
Why would you even want a holographic sight instead of a red dot? We have a super in-depth article for that, but here are the basics.
Red dots (or reflex sights) have an LED that project a dot toward a lens, which is specially coated so that it bounces back toward your eye. It’s super simple, which keeps prices down.
Holographic sights use a laser-transmitted hologram of a reticle through a series of lenses back to your eye.
It’s way more complicated and costs a bunch of money to produce.
To put it simply, holographic sights make it easier to focus on the target and the reticle works much better for people with astigmatism.
The tradeoff is a heavier optic that burns through batteries quicker than a simple red dot. You also tend to get a bigger view window with holographic sights.
Why Trust Pew Pew Tactical
This article comes to you from Pew Pew Tactical Founder and CEO Eric Hung himself!
Eric is an NRA-certified pistol instructor and a USPSA, 3-Gun, and NRL22 competitor. He has also researched and written more than 250 articles on firearms and gear. He brings this expertise to this article, offering his perspective on these holographic sights.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for something more durable and sophisticated than a simple red dot, holographic sights are the way to go.
The big player (and my favorite model) is the EOTech EXPS2-0. It has the clearest glass, great button placement, and decent battery life.
Did we miss any holographic sights out there? If you’re set on EOTechs and want to see even more models, check out our guide to the Best EOTech Models!
LATEST UPDATES
- March 2025: Added comparative data
- April 2024: Added “How We Test” section and additional information for each choice.
44 Leave a Reply
Because of Vortex’s warranty it’s the UMG.
the Holosun 510C and the Vortex - that slight greenish tint you see is an anti-glare coating on the glass. An anti-glare coating is desirable if you are going to be in bright sun light.
"…it’s technically NOT a holographic sight.
But instead the Holosun 510C"
Ok, its not a holographic sight, period. There is no "technically not".
However, if you aren't already infected by the hype about EOTech, and even if you are, for 99.9999999% of you the Holosun 510C is the better choice.
If you aren't already infected by the hype about EOTech, and even if you are, for 99.9999999% of you the Holosun 510C is the better choice.
I have several EOTechs. They were my go to until I tried the Holosun 510c. Now it's all I buy for this type of optic. It's really hard to beat for the price. It kind of makes me sick using my EOTechs knowing how much I paid for them. I suppose my EOTechs might hold up better if I were in battle....but I'm not in battle nor will I likely ever be. Nevertheless, the Holosun 510c is build like a tank too. I'm sure it would hold up just fine.
Out of all the info given here, you still did not give me any idea which was the best.
Hello. I'm a bit late to the party, but I bought the Holosun after reading this article. I do have a concern which sparks a question if you can help please. It seems to me that in a heavy rain the Holosun's emitter will wash out? Seems like the cavity where the light comes out would pool with water?
So if you use a Holosun hs510/512 with a 3x magnifier, will the reticle still be 6 moa at 100 yards just like any 2x red dot or does the holographic reticle allow it to still be 2 moa at 100 yards? Is it still better than a regular red dot to mate to a 3x magnifier? Thanks.
Do the EOTechs still shut off randomly under recoil?
The Huey is great with the m16. Unless you're blind you'll hit every shot quicker and with more accuracy.
You can change the strength of the light make it perfect for both day/night use.
U so hung
After looking at EOTech vs Holosun, I got the Holosun. One thing I noticed that sold me right away was how clear the Holosun was compared to the EOTechs. The shake and wake tech is awesome. My primary use is for home defense and at the range and the Holosun is perfect for my lifestyle. I ended up buying one from an authorized dealer because several sellers on Amazon have had complaints about counterfeits. Also, their warranty is only valid if purchased through an authorized dealer.
Great article Eric. What 3x magnifier are you using for the Holosun 510c? Does it line up perfectly
WHAT ARE THE VIEWING WINDOW DIMENSIONS OF THESE THREE SIGHTS? HOW DO YOU RANK THEM IN TARGET ACQUISITION?
Hi all,
I always get confused with titles like "best red dot" etc. If I understand correctly these are only for riffles, not handguns. Would really help to clarify that.
I am in the market for a red dot for hand gun and 90% of the reviews are for riffles. :-)
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Oliver
Hi Oliver, we're going to have a Best Pistol Red Dots article coming out in the next 2 weeks.
How might the Holosun 512T compare?
Does the tube interfere with sight picture?
Just for looks?
I haven't tried that one out yet but it looks to be a reflex/red dot sight.
Can someone explain WHY the Holosun 510C is not the #1 choice?
The author wrote as if the Holosun has all the best features, except for the tint, yet rated it #3 ???
Hi JJ, it’s since the Holosun isn’t a true “holographic” sight so I can’t give it the win for the category. But if you like the reticle that’s used by EOTech and Vortex…the Holosun is awesome.
I get the article is titled and categorized as "holographic", but as a user, I care more about the application than the technology, and what it does for me. To me, it looks like Holosun advanced the technology to combine both features of the holographic reticle with long battery life.
