Binoculars under 100 – Buying guide & Comparison
Are you in need of a new pair of high-quality binoculars but do not have the budget needed to acquire the most expensive items on the market? We have reviewed some of the best binoculars under 100 and, after reading reviews offered by various customers and the specifications provided by the producers themselves, we have concluded that the best inexpensive binoculars available for sale are the Nikon 8245 ACULON 8×42 binoculars. There are several features that make them so good; one of them is their lightweight design and excellent ergonomics, aimed at increasing comfort and ease of use. The central focus knob makes them easy to operate and focus, meaning that they can be used by anyone in need. The eye cups are made out of rubber and increase comfort during extended periods of use. Since they are available at a low price and might quickly be sold out, another item worth taking into consideration is the Bushnell Legacy Prism Binoculars.
Comparison table
Our Top Choice
An alternative that speaks to explorers at all levels could be this one. For its price category, it gives you more than an expensive model could: a smooth central focus knob for fine-tuning, a solid body, and excellent performance. And since it is light, you can pretty much take it anywhere with you.
As it is the case with many binoculars, buyers tend to complain that the highest magnification doesn't offer as much clarity as low ones, which is normal.
Quality and affordability are hard to find, that's why you should not miss the opportunity to try it out. If you are an environmentalist, the lead and arsenic-free Eco-Glass lenses will appeal to you, just like the fact that it is equipped for hiking.
2nd Best
Imported equals premium devices most of the time. And it sure is the case with this tool. It has a sleek and very attractive body, and it is crafted from the highest quality materials. Some of its top specs are the wide-angle 8x magnification and the 42-millimeter objective lenses.
Some reviewers mentioned that the plastic pieces meant to protect the eyepieces kept falling off while driving on a bumpy road, not entirely unusual.
You shouldn't hesitate to invest in something that has a long life and that has all the current improvements in the field. If you add its sturdy body to the appealing price tag and magnification power, you'll see that it is a bargain.
Also To Consider
There are several advantages offered by these binoculars that no one can overlook. They offer good vision in low light conditions and are a solid option for birdwatching. Because of the folding design, you will appreciate how compact they can get for easy transportation. The lenses are fully multi-coated for superior picture quality.
These binoculars are not a good option for people who have their eyes set far apart since they are tiny, and the distance between the lenses is very short.
If you are looking for a pair of really compact binoculars, these are the ideal choice since they are small, lightweight, and they even fold so that they don’t take up too much room in your backpack.
Obtaining the best binoculars for your needs is not very easy given that in the past few years the market has been literally flooded with cheap, high power binoculars for professional and amateur use. We conceived this buyer’s guide to make it easier for you to decide what to buy without having to read countless cheap binoculars reviews.
Magnification is an important aspect
Whether you are a bird watcher, a hiker or a trainspotter, having a high magnification power is very important. The distance to the subject and the environment in which you are going to use the binoculars should give you a hint about the magnification desired. In urban situations, a 15x or more binocular is not necessary, and, moreover, the size of such a product can be a drawback.
For these situations, an 8×42 or 10×42 binocular is more than enough. However, when the environment is a wide field of view, a hill or basically any place in nature, 8×42 might prove to be not powerful enough. It goes without saying that for stargazing or long distance hunting such a pair of binoculars is useless.
In the situations aforementioned, a 15×70 and everything above this is desirable. Even though they are larger in size, most binoculars beyond the 15x range are fitted with tripod adapters to increase comfort.
Size does matter
Imagine that you have to carry a pair of huge binoculars in your backpack when going to the mountains. When all space has to be used to store food, water and other accessories used when hiking, it might be that the only option available is to use the strap and tie the binoculars around your neck.
It is uncomfortable, dangerous for the product since it might be subjected to shock and not efficient. In this situation, the smaller the binoculars are, the better it is. Compact and ergonomic designs do not necessarily imply reduced power and range.
Sometimes, you might find that similar magnification is achieved with some of the best binoculars that are very different in size. However, when you are driving your car in the countryside and see a faraway castle, you would have no problem in taking out a big product and using it to magnify the image. In urban environments, compact designs are preferred for their ease of use and portability.
Durability is important too
The customers that have children know too well that the little ones are curious about any new item brought in the house. Your binoculars are no exception, but if they are resistant and sturdy, this will be no problem.
Hikers also appreciate resistance because, when climbing a steep slope, the neck strap might not be tight enough and impacts may occur between the rocks and the product.
