Table of Contents
- Our Top Picks
- Comparison of the Best Holographic Sights
- How We Choose + Our Must-Have Features
- 8 Best Holographic Sights
- Best Overall: EOTECH EXPS2 Holographic Weapon Sight
- Best Holographic Sight for the Money: Sightmark Ultra Shot M-Spec Reflex Sight
- Best for Tactical Use: Vortex Optics AMG UH-1 Gen II Holographic Sight
- EOTECH 512 Holographic Weapon Sight
- EOTECH EXPS3 Holographic Weapon Sight
- EOTECH XPS2 Holographic Weapon Sight
- EOTECH 552 Holographic Weapon Sight
- HOLOSUN HS510C
- FAQs
- Conclusion: Best Holographic Sight
Our Top Picks
Overall Best Holographic Sight
EOTECH EXPS2
This holographic sight is perfect for serious shooters.
- Magnification: 9.5/10
- Reticle: 9.5/10
- Cost: 9/10
Best Holographic Sight for the Money
Sightmark Ultra Shot M-Spec
This sight is reliable and cost-effective.
- Magnification: 9.5/10
- Reticle: 9/10
- Cost: 10/10
Best Holographic Sight for Tactical Use
Vortex Optics AMG UH-1 Gen II
This holographic sight offers lightning-speed target acquisition.
- Magnification: 7/10
- Reticle: 9/10
- Cost: 9/10
Unlike red dot sights, a holographic sight works by projecting a hologram that gets created when the laser diode’s beam gets reflected several times on a series of mirrors. Holographic sights have the advantage of projecting the reticle at the distance of the target for quick target acquisition. So if you prefer rugged optics, you came to the right place! Here’s our list of the best holographic sights this year.
Comparison of the Best Holographic Sights
How We Choose + Our Must-Have Features
We’re sure you’ve chosen to buy a holographic sight because it’s what’s best for your firearm. Great job in making that decision! Now it’s time for you to take the consider the following features so you can buy the holographic sight that’s best for you.
| Features | EOTECH EXPS2 | Sightmark Ultra Shot M-Spec | Vortex AMG UH-1 Gen II | EOTECH 512 | EOTECH EXPS3 | EOTECH XPS2 | EOTECH 552 | Holosun HS510C | Category Average |
| Overall Score | 3.73 | 3.18 | 2.63 | 3.15 | 3.33 | 3.23 | 3.27 | 4.08 | 3.325 |
| Optics | 5 | 3.5 | 4 | 4.1 | 5 | 5 | 4.3 | 4.5 | 4.425 |
| Build Quality | 4.5 | 3.8 | 3.8 | 4 | 4.6 | 4.5 | 4 | 4 | 4.15 |
| Battery | 1.5 | 2.3 | 1.9 | 3.1 | 1.5 | 1.5 | 3.1 | 5 | 2.49 |
| Ergonomics | 1.7 | 4.4 | 1 | 1.6 | 1.7 | 1.7 | 1.6 | 3.4 | 2.14 |
| Value | 2.1 | 2.5 | 1.7 | 2.3 | 2.2 | 2.1 | 2.4 | 3.4 | 2.34 |
| Illumination | 4.6 | 2.6 | 3.4 | 3.8 | 5 | 4.6 | 4.2 | 4.2 | 4.05 |
Value
Holographic sights are more expensive than red dots, and their price ranges from $500-$1,000, so be prepared to break the bank. We’ve listed options below $300 below, so check them out if you’re budget-minded.
How We Score: Cost vs. Performance
Value is determined by comparing the sight’s price point against its performance and features. A sight that offers high durability, excellent optics, and user-friendly ergonomics at a reasonable price scores well. This factor ensures you get the most bang for your buck without compromising on quality.
Build Quality
Most holographic sights are constructed from high-quality materials. And we’ve picked only the toughest and most reliable optics in this article.
How We Score: Durability, Waterproofing, Size, and Shock Resistance
A good holographic sight should withstand rough handling and extreme conditions. We evaluate build quality based on the materials used (such as aircraft-grade aluminum), as well as the sight’s ability to resist water and shock. Durability ensures your sight stays operational through various environmental challenges.
