Best binoculars wildlife viewing
Best Binoculars For Wildlife Viewing: Buyer's Guide And Reviews
A guide to choosing the best binoculars for wildlife viewing.
Page Index
- Introduction
- Recommended Binoculars For Wildlife Viewing: Top Picks
- Guide To Choosing The Best Binoculars For Wildlife Viewing
- Ideal Binocular Specifications For Wildlife Viewing
- Other Binocular Specifications
- Binoculars To Consider
Binoculars for Viewing Wildlife
A good pair of binoculars will bring you closer to wildlife!Watching wildlife is a hugely enjoyable hobby; not only does it provide you with memories to treasure, but it is also something you can do immediately, without any fancy equipment.
All you need is your eyes, your ears, and a love of the great outdoors!
With that being said, a good pair of binoculars will take your wildlife viewing to another level, whether you intend to watch birds, zebras or whales!
If you choose the right pair of binoculars at the start of your wildlife watching career, the added satisfaction they’ll provide over the years will pay back the initial cost many times over.
On this page you’ll find a useful guide to choosing the best binoculars for wildlife viewing, together with suggested models that you may want to consider.
Recommended Binoculars For Wildlife Viewing: Our Top Picks
Before we get into the buying guide, here are three proven binoculars suitable for wildlife viewing:
- Price Point: Low
Celestron Outland X 8×42 / 10×42 Binoculars
A good pair of inexpensive binoculars. You may never need to upgrade!
- Check price and reviews at Amazon
- Price Point: Mid-High Range
Hawke Frontier ED X 8 x 42 / 10 x 42 Binoculars
Superb clarity and build quality from a respected manufacturer. We use Frontier ED X 10x42s on most of our birding expeditions. Make no mistake, these are “pro” level binoculars; improvements beyond this price point become increasingly small.
- Check price and reviews at Amazon
- Price Point: High
Swarovski EL 8.
5 x 42 / 10×42 BinocularsThe best of the best? High-end binoculars from one of the world’s most respected optic brands. Superior image and build quality will have fellow nature lovers nodding in approval.
- Check price and reviews at Amazon
Guide To Choosing The Best Binoculars For Wildlife Viewing
There are two main factors you need to consider when selecting binoculars: magnification and objective lens diameter.
Luckily, there is a standard way of describing binoculars: the magnification is written first, followed by an ‘x’ multiplication symbol, followed the objective lens diameter.
For example, a pair of binoculars described as being 8 x 42 will have 8x magnification and 42mm objective lenses.
What Do These Figures Mean?
The magnification figure is easy to explain; it tells you how many times bigger the subject will appear through the binoculars.
The higher the number, the greater the magnification.
The objective lens diameter is the size of the rear lens (the lens furthest from the eyepiece) on each side of the binoculars.
The larger the objective lenses, the more light the binoculars can capture and the sharper the image will be.
Ideal Binocular Specification For Wildlife Viewing
Going birding? A good pair of binoculars is essential!After reading the above, you may be tempted to go out and buy binoculars with the highest magnification and biggest objective lenses you can find!
In most cases, that would be a mistake; you’d end up with binoculars that were far too heavy, and far too unstable, to be used in the field.
In general, the objective lens size determines how big (and heavy) your binoculars will be. This is something worth thinking about if your nature watching involves long hikes.
If space or weight is at a premium, then consider binoculars with an objective lens size of around 32mm, otherwise 40 or 42mm is (we feel) the ideal lens size for wildlife viewing.
Another thing to bear in mind is that inexpensive binoculars with a large objective lens size often produce a worse image than more expensive binoculars with a smaller lens size.
The downside to having a large magnification is that the higher the magnification, the harder it is to keep the image steady.
You may get a larger image, but your own movements will also be magnified, making it harder to pick out detail in the image.
In general, binoculars with a magnification of over 12x are difficult to hold steady and are best used with a tripod.
Additionally, the higher the magnification, the smaller the area you’ll be able to see through your binoculars.
This is fine if you’ve already found your subject and can keep it in view, but not so good if you’re trying to locate your subject while looking through your binoculars.
Imaging you’re looking up into the branches of a tree in the hope of seeing a bird that is singing.
Having a high magnification might mean that you get great, close-up images of the branches, but you might have difficulty actually locating the bird!
Recommended Magnification and Lens Size For Wildlife Viewing
So, what are the best binoculars for wildlife viewing?
As with many things in life, the key is finding a happy medium, so aim to get binoculars that will suit the majority of your wildlife viewing.
Binoculars with a magnification of either 8 or 10, and a lens size of 40 or 42, are generally considered to be the most suitable for viewing wildlife.
With these magnifications and lens sizes, most binoculars are light enough to be used for long sessions, and will provide the best balance between viewing area and magnification.
8x or 10x Binocular Magnification?
Go for 8x magnification if you regularly look at subjects that are either relatively close, fast moving, or difficult to spot.
Go for 10x magnification if you want more close-up detail at the expense of a (slightly) smaller viewing area and (slightly) less image stability, or if you look at subjects that tend to be quite far away.
Don’t lose too much sleep over the 8x / 10x decision! The difference between magnifications is small. We use 10x; many other birders / wildlife watchers use 8x!
Our recommended binoculars, below, are all within these recommended magnification and objective lens sizes.
Other Binocular Specifications
There are a few other factors you may want to consider when choosing your new binoculars. Listed below are some of the other figures commonly provided by manufacturers.
