Best Binoculars Buying Guide in 2024 [All the Solutions in One Place]

Binoculars are optical devices that allow you to see distant objects more clearly and magnified. They are useful for various purposes, such as birdwatching, wildlife viewing, astronomy, sports, and sightseeing. However, not all binoculars are created equal, and there are many factors to consider before buying one.

In this guide, we will explain some of the most important aspects of binoculars, such as prism type, lens coatings, glass quality, water resistance, and more. We will also give you some tips on how to avoid common mistakes and pitfalls when choosing binoculars.

By the end of this guide, you should have a better idea of what to look for in a pair of binoculars that suits your needs and budget.

Comparison Among Hunting Binocular, Astronomy Binocular, Birding Binocular, Outdoor Activity Binocular, and Binocular for General Use

Purpose	Magnification	Objective Lens Diameter	Field of View	Other Features
Hunting	10x to 12x for long-range hunting, 8x to 10x for forested areas	Larger lenses for better light transmission and image quality	Narrower field of view for higher magnification	Waterproof, fog-proof, shock-resistant, tripod mountable
Astronomy	10x or higher for viewing planets and stars	50mm or larger for gathering more light and enhancing faint objects	Wider field of view for easier locating and tracking of celestial objects	Tripod compatible, image stabilizer, individual focus, long eye relief
Birding	8x for wider field of view and easier tracking, 10x for more detail and identification	32mm to 42mm for optimal balance of brightness, weight and size	At least 300 feet at 1000 yards for spotting and following birds	Waterproof, fog-proof, phase correction coating, close focus distance
Outdoor Activity	8x to 10x for general use , lower magnification for wider field of view and less shakiness on moving vehicles or boats	Smaller lenses (25mm to 28mm) for compactness and portability, larger lenses (35mm to 50mm) for better performance in low-light conditions	Depends on the activity and personal preference, but generally wider field of view is preferred for scanning landscapes and wildlife	Rubber coating, waterproof, fog-proof, adjustable eye cups, neck strap
General Use	7x to 10x for most situations, lower magnification for steadier images and wider field of view, higher magnification for more detail and distance	Depends on the intended use and personal preference, but generally 35mm to 50mm lenses offer a good balance of brightness, clarity and size	Depends on the magnification and lens size, but generally wider field of view is preferred for scanning large areas and locating objects	Glass lenses over plastic for better quality images, comfortable eyepieces, smooth focusing function, prism design (roof or porro) for image quality and durability

Specs vs Price

I want to give you some quizzes!

Consider Nikon Prostaff 3s model’s two products namely 8×42 and 10×42. The first model has 8 power magnification (8 times magnification) where the second model has 10 power magnification (10 times magnification). Which are the best binoculars?

The price difference between the two models are very negligible. If you compare the usability of these two models you’ll find the 8×42 model beats the 10×42 model in every way (other than the magnification)! This is because higher magnification doesn’t ensure better performance!

Okay that was an easily question. Now look at the specs of the two binoculars below and guess the most expensive model!

So what’s you take?

When you consider only the specs, you are likely to think Barska 8x42mm WP would cost more than Swarovski EL SwaroVision 8×32. Although they have very similar specs, the Barska 8x42mm WP has a better Field of View and minimum focus distance.

Interestingly, Barska 8x42mm WP costs about $350 whereas Swarovski EL SwaroVision 8×32 goes for over $2,200. Strange! Isn’t it?

But, why is that so?

Well, the features and specifications of a binocular don’t necessarily determine the price.

So, what determines price?

Binocular manufacturers are working around the clock to provide us with a perfect image. Some of the common problems the users experience are the loss of brightness and color, crispness, depth of field issues, fringing, and chromatic aberration. Many of these issues are compounded in challenging light environments such as in the shady woods or during sunrise/sunset.

Many of these issues can be solved or reduced, but that someone has to incur the cost.

There is no doubt that the binocular industry is indeed competitive, and there are many great companies and models on the market. Birding or hunting binoculars can cost anywhere between $100 and $3,000. Since the industry is very competitive, you get what you pay for.

Rule of thumb: the more money you are willing to spend, the better the performance you can expect!

However, like all rules of thumb, this ‘price rule’ isn’t always precise!

I have tested both Nikon Monarch 7 8×42 and Zeiss Terra ED 8×42. Nikon Monarch 7 8×42 features slightly better field of view and close focus distance whereas Zeiss Terra ED 8×42 features slightly better eye relief.

