Top Compact Spotting Scopes This Year – Guide & Comparative Analysis
Do you want the best compact spotting scope, but you don’t have enough time to read our entire buying guide? Here is the only information you need to get the model that is really worth spending money on. Our research involving customer reviews, sales figures, and social media activity, revealed that you should set your mind on the Visionking Maksutov first and foremost. The waterproof construction is ensured by an O-ring design, and you will be able to use this compact model in all weather conditions. It must also be said that it is nitrogen-purged and it combats the effects of fog just as well. The BAK4 prism optics will let you observe nature in vivid colors, even in dim light conditions. In case the Visionking Maksutov is no longer available, our second recommendation is the ROXANT Blackbird, a model with almost the same advantages.
Comparison Table
Our Top Choice
This scope model will be your go-to device whenever you're about to have a new experience. The body is compact and easy to carry, it is 100% waterproof, and for those who like to hunt in extreme environments, it is nitrogen filled. The revered Bak-4 prisms are present too.
The only downside that truly didn't sit well with some customers is that focusing is hard above the 200 yards level.
Finally, this compact unit is geared towards those looking for versatility. The light transmission is enhanced, meaning you're going to get clear images even in poorly lit conditions, especially at dawn.
2nd Best
Another gadget that comes with premium specs is this one from Roxant. It includes many accessories like the tripod, a carrying case, and the lens caps. Additionally, it features a rubber armor construction and its focusing capabilities are enhanced and fast.
One thing that is believed by some people to be a setback is its smooth surface, which is not very grippy in rainy situations.
Even if it’s smooth, the non-slip molded grip will make sure you won't drop it. Its focusing ring is easy to operate, and the extendable sunshade will make sure glare won't interfere with your adventures.
Also To Consider
Black, sleek, and optimized - these are some frequent words used to describe this piece. Like many other scopes, it features multi-coated optics, but its sturdy construction sets it apart from the rest. Moreover, it is completely waterproof and nitrogen purged.
Keep in mind that a user's wife mentioned the plastic around the front of the scope looks cheap, even if the images it offers are clear.
When it comes to good buying choices, it’s hard to go wrong with this one. Its practical design makes it a pleasure to use, and the images it provides are not shaky or blurred.
Finding the best portable spotting scope may not be the easiest job, but we are here to assist you in your quest. Many people prefer the convenience offered by a portable model as they don’t have enough room for a full-fledged model, but they still want to enjoy the same excellent performance. Here are the most crucial features you should find on your ideal portable spotting scope.
Never give up on lens quality
Some people may be convinced that some accessories like a clamp assembly mount for scopes can compensate for a lack of optics performance, but here we are, begging to differ. The lens quality is the first thing that you should never overlook when you are shopping for a spotting scope, even a compact one.
Optics quality depends on several factors. One of them is the quality of the glass used and the prism design. While there are plenty of various models available, and not all have the same features, it is easy to tell which ones have good optics and which ones don’t. Search for products that clearly state that they come with fully multi-coated optics.
What does this mean? When looking through a spotting scope, your image can become distorted, the colors might not be presented accurately, and overall you can be misled in regards to what you see. To combat this kind of mishap, all the manufacturers worth their salt offer superior optics performance.
You might find decent optics even in a cheap compact spotting scope, but do not count on many extra features or a choice of materials that are known to be expensive. Still, try to make a good compromise between optics quality and price. You will appreciate the effort invested the first time you will take a look through the spotting scope once you are out in the field.
Should you pick an angled scope or a straight one?
While there may be more to talk about optics, as the topic is vast, we want to move forward a little and present you with another aspect that you should focus on. As you shop around, you will notice that there are angled models available, as well as units equipped with a straight tube. Which one is best for your needs? Depending on what you want to do, the answer may be one or the other.
If you are passionate about bird watching, or you want to use your spotting scope for astronomical observation, an angled model would be a good option. You can mount it on a tripod and look through it for hours without experiencing any fatigue. Plus, you can always share it with a friend, by taking turns at watching the surroundings.
