Whether you're spotting warblers tucked into dense foliage or tracking hawks soaring on thermals, the right optics can transform every moment in the field. With so many binoculars and spotting scopes available, understanding what features matter most can help you choose gear that matches your birdwatching style and environment. In this guide, we’ll break down what to look for so you can feel confident in your next optics purchase.
The most common birding binoculars come in 8x and 10x magnification. An 8x binocular offers a wide field of view, making it easier to scan wooded areas or follow quick-moving birds. These are excellent all-around performers, particularly in closer-range environments like forests or brush.
If you're often scanning open landscapes, wetlands, or looking for distant raptors, a 10x binocular may be a better fit. The added magnification brings far-off details closer, though it may come with a slight trade-off in field of view, image brightness, and stability. As magnification increases, some users also notice more image shake unless stabilizing support is used.
Birders who venture out in unpredictable weather or across varied terrain benefit from waterproof and fogproof features. Waterproofing ensures that your binoculars are sealed against dust, dirt, and moisture, keeping the internal components safe. Many models are filled with nitrogen or argon gas to prevent internal fogging in humid or cold environments, which is especially important during early morning outings or sudden temperature changes.
These protective features not only keep your view clear but also extend the life of your investment.
If you wear glasses while birding, look for binoculars that offer at least 15mm of eye relief. This ensures you can see the full image without straining. Models with adjustable eyecups are particularly useful, allowing you to quickly switch between glasses-on and glasses-off views for added comfort and flexibility.
For birders who want to observe fine feather details, monitor distant species, or avoid disturbing their subjects, a spotting scope is a game-changer. Spotting scopes offer higher magnification than binoculars and are best suited for long-distance or stationary viewing. Ideal for shorebird watching, raptor migration sites, or bird counts from blinds.
When you see a spotting scope described as 20–60×80, the last number refers to the objective lens diameter in millimeters. This number tells you how much light the scope can gather. More light equals a brighter, sharper image, which is especially helpful at dawn, dusk, or in overcast conditions. Here’s a general guide:
50mm: Lightweight and compact, great for travel and on-the-go birders
60–66mm: A balanced, versatile option for a wide range of conditions
80–88mm: Best for low-light performance and digiscoping (attaching a camera or phone for photography)
Choosing your lens size depends on how and where you typically bird, as well as how much gear you're comfortable carrying.
Most birders prefer spotting scopes with zoom eyepieces, like a 20–60x range, which lets you adjust magnification based on the distance and lighting. Fixed magnification eyepieces, on the other hand, often offer a wider field of view, making it easier to follow moving birds or scan large flocks.
Some spotting scopes come with an eyepiece included, while others allow you to choose one that fits your viewing preferences. Be sure to consider this as part of your purchase.
Your scope should be built to handle the same conditions you face in the field. Waterproof and fogproof construction is a must, just as it is with binoculars. Look for rugged housings and rubber armor that can withstand bumps and moisture.
You'll also need to decide between an angled or straight body design. Angled scopes are better for shared viewing, especially among birders of different heights, and they tend to offer more comfortable tripod use over long periods. Straight scopes allow for quicker target acquisition, especially when viewing birds flying overhead or perched in trees.
Need help choosing the right scope? We’re here for you, call us at (928) 443-5900 or contact us here.
Looking to go deeper into the world of optics? Our Understanding Optics Guide covers essential topics like how magnification affects field of view, what “close focus” really means in the field, and how glass quality can change your entire viewing experience. You’ll also find insights on choosing gear based on habitat, lighting, and target species.
Let your optics do the work so you can spend more time enjoying the birds in sharp, vivid detail.
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