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Top 9 Best Red Dot Sights Under $100

Most high-quality red dots come with a hefty price tag, but that doesn't mean you can't find rock-solid options under $100. We've done the legwork to uncover the best sub-$100 red dots– prepare to be surprised at the performance you can get for the price!

Top 9 Best Red Dot Sights Under $100 in 2024

Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 Red Dot Sight Riflescope

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Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 red dot sight has been a surprisingly good budget buddy on my AR-15. For under $100, it packs a punch in terms of functionality and usability. Here's why the TRS-25 punches above its weight, but also some things to consider before strapping it onto your rifle.

Specs and Features:

3 MOA red dot: This is a good size for quick target acquisition at close to medium range.

11 brightness settings: You can adjust the dot intensity to match various lighting conditions, from bright sun to low-light shooting (with compatible night sights).

Waterproof and fogproof: No need to worry about downpours or humid environments messing with your sight picture.

Mount included: The TRS-25 comes with a weaver-style mount, making it easy to attach to your AR platform or other rifles with compatible rails.

Best Features and Advantages for Under $100:

Bang for your buck: Seriously, red dot sights can get expensive. But the TRS-25 offers a fantastic entry point into the red dot world without breaking the bank.

All-weather performer: The waterproof and fogproof construction makes it a reliable option for various shooting conditions.

Easy to use: The brightness adjustment is straightforward, and the red dot is clear and visible.

Disadvantages and Considerations:

Limited durability: Compared to higher-end red dots, the TRS-25 might not be the toughest sight on the market. Treat it with care if you expect heavy use.

Battery life isn't amazing: While decent, the battery life isn't the longest. Invest in good quality batteries and keep an extra on hand.

Bulkier sight picture: The TRS-25 has a bit of a larger profile compared to some micro red dots.

My Experience:

For the price, I've been very happy with the TRS-25 on my AR-15. The red dot has noticeably improved my target acquisition speed, especially at closer distances.

The brightness adjustments work well, and the sight has held up well at the range in all weather conditions so far. It's a great budget option to get you started with red dot sights and experience the advantages they offer.

Online Chatter:

Online forums are filled with discussions about the TRS-25, with many users praising its affordability and functionality.

Some folks who are using it for serious competition or harsh environments recommend upgrading to a more robust red dot sight.

But, the overall consensus is that the TRS-25 offers incredible value for casual shooters or those new to red dots. It's a great way to try out the red dot system without a huge investment.

The Verdict:

If you're a budget-minded shooter looking for an entry-level red dot sight for your AR-15 or other rifles, the Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 is absolutely worth considering. It's a fantastic value, offers clear red dot functionality, and handles basic weather conditions.

However, if you need a red dot for heavy use, competition shooting, or extreme environments, you might want to explore some more durable and feature-rich options. But for plinking at the range or getting your feet wet with red dot sights, the TRS-25 is a great budget option!

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CVLIFE JackalHowl Red Dot Sight

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Let me tell you about the CVLIFE JackalHowl red dot sight. For under $100, it's been a surprisingly decent option for my AR-15. It won't win any awards for bells and whistles, but as a budget red dot, it gets the job done. Here's my take:

Specs and Features:

Budget-friendly price tag - under $100, it's a very affordable entry point into red dot sights.

1x20mm sight picture - offers a decent field of view for quick target acquisition.

2 MOA red dot - a good size for close- to mid-range shooting on an AR.

Motion Awake technology - automatically activates the reticle with movement, a plus at this price point.

10 brightness settings - allows you to adjust the dot intensity for various lighting conditions.

Includes both a co-witness riser mount and a low-profile mount - gives you options for mounting height on your AR.

Best Features and Advantages:

Considering the price, the JackalHowl offers some solid features. The Motion Awake is a nice surprise at this price point, saving you time fumbling to turn on the sight. The 10 brightness settings provide some versatility in different lighting conditions. The 2 MOA dot is a good size for typical AR shooting distances, and the inclusion of both a co-witness riser and a low-profile mount gives you flexibility in how you set it up.

