Binoculars: Reviews

If you haven't shopped for binoculars, prepare yourself for sticker shock: models with the best optics, the least jiggly image and the brightest view can cost more than $1,000. But if you're just looking for a reliable pair of binoculars for sporting events, sightseeing and checking out the birds in your backyard feeder, you can spend less. We compared expert reviews from birders and hunters to user reviews at Amazon.com and other sites to find best-value binoculars in all price ranges.

Nikon Travelite VI 10x25

Budget binoculars

*Est. $100

Estimated Price

If you want an affordable, lightweight pair of binoculars for travel or occasional use, reviewers recommend the Nikon Travelite series. The 9.5-ounce Nikon Travelite VI 10x25 binoculars have a 262-foot field of view, and reviewers say they have surprisingly good optical quality for the price. In fact, the Nikon Travelite binoculars often beat out more expensive models in tests. The lightweight design also earns high marks for being easy to carry. A 25-year warranty is another plus. The Nikon Travelite binoculars are not waterproof, and the short 11.1 mm eye relief may strain your eyes if used for long periods. Some reviewers found the previous model too small for those with large hands to hold comfortably. Nikon has updated the exterior of the VI 10x25 to improve the ergonomics, which may help alleviate the problem.

Compare Prices See Our Full Review

Bushnell Legend Ultra HD 10x42

Best-value binoculars

*Est. $300

Estimated Price

Reviewers say the Bushnell Legend Ultra HD 10x42 produce clear, sharp images on par with binoculars costing much more. The Bushnell binoculars, which come with a limited lifetime warranty, use fluorite glass -- something usually only found on pricier models. As a result, testers say the Bushnell Legend Ultra HD binoculars have excellent optical quality and perform very well in low-light conditions. An ample 340-foot field of view and a fogproof and waterproof design are also high points. Some reviewers think the 15.2 mm eye relief is a little short for 10x42 binoculars, and we saw one report that the focus dial is too stiff. Otherwise, users say these binoculars are a great value.

Compare Prices See Our Full Review

Swarovski EL 42 Swarovision 10x42

Luxury binoculars

*Est. $2,500

Estimated Price

Reviewers absolutely rave about the image quality produced by the Swarovski EL 42 Swarovision 10x42 binoculars, using words like "stunning" and "superb." The binoculars easily top comparative tests, and users say you're bound to be impressed by the bright images and color rendition. The Swarovski binoculars also excel in low light, making them great at dawn and dusk. Reviewers love the stylish design and attention to detail -- the diopter adjustment wheel locks to prevent accidental changes, and the eyecups are adjustable. The Swarovski EL 42 Swarovision binoculars also have very generous eye relief of 20 mm, which makes the binoculars more comfortable for eyeglass wearers (experts recommend at least 14 to 16 mm eye relief for those with glasses). On a negative note, the binoculars weigh 29.6 ounces, so they can be hard to hold steady for long periods. The price tag is astronomical, but if you're willing to pay for the best, reviews indicate that the Swarovski EL 42 Swarovision binoculars should be at the top of your list. They are covered by a lifetime warranty.

Compare Prices See Our Full Review

Pentax DCF NV 8x36

Budget birding binoculars

*Est. $200

Estimated Price

Birding experts recommend binoculars with 8x magnification (represented by the first number in 8x36) for bird-watching, since those binoculars are a good compromise between magnification and weight. The Pentax DCF NV 8x36 are a particularly good choice for birders on a budget. The polycarbonate exterior is tough and durable, and 16 mm eye relief ensures comfortable viewing for users with glasses. Optical quality is very good and images have excellent contrast. The Pentax DCF NV aren't the lightest binoculars at 22.6 ounces, but reviewers say they are comfortable to hold and carry. A 342-foot field of view also helps in spotting birds in trees or in flight. We saw one report that the larger 10x36 version has a little color distortion around the edges of images, but most reviewers are very pleased with the Pentax DCF NV birding binoculars. They come with a one-year warranty.

Compare Prices See Our Full Review

Zeiss Victory T* FL 8x42

Luxury birding binoculars

*Est. $1,950

Estimated Price

For serious birders, reviews cite the high-end Zeiss Victory T* FL 8x42 binoculars as the best you can buy. Images are superb, bright and clear, and the Zeiss are so comfortable that reviewers say they almost become part of your face. The Zeiss lenses are made of fluorite prism glass, designed to enhance light transmission and color accuracy. In one comparative test, the Zeiss Victory binoculars are the only ones that receive a perfect score for optical quality. At 405 feet, field of view is excellent, and the Zeiss binoculars can focus as close as 6 feet -- good for watching bird feeders and butterflies. The Zeiss binoculars weigh 26.6 ounces. They are waterproof, fogproof and guaranteed for life. Despite raves, the price tag is simply too high for some, who say they wouldn't buy them for themselves.

Compare Prices See Our Full Review

COMPARE PRODUCTS

See a side-by-side comparison of key features, product specs, and prices.