Field of View (FOV)
The field of view (FOV) of a pair of binoculars is the area covered by the image you can see through the lenses.
The FOV is usually given as an angle (the greater the angle, the greater the field of view).
Some manufacturers provide this measurement in feet or meters at a certain range (e.g. 138m at 1,000m, which means the area you’ll see through the eyepieces will be 138m wide at a range of 1,000 meters).
In general, the larger the magnification, the smaller the FOV.
Cheap binoculars with a large field of view may suffer from distortion at the edges of the image.
Eye Relief
Eye relief is the maximum distance your eye can be from the eyepiece and still see a fully-clear image. This is an important consideration for those who need to wear glasses while using their binoculars.
Those who wish to wear spectacles while using binoculars should aim for an eye relief measurement of at least 15 mm.
Many binoculars have adjustable eyepieces, which allow them to be used either with or without spectacles. Move them in if you don’t wear glasses, and out if you do.
Wearing glasses is generally not necessary when using binoculars, unless you suffer from astigmatism.
Close Focus / Closest Focus
This is simply the shortest distance at which a subject can be observed while remaining in focus. This isn’t the most important figure to consider when choosing a pair of binoculars, but you may want to bear it in mind if you’ll be using your binoculars to look at subjects that are close to you, such as wild flowers or insects.
IPD / Interpupillary Distance
This is the space between the centers of your pupils. The average person’s IPD is 64mm. If your eyes are spaced either very close together or very far apart, then check to see if the binoculars you are considering will match your IPD.
The Best Binoculars For Wildlife Viewing: Models To Consider
Now you have all the information you need to be able to select a suitable pair of binoculars. Below is a list of binoculars that you may want to consider.
All of the binoculars in the list below are either 8x or 10x magnification. Most models are available in either magnification; the binoculars you choose should reflect the type of wildlife viewing you are most likely to use them for.
The specs we’ve provided are for the model featured (i.e. 8x or 10x). You can click on the links to find the specification and price of the model in which you’re interested.
If you decide to make a purchase after using the links, we may receive a small commission.
Celestron – Outland X 10×42 Binoculars
A well-regarded pair of binoculars offering good value for money.
- Size: 146mm x 126mm x 53mm (5.75″ x 4.96″ x 2.08″)
- Weight: 21.8 oz (618 g)
Features:
- Multi-Coated Optics
- Waterproof and Fogproof
- Protective Rubber Covering
- Twist-up Eyecups for Quick Adjustment
(Source)
Get prices and see reviews at Amazon:
- Celestron – Outland X 8×42 Binoculars
- Celestron – Outland X 10×42 Binoculars
Celestron Nature DX 8×42 Binoculars
Good-looking mid-range binoculars with professional features.
- Size: 135mm x 126mm x 52mm (5.3″ x 4.9″ x 2″)
- Weight: 22.2 oz (629 g)
Features:
- Waterproof and fully rubber armored.
- Phase coated BaK-4 prisms for increased contrast and resolution.
- Fully multi-coated optics provide brighter images by increasing light transmission through the entire optical path.
- Close focus of 6.5 feet for viewing nearby subjects.
- Sturdy, twist-up eyecups with multiple stops.
- Eyeglass friendly with 17.5 mm of eye relief.
(Source)
Get prices and see reviews at Amazon:
- Celestron Nature DX 8×42 Binoculars
- Celestron Nature DX 10×42 Binoculars
Nikon Prostaff 3S 10×42 Binoculars
Good-quality mid-price binoculars from a trusted manufacturer of optical products.
- Size: 5.9 x 5.1 x 2.0 in. / 150 x 130 x 52 mm
- Weight: 575g/20.3oz
Features:
- Compact and lightweight
- Waterproof and fog-free
- Multilayer-coated lenses and high-reflectivity prism coating
(Source)
Get prices and see reviews at Amazon:
- Nikon Prostaff 3S 8×42 Binoculars
- Nikon Prostaff 3S 10×42 Binoculars
Vortex Optics Diamondback HD 8×42 Binoculars
Good quality binoculars for those wishing to spend a little more.
- Size: 5.1 x 5.7 inches / 130 x 145 mm
- Weight: 21.8 oz / 618 g
Features:
- Fully Multi-Coated Increase light transmission with multiple anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces.
- Ultra-hard, scratch-resistant coating protects exterior lenses from scratches, oil and dirt.
- Rubber Armor Provides a secure, non-slip grip, and durable external protection.
- Waterproof O-ring seals prevent moisture, dust and debris from penetrating the binocular for reliable performance in all environments.
- Fogproof Argon gas purging prevents internal fogging over a wide range of temperatures.
- Roof Prism Valued for greater durability and a more compact size.
- Adjustable Eyecups Twist up and down for comfortable viewing with or without eyeglasses.
(Source)
Get prices and see reviews at Amazon:
- Vortex Optics Diamondback HD Binoculars 8×42
- Vortex Optics Diamondback HD Binoculars 10 x 42
Hawke Frontier ED X Binoculars 8×42
Our pick of the bunch at this price point.
Spending more will only get you small improvements.
