Top 8 binoculars for observation with different lens diameters
Binoculars are a versatile optical device that should be in the arsenal of every hunter, tourist or nature lover. When choosing a device, many criteria are taken into account, including weight, magnification, the presence of image stabilization, etc. But many people prefer to select the device according to the lens diameter and only after that they pay attention to additional characteristics. This rating of the best binoculars is based on this principle. It describes the best models with lens diameters ranging from 30mm to 50mm, so that everyone can find a device with the best performance.
Best binoculars with a 30mm objective lens
The lens diameter of 30 mm is considered small, but such a device will be sufficient for observing sports events in a stadium or for fish while fishing. In addition, such binoculars can be bought for a child to teach him how to use optical devices correctly. The users recognized three models as the best in this category.
Canon 10 × 30 IS II
Canon is a renowned manufacturer of office and optical equipment. The binoculars of this brand, according to user reviews, at first glance attract attention with their unusual design, although their functionality is very decent. The case has an ergonomic shape, and the weight of the device is only 600 grams, so it is easy to hold it in your hand for a long time. The outside of the device has a rubberized coating, so it is not afraid of dust and moisture. The binoculars are equipped with an optical stabilizer, which makes the image clear even in the presence of unfavorable factors (for example, wind). The lenses are also multi-coated to keep them clean and keep the image sharp even with intensive use.
| Interpupillary distance | 55-75 mm |
| Increase | 10x |
| Exit pupil diameter | 3 mm |
| Field of view (at 1000 m) | 105 m |
pros
- clear picture with minimal distortion;
- effective stabilizer prevents ghosting or blurring of the image;
- the rubberized body is comfortable to hold in the hand;
- double gyro sensor provides independent control of optics for each eye;
- affordable cost.
Minuses
- no tripod mount provided;
- the rubberized coating gets dirty quickly.
KOMZ BPOs 7x30
Rugged and reliable binoculars, which are definitely worth recommending to tourists and lovers of extreme outdoor recreation. The metal case of the device has a rubberized coating that protects the device from dust, moisture and shock. The weight of the device is quite impressive (1100 grams), so it can be difficult to hold it in your hand for a long time. The binoculars feature separate focusing of the lenses, and the picture remains clear and detailed even in foggy and rainy weather. The device is also suitable for night observation.
| Interpupillary distance | 55-75 mm |
| Increase | 7x |
| Exit pupil diameter | 4.3 mm |
| Field of view (at 1000 m) | 150 m |
pros
- there is a goniometric grid to determine the distance to the target;
- The optimum ratio of price and quality;
- excellent image detail across the entire field of view;
- reliable domestic manufacturer;
- not damaged when dropped.
Minuses
- not very high quality plastic eyepiece cover;
- leatherette cover wears out quickly.
Nikon Monarch 7 10 × 30
High quality and relatively inexpensive binoculars suitable for fishermen and outdoor enthusiasts. The device weighs just over 400 grams, so you can always carry it with you. Such a small mass is explained by the fact that the body is made of plastic, and a rubberized coating is provided for additional protection from moisture and dust. The set includes a cover.Users appreciate the quality of the picture: it is bright, clear and detailed, and the eyes do not get tired even with prolonged observation. There are no problems with adjustment either: the image initially has no distortions and chromatic aberrations, even if the observation is carried out at dusk.
| Interpupillary distance | 56-72 mm |
| Increase | 10x |
| Exit pupil diameter | 3 mm |
| Field of view (at 1000 m) | 117 m |
pros
- compactness and light weight;
- clear bright picture, even when observed at dusk;
- high-quality rubberized body;
- fast and clear focusing;
- low dispersion lenses with multilayer coating.
Minuses
- the eyepiece cover does not fit very tightly;
- when viewing some objects, there is a pronounced yellowness.
Best binoculars with 40mm lens diameter
Binoculars with a lens diameter of 40 mm are considered good devices for orienteering and hiking. They allow you to clearly distinguish distant objects, and additional functions (such as stabilization) improve image quality. In this category, you should choose one of the three models described below.
Olympus 8 × 40 DPS I
Inexpensive binoculars with excellent functionality, which were positively appreciated by most users. The body is made of rubberized plastic, so it is convenient to hold the device in the hand, and if accidentally dropped, it will not be damaged. A tripod mount is located under the front axle cover. The lens caps are separate and snug, but you can accidentally lose them, so the owner will have to attach a thread or wire to them on their own. Additionally, a cover is provided in the kit. The binoculars have good mechanics. All controls rotate smoothly and without backlash, which allows you to quickly adjust the viewing parameters.
| Interpupillary distance | 60-70 mm |
| Increase | 8x |
| Exit pupil diameter | 5 mm |
| Field of view (at 1000 m) | 143 m |
pros
- affordable cost;
- sharp contrasting image;
- the caps fit snugly to the eyepieces, so it is difficult to accidentally throw them off;
- quick and easy sharpness adjustment;
- due to its light weight and ergonomic body, it is comfortable to hold in hands.
