Binoculars Versus Telescopes: 9 Main Differences
Binoculars and telescopes have the same purpose: to let you see far-away objects closely. But aside from this, they already differ in many ways.
Binoculars and telescopes differ in how they work, their structure, and their price. Here are their main differences in detail.
1 – Their History
The first telescope was introduced in 1609 by Italian scientist, Galileo for his astronomical studies. Later, the original telescope went through many modifications and improvements.
The first binoculars were introduced in the late 17th century. But they weren’t a hit because of their poor design.
The binoculars we know today with prism technology were introduced by Ignazio Porro in 1854. This is why we call them: Porro prism binoculars.
2 – Lenses
A telescope uses one lens and one eyepiece. A pair of binoculars use two lenses and two eyepieces, one for each eye.
This means that binoculars can give you a wider field of view than a telescope would. Also, they give clear 3D images.
On the other hand, telescopes use larger lenses and can let in more light. So they can give you sharper images.
3 – Weight
Binoculars are lighter than a telescope. You can easily bring them with you on adventures. You can put them on a strap or harness and wear them on your body.
Telescopes are usually bigger and heavier. You’ll want to rest them in a tripod.
4 – Magnification
Binoculars usually have a magnification between 6x and 12x. This means you can see the objects six or twelve times closer than you would with just your naked eye.
With telescopes, the magnification is at least 20x.
5 – Ease of Use
When the magnification is high, you’ll need to hold it steady to focus. That’s where tripods or a base comes in handy.
Because telescopes have a very high magnification, it’s hard to use them while you’re on the go. You need to be stationary or you’ll need to mount them on a tripod to make the image stable.
When it comes to adventures, a pair of binoculars will do a better job. Binoculars are less bulky and easier to carry around. You can wear them around your neck with a strap. Or around your body with a harness.
6 – Image Quality
Because of their high magnifying power, telescopes tend to give you clearer images. You can expect to see more details.
Also, telescopes have a bigger lens that can let in more light, which means brighter, crisper images.
7 – Price
Binoculars are a lot cheaper than a telescope. Some high-end binoculars are very expensive. But average binoculars cost less than a telescope.
This is also because telescopes need eyepieces and filters so you can fully enjoy them. The cost of these accessories can be as much as the telescope itself.
8 – Picture-taking
If you’re planning to use it for photography, a telescope can do the job better. Some telescopes are made compatible with cameras. And you can easily find an adapter for your camera.
9 – Waterproofing
Most binoculars are weatherproof. Or at the very least, waterproof.
Telescopes in general are not waterproof. And they can’t be used when it’s foggy.