Choosing the Right Binocular

You don’t have to be an expert to select which Audubon binocular is right for you -- except perhaps on how you plan to use them! Just consider these factors, and choose based on your needs:

Just consider these factors, and choose based on your needs:

Magnification:  Binoculars are identified by a pair of numbers, like 7 x 35.  The first number refers to its magnification, or “power”.  A 7 means your subject will appear seven times larger, or closer.  The greater the magnification, the larger the subject will appear, but the narrower the field of view.  7, 8 or 10 power models are usually best for birdwatching.  Higher powered binoculars magnify hand jitter and are not as bright in on rainy winter days.

Objective Lens Diameter: The second number, 35 in our example, describes the size of the lens at the other end, away from the eye.  A larger objective lens gathers more light, for better viewing in dark conditions, and produces a brighter, more detailed image with a wider field of view.  Binoculars with large objective lenses are generally not compact in size.

Size: If you want to carry or use your binoculars for extended periods of time, consider compact or mini binoculars.  The technology behind these convenient binoculars has been vastly improved in recent years! 

It may help you to familiarize yourself with the following binocular terms:

Near Focus: the closest distance at which a subject can be viewed; select 15 feet or less for watching feeder birds

Exit Pupil: The diameter of the beam of light leaving the eyepiece; 4 or more millimeters indicate brighter images in low light

Lens Coatings:  reduce light loss and glare, and improve light transmission and contrast.  As the quality of lens coatings increase, so does price.

Prisms: Roof prism binoculars are longer and slimmer than those with porro prisms.