Buying Binoculars: A Beginner's Guide (2022)

Binoculars offer amazingly close views of nature. Whether you are looking for binoculars for gazing at stars, bird-watching, or concert-going, different types of binoculars are available in the market. However, with several binoculars for sale, it can be hard to select one. You need to go through all aspects carefully and check the ease of use of each pair of binoculars.

Go through the binocular buying guide below and learn how to choose the right binoculars. Though it does not include any information about brands, you can see what specifications to check before purchasing a binocular.

Tips to Purchase Binoculars

There are different binoculars available on e-commerce sites and local stores. But go through the binocular buying tips below to choose an appropriate one:

• It would be best to try different models before buying a binocular for beginners. In addition, select a seller that offers a good return policy with a binocular for sale.
• Ensure that you will see a sharp and bright image with a pair of binoculars.
• Confirm the colour you see through binoculars looks natural.
• There should be minimal colour-fringing. If you wear spectacles, keep them on while testing the different models of binoculars.
• Ensure that you like the instrument in your hands as you have to carry it for hours.
• Check for guarantee-life.

Various Factors to Consider Before Buying the Binoculars

The following are different factors you must consider before purchasing the pair of binoculars:

Magnification

When you look for a binocular for sale, the first thing you must know is its magnification specification. Also, check the binocular magnification chart to get clarity about magnification levels. You can see a magnification factor indicated by a number written with ‘x’ on a binocular. It reveals how close all the objects will appear.

For example, suppose a binocular has a magnification factor of 10x; it will allow you to see all things ten times near you. Generally, a good pair of binoculars have a magnification factor of 7x to 12x. Using a binocular with a higher magnification with a tripod would be best.

You can use a binocular with higher magnification for long range-hunting. But use a pair of binoculars with a low magnification factor to view a football game from far seats.

Objective Lens Diameter

You can locate the objective lens opposite to the eyepiece. Its size is crucial as it determines the amount of light entering the binoculars. Moreover, you can get better images in low light conditions with an objective lens of a bigger diameter. For instance, suppose you have 8x25 and 8x40 lenses. The later one will create a better and brighter image due to its bigger diameter.

Lens Quality or Coating

The lens coating plays a vital role in reducing the amount of reflected light and allowing maximum light to enter. Meanwhile, the lens quality ensures an aberration-free and high-contrast image. Quality lenses work best in low lighting conditions because they transmit more light. Moreover, they ensure that the colours of the image are not distorted or washed out.

Exit Pupil/ Field of View

A larger exit pupil size means brighter images. It indicates a better view in low light conditions. Also, it will be much easier to maintain the original image even if your hands shake. You can calculate exit pupil size by dividing the objective lens's diameter by the magnification number.

For instance, in 8x42 binoculars, 42 divided by 8 equals 5.25mm, which is an exit pupil diameter. It indicates the shaft size of light that reaches the eyes, whose pupils vary from 2mm in bright light to 7mm in darkness.

Weight and Eye Strain

It would be best to consider the weight of a binocular before purchasing it. Also, check if you feel tired by using those binoculars for a prolonged time. Similarly, determine if it is taxing on the eye using a binocular. Though it is hard to use a pair of regular binoculars for a long time, the high-end ones do not cause any eye strain. You can also use them for long hours at a stretch if required.

Waterproofing

Binoculars are essential for outdoor activities, so it is important to have some degree of waterproofing. Though a regular pair of binoculars can stay underwater for a limited time, the high-end models can remain safe and undamaged in water even after a couple of hours.

Budget

The top-quality binoculars are more expensive than others because they are more durable and yield better and brighter images. But no need to get worried. There are also cheaper binoculars available in the market. You just have to get a suitable pair within your budget.

Closing Thoughts
To purchase a binocular suitable for your purpose, look at the properties mentioned above. Then, select the binoculars specification according to your purpose of use. You will indeed end up buying the right pair of binoculars.