Binocular Guide - Summary

1. Magnification

The first number on a binocular tells us the magnification. This is how many times larger the subject appears. For general purpose use one would normally use an 8 or 10 times magnification. More information on magnification can be found by following this link: Guide to magnification.

2. Field of View

The field of view tells us how much of the subject we will see. Lower magnification and better optical quality will generally offer a larger field of view. More information on field of view can be found by following this link: Guide to field of view.

3. Lenses and Coatings

Good lens coatings helps to reduce reflection and thus increase the clarity of the image. Generally, the more expensive the binocular the better the lenses and coatings. More information on lenses and their coatings can be found by following this link: Guide to lenses.

4. Image Brightness

The factor which most affects image brightness is the size of the front lens. Generally the larger the lens the the brighter the image. The last number on a pair of binoculars indicates the diameter of the front lens in millemeters. More information on image brightness can be found by following this link: Guide to image brightness.

5. Actual Size of the Binocuars

Because a large front lens provides a brighter image, we normally advise you to buy the largest pair of binoculars that you are happy to carry around, bearing in mind that size can be a problem when, for example, hiking or travelling.

Summary

It is perhaps best to look at the following two images: The first is of a good quality image with a wide field of view, the second is of a poor quality image with a poor field of view. (Both are at 8 times magnification of the original image)

Still puzzled? The let our Binocular Finder choose the binoculars that best suit your requirements.