TOP 9 LIST: Best Low Cost Binoculars in 2022
Enjoying nature’s view does not have to be expensive. This is the reason the people at Etramping decided to source the best low-cost binoculars. You will be able to purchase an affordable pair of binoculars that have the best functionalities in its price range. Read on for the pros and cons of each pair before making a decision.
What are the Best Low Cost Binoculars?
To find the absolute best low cost binoculars we have searched through most of the available best value for money binoculars and read all the comments left by people who bought and used them. Then we compiled the list of the top 9 low cost binoculars based on their pricing, specs and ratings by real users. Feel free to use the results of hours of our research now and thank us later in the comments.
Oh, and just so you know, there are also Buying Guide and FAQ sections below the top products that provide a handy overview of things you may need to know before and after you buy your new low cost binoculars.
1. Occer 12×25 Compact Binoculars with Clear Low Light Vision
| Specs |
|---|
| Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 0.7 Pounds (0.3 kg) Size: 4.3 x 3.9 x 1 Inches (10.9 x 10 x 2.5 cm) Objective Lens Diameter: 25mm Magnification: 12x Eye Relief: 20mm Waterproof: Waterproof |
The Occer 12×25 Compact Binoculars with Clear Low Light Vision are great for seeing far distances while still promising clarity. What we like about the binocular is how it is lightweight and portable, making it good for travel use. The binocular also does not fog up easily, so you do not have to clean the lenses that often. We also appreciate the good customer service they provide. If you are using the binocular for extended periods, take note that there may be a slight plastic odor. You also need to be careful to not hit against the focus knob accidentally to avoid changing the focus.
Pros
- Customer service is good for customers’ queries,
- Binocular is lightweight,
- Binocular does not fog up easily,
- Binocular is great for looking at far distance
Cons
- There is a slight plastic odor from the binocular,
- Focus knob can be tighter
2. 20×50 High Power Military Binoculars
| Specs |
|---|
| Price: 💲💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 1.8 Pounds (0.8 kg) Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm Magnification: 20x Eye Relief: 26mm Waterproof: Waterproof |
The 20×50 High Power Military Binoculars are a good option for those who want a wide field of view in their binoculars. The binocular has a strong rubber coating that can endure the elements of the weather. This binocular also features easy adjustment of the center-focus knob. A plus point about this binocular is how the lens cap is attached to the binocular itself so you don’t have to worry about losing them. We also like how the binocular is relatively lightweight, so you can carry it around for longer periods of travel. Do take note that if you are buying this binocular, you will not be able to attach it to a tripod because there is no screw-hole.
Pros
- Not difficult to adjust the binocular’s settings,
- Comfortable size to grip,
- Lens cap are attached to binocular to prevent losing them,
- Binocular is lightweight
Cons
- Binocular strap is not too secure,
- No attachment to pair with a tripod
3. POLDR 12X25 Small Pocket Binoculars
| Specs |
|---|
| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 0.4 Pounds (0.2 kg) Size: 3.8 x Inches (9.7 x cm) Objective Lens Diameter: 25mm Magnification: 12x Eye Relief: 16mm |
The POLDR 12×25 is suitable for beginners who want to have a feel at using one without spending a bomb on one. Being lightweight, you can use the binocular for many activities like climbing, birding, etc. You can even use it for traveling because it has a compactable body that will fit in your pocket. If you are trying to get your kid interested in nature, this binocular could be your option because it is small enough and not heavy to the extent your kid cannot support its weight. Do no
te that there may be a slight chemical odor stemming from the binocular. Also, you may experience some difficulty at the beginning when you try to focus the images.
Pros
- Lightweight,
- Suit adults and children,
- Compactable body,
- Bright images
Cons
- Hard fo get a focused image,
- Slight chemical odor
4. 10×25 Compact Binoculars for Bird Watching
| Specs |
|---|
| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 0.6 Pounds (0.3 kg) Size: 4.3 x 3.9 x 2 Inches (10.9 x 9.9 x 5.1 cm) Objective Lens Diameter: 25mm Magnification: 10x Eye Relief: 10mm Waterproof: Waterproof |
The 10×25 Compact Binoculars for Bird Watching is a good option for adults but also small enough for kids to use. This binocular is lightweight, so you will face fewer issues while traveling long distances. However, because the binocular is so lightweight, it may be slightly harder to keep it steady. Also, the diopter is not hard to adjust, so kids can learn how to use it with greater ease. Generally, this product provides good value for its price, considering the clarity it provides. Do take note that the eyepieces are slightly narrow. The accessories provided like the binocular casing and the binocular strap are only of acceptable quality.
