What are the best binoculars and spotting scopes in 2022

Man is an inquisitive creature, so it is not surprising that he invented binoculars. Time flows, centuries follow each other, and interest in an optical device that allows you to observe distant objects does not fade away. On the contrary, the fields of application of binoculars are expanding. It can be used for professional purposes, military affairs, sporting events, personal hobbies, or just people watching.

The binoculars will be an ideal gift, both for yourself and for a loved one. This thing will definitely not be superfluous. After all, you can take a spotting scope with you on a hike or a theater, or you can watch birds or animals. Or just sit near the window and entertain yourself with the study of street events.

Binoculars or monocular

Before purchasing an optical device, the question arises: "What is better monocular or binoculars?". A monocular is a miniature telescope with a small magnification. They use this device in the same way as a telescope, which means that the observation is done with the help of one eye. The dimensions of the device are minimal, it can easily fit in the palm of your hand, and easily fit into your pocket. Such compactness, of course, is a big plus, but on the other hand, the scope is limited, since you can only direct it to a short distance, for example, at a concert or in a theater. The best device magnification is 5 or 6.

During observation, both eyes are involved in binoculars, thus visual acuity reaches a maximum. In terms of weight, it is heavier than a monocular and will take up more space, so it will not fit in a pocket. But the magnification of the binoculars is at a height and the magnification can be obtained, for example, from 8 to 20.

Criterias of choice

So that the purchase does not bring disappointment, it must be approached thoughtfully.

Binoculars are an important thing, and if you hear that a person is dissatisfied with an optical device, then a mistake was made in the choice.You should not rely entirely on sales assistants who often want to sell goods and give recommendations without even asking, for what purpose is the device being purchased? But the purpose of use is the main selection criterion, since the types of binoculars are different. For example, tourist, hunting, marine, theatrical, children's, etc. It is from this that you need to build on when buying, and, of course, take into account a few more significant criteria.

1. Multiplicity. This word means to enlarge an image by a certain number. X is the multiplicity designation, and the number next to the letter indicates the amount of magnification. As a rule, the larger the number, the heavier the optical device. If you are a hunter, then a magnification of 7 to 10 would be ideal for you, because you don’t have to carry a heavy device, and this increase is quite enough to see the lurking prey. For tourist purposes, a multiplicity of 10 to 15 is perfect.
2. Exit lens diameter. Here, too, everything is simple. The larger the diameter indicator, the better the picture that appears to the eye will be, and all because the aperture ratio and brightness increase. The best indicators of diameter are from 32 to 50 mm.
3. Line of sight. The higher the magnification, the smaller the field of view.
4. Exit pupil diameter. "What it is?" - you ask. This is the ratio of the diameter of the output lens and the magnification. This indicator affects the suitability of an optical device in poor lighting conditions. The higher the value, the less light is required for observation.
5. lens material. Lenses can be glass or plastic. In the first case, the quality is higher.But in the second case, you can not worry about the safety of equipment, crawling through the mountains.

Top Producers

In the modern market there are many different brands, both eminent and little-known. The highest popularity of Nikon models. This well-known Japanese company has long specialized in the production of optical instruments and has already won the respect of customers.

Binoculars and spotting scopes from German companies are also in demand. Brands such as Eschenbach, Bresser, Minox, Omegon have proven themselves well. Russian-made optical optics are also of interest to consumers. Of the good brands, it is worth noting Zenith and KOMZ.

List of the best binoculars for 2022

LEVENHUK Atom 10×50

The field model belongs to the initial level of technology, designed for hunters and fishermen. It has a wide viewing angle (6.8 degrees, at a distance of 1 km shows 115 m) and a universal 10x magnification. The technique can be used even at dusk, as 50mm lenses collect a lot of light. The maximum focusing distance is 16 meters.

Prism "Porro" made of special borosilicate glass VK-7 allows you to adjust the distance between the pupils in the range of 56-72 mm (exit pupil 12 mm). Diopter correction - + 3D.

Design description: 19.8/16.8/6.5 cm rubberized polycarbonate body (significantly reduces the weight of the device without losing strength) with protection against moisture and dust, equipped with a central focus, multi-coated lenses and rubber eyecups. It can be attached to a tripod.

The package includes a bag for convenient carrying and storage of equipment, as well as a strap.

Average price: 3920 rubles.

• quality assembly;
• normal luminosity at dusk (everything is visible);
• inexpensive;
• realistic image transmission;
• comfortable grip;
• it is possible to mount on a tripod through an adapter (sold separately);
• lifetime warranty.

• uncomfortable strap.

