Best Night Vision Binoculars: Expert Overview

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Do you want to see in 100% darkness? Buying the best night vision binoculars will allow you to fulfill your childhood dream of having a superpower and explore the sky, caves, and wildlife. The device is an indispensable assistant for hunters and farmers. Modern models also allow you to record high-quality photos and videos. You can open a new reality for your children using technology and develop an interest in nature. There are many use cases like the models on the market. We have selected for you the best in 2022.

Product
Best Overall
GTHUNDER Digital Night Vision Goggles Binoculars for Total Darkness—4K Infrared Digital Night Vision, 32GB Memory Card for Photo and Video
Best for Video Recording
HEXEUM Night Vision Goggles Night Vision Binoculars for Adults - Digital Infrared Binoculars can Save Photo and Video with 32GB Memory Card
Best by Rating and Price
Adorrgon 12x42 HD Binoculars for Adults High Powered with Phone Adapter, Tripod and Tripod Adapter - Large View Binoculars with Clear Low Light Vision - Binoculars for Bird Watching Cruise Travel
Title
GTHUNDER Digital Night Vision Goggles Binoculars for Total Darkness—4K Infrared Digital Night Vision, 32GB Memory Card for Photo and Video
HEXEUM Night Vision Goggles Night Vision Binoculars for Adults - Digital Infrared Binoculars can Save Photo and Video with 32GB Memory Card
Adorrgon 12x42 HD Binoculars for Adults High Powered with Phone Adapter, Tripod and Tripod Adapter - Large View Binoculars with Clear Low Light Vision - Binoculars for Bird Watching Cruise Travel
Prime
-
Pros
7 levels of IR intensity adjustment
Long runtime (up to 17 hours)
Field of view: 367ft/1000yds
Best Overall
Product
GTHUNDER Digital Night Vision Goggles Binoculars for Total Darkness—4K Infrared Digital Night Vision, 32GB Memory Card for Photo and Video
Title
GTHUNDER Digital Night Vision Goggles Binoculars for Total Darkness—4K Infrared Digital Night Vision, 32GB Memory Card for Photo and Video
Prime
Pros
7 levels of IR intensity adjustment
My review
Best for Video Recording
Product
HEXEUM Night Vision Goggles Night Vision Binoculars for Adults - Digital Infrared Binoculars can Save Photo and Video with 32GB Memory Card
Title
HEXEUM Night Vision Goggles Night Vision Binoculars for Adults - Digital Infrared Binoculars can Save Photo and Video with 32GB Memory Card
Prime
-
Pros
Long runtime (up to 17 hours)
My review
Best by Rating and Price
Product
Adorrgon 12x42 HD Binoculars for Adults High Powered with Phone Adapter, Tripod and Tripod Adapter - Large View Binoculars with Clear Low Light Vision - Binoculars for Bird Watching Cruise Travel
Title
Adorrgon 12x42 HD Binoculars for Adults High Powered with Phone Adapter, Tripod and Tripod Adapter - Large View Binoculars with Clear Low Light Vision - Binoculars for Bird Watching Cruise Travel
Prime
Pros
Field of view: 367ft/1000yds
My review
How to Select Ideal Binoculars
  1. Decide on the purpose of using this function.
  2. Determine the features you need and check their availability in a specific model.
  3. Pay attention to the model’s main characteristics: generation, detection range, resolution, magnification, weight, the ability to
  4. Record video, and runtime.
  5. Read the reviews and consider all the pros and cons.

Contents

Top 9 Best Night Vision Binoculars in 2022

  1. GTHUNDER Digital Night Vision Goggles— Best Overall
  2. HEXEUM Night Vision Goggles — Best for Video Recording
  3. Binoculars Adorrgon — Best by Rating and Price
  4. Occer Compact Binoculars — Best Price
  5. CREATIVE XP Night Vision Goggles
  6. HAPIMP Night Vision Goggles
  7. JStoon Night Vision Goggles
  8. UncleHu High Power Binoculars
  9. VABSCE Digital Binoculars

Next, I will detail the best binoculars with camera and night vision in 2022. The models in the list are in random order.

