15 best binoculars

Review of the best according to the editorial board. On the selection criteria. This material is subjective and does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.

The optical instruments of binoculars are used everywhere: on hunting and fishing, at sports facilities and in the theater, on land and at sea for easy navigation. There are night modifications with the ability to see in the absence of light, as well as telescopes and monoculars for observing with one eye.

How to choose binoculars

The selection of binoculars is huge. How do I find the right model for a particular case?

Lens size

The diameter, measured by the outer large lens, can be between 18 and 110 mm. The amount of light entering the device depends on the parameter, respectively, the brightness, clarity and accuracy of the resulting image.

1. Lens less than 30 mm in diameter are binoculars for children and theatergoers;
2. d = 30 … 40 mm – for observing sports competitions in stadiums, for fish while fishing;
3. d = 40 … 60 mm – for orienteering, tourism, hunting;
4. d = 60 mm and more – use at considerable distances, including for observing space objects.

Prism type

Prisms are of two types:

1. Porro (broken line), binoculars have a wide body, in which reflective systems are located to transmit the light beam at an angle of 450. The device is suitable for observing distant objects and objects where tracking distance and movement is important.
2. Roof is a sophisticated reflection system for obtaining the most accurate image, suitable for binoculars for precise viewing, for example, in theater, tourism.

Approximation

One of the key parameters of an optical approximation device, its minimum value is 2, is found in toy binoculars. A value of 10-12 times is suitable for tourists and hunters, 12-25 – for biologists, hunters, astronomers and other researchers.

When choosing a magnification, it is important to take into account the distance: different models work at different distances with the ability to approach up to 40 times, include a field of view of different widths. For the convenience of hunters and sportsmen, it is rational to choose optics with a distance scale applied to the lens.

There are other parameters of choice, such as angular and linear fields of view, enlightenment and pupil diameter, but these are professional aspects.

The portal experts have compiled a rating of the best binoculars in several categories, based on the technical characteristics of the devices and user reviews.

Rating of the best binoculars

Nomination	a place	Name of product	price
Best binoculars for hunting and tourism	1	Canon 8×25 IS	RUB 17,722
	2	Nikon Aculon A211 8-18×42	RUB 9 299
	3	LEVENHUK Bruno PLUS 20×80	RUB 17,679
	4	Zeiss Terra ED 10×42	RUB 27,990
	5	Yukon Pro 10x50WA	RUB 5 563
	6	BRESSER HUNTER 8-24X50	RUB 5,090
Best binoculars for night observation	1	Yukon Tracker 2×24 LT	RUB 23,100
	2	PULSAR Edge GS 2.7×50	RUB 32,300
The best theater binoculars	1	Veber Opera BGC 3×25 lorgnette	RUB 1,519
Best spotting scopes	1	Yukon 6-100×100	RUB 13,380
	2	KOMZ ZT 8-24×40 “Zenitsa”	RUB 5 600
	3	BRESSER Spektar 9-27×50	RUB 9 603
Best monoculars	1	Zeiss Monocular 10×25 T	RUB 21,990
	2	KOMZ MP 15×50	RUB 3,340
	3	Veber Monty 18×70	RUB 4629

Best binoculars for hunting and tourism

Optics for orientation in space and search for prey should focus well, provide visibility of objects at significant distances, but such binoculars are not particularly clear for viewing images.

Canon 8×25 IS

Rating: 4.9

The absolute leader in the rating is the lightweight and compact Canon 8×25 IS binoculars with 8x zoom and optical stabilization. Its body is made of durable plastic, rubberized on the outside for convenience. Diopters are adjustable within ± 3.0. The rubber eyecups are convenient for those who wear glasses – the attachments can be adjusted as needed, as well as the distance between the pupils within 56… 72 mm.

A wide view from 3.5 meters deserves attention: the field of view at a distance of 1 km is 115 meters or 49.5 degrees – this is an excellent result, especially for a hunter, when game needs to be tracked within a wide range, binoculars will also be appreciated by travelers and lovers of large festivals to observe the action on stage. It is noteworthy: the optics themselves stabilize the image, so there is no need to adjust the image once again.