Disadvantages and Downsides:

Now, for the reality check. You won't get top-of-the-line quality here. The sight picture isn't the clearest, especially compared to more expensive red dots. The build quality feels decent but not something I'd trust for heavy use. Also, some users report the battery life isn't the greatest.

My Experience:

For plinking around at the range with my AR, the JackalHowl has been a decent value. The red dot is usable, and the Motion Awake is a handy feature. However, I wouldn't trust it for serious applications where reliability is crucial.

Online Buzz:

Reviews for the JackalHowl are mixed online. Budget-minded shooters appreciate the affordability and the presence of features like Motion Awake. However, others mention the somewhat blurry sight picture, concerns about durability, and shorter battery life. The overall consensus is that it's a gamble at this price point, but for casual range use, it might be a worthwhile option if you're on a tight budget. If you can stretch your budget a bit, there are some other red dot sights out there that offer better overall quality and performance.

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Cyelee Red Dot Sight

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Let's be honest, not everyone has a thousand bucks to drop on a red dot sight. When I was looking for an affordable option for my AR-15, the Cyelee Red Dot Sight caught my eye. For under $100, it delivers a surprising amount of functionality, making it a solid choice for budget-minded shooters like myself.

Specs and Features:

1x20mm magnification: Offers a clear sight picture without affecting peripheral vision.

2 MOA red dot reticle: A good size for quick target acquisition on an AR-15.

Shake Awake™ technology (advertised): Similar to higher-end red dots, this feature (if it functions as advertised) should automatically turn on the red dot with movement and power down when stationary to conserve battery.

Absolute co-witness riser included: Allows you to use your iron sights along with the red dot sight.

Picatinny mount compatibility: Attaches easily to any standard Picatinny rail.

Why I Gave It a Try:

Sub-$100 Savior: The price is undeniable. It's a red dot sight for under $100, opening up the red dot world to budget-conscious shooters like me.

AR-Friendly Features: The 1x magnification and 2 MOA red dot are a good fit for an AR-15 platform, offering a clear sight picture for close- to mid-range shooting.

Co-witnessing Ready: The included riser allows me to use my iron sights if the red dot ever fails (hopefully not!).

A Few Considerations:

Questionable Quality: Let's be real, for this price point, you can't expect top-of-the-line materials or construction. There are questions about long-term durability, especially on a hard-recoiling rifle like an AR-15.

Uncertain Shake Awake™: While advertised, some user reviews mention the Shake Awake™ feature might be unreliable or even absent on some models.

Limited Reviews: There aren't a ton of reviews out there, making it hard to get a clear picture of long-term performance and reliability.

My Range Experience:

So far, the Cyelee Red Dot Sight has been a decent budget option on my AR-15. The red dot is clear enough for quick target acquisition, and the co-witness riser is a nice touch. However, the jury is still out on the Shake Awake™ feature. Sometimes it seems to work, sometimes it doesn't.

What Others Are Saying:

User reviews on the Cyelee Red Dot Sight are scarce. The few that exist are mixed. Some users praise it as a great budget option, while others mention issues with durability and the unreliability of the Shake Awake™ feature.

The Verdict:

If you're on a shoestring budget and absolutely have to have a red dot sight for your AR-15, the Cyelee Red Dot Sight is an option. It's undeniably affordable, and it offers some basic functionality. However, keep your expectations in check.

The durability might be suspect, and the Shake Awake™ feature seems iffy at best.

It might be better suited for plinking or casual shooting, not serious tactical applications. If you can save up a bit more, a higher quality red dot sight would be a better long-term investment.

But, for the price, the Cyelee can be a gamble worth taking for budget-minded shooters who just want to try out a red dot on their AR-15.

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TRUGLO Dual-Color

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Let's be honest, tricked-out rifles can cost a fortune. That's why I was drawn to the TRUGLO Tru-Brite red dot sight. For under $100, it packs a surprising punch. It's not the fanciest option on the market, but for weekend plinking and target practice, it's become a reliable partner on my AR-15.

Specs:

Budget-friendly: Won't break the bank, leaving more room for ammo and range fees.

Decent size: The 34mm x 24mm window offers a good balance between sight picture and overall footprint.

Dual-color reticle: Choose between red or green to find the best contrast against your target and background.