However in practice I didn’t notice any difference with field of view and eye relief between these two models. Moreover, Zeiss Terra ED 8×42 feels slightly more premium at hand than Nikon Monarch 7 8×42.

But Nikon Monarch 7 8×42 costs $80 extra ($480) than Zeiss Terra ED 8×42 ($400). So, here rules of thumb of ‘price rule’ is not precise at all.

***Attention: Most companies don’t reveal all the information customers need to know. These are not revealed so as not to lose a competitive advantage. For instance, Zeiss has been in business for a LONG time. They have perfected their engineering and coatings over many years and are not very willing to share their best practices with other companies!***

Deciding which binoculars to choose could be quite a daunting task. However, this binoculars buying guide should help you find the right pair of binoculars.

1. Alright, Let's Decide the prism of choice

The prism is the part of the binoculars that bends the light rays and makes the image appear upright and right-side up. There are two main types of prisms: roof prism and Porro prism.

a. Roof Prism vs. Porro Prism

Roof prism binoculars have a straight and sleek design, where the objective lenses (the ones facing the object) and the eyepieces (the ones facing your eyes) are aligned. They are more compact and lightweight than Porro prism binoculars, but they are also more expensive and complex to manufacture. Roof prism binoculars usually have a narrower field of view and less depth of field than Porro prism binoculars.

Porro prism binoculars have a zigzag shape, where the objective lenses and the eyepieces are offset. They are bulkier and heavier than roof prism binoculars, but they are also cheaper and simpler to make. Porro prism binoculars usually have a wider field of view and more depth of field than roof prism binoculars.

The choice between roof prism and Porro prism binoculars depends on your personal preference and intended use. If you value portability, durability, and aesthetics, you may prefer roof prism binoculars. If you value image quality, brightness, and affordability, you may prefer Porro prism binoculars.

b. Bak-4 Prism Vs BK-7 Prism

Another factor to consider when choosing the prism type is the material of the prism. The most common materials are Bak-4 and BK-7, which are both types of glass.

Bak-4 prisms are made of high-quality glass that has a high refractive index and low dispersion. This means that they can transmit more light and produce sharper and brighter images. Bak-4 prisms also have a round exit pupil, which is the small circle of light that you see when you look through the eyepiece. A round exit pupil ensures that you can see the entire image without any dark edges or vignetting.

BK-7 prisms are made of lower-quality glass that has a lower refractive index and higher dispersion. This means that they can transmit less light and produce dimmer and fuzzier images. BK-7 prisms also have a square exit pupil, which is the small rectangle of light that you see when you look through the eyepiece. A square exit pupil causes some of the image to be cut off and creates a tunnel vision effect.

The choice between Bak-4 and BK-7 prisms depends on your budget and quality standards. If you want the best image quality and clarity, you should choose Bak-4 prisms. If you are on a tight budget for binocular and can tolerate some image degradation, you can choose BK-7 prisms.

2. Pay attention to the important optical features that affect quality

The prism is not the only factor that affects the quality of the image that you see through the binoculars. There are also other optical features that you should pay attention to, such as lens coatings, glass quality, and phase correction.

a. Anti-Reflection Lens Coatings

Lens coatings are thin layers of material that are applied to the surface of the lenses to reduce the amount of light that is reflected or scattered. This improves the light transmission, contrast, and color fidelity of the image. Lens coatings also protect the lenses from scratches, dust, and moisture.

There are different types and levels of lens coatings, depending on the number and quality of the layers. The most common types are:

Coated: One or more surfaces of the lenses have a single layer of coating.
Fully coated: All air-to-glass surfaces of the lenses have a single layer of coating.
Multi-coated: One or more surfaces of the lenses have multiple layers of coating.
Fully multi-coated: All air-to-glass surfaces of the lenses have multiple layers of coating.

The more and better the lens coatings, the higher the light transmission and image quality. However, the more and better the lens coatings, the more expensive the binoculars. The best binoculars have fully multi-coated lenses, which can transmit up to 95% of the light and produce bright and vivid images.

b. Extra Low Dispersion (ED) Glass

Glass quality is another factor that affects the image quality of the binoculars. Glass quality refers to the purity and composition of the glass, which determines how well it can bend and focus the light rays. One of the problems that can arise from low-quality glass is chromatic aberration, which is the distortion of colors and details due to the different wavelengths of light being refracted differently.