Most items are rubber coated and armored, making their grip slip-proof in rainy weather, but also resistant to shock, daily wear and tear or inadequate storage. In urban situations, crowded places might put pressure on the exterior of your item and damage it, if it is not resistant enough.
Field of view and image brightness
The field of view is different for each product. If you do not need a very wide angle, do not go for binoculars that are specialized for this since they might cost more and the money spent might not be worth it. Usually, the field of view is specified for each product or series.
Image brightness and image quality can become very important in low light situations. Multi-coated optics technology increases clarity and brightness, but be careful since some binoculars are less suited for low light scenarios (those used at sea, for example, tend to offer a darker image so that the observer is not blinded by the reflection of sunlight in the water). Fully multi-coated optics are the best as they ensure excellent light transmission.
Other details you should take into consideration
Warranty is a factor that might not seem important, but in the long run might prove helpful. Some manufacturers do not offer any warranty, or they limit it to a certain period, while others have policies that include 1, 2 years of warranty or even lifetime availability.
Eyecups can have a poor design or are not always foldable. Be careful if you are wearing glasses or contact lenses, as these might get scratched while using the binoculars. Eyecups also increase comfort in long periods of use and are surely not to be neglected.
Who should use binoculars?
While in the past these units were mainly used by the military, there are a lot of people who are enjoying their benefits today, as one can pick a very reliable product from the best binoculars under 100. The great part about these devices is that if you choose a quality device, the pair of binoculars can be a great partner for outdoor adventures.
No matter if you are into bird watching or other activities, such as hunting or backpacking, a good pair of binoculars with the right objective lens and magnification power can definitely make your entire experience better. With this being said, it’s important that when you choose your next device, you think about how you are going to use it.
For instance, if you go for a model that has a 10x magnification, you may deal with some image shakiness if you don’t use a tripod. On the other hand, for activities such as bird watching, using a tripod is not really helpful, given that you need to follow your subject and quickly focus the image. Of course, the choice depends on your experience as well.
Still, if we’re talking about watching a sports event, then a 10x magnification and maybe a little tripod are a great idea, so it’s important to take all the factors into account when you choose a new pair of binoculars.
Types of binoculars
You may be looking through the best binoculars under 100 asking yourself which option has the right objective lens for bird watching, but before you go into these technical aspects, you should first take a look at the different types of binos out there. There are three main categories when it comes to these devices, the first one being the full-sized model.
A full-sized pair of binoculars usually comes with an objective lens that is 40mm or larger. These products are able to take in a higher amount of light, which means that they can ensure a good viewing experience in darker environments. Nikon has some models that work very well for all purposes, so you can definitely take a look at what the brand has to offer.
Mid-sized models are, of course, a smaller version that usually includes 30 to 39mm objective lenses, and if you go for a unit that comes with a 10x magnification, you will probably like the fact that they are easier to handle, especially if you need to rapidly focus the image.
Given that you are looking for quality in the product, you should always keep in mind that a comfortable eye relief is a must-have. This is where well-known brands, such as Nikon, are not going to disappoint you.
The third category consists of compact binoculars. These models are extremely handy and easy to focus, given their size, and if you are looking for quality but also portability, they can be a great alternative. Thanks to their design, compact models can be easily carried when you are backpacking.
As you can imagine, when looking through the best binoculars under 100, you will find plenty of compact options. If you go for a model offered by a reliable brand, such as Nikon, you’ll get all the benefits you need, including a comfortable eye relief, and the ability to quickly focus the image.
Prism type
There are two main types of prisms you can choose from, namely the roof prism or the Porro one, and you can easily tell the difference between them. Models that have a roof prism come with barrels that have a relatively unitary width from end to end. A Porro prism, on the other hand, is narrower towards the eye relief, and wider, resembling a cone.
Binos with Porro prisms are usually more affordable, as they are cheaper to produce, so you can get a unit with great clarity and light without spending a fortune. Devices with roof prisms, on the other hand, are more compact, lighter, and easier to render waterproof.
5 Best Budget Binoculars (Reviews) in 2024
Considering the number of objects available on the market, choosing good binoculars for the money can prove to be difficult and time-consuming. After we have checked surveys, reviews written by customers and compared them with the producer specifications, we have compiled a list of the best products. These are showcased below.
