11 Best Budget Red Dot Sights For 2024 (Under $300)

Buying budget-friendly red dot sights doesn’t necessarily mean you have to compromise on quality.

The trick? Look in the right places and test enough budget-friendly red dot sights until you uncover those hidden gems. That’s where we come in…

We tested dozens of red dot sights, so you don’t have to. Here are our top 11 best red dot sights for budget buyers in 2024.

1) Holosun HS507K-X2 – Best Red Dot Sight

Key Features

• Reticle Size: 2 MOA Dot

• Size/Weight: Ultra-compact, 1 oz

• Battery Life: Up to 50,000 hours

• Mounting Compatibility: Shield RMS Footprint

• Brightness Settings: 12, including two night vision-compatible settings

The Holosun HS507K-X2 is an open reflex sight designed for concealed carry pistols.

It has replaced its older brother (HS407K-X2) as the pinnacle of Holosun’s ingenuity, even though the 407K remains one of the best red dot sights on the market.

Its standout feature is its incredible battery life, offering 50,000 hours thanks to the Shake Awake technology and some excellent engineering.

Of all the red dot sights we tested, the HS507K impressed us the most. The sight maintained zero even after extensive use.

It also has one of the crispest sight pictures I’ve seen in a red dot, giving the likes of Aimpoint and Trijicon a run for their money.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Long battery life for reliable use

• Multiple brightness settings for versatile environments

• Lightweight and compact, ideal for concealed carry

• Shake Awake technology ensures readiness

• Parallax-free view with unlimited eye relief

Cons:

• Primarily designed for sub-compact pistols, limiting versatility

• No included mount – additional purchase required

2) Sig Sauer Romeo 5 – Runner Up

Key Features

• Reticle Size: 2 MOA Dot

• Size/Weight: Compact and versatile for various firearms

• Battery Life: Up to 40,000 hours

• Mounting Compatibility: Integrated M1913 Picatinny interface

• Brightness Settings: 10 daylight, 2 for night vision

I know what you’re thinking: a firearm brand at number two in an optic-review article. Well, the Romeo 5 is THAT good.

This red dot sight is versatile, really versatile. I tested it on my Glocks and AR, and it really excelled on both platforms.

I especially like the MOTAC (motion activated illumination) feature, powering up on a moment’s notice.

Overall, the Romeo 5 is incredibly user-friendly. Its versatility is its standout feature.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Extended battery life with MOTAC technology

• Wide range of brightness settings, including night vision compatibility

• Robust and waterproof construction

• Easy to mount with integrated Picatinny interface

• User-friendly for beginners

Cons:

• Basic features might not satisfy advanced shooters

• Larger footprint compared to micro red dots

3) Burris Fastfire III – Best Competition Shooting Red Dot

Key Features

• Reticle Size: Available in 3 MOA or 8 MOA red dot

• Size/Weight: Compact, 1.5 oz

• Battery Life: Up to 5 years with automatic timeout feature

• Mounting Compatibility: Picatinny/Weaver mount

• Brightness Settings: Automatic sensor with 3 manual settings

Another versatile option, the FastFire 3, is ideal for different firearms due to its simple Picattiny/Weaver mount.

The standout feature is the ease of mounting – it doesn’t take advanced expertise or tools to mount this sight on your firearm.

It also has automatic brightness adjustment – something you don’t find often in budget red dot sights.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Easy battery access with top-loading design

• Automatic and manual brightness settings

• Versatile mounting options for different firearms

• Lightweight and durable construction

• Parallax-free sight picture

Cons:

• Limited advanced features for professional use

• Smaller viewing window compared to larger sights

4) Swampfox Sentinel – Best Compact Red Dot Sight

Key Features

• Reticle Size: 3 MOA Dot

• Size/Weight: Ultra-compact, 0.62 oz

• Battery Life: Extended with auto-brightness models

• Mounting Compatibility: ARMS Mount

• Brightness Settings: 10 levels with auto-adjust feature

The Swampfox Sentinel is an ultra-compact micro dot sight.

It is extremely small, which makes it ideal for concealed carry.

It’s also tough as nails, boasting a durable aluminum body and a rugged design.

I was skeptical of the small design and how it would affect my field of view and optical clarity. But Swampfox delivers. This micro red dot is very comfortable and has a surprisingly wide field of view.

