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Thermal Vision in GTA Online may look like a small feature at first, but it can actually help a lot during gameplay. It allows you to see heat signatures clearly, which makes it easier to spot enemies at night, inside dark buildings, or even from far distance. Many players ignore it early, but once you learn how it works, it becomes very useful.
Here is a simple guide on how to get and use thermal vision in GTA Online.
Where To Buy Thermal Vision In GTA Online
Thermal vision is not a separate gadget. It comes with specific combat helmets. To buy one, go to a mask or clothing shop. The beach mask store near the pier is a common choice, but other clothing stores also sell helmets.
When you enter the store:
- Open the Hats or Helmets category
- Look for Combat Helmets
- Focus on helmets with four lenses
This part is important. Dual-lens helmets usually give night vision, while quad-lens helmets provide thermal vision. The preview image often shows a bluish tint, which means it supports heat detection.
Prices may vary, but performance stays the same across all quad-lens helmets. Even the cheaper option works perfectly.
How To Equip Thermal Vision Helmet
Buying the helmet is only the first step. You still need to equip it properly.
Open the Interaction Menu and go to:
- Appearance → Accessories → Helmets
- Select your quad-lens helmet and wear it. After that, make sure the visor is pulled down. If the visor stays up, thermal vision will not work.
This is a small detail many players miss.
How To Turn Thermal Vision On And Off
Once the helmet is equipped correctly, you can activate thermal vision easily.
There are two simple ways:
- Use the quick toggle button for instant activation
- Or use the Interaction Menu again to activate it manually
The quick toggle method is faster during fights or missions. Manual activation works well if the shortcut does not respond.
When activated, characters and heat sources glow in bright colors, while the environment looks cooler and darker. This helps you notice movement quickly.
Best Situations To Use Thermal Vision
Thermal vision becomes very helpful in certain situations:
- Night fights and dark missions
- PvP battles where enemies hide behind cover
- Stealth gameplay when tracking players quietly
- Heist setups or survival missions with low lighting
It also helps during free roam if you want better awareness of nearby players.
Many experienced players keep a thermal helmet ready because it can give a small but important advantage.
Extra Tips For Better Use
A few small tips can improve your experience:
- Always save the helmet in an outfit slot for quick access
- Practice switching vision fast during combat
- Combine thermal vision with good positioning
- Do not rely only on it, awareness still matters
These small habits make gameplay smoother.
Also Read: GTA Online MC Business: Best Solo Sell Guide (2026)