Most holographic sights are mounted on but not limited to most shotguns, AR-10, AR-15, AK-47, SCAR 17, and 300 Blackout. Since holographic sights are bulky, they’re not handgun-compatible. If size matters to you because you want space for iron sights or other accessories like a magnifier, the EOTech XPS2 might work for you.
Optics
Holographic weapon sights (HWS) are known for their user-friendly reticles. That’s one reason why many shooters prefer them over red dots. Even if all holographic sight reticles are easy to use, you must get the reticle you’re most comfortable with.
Night Vision
Not all holographic sights are compatible with night vision. So if you hunt or practice shooting at night, we’ve got night vision-compatible options from EOTech and Vortex below.
How We Score: Clarity, Reticle Style, and Field of View
The optics quality is paramount. Look for sights with crystal-clear glass that offers minimal distortion. The reticle style should suit your targeting preference, whether that’s a simple dot or a more complex pattern. The field of view is also crucial; a wider view allows for easier target acquisition and situational awareness.
Battery
A holographic sight’s battery lasts only up to 500-1,000 hours. So choose a holographic optic that can accommodate your needs when it comes to power. They aren’t going to last as long as red dot sights!
How We Score: Life Span, Type, and Accessibility
Battery life is a critical consideration for electronic sights. We score this factor based on the expected lifespan of the battery under normal usage, the type of battery required (with a preference for common types that are easily replaceable), and how easy it is to change the battery without needing to remove the sight from the firearm.
Ergonomics
How We Score: Adjustability, Weight, and Ease of Use
Ergonomics factor in how well the sight integrates with your shooting style. This includes the ease of making adjustments to windage and elevation, the overall weight of the sight (which should not significantly unbalance the firearm), and the intuitiveness of any controls or settings. A sight that feels like an extension of the firearm scores higher.
Illumination
How We Score: Brightness Settings, Visibility in Various Light Conditions
Illumination is essential for visibility, particularly in low-light conditions. We assess this factor by evaluating the range of brightness settings available, ensuring there’s enough versatility to accommodate bright daylight to dim environments. Additionally, how well the reticle remains visible under different lighting conditions plays a significant role in scoring.
8 Best Holographic Sights
Best Overall: EOTECH EXPS2 Holographic Weapon Sight
| Factor | EOTECH EXPS2 | Category Average |
| Optics | 5 | 4.425 |
| Build Quality | 4.5 | 4.15 |
| Battery | 1.5 | 2.49 |
| Ergonomics | 1.7 | 2.14 |
| Value | 2.1 | 2.34 |
| Illumination | 4.6 | 4.05 |
Quick Specs:
- Reticle: 1 MOA
- Weight: 11.2 oz
- Length: 3.8 inches
- Battery life: 1,000 hours
As a pioneer in the holographic sights industry, EOTech guarantees another superior optic in the EXPS2 Holographic Sight.
This optic is proven to function even after its glass is obscured with mud or snow. The EXPS2 Holographic Sight features 20 manually adjustable brightness settings for all types of lighting. It features a quick-detach lever which is great for when you want to switch this sight back & forth between rifles.
It’s also equipped with an auto-shutdown feature that’s user-programmable for up to 8 hours. This allows you to save your battery for when it’s time for action!
Our best overall pick is expensive for a reason, so consider it as a lifetime investment.
Pros
- Comes with a 10-year warranty
- Unlimited eye relief
- Side button operation
Cons
- Expensive
- Not compatible with night vision
- Shortest battery life among our picks
What Customers Say
“I love this sight! My AR-15 is so fun to shoot with this Eotech. It was easy to sight in and it is really accurate! I love the quick detach mount. you can take it on or off in a second and it won’t lose its Zero! I got this model with the adjustments on the side rather than in the back because I plan to get the Eotech magnifier to go behind this sight. If you get the model with the adjustments on the back you can’t get to them very easily. This model is a little more money with the side adjustment but is a lot easier to access the adjustment buttons. Also wanted to get this model with the 1 battery, CR123, rather than the model with the 2, AA batteries because it is longer and takes up more space on your rail! It is a lot of money to pay for sight but worth every penny! You want the best you got to dig a little deeper into your pocketbook! I give it a FIVE STAR!”
