Best Red Dot for AR-15 [2026]: Budget to Premium
From $100 budget picks to $900 Aimpoints, we rank the best red dot sights for AR-15 rifles based on real-world testing, durability, and value.
Choosing the Right AR-15 Red Dot
Your AR-15 red dot choice depends on intended use. Home defense, range plinking, competition, and duty each have different requirements for dot size, battery life, and durability. Here is our breakdown after testing 12 red dots on multiple AR platforms.
Best Overall: Aimpoint PRO
The Aimpoint PRO offers genuine military-grade durability with a 30,000-hour battery life on a single AA battery. The 2 MOA dot is crisp and the optical clarity is excellent. At $449, it is the sweet spot between budget and premium.
Best Budget: SIG Romeo 5
At $119, the SIG Romeo 5 is the best value in AR-15 red dots. MOTAC shake-awake technology, 2 MOA dot, and included risers make this a complete package for budget-conscious shooters.
Best Premium: Aimpoint CompM5s
The CompM5s is what special operations units carry. At $899 it is expensive, but you get AAA battery compatibility, 50,000-hour runtime, and night vision compatibility in a package that weighs just 2.9 ounces.
Quick Comparison
- Aimpoint PRO — $449, 30K hours, 2 MOA, 7.8 oz
- SIG Romeo 5 — $119, 40K hours, 2 MOA, 5.1 oz
- Aimpoint CompM5s — $899, 50K hours, 2 MOA, 2.9 oz
- Holosun 510C — $309, 50K hours, 2/65 MOA, 7.7 oz
- EOTech EXPS3 — $699, 600 hours, 1/68 MOA, 11.2 oz