Best Binoculars

In a Hurry? Editors choice:
Carson 3D series
Test Winner: Carson 3D series
Amazon Link
When it comes to hiking or camping in nature it is nice to be able to see all the animals around you at a closer view. Binoculars are a great tool to help you bird watch or even help while you are out on the lake fishing to get a better look. There are many things to consider when purchasing a great pair on binoculars including the weight, the clarity, and the distance you can see until. If you are a bird enthusiast and can sit in a spot watching birds all day then the weight is not really an issue for you. Watching fast-paced or moving objects you are going to want a larger and clearer field of view so you can see all that is going on. We have reviewed the top ten best binoculars in the market today below.

Standout Picks

Carson 3D series
The Carson company has done a great job in the design for sure. The features on these are almost everything you will ever really need. They have everything from viewing quality to durability and even comfortability not skipping anything in between.
Amazon Link
$319.99
Sallous Small Compact
If you know the brand name Sallous then you know they are renowned for their quality of work that they put out and this pair is no exception to the outstanding craftsmanship with this Sallous small compact pair being no exception. This binocular is known for its clear view and having 10x magnification with a 25 mm objective lens. This feature allows you to see objects ten x’s closer with clarity especially when it comes to nature and for bird watching. It has a wonderful large view field of 378ft/1,000Yds. You are even able to focus on details over 1,000 yards away from you. There is a middle knob that helps with the clarity of your view to help even children focus more on objects they are looking at. These Sallous Small Compact binoculars are known for being great for wildlife watching, concerts, opera, hiking, bird watching, and even theatre shows. They are very small and lightweight and even come with a carrying case making them even easier to take around with you.
Amazon Link
Wingspan Optics NatureScout 8X32
If you are looking for a good pair that are easy to store anywhere including those filled backpacking backpacks these are a good option. Being extremely affordable anyone from the hardcore backcountry backpacker to the diehard sports fan in the nose bleeds will be able to consider these an option.
Amazon Link
$89.99
AUROSPORTS Folding
If you’re looking for a compact and lightweight option and are on a budget then this is your answer hands down! Cost wise it is extremely affordable yet at the same time does not skimp on features.
Amazon Link
$24.85
Nikon 8245 ACULON A211
Nikon has made a name for itself especially in the photo and video worlds and their quality has carried straight on over to their manufacturing. Now yes there are some immediate concerns when you first lay eyes on them such as their noticeably bigger stature compared to all of the other options our list here. But not everything is about looks.
Amazon Link
$106.95
Vanguard ED 1042
The open bridge on this Vanguard pair makes usage a little more comfortable and the qualities below Vanguard backs these with a complete lifetime warranty. So lets put them through the wringer and see how they do.
Amazon Link
$203.88
Nikon Monarch 7
When it comes to Nikon they are no strangers to the optical game by any means and they keep that reputation going strong. Nikon has been making the Monarch series for a few generations now, improving each one tenfold as they move forward. All of the Monarch’s that Nikon has put out have been spectacular but with the latest Monarch 7, they have outdone themselves thus the top spot on our list.
Amazon Link
$429.00
Celestron 71404 TrailSeeker
To the naked eye, the Celestron pair looks pretty simple and yet that is what makes it so beautiful. Celestron’s sleek design not only is appealing but they have managed to pack in many great features. These might be a better option for you if you just want a pair for weekend viewing and not all of the time.
Amazon Link
$259.95
Bushnell Legend Ultra HD M-Series
The Bushnell brand has been around this market for some time and they know what they are doing. This Bushnell pair can be used for everything from bird watching, to hunting, and any other outdoors enthusiast’s desire and does it well across the spectrum.
Amazon Link
Vortex Optics Vulture HD
When it comes to quality and reliability Vortex Optics has you covered. Their products are so trusted that in some places even law enforcement relies on Vortex Optics’ HD line of sight and for good reason. Every piece used to make the Vortex Optics Vulture is all high-quality material both in durability and in utilization.
Amazon Link
$449.99

Criteria Used for Evaluation

Value

If you look closely at the prices you will notice that there are the cheap type that may or may not suit your needs, and then there is a little more pricey pair. There isn’t much in between on this market so sit down and think where, when, why you will be using them and decide if you really need to spend a few hundred dollars for just a sporting event every other month versus an avid birdwatcher or hiker that goes out every week or so to use them. You don’t want to spend the money and have them be a paperweight.

