The Cornell Lab Bird Academy Discussion Groups Birding Tips Best birding binoculars

    • Mari Jane
      Participant
      Chirps: 5
      Can anyone recommend one or two good birding binocular brands based on personal usage? Thanks! MJ
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    • The Joy of Birding
      Participant
      Chirps: 1
      I use the Nikon Monarch 3 8x42.    They're great! https://www.outdoorgearlab.com/reviews/camping-and-hiking/binoculars/nikon-monarch-3-8x42-atb
    • william
      Participant
      Chirps: 1
      OK, same question but more on the magnification part what is the best binocular ; 8x42 or 10 x 42??
      • Yordan
        Participant
        Chirps: 2
        I have both but found that 8x42 is more convenient for birding. It is more easy to find birds with a wider field of view.
    • Ken
      Participant
      Chirps: 1
      I have a pair of Leica 10x42 which have great optics but are quite heavy and uncomfortable for birding purposes. They serve me well at sports events but are not suited for mobile nature observations. It would be important to try a new pair out in person before before making a purchase.
    • Owen
      Participant
      Chirps: 51
      Vortex in general are great binoculars. So i would recommend those, But maybe im to late
    • Rob
      Participant
      Chirps: 2
      Swarovski 10 x 42 is the only way to go. I have tried Leica 8 x 42 and more recently bought Swarovski 10 x32 . I have also owned Zeiss 10 x 32 . Nothing compares to a good 10 x 42.
      • Lisa
        Participant
        Chirps: 1
        I also agree with Rob, I received the Swarovski 10X32 as a gift and love them.
    • Frankie
      Participant
      Chirps: 99
      Hi. I like Zeiss, Swarovski Optiks, and Nikon binoculars. They all provide good, crisp, clear looks at birds. I hope this is helpful. Happy Birding!
    • Samuel
      Participant
      Chirps: 1
      I am new at birding.  Based on the recommendation of an experienced birder, last year I purchased a Nikon Monarchs 8x42.  I have been extremely happy with these.  There is a good width that allows you to follow more easily for birds in flight.  Anything with more magnification will provide more close up detail but will make it more difficult to follow in flight and will require you to have a very steady hand.  I purchased these on sale at REI for a little over $200.  Very clear and bright.  Well attached lens  covers at both ends.  Reasonable weight.  Highly recommend.
      • Lucy
        Participant
        Chirps: 1
        I have also been using Nikon Monarchs for birding but a note of caution from my personal experience: those "attached" distal lens covers blew right off on a boat when looking at pelagics.
    • Hello, I recently purchased the Vortex diamond back 8x32 and am pleased with my purchase. I was looking for something lighter than my old pair. Rocky