Top 20 Best Red Dot Sights for Handgun of 2024: Comprehensive Review and Top Picks

When it comes to handguns, adding a red dot sight can significantly enhance your shooting accuracy and speed.

As a shooter who has tried a variety of red dot sights over the years, I’ve come to appreciate the fine balance between reliability, ease of use, and durability that these optics bring. In 2024, the market is flooded with options, and choosing the best red dot sight for your handgun can be a daunting task.

In this article, I’ll walk you through more than 20 of the top red dot sights available this year, breaking down the pros and cons of each one based on my personal experience and online feedback from the shooting community.

Top 20 Best Red Dot Sights for Handguns in 2024

Let’s kick off with a top product list that highlights the best red dot sights you can get your hands on this year. Each of these picks has been chosen based on quality, performance, and overall value for money.

Now, let’s dive into each product in detail.

1. Trijicon RMR Type 2

The Trijicon RMR Type 2 has been a staple in the world of red dot sights for quite some time, and for good reason. As soon as you mount it on your handgun, you’ll notice the rugged construction that’s designed to withstand the harshest conditions. This sight is known for its durability and has been tested extensively in real-world scenarios.

Best Features:

• Battery Life: The RMR Type 2 boasts a battery life of up to 4 years on a single CR2032 battery.
• Auto-Adjust Brightness: The sight automatically adjusts the brightness of the reticle to match the lighting conditions, a feature I find incredibly useful in dynamic environments.
• Mounting: This optic can be directly mounted on many handguns that are pre-cut for the RMR footprint, although an adapter plate may be required for some models.

Pros:

• Incredibly durable
• Long battery life
• Reliable auto-brightness feature

Cons:

• Slightly expensive
• The dot size might be too large for precision shooting at longer ranges

Personal Experience:
I’ve had the RMR Type 2 on my Glock 19 for over two years, and it has never failed me. The sight holds zero perfectly, even after hundreds of rounds. I’ve also dropped the gun a few times (unintentionally), and the sight took the hit like a champ. Online discussions echo my sentiments, with many users praising its reliability and build quality.

Mounting:
While the RMR Type 2 can be mounted directly onto RMR-ready slides, if your handgun isn’t pre-cut, you will need a compatible mounting plate.

2. Leupold DeltaPoint Pro

Leupold is a name synonymous with high-quality optics, and the DeltaPoint Pro is no exception. This sight is a favorite among competition shooters and tactical operators alike.

Best Features:

• Large Viewing Window: The DeltaPoint Pro offers one of the largest viewing windows in its class, making it easy to acquire targets quickly.
• Motion Sensor Technology: This feature ensures that the sight is ready the moment you draw your firearm by automatically turning on the reticle when motion is detected.
• Mounting: The DeltaPoint Pro has a broad compatibility range, fitting directly onto various handguns or requiring minimal adjustments.

Pros:

• Wide field of view
• Robust build
• Quick target acquisition

Cons:

• Relatively short battery life
• Slightly bulkier compared to other sights

Personal Experience:
I’ve used the DeltaPoint Pro in several USPSA matches, and its large window has consistently helped me shave seconds off my time. The sight’s motion sensor is incredibly responsive, which means you’re not wasting precious time waiting for your sight to power up. However, I’ve noticed the battery tends to drain quicker than I’d like, especially in constant use.

Mounting:
The DeltaPoint Pro is versatile in its mounting options. It can be directly mounted on some handguns, while others might require an adapter plate.

3. Holosun HS507C X2

Holosun has made a name for itself by offering affordable yet reliable optics, and the HS507C X2 is a testament to that reputation. It’s packed with features typically found in higher-end sights but at a fraction of the cost.

Best Features:

• Multi-Reticle System: This sight offers a choice between a 2 MOA dot, a 32 MOA circle, or a combination of both, which adds versatility depending on your shooting needs.
• Solar Failsafe: The HS507C X2 has a solar panel that powers the sight when there’s sufficient light, conserving battery life.
• Mounting: It shares the same footprint as the RMR, making it easy to find compatible mounting options.

Pros:

• Excellent value for money
• Multiple reticle options
• Solar power backup

Cons:

• Slightly dimmer dot compared to premium models
• Build quality isn’t as robust as higher-end sights

Personal Experience:
I initially bought the HS507C X2 as a budget-friendly option for one of my range pistols, and it has exceeded my expectations. The multiple reticle options are a great touch, especially when switching between different shooting styles. I’ve noticed some online users mention that the dot isn’t as bright as more expensive models, but it hasn’t been an issue for me under most conditions.