Features

We cannot forget about magnification, it is a huge key component. The magnification level is the numbers shown with a little x thrown in the middle of two numbers. For the first number, the number represents how much closer objects will seem to you or commonly known as the magnification of the lens. Now the second number tells you how big (in millimeters) the lens actually is. With a bigger lens, it makes it easier to see in lower light conditions because the lens can let more light into the binocular. Now yes we have talked some about field of view already, but we are going to talk about it a little more because it is important. The FOV tells you how much you are actually going to be able to see while looking down range without having to move side to side. This is important because it is great if you can see thousands of miles away but if you FOV is too small you are going to have to move around a lot just to follow your target. Large FOV has its benefits in any way you are going to use your pair.

Use

To start the first two biggest questions to ask yourself are what will you be using them for most and secondly, along with the same lines, is how serious of a binocular user you plan to be. When it boils down to it we all want to be serious consumers about every purchase we make, although they do not have to be a life decision for someone that will only occasionally use them. Now, by all means, do not skimp because you get what you pay for but if you pay the price and not utilize them you might be upset; we want the ultimate goal to be satisfied for the whole time you own these. Now back to the somewhat more important matter which is what you will be using them for most.

Weather Resistance

Also, consider a greater magnification level if you know you will be quite distant from your subject you might need a great magnification. And last but not least, if you are going to be around any kind of moisture the waterproof/fog-proofing are a must! When water finds its way in there it is nearly impossible to clear them up anytime soon. All of that will get you started on your journey to finding the perfect pair for you and your lifestyle.

Top 10 Picks

1. Carson 3D series

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$319.99
Carson 3D series
Amazon Link

The Carson company has done a great job in the design for sure. The features on these are almost everything you will ever really need. They have everything from viewing quality to durability and even comfortability not skipping anything in between.

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Value
Price for this item is a little tricky. It is properly priced but they don’t have any features drawing someone in making them want to pay this much for this class of binocular. If you are going to spend this much money you can find a lot better pair.

Features
When it comes to the end of the day these are basically a run of the mill and mundane pair. That being said they do stand behind their product 100% by offering what is supposed to be one of the best warranties you can find out there. If you are they everyday guy that wants a little better binocular but do not want to jump to “the pro’s” then this would be a perfect choice for you. An amazing field of view comes along with all the other perks these have to offer. They claim to be able to see 314 feet at 1,000 yards out. This is outstanding! Perfect for watching a large area without having to constantly scan the horizon for what you are looking for because you can nearly see the whole darn thing. the weight for these are neither good nor are they bad. They are not the heaviest set out there by any means but if weight is an issue for you I recommend heading back up this list. If weight is not an issue and run of the mill is okay for you then these are it.

Use
The ED glass lenses that are equipped, provide for a very clear and bright view of your subject allowing these to be used for any activity. Extra long eye relief also gives these an ultimate comfort by not making the user be jammed up against them but with a little more room between. Also, they come with dielectric coated BAK-4 Prisms so they are up there with the best view you can buy for sure.

Weather Resistance
As far as water and fog proof goes, yes they are decent at that. Although the actual grip on theses is not super graspable. Sure you can hold them just fine but when the weather rolls in you may want to just put these little guys away.

Amazon Link
$319.99

2. Sallous Small Compact

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Sallous Small Compact
Amazon Link

If you know the brand name Sallous then you know they are renowned for their quality of work that they put out and this pair is no exception to the outstanding craftsmanship with this Sallous small compact pair being no exception. This binocular is known for its clear view and having 10x magnification with a 25 mm objective lens. This feature allows you to see objects ten x’s closer with clarity especially when it comes to nature and for bird watching. It has a wonderful large view field of 378ft/1,000Yds. You are even able to focus on details over 1,000 yards away from you. There is a middle knob that helps with the clarity of your view to help even children focus more on objects they are looking at. These Sallous Small Compact binoculars are known for being great for wildlife watching, concerts, opera, hiking, bird watching, and even theatre shows. They are very small and lightweight and even come with a carrying case making them even easier to take around with you.

