If you are a twitcher or you are a safari guide and need the best binoculars for bird watching, you have come to the right place.
These devices allow you to view the mission at hand – be it bird watching, leisure, or exploratory nature. Binoculars are also durable, lightweight, and they give a powerful, crystal-clear glimpse of rare birds at longer distances and in wide-open areas.
Unfortunately, there are too many binoculars in the market today, making it hard for a first-time buyer to find the perfect binoculars for bird watching. This buying guide will help you ease your shopping time and decision-making and ensure you make the best choice.
Let’s get started…
12 Best Binoculars for Bird Watching- Top Reviews for 2021
1. Nikon Monarch 7 8X42 Nature Binocular
The Nikon Monarch 7 binocular gives bird lovers an excellent strike of balance between the value and quality of images you get. This powerful binocular features an objective lens diameter of 7 8X42.
The sticking aspect about it is that it uses low dispersion glass to project clear images in their true and vivid colors. Besides, it functions perfectly in low-light situations while maintaining the images’ original colors in view.
The design also includes durable rubber coating that offers a comfortable grip feels in your hands. Apart from being durable, it is also waterproof, fog-proof, and performs excellently in all situations.
Pros
- Large fields of view
- Waterproof & fog proof
- It is lightweight
- Gives razor-sharp images
- Ideal for glasses wearers
Cons
- The lens cap does not stay on correctly
2. Celestron Nature DX 8X42 Birding Binocular
When looking for a suitable binocular for bird watching, consider the Celestron Nature DX 8X42 Birding Binocular. This device is designed with a perfect combination of quality imaging and value.
Thanks to its 8X42 lens diameter, the Celestron Nature Birding Binocular will magnify images that are far away, bringing them closer to your eyes and your desired size. Further, its build quality is one that you will admire.
It has an excellent field of view and a durable design that withstands all weather and wear and tear.
Pros
- Fairly affordable
- Suitable for glasses wearers
- Withstands all weather conditions
- Lightweight and solidly built
Cons
- Not perfect on low-light conditions
- Not meant for heavy outdoor use
3. ZEISS Conquest HD 8X42 Binoculars
ZEISS Conquest HD 8X42 Birding Binocular is another perfect companion for the birdwatcher. Its design features a perfect blend of value and quality images, and it’s made with visual perfection in mind.
The device does not shy away from the performance, even in low-light situations. What’s more? ZEISS features a powerful 8x magnification level and a lens diameter of 42mm, which is ideal for use at dusk, dawn, and night.
Pros
- Perfect low-light performance
- Has fast focus knob
- Ideal for eyeglasses wearers
- Comfortable design with a sure grip
Cons
- Does not come with a strap.
4. Vortex Optics Diamondback HD Binoculars
For twitchers who wear eyeglasses and are looking for ideal binoculars for bird watching, the Vortex Optics Diamondback HD Binoculars offer you a superior option. It is fitted with super quality adjustable eyecups that will provide the perfect fit for your spectacles.
Besides, the device is made of rugged, durable rubber armored construction suitable for outdoor use. The design also features an o-ring seal, which affirms that this device is indeed shockproof and waterproof.
Moreover, it comes with multi-coated lenses to help reduce light. Its 393 feet field of view will give you a closer view of the objects, bringing them five feet closer.
Pros
- Flexible eyecups
- Fog-proof construction
- Multi-coated lenses
Cons
- Limited magnification
- Diopter only adjust the right lens
5. Zeiss 8X25 Terra ED Compact Pocket Binocular
Zeiss is well known for its cutting-edge performance. This lightweight, compact pocket binocular is one of the best options on the market. With a weight of 68lbs, it will fit perfectly in your trouser’s pocket and comes at an affordable price.
The device features an 8x magnification and a 25mm objective lens diameter that will give you a closer view of the action on the ground, even if it’s miles away.
Besides, it has a comfortable grip and feels great in your hands. Its focus knobs also turn easily, and its lenses are covered in Zeiss’ trademark Hydrophobic Zeiss MC to optimize image clarity.
Suppose you are a bird lover who is always on the move and wouldn’t want to hang a heavy binocular on your shoulder but maintain a quality view of images. In that case, Zeiss 8X25 Terra ED Compact Pocket Binocular will be your best companion.
Pros
- Weighs .68 lbs
- Waterproof
- Great field of view
- Smooth focus knob
Cons
- Low-light performance
6. Leica Trinovid 10X42 HD Bird Watching Binocular
This binocular has an excellent 10x magnification level, 42mm lens diameter, along with a perfect 355ft @ 1,000 yards field of view that gets images close enough to you. Leica Trinovid 10X42 HD Bird Watching Binocular is ideal for bird watching and sports optics.
The device uses HD glass technology that gives you crisp, clear, sharp, and brilliant images in vivid colors. Its design includes a unique adventure-strap carrying system, which comes in handy in holding the binocular firmly to your body while hunting or hiking.
Pros
- It gives sharp and vibrant images
- Waterproof & fog-proof
- Great field of view at 10x
Cons
- Expensive for some users
7. Vortex Optics 10×50 Viper HD Binocular
Vortex Optics 10×50 Viper HD Binocular is one of the top-ranked binoculars for bird watching with a 10x magnification level and 50mm objective lens diameter. This device is built to last you a lifetime.
It falls in the category of mid-range binoculars. It is lightweight, compact, and features HD glass and an impressive close focus range. Besides, this binocular is made from durable fog-proof and waterproof material.
Despite it being small and compact, the binocular’s image quality cannot be compromised. Vortex Optics Viper HD Binocular is a trusted companion for enthusiast birdwatchers, hunters, or tour guides who enjoy the outdoors in the most extreme conditions.