Mounting:
The HS507C X2 can be mounted directly onto any handgun that supports the RMR footprint, making it highly versatile.

4. Vortex Venom

The Vortex Venom is a lightweight and compact option that doesn’t compromise on performance. It’s well-suited for both competitive shooting and everyday carry.

Best Features:

• Ease of Use: The Venom features a user-friendly design with easy-to-access controls for brightness and windage/elevation adjustments.
• Clear Optics: The glass is clear, and the dot is crisp, making it easier to acquire targets quickly.
• Mounting: It can be mounted directly to most handgun slides that are pre-cut for the Vortex footprint, or you can use an adapter plate.

Pros:

• Lightweight and compact
• Affordable
• Clear optics

Cons:

• Battery compartment requires sight removal for changes
• Shorter battery life compared to competitors

Personal Experience:
I’ve used the Vortex Venom on my Smith & Wesson M&P for quite some time, and I appreciate how light it feels on the gun. It doesn’t add unnecessary bulk, which is a big plus for concealed carry. The controls are intuitive, but I do wish the battery life was a bit longer.

Mounting:
The Venom can be mounted directly to Vortex-ready slides, but if your handgun isn’t cut for it, you’ll need a mounting plate.

5. Burris FastFire 3

The Burris FastFire 3 is another budget-friendly option that offers a lot of bang for your buck. It’s particularly popular among shooters who want a reliable sight without breaking the bank.

Best Features:

• Compact Design: The FastFire 3 is small and lightweight, making it ideal for handguns.
• Automatic Brightness: The sight automatically adjusts the brightness of the reticle to suit the lighting conditions, though you can also manually adjust it.
• Mounting: The FastFire 3 can be mounted directly onto compatible handguns or with an adapter plate.

Pros:

• Affordable
• Compact and lightweight
• Auto-brightness feature

Cons:

• Not as rugged as higher-end models
• Limited battery life

Personal Experience:
I initially bought the Burris FastFire 3 for a budget build and have been pleasantly surprised by its performance. The sight is incredibly light, which makes it a great choice for a carry gun. However, I’ve found that it’s not as durable as some of the pricier options, so I wouldn’t recommend it for heavy-duty use.

Mounting:
The FastFire 3 can be mounted directly onto slides that are cut for the Burris footprint, but you’ll need an adapter for other models.

6. Sig Sauer Romeo1 Pro

The Sig Sauer Romeo1 Pro is designed with the serious shooter in mind, offering a high-quality red dot sight that’s packed with features.

Best Features:

• Advanced Lens Coating: The sight’s lens features a proprietary coating that enhances light transmission and reduces glare.
• Top-Loading Battery: Unlike some other sights, the battery compartment is easily accessible from the top, so you don’t have to remove the sight to change the battery.
• Mounting: The Romeo1 Pro is designed to mount directly onto Sig Sauer’s Pro-cut slides but can also fit other models with the appropriate adapter.

Pros:

• Excellent lens clarity
• Top-loading battery compartment
• Durable construction

Cons:

• Expensive
• Limited to specific footprints

Personal Experience:
The Romeo1 Pro has been my go-to sight for my Sig P320, and it’s been nothing short of stellar. The lens clarity is exceptional, and the top-loading battery compartment is a game-changer. It’s a bit on the pricey side, but for the quality, I think it’s worth every penny.

Mounting:
The Romeo1 Pro is designed to mount directly to Sig Sauer Pro-cut slides, but you’ll need an adapter for other handgun models.

7. Shield Sights RMSc

Shield Sights has built a reputation for creating compact, durable red dot sights, and the RMSw is no exception. It’s a slim, waterproof sight that’s perfect for concealed carry.

Best Features:

• Ultra-Compact Design: The RMSw is incredibly slim and lightweight, making it ideal for carry guns.
• Waterproof: This sight is fully waterproof, so you don’t have to worry about it in adverse weather conditions.
• Mounting: It can be directly mounted to Shield RMS-compatible slides or with an adapter plate for other models.