Contents
1. Nikon 8245 ACULON A211 8×42 Hunting Binocular
Having good binoculars is essential for every outdoor adventurer out there. Whether you are climbing mountains and desire to zoom in on the villages below or you go hunting or fishing, the Nikon ACULON A211 binoculars should always be by your side in these adventures.
Their lightweight, compact and ergonomic design makes them easy to carry around and comfortable to use. Since the central focus knob is smooth, they can be easily focused and allows for fast magnification changes.
Regardless of what you want them for, it is most likely that you need them to last long and resist impact. The Nikon A211 8×42 compact binoculars have a durable rubber armor coating, made to handle any environment they can encounter.
They have a non-slip grip that resists any weather situations. Rubber eyecups that are adjustable make this item comfortable even if they are used for a longer period of time. The state of the art, multicoated Eco-glass lenses enhance image brightness, delivering great clarity and precision.
Pros
Thanks to the ergonomic and lightweight design, these Nikon binoculars are very easy to use and carry around, even if you are planning to do this for longer routes.
The central focus knob is very smooth, which makes it easy to adjust as you are handling the device, saving up valuable seconds in the process.
The binos also feature the Aspherical Multicoated Eco-Glass Lenses technology that works to ensure clear images in various lighting conditions.
Given that the unit features a durable rubber-armored coating, there’s little chance that it can slip from the user’s hands, even in wet conditions.
Cons
The lens caps have little gripping power according to some reviews, so you might need to find a solution for this.
You should check with the manufacturer if you are planning to use these binoculars during rain since they are not suitable for wet outdoor weather.
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2. Bushnell Legacy WP 8 x 42 Binocular
A very good binocular for the money is the Bushnell Legacy Porro Prism Binoculars. The high quality materials have been used for manufacturing this product, designed to provide outdoors adventurers with high-quality optics at reasonable prices.
Their fully multi-coated objective lens offer a wide field of view, enhanced by their remarkable BaK-4 prism glass and Porro prism system.The rugged rubber armor absorbs any impacts that might take place during usage, offering a firm grip on the binoculars in any kind of weather and environment.
Speaking of ruggedness, the Bushnell Porro Prism Binocular is 100% waterproof, fog proof, and it comes with a limited life warranty offered by the producer. The eyecups are adjustable and made for long time usage without hurting the eye or becoming uncomfortable.
A central focus knob is easy to reach with either hand, so focusing is a lot easier. Even though they are not very small, their design is compact and ergonomic, with the intention of making them easy to carry around.
Pros
This Bushnell model features a 50mm objective which ensures a larger and brighter field of view and, therefore, is suitable for more uses than smaller alternatives.
Thanks to the multiple layers of anti-reflective coating, the device ensures bright high-contrast images.
The IPX7 waterproof construction makes it suitable for outdoor use, given that the O-ring sealed optics remain dry inside even when it’s immersed in water 3 ft. deep for a period of 30 minutes.
You might also enjoy the fog-proofing nitrogen construction that keeps the interior optical surfaces clear and free of any fog that might otherwise appear due to sudden temperature changes or humidity.
Cons
According to some reviews, the unit is quite large so someone with smaller hands might have a hard time handling it.
The strap that comes with the binoculars seems a little flimsy, which means that you will probably want to buy a sturdier one.
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3. Aurosports 10×25 Folding Binoculars
Lightweight binoculars are ideal for long trips when you need to be judicious about what you pack. Not only are they lightweight, but these binoculars can even fold so that they are easy to carry around. The 10x magnification is great, and it will help you observe your surroundings with ease. The 25mm objective diameter is small, which helps with the compact design of these binoculars.
You might not expect it in a pair so cheap, but this one comes with fully multi-coated lenses for proper light transmission, and they behave well in low light conditions, too. With a large field of view for how small they are, these binoculars offer excellent value for the money.
You can take them with you when you go boating, sailing, or whale watching because they are waterproof and come equipped with a durable grip that makes sure you won’t drop them by accident.
Pros
The broadband green film applied on the lenses increases light transmission so that even in low light conditions, you can still use your binoculars.
Made from durable ABS plastic and protected by rubber armor, this pair of binoculars is much more durable than you might expect for the price.
With a field of view of 362 feet at 1,000 yards, it does more than most units in the same category and provides you with the possibility to take in your surroundings at a glance.
Designed to withstand tough weather conditions, they are waterproof, skid proof, and shockproof, so you can count on their dependability.
Cons
If your eyes are a bit far apart compared to the average person, you will find these binoculars challenging to use because they are extremely small.