1. GTHUNDER Digital Night Vision Goggles: Best Digital Vision Binoculars

GTHUNDER Digital Night Vision Goggles Binoculars for Total Darkness—4K Infrared Digital Night Vision, 32GB Memory Card for Photo and Video
  • HD Night Vision Goggles used in complete darkness—This Owl Night Vision Binoculars is equipped with infrared illuminator, which allows you to view animals or other objects for hours without external light.

You can record high-quality videos and photos (1280*960P) in the dark, thanks to the 7-level IR illuminator and CMOS image sensor. This model has a durable rubber construction. You get high-quality binoculars, a camera, and a night vision device for one price. That is why the GTHUNDER goggles are considered the best night vision binoculars overall.

My father uses this model for hunting. The batteries last for several days. The device is equipped with an automatic shutdown function. It saves battery power when you’re not using your device, and you can turn this feature off or set it up to your liking. He also likes a good build and a simple menu. I was surprised at the quality of the pictures when I saw them. It is definitely amazing.

Why we like it: The best ratio of price and quality.

Characteristics

Weight: 2.55 pounds
Material: ABS plastic
Zoom: 3x optical or 4x digital
Viewing distances up to 984ft
Memory card: 32 GB (included)

PROS:
  • High-quality photo and video;
  • Durable construction;
  • 7 levels of IR intensity adjustment;
  • Long runtime.
CONS:
  • Not waterproof enough.

2. HEXEUM Night Vision Goggles: Best for Video Recording

HEXEUM Night Vision Goggles Night Vision Binoculars for Adults - Digital Infrared Binoculars can Save Photo and Video with 32GB Memory Card
  • Professional Full Optical Binocular System: Quality optical clarity, high-performance digital night vision binoculars with CMOS sensor achieve clear view up to 3X magnification. Perfect binoculars for outdoor activities, patrol detection, security and surveilla, search & rescue, camping, watching wildlife and scenery

This model is equipped with a sensitive CMOS sensor, guaranteeing high quality from edge to edge, without blackouts on the sides. High-quality optics that increase light transmission and reduce glare make it the best night vision binoculars for stargazing.

I read a lot of good reviews on the Internet about this model. My friend, who explores nature and the night sky and loves recording videos with binoculars, recommended this model. He uses it day and night and claims it’s also the best for slow-motion video recording. He also noted the outstanding optical clarity.

Why we like it: The ability to clearly see even the night sky. Focus and brightness adjustment functions. Rugged construction.

Characteristics

Weight: 2.56 pounds
Material: Plastic
Zoom: 4x digital
Viewing distances up to 1300ft
Memory card: 32 GB (included)

PROS:
  • High-quality photo and video;
  • CMOS sensor;
  • 7 levels of IR intensity adjustment;
  • Long runtime (up to 17 hours).
CONS:
  • It is heavy.

3.Binoculars Adorrgon: Best by Rating and Price

Sale
Adorrgon 12x42 HD Binoculars for Adults High Powered with Phone Adapter, Tripod and Tripod Adapter - Large View Binoculars with Clear Low Light Vision - Binoculars for Bird Watching Cruise Travel
  • 【Powerful 12x42 Binoculars, but Lightweight Enough, only 1.1 pounds】 Adorrgon 12x42mm binoculars deliver 367ft/1000yds large field of view. Capable of delivering a clear image from more than 650 feet away. Perfect for bird watching, hunting and sports events. 0.6 Pounds lighter than 10x50 full size binoculars.

The next option in the review has a high resolution and a wide field of view. It’s equipped with a universal phone adapter, allowing you to shoot videos and photos through binoculars. It is quite compact but provides good optics. In our opinion, it is the best budget night vision binoculars.

I bought this device out of interest and did not think it would be perfect for this price. But I was wrong. It turned out to be ideal for bird watching. It is very light, and my neck does not hurt from long use. The images are clear, and the optics are high quality.

Why we like it: There are no big differences with more expensive models, and this quality is minimal. It is the best rated night vision binoculars.

Characteristics

Weight: 1.1 pounds
Material: Rubber
Zoom: 12x
Field of view: 367ft/1000yds

PROS:
  • Light weight;
  • Good optics;
  • Waterproof;
  • Low price.
CONS:
  • Flimsy construction.

