When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. You might think it'd be a matter of picking the binoculars with the largest magnification, but in practicality, it limits your field of view, which can make things harder to spot. Sebastian Oakley defaultImage: '', binoculars compact minolta racine americanlisted wisconsin As well as being waterproof, the construction is hinged to allow for the binos to be folded even tighter when not in use making them the perfect size to slip into a jacket pocket; no additional bags or backpacks required. Factor in a rubber-armored body, and Kowa suggests this pair of compact binos should last their user a lifetime. layers: '57011' For example, physically larger objective lenses and greater magnifications usually mean more sizable binoculars too, which is why we find most ultra compact binoculars sticking to magnifications of, say 8x or 10x, and objective lens sizes of a relatively modest 21mm or 25mm. defaultImage: '', We would expect it to give a worthwhile idea of the moon, but not much else in the night sky. zeiss binoculars He is a Fellow of The Royal Society of Arts, holds a Foundation Degree in Equitation Science and is a Master of Arts in Publishing. Surprisingly at this budget price we still get both a waterproof and fog proof construction, including the preferred BaK-4 glass prisms, plus the regulation-issue multi coated optics to improve light transmission. defaultImage: '', days of receipt and we'll cover the cost of return shipping. Once again operation is swift and simple via a turn of the large and obvious ridged focus wheel, while the eyecups purport to offer three positions for comfortable viewing. 12x25 factory The best telescopes for astrophotography (opens in new tab), Thank you for reading 5 articles this month* Join now for unlimited access, Enjoy your first month for just 1 / $1 / 1, *Read 5 free articles per month without a subscription. Includes caps and a case. layers: '56697' }, { Waterproof, nitorgen purged, rugged rubber armored construction protects against the elements. }, { sourceURL:'/catalog/includes/quicklook_miniproduct.jsp?entityId=113209&entityTypeId=4', From our entry level beginner telescopes for amateur astronomers to our Dobsonian telescopes to our most advanced Cassegrain telescopes and accessories, you can find the best telescope for you. Bigger lenses mean more light-gathering power and thus better views for you. binoculars 9x Shop now and get Free Value Shipping on most orders over $49 to the If for any Orion's Telescope Buyer's Guide is a great place to start. Suitable for Outdoor Sports and Concert,Bird Watching. binoculars 2pc binocular So in this example, we've got binoculars with 10x magnification and 6x magnification. binoculars The ability to focus as close as two metres, or 6.6ft, offers further versatility for those of us looking for compact binoculars for most eventualities. width: 160, width: 160, Still, we include them here because they will deliver the 'wow' moment when turned on that old favorite of binocular astronomy, the moon. His popular science book The Physics Behind explains not just how the universe works, but why. }, { defaultImage: '', }, { width: 160, Compact binoculars are usually roof prism types, as this arrangement provides straight tubes and lends itself to foldability. With a pair of monoculars, two users will benefit from the additional light-gathering power over the human eye, making it easier to spot more stars and celestial objects. Best binoculars for horse racing and other sports:Sports tend to happen in the day, so a bright objective lens is less of a concern. }, { Orion avoids marketing gimmicks like ruby coatings that only turn images green, and ultra-high magnifications, which for small lenses produce only dim, blurry images. sourceURL:'/catalog/includes/quicklook_miniproduct.jsp?entityId=133131&entityTypeId=4', They are pocketable at 7.5 x 5.5 x 11cm. Get breaking space news and the latest updates on rocket launches, skywatching events and more! Policy. sourceURL:'/catalog/includes/quicklook_miniproduct.jsp?entityId=113712&entityTypeId=4', While compact binoculars aren't as powerful as larger ones, they are great for portability and are generally less expensive. binoculars magnification 25x sourceSelector:'' }, { }, { sourceSelector:'' These are: magnification and lens size. binoculars 18mm eyepiece Most binoculars will list both in their name. height: 160, A slim and stylish single-hinged design also catches the eye, while a soft case, strap and eyepiece caps come as standard here. binoculars brunton epoch 8x21 compact telescopes The large focus wheel makes handling surprisingly good and the 6-degree field of view is adequate, although not as good as some of the UD's serious rivals. defaultImage: '', binoculars sourceSelector:'' There's a tripod mount (which requires an adaptor), and finally, we love that they're available in a choice of five colors, including hot pink and a zingy lime green. Large volume orders