Best Features for the Price:

Easy on the wallet: A fantastic option for budget-minded shooters who want to experience the benefits of a red dot sight without a hefty price tag.

Simple controls: Just a single button for power and brightness adjustment. No confusing menus to navigate.

Built to take a beating: The lightweight construction feels surprisingly sturdy. It's handled bumps and range trips without issue.

Weekend Warrior Approved:

Faster target acquisition: The red dot makes getting on target significantly faster than iron sights, especially at closer ranges.

Improved accuracy: The precise dot placement helps with focus and shot consistency.

Weatherproof and shockproof: Ready to handle whatever the range throws at me, from rain to recoil.

A Few Things to Keep in Mind:

Limited adjustability: The brightness settings are basic, and there's no fine-tuning for specific lighting conditions.

Battery life could be better: Advertised battery life isn't the strongest, but replacement CR1632 batteries are cheap and readily available.

Not the most rugged:** While it's held up well so far, it likely wouldn't survive a warzone. But for recreational shooting, it's plenty tough.

My Tru-Brite Experience:

This red dot sight has definitely elevated my weekend shooting sessions. The red dot makes hitting targets faster and easier, and the sight itself has proven to be surprisingly durable for the price point. It's a great option for those who want to try out a red dot sight without a huge investment.

What Others Are Saying:

Online reviews are mixed. Budget-minded shooters praise the Tru-Brite's affordability and functionality. However, some users mention the limited adjustability and battery life as drawbacks.

Overall:

If you're looking for a sub-$100 red dot sight for your rifle, the TRUGLO Tru-Brite is a solid option. It's easy to use, improves target acquisition, and can handle the bumps and bruises of casual range use. While it has limitations in adjustability and might not be the most hardcore option, for the price, it's a dependable workhorse for the weekend warrior.

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Veteran Owned DD119 Battle Flag Edition red dot Sight

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Let's be honest, upgrading your AR can get expensive fast. So, when I was looking for a red dot sight under $100, the Dagger Defense DD119 Battle Flag Edition caught my eye. It's a red dot sight from a veteran-owned company, and that's something I can get behind. But is it all patriotism and price tag, or is there real performance here? I put it on my AR-15 to find out.

Specs on a Shoestring Budget:

Red and green dot options - some versatility in choosing your reticle color.

Four reticle shapes - offers a variety of aiming point options (dot, circle-dot, etc.). Be aware, these might not be the most precise.

Locking screw - keeps your zero adjustments secure (important at any price point).

Requires 3 LR44 batteries (included).

Under-$100 Advantage:

The DD119's biggest draw is its price tag. It lets you add red dot functionality to your AR-15 for under $100. Here's what you get for that price:

Multiple Reticle Options: While not the most precise, having a choice of red or green reticles and different shapes can be helpful for finding what works for you.

Basic Functionality: It offers a red dot for faster target acquisition compared to iron sights alone.

Taking it to the Range:

While the price is tempting, there are some things to consider before you buy:

Durability Concerns: This sight feels a bit lightweight, and I wouldn't trust it on a heavily used AR. It might be better suited for plinking or a backup sight.

Battery Life: LR44 batteries aren't known for lasting a long time, and the DD119 chews through them a bit faster than some higher-end red dots.

Not the Most Precise: The sight picture isn't the clearest, and the dot itself might be a bit large for precise aiming at distance.

Real World Results on a Budget:

For casual range use or plinking, the DD119 can be a fun way to experiment with a red dot sight on your AR. However, for serious use or situations where reliability is key, I might recommend saving up for a more robust option.

What Budget AR Shooters Are Saying:

There's not a ton of online discussion specifically about the DD119, but budget red dot sights in general get mixed reviews. Some users appreciate the affordability and the ability to try out a red dot. However, others mention similar concerns about durability, battery life, and overall precision.

Final Verdict:

The Dagger Defense DD119 Battle Flag Edition is a tempting option for budget-minded AR-15 owners. It's affordable and offers some red dot functionality. However, durability, battery life, and precision might be lacking. If you're just starting out with red dots or looking for a casual range sight, it could be an option. But for serious use, you might want to save up for a more reliable red dot sight.

