Aimpoint Comp M4 vs M5

As an experienced shooter and weapons enthusiast, I know how important it is to have the right tools for the job.

The Aimpoint Comp M4 and M5 are two of the most widely used choices for red dot sights on the market. Both of these sights have become famous for their high standards of craftsmanship, toughness, and dependability, but which is best for your requirements?

I’ll compare the Aimpoint M4 and M5’s features, functionality, and general suitability for various shooting situations in this in-depth review.

You need a red dot sight that can meet your requirements, whether you’re an elite shooter, a member of security forces, or a casual shooter.

Join me as I examine the parallels and discrepancies between the Aimpoint Comp M4 and M5 to enable you to choose the sight that is best for you.

Core Specifications

	Aimpoint Comp M4	Aimpoint Comp M5
Material	Aluminum	Aluminum
Magnification	1X – No Magnification	1X – No Magnification
Clear Aperture	23 mm / 0.9 in	18 mm / 0.7 in
Optical Coating	Anti-Reflex Coating	Anti-Reflex Coating
Size L X W X H	5.3 x 3.0 x 3.2 in	3.3 x 2.1 x 2.8 in
Weight (With Mount)	13.3 oz	8.4 oz
Dot Size	2 MOA	2 MOA
NVD Compatible	Yes	Yes
Battery	AA, 1.5 – 5.0V, Alkaline / Lithium	AAA/LR3, Alkaline
Battery Life	80,000 h at setting 12 (15,000 Lux, room temperature)	50,000 h at daylight setting 7 (15,000 Lux, room temperature)
Brightness Setting	9 DL and 7 NV	6 DL and 4 NV
Eye Relief	Yes	Yes
Submersible	45 m / 150 ft	45 m / 150 ft
Mounting Solution	QRP2 Mount and Standard Spacer	LRP Mount and High Spacer (39 mm)

What’s The Difference Comp M4 and M5?

There are some significant differences between the Aimpoint Comp M4 and M5 red dot sights, even though both are top-notch red dot sights made for use with firearms.

The main difference between the Aimpoint Comp M4 and M5 is the more options for brightness settings in Aimpoint Comp m4 and a power source. Other differences between the Aimpoint Comp m4 and m5 are:

• The Aimpoint Comp M5, an updated model of the Aimpoint Comp M4, has a smaller body and a more accurate adjustment system.
• The Aimpoint Comp M4 uses an AA battery and can operate for up to 80,000 hours, whereas the Aimpoint Comp M5 uses a different battery and can operate for up to 50,000 hours.
• The Aimpoint Comp M5 is 3.3 inches long and 8.4 ounces in weight, while the Aimpoint Comp M4 is 5.3 inches long and 13.3 ounces in weight.
• The QRP2 mount is used by the Aimpoint Comp M5, while the LRP mount is used by the Aimpoint Comp M4.

Features Comparison Comp M4 vs M5

1. Durability

Both the M4 and M5 models of the Aimpoint Comp are built to be incredibly reliable and durable in a variety of shooting environments. Both sights are built with tough aluminum housing that is water-resistant, shockproof, and resistant to rough handling, frigid temperatures, and heavy recoil. 

The lenses are coated for superior clarity and transfer of light, and they are also made to be scratch-resistant. Both the M4 and M5 have tough construction, and a long battery life, and are made to be used in demanding shooting situations.

Winner: Draw

2. Reticle

The Aimpoint Comp M4 and M5 reticles are similar in appearance and operation. The well-known red dot reticle from Aimpoint is present on both sights, offering a distinct and simple-to-see aiming point in an assortment of lighting circumstances.

The dot size is the primary distinction between the M4 and M5 reticles. The Aimpoint Comp M4 has a 2 MOA dot, while the M5, depending on the model, has a 2 MOA or 4 MOA dot.

While the 4 MOA dot is easier to acquire and might be more suitable for tactical or close-range shooting, the 2 MOA dot is generally thought to be more precise, making it more appropriate for longer-range shooting.

Winner: Draw

3. Size and Weight

The Aimpoint Comp M4 and M5 are very similar to one another in terms of size and weight, with a few minor exceptions.

The M5 is a good option for use on less extensive firearms or for people who prioritize weight savings because, as you can see in the requirements chart, it is significantly lighter and more compact than the M4. 

The M4 is still a versatile option for a variety of firearms because it is still a small and light sight. It’s important to keep in mind that the weight and size of the sights will vary depending on the specific mounting system used and any added equipment. 

Winner: Aimpoint Comp M5

4. Lens and Glass Clarity

The Aimpoint Comp M4 and M5 both have high-quality lenses that offer outstanding sharpness and visibility. But there are some distinctions between the two models that might affect how well they perform in specific scenarios.

A multi-coated lens system on the Aimpoint Comp M4 offers excellent light transfer and clarity along with a 30mm objective lens with a 1x magnification. The red dot will stay on target irrespective of the shooter’s position of focus because the lenses are made to be parallax-free.

Depending on the model, the Aimpoint Comp M5 has a larger objective lens with a 1x magnification. A multi-layer anti-reflex coating is also a part of the lens system, which improves visibility and clarity.

The lenses of the M4 and M5 are made of premium glass that is made to last and resist scratches. The sights are water-resistant and can be used in a variety of weather conditions, and the lenses are also sealed to prevent fogging.

Winner: Draw

5. Power Source

Different power sources are used by the Aimpoint Comp M4 and M5, which might be a factor for some users. One AA battery powers the Aimpoint Comp M4 and can operate continuously for up to 80,000 hours at the lowest brightness level.