Yukon Sideview 10×21

Product size 12.4/9.9/4.5 cm and net weight 190 g with central focusing is equipped with an optical system based on Porro prisms, which, in conjunction with an anti-reflective coating, gives a clear, balanced, contrasting image. Effective search and observation, as well as a panoramic picture provides a 6.5-degree field of view. The 21mm lens gives a 10x magnification, while the minimum focusing distance is 7 meters. Removal of the exit pupil - 7.5 mm. Permissible refocusing of the eyepiece is +5D. The operating temperature of the device is from -20 to +45 degrees.

Design features:

• beveled rubber eyecup - eye protection from side stray light;
• case with SoftTouch coating (does not slip even in wet hands);
• fixed lens caps;
• adjustment of the distance between the pupils.

Additional information: the package includes a storage case and a strap.

Average price: 4000 rubles.

• light;
• mobile;
• fast, convenient setup;
• excellent optics;
• powerful;
• design;
• goods at an affordable price.

• at maximum approximation gives a small viewing angle.

Olympus 8×40 DPS I

Binoculars with central focusing and aspherical lenses with full anti-reflective coating give 8x magnification. The case is black with a special corrugated rubber coating, equipped with a Porro prism.Four optical groups with 6 elements and a real field of view of 8.2 degrees, give an incredible image.

The product has UV protection, a visible angle of 65 degrees, a convenient center dial for quick focusing and built-in diopter correction (+1D).

The device is ideal for watching sports and animals.

Specifications: at a distance of 1 km, the field of view is 143m; maximum focusing distance - 4 meters; lens diameter - 4 cm; overall dimensions (cm): 18.2/13.9/5.8; net weight - 710 g.

Additional information: the distance between the pupils is adjustable from 60 to 70 mm; there is a storage case in the delivery set; relative brightness index 25.

Average price: 5400 rubles.

• value for money;
• the image does not rattle (clear picture);
• compact;
• eyes do not get tired;
• rubberized body does not catch anything;
• there is protection from sun glare;
• light.

• catches glare;
• separate covers.

BRESSER Hunter 8-24×50

Binoculars BRESSER Hunter 8-24×50 are considered to be quite good. It is suitable for a variety of applications: field use, hunting surveillance, theater magnification, etc. Porro prism type, twilight factor 20, pupillary distance can be adjusted. Magnification from 8 to 24. Rubber body, rubber eyecups, multi-coated lenses. The cover is included. The binoculars create an immaculately clear image across the entire field of view. The focus adjustment wheel spins without problems.

Average price: 6000 rubles.

Video demonstration of binoculars:

• image clarity;
• decent quality;
• you can adjust different magnification;
• ease of use.

• with a strong increase, sharpness may be lost;
• there are no large insulating rubber bands.

Canon 8×25 is

An excellent eight-fold lens with optical stabilizer and multi-coated lenses focuses from a minimum distance of 3.5 m. Porro prism type, there is an adjustment between pupils, central focusing. The body of the device is rubberized, and the eyecups are rubber. The dimensions of the device are 120x138x61 mm, the weight does not reach half a kilo. Due to their lightness, the binoculars will not be a burden when hiking or hunting. The image stabilizer avoids the effect of shaking and you can safely enjoy a high-quality, sharp picture. Of the devices with optical stabilization, the Canon 8 × 25 is is considered the lightest and, by the way, much more profitable than its “brothers” at a price.

Price: about 19,000 rubles.

• light and compact;
• easy to use;
• works 6 hours without interruption from batteries;
• there is a lens that allows you to level the image field.

• not suitable for astronomical observations.

Veber Alfa 10×50 WP

The Veber Alfa 10 × 50 WP model has good functionality. This tenfold is perfect for hunting or for tourism purposes. Prism type Porro, adjustment between the pupils of the distance is available, focusing is separate. The lenses are aspherical and multi-coated. The case of the construction is shockproof and properly rubberized, as a bonus there is protection against moisture and dust. The optics have a rangefinder scale. There is no distortion or blurring of images.

Price: about 6000 rubles.

• high quality and durable;
• easy to use;
• good luminosity;
• comfortable grip.

• weighs more than a kilogram;
• uncomfortable large lids.

Nikon Aculon A211 7×35

One of the most popular models of binoculars for buyers is the Nikon Aculon A211 7×35. It is an optical device with a fixed magnification of 7 times. The distance is absolutely not blurred and you can start looking through binoculars from 5 meters. The picture is clear, both near and far.

Focusing of the device is central, lenses are aspherical with multilayer coating. The body of the binoculars is rubberized, the eyecups are retractable and covered with rubber. Weight is small, only 685 grams. The device lies perfectly in the hand, providing a wide field of view. Nikon Aculon A211 7x35 is the perfect choice for hunting or hiking.