To reduce chromatic aberration, some binoculars use extra low dispersion (ED) glass, which is a type of glass that has a low dispersion and a high refractive index. This means that it can bend and focus the light rays more accurately and evenly, resulting in sharper and clearer images. ED glass also enhances the contrast and color fidelity of the image, making it more realistic and natural.

ED glass is usually found in high-end binoculars, as it is more expensive and difficult to produce than regular glass. However, the benefits of ED glass are worth the extra cost, especially if you are looking for the best image quality and resolution.

c. Phase Correction Capacity

Phase correction is another feature that improves the image quality of the binoculars, especially for roof prism binoculars. Phase correction refers to the ability of the binoculars to correct the phase shift that occurs when the light rays pass through the roof prism. Phase shift is the misalignment of the light waves that causes the image to lose contrast and sharpness.

To correct the phase shift, some roof prism binoculars use phase correction coatings, which are special coatings that are applied to the prism surface to restore the alignment of the light waves. Phase correction coatings enhance the contrast and resolution of the image, making it more detailed and crisp.

Phase correction coatings are usually found in high-quality roof prism binoculars, as they are more expensive and complex to apply than regular coatings. However, the benefits of phase correction coatings are worth the extra cost, especially if you are looking for the best image quality and clarity.

3. Check out Water-Resistant (or whether-resistant) Vs Waterproofing Spec

Water resistance is another feature that you should consider when buying binoculars, especially if you plan to use them in wet or humid conditions. Water resistance refers to the ability of the binoculars to resist water penetration and damage. There are different levels of water resistance, depending on the design and construction of the binoculars. The most common levels are:

Water-resistant: The binoculars can withstand light rain or splashes, but not submersion or heavy rain.
Weather-resistant: The binoculars can withstand moderate rain or snow, but not submersion or extreme weather.
Waterproof: The binoculars can withstand submersion in water up to a certain depth and duration, usually specified by the manufacturer.

Waterproof binoculars are usually more durable and reliable than water-resistant or weather-resistant binoculars, as they have a better seal and protection against water and moisture. Waterproof binoculars also prevent fogging, which is the condensation of water vapor inside the binoculars that causes the image to blur. Fogging can occur when the binoculars are exposed to sudden changes in temperature or humidity, such as going from a warm car to a cold outdoor environment.

To prevent fogging, some waterproof binoculars use nitrogen or argon gas to fill the interior of the binoculars, creating a dry and inert atmosphere. This prevents the formation of water droplets and keeps the image clear and bright. Nitrogen or argon gas also prevents the growth of fungus and mold, which can damage the optics and affect the image quality.

The choice between water-resistant, weather-resistant, and waterproof binoculars depends on your intended use and environment. If you use your binoculars in dry and mild conditions, you may not need a high level of water resistance. However, if you use your binoculars in wet and harsh conditions, you may want to invest in a waterproof and fog-proof pair of binoculars.

The Biggest Mistakes Newbies Make While Buying Binoculars

Buying binoculars can be a daunting task, especially if you are new to the world of optics and don’t know what to look for. There are many factors to consider, such as magnification, objective lens diameter, prism type, lens coatings, glass quality, water resistance, and more. However, there are also some common mistakes and pitfalls that you should avoid when choosing binoculars. Here are some of the biggest mistakes that newbies make while buying binoculars, and how to avoid them.

1: Buying a Low-Cost Binoculars

One of the biggest mistakes that newbies make while buying binoculars is going for the cheapest option available,

2: Going for Too Powerful Magnification

Another common mistake that newbies make while buying binoculars is going for the highest magnification possible, thinking that it will give them the best view of the object. However, this is not always the case, as higher magnification also comes with some drawbacks, such as:

Reduced field of view: The higher the magnification, the narrower the field of view, which is the area that you can see through the binoculars. A narrow field of view makes it harder to locate and follow the object, especially if it is moving or far away.
Reduced brightness: The higher the magnification, the lower the brightness, which is the amount of light that reaches your eyes through the binoculars. A low brightness makes the image appear dim and dull, especially in low-light conditions.
Reduced stability: The higher the magnification, the more sensitive the binoculars are to hand movements and vibrations. A slight shake or tremor can cause the image to blur and distort, making it hard to focus and observe the object.

The optimal magnification for binoculars depends on your intended use and personal preference. However, a general rule of thumb is to choose a magnification that is between 7x and 10x, as this range offers a good balance between image quality, field of view, brightness, and stability. If you need more magnification, you can use a tripod or a monopod to stabilize the binoculars and reduce the effects of hand movements and vibrations.