If, however, you need a spotting scope for terrestrial observations, you will do better with a straight tube scope. For hunters who need to observe their prey when fallen to the ground, as well as for watching from a vantage point, this design is a much better choice than the angled one.
Features you should not live without
A compact monocular should have certain features, even if it comes in a small size, and the same rule applies to spotting scopes. You should always opt for a model that is waterproof and also has anti-fog capabilities, because this way, you can rest assured that you will be able to use your scope in all possible weather conditions.
Don’t neglect the importance of a long eye relief. Many people wear glasses and they should not find their spotting scope difficult to use due to a poor eye relief on the unit of their choice. Another advantage of such a feature is the ability to wear sunglasses while using the scope.
5 Best Compact Spotting Scopes (Reviews) in 2024
It can be quite a daunting task to choose only one of the many compact models for sale, which is why we want to help you out by showing you the following list of compact spotting scopes that are presently appreciated the most by buyers.
Contents
1. Visionking Maksutov Waterproof Bak4 Spotting Scope
If you want a compact model, you cannot go wrong with the Visionking Maksutov. Besides its superlight construction and compact design, this model comes with superior optics. The lens is fully coated and it provides the user with outstanding performance in terms of image quality.
But, as you may already know, a good compact spotting scope needs more than just good optics. The waterproof construction of this spotting scope will convince you right away that your choice is ideal for any weather. The unit is nitrogen purged, and it does a great job in fog conditions, too, as it doesn’t let water droplets create condensation on the lens.
Excellent light transmission is ensured by the BAK-4 prism optics, which means that even in low light conditions, you will still be able to spot details in the surrounding environment. You might not expect a large objective lens in a compact model like this one, but the 70mm diameter used will tell you a different story.
Since you need to be able to rely on such a unit in any type of weather, this spotting scope is 100% waterproof and fog proof, thanks to its Nitrogen-purged construction. It’s also good to know that the Bak-4 prisms construction maximizes light transmission, so you will be able to use the device in various lighting conditions. Given the fully-coated Optic MAK construction, the scope is very compact and easy to carry around, which makes it handy in case you need to often change the spotting position. You will surely enjoy the fully multi-coated optics that ensure superior brightness, as well as a comfortable viewing experience. Some users have found this focus a bit difficult to use, but this is a matter of getting used to handling the unit as well. Details can get a bit blurry when using the highest magnification, according to some of those who have already purchased this model.
2. Roxant Authentic Blackbird High Definition Spotting Scope with Zoom
This angled model will allow you to use it together with your friends when you go bird watching, or you want to examine wildlife from a decent distance. A rugged construction will convince you right away that this model is worthy of your consideration, as the rubber exterior provides you with excellent protection for the delicate mechanisms inside.
All the spotting scopes reviews include this model in their selections, because of the many excellent accessories that are offered with your purchase. You will get more than a compact spotting scope, easy to carry around. The manufacturer supplies a foldable tripod, as well as a carrying case.
You will surely appreciate the lens caps provided, that will protect the objective against damage while the scope is not in use. The focus ring is a handy feature, helping you re-focus with ease on a moving target. Versatile and equipped with high-quality optics, this model is a must-have.
The package comes with multiple accessories, including a foldable tripod, lens caps, and a carrying case so that you can use the scope wherever you need to. The weatherproof construction allows you to use this device during longer outdoor adventures, no matter what conditions you are facing. Thanks to the rubber armor it features, you don’t need to worry about being able to easily handle the scope without the risk of it slipping from your hand. Given that the unit includes fully multi-coated lenses and a Bak 4-prism construction, you will be able to enjoy superior light transmission, as well as brightness for optimal and clear viewings. To some users, the field of view seemed a bit narrow, but this also depends on how you are planning to use the device. In some cases, the focus ring was very stiff, but the seller can provide the necessary details on this.