It is simple to replace the battery and doesn’t require any tools or specialized equipment.

On the other hand, the Aimpoint Comp M5 runs on a single AAA battery and can be used continuously for up to 50,000 hours at the lowest brightness level. The battery can be changed without using any tools and is accessible, just like the M4.

Both sights have energy-efficient electronics that contribute to longer battery life, and both are made to operate reliably even as the battery gets low.

Winner: Aimpoint Comp M4

6. Brightness Setting

The Aimpoint Comp M4 and M5 both have brightness settings that can be changed, allowing the shooter to customize the reticle brightness according to the lighting.

There are 16 brightness settings on the Aimpoint Comp M4, including 9 for use in daylight and 7 for use in low-light or nighttime situations. Additionally, the Aimpoint Comp M5 has 10 brightness settings, including 4 night vision settings and 6 daylight settings. 

Winner: Aimpoint Comp M4

7. Windage and Elevations

The Aimpoint Comp M4 and M5 both offer windage and elevation adjustments, enabling the shooter to modify the point of impact to their unique requirements. The Aimpoint Comp M4 and M5 have 1/2 MOA click adjustments for windage and elevation. The secure adjustment turret system is another feature shared by the M4 and M5, and it aids in preventing unintentional adjustments while in use. 

This can be especially helpful in high-stress or hurried shooting situations where unintentional adjustments might be a problem. The Aimpoint Comp M4 and M5 both offer precise and user-friendly elevation and windage adjustments that can be used to fine-tune the point of impact.

Winner: Draw

8. Warranty

The Aimpoint Comp M4 is covered by the company’s standard 10-year warranty, which addresses both manufacturing and material flaws. This guarantees that Aimpoint will repair or replace your Comp M4 for free if it develops a manufacturing flaw within 10 years of purchase.

The Aimpoint Comp M5, on the other hand, has a limited lifetime warranty. This means that if your Comp M5 malfunctions as a result of a manufacturing flaw at any point during the product’s lifetime,

Aimpoint will either repair or replace it. However, product abuse, misuse, or normal wear and tear are not covered by this warranty. It’s significant to remember that both warranties are constrained by a set of rules and regulations.

Winner: Draw

9. Price

The Aimpoint Comp M4 and M5 can be purchased for different prices depending on a variety of elements, including the retailer, the location, and the extras that come with the sight.

However, can change over time and depend on both your location and the particular retailer.

Winner: Aimpoint Comp M5

Pros Of Aimpoint Comp M4

Here are some of the pros of the Aimpoint Comp M4:

• The Comp M4 is made toughly and is designed to withstand harsh environments.
• The Comp M4’s battery life is impressive, lasting up to 80,000 hours.
• The 30mm objective lens offers a large field of view and quick target acquisition.
• The Comp M4 is compatible with every generation of night vision devices.
• The Comp M4 has been trusted by members of the military and law enforcement for many years.

Cons Of Aimpoint Comp M4

Here are some of the cons of the Aimpoint Comp M4:

• The Aimpoint Comp M4 is expensive.
• The Aimpoint Comp M4 is heavier than Aimpoint Comp M5.
• The Aimpoint Comp M4 may not be compatible with all types of mounting systems.
• The Aimpoint Comp M4 has a limited adjustment range.

Pros Of Aimpoint Comp M5

Here are some of the pros of the Aimpoint Comp M5:

• Compared to the Aimpoint Comp M4, the Aimpoint Comp M5 is smaller and lighter.
• The Aimpoint Comp M5 has a battery life of up to 50,000 hours.
• The Aimpoint Comp M5 offers a clear and crisp sight picture.
• The Aimpoint Comp M5 is less expensive than the Aimpoint Comp M4.

Cons Of Aimpoint Comp M5

Here are some of the cons of the Aimpoint Comp M5:

• The Aimpoint Comp M5 has a smaller objective lens than the Aimpoint Comp M4.
• The Aimpoint Comp M5’s battery life is longer than the Aimpoint Comp M4’s, despite its longer battery life.

Bottom Line

The Aimpoint Comp M4 and Comp M5 are both outstanding red dot sights that are built to last in any kind of condition. The Comp M4 is a battle-tested optic that has been employed by police and military officers for many years.

Compared to the Comp M5, it has a longer battery life and a bigger objective lens, which allows for a broader angle of view as well as quicker target acquisition. Additionally, it is built more robustly, making it more appropriate for use in challenging conditions.

The Comp M5, on the other hand, is a more recent model with a smaller size and lighter weight. Despite having a less-large objective lens, it still offers a sharp and clear sight picture.

Despite having a lower battery life than the Comp M4, it is still capable of running continuously for thousands of hours. It is a great choice for those looking for a top-of-the-line red dot sight without breaking the bank because it is also less costly than the Comp M4.

The Comp M4 is a better option if you need an optic that is incredibly tough and capable of withstanding the worst conditions. The Comp M5 is a great option if you want a compact and lightweight sight that still performs well.

FAQs

What is the battery life of the Aimpoint Comp M4?

80,000 hours of continuous use.

What is the price difference between the Aimpoint Comp M4 and M5?

The Aimpoint Comp M5 is generally more expensive than the M4.

What is the reticle type used in the Aimpoint Comp M4 and M5?

The Aimpoint Comp M4 and M5 both use the same reticle type, which is a 2 MOA dot. 

Are the Aimpoint Comp M4 and M5 waterproof?

Yes, both the Aimpoint Comp M4 and M5 are waterproof.

What is the warranty on the Aimpoint Comp M4 and M5?

The Aimpoint Comp M4 and M5 both come with a limited lifetime warranty.