3: Buying Cheap Zoom Binoculars

Zoom binoculars are binoculars that have a variable magnification, which means that you can adjust the power of the binoculars to zoom in or out on the object. This may sound like a convenient and versatile feature, but it also comes with some disadvantages, such as:

Reduced image quality: The higher the zoom, the lower the image quality, as the lenses have to compromise on optical performance to achieve the zoom range. Zoom binoculars often have lower light transmission, contrast, and resolution than fixed-power binoculars.
Reduced field of view: The higher the zoom, the narrower the field of view, which is the area that you can see through the binoculars. A narrow field of view makes it harder to locate and follow the object, especially if it is moving or far away.
Reduced eye relief: The higher the zoom, the shorter the eye relief, which is the distance between the eyepiece and your eye. A short eye relief makes it uncomfortable to use the binoculars, especially if you wear glasses or sunglasses.

Zoom binoculars are usually cheaper and lower quality than fixed-power binoculars, as they have to sacrifice some optical performance and durability to achieve the zoom range. Zoom binoculars are also more prone to mechanical failure and misalignment, as they have more moving parts and complexity than fixed-power binoculars. Unless you have a specific need for zoom binoculars, you are better off choosing a fixed-power pair of binoculars that has a good magnification and image quality.

4: Buying a Binocular with Built-In Digital Camera

Another tempting but problematic feature that some binoculars have is a built-in digital camera, which allows you to take photos or videos of the object that you are viewing. This may sound like a fun and convenient way to capture and share your observations, but it also has some drawbacks, such as:

Reduced image quality: The camera quality of binoculars is usually inferior to that of a dedicated digital camera or smartphone, as the binoculars have to compromise on sensor size, resolution, and lens quality to fit the camera inside. The camera quality of binoculars is also affected by the magnification, as the higher the magnification, the lower the camera resolution and the more shaky the image.
Reduced battery life: The camera function of binoculars consumes a lot of battery power, which reduces the battery life of the binoculars. This means that you may run out of battery when you need it the most, or that you have to carry extra batteries or a power bank with you.
Reduced ease of use: The camera function of binoculars adds some complexity and weight to the binoculars, which makes them harder to use and carry. You also have to deal with the camera settings, storage, and transfer of the photos or videos, which may distract you from the actual viewing experience.

Binoculars with built-in digital cameras are usually more expensive and lower quality than regular binoculars, as they have to sacrifice some optical performance and durability to fit the camera inside. Binoculars with built-in digital cameras are also more likely to malfunction or break, as they have more electronic components and complexity than regular binoculars. Unless you have a specific need for binoculars with built-in digital cameras, you are better off choosing a regular pair of binoculars and using a separate digital camera or smartphone to take photos or videos.

5: Don’t be seduced by inexpensive top-end specs

Some binoculars may boast impressive specifications, such as high magnification, large objective lens diameter, or wide field of view, but still be cheap and low quality. This is because these specifications are not the only factors that determine the quality of the binoculars, and they may come at the expense of other important aspects, such as:

Optical quality: The optical quality of the binoculars depends on the quality of the glass, the lens coatings, the prism type, and the phase correction. These factors affect the light transmission, contrast, color fidelity, and resolution of the image. Cheap and low-quality binoculars may use inferior glass, poor lens coatings, low-grade prisms, or no phase correction, which result in dim, dull, and blurry images.
Mechanical quality: The mechanical quality of the binoculars depends on the quality of the materials, the construction, and the design. These factors affect the durability, reliability, and ease of use of the binoculars. Cheap and low-quality binoculars may use flimsy materials, sloppy construction, or faulty design, which result in fragile, unstable, and uncomfortable binoculars.
Additional features: The additional features of the binoculars depend on the quality of the technology, the functionality, and the convenience. These factors affect the performance, versatility, and enjoyment of the binoculars. Cheap and low-quality binoculars may lack or have poor additional features, such as water resistance, fog-proofing, rubber coating, eye relief, diopter adjustment, or tripod mount, which result in limited, problematic, and unpleasant binoculars.

Don’t be fooled by the impressive specifications of cheap and low-quality binoculars, as they may not reflect the actual quality of the binoculars. Instead, look for binoculars that have a good balance between the specifications, the optical quality, the mechanical quality, and the additional features, and that suit your needs and budget.

