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You are here: Home / Archives for Gear / Binoculars

Binoculars for birding

Here is all you need to know about how to choose and use binoculars.

This information can help you increase your bird-watching enjoyment and upgrade your practical skills.

Our buying guides and reviews of binoculars and accessories will help you make informed decisions before purchase.

We offer advice on how to care for your optics. Plus you can learn how to make the most of your binoculars to have the best birding experiences.

Binoculars buying guides

How do you know which binoculars are best for your style of birding? We discuss what criteria to use when deciding what to look for in binoculars.

You can also learn how to get the best from your binoculars - both taking care of them and how to see the most birds.

Our reviews of the best binoculars cover a wide range of styles and sizes, brands and budgets.

Technical information

This section is a technical guide to the terminology and special features of binoculars for bird watching.

Here we provide information on the terms you will hear, how binoculars work and special components that affect performance.

Learn about the optical systems that make a good pair of binoculars, and the terms that describe them.

8x Binoculars

While 8x binoculars are a commonly recommended magnification for general birding, there are plenty of options within that category.

Explore this section to discover why 8x power binoculars are so popular.

10x binoculars

For clarity over a greater distance, take a look at 10x binoculars.

These optics, with their increased magnification, combine high power with portability.

7x binoculars

7x binoculars capture images of good quality with a decent field of view. Compact and lightweight, they add little weight to your gear.

Choose the best here…

12x binoculars

12x binoculars get you up close and personal with your favorite feathered friends from distances you never thought possible.

Read more about the incredible clarity and detail of 12x binoculars for birding.

Featured image - bird perched on a hand

Hold steady: how to stabilize binoculars without shaking

January 14, 2023

Learn how to position your body in a relaxed but stable stance, and how to use objects in your environment to help you hold binoculars steady.

FI eye conditions

Astigmatism, near or far sight – using binoculars with eye conditions

August 22, 2022

In need of details on using binoculars with an eye condition? Here are guidelines on astigmatism, farsightedness and nearsightedness >>>

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Maintenance and cleaning: how to care for binoculars

July 31, 2022

How can you maintain your binoculars and ensure they are always at their best? This is a complete guide on how to care for your binoculars.

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Porro prism vs roof prism binoculars: which is better for birding?

July 31, 2022

We look at the two main classes of binoculars to weigh up their advantages and disadvantages when used for bird watching.

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How to attach binoculars to a tripod – solved!

July 30, 2022

Got the binoculars, got the tripod – not sure how to put the two together? Check this info to make sure you buy the right binocular adapter >

FI use binoculars with or without glasses

Should I use binoculars and spotting scopes with or without glasses?

July 28, 2022

When birding we want the best view. So should you wear or remove glasses when using binoculars or a spotting scope? We weigh it up here >>>

FI eye relief

All about eye relief: choosing binoculars and spotting scopes for glasses wearers

July 28, 2022

Spectacles or sun glasses wearers need long eye relief when using binoculars or spotting scopes. Not sure what it is or why it counts? >>>

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What does exit pupil mean in binoculars?

July 27, 2022

Want to make sure you always see a bright, clear image through your binoculars? Choosing a pair with the right size exit pupil is crucial.

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When do I need to use a tripod with my birding binoculars?

July 27, 2022

Is it worth carrying a tripod along with your birding binoculars? We explain when and why mounting binoculars on a tripod is a good idea >>>

Featured image - man using binoculars in rain

Everything you need to know about using binoculars in the rain

July 13, 2022

Do you want to stop raindrops obscuring your lenses? We look at how to get the best view through your binoculars, even when it’s pouring.

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Adjusting new binoculars: how to set up and focus binoculars for bird watching

July 13, 2022

All about diopters and focus wheels: how to adjust binoculars to fit the width of your face and the tiny variations between each eye.

Featured image - goofy looking owl with binoculars

Binoculars for dummies: the best way to use binoculars properly

July 13, 2022

The best way to hold and use binoculars may not be obvious. We address common queries so you can fully enjoy your bird watching experience.

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