Pros
- Weighs 1.5 lbs
- Waterproof and fog-proof
- Great close focus
Cons
- Limited field of view
8. Celestron Trailseeker ED 10X42 Binoculars
Now you can enjoy bird watching even in the most extreme conditions with this Celestron Trailseeker ED 10X42 bird watching Binocular. The device features a powerful 10x magnification level with a 42mm lens that guarantees excellent performance even in a low-light setting.
Most outstandingly, it uses an objective lens extra-lo dispersion glass that enhances light exposure for a crystal-clear image view.
Celestron Trailseeker ED 10X42 bird watching Binocular is praised for its industrial-grade design and armored body that adds to its robust build quality, thus guaranteeing a lifetime use. The body is waterproof, and it can withstand wear and tear even when it is dropped down or dipped in water.
Furthermore, it has an eyecup that is adjustable and has built-in padding to give you extra eye relief while viewing.
Pros
- Armored body
- Industrial design
- Adjustable eyecups
- Waterproof chassis
- True-to-life colors
Cons
- Its tripod adapter is sold separately.
9. Vortex Optics Razor HD Roof Prism Binoculars
Do you plan on buying a binocular for bird watching, and do you have money to spend on it? Consider going for the Vortex Optics Razor HD Roof Prism Binoculars. This binocular offers a powerful 8x maximum magnification with a 42mm objective lens diameter. It is suitable for beginners and experienced twitchers obsessed with viewing quality and clear images that are far from them.
Moreover, the design is made with an anti-reflective coating that helps to reduce glare while viewing an object. Its magnesium body provides a stable and durable binocular cover that withstands all weather elements.
The o-ring system offers excellent waterproofing while its rugged, rubber-coated cover protects against dirt, oils, and scratches. The device is also fog-proof.
Pros
- Waterproof construction
- 8x magnification, 42mm lenses
- Resistant to dirt, oil, and scratches
Cons
- Does not come with a protective case
10. Swarovski Optics 8.5X42 EL Bird Watching Binocular
The next time you may want to think of carrying a binocular for your bird-watching adventure, think of Swarovski Optics 8.5X42 EL Bird watching Binocular.
This gadget features an 8.5x magnification level and 42mm lens diameter that perfectly zooms on subjects too far away. It also offers a 20mm field of view that provides relief to your eyes, especially during long viewing sessions.
Further, it comes with an objective lens cover and an eyepiece cover to help protect the lenses when the device is not in use.
Pros
- 42mm diameter, 20mm exit pupil eye relief
- Comes with a lift carrying strap.
Cons
- Protective cover not included
11. Vanguard Endeavor ED II 8X42 Binocular
Beauty with quality is the quote that can describe this handy but powerful device. It effortlessly enlarges on subjects far away thanks to its 8x magnification level and 42 x lenses. Therefore, when you step out for bird watching, sightseeing or hunting, drag Vanguard Endeavor ED II 8X42 Binocular along with you.
This gadget is lightweight and weighs only 27.16 ounces, making it ideal for carrying anywhere. Besides, it uses a Premium HOYA ED glass element that comes in handily to reduce any chromatic aberration in your view.
Most outstandingly, the binocular offers an open-bridge design that aids in reducing its weight as it provides a more comfortable grip while holding on it or carrying it around your neck.
What’s more, the device has the power to resist fog, water, shock, and even dust thanks to its durable protective casing.
Pros
- 42mm objective lens diameter
- Lightweight design
- Open-bridge design
- Comfortable grip
Cons
- The open bridge design means a complete construction.
12. Athlon Optics Midas Proof Prism UHD Binoculars
Thanks to its waterproofing design, Athlon Optics Midas Proof Prism UHD Binoculars is an ideal partner for bird watching in environments with rains and rivers. This device features an 8× magnification level and a 42mm lens diameter system.
It has an ESP dielectric coating on its lenses which helps protect it against up to 99% of reflections. This gives you a more precise, bright, and vivid view of the birds in view. Additionally, it provides an HD viewing experience for accurate color reproduction.
Pros
- Anti-reflective lens coating
- It uses a roof prism
- Accurate color reproduction
Cons
- It needs a separate adapter to use a tripod.
Things to Consider When Buying the Best Binoculars for Bird Watching
Magnification
Magnification is an essential factor to consider as it’s the main reason you are purchasing binoculars. A good magnification will provide you with a clear view of the birds without blurring their images or zooming too much.
Lens Diameter
An ideal lens diameter for bird-watching binoculars should be above 42mm. This will allow for sufficient light to get into your binoculars to create clear images. Other standard lens diameters are 24 mm, 50 mm, and 56 mm. Although it is possible to use any objective lens, one disadvantage of lenses with small diameters is that they will not perform well in low light as opposed to large lenses.
Field of View
The field of view is another factor you need to keep in mind. A field of view determines the size of images that flows into the frames at a distance. It also aids in easy tracking of birds while in action.
In some devices, you will find the field of view indicated as an angle of 7.0O or in measurement such as 350 ft @ 1,000yds.
Weather-Proof
Since these devices are used in outdoor activities throughout the year, you should consider buying a binocular that can withstand all the weather elements. For example, if moisture, dust, or water gets into your lenses, it will ruin your bino, making you incur an extra cost of repairing them. Therefore, consider going for dustproof, fog proof, and shockproof models.
Close Focus
Lastly, it would be best to buy a binocular for bird watching that can focus on objects within 5-8 feet away. This will give you a clear and closer view of the birds, even if they are meters away from you.
Summary
Having listed some of the best binoculars for bird watching in the market today, we are confident that the information will help you determine which binocular is worth your investment.
In addition, all the binoculars listed above offer the best image quality and are protected by a lifetime warranty. This assures you that the device you intend to buy will serve you for a lifetime as it gives you incredible bird-watching memories.
Tickled Tails 