The best binoculars will not only be optically proficient but also suitable for the subject you're observing. Whether you're bird watching, stargazing or nature spotting while hiking, each application requires different specifications and features to get the best results.
With Prime Day coming on July 16/17, keep your eyes peeled over the coming weeks for some tempting Prime Day binocular deals — you might be able to pocket a pair of the best binoculars for a bargain.
Luckily, we've reviewed and tested the very best binoculars for all these areas and have covered a wide range of binocular types — from porro to roof prism — and sizes. Want to observe the dim starlight in the night sky? The binoculars for stargazing have large objective lenses to soak up as many photons as possible. Bird-watching binoculars typically have sharp edge-to-edge performance and give adequate magnification to track flighty subjects. However, more generalist binoculars may need to meet stricter budgets, and the best binoculars for kids need to be suitable for smaller hands in the family.
The quick list
Best overall
Premium build with powerful magnification suitable for just about any observational pursuit — we think they're the best binoculars overall.
Best value
An able travel companion, these portable roof prism binos are excellent for bringing wildlife closer.
Best styling
Mid-range multi-purpose binoculars suitable for observing nature in the great outdoors.
Best for sharpness
Well-constructed flagship binoculars marry a respectable 10x magnification to a large-ish objective lens.
Best compact binos
Compact and ultra-portable binoculars suitable for sightseeing, and that’s just for starters.
Best for stabilization
Powerful binoculars that stand out from the crowd thanks to its built-in image stabilization.
Best binoculars we recommend in 2024
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Best overall
✅ You wear glasses: They have a very generous 21mm eye relief.
✅ You want high magnification: The 15x magnification is great for seeing far-away subjects.
❌ You want something compact: They weigh over 2 lbs and are quite large.
❌ You're on a budget: They're incredibly expensive — but you get what you pay for.
🔎 Bushnell Forge 15x56: These excellent binoculars offer an above average 15x magnification, and a larger than normal 56mm objective lens for increased light gathering. This results in a larger than average pair of binoculars, although they are not prohibitively unwieldy. ★★★★
Bushnell is a reputable brand known for their outdoor pursuits products like trail cameras, scopes and binoculars. Known for their good value and reliable performance, the Forge 15x56 binoculars are no exception.
A huge 15x magnification means you get up close and personal with your subjects so they're ideal for spotting small songbirds or distant aircraft. However, they also boast large 56mm objective lenses. This big opening on the front of the binoculars allows a lot more light through than a generalist binocular and as such performs well in low light conditions, whether that's skywatching at night or tracking animals deep into twilight.
Rain or shine, these binoculars are great for the outdoors as they’re waterproof, which we appreciated in our Bushnell Forge 15x56 review. In addition to this, its large objective lens lets in as much light as possible and sharpness is boosted via prime ED glass (a generous application of lens coatings to improve light transmission).
Inevitably these aren’t the lightest binos to use, at around 1kg, though a neck strap is provided for added comfort. And it has to be noted that flagship, premium build binos such as these do command a premium price, even from the normally cost-conscious Bushnell. You do get a few extras, however, such as Bushnell’s exclusive ‘EXO’ barrier protection — a lens coating that bonds to the glass at a molecular level which prevents scratches while repelling water, oil, debris and dust.
- Read our full Bushnell Forge 15x56 review
| Attributes | Notes |
|---|---|
| Design | Large and heavy. |
| Performance | Good 15x magnification. |
| Functionality | Suitable for most types of long viewing. |
Best value
✅ You don't want anything too heavy: They aren't the lightest option, but they're easy enough to carry around.
✅ You want to use them in all weathers: They're waterproof, and the lens coatings are oil-repellent.
❌ You want image stabilization: These binoculars don't have it.
❌ You want more magnification: The 8x is fine for wildlife watching, but for other uses you may want to consider 10x or 12x.
🔎 Olympus 8x42 Pro: They're well-built and protected against the elements, and offer great optics for viewing birds and other wildlife. They're a little pricey, but you get what you pay for. ★★★★
Wildlife watchers who love being out in nature may want to consider the Olympus 8x42 PRO binoculars from a brand that is well-known for their optics and camera production.
Olympus is all about packing a punch, feature-wise, in an affordable product and is much more affordable than the much more expensive Leica or Zeiss. This pair provides a good balance when it comes to size and weight, especially as they offer peace of mind courtesy of a whopping 15-year warranty. We were impressed when we tested them out during our Olympus 8x42 Pro review.