Minuses
- sometimes catches glare;
- darkens the image a little at the edges, but this is not critical.
Nikon Action EX 8 × 40 CF
The cost of this well-known brand binoculars is higher than that of some analogues, but it is fully compensated by the functionality of the optics. The rubberized housing reliably protects the device from moisture and dust, and the internal filling with argon and nitrogen prevents the lenses from fogging. A high-quality durable case is provided with the device, but users find it not very convenient due to the lack of carrying straps. The device itself is well assembled: the parts do not dangle, and all the regulators turn smoothly. Also binoculars have a good luminosity. It allows you to get detailed images of the area during the day and at dusk. The device is also suitable for night observation, but subject to bright moonlight.
| Interpupillary distance | 56-72 mm |
| Increase | 8x |
| Exit pupil diameter | 5 mm |
| Field of view (at 1000 m) | 143 m |
pros
- rubberized ergonomic body does not slip out of hands;
- high definition and sharpness of the image;
- waterproof case included;
- there is a lace to be worn around the neck;
- the minimum focusing distance is 5 meters.
Minuses
- single eyepiece caps slide off easily;
- high price.
Best binoculars with 50mm lens diameter
The 50 mm lens diameter is not the largest, but it is quite enough for tourists, hunters and orienteering enthusiasts. Such an optical device not only brings the picture well, but also allows you to inspect a large area of a remote area. Quite often, these binoculars are used by the military, but they are worth buying for those who like hiking, hunting or observing nature.
Nikon Aculon A211 10 × 50
In terms of price, functionality and quality, users call this device one of the best.The binoculars are large enough and weigh 900 grams, so it is not very convenient to take them with you on a hike as an additional equipment. But for hunting, long hikes or orienteering competitions, it is great. The device produces a very high-quality and detailed picture, and not only in the daytime, but also at dusk. Also, users appreciate the rubberized material of the case: it is pleasant to the touch and sits firmly in the hands. The surface coating protects the device from damage if accidentally dropped. The set includes a case, and the binoculars themselves are equipped with a strap for wearing around the neck.
| Interpupillary distance | 56-72 mm |
| Increase | 10x |
| Exit pupil diameter | 5 mm |
| Field of view (at 1000 m) | 114 m |
pros
- it is possible to mount the device on a tripod;
- multi-coated aspherical lens for high image quality;
- low level of chromatism;
- quality materials and assembly;
- affordable cost.
Minuses
- not suitable for astronomical observations;
- eyepiece covers are loose, you may accidentally lose them.
LEVENHUK Atom 10 × 50
In terms of cost, these binoculars are often referred to as devices of the middle price category, which does not harm the functionality at all. The device magnifies objects tenfold, and the picture remains clear not only in daylight, but also at dusk. These binoculars are not suitable for night viewing and stargazing. But with an angle of view of 115 meters and a minimum focusing distance of 16 meters, it can be used for hunting, orienteering and hiking. The body has a hole for mounting on a tripod. Also, users appreciate the durable rubberized case with protection from dust and moisture.
| Interpupillary distance | 56-72 mm |
| Increase | 10x |
| Exit pupil diameter | 5 mm |
| Field of view (at 1000 m) | 115 m |
pros
- solid assembly without backlash;
- good luminosity at dusk;
- reliable protection against dust;
- the ergonomic shape of the body provides a comfortable grip;
- Includes a neck strap.
Minuses
- for long-term observation, it is better to install the device on a tripod due to its high weight;
- some users don't like the quality of the strap.
Pentax SP 16 × 50
In these binoculars, users primarily appreciate the build quality and reliability of the design. This optical device is suitable for both nature observers and those who are professionally engaged in tourism, hunting or orienteering. The binoculars provide 16x magnification, and although the field of view is not very wide (61 meters), this is enough for high-quality viewing of the area and distant objects. The rubberized case is resistant to dust and moisture, and also fully protects the internal filling of the device from damage if accidentally dropped. The kit includes lens and eyepiece caps, as well as a neck strap.
| Interpupillary distance | 58-71 mm |
| Increase | 16x |
| Exit pupil diameter | 3.1 mm |
| Field of view (at 1000 m) | 61 m |
pros
- rubber retractable eyecups;
- very bright and clear image;
- diopter adjustment rotates with little effort and does not go astray after installation;
- ergonomic rubberized body;
- affordable cost with advanced functionality.
Minuses
- does not always give a high-quality picture at dusk;
- no tripod bracket included.
Conclusion
When choosing binoculars, you should focus on the frequency and scope of its use. The best binoculars with a 30mm objective lens are great for bird and animal watching, short hikes or fishing. But for hunters and those who often go on multi-day hikes, it is better to choose more durable, reliable and professional models with a lens diameter of 40-50 mm. Such devices give a clear and bright picture and perfectly bring distant objects closer, although they are not suitable for astronomical observations.