6: Look at construction materials

The construction materials of the binoculars are another factor that you should consider when buying binoculars, as they affect the weight, durability, and comfort of the binoculars. The most common materials used for binoculars are:

Metal: Metal is a strong and durable material that can withstand impacts and wear and tear. However, metal is also heavy and cold, which makes it less comfortable to use and carry. Metal binoculars are usually more expensive and higher quality than other binoculars, as they have better optical and mechanical performance.
Plastic: Plastic is a light and cheap material that can reduce the weight and cost of the binoculars. However, plastic is also weak and brittle, which makes it more prone to breakage and damage. Plastic binoculars are usually less expensive and lower quality than other binoculars, as they have worse optical and mechanical performance.
Rubber: Rubber is a soft and flexible material that can provide a good grip and protection for the binoculars. Rubber can also absorb shocks and vibrations, and prevent water and dust from entering the binoculars. Rubber binoculars are usually more comfortable and durable than other binoculars, as they have better water resistance and fog-proofing.

The choice of construction materials for binoculars depends on your preference and usage. If you value strength and quality, you may prefer metal binoculars. If you value lightness and affordability, you may prefer plastic binoculars. If you value comfort and durability, you may prefer rubber binoculars.

7: Eye-cups

Eye-cups are the parts of the binoculars that surround the eyepieces and touch your eyes or glasses. Eye-cups are important for the comfort and image quality of the binoculars, as they affect the eye relief and the exit pupil. Eye relief is the distance between the eyepiece and your eye, and exit pupil is the diameter of the light beam that enters your eye. Eye-cups help you adjust the eye relief and the exit pupil to match your eyesight and viewing conditions.

There are different types of eye-cups, depending on the shape and the mechanism. The most common types are:

Fold-down eye-cups: Fold-down eye-cups are eye-cups that can be folded down or up to adjust the eye relief. Fold-down eye-cups are usually made of rubber or plastic, and are simple and easy to use. However, fold-down eye-cups may not have enough eye relief for glasses wearers, and may not have precise or stable adjustments.
Twist-up eye-cups: Twist-up eye-cups are eye-cups that can be twisted up or down to adjust the eye relief. Twist-up eye-cups are usually made of metal or plastic, and are more advanced and versatile than fold-down eye-cups. Twist-up eye-cups can provide more eye relief for glasses wearers, and can have more precise and stable adjustments.
Pop-up eye-cups: Pop-up eye-cups are eye-cups that can be popped up or down to adjust the eye relief. Pop-up eye-cups are usually made of metal or plastic, and are similar to twist-up eye-cups. Pop-up eye-cups can also provide more eye relief for glasses wearers, and can have more precise and stable adjustments.

The choice of eye-cups for binoculars depends on your preference and eyesight. If you don’t wear glasses and don’t need much eye relief, you may be fine with fold-down eye-cups. If you wear glasses or need more eye relief, you may want to choose twist-up or pop-up eye-cups.

8: Diopter adjustment mechanism

Diopter adjustment mechanism is the part of the binoculars that allows you to adjust the focus of each eyepiece individually, to compensate for the differences in your eyesight. Diopter adjustment mechanism is important for the image quality and clarity of the binoculars, as it helps you achieve a sharp and balanced image for both eyes.

There are different types of diopter adjustment mechanisms, depending on the location and the operation. The most common types are:

Center diopter adjustment: Center diopter adjustment is a diopter adjustment mechanism that is located on the center focus wheel of the binoculars. Center diopter adjustment is usually operated by pulling or pushing the center focus wheel.

9: Ploys and tricks

Some binoculars may use ploys and tricks to attract buyers, such as exaggerated claims, misleading labels, or fake reviews. These ploys and tricks are designed to make the binoculars seem better than they actually are, or to hide their flaws and defects. Some of the common ploys and tricks are:

Exaggerated claims: Some binoculars may claim to have unrealistic or impossible specifications, such as magnifications of 20x or more, objective lens diameters of 100mm or more, or fields of view of 300 degrees or more. These claims are either false or misleading, as they do not reflect the actual performance or quality of the binoculars. They may also imply that higher numbers are always better, which is not true, as higher magnifications, objective lens diameters, or fields of view may also have drawbacks, such as reduced brightness, stability, or eye relief.
Misleading labels: Some binoculars may use labels that sound impressive or professional, but are actually meaningless or deceptive. For example, some binoculars may use terms like “HD”, “ED”, “APO”, or “IS” to imply that they have high-definition, extra-low dispersion, apochromatic, or image-stabilized optics, when in fact they do not. These terms are not standardized or regulated, and they may not reflect the actual quality or features of the binoculars. They may also confuse or mislead buyers who are not familiar with the technical jargon or the optical principles behind these terms.
Fake reviews: Some binoculars may have fake reviews that are written by the sellers, the manufacturers, or paid reviewers, to boost their ratings, rankings, or sales. These reviews may be overly positive, biased, or dishonest, and they may not reflect the actual experience or opinion of the users. They may also use generic or vague language, or copy and paste from other sources, to avoid detection or verification. Fake reviews may also outnumber or drown out the genuine reviews, making it harder for buyers to find reliable and trustworthy information.

Don’t be fooled by the ploys and tricks of some binoculars, as they may not reflect the actual quality or value of the binoculars. Instead, look for binoculars that have realistic and verifiable specifications, clear and accurate labels, and genuine and honest reviews, and that suit your needs and budget.

What to Look for in a Pair of Binoculars

Now that you know what to avoid when buying binoculars, let’s look at what to look for in a pair of binoculars. There are several factors that you should consider when choosing binoculars, such as magnification, objective lens diameter, field of view, eye relief, exit pupil, close focus distance, eye strain, ergonomics, and more. Here are some of the most important aspects of binoculars that you should pay attention to, and how they affect your viewing experience.

Magnification and Objective Lens Diameter

Magnification and objective lens diameter are the two numbers that are usually written on the binoculars, such as 8×42, 10×50, or 12×25 are the numbers on binocular. Magnification is the number that indicates how much the binoculars enlarge the object that you are viewing, and objective lens diameter is the number that indicates the size of the lenses that face the object that you are viewing.

Magnification and objective lens diameter are important for the image quality and brightness of the binoculars, as they affect how much detail and light you can see through the binoculars. However, they also have some trade-offs, such as:

Higher magnification means more detail, but also narrower field of view, lower brightness, and less stability.
Lower magnification means less detail, but also wider field of view, higher brightness, and more stability.
Larger objective lens diameter means more light, but also heavier and bulkier binoculars.
Smaller objective lens diameter means less light, but also lighter and more compact binoculars.

The optimal magnification and objective lens diameter for binoculars depend on your intended use and personal preference. However, a general rule of thumb is to choose a magnification that is between 7x and 10x, and an objective lens diameter that is between 30mm and 50mm, as this range offers a good balance between image quality, brightness, and portability.

Field of View

Field of view is the area that you can see through the binoculars, usually measured in degrees or feet at 1000 yards. Field of view is important for the ease of use and enjoyment of the binoculars, as it affects how much of the scene you can capture and follow through the binoculars.

Field of view is inversely proportional to magnification, which means that the higher the magnification, the narrower the field of view, and vice versa. A narrow field of view makes it harder to locate and track the object, especially if it is moving or far away, while a wide field of view makes it easier to find and follow the object, especially if it is close or large.

The optimal field of view for binoculars depends on your intended use and personal preference. However, a general rule of thumb is to choose a field of view that is between 5 and 8 degrees, or between 250 and 400 feet at 1000 yards, as this range offers a good balance between detail and coverage.

Eye Relief

Eye relief is the distance between the eyepiece and your eye, where you can see the full image without any dark edges or vignetting. Eye relief is important for the comfort and image quality of the binoculars, as it affects how close or far you have to hold the binoculars to your eyes, and how much of the image you can see through the binoculars.

Eye relief is especially important for glasses wearers, as they need more eye relief than non-glasses wearers, to accommodate the space between their eyes and the lenses of their glasses. If the eye relief is too short for glasses wearers, they may not be able to see the full image, or they may have to remove their glasses, which may affect their vision and focus.

The optimal eye relief for binoculars depends on your eyesight and preference. However, a general rule of thumb is to choose an eye relief that is at least 15mm, or more if you wear glasses, as this range offers a good balance between comfort and image quality.

Exit Pupil

Exit pupil is the diameter of the light beam that enters your eye through the binoculars, usually measured in millimeters. Exit pupil is important for the brightness and ease of use of the binoculars, as it affects how much light reaches your eye, and how well you can align your eye with the binoculars.

Exit pupil is calculated by dividing the objective lens diameter by the magnification, which means that the higher the magnification or the smaller the objective lens diameter, the smaller the exit pupil, and vice versa. A small exit pupil makes the image appear dim and dull, especially in low-light conditions, while a large exit pupil makes the image appear bright and vivid, especially in bright conditions.

