For birdwatching, we recommend specialized birdwatching binoculars. However, the higher the magnification, the harder it is to keep the image steady. At very high magnifications, a spotting scope is often the better choice.
Many binoculars come with foldable or rotating eyecups, known as eyeglass wearer eyepieces. Make sure that the eye relief is at least 13 mm. This allows you to view the entire field of vision even while wearing glasses.
For hiking, we recommend lightweight models with an objective lens diameter of up to 34 mm. An 8x or 10x magnification is ideal – this keeps the field of view wide and the image easy to stabilize.
Make sure to choose waterproof models if you're hiking in humid climates or variable weather.
Not necessarily. While higher magnification allows you to see more details, it also makes the image less stable and darker. Often, 7x to 10x magnification is the most suitable.
- The first number indicates the magnification (here: 8x).
- The second number describes the objective lens diameter in millimeters (here: 42 mm).
Formula: (Objective lens diameter ÷ magnification)² Example: 42 ÷ 8 = 5.25 → 5.25² = 28
The light-gathering ability provides a guideline for the brightness of the image.
However: High-quality coatings and types of glass can be more important than the calculated value.
However: High-quality coatings and types of glass can be more important than the calculated value.
It serves as a comparison value for the ability to distinguish details in low light conditions. The higher the number, the better the performance at dawn or dusk.
Calculation: √(magnification × objective lens diameter).
Calculation: √(magnification × objective lens diameter).
Binoculars with a large objective lens diameter and 7x or 8x magnification are recommended. This helps maintain a detailed image even during evening or morning twilight.
- BK-7 (Borosilicate glass): Standard, good imaging performance
- BaK-4 (Barium crown glass): Higher quality, rounder exit pupils, brighter and more contrast-rich image
- Porro prisms: wider design, more vivid image, often more affordable
- Roof prisms: slim, compact design, very precisely ground
Lens coatings reduce light loss and enhance contrast.
Lens coatings:
- Fully coated
- Multi-coated
- Fully multi-coated
- Fully broadband multi-coated
Special prism coatings:
- URC coating
- Dielectric coating
Special coatings:
- e.g., hydrophobic – water and dirt bead off
ED glass (Extra Low Dispersion) reduces chromatic aberration (color fringing) and provides bright, true-to-life images.
Binoculars filled with nitrogen or argon are fog-free on the inside and ready for use even with temperature fluctuations.
The field of view describes the width of the visible area at a distance of 1000 meters, e.g., 101 m/1000 m. Higher magnification means a smaller field of view.
The eyepieces are not interchangeable on this model. An alternative would be a spotting scope.
Not absolutely necessary, but highly recommended. Especially in rain, fog, or high humidity, a waterproof binocular remains reliable to use.