Price: about 5500 rubles.

Video review of binoculars:

• Decent quality optics;
• Reliable assembly;
• It is clearly visible even at night;
• Sharp bright image.

• There is slight distortion at the edges of the lenses.

Bresser 22×36

Of the small, so-called pocket binoculars, the Bresser 22×36 model stands out. The compact size and relatively large weight allow you to often carry the binoculars with you. The device is useful in observing birds, animals. It can also be used in everyday life, watching athletes or somewhere at a concert. Magnification 22-fold. The case is rubberized, there is a mount for a tripod. The package includes a convenient case, protective covers for lenses, a special cloth for the care of optics.

Price: 1700 rubles.

• Suitable for travelers and backpackers;
• Pocket size;
• Optimal in price and quality;
• Easy to operate.

• Image shakes slightly.

List of the best spotting scopes for 2022

Veber 25-75×100

The plastic device in a rubberized case with protection against moisture and dust is equipped with retractable rubber eyecups and multi-coated lenses that minimize light loss, give natural color reproduction, high contrast and image clarity.

The design is fixed on a tripod using a ring adapter (provided in the package), has a nitrogen / argon filling (allows you to operate the device in fog, rain and snow) and a threaded connection. A 100mm lens gives a magnification of 27-75x. Prism "Porro" made of high quality glass VAK-4 with eye relief 15-21 mm.

The maximum focusing distance is 5 meters. At a distance of 1 km, the field of view is 17-36 m.

With its size of 13/51/21 cm, the weight of the device with a tripod is 2 kg 450 g.

A case is provided for storage and easy carrying.

Scope of application: observation of natural objects, targets when shooting from a weapon in a shooting range - all this is facilitated by high image quality, a convenient inclined design of the eyepiece, and balanced body proportions.

The lens collects a lot of light, provides excellent visibility at night and daytime, and allows you to make astronomical observations.
The eyepiece, located at an angle of 45 degrees to the optical axis, together with the ring tripod adapter, provide comfort in work: it can rotate around the optical axis to any angle. There is an indicator that snaps the position every 90 degrees.

Features of the device: a swivel-retractable eyecup will allow you to correctly position the point of view relative to the eye even without taking off your glasses; for observation in sunny weather, you can use a retractable hood; for video shooting, the tube can be turned into a powerful telephoto lens.

Average price: 13900 rubles.

• equipment;
• picture quality;
• wide magnification range;
• you can install a camera;
• the pipe is easy to use;
• works in all weather conditions;
• high optical parameters;
• scope;
• quality assembly.

• price.

LZOS Tourist-14 (14-50x60)

The spotting scope is suitable for watching sporting events, a theater performance, prey (for hunters), the sky (astronomers), nature, and the like.

The case is made of high-quality enameled metal, which prevents the device from slipping in your hands. The 60 mm lens has a magnification of 14-50x, allows you to observe objects that are at a distance of 14 m and further at an ambient temperature of -15-+45 degrees.

You can enjoy the maximum performance of the device when using a tripod. For connecting it to a spotting scope, the tube has 2 seats 3/8 and 1/4 inches in size. The real angular field of view is 0.5-3.3 degrees. The exit pupil diameter is 1.2-4.3 mm. Diopter correction - + 5D. The limit of expansion over the entire range of magnifications is 5.5 arc/sec.

Overall dimensions (cm): 6.8 - width, 47.5 - length. Weight - 1 kg.

Average price: 7400 rubles.

• long service life;
• works great in all weather conditions;
• qualitatively assembled;
• picture clarity even in conditions of poor vision;
• light weight;
• good technical base;
• affordable price.

• not identified.

Yukon Scout 30x50WA

The presented model is a combination of high magnification and high luminosity. Light weight, ergonomic body with the ability to mount on a tripod, make the device the best option for lovers of outdoor activities and nature observation. Main scope of application: excursions, hiking, sports competitions, wildlife observation, used in shooting ranges. Overall dimensions of a pipe (see): 7/37/7; net weight - 450 grams. The package includes a storage case.

The case is rubberized, shock-resistant, has protection against moisture and dust. The lenses have a multi-layer coating, which prevents fogging of the optics in various temperature conditions. A 50mm lens gives a 30x magnification. At a distance of 1 km, the field of view is 40 m. The diameter of the exit pupil is 1.7 mm. The maximum focusing distance is 15 meters. Eye relief 12 mm, diopter adjustment +5D.

For comfortable use, the pipe is equipped with direction marks. A special tripod can be installed on any surface, and thanks to the elbow pad, it can be observed from the hands. The set also includes a shoulder strap.

