Which binoculars and spotting scopes are the best in 2020?

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

Binoculars will be the perfect gift for both yourself and your loved one. This thing will definitely not be superfluous. After all, you can take a telescope with you on a hike or a theater, or you can watch birds or animals. Or just sit by the window and entertain yourself by exploring street events.

Binoculars or monocular

Before purchasing an optical device, the question arises: "What is better than a monocular or binoculars?" The monocular is a miniature telescope with a small magnification. They use this device in the same way as a telescope, which means that observation is carried out 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 direct it only over a short distance, for example, at a concert or in a theater. The best multiplicity of the device is 5 or 6.

When observing with binoculars, both eyes are involved, thus the visual acuity is maximized. By weight, it is heavier than a monocular and will take up more space, so it will not fit in your pocket. But the magnification of binoculars is at a height and magnification can be obtained, for example, from 8 to 20.

Criterias of choice

In order for the purchase not to 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 consultants, who often want to sell a product and give recommendations without even asking, but 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, sea, 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 essential criteria.

1. Multiplicity. This word means enlarging the image by a certain number. X stands for multiplicity, and the number next to the letter indicates the amount of magnification. As a rule, the higher the number, the heavier the optical device. If you are a hunter, then a multiplicity from 7 to 10 will be ideal for you, because you do not have to carry a heavy device, and this magnification is quite enough to view the lurking prey. For tourist purposes, a multiplicity of 10 to 15 is perfect.
2. Output lens diameter. Here, too, everything is simple. The larger the diameter indicator, the better the picture that appears to the gaze will be, and all because the aperture and brightness increase.The best diameters 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 name of the ratio of the output lens diameter and magnification. This indicator affects the suitability of the optical device in low light 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 the equipment, crawling through the mountains.

Top manufacturers

There are many different brands on the modern market, both famous and little-known. Highest popularity of Nikon models. This well-known Japanese company has long specialized in the production of optical devices and has already won the respect of customers.

Binoculars and telescopes from German companies are also in demand. Brands such as Eschenbach, Bresser, Minox, Omegon have proven themselves very well. Russian-made optical optics are also of interest to consumers. Among the good brands, Zenit and KOMZ are worth noting.

List of the best binoculars for 2020

LEVENHUK Atom 10 × 50

The field model belongs to the entry level technology, intended for hunters and fishermen. It has a wide viewing angle (6.8 degrees, at a distance of 1 km it 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 (with an extension of the exit pupil 12 mm). Diopter adjustment - + 3D.

Design description: rubberized polycarbonate body (significantly reduces the weight of the device without losing strength) with protection against moisture and dust in size 19.8 / 16.8 / 6.5 cm, equipped with central focusing, multi-layer lens coating and rubber eyecups. It can be mounted on a tripod.

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

Average price: 3920 rubles.

• high-quality assembly;
• normal luminosity at dusk (everything is visible);
• inexpensive;
• realistic picture transmission;
• comfortable grip;
• there is a possibility of mounting on a tripod via an adapter (purchased separately);
• lifetime warranty.

• uncomfortable strap.

Yukon Sideview 10 × 21

The product with dimensions 12.4 / 9.9 / 4.5 cm and a net weight of 190 g with central focusing is equipped with an optical system based on Porro prisms, which in conjunction with an antireflection 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 provides 10x magnification, with a minimum focusing distance of 7 meters. Removal of the exit pupil - 7.5 mm. Permissible refocusing of the eyepiece is + 5D. The working 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);
• lockable lens caps;
• adjustment of the distance between the pupils.

Additional information: Supplied with storage case and strap.

Average price: 4000 rubles.

• easy;
• mobile;
• fast, convenient setup;
• excellent optics;
• powerful;
• design;
• the product is affordable.

• gives a small viewing angle at maximum zoom.