are subject to special order policies contact our Customer Service Department for additional details. width: 160, sourceURL:'/catalog/includes/quicklook_miniproduct.jsp?entityId=134844&entityTypeId=4', Multi-coated optics and BAK 4 prisms give bright, crisp views, and the non-slip rubber armor absorbs shock while providing a firm grip. The best will be fully multi-coated with phase coating on the prisms. You'll get a better view with Orion compact binoculars! They are available in several colors (which may differ depending on which country you are buying in). }, { Please refresh the page and try again. Let's look at some of the best available today. width: 160, Youll probably also notice the term roof prism mentioned as part of the specification of the smaller binoculars were showcasing here. The main things to consider when shopping for compact binoculars are the magnification usually 8x or 10x and the diameter of the objective (front) lenses. Visit the Orion Community Center for in-depth information on telescopes, binoculars, and astrophotography. If you're specifically looking for a pair of the best compact binoculars, then read on. sourceSelector:'' Space is part of Future US Inc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. SkyGenius 8x21 Small Compact Lightweight Binoculars for Concert Theater Opera .Mini Pocket Folding Binoculars w/Fully Coated Lens for Travel Hiking Bird Watching Adults Kids(0.38lb). defaultImage: '', Now an employee-owned company, we pride ourselves on an unswerving commitment to best quality products, value and unmatched customer care. Discover more about the small businesses partnering with Amazon and Amazons commitment to empowering them. When shopping online, you may come across lots of lesser-known brands offering what seem to be unmissable bargains but, as ever, buyer beware. We've got a handy guide to the top compact models right here. Best binoculars for nature:A high magnification combined with a smaller and lighter objective lens will make for a good combination here. width: 160, These small binoculars are small enough for pocket or purse, and are also used frequently as a back up to larger binoculars. Since 1975 Orion Telescopes & Binoculars has been offering telescopes for sale direct to customers. An inexpensive and portable offering for travelers and hikers alike, this compact pair of binos would also be suitable for concert and theatre-goers, as well as sports fans, or indeed anyone wanting an unobtrusive pair for daily use. After viewing product detail pages, look here to find an easy way to navigate back to pages you are interested in. 1 product ratings - Vortex Vanquish 8x26 Binoculars. width: 160, Despite this they dont stint on features found in physically larger alternatives. width: 160, Shop products from small business brands sold in Amazons store. 10x25 celestron outland fog sourceSelector:'' While tripod-mounted telescopes and other larger binoculars may be more suitable for serious astronomy, the best compact binoculars offer better portability and will still give you great night sky views, even though they may come with some small compromises. That being said, for daytime use a lens size of with a diameter of 21 to 25mm is arguably ideal. layers: '52989' While they be slightly light on features too for their budget friendly price, we do get adjustable turn-and-slide eyecups, and a familiar central focus knob, as well as multi-coated lenses to increase light transmission for a crisper view. With objective lenses of just 21 mm, these binos are of limited use for astronomy duties. The single hinge still allows adjustment between the eyes from 56 to 72 mm, meaning adults and children alike should be able to use them comfortably. The open bridge design is unusual for a compact pair and includes a tripod mount (adapter required, as with all but the largest binoculars). width: 160, They are very lightweight at only 178 grams, due to their ABS plastic body but they still boast fully multi-coated lenses and quality BAK-4 roof Porro prisms. Fully multi-coated, phase corrected prisms, What to look out for when buying compact binoculars, The Southern Delta Aquariid meteor shower of 2022 is peaking now, Pictures from space! The Trinovid BCA models are the most versatile of all compact binoculars. sourceURL:'/catalog/includes/quicklook_miniproduct.jsp?entityId=132492&entityTypeId=4', Sitting in the middle of Kowas range of pocket-sized compact binoculars, this looks like a good investment for anyone seeking a small pair of binos with a wide range of possible uses. Pricing and/or promotions are subject to change without notice. binocular 8x21 Watch out for the 10x21 version of the Pentax UD, as this is not fully multi-coated, has less eye relief, and has an even smaller exit pupil at 2.1 mm compared to 2.3mm here. sourceSelector:'' At 25mm, their objective lenses are large for compact binoculars, which, when coupled with a modest 8x magnification, results in high relative brightness, meaning you'll see more twinkling stars. Despite this, they still boast high-quality, fully multi-coated optics. }, { Policy. Contributions from A neck strap, case, lens cloth and manual are all included out of the box as standard. Best budget binoculars under $100 (opens in new tab) Keep a pair of pocket binoculars in your vehicles, give them as gifts, keep them handy! }, { }, { Rubber coated, non-slip and water resistant, these Pentax binocular use an unusual reverse porro prism construction. 