EOTech vs Aimpoint: Which Is Better? — Full Comparison Guide

EOTech and Aimpoint are titans when it comes to producing professional-quality weapon optics.

My experience with both was such a close call that I can imagine if you are in a dilemma of which is better.

I’m here to solve that dilemma for you.

If you want to find out who comes out victorious in this EOTech vs. Aimpoint optics duel, read on!

EOTech Optics

EOTech is an American company that produces and markets professional-grade holographic sights.

These holographic sights have also built the company’s reputation for quality over quantity.

They ensure that their products are always of the HIGHEST specifications.

Furthermore, EOTech sights are trusted by leading professionals the world over because of the speed, accuracy, and reliability they provide.

This positions them as one of the top-tier producers of weapon optics!

I’ve used their sights and found them perfect for indoor, close-quarter conditions.

Aimpoint Sights

Aimpoint is a Swedish company that originated red dot sighting technology.

They’re a leader in the red dot industry that works with experienced hunters and professionals around the world to continuously improve their technology.

Their original red dot sights were designed for hunters and sports shooters.

After seeing how red dot sights could greatly contribute to field operations, law enforcers and the military also started using Aimpoint optics!

I’ve found them to be excellent on the range and in the field, allowing me to shift from target to target quickly with NO FUSS.

EOTech 512 vs. Aimpoint PRO: Which Is Right for Your Rifle?

To kick off this EOTech vs. Aimpoint debate, I’ll be comparing two of their best optic models.

What makes them great is not only their FUNCTIONALITY but also their PRICE.

Both of these optical attachments will give you the best bang for your buck! I guarantee it!

EOTech 512 Holographic CQB Weapon Sight

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The EOTech 512 is one of the most popular holographic sights in EOTech’s lineup.

It’s an operator-grade Holographic Weapon Sight (HWS) designed for close-quarter situations involving fast-moving targets.

The 512 is one of my TOP choices when I need something durable and reliable and offers FASTER target acquisition. 

The downside I saw with this holographic sight is it lacks night vision compatibility and only includes a basic reticle option.

The inclusion of these two would’ve given the sight a lot more versatility, in my opinion.

Specifications:

• L x W x H: 5.6″ x 2.0″ x 2.5″ (142.2 x 50.8 x 63.5 mm.)
• Weight: 11.5 oz. (326 g.)
• Water Resistance: 10 ft. (3 m.) depth
• Mount: 1″ Weaver or MIL-STD-1913 rail
• Windage & Elevation Adjustment: 0.5 MOA per click
• Brightness: 20 daylight settings
• Power Source: 2 x 1.5 V AA batteries (Supports lithium, alkaline, or rechargeable)
• Battery Life (Continuous hours at nominal setting 12 and room temperature): Lithium – 2,500 hours; Alkaline – 2,200 hours
• Lens Cover: None

Build

Being compact and lightweight, having the EOTech 512 holographic sight mounted doesn’t compromise the ease of handling your weapon.

Its operator-grade build also gives you some solace in the fact that it’s a durable optic.

The fact that it’s a waterproof optic even makes it practical for tactical situations!

I’ve used it in the rain, mud, snow, and sand, and it worked every time.

Settings

Thanks to its adjustable brightness settings and windage and elevation refinement options, this holographic sight can fit in various types of engagements!

Battery Life

Having AA batteries as a power source makes my life with this HWS a lot easier and hassle-free.

Not only are they easily available, but the battery life of the EOTech 512 can easily last you for more than 2,000 hours!

Reticle

I find the holographic reticle option pretty basic.

You get the most popular EOTech reticle, and it has 3 aiming points, but I have to establish the ranges for them depending on which loads and calibers they use.

In my experience, that shouldn’t be too difficult. Calibration is quite easy with EOTech.

Aimpoint PRO Patrol Rifle Optic Red Dot Riflescope

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The Aimpoint PRO (Patrol Rifle Optic) is one of Aimpoint’s signature red dot scopes used in different situations encountered by law enforcers.

It allows for fast target acquisition, enduring any physical abuse with its sturdy build, and ease of use in emergencies.

If you want a reliable red dot, the Aimpoint PRO is one of the best! I’ve found that it meets most of my tactical, range, and home defense needs.

Specifications:

• L x W x H: 5.2″ x 2.8″ x 3.2″ (131 x 72 x 81 mm.)
• Weight: 330 g. (330 g.)
• Water Resistance: 150 ft. (45 m.) depth
• Mount: QRP2 Mount, Base & Top Ring, and Standard Spacer
• Brightness: 4-night vision compatible settings and 6 daylight settings
• Power Source:  DL1/3N, 3V, Lithium battery
• Battery Life (Continuous hours at daylight setting of 15,000 Lux and room temperature): 30,000 hours
• Lens Covers: Black front flip cover and transparent rear flip cover

Build

In terms of build, the Aimpoint PRO is built to LAST.