- Size: 5.5 x 4.1-4.8″ / 105-123 x 140 mm
- Weight: 24.4oz / 692g
Features:
- Extra-low Dispersion glass for optimum clarity
- Dielectric Coatings provide increased light reflectivity
- Fully Multi-Coated optics to produce sharp images
- Focus knob with 1.5 turn – close focus 6.6ft/2m
- High resolution Phase Corrected BAK-4 roof prisms
- Water repellent coating on objective lenses
- Lightweight rubber coated magnesium alloy chassis
- Stay-on lens covers for maximum lens protection
- Replaceable twist-up eye cups with position stops
(Source)
Get prices and see reviews at Amazon:
- Hawke Frontier ED X Binocular 8×42
- Hawke Frontier ED X Binocular 10×42
Nikon Monarch HG 10X42 Binoculars
High-quality, professional-level binoculars from a world-respected brand.
- Size: 5.7 x 5.2 in / 144.78 x 132.
08 mm - Weight: 24 oz. / 680g
Features:
- High-quality multilayer coating applied to all lenses and prisms to improve light transmission
- Highly reflective dielectric multilayer coating applied to the roof prism to enhance light reflection. (This produces an exceptionally bright view of up to 92% or higher light transmittance.)
- Durable magnesium alloy body
- Scratch-resistant lens coating
- Waterproof to a depth of up to 5 m for as long as 10 minutes.
- Nitrogen-filled body gives superior waterproof performance
- Internal fogging is prevented inside the optical system even in low-pressure environments up to an altitude of 5,000 m equivalent
- Turn-and-slide rubber eyecups make it easy to position your eyes at the correct eye-point.
- Integrated objective lens caps so you never need to worry about losing them.
(Source)
Get prices and see reviews at Amazon:
- Nikon Monarch HG 8X42 Binocular
- Nikon Monarch HG 10X42 Binocular
ZEISS Conquest HD 10×42 Binoculars
Together with Swarofski, Zeiss are perhaps the most well-respected manufacturers of binoculars today.
The Conquest HD will provide a lifetime of wildlife viewing pleasure.
- Size: 4.7 x 5.9 ” / 120 mm x 150 mm
- Weight: 28.0 oz (795 g)
Features:
- Compact size, low weight and robust body construction
- Higher definition glass produces 90% to-the-eye light transmission, great low-light performance and excellent target resolution across the entire magnification range.
- Coated lenses
- Large field of view
- Rotating, lockable eyecups
(Source)
Get prices and see reviews at Amazon:
- ZEISS Conquest HD 8×42
- ZEISS Conquest HD 10 x 42
Vortex Optics Razor HD Roof Prism 10×42 Binoculars
Ultra-high image quality and rugged construction. You’ll probably never need another pair of binoculars
- Size: 5.1 x 5.9 inches / 130 x 150 mm
- Weight: 24.8 oz / 703 g
Features:
- HD Lens Elements Premium extra-low dispersion glass delivers the ultimate in resolution and color fidelity, resulting in high-definition images.
- XR™ Plus Fully Multi-Coated Ultimate anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces provide maximum light transmission for peak clarity and the pinnacle of low-light performance.
- Dielectric Coating Multi-layer prism coatings provide bright, clear, color-accurate images.
- Roof Prism Valued for greater durability and a more compact size.
- Magnesium Chassis Decreases weight and increases strength.
- Waterproof O-ring seals prevent moisture, dust and debris from penetrating the binocular for reliable performance in all environments.
- Fogproof Argon gas purging prevents internal fogging over a wide range of temperatures.
- ArmorTek ® Ultra-hard, scratch-resistant coating protects exterior lenses from scratches, oil and dirt.
- Rubber Armor Provides a secure, non-slip grip, and durable external protection.
- Adjustable Eyecups Twist up and down for comfortable viewing with or without eyeglasses.
(Source)
Get prices and see reviews at Amazon:
- Vortex Optics Razor HD 8×42
- Vortex Optics Razor HD 10×42
Swarovski EL 10×42 Binoculars
No list of the best binoculars for wildlife viewing would be complete without a pair of Swarovskis.
Known throughout the world for their quality, these may well be the ultimate wildlife binoculars, but they come at a price.
- Size: 5.4 x 6.5 x 3.2 in. / 137 x 166 x 81 mm
- Weight: 31.6 oz / 895 g
Features:
- Expansive field of view
- Integrated objective lens and eyepiece covers
- Razor-sharp images
- Precise range and angle measurement
(Source)
Get prices and see reviews at Amazon:
- Swarovski EL 8.5×42
- Swarovski EL 10×42
Best Binoculars For Wildlife Viewing: Conclusion
We hope that this guide has been helpful for you if you are considering getting a new pair of binoculars. Although wildlife watching can be enjoyed with little or no equipment, it’s made even better with a good pair of binoculars!
If you have any personal binocular recommendations, hints or tips, then please let us know in the comments section below!
5 Best Binoculars for Wildlife Viewing (Buying Guide)
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In this article, we’ll introduce some of the best binoculars for wildlife viewing that range in price and style. We’ll also give you some things to consider when selecting the best pair of binoculars for yourself.
Watching wildlife is an amazing way to pass time while also learning something new about our natural world. However, if you have ever tried to get a better look at an animal by getting closer, you have probably noticed that most animals prefer to be observed from a distance and can be quite flighty when approached. Luckily, we have tools such as spotting scopes and binoculars to help us get a better view.
Here are 5 of our favorite binoculars for wildlife watching.
Our top 5 best binoculars for wildlife viewing
In a hurry? Here are our top 3 picks:
- Premium pick: Swarovski SLC Series
- Best all-around: Vortex Viper HD
- Budget choice: Adorrgon HD Binoculars
1.
