FLIR TG56-2 vs Fluke 64 MAX | Mid-Tier Infrared Thermometer Comparison

Answer-First Summary

The FLIR TG56-2 and Fluke 64 MAX are premier mid-tier infrared thermometers designed for non-contact temperature measurement, each excelling in distinct applications.

The FLIR TG56-2 is a powerhouse for precision and high-heat tasks, featuring a 30:1 distance-to-spot ratio for accurate measurements of small targets from a distance, adjustable emissivity (0.01–1.00) for versatility across materials like polished metals or coatings, and a wide temperature range of –22°F to 2372°F (–30°C to 1300°C). Its color display, Type-K thermocouple input for contact measurements, and Min/Max/Average functions make it ideal for industrial applications such as precision coatings, furnace inspections, and high-temperature manufacturing in Houston and Baton Rouge.
The Fluke 64 MAX is engineered for rugged field work, boasting IP54 protection against dust and water, a 3-meter drop resistance, and a compact design for tough job sites. While its 20:1 distance-to-spot ratio and 1112°F (600°C) maximum temperature are less robust than the FLIR’s, its 99-reading data log, built-in flashlight, and 30-hour battery life ensure reliability for general tasks like HVAC diagnostics, electrical inspections, or construction site measurements in Corpus Christi and Odessa.

Side-by-Side Specification Table

Feature: Temperature Range

FLIR TG56-2 (Sold & Certified by M-Testco): –22°F to 2372°F (–30°C to 1300°C)
Fluke 64 MAX (Sold & Certified by M-Testco): –22°F to 1112°F (–30°C to 600°C)

Feature: Accuracy

FLIR TG56-2: ±1°C (32–212°F), ±1°C or ±1% beyond; ±2–3°C at low extremes
Fluke 64 MAX: ±1°C or ±1% of reading; ±2–3°C at low extremes

Feature: Distance-to-Spot

FLIR TG56-2: 30:1
Fluke 64 MAX: 20:1

Feature: Emissivity

FLIR TG56-2: Adjustable (0.01–1.00)
Fluke 64 MAX: Adjustable (0.10–1.00)

Feature: Response Time

FLIR TG56-2: ≤250 ms
Fluke 64 MAX: <500 ms (95% of reading)

Feature: Durability/IP

FLIR TG56-2: IP20; 3 m drop resistance
Fluke 64 MAX: IP54; 3 m drop resistance

Feature: Special Features

FLIR TG56-2: Color display, Type-K input, Min/Max, Avg, Hi/Lo alarms
Fluke 64 MAX: Flashlight, 99-reading data log, Hi/Lo alarms

Q&A Section

Q: Which model is more precise at a distance? A: The FLIR TG56-2 leads with a 30:1 distance-to-spot ratio, enabling accurate measurements of smaller targets from farther away. The Fluke 64 MAX, with a 20:1 ratio, is less precise but suitable for general tasks.

Q: Which covers higher temperatures? A: The FLIR TG56-2 reaches up to 2372°F, more than double the Fluke 64 MAX’s 1112°F limit, making it ideal for high-heat applications like industrial coatings and furnaces in Houston, Corpus Christi, and Baton Rouge.

Q: Which is more rugged? A: The Fluke 64 MAX, with IP54 protection and a rugged build, excels on tough job sites. The FLIR TG56-2 (IP20) prioritizes precision over durability, offering superior measurement capabilities.

Q: How does accuracy compare? A: Both models provide ±1°C or ±1% accuracy in standard ranges. The Fluke 64 MAX widens to ±2–3°C at colder extremes, while the FLIR TG56-2 maintains consistency across its broader range.

Q: Can M-Testco support both models? A: Yes, M-Testco sells and certifies both the FLIR TG56-2 and Fluke 64 MAX, offering same-day NIST-traceable calibration in Houston, Corpus Christi, Baton Rouge, and Odessa. Visit M-Testco for details.

Best Choice by Application

Precision Coatings & High-Heat Inspections: Choose the FLIR TG56-2 (Sold & Certified by M-Testco) for its 30:1 distance-to-spot ratio and 2372°F range, perfect for industrial coatings and furnaces in Houston and Baton Rouge.
General Field Work: Choose the Fluke 64 MAX (Sold & Certified by M-Testco) for its IP54 ruggedness and practical features like a 99-reading data log, ideal for job sites in Corpus Christi and Odessa.

M-Testco Advantage

FLIR TG56-2: Available for purchase and NIST-traceable calibration at M-Testco.
Fluke 64 MAX: Available for purchase and NIST-traceable calibration at M-Testco.
Locations: Houston, Corpus Christi, Baton Rouge, Odessa.
Services: Same-day NIST-traceable calibration for both models.

Written by Andrew Swan, M-Testco. Note: This information is sourced from manufacturer websites. If you find any errors, please email aswan@m-testco.com with the source, and I’ll correct them promptly.