The strap that comes with the binoculars is difficult to attach and might give you some headaches in the long run.
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4. Bushnell Falcon 10×50 Wide Angle Binoculars
The Falcon series was conceived to offer powerful magnification, versatility, and reliability at a reasonable price. This particular item uses quality optics designed for clear and bright images regardless of the environment and weather.
An autofocusing Porro prism system makes them easy to use and comfortable for extended periods of watching. A rugged design with rubber coating means that the grip is slip-proof, protecting the internal pieces against violent shocks.
The Bushnell Falcon 10×50 binoculars were designed for bird watching and for observing outdoor sports on large arenas. The field of view is approximately 300 feet at 1000 yards, with a wide angle; the closest focusing distance is 25 feet.
People with sunglasses or contact lenses can use this item without any problem since the clever fold-down eyecups protect the lenses against scratching and other damage that might result; the eye relief comes in handy. This one comes with fully multi coated objective lens.
Pros
The 133450 Falcon binoculars feature high-quality optics that display bright and clear viewings in various weather and lighting conditions.
Thanks to the exterior rubber coating, the chances of the unit slipping from the user’s hands are small, so this is not something to be worried about.
The field of view is large, namely of around 300 feet at 1000 yards, while the closest focusing distance stands at 25 feet.
The unit can be used by those who wear glasses or contact lenses without any trouble, given the fold-down eyecups and the eye relief included in the design.
Cons
This model was designed for bird watching, so if you’re planning to look at the night sky for observations, a more specialized unit will work better.
Some users have found it a bit difficult to focus, but this can also be a matter of getting used to handling the binoculars.
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5. Celestron 71009 SkyMaster 15 x 70 Binocular
The Celestron SkyMaster binocular features very high magnification power at an affordable price. This product is known for its reliability and resistance, but also for the crystal clear image quality it provides.
Multi-coated optical technology has been used to achieve this performance, while a BaK-4 Porro prism binoculars system makes focusing easier. For fine focusing, it has a diopter adjustment included.
Celestron SkyMaster come with a tripod adapter, and their massive power makes them ideal for stargazing and for birdwatching or trainspotting from great distances. The eye cups are foldable, so this is a friendly binocular for those who wear contact lenses or glasses.
Even though they are not extremely compact and easy to transport, they have high-quality materials on the exterior, making them durable and resistant to shock. Like all the other items presented, they are waterproof and fog proof and can be used in almost all environments. Low light settings are no problem for this product because it tends to brighten the image quality.
Pros
Thanks to the 70mm objective lens, this unit ensures that maximum image brightness is delivered in any conditions, including low-light and long-range ones.
You will be able to enjoy clear viewings given the 15x magnification power that ensures an ultra-sharp focus over the field of view.
No matter if you are planning to use this device for terrestrial or astronomical views, the multi-coated optics are going to ensure that a sharp image is obtained.
For enhanced long-term use, the rubber easy-grip cover ensures that the binoculars are not going to slip out of your hands, and the unit also comes with a carrying case.
Cons
According to some of those who have given this model a try, the binoculars are somewhat heavy, so you might want to use them with a tripod for longer viewings.
In rare cases, chromatic aberrations also appeared, but the seller can help with assistance in this case.
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Why Do Binoculars Have Red Lenses?
Whether you use the best binoculars for hunting or the best kids binoculars, these optical instruments come with a variety of features that affect the performance delivered. From the types of lenses used to the coatings applied, we have described below what you need to know about binoculars.
Hobbies come with great benefits and, thanks to today’s technology, you can enhance many of your outdoor experiences significantly. If you’re into bird watching, hunting, stargazing, or spending time in the middle of nature to enjoy its beauty, binoculars, spotting scopes, and monoculars are a must.
These optical tools will help you see things and animals that are far away in greater detail. You will thus get the things of interest closer to you without getting physically closer to them. For example, when it comes to hunting, you most probably don’t want to get too close to the target. Binoculars will help you do that by enabling you to see them magnified and in greater detail.
Therefore, they are compulsory in some cases such as hunting in order for you to stay safe. If you’re new to binoculars and want to learn more about them, the way they work, and why they have colored lenses, this post might be of help.
Lens types
Binoculars might seem simple pieces of optical equipment yet it took hundreds of years from the discovery and invention of glass for people to create functional binoculars, with lots of noteworthy scholars and inventors being involved in this long process.