7s 10x42 binoculars Built for the wet as well as the wild and straightforward to use with it, this Bushnell pair of compact binos has an extra trick up its sleeve in claiming to be 100% waterproof, thanks to O-ring seals to prevent moisture ingress plus nitrogen purged housing to prevent fogging. Our 100% satisfaction guarantee says it all. When you're browsing for binoculars, you'll quickly notice that their names tend to include something like "10x20" or "6x30". sourceSelector:'' This convenient pair has a 10x magnification lens that provides clear focus at 1000 yards out. They have a wide field of view for an 8x compact, at 6.8-degrees, and the K9 glass roof prisms with a phase correction coating. Get the best camera deals, reviews, product advice, competitions, unmissable photography news and more! The eyepiece lenses, curiously, have a blue coating. Carried in a pocket or small bag, a pair of the best compact binoculars can be a must-have in any traveling stargazer's kit list. bushnell binoculars 12x25 1225 }, { Please send me email about sales, new products, and astronomy. View cart for details. }, { sourceSelector:'' Faint objects will appear brighter in these than in comparable 8x21 or 10x25 binoculars. The second number refers to lens size. sourceSelector:'' Aurosports 10x25 Binoculars for Adults and Kids, Folding Compact Binocular with Weak Light Night Vision, Lightweight Small Binoculars for Bird Watching, Travel, Concerts, Hunting, Hiking. New York, layers: '57012' Still, they are an appealing design with impressive optics so they are worthy of consideration. Because compact binoculars are small and light, it's easier to hold them still and so you don't need to worry about higher magnification causing unusable wobble. defaultImage: '', The MONARCH M5 series are lightweight and comfortable enough to carry anywhere. We even offer an in-depth look at the best binoculars for kids so your budding astronomer can enjoy the night sky with binoculars that aren't going to be too hard to lift and hold still. Return }, { bushnell binoculars pentax height: 160, For the sizeable price we get a shockproof and waterproofed nitrogen-filled magnesium alloy body with a textured non-slip finish, an unusually close focus distance of 1.5 metres, plus, indicating that this one goes the extra mile, high resolution ED glass containing whats claimed is a large volume of fluorite crystal. All this does mean a higher price point than others on this list, although true quality is never cheap. and special offers. Remember though, lower power binoculars will give a brighter image, making faint objects such as nebulae more visible. sourceURL:'/catalog/includes/quicklook_miniproduct.jsp?entityId=134516&entityTypeId=4', bushnell binoculars Twist up eye cups allow for adjustable eye relief, Very affordable compact binoculars for everyday use, Multi coated lenses to increase light transmission, High-end, blow the budget, ultra compact waterproofed option not for the faint hearted, High quality ED glass to deliver class-leading clarity, Far from the most powerful option for the price if compact size isnt essential, O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged waterproof and fogproof compact roof prism binoculars, Multi coated lenses increase light transmission, Rubber shock absorbent armor also makes for a firm grip, Mid-range, mid-priced Kowa compact binocular option for serious observers who want to travel light, Multi coated lenses to improve light transmission and repel dirt, Rubber armored body provides a firm grip, even in the wet, Lacks high resolution ED glass, as found in higher priced alternatives, Expensive if only buying for occasional use, Inspired by their full-sized counterparts these offer precise spotting in a portable form-factor, Compact pocket binoculars for detailed viewing close up or far-away, BaK-4 prism glass and multi coated lenses for improve light transmission, No tripod mount facility or built-in image stabilization, Compact, waterproof and foldable pair of compact binos, We check over 250 million products every day for the best prices, Naomi Osaka helps a butterfly at the Open: Sports Photography of the Year Award 2022. width: 160, Thus compact binoculars always use the roof prism design. sourceURL:'/catalog/includes/quicklook_miniproduct.jsp?entityId=132268&entityTypeId=4', These H2O binoculars have impressive specifications for a very reasonable price, including multi-coating and BAK-4 roof prisms. They are on the heavier side at 289g, which