Defined as a ‘Pro’ option, they feature the same nano-coated high-performance ‘Zuiko’ optics, complete with ED lenses, as the Olympus camera range. This results in unprecedented light transmission for their class. With a slender and simple nitrogen-filled construction, we get the ability to focus on subjects as close as 1.5 m, as well as 1,000 m away. Plus, a dioptric adjustment ring and extendable eye relief provide comfort for those who wear glasses.
Those wanting something even more powerful and willing to spend a little bit more are directed to the alternative 10x42 model, also from Olympus. However, you may need to mount these on a tripod with a compatible binocular tripod adapter, especially when observing for long periods, simply due to their high 15x magnification.
- Read our full Olympus 8x42 Pro review
| Attributes | Notes |
|---|---|
| Design | Well built and reassuringly weighty. |
| Performance | Clear and sharp images all across the frame. |
| Functionality | Waterproof and fogproof. |
Best styling
✅ You enjoy stargazing: They are good for stargazing and wildlife watching alike.
✅ You want to mount them to a tripod: They have a mount to attach them to a tripod for longer sessions.
❌ You want something lightweight: They can become heavy after long periods of handheld use.
❌ You want the sharpest views possible: They're fine for the price, but anyone wanting sharper views will want to spend more.
🔎 Celestron Nature DX 12x56: Their focal length and light weight are perfect qualities for stargazing handheld or for casual birding and wildlife use. ★★★★½
As the binocular lenses get bigger, they perform better in low light and the Nature DX's 56 mm objective lenses on this variant of the line make it a great option for those who want to continue observing nature into the twilight hours, as we mentioned in our Celestron Nature DX 12x56 review. They’re also suitable for any wet and wild adventures due to the binoculars’ housing being nitrogen-purged to avoid fogging in damp conditions, as well as being waterproof.
Long, twist-up eyecups provide comfort, which will be a relief to anyone wearing eyeglasses, negating the need to take them off during use but ideally, we'd like to see slightly more than the 16mm provided.
To further aid visibility the lenses are multi-coated to protect against ghosting and flares. The Celestron Nature DX 12x56 has a durable polycarbonate construction and a closest focusing distance of 3 m.
However, a large lens does result in a heavy device, with these weighing in at just over a kilo, and this means that extended use may result in weary limbs. Yes, it can be attached to a tripod, but you’ll need to buy an additional adapter to be able to do that. Nevertheless, this is a great value option for those seeking a brighter pair of optics, despite the weight.
- Read our full Celestron Nature DX 12x56 review
| Attributes | Notes |
|---|---|
| Design | Comfortable to use with good grips. |
| Performance | Not the sharpest image. |
| Functionality | Close focusing down to 9.8 ft (2.9m). |
Best for sharpness
✅ You want something portable: They have a narrow, slender design and only weigh 1.5 lbs / 680g.
✅ You want outstanding optics: They have excellent light transmission, edge-to-edge sharpness and practically no chromatic aberration.
❌ You're on a budget: If you want top-of-the-line optics, you'll need deep pockets.
❌ You want image stabilization: These binos don't have image stabilization.
🔎 Nikon Monarch HG 10x42: Able to perform in all weathers they're waterproof and fogproof so whether you're caught outside in a shower or moving between inside and outside these premium binos from Nikon will be able to keep up with you. ★★★★½
There's a reason these binoculars sit at the very top of Nikon's binocular line. A jewel in the crown, the Monarch HG 10x42s are far and away some of the best we've ever tested, as we mentioned in our Nikon Monarch HG 10x42 review. They're built exquisitely, feel great in the hand and have off-the-charts optics that are pin-sharp edge-to-edge.
A roof prism design ensures it’s compact enough to slip into a jacket pocket, or alternatively, there’s a cushioned neck strap for when you're hiking or traveling around.
They'll work anytime anywhere because they're waterproof and nitrogen-purged to prevent fogging inside. That means rain doesn’t stop play when wildlife watching, even if you jump straight out of a warm house or car into a cold winter snap outside.
Their soft all-over rubberized armor meant we could always keep a firm hold, keeping these premium binoculars secure during use.