Everything binoculars include counts as far as the performance delivered is concerned yet the most important part is the lens used. Binocular lenses come in a variety of shapes and sizes and their role is to focus light rays from a great distance so you can get a clear image of things that are far away.
However, there are different types of lenses that do different things. Convex lenses bring distant light rays into focus making them come together, the reason why these lenses are also known as converging lenses. Concave lenses make these light rays diverge; therefore, they are also called diverging lenses.
Converging lenses are used to make things look bigger, so, you will find them in magnifying glasses and tools that are designed to magnify. Diverging lenses can be found in different pieces of equipment such as movie projectors.
Binoculars, lenses, and prisms
Many outdoor activities require the use of optical tools to enable people to see distant things clearly. To enjoy that, you need two convex lenses placed one in front of the other, though. The first lens is designed to catch the light rays from the distant object and make a focused image behind the lens.
This is the objective lens, called so because it is the nearest lens to the targeted object. However, a second lens is needed in order to see the distant target clearly and properly. It’s the second lens the one that basically picks up that image and magnifies it. This is how a telescope works and binoculars are two telescopes placed side by side.
However, there is a catch. If you’re familiar with magnifying glasses, you might have seen things upside down when using one. This happens because light rays from a distant object cross over when passing through a converging lens and, unfortunately, the second lens in binoculars won’t solve that problem.
Yet here is where binoculars are different. These optical devices come with two prisms in order to deal with this problem. These large wedges of glass are used to rotate the image so you can see things the way they are and not upside down. The first one rotates the image by 90 degrees and the second one will do that again so the image you see is as in real life.
Lens coatings
Still, the lenses employed for binoculars receive various other features in order for the user to enjoy a good image quality. Different models come with different features, hence the difference in the image quality delivered. Lens coatings are part of those characteristics that count a lot when it comes to image quality.
Since light might be negatively affected and thus lost when transmitted through a lens as it may reflect off its surface, manufacturers use chemical coatings to enhance light transmission and reduce reflective loss. Given the fact that binoculars and spotting scopes feature various lenses, coatings gain even greater importance.
Up to 5 percent of the light transmitted through an uncoated lens can be lost. The coatings won’t just help reduce light transmission loss but they will also enhance basic color transmission. High-end binoculars sport multi-coated lenses and some models feature up to 80 thin coatings for enhanced results.
There are different types of coatings used and thus different results delivered. Some binoculars come with lenses that are simply described as being coated, which means that only one thin anti-reflective coating has been applied to one lens surface or several surfaces of the lenses used.
In the case of fully-coated lenses, though, at least one thin anti-reflective coating has been applied to both the objective lens and the ocular lens systems. This coating is applied to both surfaces of these two systems as well as to the long side of the prism.
Then there are multi-coated lenses that, as the name suggests, feature multiple layers of coating on one or several lens surfaces. Binoculars with fully multi-coated lenses feature several layers of coating on all lens surfaces.
Today’s market also offers phase-coated binoculars. In such cases, a phase-correction coating has been applied to one side of the prism featured. This dielectric material reduces interferences and improves brightness and sharpness.
Why do binoculars have red, green, or orange lenses?
If you’ve already browsed the web for binoculars, you’ve probably seen that they come with different lens colors. Actually, this is how you know if coatings have been used or not. Simply check the objective lens and the reflections of artificial light in it.
If you see orange, red, green, or even purple, then the model you have in front of you features coated lenses. When you see no color and the light is clear, then the binoculars have uncoated lenses.
Now, different coating colors deliver different results. For example, orange coatings will cut down glare and enhance contrast so you can see better even in hazy conditions. Other coatings are employed to remove blue from the image and improve contrast. However, such coatings might leave the image with a yellow tint.
Ruby-colored lenses have become popular lately. One reason behind their popularity might be the fact that they look cool yet the image delivered might have some drawbacks. First featured on Steiner binoculars, these coatings were employed to help hunters get a better image of their target.
Therefore, the red-lens binoculars were developed for hunting purposes and, thus, might not be an ideal option for other activities that require the use of binoculars. These coatings were used to enhance various wildlife colors and help the prey look distinct in foliage by blocking out red.
While ruby-colored lenses did a good job when employed for hunting purposes, they failed to deliver noteworthy image quality when used for general purposes or other outdoor activities since the images got a bluish or greenish tint.