Its high-strength aluminum housing ensures that it can endure any possible damage!

It’s also submersible for up to 150 ft. and night-vision compatible making it a great choice for tactical engagements!

I found it visible through night vision scopes and flashlights.

Settings

Adjusting this optic to your preferred brightness isn’t an issue either.

It has 4 night vision settings and 6 daylight settings, making shooting in different lighting situations a breeze!

Battery Life

If you’re worried about your red dot sights losing power in the midst of any engagement, the Aimpoint PRO will address that.

A single battery in this optical attachment could last for up to 30,000 hours of continuous use!

Fun Battery Feature: The Aimpoint PRO features an in-service date and battery change date reminder making inventory tracking and maintenance easy!

Reticle

The Aimpoint PRO only comes with one reticle option, a 2-MOA red dot. It’s pretty basic, but that doesn’t stop it from making target acquisition quicker.

In fact, I’ve found this NO-NONSENSE design to be perfect when engaging multiple targets in rapid succession.

EOTech 512 vs Aimpoint PRO Comparison Review

In comparing these two sights, I’ve decided on the winner based on four basic criteria: their build, settings, battery life, and reticle.

Winner for Build: Aimpoint PRO

In this duel between Aimpoint vs. EOTech sights, I saw that both optics were compact, lightweight, and sturdily built.

However, Aimpoint PRO wins and edges out on top in terms of the build because of its water resistance and being able to withstand lower depths!

Winner for Settings: It Depends

Choosing between the two optics based on settings will be highly situational. The EOTech 512 has a wider range of daylight settings.

The Aimpoint PRO has fewer settings for daylight, but what tips the scales in its favor is its night-vision-friendly capabilities.

If you’re going to be doing most of your shooting when the sun is up, I recommend picking up the EOTech 512.

If you need an optical attachment for nighttime situations, I’d say get the Aimpoint PRO.

Winner for Battery Life: It Depends

In this case, I recommend you choose whatever floats your boat. Both optical attachments support lithium batteries, but they have key differences.

The EOTech battery life may be shorter, but its power source is AA batteries — different types, in fact!

In terms of an accessible power source, the EOTech 512 takes the cake!

The Aimpoint PRO, on the other hand, has much LONGER battery life. Its battery also isn’t something you can purchase anywhere, though.

What it has going for it is its handy feature that reminds you of its in-service date and battery change date!

Winner for Reticle: EOTech 512

Both the EOTech and Aimpoint sights include basic reticle choices. However, EOTech wins since its holographic reticle offers 3 aiming points!

I have more flexibility as I can establish the range of these aiming points myself, depending on the ammo I use.

Winner for Adjustments: Aimpoint Pro

Fortunately for me, both optics have easy-to-use adjustment knobs.

The Aimpoint Pro has the elevation and windage knobs on the top and right side, respectively, which is similar to rifle scopes.

I personally preferred this setup as it is what I am used to with rifle scopes.

Meanwhile, EOTech as both knobs on the right hand side. I would say it can get confusing to know which knob is which, especially for beginners.

Winner for Magnification: EOTech 512

The Aimpoint Pro comes with a 2 MOA reticle, while EOTech’s 512 (and all EOTech sights) comes at 1 MOA.

The presence of a magnifier makes all the difference here. Let me explain.

If you add a 3x magnifier to an Aimpoint PRO, your 2 MOA reticle becomes 6 MOA.

EOTEch’s 1 MOA reticle stays at 1 MOA despite the addition of the 3x magnifier, which is more ideal for long ranges.

My Overall Winner: It Depends

Anticlimactic, right?

What I’ve noticed during this review was that both Aimpoint and EOTech have their upsides and downsides, especially with these two sights.

So, at the end of the day, choosing becomes situational and a matter of preference.

Just choose wisely! I recommend finding a way to test both at an outdoor range before buying.

What to Look for When Deciding What Red Dot Sights to Buy

I’ve reviewed one sight for each company in our Aimpoint vs. EOTech comparison.

By now, you also probably have an idea of the four basic criteria (build, settings, battery life, and reticle).

What I’ll be covering next is what else you should consider when choosing your next weapon sight.

What Weapon Will You Be Using?

Different sights may not be as effective for certain weapons.

Will you need them for shotguns, submachine guns, rifles, or sidearms? Answer this question first before buying your next sight.

FUN FACT: The first two optic attachments we just covered can be used for multiple weapons!

What Shooting Situations Will You Be In?

Will you need your sight for close-range, mid-range, or short-range engagements?

Depending on that, you might want a sight with optical magnification!