Light transmission is good too, ensuring we can keep using these even when light levels drop. Simple and elegant with a high level of finish and great performance, this Nikon example is one of the best binoculars on the market.
- Read our full Nikon Monarch HG 10x42 review
| Attributes | Notes |
|---|---|
| Design | Narrow and slender design. |
| Performance | Image circle is sharp right to the edge. |
| Functionality | Fully optical, no image stabilization. |
Best compact binos
✅ You're on a budget: These binos are very affordable.
✅ You want small and lightweight: They're very compact and only weigh 10.5 oz / 297g — ideal for travel.
❌ You wear glasses: The 11mm eye relief isn't enough for users who wear glasses.
❌ You want to use them after dark: For stargazing or wildlife watching at night, there are better options.
🔎 Steiner 10x26 Safari Ultrasharp: These ultra-portable binos are affordable and can turn their hand to a broad range of uses. They deliver great results for the price, but more experienced users will likely want to invest in a better pair. ★★★★
Steiner is another well-respected binocular brand. This ultra-compact offering is perfect for anyone wanting to watch sports or who just requires a small yet powerful option when traveling. In short, the ‘Safari’ in Steiner 10x26 Safari Ultrasharp doesn’t even begin to convey the broad range of uses these binos offer.
The 26 mm objective lens appears modest on paper compared to the alternatives in our buyer’s guide, but these polycarbonate binos make an ideal companion for those seeking an all-in-one device: They’re waterproof, fog-proof and their rubber eyecups are comfortable whether used with or without glasses — although the 11mm eye relief will be disappointing if you do wear glasses. Plus, their rubberized finish, with a ridged and roughened body, feels great to grip.
The UV glass-coated Steiner 10x26 Safari Ultrasharp binoculars maintain sharpness across the field of view and commendably into the corners. Even when conditions aren’t the best, these deliver accurate colors and reasonable brightness.
Due to the lightweight build, it’s tricky to hold the binos completely steady, particularly when viewing objects at greater distances. That said, for operability and an almost pocket-money price, these German-brand binoculars are hard to beat.
| Attributes | Notes |
|---|---|
| Design | Compact and lightweight build. |
| Performance | Sharp images across the whole frame. |
| Functionality | Waterproof and fogproof. |
Best for color reproduction
✅ You wear glasses: The 17mm eye relief is great for users who wear glasses.
✅ You want durability: They're water resistant, fog resistant and will last you for years.
❌ You're on a budget: They are quite expensive, and they're only Leica's 'entry-level' option.
❌ You want high magnification: 8x magnification isn't the highest on this list.
🔎 Leica Trinovid 8x42 HD: These binoculars tick a lot of boxes, from optics and power to size and weight. They aren't cheap, and you may get similar specs from other brands, but they'll last a lifetime.
While they may be pricey when compared with ‘budget’ binoculars, this series is actually Leica’s entry-level option. However, if you’re looking for a well-crafted pair of binoculars that’ll last a lifetime, we believe that the Leica Trinovid 8x42 HD is worth investing in.
German brand Leica’s ‘Trinovid’ comes with an ergonomic construction, true internal focusing, and superior optical performance. These binos are roughly the width of a CD case when unfolded and offer a closest focusing distance of 1.8m. We particularly love that when gripped with both hands, the central focusing wheel falls directly under the forefinger.
For power users, Leica offers a 10x42 version, but as ever it’s a tradeoff between power, physical size and price. With this brand, we get durability too, with the claim being that they’re water resistant to a depth of 4m, along with the fact they’re O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged to prevent fogging.
In short, if we really are looking for the best binoculars, then this device has most of the boxes that matter ticked. Years of use will reward those brave enough to put up the cash.
| Attributes | Notes |
|---|---|
| Design | Extremely well crafted. |
| Performance | Accurate color fidelity and braod depth of field. |
| Functionality | Waterproof to 4m and fogproof. |
Best small waterproof model
✅ You want something lightweight: They weigh just 0.63 lbs / 285g — ideal for long sessions.
✅ You're on a budget: They're incredibly affordable at under $100.
❌ You wear glasses: The 15mm of eye relief might be a little short.
❌ You want high magnification: The 8x might not be enough for users who want to see more detail.