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Value
They are extremely inexpensive for what they are although the used prices can be very, very affordable so these may start a wild goose chase to find the right price. They are below $20.00 and especially for their longevity and their features, these binoculars are a wonderful deal.

Features
The field of view for these are pretty standard and like not like most on this list where others have exceptionally wide fields of view and shine brightly these do not in this area. They have a 378ft/1,000Yds field of view. That being said, they do have a very close focusing range up to near about 8 feet. They even have a focus knob in the middle of the binoculars to turn to help with better clarity and focus when needed. Coming in at a whopping .49 pounds these bad boys can definitely be considered the tanks of the binocular world and are very lightweight and compact. They are just 4.5*3.9*1.2inches. With this size and weight, you get the aluminum case accompanied by a rubber armored housing to keep them all peachy when they accidentally take a tumble. These binoculars are 10x magnification with a 25 mm objective lens that allows you to see objects 10x’s closer up.

Use
The quality of the view on these is very good especially compared to others out on the market. Not to say they have the best view but they are very great when it comes to clear visibility. They come with a multi-coated lens system that not only allows for a pretty good view but unlike a lot of others, these do it well in low light situations as well which is a hard quality to find. While the design and overall quality are thriving like no other the weight of this item makes it very practical in today’s world. If you have to do much hiking we’d probably recommend these especially if you have children and will be going through all types of weather conditions then yes go for it for sure.

Weather Resistance
If you have crazy kids or you yourself a bit clumsy of a person then these things are definitely for you! These things are like tanks and very weatherproof with their all-weather gripping and the overall quality of these are just so well built that you really have no worries of drops and dings.

Amazon Link

3. Wingspan Optics NatureScout 8X32

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$89.99
Wingspan Optics NatureScout 8X32
Amazon Link

If you are looking for a good pair that are easy to store anywhere including those filled backpacking backpacks these are a good option. Being extremely affordable anyone from the hardcore backcountry backpacker to the diehard sports fan in the nose bleeds will be able to consider these an option.

Read more

Value
The price is another pair that lands in the reach of nearly any type of users. This is great because it allows the compact yet great quality to anyone out there wanting to utilize a tool like this and they can do it no matter their budget.

Features
When it comes down to overall quality, performance, and durability of just about anything you want a company to be confident they thrive in all areas and stand behind their product. One of the many reasons these are often highly recommended is that Wingspan Optics is one of those companies and they show it by offering a lifetime warranty on their products. So overall is a quality option at an affordable price and being guaranteed a solution if something does go wrong, how could you not consider this one of the top options on your buying list?

Use
Wielding a BAK-4 roof prism and a fully multi-coated lens coating these little guys pack a big punch. The quality of view on these is nothing short of being considered HD by any means putting out great clarity and colored views. The field of view was not compromised by size when these were designed not one bit. Having a very nice and wide field of view will allow the user to view nearly everything that is at a distance that they want to.

Weather Resistance
While offering waterproofing and even claiming to be drop proof, they don’t seem to be fog proof. This could be become a problem in some weather conditions by fogging up the viewing area.

Amazon Link
$89.99

4. AUROSPORTS Folding

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$24.85
AUROSPORTS Folding
Amazon Link

If you’re looking for a compact and lightweight option and are on a budget then this is your answer hands down! Cost wise it is extremely affordable yet at the same time does not skimp on features.

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Value
While most on our list kind of up there in price these are the complete opposite and are extremely affordable even for the broke nomad trying to cut weight in his pack.

Features
While these may be small the field of view is right behind it in size. The viewing area again is not small by any means but definitely not the widest out on the market for sure. Weighing in at an astonishing 0.34lbs it is compact and even folds to take up less space while you’re hitting the hiking trails or carrying it around anywhere you, please. Highly recommended to anyone especially someone looking to cut weight in a backpack without sacrificing too much quality.

Use
Coated with the BAK-4 prisms the view is extremely clear and colorful. But that’s all they have to offer for image quality. But hey at least it is the BAK-4 prisms. When it comes down to it these may be at the bottom of our list although they do serve a great purpose for those looking for something compact and lightweight. If you are a backpacker, these right here are your best friends.