4. Occer Compact Binoculars: Best Night Vision Binoculars Under $100

Occer 12x25 Compact Binoculars for Adults and Kids, Large Eyepiece Waterproof Binocular with Low Light Vision,High Powered Easy Focus Binoculars for Bird Watching,Outdoor Hunting,Travel,Sightseeing
  • 【HIGH-POWERED LARGE EYEPIECE BINOCULARS】 This binoculars for adults has 12x magnification, 25mm objective lens and wide field of view, 273ft/1000yds, letting you look farther and see wider. Coating with FMC Broadband coating and premium BAK4 prism, it ensure imaging verisimilar.

The last model in my review has a small aperture but still offers excellent color reproduction and image sharpness. It is light and durable. This option is the best cheap night vision binoculars. However, it is still worth understanding that you get good quality for this money, but not quite a night vision device. It is most likely suitable for use at dusk.

My friend’s daughter usually sleeps at night because she is 8 years old. But she loves to watch the animals in the forest near the house in the evening. For such purposes, this device is ideal! This model guarantees sharp vision and a clear picture (but not at night).

Why we like it: Inexpensive but high-quality model for use at dusk.

Characteristics

Weight: 0.88 pounds
Material: ABS plastic, Rubber
Zoom: 12x
Field of view: 273ft/1000yds

PROS:
  • Low price;
  • Light weight;
  • Good picture quality;
  • Compact size.
CONS:
  • In complete darkness, you can’t see anything.

5.CREATIVE XP Night Vision Goggles: Best Build Quality

CREATIVE XP Pro Night Vision Binoculars - Digital Infrared, 4" Screen, 2X Zoom - Essential Deer Hunting Accessories, Tactical Gear, Security Goggles, Military Grade - 32GB Card, Neck Strap, Case
  • CLEAR NIGHT VISION - See in total darkness with our innovative night vision binoculars with infrared illuminator for high-quality visibility without ambient light.

This model was developed in the USA. It has excellent characteristics, allowing it to be used for hunting and wildlife observation and in the military sector. This is one of the best night vision binoculars under $300. The 850 NM infrared illuminator allows you to use the goggles in 100% darkness and outperforms other more expensive models by quality. You can record videos and photos directly to the device and later upload them to your computer. A distinctive characteristic is that video can be recorded with sound, which is impossible in many models of this price segment.

I bought such a device before a trip to the mountains. The parcel arrived just in time, and I went with it to observe the wildlife. I was surprised at the detail at 500 feet: the birds were as visible at night as I could see my friend from the tent. I was also pleased by the build quality; these binoculars look much more expensive. The manufacturer protected the buttons by covering them with a rubber casing on top so that they do not click when pressed. It is convenient for those who plan to use the device for hunting or watching wild animals.

Why I like it: Universal device of excellent quality. It has a solid design, is water-resistant, has a good screen resolution, and can record video with sound. Long runtime (more than 6 hours).

Characteristics

Weight: 2.86 pounds
Material: Plastic
Zoom: 3.5x optical or 7x digital
Viewing distances up to 1340 ft
Memory card: 32 GB (included)

PROS:
  • High-quality photo and video;
  • Video recording with sound;
  • Durable design;
  • Long runtime.
CONS:
  • You cannot decrease the brightness of the display.

6. HAPIMP Night Vision Goggles: Best for Kids

HAPIMP Night Vision Goggles, Night Vision Binoculars 1080P Viewing 984ft in 100% Darkness for Day and Night Vision Hunting, Wildlife Watching, Monitoring, with Flashlight, Card Reader and 32GB Card
  • Night Vision Goggles 1080P FHD: Compared to other 960P night vision binoculars, HAPIMP night vision can provide you with a 1920x1080P video experience, you can enjoy clearer, more detailed, authentic, and impressive content when you use them day and night

A clear and detailed image is achieved through IR light and high resolution 1920*1080P. You can record photos and videos directly to the device in real time. There is a focus function. These binoculars with night vision are versatile and suitable for children’s entertainment, search and rescue, or night fishing. A small minus is that it works on batteries without a rechargeable power supply.

I give my relatives binoculars for many holidays because once they try them somewhere in the forest, they also want to have mine. It happened to my nephew, and I chose this model for him as a Christmas present. Recently he went with these binoculars to the camp. The quality of the photos and videos he’s taken is superb! The setup is also easy. The weight of the device is ideal for use by a 12-year-old child.