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AT3 Tactical RD-50 Reflex Red Dot Sight

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Let's be honest, upgrading your AR-15 with a red dot sight can get expensive. Enter the AT3 RD-50 - a red dot under $100 that promises to bring some red dot action to your rifle. Here's my take on this budget option, warts and all.

Specs:

2 MOA red dot reticle - standard size for aiming and acquisition.

Picatinny mount - attaches easily to most AR-15 platforms.

Waterproof - (claimed by manufacturer, user reports are mixed)

11 brightness settings - supposedly allows for various lighting conditions.

Budget-friendly price tag - attractive for value-conscious shooters.

Best Features on a Budget:

The biggest perk? The price. The AT3 RD-50 is a fraction of the cost of high-end red dot sights. The 2 MOA red dot is a standard size, and the Picatinny mount makes installation a breeze. Eleven brightness settings sound good on paper, offering some adaptability.

Advantages for the Tight Wallet:

If you're absolutely set on adding a red dot sight to your AR-15 but your budget is screaming "no," the AT3 RD-50 offers a way to get in the game. It might help with faster target acquisition at the range, and the multiple brightness settings (if they function well) could provide some versatility.

The Not-So-Great Stuff:

Here's where things get real. User reviews are mixed on the AT3 RD-50, and there are some potential drawbacks to consider. The weatherproofing claims by the manufacturer seem to be a gamble, with some users reporting issues in even light rain.

The brightness settings might not be as functional or consistent as higher-quality sights. The overall build quality might not be the most durable, and some users have reported issues holding zero (maintaining accuracy) after bumps or adjustments.

Real World Results:

I've used the AT3 RD-50 at the range, and my experience has been... well, mixed. The red dot itself is usable in good lighting conditions. However, the brightness settings can be finicky, and some don't seem to make much difference.

As for the weatherproofing, I wouldn't trust it in anything more than a light drizzle. Keeping zero hasn't been a huge issue for me so far, but I haven't put it through any serious bumps or drops either.

What the Budget-Minded AR Enthusiasts Are Saying:

There's a reason the AT3 RD-50 is a budget option. Online forums are filled with discussions about its affordability. However, user experiences are definitely mixed.

Some find it a decent starting point, while others recommend saving up for a higher-quality sight.

The common concerns are the question of durability, inconsistent brightness settings, and the possibly unreliable weatherproofing.

The Final Verdict:

If you're absolutely strapped for cash and just want to try out a red dot sight on your AR-15, the AT3 RD-50 might be an option. It's undeniably affordable, and it does offer a red dot reticle.

However, keep in mind the potential drawbacks – limited weatherproofing, questionable durability, and inconsistent brightness settings. For anything more serious than casual range use in good lighting conditions, you'll likely want to invest in a higher-quality red dot sight.

Remember, with the AT3 RD-50, you might be getting exactly what you pay for. Do your research and weigh the risks before diving in.

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TRUGLO Tru-Tec Micro

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https://www.amazon.com/Tru-Tec-Red-Dot-Tactical-Picatinny-Shotguns/dp/B078PVR288⁠

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Let's be honest, red dot sights can get crazy expensive. But hey, us budget-minded shooters deserve some love too! That's where the TRUGLO Tru-Tec Micro comes in. This little red dot sight promises a lot for under $100 – is it too good to be true? Here's my experience with the Tru-Tec Micro, the good, the bad, and what other budget-conscious shooters are saying.

Specs and Features:

Compact design – Fits most pistols without excessive bulk.

3 MOA red dot – A decent balance between speed and precision.

Digital push-button controls – Easy to adjust brightness with gloves on.

Auto shutoff – Saves battery life when not in use.

Weatherproof – TruGlo claims it's waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof – big promises for a small price tag.

Under $100 Hero (or Zero?)

The biggest draw of the Tru-Tec Micro is, of course, the price. For under $100, it offers features like a red dot, adjustable brightness, and even an auto-shutoff function. If you're looking for a red dot sight to dip your toes into the red dot world without breaking the bank, the Tru-Tec Micro seems like a tempting option.