Advantages

• Light weight (just over 500 grams) in a small rubberized case;

• The design is adjustable for the anatomy of any person;

• 6 groups of optical elements for a wide view in 8x zoom;

• Automatic image stabilization.

disadvantages

• The high price is about 19,000 rubles.

Nikon Aculon A211 8-18×42

Rating: 4.8

In second place in the rating is the Nikon Aculon A211 8-18×42 less field-view binoculars, which at a distance of 1000 meters show only 80 meters of terrain with a visible angle of only 350, and the binoculars focusing starts at 13 meters. At the same time, the body is slightly more massive than that of the leader, heavier – more than 800 grams. But there is the possibility of mounting on a tripod, which will be appreciated by naturalists, biologists and hunters, the approximation is also eightfold.

Classic Porro lenses give a three-dimensional image with minimal light loss, for this reason, it is suitable for use at dusk or on a bright night.

The Nikon Aculon A211 8-18×42 body is made of plastic with a rubber coating that protects the device from dust and moisture – you can safely use it even with wet hands.

The cost of the binoculars fully corresponds to the characteristics and is about 10,000 rubles.

Advantages

• Tripod mountable;

• The distance between the pupils is regulated;

• Minimal light absorption and can be used at dusk;

• In general, a good viewing angle at a considerable distance;

• Optimal cost.

disadvantages

• Poor dust protection.

LEVENHUK Bruno PLUS 20×80

Rating: 4.7

Astronomical binoculars, able to optically bring an object up to 20 times, took the third place in the rating of optical devices. Unlike its predecessors, the LEVENHUK Bruno PLUS 20×80 provides a field of view at a distance of 1000 meters of only 56 meters. Retractable lenses are adjustable to fit the anatomy of the beholder's face, and for ease of observation, mount to a tripod is provided – the binoculars are inconvenient to hold in hands due to the large weight of 2.6 kg. The device is designed to study nearby space phenomena and phenomena, but can be used by travelers or hunters if it is necessary to view objects at a considerable distance.

The advantage of the device is dust and moisture protection; the package also provides a case for storing and carrying binoculars.

Advantages

• Multiple zoom 2×20;

• Robust metal housing protects multi-stage optics

• Observation at dusk;

• Tripod mountable.

disadvantages

• Large weight;

• The high price is about 22,000 rubles;

• Narrow field of view.

Zeiss Terra ED 10×42

Rating: 4.6

The Zeiss Terra ED 10×42 binoculars are equipped with a 10x optical system, for which the experts gave it only the fourth place in the rating. But the field of view at a distance of 1 km is all 110 meters with the ability to focus from 1.6 meters. Adjustment ± 4D allows you to focus the picture in the desired clarity with minimal light loss, it is possible to use the device at dusk. The binoculars are optimal for use by hunters when going to familiar animal places. The device will appeal to travelers traveling on familiar routes, as well as fans of sports in stadiums and theatrical performances on stage.

The binoculars weigh a little – 690 grams, the case protects the optics from moisture and dust, you can safely take it with you in any weather conditions. However, given its capabilities, the Zeiss Terra ED 10×42 costs a lot – about 28,000 rubles.

Advantages

• Sensitive optical system;

• Wide field of view;

• Ability to use at dusk;

• Light weight;

• Protected housing.

disadvantages

• High price;

• Not suitable for long distance observation.

Yukon Pro 10x50WA

Rating: 4.5

The brutal design binoculars zoom in ten times, but the field of view is reduced to 105 meters at a distance of 1 km, and the minimum focusing ability is increased to 10 meters. In this case, the diopter adjustment range is ± 5D. The weight is also increased – 1 kg, therefore, to use the device, the canopy will need sturdy hands.