Reducing red or cutting it out is great in certain conditions such as hunting but it is not recommended when the binoculars are used for other purposes. For example, if you’re a bird watcher interested in evaluating plumage, seeing true colors is vital; therefore, neutral lens coatings are a better choice.
You might also consider water-repellent coatings if you intend to use the binoculars even in less pleasant weather conditions. Such coatings will help the water form beads, which means that they will make it easier for you to clean the lenses since dirt particles won’t stick too easily.
That’s why it is best to try out the binoculars you want to buy and consider the activities you want to use them for. Red-colored lenses might look nice yet they are designed to deliver enhanced results when employed for hunting sessions. For general use, other types of coatings are better. Pay attention to the image quality delivered. That’s what matters.
Why Do Binoculars Fog Up?
The image quality ensured by binoculars depends on a variety of factors ranging from the magnifying power delivered to the lens and prism coatings used and whether they’re fog proof or not. Reading adults’ and kids’ binoculars reviews before buying binos is thus mandatory yet there are some things you can do if you end up with your optical instrument fogging up.
Many outdoor activities are enhanced thanks to all sorts of tools and instruments such as spotting scopes and binoculars. Whether you’re interested in birdwatching, hunting, or admiring nature’s beauty in great details, binoculars are a must.
The efforts of many inventors and scholars have made it possible for us to now use advanced binoculars that render the whole outdoor experience remarkable. Thanks to the latest achievements in this field, it is now relatively easy to find good binoculars at a decent price.
However, despite the great specs binoculars may come with, there are some weather conditions that might affect your visual experience when using them to view the objects of interest. If the model you’ve chosen is not fog proof, it is more likely for you to end up with internal fogging of the lens and thus with an unclear image.
How fog forms
Many binoculars available for sale these days claim to be fog proof and waterproof. Even some cheaper models feature such specs. It is not uncommon to get binoculars that promise to prevent fog from forming and still end up with such unpleasant events and thus with reduced image clarity.
Fog forms in certain conditions and it occurs when a cool mass such as a cold surface area and high humidity meet. It can easily form near lakes, coastlines, and tropical locations. Such areas are often preferred for birdwatching and, since binoculars are involved in this activity, you might end up with a foggy view.
Small water droplets collect on the lenses and body of the binoculars you use. When that happens, it takes 15-20 minutes or even longer for the fog to naturally dissipate, which means that the instrument cannot render clear images until the fog has completely disappeared.
Internal and external fogging
When you expose your binoculars to temperature/humidity changes, fog can form on the outer and inner parts of your device. While external fogging is easier to deal with since you can easily wipe away minute water droplets by using a soft cloth, it is a bit more difficult to deal with internal fogging.
Some models make it quite difficult to reach the inside of the binoculars if you need to clean the inner part of the lens. However, if you use binos that allow you to do that, you have to make sure you clean the parts properly in order to avoid any damage. Fine dust particles may scratch the lens if not removed carefully.
Not to mention that internal fogging might also lead to fungus growth, which can further damage the binoculars. If, however, your binos have fogged up inside, there are a few simple things you can do to solve this problem.
If the fog doesn’t dissipate rapidly and thus you are no longer able to use the device, make sure you leave it in a warm place for a few days. Since many models are not airtight, the moisture formed inside should evaporate. Make use of commercial desiccants to absorb the moisture. Seal your instrument inside an airtight plastic bag, add the desiccant, and let the product do its job.
Anti-fog binoculars
To avoid interrupting your birdwatching or outdoor activities because of a foggy view, it is best to get fog-proof binoculars if your budget allows you to do so. Today’s market offers binoculars that were specifically designed to overcome such issues.
Argon and nitrogen are usually used for such optical devices. Models that were built with these gasses will prevent internal fogging from occurring and are usually described as being nitrogen-purged or nitrogen-filled units. Still, this will help you keep your binos fog-free inside and does not mean that fog won’t form on the outer parts of the device.
That’s why some manufacturers make use of anti-fog finishings to prevent small water droplets from sticking to the outside surface of the lens and thus from fogging. These water-repellent substances applied might help you enjoy a fog-free view for a long time as long as you clean the binoculars properly and regularly.
How to prevent binoculars from fogging up
If you cannot afford to buy fog-proof binoculars or you have an older model that you’re satisfied with, there are some simple things you can do to prevent your instrument from fogging up and thus your activity from being interrupted.