SWAROVSKI Optik SLC SeriesBest Premium Binoculars
For avid wildlife viewers and birdwatchers, binoculars from Swarovski are certainly among the best binoculars for wildlife viewing and a worthwhile investment in you want the best money can buy. This company boasts very high quality optics in a simple yet sleek frame. This series of binoculars offers three different models with magnification ranging from 8x to 15x.
Swarovski binoculars offer swarovision- which is the company’s signature quality lens that employs specialized lenses that allow for a wider view and clearer peripheral vision. Additionally, these lenses are enhanced to provide the viewer with clear, crisp color quality.
Features:
- Large viewing field (~62 degrees)
- HD lenses that allow for 93% light transmission and sharper colors
- Water resistant
- Rugged materials, resistant to wear and tear
- Up to 15x56mm magnification
While the sticker shock of Swarovski binoculars may scare some people off, there is no doubt that these binoculars are some of the best.
Whether you are a hunter, birder or just interested in watching wildlife, you will not be disappointed with this product.
Swarovski also offers a lifetime warranty on their lenses, paired with a ten year warranty on other parts on their binoculars. This is a perk you certainly should not overlook, as not all companies will offer the same.
Buy on Amazon
2. Vortex Optics Viper HD
Vortex optics makes binoculars that are marketed for hunters, however anybody can use these binoculars. The Viper HD line has four options ranging in size and magnification. The line starts with a pair with 8x magnification, and goes up to 12x magnification.
This line is a great middle of the road option in terms of price. They are high in quality at a fraction of the price compared to binoculars from Swarvoski. Their key feature is their high definition lenses, which provide viewers with a sharp view of whatever they are looking at from a fair distance. Additionally, they have anti-reflective lens coatings which give the best views, even with limited lighting.
Features:
- Waterproof and fogproof
- High density lenses that give edge to edge quality resolution
- Made with rugged materials and scratch resistant lenses
- Up to 12×50 mm magnification
This product is great for wildlife viewers that want to step it up but aren’t wanting to commit to a pair of binoculars that are upwards of $2,000. Vortex prides themselves on quality customer service that will help with repairs and servicing so that you can keep your binoculars in tip top shape.
When you purchase a pair of Vortex Viper HD binoculars, you will also get a glass pak chest harness that allows you to carry them in a way that you can access them quickly and effortlessly. The chest harness is also more comfortable than your typical binocular strap that goes around your neck.
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3. Nikon Monarch 5
You’re probably familiar with the brand Nikon, known for their cameras, but they also make several lines of binoculars.
The Monarch 5 series offers two sets of binoculars, one with 8x magnification and the other with 10x magnification.
Given that Nikon makes cameras with high quality lenses, it’s no surprise that their binoculars also offer the same. They are fitted with Nikon’s signature extra-low dispersion lenses that give users a sharper and clearer view. These binoculars give a high light transmittance and display colors clearly across the entire color spectrum.
Features:
- Waterproof and fogproof
- Apparent field of view ranging from 47.5 to 51.3 degrees
- Lightweight yet sturdy frame
- High Eye-point design which provides comfort for viewers that wear glasses as well as those that do not
- 8-10x42mm magnification
The Nikon Monarch binoculars are an excellent choice for wildlife viewers that want something both rugged and lightweight. Given that the Nikon brand is world renowned, you can be confident that you will be receiving a high quality product when purchasing from them.
Additionally, you’ll find that Nikon offers amazing customer service. With their products being covered by a warranty, you can send in your binoculars to be repaired, cleaned, or even replaced in some cases.
Buy on Amazon
4. Bushnell Bone Collector Powerview
Similar to the Vortex optics binoculars, Bushnell binoculars are typically marketed towards hunters. Bushnell is well known for their affordable yet high-quality game cameras, used by hunters and wildlife enthusiasts all over the world. Despite being made for hunting, the Bushnell Bone Collector Powerview binoculars work well for anybody wishing to view wildlife up close.
One key feature of Bushnell Binoculars is that they are made to be adjusted quickly and effortlessly using an intuitive design. This will allow you to focus on wildlife that is on the move. Some binoculars require quite a bit of adjusting and fine tuning in order to perfect the image, which is not always ideal when trying to view moving animals.
Features:
- Rugged yet ergonomic design
- Easy to focus
- Multi-coated optics that draw in light- even in low-light situations
- Waterproof and fogproof
- 10x42mm magnification
This pair of binoculars is a solid choice for people that wish to be able to scope out and focus on wildlife quickly. They would likely be more suitable for someone wishing to watch marine life such as whales or dolphins or other large land mammals, as opposed to watching small songbirds.
This is the perfect pair of binoculars to throw in your backpack for a hike, or to keep in your car or boat due to how rugged they are.
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5. Adorrgon HD Binoculars
Best Budget Binoculars
If you are on the fence on whether or not you think you’d like a pair of binoculars for yourself this pair of binoculars is a great place to start due to their price and quality optics. Granted, you can’t expect the same quality as a pair of Swarvoski binoculars, the Adorrgon HD binoculars boast powerful and clear magnification.
Another added perk of this product is that it comes with a small tripod and smartphone adapter. The tripod will keep your binoculars steady which is great for taking strain off of your arms when watching in a single spot for an extended period. It also allows for the user to set up their binoculars to take photos through the lenses using the smartphone adapter. This is a great feature that is not included with other binoculars on this list.