Weather Resistance
They are also outfitted with non-slip rubber that also protects from the shock of dropping not to mention they are waterproof.

Amazon Link
$24.85

5. Nikon 8245 ACULON A211

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$106.95
Nikon 8245 ACULON A211
Amazon Link

Nikon has made a name for itself especially in the photo and video worlds and their quality has carried straight on over to their manufacturing. Now yes there are some immediate concerns when you first lay eyes on them such as their noticeably bigger stature compared to all of the other options our list here. But not everything is about looks.

Read more

Value
This is perhaps one of the most budget-friendly choices on this list allowing nearly anyone to be able to purchase them on any budget.

Features
The field of view on these are actually very large. Expanding almost 100 feet more than most of the other options out there today. These are extremely heavy once again and not to mention very bulky design. If size and weight is not an issue for you then do not hesitate to buy these! They are cheap compared to the market and don’t produce the best image like others but again to the untrained eye you will not notice a difference. If the size isn’t an issue and the budget is, do not hesitate because these are for you!

Use
These are accompanied by the Eco-Glass lenses which produce an okay quality image. Also, it is given the roof prism design which is highly sought after in the binocular design.

Weather Resistance
Nikon 8245 is very comfortable to use and focus in right on top of your subject while holding onto what Nikon calls “Rubber-Armored Coating” which allows you to keep that firm and steady grip at all times no matter the conditions

Amazon Link
$106.95

6. Vanguard ED 1042

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$203.88
Vanguard ED 1042
Amazon Link

The open bridge on this Vanguard pair makes usage a little more comfortable and the qualities below Vanguard backs these with a complete lifetime warranty. So lets put them through the wringer and see how they do.

Read more

Value
This particular pair is actually reasonably priced for what they offer. You can get all of the fun stuff and not break the bank when going after these babies.

Features
Although just like most on this list, comprise of outstanding ED glass, all weatherproof/fog proof, BAK-4 prisms making the viewing experience a very pleasant experience. Now what sets these apart from the competition is they do all of this great work producing a clear and colorful image but they also do it in low light conditions and do it well. The view you get while looking down range from these is actually not bad. It offers an exceptionally wide area to view from and to top it off they do well up close and personal as well as distant as you need to be. The quality of this Vanguard pair shows that sometimes to get all the good things you want you have to sacrifice something and that is the weight. If you want to compare to the others and get down to the nitty-gritty (which you have to do since most are very close) then these are a tad on the heavy side. That being said they only weigh about 1.6 pounds.

Use
The Endeavor ED 1042’s are not a bad choice for those that want a good quality pair without hitting the bank too much. Besides being on the heavy side and the grip missing from existence these are very recommendable. Especially with a lifetime warranty, you can not really go wrong here.

Weather Resistance
For weather conditions rolling in putting them away is a thought that may cross your mind, well not with these. They are fully water and fog proof. Although there does not seem to be much actual grip to hold onto in a wet situation.

Amazon Link
$203.88

7. Nikon Monarch 7

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$429.00
Nikon Monarch 7
Amazon Link

When it comes to Nikon they are no strangers to the optical game by any means and they keep that reputation going strong. Nikon has been making the Monarch series for a few generations now, improving each one tenfold as they move forward. All of the Monarch’s that Nikon has put out have been spectacular but with the latest Monarch 7, they have outdone themselves thus the top spot on our list.

Read more

Value
These have all of the features anyone would want or need while doing so at the highest of qualities and it shows in the price. These are expensive and not for you if you are not going to be using them either for something that you only need them every few weeks or months. That being said, you get what you pay for and these have everything.

Features
The Dielectric high reflective prism they have applied to the lenses allows for the ultimate contrast and true color experience. And if that wasn’t enough they went the extra mile to use extra-low dispersion glass that is non-reflective glass that cuts down on glare. While most pairs these days are pretty lightweight these are no exception. Coming in at a weight of merely 1.3 pounds they are near the lowest of weights in their class.

Use
Very large Field of view is sort of an understatement when it comes to this viewing area. Some have said there may be a slight blurring on the complete outer edge but when we are talking about the edge we are literally talking about a very small and minuscule portion that doesn’t seem to be much of an issue if at all. Not to mention it holds one of the widest fields of views out on the market today.