A simple and quick way to make your binoculars fog proof is to use anti-fog products. The market now offers a variety of such items ranging from anti-fog wipes to sprays, creams, and drops. These products are usually applied to the lens surface to reduce fog condensation.
The efficiency of these treatments varies from one product to another. Some of them offer fog protection for a few hours while others may help you keep your binoculars fog-free for a week or so after it has been properly applied. Just make sure that you use a product that suits your binoculars and that the manufacturer recommends.
Desiccants are also appreciated for helping binoculars stay dry and absorbing moisture whenever it builds up. There are various such products available these days and they are easy to use and quite effective. You can even use rice or silica gel as a desiccant.
Just put your binoculars in an airtight bag such as a ziplock bag along with the desiccant and leave it so for 24 hours or more. You can employ this method for spotting scopes, monoculars, and various electrical items.
Another simple way to prevent fog from building up is to let the binoculars naturally adapt to the local humidity and temperature. It’s true that this might not be always possible but it is worth trying whenever you can.
Keep the binoculars in a dry place whenever you don’t use them and thus minimize fog exposure. Use an airtight bag and add a desiccant to it. If left uncontrolled, fog exposure can promote the growth of fungus that may damage your device. Even if the moisture inside the binoculars has been removed, make sure that you keep the instrument as dry as possible when going out.
Whenever fog builds up and you want to remove the moisture to enjoy a clear view again, it is highly important to make sure you don’t wipe it roughly. Doing so may damage the lens coatings applied, especially if there are dirt or dust particles that got stuck to the lens.
Since fog may reform if you don’t use anti-fog products to provide you with fog protection for longer, repeated cleaning is required in order to use the binoculars and see things clearly. Removing dust and moisture must be done carefully in order not to harm the fragile finishings applied to the lenses, though.
Overcleaning may thus cause more harm; therefore, clean the instrument when it is absolutely necessary. If it is clean yet moisture has formed, make use of a soft cloth and gently wipe away the extra moisture that has built up.
Factors to consider before choosing fog-proof binoculars
There are many things to take into account when buying binoculars. From the magnifying power they provide you with to the field of view ensured, everything counts. The fog and weather resistance ensured by the binoculars you use is of great importance, too.
Therefore, consider the outdoor activities you engage in and that require the use of binoculars as well as the weather conditions of the locations you frequently go for. It is best to buy binoculars that not only offer protection against fog but that are also waterproof and weatherproof.
Thankfully, most binoculars that are fog-proof are also waterproof, so you will get to address two main issues at the same time. A waterproof body means that water cannot enter the unit. Such items can even stay underwater for a brief time before they can be damaged.
Not allowing water inside the binoculars is mandatory in order to keep the binoculars functional and allow them to ensure high-quality images. By not allowing any water in, you can also prevent moisture and fungus from building up.
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Vanstarry Optics 10X42 High Powered Binoculars
These budget binoculars have been designed to offer sharp and clear images in all environments. Intended for bird watchers and hikers, they have been used by many other kinds of users. This is a pair of compact binoculars.
Their 10x magnification power brings up the details one might want, regardless of the weather conditions. Nitrogen treatment was used to make them waterproof and fog proof, enabling them to withstand any tough environment out there. A lightweight and compact design makes them easy to take around.
Aimed at all kinds of customers, they are also kid-friendly. Wingspan Optics used a specially designed anti-slip exterior grip and a rubber coating in order to make them drop resistant.
A lifetime warranty is also issued by the producer as a special offer for buyers. Focusing is made via the central knob, designed to be easily reachable by all users. Available only in black, they are delivered with a strap, a nylon mesh carrying case, objective lens and eyepiece covers and a non-abrasive cleaning cloth.
Pros
If you are new to birdwatching and you don’t want to spend too much money on a new pair of binoculars, this alternative is both high-quality and affordable.
This is an all-weather unit, so you won’t need to worry about water, humidity, fog, or dust, while the anti-slip exterior also makes it safe to handle in any conditions.
Thanks to the multi-coated lenses you will be able to enjoy clear images in a wide range of lighting conditions.
This model is intelligently designed for the user’s comfort, and it can go from a wide view to a sharp focus in a matter of seconds.
Cons
If you are wearing glasses, the lenses might feel a little narrow, but the manufacturer can help you with more details.
These binoculars felt a bit heavy to some users, so make sure that you check the unit’s overall weight before placing your order.
Bibliography:
1) What are binoculars used for?
2) What to know about binocular basics
4) How to Choose the Right Binoculars