Pros
- Binocular is lightweight,
- Binocular is small enough for kids to use,
- Diopter is not hard to use,
- Good value for its price
Cons
- Eye pieces could be too narrow for some people,
- Binocular case is not of the best quality
5. 12×42 HD Binoculars for Adults with Upgraded Phone Adapter, Tripod and Tripod Adapter
| Specs |
|---|
| Price: 💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 1.1 Pounds (0.5 kg) Size: 5.8 x 5 x 2.1 Inches (14.7 x 12.7 x 5.3 cm) Objective Lens Diameter: 42mm Magnification: 12x Waterproof: Waterproof |
If you are looking for a lightweight binocular with a high magnification power, this might be the one for you. This lightweight binocular will suit activities like concerts or hunting endeavors. The binocular also has a robust exterior so it will be suitable for outdoor activities. The phone attachment that they provide is also a plus. If you are using the binocular where there are frequent temperature changes, it might fog up often. Thus, be prepared for frequent wipes of the lens. Lastly, do take note that the customer service personnel may take some time to get back to you regarding your queries.
Pros
- Binocular is lightweight considering its high magnification,
- Binocular is easy to adjust,
- Binnocular has strong exterior,
- Phone attachment is a good addition
Cons
- Lenses are not fog proof,
- Customer service is poor
6. Aurosports 10×25 Folding Compact Binocular with Weak Light Night Vision
| Specs |
|---|
| Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 0.6 Pounds (0.2 kg) Size: 3.7 x 3.6 x 2.1 Inches (9.4 x 9.1 x 5.3 cm) Objective Lens Diameter: 25mm Magnification: 10x Waterproof: Waterproof |
The Aurosports 10×25 Folding Compact Binocular with Weak Light Night Vision is a good option for activities like sporting events and concerts. The binocular is light and easy to carry around, whilst also having a robust exterior. It is also relatively easy to adjust the focusing setting on this binocular. This binocular is also waterproof to some water splashes, so you don’t have to worry about slight rain damaging it. A perk of this binocular is the slight night vision capability it provides so you can see clearer images at night. One thing to take note of is that the binocular is not fog proof, so you may need to wipe it every now and then.
Pros
- Item is light and
compact, - Binocular is easy to focus,
- Binocular has slight night vision capability,
- Binocular has solid exterior
Cons
- Binocular strap is not easy to adjust,
- Binocular is not fog proof
7. SkyGenius 10 x 50 Binoculars for Wildlife Watching with Low Light Night Vision
| Specs |
|---|
| Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 1.8 Pounds (0.8 kg) Size: 7.1 x 5.1 x 2 Inches (18 x 13 x 5 cm) Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm Magnification: 10x |
The SkyGenius 10×50 Binoculars for Wildlife Watching is a good option for those who want a wide field of view for birding or for observing rapid movements like sports events. The grip on the binocular is good and comfortable due to the rubber coating. You can also expect a smooth process when you are adjusting the diopter. What we like about SkyGenius is also the positive customer service rating. Take note that the binocular bag strap may not be long enough for you and may even be uncomfortable for some. The binocular is also slightly on the bulkier side, so it may not be too suitable for some.
Pros
- There is a comfortable grip on binocular,
- Good customer service,
- Binocular is well protected with a rubber coating,
- Easy to adjust diopter
Cons
- The binocular bag strap is not long enough,
- Binocular is not compact
8. Bushnell Falcon 10×50 Wide Angle Binoculars
| Specs |
|---|
| Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 1.8 Pounds (0.8 kg) Size: 9.3 x 8.2 x 4.2 Inches (23.6 x 20.8 x 10.7 cm) Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm Magnification: 10x Eye Relief: 9mm |
The Bushnell Falcon 10×50 is suitable for those looking for high magnification at a relatively cheaper price. This binocular is well-suited for activities like hunting and birding due to its wide field of view. It also features a rubber coating to protect the binocular. While trying to adjust the focus of the images, you might be delighted to know that the focus knob is not difficult to manipulate. The ability to focus well for long distances is a plus. Do be reminded that this binocular lacks a tripod attachment, thus it might be a concern for hands-off viewers. Also, the binocular proves difficult to focus in the short distance.
Pros
- Strong rubber coating,
- Easy to manipulate the focus dial for far objects,
- Prompt customer service,
- Binocular provides wide field of view
Cons
- Lack of a tripod attachment,
- Hard to focus in the near distance
9. UsoGood 12X50 Waterproof Compact Binoculars with Tripod
| Specs |
|---|
| Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 1.1 Pounds (0.5 kg) Size: 5.8 x 5 x 2.3 Inches (14.7 x 12.7 x 5.8 cm) Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm Magnification: 12x Eye Relief: 15.7mm Waterproof: Waterproof |
The UsoGood 12×50 Compact Binoculars are a great option for those who love nature and wildlife. The binocular is very suitable for activities like birding or climbing. While climbing or hiking, you’ll be glad to know that the binocular is considered lightweight for the magnification it provides. Thus, it will not be too much of a liability. The external rubber coating on the binocular will also help you grip it more firmly and more comfortably even for long durations. While putting the image into focus, you will be able to do so without much trouble. One thing we like is the prompt reply from customer service personnel when we forward our queries. However, do take note that the tripod they provide is not as stable as we would like.
