Nature comes with a lot of beautiful things, especially in summer and spring. These seasons offer us the best outdoor moments in our lives. Winter makes us all want to retrieve to our beds. But how can we make the sunny days even brighter?. Well, with these best binoculars for nature viewing and observation, you can get personal and enough of mother nature splendor.
Nature viewing could be mountain viewing, bird watching, city viewing, beach viewing, and the list goes on. for there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy with a pair of binoculars.
Binoculars come in different sizes and shapes. You can find a lot of them in the market today all for various uses. let’s look at what to look for when you want to select a pair of binoculars for nature observation.
Factors to Consider before Choosing Binoculars for Nature Observation
Every binocular has its specifications. If you take a pair of binoculars, you will often see the magnification, objective lens size and field of view printed on it. These binoculars numbers go along way to telling you what the optimal use for such binoculars might be.
The two major factors to consider when choosing binoculars for nature viewing are the magnification and the objective lens diameter size.
The Best Binoculars For Nature Viewing and Observation
Magnification
The magnifying power of the binoculars tells you how many times close the binoculars will bring you to the object you are viewing. an example is ‘10×42’. The first number is the magnification of the binoculars and which means binoculars with such specs will make the object appear 10 times closer to your visible eyes.
Between eight and ten times magnification is ideal for nature observation and to take out walking, But if you are considering long-range viewing then consider going for higher powered binoculars maybe from twelve onward.
However, you might require a tripod to get more stable views as the higher the magnification, the more unsteady your image might become as the movement of your hands will also affect the image.
Objective Lens Diameter Size
The objective lens size determines the light-gathering power of the binoculars. Bigger lens size means more ability to gather lights from the viewing object. This means a brighter and clearer image. But the downside is that the binoculars become heavy and bulky. so you might want to consider something light if you are going to be doing a lot of walking
Below are the top five binoculars you can comfortably carry with you on your nature viewing adventures. Depending on your budget you will get a pair that is good value for your money.
1. Zeiss Terra ED 10×42 Binoculars
Companies like Zeiss have carved for themselves a name of high prestige. Their prices are always at the high end. So, it was surprising when Zeiss introduced the Zeiss Terra ED binoculars at the most affordable price.
The Terra ED binocular’s chassis is made of glass-reinforced polyamide. This is to strike a compromise between lightweight and strength. For this design consideration, the Terra ED binoculars are lightweight and durable. This enables nature observers to hold their devices on the hand without a strain on their arms and forearms.
Actually, the Terra ED has both 8x and 10x with an objective lens size of 42mm. They both offer similar optical performance except the ten times model offers more magnifying power.
This binocular is suitable for birdwatching, hunting, nature observation, traveling and outdoor activities; the compact design and the large lens diameter are optimal for hunting in fields and forests as well.
Pros
- Fully weatherproof
- Compact, light and robust
- Versatile in use
- Great optical performance
- Wide field of view
Cons
- Few customers complaint their objective lens cover does not fit tightly
- The carry bag that comes with it is low quality
2. Leica Camera Co. 8×42 Trinovid HD Binoculars
The binoculars of the Leica Trinovid-HD family stand for durability, state-of-the-art image performance, and ruggedness. The housing of these binoculars is made of rubber-armored magnesium. This made them very impact resistant.
The Leica Trinovid-HD models unlike their predecessors they offer outstanding color fidelity, image sharpness, compact form, and low weight. This makes them ideal for nature viewing. whether you are going out hunting, bird watching or nature observation the Leica Trinovid will be a perfect companion.
Like all good roof prism type binoculars these days, this Leica Trinovid is fully waterproof, sealed and nitrogen purged to prevent dust and moisture from settling inside. This feature enables you to use them in any weather condition without them being damaged.
All full-size Trinovid binoculars are packaged with a handy Adventure-Strap, which can be used as a comfortable and convenient carrying strap. Also, there is a carrying case, hip belt and binocular belt included in the box.
Pros
- Very compact and comfortable to hold
- Eyeglass wearer friendly
- Weatherproof
Cons
- No major complaints
3. Carson 3D Series HD 10×42 Binoculars
Carson Optical was founded in 1990 by Richard Cameron. This company is committed to excellence and is one of the number one manufacturers of magnifiers in America. The Carson 3D series is one of the best models around.
They are great for nature viewing also for hunting, bird watching, backpacking, hiking, traveling, concerts, sporting events, and other outdoor activities.
This pair features BAK-4 coated prism which is phased shifted for resolution and good color contrast. The ED glass lenses used also reduces color fringing and corrects chromatic aberration. this creates sharper and brighter images.
With its long eye relief, eyeglass wearers or sunglass users can enjoy using them with comfort. Included with the Carson 3D is Carry Case, Neck Strap, Shoulder Harness, Lens Covers and Lens Cloth.
Pros
- Backed by America’s Best Binocular Warranty
- Great optical performance
- Tripod adaptable
- Fully weatherproof
- Tough housing construction
Cons
- No major complaints
4. Vortex Optics Diamondback 8×32 Roof Prism Binoculars
Looking for a more affordable and compact nature viewing binoculars?. Then you will find the Vortex Diamondback roof prism binoculars ideal for you. Although the 8X32mm size is not your usual pocket-size pair, it is mid-compact to take with you anywhere you go.
This Diamondback features dielectric, fully multi-coated lenses that transmit more light and produces clearer and brighter images. Known for having one of the largest fields of view in its class, you are able to easily capture your target without moving the binoculars around to get a full view.
Made to be fully weatherproof, the binoculars are argon purged and the body is rubber armored, this makes them able to work even in extreme weather conditions.
Pros
- Good quality images
- Great value for the money
- Compact design
- Fully weatherproof
Cons
- Only one customer mentioned the edges of the visual field are not as crisp as the center.
5. Wingspan Optics NaturePro HD 8×42 Binoculars
If you have used the Wingspan binoculars before, you will agree with me that the Wingspan binoculars usually deliver on what they are made for. The Wingspan NaturePro HD binoculars are no exception.
These NaturePro HD binoculars deliver an ultra-sharp, clear, bright and true color fidelity. Thanks to their high definition glass lenses. They also have an extra-wide field of view that allows you to capture fast-moving things effectively such as birds flying.
This pair is made with bad weather conditions in mind. So, they are waterproof, fog-proof and even drop-proof as Wingspan claims. They also have a non-slip grip for added protection from falling.
Pros
- Clear crisp images
- Extra-wide field of view to capture fast-moving objects
- Lightweight and easy to carry
Cons
- Carrying case, not of great quality
Final Thoughts
Frankly speaking, you will find that all-round binoculars are also ideal for nature viewing. Although these above featured best binoculars for nature viewing and observation can also be used for other outdoor adventurers, It is always good to know whether you are going to be carrying your binoculars around all the time or mount them on a tripod. the more lightweight they are the easier it will be to carry them around for long hours.
Whether you are going bird watching or whales watching in the sea, these nature observation binoculars will give you better viewing experience.