Pros:

• Slim profile
• Waterproof
• Lightweight

Cons:

• Limited battery life
• Smaller window

Personal Experience:
I’ve carried the RMSc on my EDC gun for several months, and its slim profile is a huge benefit. It barely adds any bulk to my handgun, making it perfect for concealed carry. However, the smaller window does take some getting used to, especially if you’re accustomed to larger sights.

Mounting:
The RMSw mounts directly to slides cut for Shield RMS footprints, or you can use an adapter plate for other handguns.

8. Swampfox Liberty

Swampfox is a relatively new player in the optics market, but the Liberty red dot sight has quickly gained a following for its affordability and performance.

Best Features:

• Wide Field of View: Despite its compact size, the Liberty offers a wide field of view, making it easier to acquire targets.
• Shake Awake Technology: The sight powers on with movement, conserving battery life when not in use.
• Mounting: It shares the same footprint as the RMR, making it easy to mount on various handguns.

Pros:

• Affordable
• Wide field of view
• Shake Awake technology

Cons:

• Build quality isn’t as robust as higher-end sights
• Slightly dimmer dot

Personal Experience:
I picked up the Swampfox Liberty as a budget option for one of my range guns, and I’ve been impressed with its performance. The wide field of view is a significant advantage, especially in dynamic shooting scenarios. However, the build quality does feel a bit more fragile compared to premium sights.

Mounting:
The Liberty can be mounted directly onto any handgun that supports the RMR footprint, offering a versatile mounting solution.

9. Aimpoint Acro P-2

The Aimpoint Acro P-2 is a fully enclosed red dot sight, making it one of the most durable options on the market. It’s designed for shooters who demand the utmost reliability from their optics.

Best Features:

• Enclosed Design: The Acro P-2’s fully enclosed design protects the emitter from dust, debris, and moisture, making it incredibly durable.
• Battery Life: This sight offers a battery life of up to 5 years on a single CR2032 battery.
• Mounting: The Acro P-2 requires a specific mounting plate but can be adapted to fit various handguns.

Pros:

• Extremely durable
• Long battery life
• Fully enclosed design

Cons:

• Expensive
• Requires a specific mounting plate

Personal Experience:
I’ve used the Acro P-2 on my duty pistol, and it’s the most rugged red dot sight I’ve ever encountered. It’s been through rain, mud, and rough handling without missing a beat. The fully enclosed design gives me peace of mind, knowing that the sight is protected from the elements. The downside is the price, but if you’re looking for a sight that will last, the Acro P-2 is worth the investment.

Mounting:
The Acro P-2 requires a specific mounting plate, so make sure your handgun is compatible or that you have the correct adapter.

10. Crimson Trace CTS-1550

Crimson Trace is known for their laser sights, but they also produce red dot sights like the CTS-1550, which is a compact and affordable option for everyday carry.

Best Features:

• Compact Design: The CTS-1550 is small and lightweight, making it perfect for carry guns.
• Automatic Brightness: The sight adjusts its brightness automatically based on the lighting conditions.
• Mounting: It can be mounted directly onto slides cut for Shield RMS footprints or with an adapter for other models.

Pros:

• Lightweight and compact
• Affordable
• Auto-brightness feature

Cons:

• Limited battery life
• Smaller window

Personal Experience:
I’ve used the CTS-1550 on a subcompact carry gun, and it’s a solid option for those who want a red dot sight without adding much bulk. The automatic brightness adjustment is a nice feature, but I’ve found the battery life to be somewhat limited. However, for the price, it’s hard to beat.

Mounting:
The CTS-1550 can be mounted directly onto Shield RMS-ready slides or with an adapter plate.

11. TruGlo Tru-Tec Micro

The TruGlo Tru-Tec Micro is another budget-friendly option that offers good performance for its price point. It’s a small, lightweight sight that’s well-suited for concealed carry.

Best Features:

• Compact Design: The Tru-Tec Micro is designed to be small and lightweight, perfect for carry guns.
• Auto On/Off: The sight powers on automatically when it senses motion and powers off after inactivity.
• Mounting: It shares the same footprint as the RMR, making it easy to mount on various handguns.

Pros:

• Affordable
• Auto on/off feature
• Lightweight

Cons:

• Shorter battery life
• Not as durable as higher-end models

Personal Experience:
I bought the Tru-Tec Micro as an affordable option for a backup gun, and it’s performed admirably. The auto on/off feature is convenient, but the battery life isn’t as long as I’d like. That said, for a budget sight, it does the job well.