Best Holographic Sight for the Money: Sightmark Ultra Shot M-Spec Reflex Sight
| Factor | Sightmark Ultra Shot M-Spec | Category Average |
| Optics | 3.5 | 4.425 |
| Build Quality | 3.8 | 4.15 |
| Battery | 2.3 | 2.49 |
| Ergonomics | 4.4 | 2.14 |
| Value | 2.5 | 2.34 |
| Illumination | 2.6 | 4.05 |
Quick Specs:
- Reticle: 3 MOA
- Weight: 2.3 oz
- Length: 1.73 inches
- Battery life: 2,000 hours
The Sightmark Ultra Shot M-Spec Reflex Sight is a decent option if you have a limited budget. It only has 6 brightness settings, but it will get the job done if you pick the right time to hunt or practice shooting.
For an affordable optic, the Sightmark Ultra Shot is surprisingly water-submersible up to 40 feet. It also allows parallax correction beyond 10 yards. You can also shoot with both eyes open, like our best overall pick.
The Ultra Shot M-Spec Reflex Sight also has longer battery life than most holographic sights, as it can last up to 2,000 hours on a single CR123 battery.
Pros
- Shockproof, dustproof, waterproof
- Lightest among our picks
- Affordable
- Movable sun shield
- Ample battery life
Cons
- Has minor parallax issues
What Customers Say
“Brought my old Winchester model 94 30-30 into the modern age. mounted sight mark m-spec on Pearson no drill tac rail. started put at 25 yards. 2 rounds zeroed. Took it to 100 yards and after 3 rounds I was 1 1/2 high right where I wanted. Sightmark’s m- spec has the quality of a high-end red dot at a very welcome price. great optics guys”
Best for Tactical Use: Vortex Optics AMG UH-1 Gen II Holographic Sight
| Factor | Vortex Optics AMG UH-1 Gen II | Category Average |
| Optics | 4 | 4.425 |
| Build Quality | 3.8 | 4.15 |
| Battery | 1.9 | 2.49 |
| Ergonomics | 1 | 2.14 |
| Value | 1.7 | 2.34 |
| Illumination | 3.4 | 4.05 |
Quick Specs:
- Reticle: 1 MOA
- Weight: 11.6 oz
- Length: 3.9 inches
- Battery life: 1,500 hours
The Vortex Optics AMG UH-1 Gen II Holographic Sight is perfect for close-range shooting because of its Enhanced Battle Rifle-Close Quarter Battle (EBR-CQB) reticle.
It’s also equipped with the latest Fusion Hologram with Quantum Well Light Control (FHQ) technology. This technology combines energy efficiency and reliability by eliminating stray light emissions. The result is minimal eyepiece glare, zero distortion, and a clear sight picture.
The AMG UH-1 Holographic Sight also features a quick-release mount that’s easy to install. You can also easily change batteries with this optic because its battery cover doesn’t require any tools to open. These features make the UH-1 one of the best red dots for astigmatism.
Pros
- Shockproof, fogproof, waterproof
- Lightweight
- Dedicated night vision button
Cons
- Brightness buttons are difficult to control
- Short battery life
- Heaviest among picks
What Customers Say
“Just got mine today, looks great. Crystal clear reticle (same style as the 1st Gen), no distortion and no fading around the edges. Another Vortex sight with one of the best warranties in the business. Trying to see when I can make it out to the range to zero in but I’m very excited. Will update once I make it out.”
EOTECH 512 Holographic Weapon Sight
| Factor | EOTECH 512 | Category Average |
| Optics | 4.1 | 4.425 |
| Build Quality | 4 | 4.15 |
| Battery | 3.1 | 2.49 |
| Ergonomics | 1.6 | 2.14 |
| Value | 2.3 | 2.34 |
| Illumination | 3.8 | 4.05 |
Quick Specs:
- Reticle: 1 MOA
- Weight: 11.5 oz
- Length: 5.6 inches
- Battery life: 2,500 hours
Another battle-proven optic from EOTech is the 512 Holographic Weapon Sight. Like the EXPS2, the 512 makes it easy to shoot with both eyes open.
The 512 is more budget-friendly compared to most EOTech sights while providing the same optical quality. Its brightness adjustment buttons are also very accessible for both left and right-handed shooters.
What makes the EOTech 512 Holographic Sight versatile is its compatibility with AA and CR123 lithium batteries. You can also mount this optic to a 1″ Weaver or MIL-STD-1913 rail.