Why we like it: This option is one of the best night vision binoculars under $200. It has excellent build quality; it is waterproof. Suitable for use in various fields. High resolution and modern features for little money.

Characteristics

Weight: 1.32 pounds
Material: ABS plastic
Zoom: 3x optical or 4x digital
Viewing distances up to 984 ft
Memory card: 32 GB (included)

PROS:
  • Light weight;
  • High-quality photo and video recording;
  • Easy setup.
CONS:
  • Poor button placement.

7. JStoon Night Vision Goggles: Beginner’s Choice

Night Vision Goggles Night Vision Binoculars - Digital Infrared Night Vision for Viewing in 100% Darkness-HD 36M Image & 4K Video from 400m/1312ft
  • Clearly See in 100% Darkness: While other night vision devices can not provide high-quality photos and videos without ambient light, drain your batteries within minutes or they are bulky and hard to control, the Compact Night Vision Binoculars feature a infrared illuminator which allows you to easily view animals in pitch dark without lights for 6 hours.

These night vision binoculars with a camera have a CMOS sensor, an 850 NM IR illuminator, and an intuitive menu. This device is ideal for beginners, offering excellent clarity and detail.

I advised my friend to buy this model: she was looking for a device for exploring caves and underground tunnels with her husband. She liked the high detail and bright image. For her, a vital function was the adjustment of IR lighting.

Why we like it: The main functions and convenient controls will suit different purposes, and you will not have to overpay for quality. It’s waterproof and works well in the rain.

Characteristics

Weight: 1.28 pounds
Material: ABS plastic
Zoom: 3x optical or 4x digital
Viewing distances up to 984ft
Memory card: 32 GB (included)

PROS:
  • Light weight;
  • CMOS sensor;
  • Long runtime (up to 11 hours);
  • Durable design.
CONS:
  • Poor image quality when using zoom.

8. UncleHu High Power Binoculars: Best Ergonomic Design

UncleHu 20x50 High Power Binoculars for Adults with Low Light Night Vision, Compact Waterproof Binoculars for Bird Watching Hunting Travel Football Games Stargazing with Carrying Case and Strap
  • 【Powerful Binoculars - 26mm Large Lens】26mm eye lens diameter and 50mm objective lens diameter, large field of view. 26mm eye lens collect more lights than others (e.g. 10x25, 12x25, 10x21 binoculars and ordinary 10x42, 12x42 binoculars), delivering clearer and brighter view. Perfect binoculars for adults bird watching, hunting, camping, hiking, sports and stargazing.

This model has an 18.5 mm thick prism that prevents light loss and dark areas around the edges — equipped with anti-reflective FMC green film. The build quality is excellent: comfortable grip and ergonomic design. It has a non-slip focusing wheel made of soft rubber. The model has protection against drops and fogging.

My colleague has been testing this model for a week, and she was pleased with the wide vision, true colors, and great detail. Scaling is easy; only the magnification is not 20x, but much less. The device is waterproof, but it is better not to use it for a long time in heavy rain.

Why we like it: The correct position of the optical components is achieved due to the all-metal construction inside the binoculars. Inexpensive binoculars of good quality.

Characteristics

Weight: 1.76 pounds
Material: Plastic, Metal
Zoom: 20x
Field of view: 287ft/1000yds

PROS:
  • Shockproof;
  • Waterproof;
  • Durable design;
  • Clear optics
CONS:
  • Zoom is not 20х as claimed by the manufacturer.

9.VABSCE Digital Binoculars: Best Binoculars for Long Distance and Night Vision

VABSCE Night Vision Goggles, True 4K Night Vision Binoculars, Built-in Powerful Focusable IR, 6'' Large Display, Long Viewing Range, Free 64GB Card to Save Photos and Videos (Black)
  • 【Clearly see in 100% Darkness】VABSCE night vision binoculars feature powerful focusable IR Illuminator and All-Optical Binoculars System allows you to see animals or plants clearly in darkness or dim ambient light. With 3 modes: taking photos, recording a video(does not record sound), and playback, you can capture high definition photos & videos with its outstanding optical clarity in the daytime, low light, or night time;

This model will provide a long viewing distance in total darkness, huge magnification, a large 4-inch viewing screen, and its brightness adjustment from 0 to 15. IR illumination without glow. It looks like a military-grade device.