Features:
- Water resistant and fogproof
- Lightweight and foldable
- Up to 99% full spectrum reflectance that produces bright and clear images
- Can deliver a clear face from over 650 feet away
- 12x42mm magnification
Buying a pair of binoculars is a commitment, so if you are just getting into bird-watching or wildlife viewing, you may want to consider a pair at a lower price point before shelling out up to thousands of dollars on a pair. This product is proof that you don’t have to sacrifice quality- even when paying less.
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6 things to consider when choosing binoculars
1. Magnification
Seeing as the main function of binoculars is to magnify an image, the power of magnification is important to consider when picking some out. Magnification level is listed with a number followed by an x. Most binoculars are around 10x, which means they magnify an image ten times. While higher magnification may sound better, it can be more difficult to focus your image when the level reaches 12x and up. The level you choose should be influenced by your experience with using binoculars, whether or not you will use a tripod, and what you are trying to view.
2. Objective lens diameter
Objective lens diameter is indicated after the magnification level. For example, 10x42mm would be used for a pair of binoculars that magnify an image 10 times, with an objective lens diameter of 42mm. This value is essentially the size of the lens, which directly correlates to how much light will be taken in. More light often means a clearer, crisper image.
3. Weight
While most binoculars aren’t very heavy, it is important to take into account how much they weigh and how you plan to use them. If you plan to wear your binoculars around your neck for hours at a time, you probably want a lighter pair. Additionally, if you find yourself stopping and looking through them for extended periods of time, even a few extra ounces can cause a lot of strain and make your viewing experience less comfortable.
4. Field of view
Field of view can be measured in degrees or feet/yards. Essentially, the field of view is how wide your view is (in feet or degrees) from 1,000 yards. Lower magnification is typically associated with a larger field of view, while higher magnification typically has a smaller, but more focused field of view. For example, if you are interested in scanning large areas for wildlife, you probably want a large field.
5. Waterproofing
When selecting equipment that is intended to be used outside, you definitely want to consider something that is waterproof or atleast water resistant.
Waterproof binoculars typically have a very tight seal on the lenses, which also helps to prevent them from fogging up. The last thing that you want is to have your view impeded by fogged up lenses.
6. Eye Relief
One of the specs you may notice on binoculars is the eye relief. This measures the amount of space between the eyepiece and your eye, which is dependent on the eyecup size. Eye relief is especially important to consider if you wear glasses. Most binoculars offer adjustable eyecaps.
Binocular FAQ’s
What can I use my binoculars for?
Binoculars can be used for watching wildlife, sporting events, concerts, hunting, photography and even astronomy and sky viewing.
What binoculars are best for bird watching?
While it all comes down to preference, most bird-watchers prefer binoculars with a wide field of view that allows them to scan areas for birds. Pairs between 7x and 8x magnification with lenses between 30mm and 42mm.
This lense size rangs allows enough light in to see images sharply, while not being too heavy.
What do binoculars numbers mean?
The numbers you will see on all binoculars is their magnification power and their lens size, with the numbers displayed like this: Magnification x lens size (mm).
Are binoculars better than a telescope?
Both binoculars and telescopes have pros and cons. So “better” is relative to what you are looking for and what you plan on using your telescope or binoculars for. Telescopes offer stronger magnification, but are heavy and large.
If you are interested in stargazing, or looking over landscapes or otherwise static or still images, then a telescope is likely best for you. But, binoculars allow you to see clearly and up close in a diverse set of situations. Binoculars are also more portable, making them versatile and better for everyday use.
How far can binoculars see?
This depends on the magnification power of your binoculars.
Some binoculars can return images from several hundred yards away, all the way up to over 10 miles away.
Conclusion
There are endless options when it comes to finding a pair of binoculars, ranging in quality, price and magnification power. How you select the pair that’s right for you will come down to how you intend to use them, how often you will use them, and how much you are wanting to spend.
Perhaps the best balance of price and quality is the Vortex Viper HD option. This pair offers extremely high quality optics in a rugged frame, at a fraction of the price of premium options. Not only that, but you certainly get your money’s worth when it comes to customer service.
However, if you are wanting something a little less expensive, then you can’t go wrong with the Bushnell BoneCollectors. These too are very rugged, but are lightweight. They are also easy to adjust and focus, making them great for beginners or anybody that needs to be able to focus their binoculars quickly.
The options above offer a diverse range of binoculars, with a pair for everybody’s price point. Hopefully after reading this article, you have a better idea of what to look for when selecting binoculars that are right for you, seeing as there are many factors to consider. Regardless of which pair you pick, you will definitely enjoy being able to see wildlife up close- all while remaining a fair distance away, giving you the ultimate wildlife viewing experience!
Wildlife Binoculars
Wildlife Binoculars - Canon IrelandARTICLE
Broadcaster Chris Packham and his stepdaughter and colleague Megan McCabbin discuss the Canon equipment they regularly use to observe and photograph wildlife.
BBC presenter and conservation activist Chris Packham has traveled to many countries observing and photographing wildlife using Canon equipment. Taken on a Canon EOS 5DS with a Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens (now succeeded by the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM) at 102mm, 1/2000 sec.
, f/6.3 and ISO 400. © Chris Packham
Chris Packham loves to talk about his passion for nature, which has helped him become one of the UK's best-known naturalists. He has been a television presenter since 1986 and is also active in book publishing, photography and conservation campaigning.