is relative to the robust build quality. Some compacts are waterproof or water-resistant, which is always a good idea to prevent accidents. He is member of Nikon NPS and has been a Nikon user since the film days using a Nikon F5 and saw the digital transition with Nikon's D series cameras and is still to this day the youngest member to be elected in to BEWA, The British Equestrian Writers' Association. Visit our corporate site (opens in new tab). Another ultra light, rubberized pocket-sized binocular, this time from the recognized Olympus brand. Olympus has long been a leading manufacturer of optics, and these binoculars are available in either a stylish purple or green, however, they provide far more than just good looks. Durable and foldable, these binoculars offer high-quality imagery at a good price. These compacts, are truly compact in every sense of the word, weighting in a just under 8 ounces you can put them in for pocket all day and they wont weigh you down! layers: '52696' binocular 8x21 Multi-coated optics and BAK-4 prisms provide bright, detailed, high-resolution images. Even the neoprene carry case provided here claims to be moisture proof. Naturally we get fully multi coated optics with Bak-4 prisms to improve light transmission, plus a degree of waterproofing; and all at an affordable price for those of us seeking a compact pair for everyday use. Check out our colorful catalog, filled with hundreds of quality products. He built his own 100mm refractor telescope from some bits found in a military surplus store, and once had lunch with Neil Armstrong. }, { Binoculars have lots of different specs, but there are two key ones that are best to focus on if you want to keep things simple. The Opticron Aspheric 3 are not the most compact of compact binoculars at 10.9 x 10.6 x 3.3 cm, and they are slightly weighty at just under 300gm. height: 160, The best binoculars (opens in new tab) With nearly 15 mm of eye relief and a wide field of view of 6.5-degrees, they can be used comfortably by spectacle wearers. NY 10036. Best rangefinder binoculars (opens in new tab) By }, { Pentax's slightly gimmicky binos can disassemble to provide two 4x monoculars and then screw together to create a 16x telescope. width: 160, Thanks for subscribing to our newsletter! width: 160, Proving that a compact binocular doesnt always mean a budget price, this sturdy green and black liveried foldable pair from Kowa weds a useful 8x magnification to a quality 22mm objective lens, with a 10x magnification model also available if your budget stretches further still. These low-powered instruments will offer you much better views than you'd ever achieve with the naked eye and come in at relatively low prices. Many options on the market offer the same great image as their larger and heavier counterparts and even include features like low light vision, only in a more manageable size. The Aculon T02 looks like something out of a sci-fi movie. defaultImage: '', Best marine binoculars (opens in new tab) height: 160, defaultImage: '', For this best compact binoculars list, select the X-Lite 8x26 pair. Products are not always described accurately, particularly when sold by traders on third-party websites, and we advise treating claims with suspicion. layers: '59973' Less than 200g, these binoculars are undoubtedly portable and pocketable, although being a single-hinge design, they don't fold up especially small. width: 160, The aspheric lenses in these binoculars provide sharper images and less distortion across the field of view, which at 5 degrees is a little below par for 10x magnification. width: 160, Join our Space Forums to keep talking space on the latest missions, night sky and more! Orion Announces Acquisition of Meade Instruments, Orion Protecting U.S. Consumers (Updated July 2022), telescope and astrophotography accessories. Bring the sights closer for a better look at the world around you. The objectives have a slightly green hue typical of lower-quality coatings. defaultImage: '', Visit our corporate site (opens in new tab). When it's time to upgrade to something with a bit more power, be sure to check out our best telescopes and best binoculars guides. sourceURL:'/catalog/includes/quicklook_miniproduct.jsp?entityId=132491&entityTypeId=4', The 15-millimeter eyepieces are built for comfort. Heres why you can trust us. The compact size also makes this option suited to watching sports, going hiking, traveling and other common pursuits. Digital Camera World is part of Future US Inc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. layers: '55702' binoculars brunton epoch 8x21 compact telescopes These are the lightest binoculars in the Pentax range, helped no doubt by using plastic instead of a metal chassis. adpost binoculars 10x25 These binoculars are great value for money. Sometimes the comfort of a trusted brand that offers a warranty is worth paying that little bit extra for. The best will also be nitrogen filled to eliminate the risk of internal fogging.