The auto-brightness settings worked flawlessly, both indoors and in intense lighting conditions.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Ultra-compact and lightweight for daily carry

• Durable aluminum construction

• Auto brightness adjustment for environmental adaptability

• Extended battery life with photosensitive sensor

• Clear, multi-coated glass for clarity

Cons:

• Small size might be challenging for users with larger hands

• Manual brightness adjustment requires more interaction

5) Shield Sights Shield Mini 2.0 – Best Beginner-Friendly Red Dot Sight

Key Features

• Reticle Size: 4 MOA Red Dot

• Size/Weight: Sleek and lightweight design

• Battery Life: 2 to 3 years average use

• Mounting Compatibility: Fits existing RMS/SMS mounts

• Brightness Settings: Multiple, including night vision compatibility

The Mini 2.0 is a new and improved version of its predecessor.

Shield returned to the drawing board and perfected the areas in which their sights excel – minimalistic and durable.

I loved the Shield Mini 2.0, especially for its minimalist design – it completely reduces visual distractions you sometimes find on these “premium” red dot sights.

The Mini 2.0 is really good, prioritizing a clear and unobstructed view for the shooter.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Minimalist design reduces visual distractions

• Durable quartz-coated lens for protection

• Multiple brightness settings, including night vision compatibility

• Lightweight and compact for easy handling

• Fits a wide range of mounts for versatility

Cons:

• Limited to a 4 MOA dot, which may not suit all preferences

• Battery replacement requires sight removal

6) Holosun HS407C-X2 – Best Battery Life Red Dot

Key Features

• Reticle Size: 2 MOA Dot

• Size/Weight: Compact, 1.5 oz

• Battery Life: Up to 50,000 hours with solar backup

• Mounting Compatibility: RMR footprint

• Brightness Settings: 12, with 2 for night vision

Another Holosun addition to our list – the HS407C-X2.

This sight is a prime example of how excellent craftsmanship and high-quality materials can convert into shooting accuracy and speed in target acquisition.

Its standout feature is Holosun’s innovative Solar Failsafe, providing peace of mind in case your battery dies.

I enjoyed my time testing the HS407C. My groupings were tight, and I could easily pick up the reticle, regardless of the ambient light.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Solar Failsafe ensures operation in all conditions

• Long battery life for extended use

• Durable and lightweight design

• Multiple brightness settings, including night vision modes

• Parallax-free with unlimited eye relief

Cons:

• Mount sold separately, requiring additional purchase

• May be too compact for users preferring larger sights

7) Primary Arms SLx – Best Red Dot For AR-15s

Key Features

• Reticle Size: 3 MOA Dot

• Size/Weight: Ultra-light, 1.07 oz

• Battery Life: 40,000 hours

• Mounting Compatibility: Docter/Noblex footprint

• Brightness Settings: Multiple daytime and night vision compatible

The SLx is a true testament to Primary Arms’ commitment to innovation and reliability.

I was amazed by the lightweight design of this red dot reflex sight. I could hardly tell the difference when I mounted it on my Glock 9mm.

The clarity and brightness of the dot was another standout feature, making target acquisition a breeze.

Even during a prolonged session at the range, the sight stayed true to its zero, showcasing the SLx’s reliability.

Overall, this sight is the ideal companion for long shooting sessions

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Exceptionally lightweight, enhancing handling

• Long battery life for reliable use

• Versatile mounting compatibility

• Suitable for tactical and recreational use

• Brightness levels compatible with night vision

Cons:

• Limited advanced features for professional shooters

• Smaller reticle size may not suit all shooting styles

8) Bushnell TRS-25 Trophy – Best Red Dot For Shotguns

Key Features

• Reticle Size: 3 MOA Dot

• Size/Weight: Compact, 3.7 oz

• Battery Life: Long-lasting with CR2032 battery

• Mounting Compatibility: Picatinny mount

• Brightness Settings: Adjustable red dot

The Bushnell TRS-25 is geared toward providing quick target acquisition without sacrificing accuracy.

Its robust build ensures it withstands whatever you can throw at it – recoil, rain, dust, etc.

On my first outing with the TRS-25, its performance was noteworthy.

Its dot was crisp and easy to locate against different backgrounds.