Weather Resistance
If you were to ask for more out of the weatherproofing on these you would be asking for the impossible. They are completely water and fog proof keeping them in working condition even in the most wicked storms mother nature has to offer. The fear of dropping these are not an issue whatsoever with their non-slip, rubber, all-weather coating.

Amazon Link
$429.00

8. Celestron 71404 TrailSeeker

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$259.95
Celestron 71404 TrailSeeker
Amazon Link

To the naked eye, the Celestron pair looks pretty simple and yet that is what makes it so beautiful. Celestron’s sleek design not only is appealing but they have managed to pack in many great features. These might be a better option for you if you just want a pair for weekend viewing and not all of the time.

Read more

Value
The Celestron pair is pretty decently priced. Considering all of the high-quality components that are included it’s a great deal and definitely stays on the lower end of today’s products on the market.

Features
The field of view is more than good it amazing. The extremely wide field of view allows for minimal movement back and forth to look at objects because everything tends to be in view up close and far away. Just when you think it couldn’t get any better, the weight is only 1.45 pounds and is about the size of the average cell phone! It keeps everything compact and at the ready any time you may need to look down range. All and all this product is pretty darn good. Its everything you would want although I would be cautious about the whole not being fog proof ordeal. If you are not going to be in wet conditions then these are highly recommended!

Use
The Celestron pair comes with phase and dielectric coatings on their BAK-4 prisms. The color quality you get from this pair is defiantly above par. Not only were the colors nice and vivid but the clarity was outstanding as well.

Weather Resistance
This is where this particular pair falls apart. Not only does the body not have much if any grip to hold on in different conditions, but these are not fog proof which is a huge deal. That being said these are waterproof so it didn’t completely fall short.

Amazon Link
$259.95

9. Bushnell Legend Ultra HD M-Series

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Bushnell Legend Ultra HD M-Series
Amazon Link

The Bushnell brand has been around this market for some time and they know what they are doing. This Bushnell pair can be used for everything from bird watching, to hunting, and any other outdoors enthusiast’s desire and does it well across the spectrum.

Read more

Value
While looking for the right pair you might find yourself getting up there in the price you will find these near the top of the list for what you are getting. For this price, you may want to keep looking. Although they are one of the more expensive choices for the quality you get they are by no means a bad purchase. These will get you through any type of activity and do it well since they are so versatile. If you will be jumping tasks often then definitely take these into consideration.

Features
The field of view is by no means small yet it is nothing to bat an eye at. It is definitely just mid ranged ranking amongst the other products out there. This is one of the only places where they are not bad but just don’t shine.

Use
This particular pair includes ED Prime Glass allowing for a pretty good view down range. The dielectric coating allows up to about 92% of light transmission making the subject very visible in any condition.

Weather Resistance
The weatherproofing is a focal point on the Bushnell pair. With what they call their complete rainguard it will stand up to any water or fog you throw its way. That being said the body seems pretty slick and doesn’t have much to hold onto.

Amazon Link

10. Vortex Optics Vulture HD

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$449.99
Vortex Optics Vulture HD
Amazon Link

When it comes to quality and reliability Vortex Optics has you covered. Their products are so trusted that in some places even law enforcement relies on Vortex Optics’ HD line of sight and for good reason. Every piece used to make the Vortex Optics Vulture is all high-quality material both in durability and in utilization.

Read more

Value
The price of these is absolutely ridiculous. Why their price is so high for such a mediocre product is beyond us but if the law enforcement buys them they must get some business.

Features
For the weight, it is another one that you might want to look away. These bad boys come in at an astonishing 2.5 pounds and are very bulky. Recommending these to a friend or family member would be cruel and unusual punishment maybe save it for that guy at the office that annoys you that you can pawn it off on him as a joke. But all joking aside the quality of the image is decent but there are so many other downsides that do not out weight the good or the product itself.

Use
Outstanding HD images are produced by these along with anti-reflective lens coating to prevent glare. They brag to have enhanced resolution and contrast. Field of view for these are once again nothing special. They are not bad by any means but they do not stand out against the competition.

Weather Resistance
These have not specifications on being water or fog proof which is a huge concern. But they do very well against dirt, oil, and scratches.

Amazon Link
$449.99