This amount of power is more than enough to pick out craters on the moon, features on the planets and even good views of interstellar objects. If you’re looking for the best binoculars for kids, we recommend compact binoculars such as those within the 8×20, 8×25, 10×20 or 10×25 range. These smaller models are easier for children to handle, and provide a clear view with minimal adjustments. Due to their portability and light weight, items in this range are often also the best binoculars for safari trips on which space efficiency is essential. Weighing only 560 grams, these Adasion binoculars are lightweight, and this makes them suitable for adults and kids. Their 12×42 magnification is perfect for people who want to use their binoculars for a range of activities too, be that birdwatching, star and moon gazing, or hiking trips.

Nikon Action EX 12×50 binoculars

Though they’re not made of the best available glass, the large objective lenses and 10x magnification make them a great choice for budding astronomers. There are numerous impressive features on the Opticron Adventurer T WP 8×42 binoculars considering their budget price point. Their Porro prism design is just one of them, and the fact they make use of high-quality BaK-4 glass which allows for beautifully clear and colorful views. As a bonus, they are dew-resistant, waterproof and have a coating of rubber armor — all things that are very useful in the hands of occasionally clumsy children. You’ll also find a neck strap, lens covers and a carrying case in the box to help keep the binoculars protected when not in use. Eye relief on a set of binoculars is very important if you use glasses.

• The best compact zoom binoculars, the Barska AB12542 is a model with a variable feature.
• This means users can more easily stay focused on their subject matter and need to worry less about maintaining a steady hand.
• The result is a sharp image with decent optical resolution even when held in a shaky hand.
• Fair enough, but for those hunters looking for a combination of outsized optical performance in a very trim package, this binocular fits just about anywhere.
• I fundamentally don’t want a busy display or a galaxy of ballistic choices in an optic that is primarily configured for hunting.
• Whereas, if it is larger, you will not take advantage of all the light that the targets are able to capture.

How to choose the best binoculars for you

It’s important to keep in mind that zoom binoculars won’t be able to achieve quite the same level of resolution as standard single binoculars. We evaluated each pair on how easy they were to adjust, how comfortable they were to hold, and how well they performed in different conditions. We also noted how easy they were to pack and travel with, as well as any signs of wear and tear at the end of the testing period.

On the other hand, if you like to sit on your balcony and watch the boats go buy or do a bit of stargazing, the biggest pair possible on a good tripod will be just the thing. If you like to go for long walks on sunny days, a good compact pair will save you carrying around a lot of heavy glass that you don’t need. If you venture out in all weathers, or on small boat, you will need a gas-filled pair that will keep out the fog and moisture. They are built to the same standard, and with the same Image Stabilisation and Weatherproof technologies, as Canon’s professional lenses. A smooth focusing action down to close distances will cost you more than a less ambitious construction.

Interpupillary Distance (IPD)

One thing I was disappointed with with the Nikon Prostaff was the quality of the accessories. For the extra you pay for these binoculars, you would expect rubber lens caps but unfortunately they are the same plastic covers you get Thebinocularsite.com with cheaper models. It’s not a deal breaker for me, but I would have expected more for the money.