The optimal exit pupil for binoculars depends on your viewing conditions and preference. However, a general rule of thumb is to choose an exit pupil that is between 2 and 5mm, as this range offers a good balance between brightness and portability.

Close Focus Distance

Close focus distance is the minimum distance that the binoculars can focus on an object, usually measured in feet or meters. Close focus distance is important for the versatility and enjoyment of the binoculars, as it affects how close you can get to the object that you are viewing.

Close focus distance is especially important for viewing small or nearby objects, such as birds, insects, flowers, or art. If the close focus distance is too long for these objects, you may not be able to see them clearly or at all, or you may have to move away from them, which may disturb them or reduce your viewing angle.

The optimal close focus distance for binoculars depends on your intended use and preference. However, a general rule of thumb is to choose a close focus distance that is less than 10 feet, or less if you want to view very small or very close objects.

Eye Strain

Eye strain is the discomfort or fatigue that you may feel in your eyes after using the binoculars for a long time, usually caused by excessive or improper use of the binoculars. Eye strain is important for the health and enjoyment of the binoculars, as it affects how long and how well you can use the binoculars.

Eye strain can be caused by several factors, such as:

Poor image quality: If the image quality of the binoculars is poor, you may have to strain your eyes to see the details or colors of the object, or to adjust the focus or alignment of the binoculars. Poor image quality can be caused by low-quality optics, improper settings, or external factors, such as dust, fog, or glare.
High magnification: If the magnification of the binoculars is too high, you may have to strain your eyes to keep the image steady and clear, or to follow the movement of the object. High magnification can also reduce the brightness and the field of view of the image, which can make it harder to see the object or the surroundings.
Long viewing time: If you use the binoculars for a long time without taking breaks, you may have to strain your eyes to maintain the focus and clarity of the image, or to cope with the changing light conditions. Long viewing time can also cause your eyes to dry out, itch, or burn, which can affect your vision and comfort.

The best way to prevent or reduce eye strain is to choose binoculars that have good image quality, appropriate magnification, and comfortable eye relief, and to use them properly and moderately. You should also take regular breaks, blink often, and adjust the settings and the position of the binoculars to suit your eyes and the environment.

Ergonomics

Ergonomics is the design and the feel of the binoculars, which affects how easy and comfortable they are to use and hold. Ergonomics is important for the ease of use and enjoyment of the binoculars, as it affects how well you can operate and control the binoculars.

Ergonomics can be influenced by several factors, such as:

Size and weight: The size and weight of the binoculars affect how easy and comfortable they are to carry and hold. Larger and heavier binoculars may offer better image quality and brightness, but they may also be more cumbersome and tiring to use. Smaller and lighter binoculars may offer more portability and convenience, but they may also be less durable and stable.
Shape and grip: The shape and grip of the binoculars affect how easy and comfortable they are to handle and adjust. Binoculars that have a curved and smooth shape, and a rubber or textured coating, may offer a better grip and protection for the binoculars. Binoculars that have a straight and angular shape, and a metal or plastic coating, may offer a more sleek and durable look for the binoculars.
Focus and diopter: The focus and diopter of the binoculars affect how easy and comfortable they are to focus and align. Binoculars that have a large and smooth focus wheel, and a convenient and precise diopter adjustment, may offer a better focus and alignment for the binoculars. Binoculars that have a small and stiff focus wheel, and a hidden or coarse diopter adjustment, may offer a more compact and simple look for the binoculars.

The optimal ergonomics for binoculars depend on your preference and usage. However, a general rule of thumb is to choose binoculars that have a good balance between size and weight, shape and grip, and focus and diopter, and that suit your hands and eyes.

To conclude, a binocular buying guide is a useful and informative piece of content that can help you choose the best pair of binoculars for your needs and preferences. A binocular buying guide should cover the following aspects of binoculars:

The prism type, which affects the design and image quality of the binoculars.
The optical features, such as lens coatings, glass quality, and phase correction, which affect the light transmission, contrast, and resolution of the image.
The water resistance, which affects the durability and reliability of the binoculars.
The common mistakes and pitfalls that you should avoid when buying binoculars, such as buying cheap, high-powered, or gimmicky binoculars.
The important factors that you should look for in a pair of binoculars, such as magnification, objective lens diameter, field of view, eye relief, exit pupil, close focus distance, eye strain, and ergonomics.

