It’s best to have two pairs with different zooms, depending on what the situation calls for.
The issue with magnification is that anything too high (like 12x or more) will mean you need to hold the binoculars incredibly still. Otherwise, the magnified image will be too blurry.
It’s best to have a tripod alongside your binoculars if you really want to zoom in on a specific bird.
You could also get image-stabilizing binoculars, but the more features you add, the more you’re drifting away from the lightweight feel of a pair of field glasses.
Typically, it’s best to aim for a magnification of about 8x power, as it’s easier to find birds and allows for a broader scope and brighter appearance.
Aperture
The second number in the identification is the aperture. This number shows the diameter in millimeters of the objective lenses (how big around the lenses are that you hold). The bigger diameter also allows for more light to come in, so if you need to go birding at darker times (such as early morning, dusk, or when it’s cloudy), the clearest image will be with a bigger diameter.
Field of View (or FOV)
One feature to look for when determining which pair of birdwatching binoculars to get is the field of view, also known as FOV.
You can see more, or get a wider field of view, with an 8-power than a 10-power. So, target a pair of binoculars with a lower-numbered FOV if that’s what you’re hoping to do.
For example, effective FOV is what you desire when you want to see a greater spread of birds in the sky, rather than only one bird, or if you’re working to see a smaller, individual bird amongst a lot of shrubberies.
Essentially, FOV helps you see the context of what you’re looking at. And it’s easier to spot a bird if your binoculars are lower-powered.
However, if you’re trying to see more details, like the feathers or entire bird – you want to worry more about the magnification than the FOV.
Pro Tip: Most people who like to bird watch usually go for a lower power – as it can sometimes be challenging to spot a bird at all.
When you’re looking at buying birdwatching binoculars, keep in mind the FOV is based on the eyepiece, not the objective lens (the one facing the birds). Therefore, you need to ask the right questions if shopping in person or take time to read the description if you’re shopping online clearly.
Image quality
When analyzing how clear your binoculars will be, there’s an objective number for comparison.
The Clarity/Crispness score allows for easy decision-making when you account for what features you need.
If you have a slightly smaller, lightweight pair, try not to go below 30 mm if you’re looking to preserve image quality.
Practical Aspects
Price Range
You can still get some great lightweight birdwatching binoculars, even in the lower price range. Just be sure to assess your needs and find a few that you like.
When deciding which to buy, it’s OK if you don’t buy a top of the line, name brand pair. You can still have a good experience with a slightly less expensive set, as long as you know what you’re looking for.
As you gain more experience, you may think you should upgrade to more expensive binoculars.
However, expensive doesn’t always mean better quality, more features, or a better picture! Pay the most attention to things like:
- Shockproof
- Waterproof aspects
- Features
- Function
Warranty
If you do decide to invest in a slightly more expensive pair, you may want to ensure it has a warranty, especially if you’re just starting out! You may get a pair that claims to be water or drop-proof and later find that claim to be wrong or defective.
Overall Feel
Your best bet if you’re still unsure what to choose is just to get a feel for them by testing them in the store.
You’ll only know what you want if you have a little experience.
You could also ask people who work there. Binoculars aren’t exactly one size fits all; you may do better with a lighter pair, a bigger pair, etc.
Weight
Simply going for a “lightweight” pair of birdwatching binoculars isn’t always as simple as it seems. You have to factor in the shape, balance, and weight distribution as well.
If your field glasses are too big, you won’t have enough control to move quickly. If they’re too light, they may lack functionality or be too small.
Balance is vital, so it depends on what you’re looking to find.
Eye Relief
You may be set in every way with your birdwatching binoculars.
But if you have glasses, you may be thinking the opposite a few minutes into your excursion. This is where eye relief comes in.
Most binoculars have eyecups that go in or out to help with seeing. This may be a prerequisite if you don’t wear contacts. That is, unless you usually wear contacts, but get caught on a day you decided to wear your glasses!
Birding Advice for Beginners
Birder Strategy
The best way to look for birds is to do your research beforehand.
You’ll need to know the following:
- Best season to find particular birds
- Kind of bird you’re hoping to see
- The general area where birds can be seen
Once you set up camp
- First, familiarize yourself with the size and shape of the bird.
- Next, analyze the primary color and the pattern that covers it.
- Finally, understand its behavior and where it typically resides.
Be Slow
When bird watching, it’s important to be slow and cautious in your movements.