The Reality Check:

Now, let's get real. At this price point, there are bound to be some compromises. The 3 MOA dot might be a bit large for some shooters who prefer pinpoint accuracy. Also, while TruGlo claims weatherproofing, some online reviews mention concerns about durability and fog resistance in extreme conditions.

My Experience:

I've been using the Tru-Tec Micro on my .22 plinker at the range. For plinking and casual target shooting, it does the job. The red dot is easy to pick up, and the brightness adjustments are handy. However, I wouldn't trust it for anything serious.

What Folks Are Saying:

Reviews on the Tru-Tec Micro are mixed. Some users, like me, find it a decent option for casual shooting on a budget. Others mention issues with holding zero (maintaining accuracy) and question the durability in harsh environments. The overall consensus seems to be that it's a gamble – it might work for plinking, but don't expect top-of-the-line performance.

The Verdict? It Depends:

If you're a casual shooter on a tight budget and just want to try out a red dot sight, the Tru-Tec Micro might be worth a shot. Just be aware of the limitations. However, if you're looking for a reliable red dot sight for everyday carry, home defense, or serious target shooting, it's best to save up for a higher-quality option.

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Feyachi V30 2MOA Red Dot Sight

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Alright, listen up budget sharpshooters! Let's talk about the Feyachi V30 red dot sight. Coming in under $100, it's a tempting option for those looking to add a red dot to their rifle without breaking the bank. Here's what the Feyachi V30 brings to the table, along with some things to consider before you hit "purchase."

Specs and Features:

2 MOA red dot: This is a good size for quick target acquisition at close to medium range.

Auto on/off: This feature automatically powers up the sight when it senses movement and shuts down after a period of inactivity, saving battery life.

1x20mm objective lens: Offers a decent field of view without adding too much bulk.

Low profile and absolute co-witness mount: Lets you use your iron sights in conjunction with the red dot.

Flip-up lens covers: Protects the red dot when not in use.

Anti-reflection device: Helps to minimize glare in bright conditions.

Best Features and Advantages for Under $100:

Super budget-friendly: Let's face it, optics can get pricey. The Feyachi V30 offers a red dot sight option at a rock-bottom price.

Auto on/off convenience: No more fumbling with buttons to turn the sight on or off.

Co-witnessing and lens protection: The mount allows for iron sight use, and the flip-up covers keep your red dot safe from scratches.

Disadvantages and Considerations:

Unknown durability: At this price point, you can't expect the same rugged build quality as high-end red dots. Handle with care.

Limited reviews and reputation: Feyachi isn't the most well-known brand for optics, so there might be less user experience to draw from compared to established brands.

Some reports of brightness inconsistency: A few online reviews mention potential inconsistencies with the red dot brightness settings.

My Experience:

Look, for the price, the Feyachi V30 isn't bad. The red dot helps with faster target acquisition, and the auto on/off feature is a nice touch. The co-witnessing mount is useful, and the flip-up covers are handy. However, I do find myself babying it a bit more compared to my other sights, unsure of how well it would hold up to heavy use.

Online Buzz:

There aren't a ton of reviews online for the Feyachi V30, which can be a bit of a gamble. The reviews that do exist are mixed. Some users are happy with the budget-friendly functionality, while others mention the aforementioned brightness inconsistencies.

The Verdict:

The Feyachi V30 is a gamble for under $100. It offers some decent features and functionality for the price, but durability and brand reputation are question marks.

If you're absolutely on a tight budget and want to try out a red dot sight for casual plinking, it might be worth a shot.

But if you prioritize reliability and long-term use, you might want to save up for a more established brand with a proven track record.

Top 9 Best Red Dot Sights Under $100 in 2024

Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 Red Dot Sight Riflescope

CVLIFE JackalHowl Red Dot Sight

Cyelee Red Dot Sight

TRUGLO Dual-Color

Veteran Owned DD119 Battle Flag Edition red dot Sight

AT3 Tactical RD-50 Reflex Red Dot Sight

TRUGLO Tru-Tec Micro

Feyachi V30 2MOA Red Dot Sight

STNGR Axiom II Red Dot Sight

Conclusion

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