The advantage of the Yukon Pro 10x50WA binoculars is 2 light filters (orange and protective) for use at different times of the day and solar activity, the package includes a cover. The case is plastic, but shockproof, it is protected from moisture. The device is optimal for use in familiar terrain and in the absence of viewing very distant objects.

The cost of the binoculars is consistent with its average characteristics – about 11,000 rubles.

Advantages

• Wide range of diopter adjustment;

• Light filters and case included;

• The optimal width is the field of view at a distance of 1 km;

• Impact resistance;

• Acceptable cost.

disadvantages

• Weight (1 kg);

• No tripod mounts.

BRESSER HUNTER 8-24X50

Rating: 4.5

The BRESSER HUNTER 8-24X50 optical device closes the rating of binoculars for outdoor activities and observations. From the name it is clear – an increase of up to 24 times, but users note the loss of image clarity at the minimum and maximum values. Focusing starts at 8 meters, and the field of view at 1 km is only 78 meters. Binoculars are optimal for use in a medium focus, that is, for observation at a relatively short distance.

The design is adjustable for the peculiarities of the beholder's eyes, there is a tripod mount – a useful feature when the optics weigh 810 grams. There is no special protection against moisture and dust, so users should be careful.

The cost of BRESSER HUNTER 8-24X50 is the lowest – about 6,000 rubles.

Advantages

• Tripod mount;

• Multiple magnification.

disadvantages

• Narrow field of view;

• Problems with the clarity of the picture at the minimum and maximum distances.

Best binoculars for night observation

Ordinary binoculars are not suitable for observing objects or finding the way in the absence of light – most models with low light absorption are only able to work at dusk. Night vision optics are equipped with infrared illumination – invisible rays of the infrared range, invisible to people and animals. This makes hunting and scientific observation of animals more effective.

Yukon Tracker 2×24 LT

Rating: 4.9

The binoculars with built-in infrared illuminator and 2x zoom Yukon Tracker 2×24 LT are designed for professional use by fishermen, hunters, rescuers and construction workers. The device creates visibility even in complete darkness. It is compact and lightweight – only 0.6 kg, it sits comfortably in the hand thanks to the non-slip coating.

The lens caps are not removable, but fold back – there is simply no risk of losing them in the dark. For a comfortable viewing without hitting the green light of the image intensifier optics, the design provides a single soft eyecup that fits snugly to the face during viewing. According to the instructions, binoculars can be used at temperatures from -400C to + 40C – the optimal temperature range for Russia.

For ease of use, LED indicators are located in the observer's field of view, helping to adjust the vision of the picture in a field of 54 meters at a distance from the binoculars 100 meters. The optics require power supply from the built-in 3V element (CR123A), which is fully charged for 10 hours.

Advantages

• Powerful infrared illumination;

• LED sensors;

• Convenient regulation of viewing parameters;

• Capacious battery for powering the IR source.

disadvantages

• Small zoom 2x;

• The high price is about 23,000 rubles.

PULSAR Edge GS 2.7×50

Rating: 4.8

In second place in the category of night vision binoculars rating is the PULSAR Edge GS 2.7×50 device with a stable image quality of a wide field of view with a drop in resolution to the edges of the picture no more than 20%. Electro-optical converters are regulated by built-in sensors and when the illumination level is exceeded, their power supply is cut off, and energy is saved. IR radiation with a wavelength of 780 nm illuminates all objects, even in pitch darkness, that fall into the lens with a 2.7x zoom. The design of the eyepieces and beveled eyecups is designed in such a way that, at any set parameters, the picture is clear and well visible, and the emitted rays are not visible to the surrounding and pursued animals.

The body of the PULSAR Edge GS 2.7×50 binoculars is shock-resistant, moisture-resistant, it is optimal for use by specialists in any field who need to make night observations. True, the device is noticeably heavier than the leader of the rating – it exceeds 800 grams.

Advantages

• Zoom 2.7x;

• Effective image;

• Powered by two AAA batteries;

• Wide view;

• OES regulation.

disadvantages

• High price from 35,000 rubles;

• Perceptible weight;

• Insufficient fit of the eyecups to the face, as some users note.