Chris is a regular presenter for a number of channels including the BBC, National Geographic and Animal Planet. These include a number of BBC shows - Springwatch, Autumnwatch and Winterwatch - which he co-hosts with his stepdaughter, zoologist, conservation activist and photographer Megan McCabbin.
In this exclusive interview, John Maurice, Product Marketing Manager for Canon Europe, will discuss with Chris and Meghan the nature observation with binoculars, the Canon equipment they use for wildlife photography, and the importance of the ethical principles of the chosen manufacturer.
Megan is a frequent user of Canon 10x32 IS binoculars and admits she loves the Powered IS feature, which allows her to see her subject clearly even while moving or viewing from unstable surfaces.
“Recently I have spent a lot of time on boats doing dolphin and gannet watching, and the stabilization really helps a lot, compensating for the vibrations from the movement of both me and the boat. The image remained as clear as possible, and this allows you to receive valuable information with binoculars or share it with other people, ”she says. Taken on a Canon EOS 5D Mark IV with a Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM lens at 400mm, 1/1250 sec, f/7.1 and ISO200. © Megan McCabbin
Like Megan, Chris also uses his Canon 10x32 IS binoculars, which he keeps in one of the kitchen cabinets. According to him, this equipment is necessary for all lovers of wildlife. “I can’t imagine the life of a naturalist without such binoculars,” he says. “If you see an object up close, you can make out the details of it, which will help you understand exactly what you are looking at.”
John Maurice: First I would like to talk about your observations as Canon helps you see the subject and capture it in image format.
How do you search for and recognize objects in nature?
Chris Packham: Seeing the right object is helped by the chosen environment, the ability to observe the right point and the ability to perceive. For a predator to survive, it needs to acquire and keep in mind a visual image of its prey. I think that naturalists are doing a little different, but we are also developing our abilities and senses to find the necessary objects. It's all about looking at the right place at the right time and discerning the shape and movement of an object in any weather or environment. It is these small details that allow you to instantly determine what is in front of you. Sometimes the information received from what you see is not enough to immediately identify the object, so you have to watch it a little. This means that you need to focus on it for a couple of seconds in order to more accurately determine what it is. You need to be able to look at the details - not only at the whole object, but also at small components.
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John: For you, binoculars are a key means of identification. What magnification do you prefer?
Chris: There's always a balance between field of view and magnification, but I've been using the Canon 10x32 IS since it was released. I keep it in one of my kitchen cabinets as there is a window nearby through which I can watch the bird feeders. The 10x zoom is a great option for those who don't yet know how good image stabilization is and who have yet to marvel at the capabilities of this device. These binoculars are so good that I even thought about getting a model with a higher magnification - 12x or 14x - because the stabilizer will allow me to successfully put it into practice without unnecessary mounts.
The difference is that the Image Stabilizer allows you to observe wildlife with clearer images. The image of the bird without Powered IS enabled (top left) is much blurrier than the image with Powered IS (top right).
Powered IS on Canon stabilized binoculars compensates for movement for easy viewing and tracking.
John: There are 10x32 IS, 12x32 IS and 14x32 IS models in the series you own one of, but they are all the same size and weight - only magnification is different. 10x binoculars are equivalent to a 500mm lens. For birdwatching, people usually use magnifications from 8x to 12x. Megan, what kind of binoculars do you use?
Megan McCabbin: I also work with Canon 10x32 IS binoculars. I always take it with me wherever I go, and even at home I keep it handy. These are the most comfortable binoculars I have ever used. I never thought about how useful image stabilization is until I really appreciated it - I don't have to think about anything other than observing the details of the selected object.
I was able to see a number of objects exclusively thanks to these binoculars.
John: There is some similarity between installing an optical Image Stabilizer on binoculars and a lens is the shift in the optical components to compensate for movement. Without this, the eyes get tired quickly, especially when working with binoculars with a high magnification factor - with long-term observation through binoculars, even the head starts to hurt.
Chris: For me, another important factor in working with a stabilizer is the ability to determine exactly what I'm looking at. Of course, if you look at an object from afar, when it seems to be just a point at a great distance from you, it is very difficult to recognize it. However, with the press of a stabilizer button, it's not all that difficult. It seems that with it the zoom factor becomes a little higher, because with the touch of this button, the clarity and detail become higher.
“I like more picturesque and abstract photos that make viewers wonder what they are looking at,” Meghan says of her photographs.
There is no point in taking a photo that someone else has already taken. I like to focus on details and photograph unusual objects.” Taken on a Canon EOS 5D Mark IV with a Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM lens at 400mm, 1/1000 sec, f/9 and ISO200. © Megan McCabbin
John: The binoculars you're currently using are lighter than the weatherproof and waterproof models, but they're still weatherproof in a way. Perhaps many of these models will seem quite balanced.
Megan: This is the golden mean. Due to the cameras and lenses in the bag, the equipment weighs more than enough, and light weight is especially important in remote locations where you have to walk a lot. However, we also don't want to sacrifice quality too much.
John: When you both go hiking and nature watching, do you always take your camera and binoculars with you?
Chris: If I'm planning on taking photographs, I'll make sure to bring binoculars with me as much of my time is spent looking for a subject to shoot.
Therefore, binoculars are the first stage of the workflow. However, it is very easy to miss the moment if you focus too much on creating an image. For me, everything changes when I put away my binoculars and take out my camera. If binoculars are about finding, observing, and enjoying, then a camera is about creating images.