I have a huge collection of goggles. And, as you already understood, I have something to tell you about this model. The material is very durable and will never crack. I take this model on the toughest trips, like Alaska. I think these goggles are also the best marine binoculars with night vision: they are waterproof and have an indestructible construction. The picture quality is impressive during the day and especially at night.

Why we like it: Amazing build and picture quality that rivals more expensive models.

Characteristics

Weight: 1.43 pounds
Material: ABS plastic
Zoom: 3.6-10.8x
Viewing distances up to 1640ft
Memory card: up to 128 GB (64 GB included)

PROS:
  • Light weight;
  • Durable design;
  • IR function works perfectly;
  • Long runtime.
CONS:
  • Zooming with a button is not very convenient.

How I decided

night vision binoculars in hand

My team and I have tested many models of goggles to compile a list of the best options for you. When compiling, we focused on positive and critical reviews on the Internet and impressions from using some models by our friends and relatives. The main selection criteria were good picture quality and a set of essential functions at an affordable price. All models in the review can be used for different purposes: night hunting, fishing, hiking in the mountains, watching wildlife, guarding your home, stargazing, and so on. These binoculars have a fairly long viewing distance, even in complete darkness. While they are more suited to civilian use, some are so great they’ll be suitable for the military sector.

What Are Night Vision Binoculars?

There are ordinary binoculars with which you can observe nature or hunt. Night vision binoculars allow you to see objects in complete darkness at great distances.

Types of binoculars for night visions

There are 2 main types of night vision. One type collects light from the environment and amplifies it, so you see a brighter picture (but not in 100% darkness).
Thermal devices display different amounts of radiated heat in bright colors or black and white. If you are a hunter, you should probably select the best thermal night vision binoculars. Binoculars and monoculars work similarly; the number of eyepieces differs. Goggles free your hands but don’t have a zoom.

All the night vision binoculars we’ve tested

  1. GTHUNDER Digital Night Vision Goggles
  2. HEXEUM Night Vision Goggles
  3. Binoculars Adorrgon
  4. Occer Compact Binoculars
  5. CREATIVE XP Night Vision Goggles
  6. HAPIMP Night Vision Goggles
  7. JStoon Night Vision Goggles
  8. UncleHu High Power Binoculars
  9. VABSCE Digital Binoculars

We selected these models based on a lot of reviews and our experience. They have excellent quality and a set of basic functions.

Buyer’s Guide

night vision binoculars on a stump

Choosing the right device can be challenging. You need to consider many characteristics while selecting the best. We hope our advice will save your time and help you decide.

Generations

There are 4 generations of night vision technology. The newer the generation, the more modern features it has.

Generation 1

The devices of this generation have low resolution and allow you to see up to 75 yards. The price is also low.

Generation 2

The gadgets of the 2nd generation have a much larger number of glass tubes that amplify the light. The visibility range is up to 200 meters.

Generation 3

The binoculars of the 3rd generation are used for search and rescue operations. The distance to the visible object reaches 300 meters. The high-quality image is achieved through the use of gallium arsenide.

Generation 4

Most technological goggles are designed mainly for tactical operations. The image is of the highest quality without any distortion. Accordingly, the cost is also high.

What are you going to view?

Observing the stars at night requires exceptional accuracy and high image quality. For bird watching at dusk, you can choose an inexpensive model. Some devices can record video and photos, while others do not, so pay attention to it if you want to fix the object. If you like stargazing and want one eye free, you should select the best monocular for long-range detection.

General night use

There are many options for using night vision devices. Let’s consider the main ones.

Wildlife viewing

You can observe birds or deer in pitch darkness from a long distance. This is the perfect device for traveling to the mountains or the forest! The fact that the animal does not know you are watching it allows you to see how it behaves in its natural habitat.

Stargazing

starry sky in the forest

Stargazing is another possibility that night vision gives you. To record photos and videos, choose a device with this function. The image quality must be as good as possible to observe the stars: clear, without distortion and darkening at the edges.

Security

For protection, you need goggles that really give a clear and sharp picture, have the function of recording photos and videos, and maybe even video with sound.

Hunting

For hunters, the ideal device offers a decent viewing range, doesn’t glow in the dark, frees their hands, and has good focus.

Night vision price

Goggles have different price points depending on the generation of night vision technology and feature set.