The best theater binoculars

Although many manufacturers and experts bless ordinary binoculars for going to the theater, going to a cultural place with such a device is inconvenient and not aesthetically pleasing. Compact optical devices in a classic frame have been created especially for theater-goers. In our rating, the best representative of the 'theatrical family'.

Veber Opera BGC 3×25 lorgnette

Rating: 4.9

These exquisite binoculars will be appreciated by regulars of theatrical performances, because it is much more convenient to have your own instrument than to use a public one. Moreover, buying Veber Opera BGC 3×25 lorgnet is not overhead – it costs about 1,500 rubles.

Optics zoom in up to 3x with a 25 mm objective lens. The picture at a distance of 100 meters is wide – 131 m, you can see the action on the entire scene, and not just one character. The body of the lorgnette is metal, but light – only 200 grams, it is convenient to hold it during theatrical performance without fatigue.

Advantages

• Threefold approximation;

• Light weight;

• Interesting and neat design;

• Low price;

• Sharp picture and wide field of view.

disadvantages

• Not defined.

Best spotting scopes

The telescope differs from binoculars in one telescope. As a rule, it is used for static observation of objects, in most cases being fixed on a tripod. Another difference is the more powerful zoom. Spyglasses can be found on observation decks, planetariums, wildlife watching reserves, etc.

Yukon 6-100×100

Rating: 4.9

A spotting scope with a maximum 100x zoom is essentially a beginner's telescope. It is suitable for observing cosmic bodies. A feature of Yukon 6-100×100 is the ability to connect photographic equipment to capture the seen image.

The optical system can be adjusted for approximation from 6 to 100 times with the setting of a high-definition picture with a linear magnifier in the range of 6… 25 times and a lever in the range of 25… 100 times. Viewing is convenient thanks to the eyepiece tilted at an angle of 450, so you can observe objects while standing, sitting, and lying on the ground.

The disadvantage of the device is its instability to negative temperatures, that is, you can use the Yukon 6-100×100 only in the warm season. When used in accordance with the recommendations, the manufacturer provides an unlimited warranty for the optics.

The cost of the Yukon 6-100×100 telescope is about 15,000 rubles.

Advantages

• Approximation 6 … 100 times;

• Tripod mountable;

• Suitable for astronomical observations;

• Convenient beveled swivel eyepiece;

• Lifetime warranty.

disadvantages

• Instability to negative temperatures.

KOMZ ZT 8-24×40 “Zenitsa”

Rating: 4.8

The second place in the rating is the Zenitsa spotting scope – a classic-type folding scope with a rotating optical system and a 3-fold pancratic eyepiece that provides up to 24 times zoom. The kit provides a case with a strap, the pipe can be carried on the shoulder or in the hands – its weight is only 560 grams in the presence of a durable metal case. The optics can be mounted on a tripod for easy observation of objects, but the fasteners are not the most stable and the pipe sways when turning.

The KOMZ ZT 8-24×40 “Zenitsa” has no problems with the clarity of the approach, the picture is well read at any zoom, but at the maximum, an orange tint is visible due to the structure of the lenses. Judging by the reviews, it becomes invisible after getting used to the device. The brightness filter is missing, for example, for observing the moon. The chimney is not as good in freezing temperatures as in the warmth, so in winter it should only be used indoors.

The cost of KOMZ ZT 8-24×40 “Zenitsa” is about 4,500 rubles, it will be useful for schoolchildren and amateur naturalists.

Advantages

• Optimal magnification from 8x to 24x;

• Light weight;

• Optimal cost;

• Installation on a tripod.

disadvantages

• Instability of the tripod mount;

• Chromatism (flashing) was noted.

BRESSER Spektar 9-27×50

Rating: 4.7

The BRESSER Spektar 9-27×50 device with a reduced field of view at maximum zoom closes the rating of spyglasses (up to 70 meters at a distance of 1 km). Optics are convenient for observing single objects moving in the sky and on the ground.

