Buying Binoculars for Birding
10/18/15
By David Brown
Binoculars are the most important tool for looking at birds so here are my tips on choosing the right ones. I think the best starting point for shopping is 8x42 binoculars from a reputable brand that cost a few hundred dollars. Binoculars are described by their magnification and the diameter of their front lenses so 8x42 means that the magnification is 8 times and the front lenses are each 42 millimeters in diameter.
The most common magnifications for birding are 8x and 10x. Don't assume that higher magnification is better. Lower magnification gives a larger field of view for finding birds, an overall brighter image, and reduces the effects of shake from unstable hands. The benefit of higher magnification is that everything appears larger which may be more pleasing and can make it easier to see small details. I would not recommend going lower than 6x or higher than 10x for general birding binoculars.
The diameter of the front lenses, also known as the objective lenses, affects how much light is gathered and how big and heavy the binoculars are. Forty-two millimeters is a typical size. If weight is not an issue and the binoculars will be used in low-light conditions then fifty millimeters is a logical choice. If portability is more important than image brightness then thirty-two millimeters is a good choice.
Price is a limiting factor for many people. I recommend spending at least a few hundred dollars because that will get you a pair of binoculars with decent build and optical quality that is probably waterproof and has some sort of warranty. If buying cheaper binoculars make sure to read reviews to make sure they will be adequate. Once you get above a few hundred dollars the main difference is optical quality. Top of the line binoculars cost thousands of dollars and provide unbelievable views. It is often said that if you can not afford high end binoculars do not even try them because you will just end up disappointed at the ones you can afford.
I recommend trying binoculars at a store before buying because even if the specifications and price seem perfect on paper, different binoculars will fit your face and hands differently and you will get a feel for the weight. If you wear glasses you need to make sure they have adequate eye-relief to see the full image. I don't recommend zoom binoculars, ones with built-in cameras, very high magnification, or any other gimmicks.
The best binoculars are the ones that fit your own needs and budget. If you have only used cheap binoculars you had laying around the house then even spending a few hundred dollars will be a huge improvement. More expensive binoculars are often seen as an investment and can be used for decades. No matter what binoculars you have the most important thing is to get out and enjoy looking at birds with them.