Up to $500

This price is inherent to most first-generation models with basic functions for home use.

$500-$1000

The first and second-generation devices have better image quality and a larger set of functions.

$1000-$5000

You’ll pay approximately the same price for second and third-generation technologies. Usually, civilians do not need this quality; a simpler device is enough for hunting and observing wildlife.

Over $5000

The gold standard of the fourth generation is expensive and offers exceptional quality. However, mainly representatives of government agencies use such devices.

Night vision features to look for

Make a list of requirements for yourself and select a device based on it.

Range of detection

If you require a longer range, look for models that offer distances up to 1000 yards.

Recording functionality

Not all devices have the function of recording video and photos. If you require it, check it out. Many models make it possible not only to fix objects but also to upload them to a computer.

Resolution

High resolution gives you a quality image. Pick the biggest one you can afford.

Night vision binoculars and pouch

Purpose

Decide on the future field of ​​use. You should not buy a device that is too expensive for entertainment and too cheap for serious work.

Infrared illuminators

The presence of an IR illuminator allows you to see a clear picture in 100% darkness.

How to choose night vision binoculars?

Pay attention to the following criteria when choosing.

1. Magnification

Binoculars, unlike night vision goggles, have a zoom function.

2. Angular field of view

The angle that is visible through the optics is measured in degrees. A larger angular field of view means you can observe a larger area.

3. Battery

Typically, binoculars and goggles use AA batteries. Some models can work longer by connecting an external power source (for example, a Power bank).

4. Weather-resistant

Most models can withstand exposure to moisture and light rain. If you are going to use the device in heavy rain or while fishing, it is better to select a waterproof model.

5. Weight

Choose lightweight models to avoid pain if you use a night vision device for a long time and wear it around your neck. Most options on the market are 1-3 pounds.

Best night vision brands

The best brands in the night vision market are ATN, GTHUNDER, Bushnell, Night Owl, X-Vision, and Barska.

Conclusion

There are many models on the market with excellent quality at an affordable price. You just have to decide where you’ll use your device.

FAQ on Night Vision Binoculars

Do you still have some questions? Below you will find answers to the most common questions about night vision goggles.

Why is night vision so expensive?

night vision binoculars on the table

In the USA, the demand for night vision is much higher than the supply. Since it is primarily used for the military and law enforcement sectors, most of the manufactured products are sold to these agencies. Night vision also uses many expensive components. The most important element is the special optics. The cost also varies depending on the generation (there are 4): the newer it is, the more expensive the model.

What should I look for in night vision binoculars?

The device must have high-quality optics, durable design, and variable magnification regardless of the purpose. The availability of other functions and their technical characteristics depends on how serious the device you need. For entertainment, you can purchase first-generation night vision, and second-generation devices are suitable for hunting and surveillance.

What are the best night vision binoculars?

Among the budget models in our today’s review, we recommend GTHUNDER Digital Night Vision Goggles as the best choice in 2022. They have 4x magnification, 7 levels of IR LED adjustment, high resolution, availability to record photos and video, and an easy menu.

Can you use night vision during the day?

A night vision device with light intensifier tubes cannot provide sufficient image quality during the day. Digital night vision binoculars show objects’ thermal signatures day and night.

How far can night vision binoculars see?

The viewing range of an object depends on the generation of night vision technology. First-generation devices typically see up to 75 yards, second-generation up to 150 yards, and third-generation up to 300 yards. For models of the latest generation, the distance can be much longer.

Want to See Like a Cat?

Night vision is a great invention that not only allows you to have fun, but also save lives. This industry is constantly evolving, and new technologies are being introduced. Among the many models on the market, you can find an option that suits you in all respects. Inexpensive models have good quality and a basic set of functions. They are great for hunting, fishing, stargazing, and wildlife watching. You can also protect your home using this device.

How do you plan to use night vision? What features do you definitely want to have in your device?

Also read:

About Valery Johnson

Hi, I am Valery and I love nature, the universe and the starry sky. Together with my friend Michael we share our practical knowledge in the field of astronomy and nature observation. We also test different optical instruments to see the strengths and weaknesses of different models. Very often we travel around our country, so we have the opportunity to test optics in different conditions and different seasons. Welcome to Michael's and my blog and we hope you find useful and practical information for yourself.

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