Binoculars

Binoculars

Binoculars! There are a million and one types, all with their own purposes, benefits and intended users. But something they all have in common is the basic premise - whether they have a roof prism or a Porro prism - binoculars feature a combination of glass elements that enlarge a scene, to provide a magnified image. Now we know this, we begin the process of narrowing down the choices.

We need to consider a range of questions, all of which will help you understand what pair of binoculars are best for you. There are things to consider such as the binocular magnification and objective lens diameter, field of view, eye relief, the binocular design and the quality of its optics. In addition, some binoculars are weather-proof, and fog-proof and can have a grippy rubberised body that makes them easy to handle.

Here at Wex, we have it all. We have the choice and the expertise to help you make that all-important choice. But first up, you need to decide what your budget is, consider what you want to look at and think about how close you want to see your subject. Once you know this, you can wander over to our binoculars buying guide that explains all the ins and outs.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How far can I see with binoculars?

This is a question with many answers - there are many different types of binoculars, each with different focal lengths that allow you to view varying distances. In brief, the numbers on a pair of binoculars refer to the magnification and size. Generally, the greater the first number, the larger the magnification (with the caveat that the field of view will be smaller). But, it isn’t all that simple - there are other factors to consider. Have a look at our buying guide for some detailed insight into what’s best for you.

What are the best bird-watching binoculars?

This depends on whether you’re someone on the move or someone who will be held up in a hide. The former requires a more compact and lightweight setup with a wide viewing angle so that you can easily follow your subject as it flies. The latter allows for a larger pair of binoculars, often with higher magnification and that may require a tripod or other accessories.

What is the difference between Roof Prisms and Porro Prisms?

The difference between these is how they reproduce an image when you look through your binoculars. Porro prisms are the older way of building binos - they have a wide barrel that isn’t aligned with the eyepieces. Roof prisms are a more modern design where the eyepieces and lenses are aligned. However, these designs are not indicative of optical quality - but binoculars with roof prisms often are more compact and lighter.

Can I wear my glasses and still use binoculars?

Most definitely yes. But, there are a few things to consider. Do the binoculars have sufficient eye relief? Your choice of binos depends on why you wear glasses in the first place - are you near or farsighted? We cover these and more considerations in our buying guide.

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