The system's zoom is set in the range of 9 … 27 times, you can look at near and far objects while hunting, fishing, traveling. It is convenient to use the device due to its relatively low weight of 705 grams; if necessary, it can be mounted on a tripod. Can be used at dusk, as well as in extreme conditions of high humidity and heavy traffic (shockproof housing).

The manufacturer gives a 5-year warranty for the BRESSER Spektar 9-27×50 pipe, while the cost of the device is about 10,000 rubles.

Advantages

• Versatility due to wide zoom;

• 5 years warranty;

• High definition of the image at different steps of approximation.

disadvantages

• Not the best build quality;

• Dust still gets inside the case, we attribute it to a factory defect.

Best monoculars

A monocular is a special device for observing distant objects. The advantage of a monocular over binoculars is its compactness and price, as well as a lower zoom. The lack of a field of view is compensated for by turning the head.

Zeiss Monocular 10×25 T

Rating: 4.9

In the first place in this rating is a monocular with a tenx zoom and a 25mm Zeiss Monocular 10×25 T lens. The device is a real mini-hiking tube with a length of only 10 cm and a weight of 88 grams, convenient for travelers, researchers, spectators of concerts and festivals. Optical lenses transmit the image clearly and brightly without significant light loss, which is facilitated by the multi-layer anti-reflective T coating of the Carl Zeiss brand. It also allows you to observe objects even with a lack of light at dusk and cloudy days.

With a compact body, the monocular opens up a wide view – at a distance of 1 km, you can see all 88 meters. The device is suitable for use in any weather at temperatures from -20 to + 40C, in conditions of high humidity.

The price of a miniature and powerful optical device is 21,000 rubles, almost like a full-fledged binocular.

Advantages

• Compact size, can be carried in your pocket;

• Zoom x 10;

• Protected case;

• Effective light coating of lenses;

• Wide view and clear picture.

disadvantages

• High price.

KOMZ MP 15×50

Rating: 4.8

The monocular KOMZ MP 15×50 is on the second place of the rating, which is more functional, but less mobile in comparison with the leader. It brings objects up to 15 times closer through a 50 mm lens, but it weighs half a kilo, and its length is almost 20 cm – you can't put it in your pocket. The device is a compact version of full-fledged binoculars for hunters and explorers. For the convenience of measuring the distance, a dimensional grid is applied to the lens; a field 114 meters wide at a distance of 1 km opens to the observer.

The operating temperature range of the KOMZ MP 15×50 monocular is wide – from -40 to + 500C, this is one of the best results among approximating optical devices in general.

With decent performance similar to binoculars, the monocular costs only 3,900 rubles, which seems incredible. The device is really good, but not as convenient compared to the compact Zeiss Monocular.

Advantages

• Significant approximation;

• Good clarity and wide view;

• Wide temperature range of use;

• Low price.

disadvantages

• Large for a compact monocular;

• Lack of a tripod mount, and with this weight it could be;

• Not quite comfortable eyepiece (rests against the eye, not the bone).

Veber Monty 18×70

Rating: 4.7

The largest exhibit, Veber Monty 18×70, closes the rating of monoculars. He zooms in the image as much as possible in his group – up to 18 times, and at the minimum and maximum the clarity is maintained at a high level. The body is a two-knee retractable tube weighing about 800 grams – this is a real mini-tube, which comes with a tripod, however, only 25 cm high (the universal thread will allow you to install the device on any other camera tripod).

Coated monocular lenses allow observation at dusk. The device is not very convenient for hunters due to its weight, but its zoom is similar to many good binoculars and is convenient for tracking game. The price is also quite affordable – about 4,800 rubles. The Veber Monty 18×70 will appeal to forest explorers as well as novice astronomers.

Advantages

• 18x zoom

• Average view of 63/1000 meters;

• High definition of the picture;

• Tripod included;

• Optimal price.

disadvantages

• Large weight and dimensions for a monocular.

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Attention! This rating is subjective and does not constitute an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.