Binocular strengths how to#

Don’t forget to check the weight of the carrying case, too, as this will affect the overall weight. Compact binoculars can also have the added benefit of fitting into a coat or jacket pocket. If you need to carry them over long distances, a lighter, compact pair might be preferable. If you plan to use your binoculars while out and about, it’s important to consider their size and weight. Do the binoculars need to be lightweight and compact? These factors may be particularly important if you plan to use them for birdwatching at dawn or dusk, and should be considered in combination.

This helps improve the brightness and clarity of the image.Ĭompared with standard-sized binoculars, compact pairs have a smaller objective lens diameter and exit-pupil measurement, so tend to work best in brighter daylight conditions. The lens coatings used can help reduce the amount of reflected light and increase the amount that reaches the eye.

The light-transmission measurement will tell you what percentage of light reaches the eye after entering the binoculars.

The exit pupil tells you how much light is sent to your eye through the binoculars and is calculated by dividing the size of the objective lens by the magnification.

A larger objective lens diameter lets in more light, making the image appear brighter (all other factors being equal).

The objective lens diameter is the measurement of the lenses at the end of the binoculars.

If you plan to use your binoculars at sunrise or sunset, then the objective lens diameter, exit pupil and light transmission are all important. At what time of the day will you use your binoculars? In the first case, magnification is more important than the field of view, and vice versa for the latter.

Do you want to look at one thing, such as a bird in flight, or watch several things simultaneously, such as horses at a race track? You can make your binocular search easier by considering what you’ll be using them for. Questions to consider before buying a pair of binoculars

Binocular strengths how to#

We’ll tell you the key features to look out for, where to buy and how to use them effectively, whether in glorious sunshine or on a dimly lit evening. In our expert guide, we explain how to shop for the most suitable pair. Buying the first pair you see online could leave you with flimsy binoculars that are let down by imperfect lenses, greatly limiting your view of what’s in front of you. Read our expert guide if you want to find the perfect binoculars for you.Ĭhoosing binoculars is far easier once you understand the main features and how they impact on performance. Pick the right pair of binoculars and they should last you a long time, whether you’re using them for wildlife viewing or for a closer look at starry skies.