Average price: 4650 rubles.

• magnification is good;
• clarity - all objects are perfectly visible;
• the ability to attach to a tripod through a standard connector;
• not an inverted image, in comparison with telescopes;
• equipment;
• inexpensive;
• light;
• effective surveillance in low light conditions;
• sight presence.

• Eyes get tired when looking at an object for a long time.

Celestron Land Scout 60

The spotting scope with the possibility of mounting on a tripod (included, desktop metal) with a length of 27.3 cm and a net weight of 510 g is equipped with a 60 mm lens with a 45-degree optical axis break, which gives a magnification of 12-36x.

Despite the fact that the product belongs to entry-level equipment, it has a good real field of view (1.6-3 degrees). At a distance of 1 km, the field of view: 28-52 m. The minimum focusing distance is 10 meters. Removal of the exit pupil - 18 mm. A refractor acts as an optical system.

Scope of use: outdoor activities (any), for viewing targets at open shooting ranges close, at a distance of 25-100 meters, for walking and long hikes.

In addition: there is a soft case for storage and transportation/carrying.

Average price: 8400 rubles.

• good review;
• build quality;
• comfortable;
• light weight;
• high-quality, contrast image;
• large focus wheel;
• 100% coated optics;
• 5 year warranty.

• price.

KOMZ MP2 8x30

Monocular KOMZ MP2 8x30 magnifies 8 times. Optics with multi-coated lenses. There is a ruby ​​coating on the lenses and a rangefinder reticle. The dimensions of the device are 70x117x50 mm, the weight is small, only 270 grams. It lies comfortably in the hand. A branded leather case is included in the package, an anti-fog filter is included. Focusing at the eyepiece has a power reserve, so you can adjust to your vision. This device is not intended for astronomical observations, but it is suitable for forest walks, it will be optimal in a theater or at a concert.

Average price: 2600 rubles.

• Reliable and convenient;
• The picture is sharp and bright;
• The case is durable;
• Excellent combination of price and quality.

• The case, if located near the eye, may glare a little;
• No protection against water;
• The rotation of the eyepiece is easy.

Video comparison of MP and MP2 models:

Nikon prostaff 3 16-48×60

The Nikon prostaff 3 16-48×60 spotting scope has a large magnification, which allows it to be used by amateur astronomers in other cases where powerful zoom is required. The device can be used not only on a tripod (included in the package), but also handheld. Weight 620 grams. The case of the device is rubberized and protected from moisture and dust. Multicoated lenses. The case is included. The quality of the optics is at the highest level, chromatic aberrations are reduced to a minimum. The minimum distance for full focusing should be 10 meters.

Approximate price: 24,000 rubles.

• Great quality;
• Excellent equipment;
• There is protection against fogging and any moisture;
• Suitable for the starry sky.

• The price is not affordable for everyone.

Yukon 6-100×100

The Yukon 6-100×100 Spotting Scope resembles a telescope, because the device allows you to reach 100x from low magnification. For those who like to watch the night sky, such a device will be a wonderful gift. The tube is equipped with a swivel eyepiece and can be paired with an adapter for the camera. That is, a picturesque picture seen in the sky can be easily captured in a photograph.

Yukon is a Chinese manufacturer and its products can be bought not only through our stores, but also ordered through the famous Aliexpress. Unfortunately, there is a small drawback in the form of a lack of adaptation to the Russian harsh climate.In severe frost, the pipe is unlikely to be able to fully function, so it must be used in more gentle conditions. The device weighs one and a half kilograms.

Average price: 14,000 rubles.

Professional video review of the pipe:

• One hundred times magnification;
• Suitable for the starry sky, as it takes better at a distance;
• A protective cover is present;
• The price for this pipe is excellent.

• Low frost resistance;
• There may be optical aberrations;
• The plastic eyepiece is flimsy.

Conclusion

As you understood from the rating of high-quality binoculars and mirror tubes, the optics can be fixed, with a clearly defined distance, or maybe with a zoom, that is, the ability to choose the degree of magnification. As a rule, zoom optics are more expensive in price, although there are exceptions. With a large zoom, the optical stabilizer function is useful, and this is also extra money. If you need binoculars for hiking in the forest, then you should give preference to miniature, compact models with minimal weight. In this case, the risk of damaging the binoculars if they fall is less than if you accidentally drop heavy optical equipment.

Choosing the right and high quality binoculars will provide you with a lot of new and colorful experiences. You just need to decide what you need binoculars, a spotting scope or a monocular. With a successful purchase, the device will last for many years and will bring considerable benefits.