BUT, I'm concerned about Holosun's open projection of the 510C, which would mean dirt/mud would block the projection. Does Eotech also have the laser exposed, and dirt/mud can block the projection?
I'm thinking Holosun 512T tubular design enclosed the projection so dirt/mud won't be an issue.
I was wondering the same thing, but realized the article is titled best holographic sight. But based on his review, and my personal experience with them all, I don't know why you would choose a holographic sight over one of the Holosun sights. They basically do everything the holographic sights do, but better. There are a few key features of the 510c not mentioned in this review
-It has a shake awake and auto off feature, so you never have to worry about turning it on or off. It's turns off after inactivity, and will turn on before you can bring the sight to your face.
-the reticle is variable, so you can switch between circle, circle dot, or just circle. I like each for different applications.
-its much crisper than an Eotech and doesn't have that fuzzy appearance
-Price!!!! It's doing everything better for half the price
-It has a titanium hood over the lense to increase durability. I don't believe either of the other sights is made of titanium.
The other sights don't offer those options. In my opinion, the HS510c is a clear winner over the other two. I know it's mentioned above, but I had to mention in again 50,000 and solar! As long as you have light, real or artificial, it will work. I use it without a battery on bright sunny days just because I can.
I never see the Meprolight RDS in any of these roundup reviews. It's used by the IDF, so it's a worthy contender. I got one b/c I always felt the viewing field was too small on the Eotech. I've shot about 2k 30 cal rounds with it on+it never failed.
Honestly this review makes no sense. Battery life? Holosun - Like 1500,2500 vs. 50,000. Price? Holosun - No questions. Innovation? Holosun - The holographic tech. is 22 years old and honestly is terrible clarity and is given to problems. An LED sight like Holosun or others that use an LED system and Holosun is not given to the same important issues ie massive thermal drift. Holosun also throws in a capacitor driven solar mode and 3 reticles? Just not sure how in the world you came to this conclusion.
I love Vortex products, but don't see how it beat out the Holosun. The Vortex "tube" partially obstructs your view, has the button placement issue when used with a magnifier, and is more expensive. As far as durability goes, I watched a video of the Holosun being torture tested+it did great. I think they even shot it with buckshot+it still worked.
I agree man. Vortex magnified stuff is great. But that UH-1 vs. 510C is not even a competition. I also saw the video of the guy shooting it with a shotgun and then remounting it and ringing steel. I don't own an Elite Holosun yet, but I heard they upped their game to a lifetime warranty on that line. I know no one wants to admit it fully, but Holosun has wrecked a stale... either junky or overly expensive red dot market. New leaders IMO.
Hi Bill, it's since the Holosun isn't a true "holographic" sight so I can't give it the win for the category. But if you like the reticle that's used by EOTech and Vortex...the Holosun is awesome.
Question: do the holographic sights have the red dot flare problem of you have cataracts? Unfortunately, I sent back a d dot sight due to flare which turned to be my cataracts. My condition is mild per the doctor.
I'm unsure about cataracts...but they still have the same problem as red dots with astigmatism. Best remedy is getting the correct prescription and/or choosing the smallest MOA dot.
So what isn't to like about the Holosun? You seem to give it points on all aspects, but don't rate it with the others?
Asked myself the same thing. That 510C beats all the others hands down.
It's great but isn't a true "holographic" sight.
I have the Vortex, and I love it! But the shake and wake feature should be a given for any of these sights!
I find it funny that none of your selections were tritium powered. My reflex2 (purchased in 2002) now is dimming down if you aren't outside. I personally don't like the bloom on any of the eotech, but I really like their magnifying dodad.
Hi Aaron, I tried to stick with holographic technology ones only but decided to put the Holosun in there since many people are looking for the reticle.
I've been looking for a holographic sight that would go best with the leupold D-EVO, which do you think would be best?
Hey John, I've actually never seen a D-EVO in the wild yet so I can't give you a good answer. But all the pictures I've been able to find have been paired with a Leupold red dot.
Still run my 2013 512. Eotech always been good to go. Even in our harsh western NY (Buffalo) winters and humid hor summers. Never turned it in never failed.
Thanks John!
Hello. one thing i would like to mention with the holosun 510c is that it has two features that i really like. One is the shake awake or motion awake feature. You can pick up your weapon and it will turn on, meaning you can always have it turned on ready to go. . Also is has a solar panel which can conserve battery life. I wanted an EOtech but just couldnt spend that much on an optic at that time, i feel like the holosun is an amesome compromise at 200 bucks less.
Great points Steve!
Your reviews are the best,however i see no reason for you to brag about being HUNG.
Gotta agree. EOTechs have served me well for years. Have used different Vortex systems for a couple years (their customer service and replacement services are second to none). Red dots are ok but I wouldn’t use them on working weapons.
Thanks Monte!