Mounting:
The Tru-Tec Micro can be mounted directly to RMR-ready slides, or with an adapter for other models.

12. Meopta MeoRed

Meopta is a lesser-known brand in the handgun optic world, but their MeoRed sight offers excellent performance at a competitive price.

Best Features:

• Clear Optics: The MeoRed features high-quality glass that provides a clear and crisp dot.
• Durable Build: The sight is built to withstand rough handling and harsh conditions.
• Mounting: It shares the RMR footprint, making it compatible with a wide range of handguns.

Pros:

• High-quality glass
• Durable construction
• Competitive price

Cons:

• Limited availability
• Battery life could be better

Personal Experience:
I was pleasantly surprised by the MeoRed’s performance. The optics are on par with some of the higher-end sights, and the build quality is impressive for the price. The only downside is that it’s not as widely available, so finding one might be a bit challenging.

Mounting:
The MeoRed can be mounted directly to RMR-ready slides, making it a versatile option.

13. Bushnell RXS-250

Bushnell is a well-known name in the optics industry, and the RXS250 is their entry into the handgun red dot sight market. It’s a robust sight that offers great value for its price.

Best Features:

• Durable Construction: The RXS250 is built to withstand the rigors of daily use, with a rugged design that can take a beating.
• Long Battery Life: This sight offers up to 50,000 hours of battery life on a single CR2032 battery.
• Mounting: It shares the RMR footprint, making it compatible with many handguns.

Pros:

• Durable construction
• Long battery life
• Affordable

Cons:

• Slightly bulkier than other sights
• Dot can be a bit dim in bright light

Personal Experience:
The RXS250 has been a solid performer on my range gun. It’s built like a tank and has held up well to regular use. The battery life is excellent, though I’ve noticed that the dot can be a bit dim in very bright conditions.

Mounting:
The RXS250 can be mounted directly to slides that support the RMR footprint.

14. C-MORE Systems STS2

C-MORE Systems is known for their competition-grade optics, and the STS2 is a favorite among competitive shooters for its performance and reliability.

Best Features:

• Large Window: The STS2 features a large viewing window, making it easy to acquire targets quickly.
• Customizable: The sight offers a variety of dot sizes, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your needs.
• Mounting: It requires a specific mounting plate but is compatible with various handgun models.

Pros:

• Large viewing window
• Customizable dot sizes
• Reliable performance

Cons:

• Expensive
• Requires specific mounting plate

Personal Experience:
I’ve used the STS2 in several competitions, and it’s a fantastic sight for fast shooting. The large window makes target acquisition a breeze, and the ability to choose different dot sizes is a great feature. However, it’s not the most affordable option out there, and you’ll need the right mounting plate for your handgun.

Mounting:
The STS2 requires a specific mounting plate, so make sure you have the correct adapter for your handgun.

15. Primary Arms SLx RS-10

Primary Arms is known for offering affordable optics that perform well above their price point, and the SLx RS-10 is no exception.

Best Features:

• Affordability: The SLx RS-10 is one of the most budget-friendly red dot sights on the market, making it a great choice for those on a tight budget.
• Durable Build: Despite its low price, the sight is built to withstand rough handling and harsh conditions.
• Mounting: It shares the RMR footprint, making it compatible with a wide range of handguns.

Pros:

• Affordable
• Durable construction
• Easy to mount

Cons:

• Battery life could be better
• Slightly bulkier design

Personal Experience:
The SLx RS-10 has been a pleasant surprise. For the price, it’s a solid sight that performs well in a variety of conditions. It’s a bit bulkier than some other options, but for the money, it’s hard to beat.

Mounting:
The SLx RS-10 can be mounted directly to RMR-ready slides, making it a versatile option.

16. EOTech EFLX

EOTech is a well-known name in the optics world, and the EFLX is their entry into the handgun red dot sight market. It’s a premium sight that offers excellent performance.

Best Features:

• Clear Optics: The EFLX features high-quality glass that provides a clear and crisp dot.
• Durable Construction: The sight is built to withstand rough handling and harsh conditions.
• Mounting: It shares the RMR footprint, making it compatible with a wide range of handguns.

Pros:

• High-quality glass
• Durable construction
• Reliable performance

Cons:

• Expensive
• Slightly bulkier design

Personal Experience:
The EFLX has been a fantastic addition to my collection. The optics are crystal clear, and the build quality is top-notch. It’s a bit on the pricey side, but if you’re looking for a high-end sight, it’s worth the investment.