AR15, shotgun, Glock – it handled the recoil with ease.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Compact design for easy maneuverability

• Waterproof and shockproof for durability

• Adjustable red dot for varying light conditions

• Unlimited eye relief for comfortable use

• Suitable for shotguns and rifles

Cons:

• Larger objective lens may not appeal to all users

• Battery life less competitive compared to others

9) Swampfox Kingslayer – Best Pistol Red Dot (Tactical)

Key Features

• Reticle Size: 3 MOA Dot

• Size/Weight: Compact, 1.3 oz

• Battery Life: Up to 1,500 hours with CR1632 battery

• Mounting Compatibility: RMR-compatible and Picatinny mount

• Brightness Settings: 10 levels

Another Swampfox for our 10 best budget red dot sights list. The Kingslayer, with its noteworthy name, is ideal for shooters who demand precision and resilience in a compact form.

When I tested it, the rugged build was immediately apparent.

Despite rain and fog, the sight’s performance remained true, offering tight groupings on all occasions.

I’m not a big fan of the smaller objective lens. But the anti-glare lens coatings make up for it, ensuring clear visibility.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• High durability for rugged use

• Clear lens coating for visibility

• Versatile mounting options for different firearms

• Compact and lightweight for tactical scenarios

• 10 brightness levels for adaptability

Cons:

• Smaller lens size may limit field of view

• Might be challenging to operate for beginners

10) Sig Sauer Romeo-MSR – Best All-Condition Red Dot Sight

Key Features

• Reticle Size: 2 MOA Dot

• Size/Weight: Compact, 4.9 oz

• Battery Life: Over 20,000 hours runtime

• Mounting Compatibility: MIL-STD 1913 Picatinny

• Brightness Settings: 10 daylight, 2 night vision

Although not the prettiest sight, the MSR is a performance powerhouse.

It caters to a broad spectrum of shooters, from self-defense to hunting and range shooting. The Romeo-MSR can do it all!

The sight has an impressive light transmission. Pair that with the contrast-rich dot, and you get a versatile red dot sight suitable for a wide range of environments and lighting conditions.

During my time testing the Romeo-MSR, I was impressed by its versatility.

The different brightness settings were perfect when stepping from indoor to outdoor settings.

The sight’s robust build also instilled confidence in me, assuring its ability to withstand harsh hunting environments and regular recoil exposure.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• High-performance lens coatings for clarity

• Compact size with robust construction

• Versatile brightness settings for different environments

• Waterproof and fog-proof for reliability

• Extended battery life for long-term use

Cons:

• Frequent battery changes may be required

• Not aesthetically pleasing

• Green dot may not suit all user preferences

11) STNGR Axiom II – Best Multi-Mount Red Dot Sight

Key Features

• Reticle Size: 2 MOA Dot for precise targeting

• Size/Weight: Compact with a weight of 3.8 oz

• Battery Life: Up to 50,000 hours on setting #6

• Mounting Compatibility: Includes QD Lower 1/3 co-witness mount and low-height mount; T-1/T-2 footprint

• Brightness Settings: 11 settings, including 9 daylight and 2 night vision

STNGR is kind of a dark horse in the world of red dot optics. Truth be told, their red dots are actually good.

The Axiom II is designed for shooters who value convenience and durability.

It has a robust construction and versatile mounting options, like a QD lower 1/3 co-witness.

Using the STNGR Axiom II was an enjoyable experience.

The sight picture remained crisp and clear in different lighting conditions, and its quick-detach feature allowed me to quickly switch between firearms and test it on different platforms.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Versatile mounting options included, eliminating additional purchases

• Durable 6061-T6 anodized aluminum housing for longevity

• Wide range of brightness settings for various lighting conditions

• Nitrogen-purged and sealed with 5 O-rings, offering excellent water and shock resistance

• Crisp, multi-coated glass for clear and sharp imagery

Cons:

• Limited to a 2 MOA dot, which all shooters may not prefer

• Slightly heavier compared to some ultra-lightweight models

Why You Should Use a Red Dot Sight

You’ve read all these reviews and wonder if a red dot sight is worth it. Well, here’s my two cents take on why you should use a red dot sight.

• Rapid Target Acquisition – Swift and efficient target acquisition – that’s what you’ll get from a red dot sight. The simplicity of placing a dot on the target and the ability to keep both eyes open greatly reduces aiming and shooting time.

• Accuracy – Red dots significantly enhance shooting accuracy. If you struggle with iron sights, you should use a red dot sight.

• Versatile – Shooting in different lighting conditions? Red dot sights can help with that. Their adjustable brightness settings make them very effective in all lighting conditions, from bright daylight to dark environments.

Conclusion

So, there you have it. After testing dozens of red dot sights, we concluded the Holosun HS507K-X2 to be the best.

However, each of these red dot sights excels in different shooting applications. The Holosun HS507K-X2 just provides the best all-round performance.