3. Firefield Spotting Scope Kit
Don’t expect compact models to be equipped with fewer features than full-size spotting scopes. This particular product just proves why you should think like this. With an IPX6 waterproof rating, this model will be your loyal companion in all sorts of weather, and you will appreciate its many other, more than standard features.
The rugged construction is a guarantee that this unit is a sound investment. The fully multi-coated optics and the easy to focus mechanism are part of what makes this particular unit stand out from the crowd. The nitrogen-purged design keeps humidity away, while the sun shades will not allow glare to affect your experience.
Plus, if you’re looking for a budget monocular, this just might be the better choice compared to other models on the market. For its decent pricing, the Firefield Scope Kit even comes with a tripod, something that you do not usually see even in more expensive alternatives.
With a durable body and high-quality optics, this model offers superior results compared to other similar alternatives in its category.
The package includes a heavy-duty tripod, as well as a carrying case so that you have everything you need to take this scope with you on any outdoor adventures.
You will surely be happy about the IPX6 waterproof construction that means you don’t need to worry in case the weather conditions suddenly change and you have to deal with a little rain.
The multi-coated optics ensure great clarity and brightness, so if you are in the market for a reliable scope, this model might be the right answer.
While this is a durable scope, make sure that you don’t expose it to powerful shocks, since these might affect the case.
In one case, the tripod was not delivered with the product, but the seller can help in case this happens.
4. Celestron 52268 C90 Mak Spotting Scope
The Celestron 52268 stands out through its impressive objective lens. You might not expect a compact model like this one to come equipped with a 90mm lens, but this one delivers, and its broad field of view recommends it for many applications. The optics are multi-coated, and they offer a high-quality image performance that will never let you down.
There are some other interesting advantages of this Celestron spotting scope that you should learn about. For starters, the compact design makes it highly portable, so you will be able to take it anywhere with you. You can use this one for observing the sky, just as well as you would perform terrestrial observations.
Its versatility has so far managed to make many people fall in love with it. The sharp crisp image delivered by the optics contributes to its value, and you might just not want to leave on any trip to the great outdoors without it.
Given that this unit comes with both a ¼-20 threaded mounting port and a dovetail rail, it can be easily mounted on multiple types of tripods, including camera and astronomical ones.
You can use the built-in T-mount adapter threads that allow an easy connection to DSLR camera bodies in order to obtain a 1250mm lens.
This Celestron model is delivered with a convenient backpack case so that you can easily transport it, or carry it if you are planning to take longer hikes.
There are other accessories that come with this scope, namely an objective cover, user’s manual, cleaning cloth, as well as a 32mm eyepiece.
The scope needs to be used with a very stable tripod in order to get the superior results you are looking for.
According to a few reviews, you might need some time getting used to handling this scope, so this is something you may want to bear in mind.
5. Bushnell Trophy Xtreme Spotting Scope
This manufacturer is well known for the excellent products it creates and the Bushnell spotting scope we review here is no exception to the rule. The high-quality lens delivers outstanding clarity, so you will be able to spot the tiniest details as you are observing your surroundings through the spotting scope.
As it is well known, this company uses top notch materials and employs superior craftsmanship on their products. You can rest assured that this is a model that will withstand the test of time, and you will get an excellent deal for the money.
It must be said that this model comes with an impressive range of accessories. You will get a tripod, along with a car window mount, as easy use. Two cases, one that is hard sided, and a soft model, serve for carrying the spotting scope around without risking any damage. A glove is also provided.
Given that the Trophy Xtreme scope features premium fully multi-coated optics, there’s not much that you should worry about when it comes to the quality of the images it renders. Thanks to the Porro-prism design, you can also benefit from a compact construction that makes it easier to carry with you on your trips. The zoom magnification goes up to 60x which means that you are going to be able to observe clear details on the subjects you are viewing even when they are away, which makes it great for hunting. You can rest assured that this unit can face various weather conditions are well since it includes a premium waterproof hard-side case. Depending on exterior factors as well, the image might get a bit blurry when the scope is used at the highest magnification. Even though a tripod is delivered with the product, some users have chosen to change it for a sturdier model.