Mounting:
The EFLX can be mounted directly to RMR-ready slides, making it a versatile option.

17. Trijicon SRO

The Trijicon SRO (Specialized Reflex Optic) is designed specifically for competitive shooting, offering a large viewing window and exceptional clarity.

Best Features:

• Large Viewing Window: The SRO features one of the largest viewing windows on the market, making it easy to acquire targets quickly.
• Top-Loading Battery: The battery compartment is easily accessible from the top, so you don’t have to remove the sight to change the battery.
• Mounting: The SRO shares the RMR footprint, making it compatible with a wide range of handguns.

Pros:

• Large viewing window
• Top-loading battery compartment
• Reliable performance

Cons:

• Expensive
• Slightly bulkier design

Personal Experience:
The SRO has been a game-changer for me in competitive shooting. The large window makes it incredibly easy to track targets, and the top-loading battery compartment is a big plus. It’s not the cheapest option, but if you’re serious about competition, it’s worth every penny.

Mounting:
The SRO can be mounted directly to RMR-ready slides, making it a versatile option.

18. Holosun 407K

The Holosun 407K is a compact and affordable red dot sight that’s perfect for concealed carry. It’s a smaller version of the popular 507C, designed specifically for subcompact handguns.

Best Features:

• Compact Design: The 407K is designed to be small and lightweight, making it ideal for carry guns.
• Long Battery Life: This sight offers up to 50,000 hours of battery life on a single CR1632 battery.
• Mounting: It shares the same footprint as the Shield RMSc, making it compatible with many subcompact handguns.

Pros:

• Compact and lightweight
• Long battery life
• Affordable

Cons:

• Smaller window
• Slightly dimmer dot

Personal Experience:
The 407K has been a great addition to my subcompact carry gun. It’s small and light, so it doesn’t add much bulk, and the long battery life is a big plus. The window is smaller than some other sights, but it’s perfect for a carry gun.

Mounting:
The 407K can be mounted directly to Shield RMSc-ready slides, making it a versatile option for subcompact handguns.

19. Vortex Razor Red Dot

The Vortex Razor Red Dot is a high-end sight that offers exceptional performance and clarity. It’s designed for serious shooters who demand the best.

Best Features:

• Clear Optics: The Razor Red Dot features high-quality glass that provides a clear and crisp dot.
• Durable Construction: The sight is built to withstand rough handling and harsh conditions.
• Mounting: It shares the RMR footprint, making it compatible with a wide range of handguns.

Pros:

• High-quality glass
• Durable construction
• Reliable performance

Cons:

• Expensive
• Slightly bulkier design

Personal Experience:
The Razor Red Dot has been a fantastic addition to my collection. The optics are crystal clear, and the build quality is top-notch. It’s a bit on the pricey side, but if you’re looking for a high-end sight, it’s worth the investment.

Mounting:
The Razor Red Dot can be mounted directly to RMR-ready slides, making it a versatile option.

20. ADE Advanced Optics RD3-006

The ADE Advanced Optics RD3-006 is a budget-friendly option that offers good performance for its price point. It’s a small, lightweight sight that’s well-suited for concealed carry.

Best Features:

• Compact Design: The RD3-006 is designed to be small and lightweight, perfect for carry guns.
• Auto On/Off: The sight powers on automatically when it senses motion and powers off after inactivity.
• Mounting: It shares the same footprint as the Shield RMSc, making it compatible with many subcompact handguns.

Pros:

• Affordable
• Auto on/off feature
• Lightweight

Cons:

• Shorter battery life
• Not as durable as higher-end models

Personal Experience:
I bought the RD3-006 as an affordable option for a backup gun, and it’s performed admirably. The auto on/off feature is convenient, but the battery life isn’t as long as I’d like. That said, for a budget sight, it does the job well.

Mounting:
The RD3-006 can be mounted directly to Shield RMSc-ready slides, or with an adapter for other models.

 

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Conclusion

In conclusion, there’s a wide variety of red dot sights available in 2024, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Whether you’re looking for a high-end sight for competition shooting or a budget-friendly option for everyday carry, there’s something on this list for everyone. Take your time to consider your needs, and don’t be afraid to try out a few different options before settling on the best red dot sight for your handgun.