Megan: I think taking pictures is great, but it's a completely different experience. When you take out the camera, you completely concentrate on the result. You think about composition, lighting, sharpness and other things. When I go camping, I often leave my camera at home, because even though I love taking photos, I think it's more important not to miss an interesting moment.
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In addition to his favorite Canon 10x32 IS binoculars, Chris also appreciated the Canon 10x42L IS WP.
“He got the job done in all conditions,” he says. — I didn't put it under water, but it got very wet. He has also been to Antarctica, in extreme cold conditions." Taken on a Canon EOS 5DS R with a Canon EF 500mm f/4L IS II USM lens at 1/500 sec, f/13 and ISO200. © Chris Packham
When observing nature, Chris likes to use the Canon 10x32 IS binoculars. “Binoculars are needed not only to see what is in the distance, but also to track small objects very close to you,” he says. We often use binoculars with the reverse side, that is, as a powerful magnifying glass. So Megan and I once looked for interesting plants.” Taken on a Canon EOS R with a Canon Mount Adapter EF-EOS R and a Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM lens at 100mm, 1/1250 sec, f/2.8 and ISO200. © Chris Packham
John: Chris, you recently started working with the Canon EOS R5. Can you tell us about your impressions of using this camera?
Chris: The Canon EOS 5DS R has been my favorite camera for the past few years, but I was loaned a Canon EOS R5 for a while and I was so happy with the results that I bought one for myself.
I am delighted with her. This is a phenomenal step forward. I immediately took her to the beach, choosing a sunny day to walk the dogs. Shooting black dogs running fast in sunny weather is never easy. I used follow focus, which recognizes the subject's eyes, and it worked great. In just one day, I got more clear photos with my dogs on the beach than in all the time before.
I purchased a Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS III USM lens with the camera. When I install it on the EOS R5, it allows you to do incredible things because the combination of them is very easy. Now this is my main lens. I shoot absolutely everything with it, because I like the shallow depth of field.
John: What about you Megan?
Megan: I use a Canon EOS 5D Mark IV and my favorite lens is the Canon EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM Extender 1.4x. This lens literally lives on my camera. It may be a bit heavier, but I'm willing to go with it as I love the extra magnification and the effect it creates.
I love capturing detailed shots, but I want to capture the animal as close as possible without frightening it or disturbing its natural behavior.
Chris: Recently my Canon EOS R was converted to infrared. This is the best thing I've done in years of shooting. This is a very interesting option - infrared shooting shows completely different results in different situations.
Something else is very important to us, and these are ethical principles. One of the main reasons we choose Canon products is the company's ethical principles with regard to trophy hunting, terms of employment, waste management and minimal environmental impact in the manufacturing process.
Megan: These days I get asked more about the ethics of the manufacturers of the equipment I use than about the quality of their products. Wildlife brand business principles have become quite a hot topic of discussion.
According to Meghan, the COVID-19 pandemic and its associated lockdowns in many parts of the world have led to a renewed interest in local and wildlife.
“People are sharing photos much more frequently,” she says. - Yes, it can be just pictures from the window, but they began to see what they had no time for before. I love photography so much because the photographer and the viewer may not even speak the same language, but at the same time successfully interact. People all over the world were talking when they were very lonely, and it made our life a little more comfortable.” Taken on a Canon EOS 5D Mark IV with a Canon EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM Extender 1.4x lens at 1/400 sec, f/2.8 and ISO1600. © Megan McCabbin
John: We've said before that we don't support hunting in any form, and we will never sponsor such activities. Our branding team regularly evaluates our products for cultural and environmental compliance.
Chris: Seems it's all about change. We must constantly make changes that are good for us and the environment. Education is important, and people like Meghan and me need to spread this knowledge in society.
John: Conserving the environment is about watching and enjoying nature and taking pictures of it. We hope that this will help people to turn their energies to caring for nature and appreciate its value.
Megan: When they begin to observe nature, people often feel that they must be able to identify everything they see, but the natural world can simply bring us peace of mind. The biodiversity in our environment, whether it's taking pictures or simply observing these creatures through binoculars, has the potential to add variety to the lives of a very large number of people.
Written by David Clark
Chris Packham Equipment
Equipment Pros Use to Take Photos
Canon EOS R5
Forget everything you knew about mirrorless cameras. The unrivaled performance of the EOS R5 will open up new possibilities for you in photography and videography. “I am delighted with her.
This is a phenomenal step forward,” says Chris.
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Canon EOS R
A highly detailed 30.3 MP full-frame sensor, high ISO speed and Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology make the Canon EOS R the perfect tool for capturing unforgettable stories. Chris says: "Recently my Canon EOS R was converted to infrared and it's the best thing I've done in years of shooting."
Additional information
Canon EOS 5DS R
Designed for stunning image quality, DSLR camera with 50.6 MP resolution and low-pass filter suppressor for maximum camera sensor sharpness. “This is still my favorite camera,” says Chris.
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Canon EF 16-35mm F/4L IS USM
Remove amazing landscapes and architectural plans using this compact and easy, productive super-sparkling super-sparkling super-sparkling super-sparkling super-sparking super-and-productive super-sparking super-sparking super-sparking super-sparking super-sparking super-sparking super-sparking superex f/4 fixed aperture lens with image stabilization system.