Olympus 8 × 40 DPS I

Binoculars with center focusing and aspherical lenses with continuous anti-reflective coating provide 8x magnification. The body is black with a special corrugated rubber coating and is 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, an apparent angle of 65 degrees, a convenient central dial for fast focusing and triple diopter adjustment (+ 1D).

The device is ideal for monitoring sports and animals.

Technical characteristics: at a distance of 1 km, the field of view is 143 m; 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;
• image does not rattle (clear picture);
• compact;
• eyes do not get tired;
• the rubberized body does not cling to anything;
• there is protection against sun glare;
• easy.

• catches glare;
• separate covers.

BRESSER Hunter 8-24 × 50

The BRESSER Hunter 8-24 × 50 binoculars are considered good. It is suitable for a wide variety of applications: field use, hunting observation, theater magnification, etc. Porro prism type, twilight factor 20, the distance between the pupils can be adjusted. Magnification from 8 to 24. The body of the product is rubberized, eyecups are rubber, lenses with a multilayer coating. The cover is included in the package. The binoculars create a flawlessly clear image across the entire field of view. The focus adjustment wheel rotates without problems.

Average price: 6,000 rubles.

Video demonstration of binoculars:

• clarity of the picture;
• decent quality;
• different magnification can be adjusted;
• ease of use.

• sharpness may be lost at high magnification;
• there are no large insulating rubber bands.

Canon 8 × 25 is

An excellent eight-fold with an optical stabilizer and a multilayer lens coating focuses from a minimum distance of 3.5 m. Porro prism type, adjustment between the pupils is available, focusing is central. 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. Thanks to their lightness, the binoculars will not be a burden when hiking or hunting. The Image Stabilizer avoids the effect of shake and you can enjoy sharp, high-quality pictures in peace. Of the devices with optical stabilization, the Canon 8 × 25 is model is considered the lightest and, by the way, at a price much more profitable than its “brothers”.

Price: about 19,000 rubles.

• lightweight and compact;
• easy to use;
• works 6 hours without interruption from batteries;
• there is a lens that allows you to align 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 tourist purposes. Prism type Porro, adjustment between the pupils of the distance is available, focusing is separate. Aspherical and multi-coated lenses. The body of the construction is shock-resistant and properly rubberized, protection from moisture and dust is a bonus. The optics have a rangefinder scale. There is no distortion or blurring of images.

Price: about 6,000 rubles.

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

• weighs more than a kilogram;
• inconvenient large covers.

Nikon Aculon A211 7 × 35

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

Central focusing, aspherical lenses with multilayer coating. The case of the binoculars is rubberized, the eyecups are retractable and covered with rubber. The weight is small, only 685 grams. The device fits perfectly in the hand, providing a wide field of view. Nikon Aculon A211 7 × 35 will be the perfect choice for hunting or hiking.

Price: about 5500 rubles.

Binoculars video review:

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

• There is slight distortion around 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 for observing birds and animals. It can also be used in everyday life, watching athletes or somewhere at a concert. Magnification 22x. The case is rubberized, there is a tripod mount. The package includes a convenient case, protective lens caps, a special cleaning cloth for the optics.

Price: 1700 rubles.

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

• Image shakes slightly.

List of the best spotting scopes for 2020

Veber 25-75 × 100

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

The structure is fixed to the tripod using a ring adapter (provided with the kit), has a nitrogen / argon filling (allows the device to be operated in fog, rain and snow) and a threaded connection. A 100mm lens gives a 27-75x magnification. "Porro" prism made of high-quality VAK-4 glass with an exit pupil extension of 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 13/51/21 cm, the weight of the device with a tripod is 2 kg 450 g.

A pouch is provided for storage and comfortable wearing.

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

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

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

Average price: 13,900 rubles.

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

• price.

LZOS Tourist-14 (14-50x60)

The telescope is suitable for observing sports events, theater performances, prey (for hunters), the sky (astronomers), nature, and the like.