By following this guide, you should be able to find a pair of binoculars that suits your budget, your usage, and your enjoyment. Remember, the best binoculars are not necessarily the most expensive or the most impressive ones, but the ones that meet your expectations and requirements. Happy viewing!

What is the Outlet Diameter of a Binocular?

Outlet diameter, also known as the binocular objective lens diameter, is the diameter of the farthest lens from your eye. A 8×40 binocular has an objective lens of 40 mm (the second number). The larger the lens, the more light the binocular can gather to produce brighter image.

What is Exit Distance of a Binocular?

In case you are holding your binocular a distance away from your eyes and towards the sky, you will see a little bright circle that forms in the middle of each eyepiece to its fullest form. This distance that you have taken the binocular in order to see this “circle” is the exit distance. It is popularly known as ‘eye relief’ and is the distance from the binocular eyepiece lens to your eyes where you will get the best image without eye strain. Those who wear eyeglasses will need a larger exit distance.

What is the Exit Pupil of a Binocular?

This refers to the diameter of the light beam that leaves the eyepiece if you hold your binocular with its objective lens pointed towards the source of light source (It is the diameter of the light circle that is formed when you determine your “exit distance” on your binocular) as we have seen above.

What is Field of view (FOV) of a Binocular?

This is the area of sky or even land that can be seen through your set of binoculars. It is often determined by the type of design of the binocular’s optics. FOV can be expressed as the width (feet) in 1000 yards or in degrees of the field of view.

What is BAK-4 Prism of a Binocular?

Prisms serve as mirrors. They reflect the incoming ray of light between the objectives and the eyepieces in order to invert the image projected by the objective lenses. When the image is inverted you get to see the exact object that you are viewing as it is. We have two types of prism that binoculars use namely the BK-7 and the BaK-4. The BaK-4 is preferred over BK-7 since they’ve got a higher refractive index with brighter and well-defined images.

What is FMC Lens?

Fully multi-coated (FMC) lenses are high-end optics with multiple coatings on their surfaces. FMC doesn’t guarantee top quality but are good indicators of a great binocular set. An FMC 8 x 35mm binocular may perform better than a normally coated set of binoculars that stands at 8 x 42mm.

Why do Binoculars use Green Coatings?

It is used to eliminate the red light effect from the image. This will reduce any apparent chromatic aberration. They also give images the blue-green cast. Nonetheless, some green coating will not give you the clear type image that you may need.

What is the Caliber of a Binocular?

This simply refers to the type or the level of binocular compared to the other sets of binoculars in the market. A higher caliber will have better features than a lower caliber binocular. We can even say that an FMC 8x42mm caliber is better than a normal 8x42mm caliber binocular.

What is a Range Finder of a Binocular?

A binoculars range calculator also works as a rangefinder. It helps you to determine the distances to objects that you are focusing on. However, it works better if you already know what the object’s height is.

What is a Binocular’s Diopter?

The diopter is the adjustable control knob that’s found on your binocular just right around the frame. The diopter is designed to allow you to compensate for the differences in sight levels between your two eyes so that you can see the image as it is. In order to use the diopter, you will look at the object through your left eyepiece using your left eye then rotate the binocular’s focusing ring until a sharp image can be seen through it. Do the same with the right lens and the right eye. Then use the binocular once to view through.

What is the maximum weight that a binocular strap can support?

The weight capacity of binocular straps varies based on their design and materials. It’s essential to check the specifications provided by the manufacturer to ensure that the binocular strap is properly attached and can support the weight of your binoculars.

What is the Center Focus Knob in a Binocular?

The center focus knob in a binocular is what you use to easily focus both barrels of your binocular at the very same time. It is important to know how to focus your binocular correctly.

What is a Spotting Scope?

Spotting Scope is a type of compact telescope that is basically designed mostly for terrestrial observing. It is good for applications that will involve greater magnifications which are beyond the range of any typical binocular. Some binoculars spot this type of telescope.

What is a Binocular’s Aperture?

The word “aperture” comes from Latin word “aperire” which means “to open.” It is one of the most vital specifications of any binoculars that are used for astronomical observations. The aperture usually represents the diameter the objective lenses. A binocular that stands at 7×50 have 50 mm objective lenses in diameter which is also the aperture.

What Does Baffling Mean in Binoculars?

Baffling shields against any stray light and even internal reflections. It can dramatically improve the image contrast.