Will you be using your sight in bright or dark lighting environments?

If you are in situations with minimal or no lighting, night vision devices are more appropriate!

EOTech EXPS3 vs. Aimpoint T2: Which One Comes Out on Top?

Here’s a short bonus review to add to this EOTech vs. Aimpoint debate. This time, I’ll be comparing two red dots!

EOTech EXPS3 Circle Red Dot Sight

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The EOTech EXPS3 is a compact and lightweight red dot sight that works with iron sights and night vision.

You even get three reticle options with multiple aiming points!

This optic provides ultimate clarity thanks to the holographic film EOTech uses.

One thing this optic did for me was give me the confidence to go outdoors with no worry about it breaking! It’s durability speaks for itself!

30 total adjustable brightness settings (20 daylight, 10 night vision) give you lots of room to work in different lighting environments too!

The only downside is its short battery life (1,000 hours). Still, I’ve found it easy to switch out batteries, even in the field.

To sum it up, though, the EOTech EXPS3 provides you unbridled flexibility in enhancing your shot accuracy!

Aimpoint T2 Red Dot Reflex Sight

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The Aimpoint Micro T2 is a 2-MOA red dot for users requiring a lightweight and compact red dot.

Despite its lightweight, it’s sturdy aluminum alloy body makes it built like a diamond!

With its 13 total adjustable brightness settings and water resistance of up to 25 meters, it’s ideal for different weapons and environmental conditions!

What impressed me the most is it’s one of the available red dots with the LONGEST battery life! 

Being able to last for up to 50,000 hours of continuous use, I know the Aimpoint Micro T2 red dot won’t fail me!

My Winner: The EOTech EXPS3

The decision was fairly easy.

EOTech wins this Aimpoint vs EOTech duel easily because of the unmatched flexibility the EXPS3 provides.

Its battery doesn’t last as long and is a noticeable difference, but you can just replace it.

Properly maintaining your EXPS3’s battery means you’ll have an optic you can rely on in COUNTLESS situations!

Frequently Asked Questions

In case you have any leftover questions, I’ll answer them here.

Which EOTech Does the Military Use?

In the U.S. Military, they make use of the EOTech 553 holographic sights.

In military service, it’s placed under the designation SU-231/PEQ. It’s known as the M553 in the commercial market.

The U.S. Military is also starting to make use of the newer model, the EOTech EXPS3 or XPS3.

In their service, this specific optic is designated as the SU-231A/PEQ.

Does the Military Use Aimpoint?

Yes, they do. In fact, it’s also used by law enforcement!

Aimpoint sights are so reliable that they’re used by professionals around the world who work in those fields.

Aimpoint Fact: Aimpont has provided over 2 million sights to the United States military since 1997!

Do Navy SEALs Use EOTech or Aimpoint?

The Navy SEALs actually use both. EOTech and Aimpoint are actually some of the optics that Navy SEALs are commonly photographed with!

On a side note, though, it’s also normal to see Navy SEALs use many variations of optics.

If you’re wondering why, it’s because they like customizing their weapons according to their preferences.

NOTE: If you’re struggling to choose a sight of your own, I’d recommend looking at Navy SEAL rifle load-outs for inspiration to see which sights work in the real world.

Do Police Use EOTech?

Yes! Police are some of the people EOTech provides with high-grade weapon accessories and services.

EOTech Fact: EOTech actually introduced their military and law enforcement HWS models in 2001. They received the 2001 Shooting Industry Academy of Excellence Optic of the Year Award for it!

Does EOTech Have a Military Discount?

Yes, they do! They call it an industry discount instead of a military discount, though.

They offer it through their Pro-Sales Program.

To avail of it, the first thing you have to do is register and create a customer account. After that, you need to complete an application form.

You’ll only get discounted pricing once your application is APPROVED and notified via email.

The discount will be applied automatically during checkout as long as you log in with your approved account.

Does Aimpoint Have Military Discount?

Aimpoint also has a discount, but their discount isn’t only for the military. They also include law enforcement in their discount program!

They provide it for both active and retired men and women in those fields. 

Similarly, you need to create an account, but your credentials need to be VERIFIED first.

Additionally, the selection of products where the discount can be applied is limited.

If you qualify, you can only purchase up to two (2) optics per calendar year. You cannot resell what you bought through this program.

Conclusion

I understand the struggle, especially if the two brands in question are TOP-TIER and some of the best in the business.

Both EOTech sights and Aimpoint scopes have their upsides and downsides.

But if I were to make a decision, I would stick with Aimpoint for its longer battery life and night-vision capabilities.

In the end, choosing becomes a matter of personal preference and situational usage.

I hope my EOTech vs Aimpoint guide has helped you make the right choice for your needs!