The body is made of high-quality enamelled metal, which prevents the device from slipping in the 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 best performance when using a tripod. For connecting it to the telescope on the tube, there are 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 adjustment - + 5D. Expansion limit over the entire magnification range 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;
• well assembled;
• clarity of the picture 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 aperture ratio. Light weight, ergonomic body with the ability to mount on a tripod, make the device the best option for outdoor enthusiasts and nature observation. The main field of application: excursions, hiking, sporting events, observing wildlife, used when shooting at a shooting range. Overall dimensions of the pipe (see): 7/37/7; net weight - 450 grams. Storage case included.

The casing is rubberized, shockproof, protected from moisture and dust. The lenses have a multilayer coating, which prevents the optics from fogging in various temperature conditions. The 50mm lens provides 30x magnification. At a distance of 1 km, the field of view is 40 m. The exit pupil diameter is 1.7 mm. The maximum focusing distance is 15 meters. The eye relief is 12 mm, the diopter adjustment is + 5D.

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

Average price: 4650 rubles.

• the increase is good;
• clarity - all objects are perfectly visible;
• the ability to mount to a tripod through a standard connector;
• not upside-down compared to telescopes;
• equipment;
• inexpensive;
• easy;
• effective surveillance in low light conditions;
• the presence of a sight.

• with prolonged observation of the object, eyes get tired.

Celestron LandScout 60

The telescope with the ability to mount on a tripod (included, desktop metal), 27.3 cm long and 510 g net weight, is equipped with a 60 mm objective with a 45-degree bend in the optical axis, which gives a magnification of 12-36x.

Despite the fact that the product belongs to entry-level technology, it has a good real field of view (1.6-3 degrees). At a distance of 1 km, field of view: 28-52 m. Minimum focusing distance - 10 meters. Exclusion of the exit pupil - 18 mm. The refractor plays the role of the optical system.

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

Optional: there is a soft case for storage and transport / carry.

Average price: 8,400 rubles.

• good overview;
• build quality;
• comfortable;
• light weight;
• high-quality, high-contrast image;
• large focus wheel;
• 100% coated optics;
• 5 years 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 is comfortable in the hand. A branded leather case is included in the package bundle, an anti-fog filter is attached. The 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 the theater or at a concert.

Average price: 2600 rubles.

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

• The case, if close to the eye, may glare slightly;
• No water resistance;
• Eyepiece rotation is easy.

Video comparison of MP and MP2 models:

Nikon prostaff 3 16-48 × 60

The Nikon prostaff 3 16-48x60 telescope has a large magnification, which allows it to be used by amateurs of astronomy and in other cases when a powerful approach is required. The device can be used not only on a tripod (included in the package), but also hand-held. Weight 620 grams. The body of the device is rubberized and protected from moisture and dust. Multi-coated lenses. The case is included in the package.The quality of the optics is at the highest level, chromatic aberration is reduced to a minimum. The minimum distance for full focusing should be 10 meters.

Approximate price: 24,000 rubles.

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

• Not everyone can afford the price.

Yukon 6-100 × 100

The Yukon 6-100 × 100 spotting scope resembles a telescope, because the device allows you to reach up to 100 times with a small 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 a camera adapter. 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 flaw in the form of non-adaptation to the harsh Russian climate. In severe frost, the pipe is unlikely to be able to fully function, therefore, 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:

• 100 times magnification;
• Suitable for the starry sky, as it is better at range;
• A protective case is present;
• The price for such a pipe is excellent.

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

Conclusion

As you understand from the rating of high-quality binoculars and mirror tubes, the optics can be fixed, with a clearly set distance, or maybe with a zoom, that is, the ability to choose the degree of magnification. As a rule, zoom optics are more expensive for the price, although there are exceptions. With a large zoom, the optical stabilizer function is useful, and this is also additional 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 it falls is not high than if you accidentally drop heavy optical equipment.

Choosing the right high quality binoculars will provide you with a whole new and colorful experience. You just need to decide what you need binoculars, a telescope or a monocular. With a successful purchase, the device will serve for many years and will bring considerable benefit.