9 Must-Have Features of Binoculars to Look For
What features should I look for in binoculars?
If this is your first time buying a pair of binoculars, you’ll find yourself asking this question.
Here’s a guide to choosing binoculars. These are the important features you should look into:
1 – Magnification
This is the number with ‘x’. Like 10x. This means the binoculars will magnify the object 10x.
The ideal magnifications are between 7x – 12x.
2 – Objective Lens Diameter
It refers to the lens on the other end of the eyepiece. The diameter of the objective lens determines the amount of light entering the binoculars.
A bigger diameter objective lens can give you brighter, better images.
The lens size is measured in mm. And it’s the number after the ‘x’ for magnification. If the ratio isĀ 8×40, 40 is the objective lens diameter.
3 – Field of View
This refers to the area you see through the glasses.
The bigger the field of view, the wider the area you’ll be able to see. Having a narrower field of view can limit your view especially when the object is small or it’s moving.
Also, a narrower view lets in less light so images will look darker.
4 – Exit pupil
The exit pupil is the bright circle at the center of the eyepiece.
Lens diameter divided by magnification gives you the exit pupil.
Experts say an exit pupil of 7mm is ideal for giving maximum light to the dilated eye even in a dark setting.
5 – Eye Relief
Eye relief is an important feature to consider when you’re searching for good binoculars especially if you wear eyeglasses.
For eyeglass wearers, the ideal eye relief is 11mm or more.
Eye relief is the distance between an eyepiece and your eye.
Most binoculars allow you to adjust the eye relief value. If you have incompatible eye relief, you won’t be able to use it comfortably.
6 – Waterproofing
Binoculars are usually used outdoors. So it’s easy to understand why it’s important for them to have some degree of waterproofing.
Check if the binoculars indicate ‘WP’. This means they’re waterproof. The next thing to check is how much water they can endure and for how long.
Some can handle just getting wet, while some can be submerged in water.
7 – Fog-proofing
Binoculars can fog up when you move from a cold to a warm environment.
It can be bothersome. But more than that, fog or moisture can damage the binoculars.
So make sure you’re choosing fog-proof binoculars.
8 – Rubber CoatingĀ
The rubber coating is seen as a simple feature but it can be really helpful.
It can prevent your binoculars from slipping. And it can cushion the binoculars from bumps and bruises.
9 – Weight
How’s the weight? Choose binoculars that are not too heavy for you. They should not tire you even when you need to carry them or hold them for a long time.