🔎 Olympus 8x25 WP II: They offer solid build quality and high-quality optics in a waterproof shell that makes them ideal for taking out and about. ★★★★
Those looking for one of the best budget binoculars should look no further than the Olympus 8x25 WP II. Suitable for a wide range of scenarios, this foldable option from Olympus is waterproofed and is also rubber coated for an improved grip.
Providing fuss-free operation, we were able to pluck these binos from the box and start using them straight away when we tested them during our Olympus 8x25 WP II review.
A centrally positioned focus knob affords easy adjustment and prevents needing to take a step forward or backward. Similarly, the multi-coated lenses ensure sharpness into the corners, for crisp and clear observation, while the on-board dioptric correction can be adjusted to suit individual eyesight – handy for those who wear glasses.
While these binos are obviously designed to bring the faraway up close and personal, they also have a close focusing distance of 1.5 meters. All this coupled with a whopping 25-year warranty make the Olympus 8x25 WP II one of the best binoculars out there.
- Read our full Olympus 8x25 WP II review
| Attributes | Notes |
|---|---|
| Design | Compact but incredibly well-built. |
| Performance | Better than expected image quality, but not ideal for low-light. |
| Functionality | Fully multi-coated lenses along with top tier BaK-4 porro prims. |
Best for shaky hands
✅ You want something compact and lightweight: They're small enough to fit in your coat pocket and weigh 15 oz / 430g without batteries.
✅ You want image stabilization: We were impressed with the IS on these binos.
❌ You wear glasses: The 13.5mm of eye relief is a bit short.
❌ You want to use them in low light: The objectives aren't big enough for low-light use.
🔎 Canon 10x20 IS: They stand out from the crowd by virtue of the battery-powered, gyro sensor incorporating image stabilization feature that transforms a slightly wobbly image at full magnification to a buttery smooth one. ★★★★
Resembling something out of Star Wars, these bulbous lens-shifting, image stabilized, porro prism type binos are some of the best out there in terms of ensuring a steady image when held in the hand during testing for our Canon 10x20 IS review. Once again, if we need an integral anti-shake feature powered by a responsive built-in gyro sensor, we look to Canon. Requiring a single lithium-ion battery lasting up to 12 hours of use to power said anti-shake feature, the weight without is a manageable 430g, making them the world’s lightest of their type.
Attendant features of the Canon 10x20 IS include a closest focusing distance of 2m, while a neck strap and carry case are included. These would be ideal for wildlife and sports, for which clarity and sharpness are especially essential.
However, be warned if outdoor use is your thing; this particular option makes no claim for being water resistant. Nor does it claim to be fogproof so moving between warm and cold climes quickly will introduce internal fogging which can take a while to reduce. It's quite surprising for a binocular that costs around $500.
You can also check out the slightly larger Canon 10x32 IS if you need something with a little more zoom.
- Read our full Canon 10x20 IS review
| Attributes | Notes |
|---|---|
| Design | Good build quality, compact and lightweight. |
| Performance | Best suited for daytime use. |
| Functionality | Body integral image stabilization. |
Best for stabilization
✅ You need them to be waterproof: They are Canon's first image-stabilized binos to offer waterproofing.
✅ You need good magnification: The powerful 10x magnification and 42mm objectives let a ton of light in for detailed images.
❌ You're on a budget: They're very expensive, so consider whether you need image stabilization.
❌ You want something lightweight: They're quite weighty and could be too heavy to hold for long periods.
🔎 Canon 10x42L IS WP: The contemporary design of this model makes it look like a Star Wars prop but, while its bulbous body design won’t be for everyone, the reason for the shape — its battery-powered image stabilization — is effective, and will impress most users. ★★★★
A powerful magnification combined with a relatively large objective lens can often result in bulky, heavy binoculars which can lead to a wobbly handheld view.
However, Canon avoids this in the Canon 10x42L IS WP, with the ‘IS’ denoting a built-in image stabilization powered by two AA batteries — the outcome being a judder-free view of faraway subjects. We were very impressed when we tested them out during our Canon 10x42L IS WP review.
Of course, the need for batteries inevitably adds both weight (here over 1kg in total) and bulk, but keen birdwatchers who are holding binos for longer periods may well find the tradeoff is worth it.
However, this pair of binos is not just a one-trick pony. Unlike the 10 x 20s above these are fully waterproof and have a minimum focusing distance of 2.5m.