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Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM
This versatile lens excels in handheld portrait and video shooting with its shallow depth of field, beautiful bokeh, and built-in hybrid stabilization mode. images of Hybrid IS and lightweight design.
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Canon EF 200-400mm f/4L IS USM +1.4x III
This compact extender extends the focal length of Canon's L-series prime and telephoto lenses by up to 1.4x, while delivering improved autofocus accuracy and faster communication between camera and lens.
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Canon EF 500mm f/4L IS II USM
Super telephoto lens with high magnification and built-in image stabilization. Ideal for wildlife, nature or sports photographers in the field.
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Canon EF 600mm f/4L IS III USM
Offering superb image quality and impeccable build quality, this ultra-light lens is ideal for professional wildlife, sports and news photographers.
Chris says: “Now this is my main lens. I shoot absolutely everything with it, because I like the shallow depth of field.”
Additional information
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Canon 10x32 IS highly detailed images, making it easy and convenient to observe the subject. “I've been using Canon 10x32 IS binoculars since they first came out,” says Chris. - 10x zoom is a great option for those who do not yet know how good image stabilization is, and who are just going to be surprised by the capabilities of this device. It's so good that I even thought about getting a higher magnification model."
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Canon 12x32 IS
Experience stable images and high magnification with 12x binoculars with enhanced Image Stabilizer.
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Canon 14x32 IS
Watch small birds and animals in the distance while hand held with 14x magnification binoculars with enhanced Image Stabilizer.
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Canon 10x42L IS WP
These premium waterproof binoculars withstand the harshest conditions of use with Japanese Industrial Standard (JIS7) weatherproofing. Enjoy ultra-stable handheld vision and easily locate and track birds even in flight at high magnifications with Canon's Optical Image Stabilizer (IS) that accurately corrects for various movements and shaking.
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Canon Mount Adapter EF-EOS R
The standard EF-EOS R mount adapter makes it easy to use EF-S and EF lenses with EOS R cameras. Hide Additional
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Wildlife photographer and broadcaster Chris Packham shares his unique perspective on composition and the demands he makes on himself and his equipment .
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How to choose birdwatching binoculars?
Author of the article: Anna Evseeva
If you are a wildlife lover, binoculars will definitely come in handy. You will be able to examine the landscapes around you in much more detail, admire the landscapes and get accustomed to the life of animals.
And if your hobby is birdwatching - bird watching. Then you just need binoculars. After all, birds are usually careful. They don't let you get close. Through binoculars, you can observe their life from the side, without frightening.
You may think that there are only doves and crows around you. But know it's not. Even in large metropolitan areas, you can watch interesting birds. Each species has its own territory of distribution and preferences. And of course, in different regions the variety of birds is different. But in almost any city park you can meet several dozen species of birds. Different types of tits and woodpeckers, jays, blackbirds, ducks. The more different places you visit, the more inhabitants you will see. After all, some birds live near the water, others prefer spruce forests, and someone lives in the meadows.
Birdwatching is a great opportunity to spend more time outdoors. Searching for new species and shooting good shots, identifying birds by plumage, silhouette and even voices.
You will definitely learn a lot about nature and become more observant.
To get started, get a guide to the birds of your region, subscribe to thematic blogs (for example, my https://www.instagram.com/anna.grus/?utm_medium=copy_link ), find out what are the most common species in your city and what are interesting there are bird areas all around you. Do not chase rarities right away, learn to recognize more or less common species. Most likely you will be surprised how many different birds you have not noticed before.
As I said, binoculars are very useful. But what are the best binoculars for birdwatching?
When choosing, first pay attention to the most basic characteristics - the magnification factor and the diameter of the objective lens. These two numbers are always indicated in a similar format: 8x42, 15x50, etc.
For example, the numbers 10x50 mean that binoculars have a tenfold magnification and a lens diameter of 50mm. This means that with binoculars the image will be 10 times larger than without it.
The lens diameter is directly proportional to the amount of light collected. The higher the value, the more light the binoculars can collect. Which is very important at dusk, in a shady forest or in cloudy weather.
In general, the ratio of these parameters is some kind of compromise between object approximation, field of view width, image brightness and weight.
Here I will not go into technical details, but I will speak about my personal choice.
You can read more about the technical characteristics in the article "How to choose binoculars?" .
The optimal parameters for binoculars, I consider options: 10x42, 10x50, 12x50 or 12x42.
They are versatile for open spaces and forests, and their weight and dimensions allow you to carry them with you for a long time and use them without a tripod. Especially if you prefer binoculars with a Roof-prism.
When observing animals, you will definitely have to deal with different weather conditions and situations.
So water resistance and filling the case with nitrogen are important indicators. Especially if you plan to dive head first into birdwatching. Of course, be guided by your financial capabilities, but remember that good binoculars will give you impressions and last for more than one year.
I use Pentax 10x50 DCF SP and Papilio || 8.5x21. The second option won me over with its compactness and lightness. I use it when I want to lighten my gear.
I think this is also a great binocular for kids. It is easy to hold in your hands and can be put into your pocket. Among other things, it is also a macro binocular, it also focuses on objects that are only half a meter away. So you can look into it not only into the distance, but also watch anthills, butterflies, look at plants.
In addition to binoculars, spotting scopes are excellent optics for birdwatching. They are convenient to use when observing clusters of birds. During the spring and autumn migration, waterfowl and near-water birds often gather in large flocks.
