by Richard Douglas @ ScopesField.com (Updated August 22, 2022)
What’s the difference between Aimpoint vs EOTech?
I wanted to find out, so I bought both red dot sights and hand-tested everything:
- Reticle
- Durability
- Battery life
- Field of view
- And so much more
By the end of this Aimpoint vs EOTech comparison review, you’ll know which red dot is best for you.
Let’s get started!
Quick Comparison Table
| Features | Aimpoint | EOTech |
|---|---|---|
| Reticle Type | Single 2,4, or 6 MOA red dot | 1 MOA red dot center with 68 MOA circle |
| Illuminated? | Yes | Yes |
| Battery life | 30,000-80,000 hours | 600-2,500 hours |
| Eye Relief | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Magnification | 1x | 1x |
| Parallax setting | Parallax-free | Parallax-free |
| Weight | 3-12 ounces, depending on model | 8-12 ounces, depending on model |
| MOA adjustment | 0.5 MOA | 0.5 MOA |
Aimpoint vs EOTech Review
Aimpoint and EOTech are two big-name competitors in the world of red dot optics.
In fact, the military and law enforcement often use them because they’re close to indestructible.
Both Aimpoint and EOTech are similar in many ways, but a few key features in each optic make one stand out from the other.
Having owned and tested multiple EOTechs and Aimpoints, I know their strengths and weaknesses. So if you’re wondering which one fits you best, you’ve come to the right place!
Ready to find your answer? Let’s dive in!
GLASS CLARITY & RETICLE
Aimpoint and EOTech feature high-quality glass and a clear sight picture.
Both optics come with scratch-resistant, anti-reflective coatings for protection and glare reduction.
The significant difference between the two sights is the reticle.
EOTECH offers many types of reticle patterns compared to Aimpoint’s single red dot.
Typically, EOTECH sights come with a 1 MOA dot surrounded by a 68 MOA circle, allowing you to pick up and lock on a target quickly.
With its latest EXPS models, you can also get a BDC reticle— which is something you can’t do with an Aimpoint PRO.
On the other hand…
Aimpoint sights come in either 2, 4, or 6 MOA reticles. Also, many shooters prefer the simplicity of the single red dot.
The Aimpoint sights have night vision compatibility because the dot’s illumination works great with night vision devices.
As for night vision settings, you’ll find that the battery lasts longer thanks to the night-vision friendly brightness.
Here’s one thing to keep in mind:
Although an Aimpoint PRO red dot sight takes minimal training to use, it’s limited in precision and range. Shooting past 200 yards with a 2 MOA can be challenging— depending on your skill, of course.
EOTech’s smaller dot works better for precision shots at longer distances. Plus, their best holographic sights are a better option if you have astigmatism.
All in all, I see them as two different tools for two different situations.
If I were to face an intruder (or a zombie apocalypse), I’d want an AimPoint PRO for self-defense. On the other hand, if I’m in combat or shooting longer ranges, I’d prefer an EOTech.
Since Aimpoint and EOTech have superb glass clarity, this category boils down to reticle preference.
Round 1 (Glass Clarity and Reticle): Tie
BATTERY LIFE
Between EOTech vs Aimpoint, Aimpoint hits the jackpot in this category.
Their optics have way more battery life compared to EOTECH. But, it can vary anywhere between the different models.
For example, when we take the Aimpoint Pro. Vs. the Aimpoint Comp M4, the former is rated 30,000 hours while the latter is 80,000 hours.
And no, I didn’t add too many zeros.
EOTechs have respectable battery lives, but you’ll need replacements much quicker. They run an average of 600 to 2,500 hours at best.
Some might argue that EOTechs have an auto turn-off feature, whereas Aimpoints don’t.
Also, the latter uses a harder-to-find 1/3N lithium battery, while the former uses common AAs or CR123 batteries.
Aimpoint’s red dots still have the upper hand because they last for years. So you can always keep it on, and you won’t have to replace the battery constantly.
Plus:
I can’t shake off the thought of my sight going dark just when my life depends on it.
In a survival scenario, battery is my number one concern— unless we’re talking about ACOGs.
But for today’s comparison…
Round 2 (Battery Life) Winner: Aimpoint
EYE RELIEF & EYE BOX
Both optics have unlimited eye relief, as with all red dot sights.
However…
The objective window on the EoTech is significantly larger compared to the Aimpoint PRO features.
Thanks to the enlarged field of view, you can comfortably shoot with both eyes open— which means faster speed-to-target acquisition and better situational awareness.
Additionally, if the sight window gets partially shattered or obscured, EOTech’s sights continue to function.
Round 3 (Eye Relief and Eye box) Winner: EOTech
DURABILITY & WEIGHT
Both Aimpoints and EoTechs are designed to survive the most grueling shooting applications.
But, let’s take a closer look in the debate of EOTech vs Aimpoint…
EOTech sights are advertised as shockproof, but Aimpoints are subjected to brutal testing at different levels of shock and vibration.
Aimpoint PRO optics are also resistant to chemicals like hydraulic oil, lubricant, cleaning solvents, and even diesel fuel.
Both are submersible, BUT Aimpoint sights are rated at 135 feet, while EOTech is rated at 10 feet.
So, you could go scuba diving with an Aimpoint, and it would still be functional!
EOTech sights have a reputation for responding poorly when exposed to extreme temperatures. However, it’s worth noting they’ve improved on that with their recent models.
Aimpoints have a smaller footprint and weigh an average of 3-4 ounces less than EOTech.
