Best Binoculars (Review & Buying Guide) in 2022

Our Methodology

In order to choose our picks for the best binoculars, we took a look at the different types of binoculars–and binoculars made for different kinds of outdoor activities–available online and compared them. We specifically looked for binoculars that offered versatility for everything from water sports to sporting events to bird watching to hunting, comparing them to one another based on their lenses, construction, magnification and zoom, waterproofing, or water-resistance, and their ability to offer clear, crisp vision. We also sought out binoculars that offered extra benefits or features that could be helpful out in the field, from carrying pouches to anti-slip grip to tripods.

Why Trust Us

Our reviews are driven by a combination of hands-on testing, expert input, “wisdom of the crowd” assessments from actual buyers, and our own expertise. We always aim to offer genuine, accurate guides to help you find the best picks.

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Best Binoculars Reviews & Recommendations

Our Verdict on Binoculars

For one of the best pairs of binoculars with a wide field of vision and an excellent exit ratio, check out the Gosky Roof Prism Binoculars. Check out the Aurosports Folding High Powered Binoculars for a less expensive pair with a comfortable grip and long-distance view.

What to Consider When Buying Binoculars

Binoculars come in many different forms and can be specialized for particular outdoor adventures and activities. So, where should you start if you’re looking for a new pair? We’ve got all of the advice you need to find a quality pair of binoculars no matter what kind you’re looking for or how you'll use them.

Types of Binoculars

Roof Prism

This type of binocular tends to be smaller and more durable than a Porro prism binocular. They are slim, stylish, easier to hold, and are typically more durable than Porro prism binoculars with identical specifications. However, roof prism binoculars are often more expensive because producing and adjusting the prism requires advanced technology.

Porro Prism

These binoculars were invented by Italian Ignazio Porro in the mid-19th century. They produce brighter images than roof prism binoculars. They are also more affordable and are generally of good quality overall. On the downside, they tend to be a little larger and are not particularly comfortable to hold for long periods of time.

Binoculars Key Features

Magnification

To determine the magnification, look at the number written with the "x." For example, if a product says 10x, it means the subject is magnified 10 times. If you use binoculars with 10x magnification, a bird 100 meters away will appear as though it is just 10 meters away. The best binoculars have a magnification between 7x and 12x. Products with a higher magnification will require a tripod for a clearer image.

Objective Lens Diameter

The size of the objective lens is important because it regulates how much light enters the binoculars. For example, an objective lens with a larger diameter produces better images in low-light conditions. To determine the lens size, look at the "mm" after the x. A ratio of five in connection to the magnification is preferred, i.e., 8x40 is better than 8x25 because it produces brighter and clearer images.

Lens Coating and Quality

The lens coating permits a maximum amount of light to infiltrate the binoculars and reduces the amount of light that is reflected. A higher-quality lens will produce more contrast and less aberration. Better lenses can operate in low-light conditions because they can transmit more light. A good set of lenses also prevents distortion and washed-out colors.

Field of View and Exit Pupil

The field of view is indicated in degrees and is the diameter of the area you see through the binoculars. The bigger the field of view, the more area you can observe. The exit pupil is the lens diameter divided by the magnification. It is the image you see on the eyepiece.

IP or IPX Rating

Binoculars can be water-resistant or waterproof, and there’s an easy way to tell if they’re actually waterproof: the IP or IPX rating. Mentioned in product descriptions and on the packaging, you’ll see ratings like IPX8 or IP7. The higher the number, the more waterproof a product really is. IP0 or IPX0, for example, means a pair of binoculars can’t tolerate any water exposure. IPX7 and IPX8 are the highest rankings, and these mean a product is actually, truly waterproof.

Binoculars Benefits

Versatile

You can use binoculars for a wide variety of activities, including bird-watching, hiking, sporting events, and concerts. They're the perfect companion if you want a close-up view of faraway objects.

Affordable

If you are interested in stargazing, you can save a lot of money by purchasing binoculars instead of a telescope. Plus, you can buy several pairs of binoculars so more than one person can view the moon and stars at the same time.

Easy to use

Compared to telescopes, binoculars are much simpler to operate. Plus, many people feel more comfortable looking at the night sky using both eyes instead of squinting to see through a telescope.

Portable

If you're planning an outdoor adventure, you want to carry as little gear as possible so you're not weighed down. The best binoculars are small and convenient to carry and pack.

Binoculars Pricing Considerations

Several brands of small, lightweight, and compact binoculars cost less than $50. However, they don't produce images with high resolution or have as large fields of view compared to more expensive products. You can find several standards, mid-size, and full-size binoculars priced between $100 and $300. Many are waterproof with rugged designs and suitable for low-light conditions and night vision. Or, you can spend as much as a couple of thousand dollars on high-end binoculars with superior quality optics, high magnification levels, and larger fields of view.

Tips and Tricks

As with something you do for decades upon decades, you pick up a few tips and tricks along the way in terms of selecting the right product, and/or using it. That’s the case with us and binoculars. To help you bridge the information gap, here’s a selection of what we’ve learned along the way.

FAQs 

You’ve got questions. The Drive has answers!

Q: How do I determine the exit ratio on a pair of binoculars?

You take the two numbers and divide them together to get the exit ratio or exit pupil. For instance, using the ratio above, you would take 50 and divide it by 10 to get 5.0.

Q: Can I use binoculars with glasses?

Yes, as long as the eyecups are large enough. You should still be able to see through smaller eyecups, but they may not be as comfortable. If you wear glasses, you should get a pair of binoculars with a wider field of view and comfortable rubber eyecups. You may also be able to attach different cups to the binoculars for a better view. If you wear glasses because you have astigmatism, you can also find binoculars that offer an astigmatism adjustment feature built right in, which can be an added perk to help you see clearly and easily.

Q: Is higher magnification always better?

While higher magnification allows you to see over longer, further distances with clarity and ease, it isn’t always a good idea to pick a pair of binoculars with the highest possible magnification. For certain activities, magnification isn’t the sole goal. For example, if you’re watching wildlife or on a safari, high magnification will help you see over great distances. But if you’re out on the water in a kayak or whale watching, you’ll actually want to choose a lower magnification because high magnification can make it difficult to steady your vision.

Q: What’s the difference between multi-coated and fully coated binoculars?

If a pair of binoculars is labeled “fully coated,” then they’re covered in a magnesium fluoride coating on the lenses and internal components or surfaces. Multi-coated binoculars, on the other hand, are covered in multiple thin layers of different coatings beyond just magnesium fluoride. Therefore, choosing multi-coated binoculars can help you get better light transmission and contrast.