Thermal camera · compared

Topdon TC002C or Spark Pro?

Topdon's TC002C Duo and Spark Pro are close relatives: both plug into a USB-C phone and both have a 256×192 thermal sensor running at 25 frames a second. Here's where they differ — and the Topdon model to avoid if you have an iPhone.

Which Topdon is which

  • TC002C Duo — USB-C, for USB-C iPhones (iPhone 15 and later), Android and Windows. This is the current model.
  • TC002C — the earlier version: USB-C, iPhone and iPad only. Topdon says it doesn't work with Android or Mac.
  • TC001 — for Android phones and Windows. Topdon doesn't list it for iPhone.

TC002C Duo vs Spark Pro

Topdon TC002C DuoSpark Pro
Thermal sensor256×192 (shown as 512×384)256×192 (shown as 512×384)
Refresh rate25 Hz25 Hz
Thermal sensitivityunder 40 mK50 mK
Temperature range−20 to 550 °C (−4 to 1022 °F)−20 to 350 °C (−4 to 662 °F)
Accuracy±2 °C or ±2 %—
Weight30 gabout 21 g
Works withUSB-C iPhones, Android, WindowsUSB-C iPhones 15 Pro to 17, Android 12 or newer
In the boxcamera, USB-C extension cable, USB-C to Lightning cable, carrying case, cleaning clothcamera
AppTopInfraredTHG Start

Where the TC002C Duo is the better choice

  • Range. It measures up to 550 °C; Spark Pro stops at 350 °C. That matters for engines, exhausts, kilns and flues, not for walls and outlets.
  • Sensitivity. Under 40 mK against 50 mK, so it separates slightly smaller temperature differences.
  • What's in the box. The extension cable lets you hold the camera away from the phone — handy with a thick phone case or in a tight spot — and there's a carrying case. Spark Pro comes as the camera alone.
  • Windows. It also works with a Windows computer. Spark Pro works with phones only.

Where Spark Pro is the better choice

  • Lighter. About 21 g against 30 g, which you notice with the camera hanging off the phone's port.
  • No model to get wrong. Topdon sells three similar names with different phone support. There's one Spark Pro, and it works on USB-C iPhones and Android alike.
  • Buying it. From us: free tracked shipping (usually 7–19 business days), 30-day returns, and a full refund including return shipping if it doesn't work with a phone we list as compatible.

So which one?

On paper the TC002C Duo has the edge: a wider temperature range, slightly better sensitivity and more in the box. If you work on engines or anything above 350 °C, choose it. For home checks — leaks, drafts, insulation, hot outlets — both cameras see the same detail, and Spark Pro is the lighter one. Only need close checks? Spark (96×96) covers a window frame or a breaker panel. More on fit: thermal cameras for iPhone 15, 16 and 17.

Topdon is a trademark of its owner; we're not affiliated. Topdon specs are from Topdon's own product pages as of October 2026.

Questions

Do the TC002C Duo and Spark Pro have the same resolution?

Yes. Both have a 256×192 thermal sensor, shown as 512×384 in the app, and both refresh at 25 Hz.

Which Topdon works with iPhone 16?

The TC002C Duo and the earlier TC002C, both USB-C. The TC001 is for Android and Windows.

Does Spark Pro come with an extension cable?

No, it comes as the camera alone and plugs straight into the phone. The TC002C Duo includes an extension cable.

Which one is better for engines and exhausts?

The TC002C Duo. It measures up to 550 °C; Spark Pro measures up to 350 °C.

Can I return it?

Yes, within 30 days of delivery if it's unused and in its original packaging. If it doesn't work with a phone we list as compatible, we refund you in full, including return shipping.

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