Pros
- Long battery life
- Easy-to-access buttons
- Fog proof
- Wide field of view
Cons
- Heavy
- Not compatible with night vision
- It’s bigger than most holographic sights
What Customers Say
“Absolutely IN LOVE with this sight!!! Finally able to put some serious value into my AR15 with a quality sight that used by tactical professionals all over the US. This sight is highly recommended and you WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED!!!”
EOTECH EXPS3 Holographic Weapon Sight
| Factor | EOTECH EXPS3 | Category Average |
| Optics | 5 | 4.425 |
| Build Quality | 4.6 | 4.15 |
| Battery | 1.5 | 2.49 |
| Ergonomics | 1.7 | 2.14 |
| Value | 2.2 | 2.34 |
| Illumination | 5 | 4.05 |
Quick Specs:
- Reticle: 1 MOA
- Weight: 11.2 oz
- Length: 3.8 inches
- Battery life: 1,000 hours
The EXPS3 is almost similar to the EXPS2 except that it’s compatible with Gen 1 to 3-night vision devices. It’s also more water-submersible up to 33 feet.
The EXPS3 comes with three reticle patterns. You can choose from its one dot reticle (EXPS3-0), its two-dot reticle (EXPS3-2), or its four-dot reticle (EXPS3-4). Its reticle has one large 68 MOA outer ring and a number of MOA red dots that depend on the reticle pattern. The EXPS3-4 is more precise and is perfect for shooting at long distances.
Like our best overall pick, the EXPS3 also features a quick-release lever so you can install and remove it quickly and easily. It’s also taller than the EXSP2 because its base is raised by 7mm, giving you room for lower iron sight co-witnessing.
Pros
- Comes with a 10-year limited warranty
- Two eyes open shooting
- Night-vision compatible
- Ideal for use with a G33 Magnifier
Cons
- Heavy
- Expensive
What Customers Say
“I’ve been impressed with the sight so far. (My) only concern would be the battery compartment is plastic, but for its credit, it’s not chintzy ABS. Sight picture projection is extremely bright even on medium settings compared to the other LED red dots I own. I had to tighten up the quick release bolt to have a snug fit on m rail, but otherwise installed without issue.”
EOTECH XPS2 Holographic Weapon Sight
| Factor | EOTECH XPS2 | Category Average |
| Optics | 5 | 4.425 |
| Build Quality | 4.5 | 4.15 |
| Battery | 1.5 | 2.49 |
| Ergonomics | 1.7 | 2.14 |
| Value | 2.1 | 2.34 |
| Illumination | 4.6 | 4.05 |
Quick Specs:
- Reticle: 1 MOA
- Weight: 11.2 oz
- Length: 3.8 inches
- Battery life: 1,000 hours
We recommend EOTech’s XSP2 if you want a reliable but compact holographic sight. It’s also the shortest holographic weapon sight that EOTech has manufactured.
The XSP2 ensures the same optical quality and durability as every EOTech product. Like the 512, the XSP2 also has 20 brightness settings, but it only has 1,000 hours of battery life.
This compact optic is powered by a single CR123 lithium battery, leaving plenty of room for a magnifier or an iron sight. It also features an integral mount that can be attached to a 1” Weaver or MIL-STD-1913 rail.
Pros
- Compact
- Wide field of view
- Multiple brightness settings
- Multiple mounting options
Cons
- Not compatible with night vision
- Shortest battery life among our picks
- Heavy
What Customers Say
“I like it. Co-witness with the iron sights on an AR-15 and X95 perfectly. Rugged, reliable, and a great field of view. I would dare to say the sight picture and target acquisition is better than an Aimpoint. The battery life however is not. I know these are not the “cool guy” sights anymore but they are worth the money.”
EOTECH 552 Holographic Weapon Sight
| Factor | EOTECH 552 | Category Average |
| Optics | 4.3 | 4.425 |
| Build Quality | 4 | 4.15 |
| Battery | 3.1 | 2.49 |
| Ergonomics | 1.6 | 2.14 |
| Value | 2.4 | 2.34 |
| Illumination | 4.2 | 4.05 |
Quick Specs:
- Reticle: 1 MOA
- Weight: 11.5 oz
- Length: 5.6 inches
- Battery life: 2,500 hours
If you were impressed with the 512’s qualities but were disappointed that it didn’t have night vision, the EOTech 552 Holographic Weapon Sight is the solution to your dilemma!