Equipped with ultra-low dispersion glass elements the binoculars correct distortion and avoid purple fringing between high-contrast elements in an image.
In short, this Canon provides a rock-solid combination of wobble-free viewing and image clarity, albeit at a price. They're one of the more expensive models on this list, so it's worth considering whether you really need image stabilization enough to pay $1500 for it.
- Read our full Canon 10x42L IS WP review
| Attributes | Notes |
|---|---|
| Design | Feels weighty and easy to hold. |
| Performance | Powerful magnification and top-tier optical quality. |
| Functionality | Canon’s first image-stabilized binos to offer waterproofing. |
Best for bird watching
✅ You wear glasses: They have a generous 19mm of eye relief.
✅ You're a keen wildlife watcher: They're a bird watcher's dream.
❌ You want something lightweight: They're not the heaviest on this list at 1.88 lbs / 853g, but you could certainly find lighter options.
❌ You don't want to spend loads: They're very expensive.
🔎 Leica Noctivid 10x42: The dream pair of binos for wildlife watchers, they're waterproof and fogproof for use in adverse weather, and durable to last you for years. Just be warned, they are very expensive. ★★★★
Leica is another key brand providing some of the best binoculars out there when it comes to optical excellence tied to a durable build. Here the Leica Noctivid 10x42 comes in either 8x42 or 10x42 combinations of magnification and objective lens size.
Other advantages include a compact construction with a rubber-armored exterior aiding a tight grip, while possible lens reflection is suppressed enough to deliver a detailed view with plenty of contrast.
Though suitable for general-purpose use, these would be ideal for viewing nature, sports and outdoor events. Its large-ish objective lens is not only great for daytime viewing but also in the early evening.
On top of this, the Leica Noctivid has a nitrogen-filled magnesium housing to help prevent fogging and is watertight to a depth of 5m, making them perfect for use in all weather conditions.
Possible accessories for the more adventurous include an optional floating strap and an adapter for a tripod. If you’re buying a Leica, you’re buying a tool for life and that feels very much the case here. They're undeniably a substantial investment, but if you can afford it, they'll last you as long as you want them.
| Attributes | Notes |
|---|---|
| Design | Compact yet robust construction. |
| Performance | Excellent light transmission. |
| Functionality | Watertight to a depth of 5m. |
How to choose the best binoculars for you?
The best binoculars typically offer that sweet spot between good magnification, large-ish objective lens, size, weight and cost.
Which of these factors is most important to you will depend on what you're planning to use your binoculars for. We've gone over each of these specs below to help you figure out which you should prioritize when choosing a pair of binoculars.
Lens size and magnification
The stronger the magnification and the bigger the objective lens, the closer we can bring faraway subjects and the sharper the overall image. While that sounds great, there is a trade-off, however: a chunkier pair of binoculars and a higher price tag. Additionally, the stronger the magnification, the trickier it can be to achieve a steady, judder-free view when using the binocular handheld.
Portability and stability
Not all models offer a workaround via a screw thread for tripod mounting, and of course not all of us want to be karting around a tripod anyway. So, in some circumstances – for example, if our key purchase requirement is a device compact enough to fit in a pocket or purse – then less can actually be more.
If we want a binocular to take to the sports stadium, theatre, music festival, or even for that weekend city break, portability is as important as power. If our chief concern is wildlife watching and identifying rare breeds from a fairly static viewpoint, however, then bigger binos all around are going to be the better option.
Other features to look out for
Further features to look out for if we’re going to be primarily using them outdoors include a degree of weather resistance. This typically involves nitrogen-purged housing to avoid lens fogging, while various lens coatings are applied to both offer improved light transmission and also cause any droplets to simply run off and avoid obscuring our view.
How we test the best binoculars
Live Science tests a large range of products, from air fresheners to telescopes and fitness equipment. When reviewing a product, we put it through its paces with an array of different tests. These may include extensive use in our test centers, in-lab benchmarks, and even testing in real-world conditions.
We also examine the product's performance against their manufacturer's claims, often seeking input from experts where needed. We evaluate a range of factors, such as a product's ease of use, ergonomic success, and performance, compared to its competitors. Price is also a big factor, and we analyze a product's value for money, which affects our overall evaluation and review rating.
Through this combination of research, expert consultation, and meticulous testing, Live Science offers its readers honest and authoritative advice on all the products it reviews.