In fact:
When mounting the sight on a pistol, the Aimpoint T1 is my go-to recommendation.
Any shooter knows ounces start to add up quickly— especially when you’re adding more accessories to your rifle.
That’s why I say…
Round 4 (Durability and Weight) Winner: Aimpoint
WINDAGE, ELEVATION & BRIGHTNESS KNOB
First of all, I appreciate that both Aimpoint and EOTech designed easy-to-use adjustments.
They come with precise 0.5 MOA clicks but slightly different adjustment locations.
For Aimpoint PRO models, the elevation adjustment is located on top of the sight, while the windage adjustment screw is located on the right side.
For EOTech models, both elevation and windage adjustments are located on the right-hand side of the sight.
I did find it a bit easier to operate the Aimpoint’s brightness knob.
You twist the rotary dial clockwise to make the red dot brighter and twist it the other way to dim the dot (or turn it off).
EOTech sights use the same two buttons to turn the optic on and off and make brightness adjustments.
Depending on the model, the buttons may be located on the side or the rear of the optic.
In case you didn’t know:
If you turn it on using the down button, the sight will automatically turn off after 4 hours. If turned on using the up button, it’ll shut off after 8 hours.
On the bright side:
Both optics are easy to zero and can be sighted in without shooting.
I’ve zeroed both models at 25 yards and got an accurate aim point out to 300 yards.
If you’re having trouble zeroing an EOTech, check out this helpful tutorial!
Round 5 (Adjustment Knobs) Winner: Aimpoint
MAGNIFICATION AND PARALLAX
Both Aimpoints and EOTechs offer no optical magnification, so no question there.
All sights experience varying degrees of parallax, depending on use and operating conditions. However, wIth Aimpoint and EOTech sights, the effect is negligible.
The main difference between these two sights lies in adding a magnifier.
How?
Aimpoint scopes have a minimum of 2 MOA reticles, while all EOTech optics have a 1 MOA center dot.
If you magnify Aimpoint’s 2 MOA red dot sight with 3X magnification, it becomes 6 MOA.
With the EOTech reticle, the reticle remains at 1 MOA even when magnification is added.
Round 6 (Magnification and Parallax) Winner: EOTech
MOUNTING
Aimpoint and EOTECH models offer versatile mounting systems.
Both sights can be mounted on any 1″ Weaver and MIL-STD 1913 Rails and have options for absolute co-witness, lower co-witness, and quick detach.
You can also get magnifiers from EOTech and Aimpoint to extend your viewing range.
But, hear this…
Aimpoint models can be mounted using a 30mm ring, making it easier to set up on rifles.
Plus:
Many Aimpoint optics include front and rear flip-up lens covers.
Thanks to the rear cover’s transparent design, you can still shoot with both eyes open and lens caps closed. I find this super helpful in an emergency.
Round 7 (Mounting) Winner: Aimpoint
PRICE
With EOTech vs Aimpoint, the former is usually less expensive.
Aimpoints typically cost anywhere from $600-$1000, while EOTechs range from $500-$800.
In fact:
The well-known Aimpoint PRO used to cost way less. At one point, the company released a new entry-level red dot— the Aimpoint ACO.
The PRO’s price was then increased, which would’ve been fine if Aimpoint added enhancements or more features.
Budget is an essential category to a lot of people, therefore…
Round 8 (Price) Winner: EOTech
EOTech vs Aimpoint: Which Red Dot is Better?
The Aimpoint vs. EOTech debate doesn’t seem to end. But for today, our winner is Aimpoint.
Here’s why…
- Simple reticle
- Compatible with night vision
- Lighter weight
- Better durability
- Smaller footprint
- Longer battery
- Always “on” capability
The good news is:
You can still buy one or the other and get impressive performance, clear sight picture, and proven reliability.
That said, if I had to recommend one Aimpoint optic, then go for the Aimpoint PRO. It’s accurate, durable, and versatile for any platform or shooting application.
FAQ:
Is EOTech better than a red dot?
EOTechs are holographic sights as opposed to Aimpoints, which are traditional reflex sights. Therefore, they both use different technology. Red dot sights emit an LED beam towards the coated front glass, wherein holo sights use laser technology.
The main advantage of a holographic sight is that it delivers faster target acquisition. Plus, the reticle options and smaller dots work well for hunting and tactical applications. But unfortunately, the biggest downfall for holographic sights is the limited battery life and heavier weight.
Red dot sights’ simplicity and battery life win by a mile in self-defense needs. However, a traditional red dot’s reticle tends to get blurry or fuzzy around the edges the further you look downrange.
Do Navy Seals use EOTech or Aimpoint?
Many of the military’s special forces— including Navy SEALs— use both EOTech and Aimpoint optics. Based on research, they use preferred models such as the Aimpoint Comp M2/M4s and EOTech’s 553 Holographic Sight. They also use other companies like Trijicon as well.
Are holographic sights better for astigmatism?
Holo sights are known to be better options for shooters with astigmatism. I’m not an eye doctor, but here’s a quick explanation:
Astigmatism is caused by an irregular curvature of the eye’s cornea or lens, which results in light rays not being refracted (bent) properly. Holo sights utilize a laser emitter to illuminate the reticle, which decreases the amount of light exposure— unlike reflex sights.
If that’s your case, I recommend checking out my list of the best red dot sights for astigmatism.
How long do Aimpoint batteries last?
Aimpoints are known for their ridiculously long battery life. These red dot sights can last anywhere between 5-10 years, even with continuous use. Pretty good deal for me!