The 552 has 20 daylight settings plus 10-night vision settings that work with Gen 1 to 3-night vision devices. It also features a 68 MOA ring & 1 MOA dot reticle. Like all EOTech optics, the 552 offers a generous field of view and reliable toughness that’s battle-tested.
One downside is that it only has 1,000 hours of power from 2 AA batteries.
Pros
- Night-vision compatible
- Comes with a 10-year limited warranty
- Plenty of illumination settings
- Generous field of view
Cons
- Shortest battery life among our picks
What Customers Say
“This device takes practice to use but after that it is great. Very accurate. Durable. No real cons to this sight other than it does take some time to get used to. This sight is mounted on an ar15 with a front sight post. The problem was two fold shooting with both eyes open and not focusing on the front sight. The sight is acurate and allow for very quick target acquisition.”
HOLOSUN HS510C
| Factor | HOLOSUN HS510C | Category Average |
| Optics | 4.5 | 4.425 |
| Build Quality | 4 | 4.15 |
| Battery | 5 | 2.49 |
| Ergonomics | 3.4 | 2.14 |
| Value | 3.4 | 2.34 |
| Illumination | 4.2 | 4.05 |
Quick Specs:
- Reticle: 2 MOA, 65 MOA
- Weight: 4.94 oz
- Length: 3.3 inches
- Battery life: 50,000 hours
The Holosun 510C Holographic Sight is another durable option under $400. It’s a reflex sight with a user-friendly reticle that’s common in holographic sights.
We love the 510C’s Advanced Super Solar Technology. This feature serves as a backup for when its battery runs out of power, not that 50,000 hours of battery life isn’t enough, though.
The Holosun 510C allows the user to switch between three reticle patterns with a quick push of a button. You can choose between a 65 MOA circle with 2 MOA dots, a 2 MOA dot, or a 65 MOA ring.
The Holosun 510C features multi-coated optics that are specially designed for rifles. It’s also equipped with a shock-resistant hood for protection against debris or any external impacts.
Pros
- Unlimited field of view
- Longest battery life among our picks
- Affordable
- Shock-resistant
- Multiple reticle options
- Compact and lightweight
Cons
- Mounting lock lever springs are a little flimsy
What Customers Say
“Came with an extra battery holder, tools and three batteries. Put it on in two seconds flat. Super simple controls and adjustments. I flipped up my iron sites and with a few clicks with the included tool I set the co-witness recticle to the front site before even going out. Dead on first shot. 800 rounds later and still on target. Very impressed with the shake-awake feature and the auto brightness function. Only downfall with the auto brightness function is if you are in the shade and the target is in bright sun, the recticle dims to where you are. (under a roof at the open range.) Just switch to manual and you will be fine. Overall I give it 9.5 out of 10. I am going to get a HOLOSUN for my 45 pistol next.”
FAQs
Which is better, red dot or holographic sight?
Both optics are great, depending on your preferences. If you want optics that are tough as nails, or if you have astigmatism and you don’t want a red dot’s fuzziness, go with a holographic sight. Holographic sights also offer faster target acquisition than red dot sights. But if you want cheaper and lighter optics with long battery life, then go with a red dot sight.
Here’s a detailed video for you.
Which is better, reflex or holographic sight?
If you prefer more flexible reticles in terms of color, crosshair, or circular shapes, get a reflex sight. Although we’ve reviewed holographic sights above with versatile reticles, they’re not as adaptable.
Reflex sights also have longer battery life than HWS. But when it comes to target acquisition speed, holographic sights are king.
What’s the best holographic sight for an AR-15?
We recommend the EOTech 552 for the best holographic sight for an AR-15. Aside from being compatible with night vision devices, the 552 also offers maximum peripheral vision and superior accuracy at close distances.
Conclusion: Best Holographic Sight
Holographic sights are usually over-engineered so they can handle huge amounts of force and more extreme temperatures compared to red dots. They also offer faster target acquisition and provide a superior sighting experience than most red dots. That’s why most military and law enforcement personnel prefer them. Now that you’ve chosen your holographic sight, start practicing and experience how awesome it is to sight with it!
Last update on 2025-04-29 / Images from Amazon Product API