Pros
- Pretty lightweight for its magnification power,
- Rubber coating provides firm grip,
- Easy to put image into focus,
- Customer service is prompt at replying
Cons
- <
li>Tripod provided is not stable,
- Phone attachment is hard to set up
Verdict
We went through most of the low cost binoculars available today and considered what people who used them are saying about these best value for money binoculars. We also looked closely at their pricing and specs to find that Occer 12×25 Compact Binoculars with Clear Low Light Vision is the overall best low cost binoculars out there.
However, POLDR 12X25 Small Pocket Binoculars is a very good affordable alternative for those who want to get one of the budget best value for money binoculars.
For those who need the absolute best of the best, regardless of the price, 20×50 High Power Military Binoculars is the premium pick.
Our other reviews you may find useful in your research:
What You Should Know Before Buying Low Cost Binoculars
Magnification
Binoculars with a high magnification may sometimes not be beneficial. For instance when hunting/fishing, you do not want a binoculars with magnification that is too high because it reduces the quality of the images. The best magnification is between 7X and 8X. High magnification narrows the field of view, but if your aim is to zoom in on far away items, then higher magnification is your best bet.
Objective Lens Diameter
The objective lens’ size determines the amount of light entering the binoculars. Therefore, the larger it is, the better the image in terms of quality, especially in dark places. When buying a pair of binoculars, check for the lens size, which is the numeric figure right after the X on its description. A ratio of 5 to magnification is best, so in a case where you have an 8 X 25 versus a 8 X 40, the 8 X 40 has better images because generally the lens diameter is wider.
Durability
A quality pair of binoculars can be a hefty investment, hence finding a pair that is long lasting and hardy is important. Get a pair with lens coating to protect them against damage from dust or debris. Waterproofed or fog-proofed binoculars are also good as they protect the lens and body surface, ensuring the longevity of the binoculars. However, always dry off your binoculars if they have water on them, even though they are waterproof. Lastly, its always doot to get a pair with lifetime warranty such as those from Nikon.
Eye Relief
The distance from your eye to the eyepiece’s glass is what is referred to as eye relief. Getting a binoculars with adjustable eye cups are good to provide extended eye relief. If you wear glasses, you will need binoculars with a long eye relief so that your eyes are not too far from it, and in the process are unable to see the full image. If you do not wear glasses, binoculars with long or short eye relief will work just fine as you can adjust the eye cups to your liking.
Angles Of View
An angle of view (AAoV) is the perceived angle of the magnified field when you are viewing through the binoculars. A wide field of view allows you to spot animals more easily without having to move around a lot or scanning too much. The angle of view is usually expressed in degrees and is usually in numeric numbers like 6.3 degrees. The larger it is, the larger the field of view. This feature is especially important when you are hunting, bird watching or even fishing.
Questions and Answers About Low Cost Binoculars
Should I get 8x or 10x binoculars?
With all things equal, a 8x binocular can provide a wider field of view than a 10x binocular. Thus, if you are getting a binocular for viewing objects in the short distance, a 8x may be better for you. However, if you want to observe objects in the far distance, a 10x could work better for you. Do note that a 10x binocular would be harder to stabilize too.
What is a good field of view for binoculars?
Binoculars with a good field of view (F.O.V) should allow you to see more of the terrain and detect your prey without having to adjust your binoculars. Additionally, when targeting a moving animal, binoculars with a good field of view should also support a long-distance view within the circular frame of lenses without shifting the binoculars. In general for a distance of 1,000 meters, most high-quality binoculars have a field of view of 300 to 375 feet.
Do all binoculars have diopter adjustment?
A good pair of binoculars will have a diopter adjustment ring to help you focus a single barrel. However, a cheaper pair of binoculars may only have one focus adjustment to adjust both barrels at once. The purpose of having a diopter adjustment is to account for the difference in visual acuity in the left and right eyes to provide crisp images.
How do you know if binoculars are out of collimation?
To assess whether a binocular is out of collimation, try to find an object with a distinct horizontal line, like the roof of a house. Make sure the object is at least 100m away from you. Slow move your eyes away from the binocular till it is about 3 inches away. Try to focus your eyes more on the eyepieces of the binocular. Now, even a slight miscollimation can be seen clearly with your eyes.
What is the best magnification for compact binoculars?
Compact binoculars with a magnification of 8X to 10X are the best. Because compact binoculars are small and light, they are simpler to hold steady and for longer periods. It means that a high magnification will not necessarily reduce your images’ quality because the lightweight binocular makes it simple to keep them steady and avoid jittery shots. On the other hand, lower-power binoculars will produce a brighter image, allowing faint things to be seen.