Dye and Empire are two of the best-known makers of Paintball Masks. We have an in-depth look at two of their most popular models, the Dye i4 Paintball Mask vs the Empire X-Ray V2.1 Paintball Mask – which is the best for you?
Once you’ve seen how these 2 masks compare with each other, find out how they compare with the best paintball masks
Dye i4 vs Empire X-Ray Paintball Mask – Specifications
| Dye Precision i4 Paintball Goggle | Empire X-Ray V2.1 Thermal PROtector Goggle | |
|---|---|---|
 |  |
|
| Lens | Peripheral vision Toroidal Impact Lens Scratch-resistant UV Coating | Thermal scratch-resistant lens |
| Vision Angle | Vertical/Horizontal Peripheral Vision | 270-degree |
| Strap Security | Tiger Teeth buckles | Adjustable strap |
| Wireless Capability | N/A | N/A |
| Comfort | Dual stage foam | Hypo-allergenic foam |
| Key Features and Design | Lightweight First Compound Radius Lens Anatomic Fit and Function Compression Formed Ears Scream Multi-Directional Venting Rapid Lens Change | Anti-scratch, thermal lens Adjustable chin strap Removable Visor Multiple Venting |
| Size Options | One Size | One Size |
| Width | 9.1" | 9" |
| Length | 7.1" | 9" |
| Weight | 1.1lbs | 2.45lbs |
| Certification | ASTM Certified | N/A |
| Color Options | Black Dirty Bird Grey Liquid | Black |
| Warranty | 1-year | 30-Day Limited Warranty |
| Cost (amazon.com) |
Quick Summary
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Dye – Who Are They?
DYE Precision is a paintball manufacturing company based in California, founded in 1994 by Dave and Rhonda DeHaan (DYE stands for Dave “Youngblood” Enterprises). Initially producing barrels for markers, using Dave’s garage as a workshop, DYE became an international business, manufacturing a range of markers, loaders, playing & casual clothing, protective gear, goggles, and luggage.
Empire – Who Are They?
For more than ten years, Empire has been a staple in the paintball industry. The team has focused on building high-quality products rather than expanding too quickly and flooding the market with models that compete for customers’ attention (unlike many other brands). Now part of Kore Outdoor (known initially as G.I. Sportz), they continue to make products aimed at the higher-end of the paintball market.
Dye i4 vs Empire X-Ray Paintball Mask – Similarities
The Paintball Masks have the same size options
- Both the Dye i4 and the Empire X-Ray have the same size options: one size fits most.
Dye i4 vs Empire X-Ray Paintball Mask – Differences
Both Paintball Masks have different lens features
- The Dye i4 features a scratch-resistant lens with UV Coating.
- The Empire X-Ray is equipped with a thermal scratch-resistant lens.
Both masks have different vision angles
- The Empire X-Ray features 270-degrees of vision, while the Dye i4 Thermal Paintball Mask has vertical/horizontal peripheral vision.
Both Paintball Masks have different strap security features
- The Dye i4 Paintball Mask features “tiger teeth” buckles, while the Empire X-Ray has an adjustable strap.
Both masks have different foam padding for comfort
- The Dye i4 Thermal Paintball Mask uses dual-stage foam, while the Empire X-Ray V2.1 Paintball Mask uses hypo-allergenic foam.
- Both are designed to wick away sweat and moisture away while providing a comfortable fit for all.
The Paintball Masks both have different features and design
- The Dye i4 Thermal Paintball Mask is lightweight, with first compound radius lens, anatomic fit and function, compression formed ears, “scream” multi-directional venting & rapid lens change.
- The Empire X-Ray V2.1 Paintball Mask has an anti-scratch thermal lens, an adjustable chin strap, a removable visor & multiple venting.
Both masks have different widths
- The Dye i4 Thermal Paintball Mask is 9.1”, while the Empire X-Ray V2.1 Paintball Mask’s is narrower at 9”.
The masks both have different lengths
- The Empire X-Ray is 9”, while the Dye i4 is shorter at 7.1”.
Both Paintball Masks have different weights
- The Dye i4 Paintball Mask weighs 1.1lbs, while the Empire X-Ray Mask weighs 2.45lbs.
The masks both have different certifications
- The Dye is ASTM Certified, while the Empire X-Ray is not certified.
Both masks have different color options
- The Dye i4 is available in Black, Dirty Bird & Grey Liquid color options, while Empire has Black color options.
The masks both have different warranties
- The Dye is covered by a 1-year warranty, while the Empire X-Ray has a 30-Day limited warranty.
Conclusion
The Dye i5 Paintball Mask and Empire X-Ray have a fair share of similarities and differences. It might be challenging to choose between the two, so here are some notable facts that might help:
- The Empire X-Ray has an inferior warranty.
- If you’re concerned about ASTM certification, the Dye i4 is the better option.
- The Empire X-Ray is much heavier than the Dye i4.
- Though this might not be a huge concern, the Dye has a much wider choice of colors than the Empire X-Ray.
