Boosters
Opticron Universal Tele-Adapter 2x
Increases the magnification of your Opticron binocular or telescope+eyepiece combination by a factor of 2 (Correction ring also required)
Boosters
What Are Binocular Boosters and How Do They Work?
Binocular boosters are specialist optical accessories designed to increase the effective magnification of your existing binoculars. By fitting between the eyepiece and the user’s eye, or by integrating as an add-on optical element, a binocular booster effectively “boosts” the power of your binoculars without the need to invest in a completely new, higher-magnification model.
This makes binocular boosters a popular choice among birdwatchers, wildlife observers, field sports professionals, and outdoor enthusiasts who occasionally need extra reach. Instead of carrying multiple binoculars into the field, a booster allows you to adapt quickly to changing conditions — for example, when observing distant raptors, surveying open farmland, or scanning coastal environments.
Most binocular boosters are designed to be lightweight, compact, and easy to attach or remove. They work by increasing the magnification factor of your binoculars (for example, turning 8x binoculars into 12x or 16x), though this typically comes with some trade-offs in brightness and field of view. When used correctly, however, they provide a versatile and cost-effective solution for extending your viewing capability.
How to Choose the Right Binocular Boosters for Your Needs
Selecting the right binocular booster requires a clear understanding of how and where you plan to use it. While all boosters serve the same core purpose, their performance can vary significantly depending on optical quality, compatibility, and intended application.
Magnification Compatibility
The first consideration is how much additional magnification you actually need. A modest increase can be ideal for general wildlife observation, while higher boost factors are better suited to long-range surveillance or static observation. It is important to remember that higher magnification amplifies hand shake, so many users pair boosters with tripods and mounting systems for stability.
Optical Quality and Coatings
High-quality binocular boosters use multi-coated or fully multi-coated lenses to maximise light transmission and reduce glare. This is especially important because boosting magnification can reduce image brightness. Premium glass and coatings help maintain sharpness, contrast, and colour fidelity even at higher power.
Field of View and Eye Relief
Boosters inevitably narrow the field of view, so they are best used for targeted observation rather than scanning large areas. Adequate eye relief is also essential, particularly for users who wear glasses. Always check manufacturer specifications to ensure comfortable viewing during extended sessions.
Build Quality and Durability
Outdoor optics are exposed to challenging conditions. Look for binocular boosters that are robustly built, with precise alignment and durable housing. Weather resistance is a key benefit for users operating in wet, cold, or dusty environments.
Ease of Use
For practical field use, a booster should be quick to attach and remove without tools. This allows you to respond instantly when extra magnification is required, then revert to standard viewing when mobility and wider perspective matter more.
Top Binocular Boosters Brands and Models at Uttings
At Uttings, we stock binocular boosters from respected optical manufacturers known for precision engineering and reliable field performance. These brands design boosters to integrate seamlessly with compatible binocular models, ensuring consistent optical alignment and image quality.
Whether you are a dedicated birder, a professional wildlife manager, or involved in field sports observation, you will find binocular boosters that balance magnification, clarity, and usability. Our range is curated to complement premium optics and accessories, including optics accessories that enhance your overall viewing setup.
| Use Case | Recommended Booster Type | Typical User |
|---|---|---|
| Long-range bird identification | Moderate magnification booster | Birdwatchers |
| Open landscape surveillance | High magnification booster | Wildlife managers |
| Occasional extra reach | Lightweight clip-on booster | Outdoor hobbyists |
Binocular Boosters Tips and Expert Advice
For beginners, binocular boosters offer an accessible way to explore higher magnification without committing to specialist optics. Start with a lower boost factor and practise using it in stable conditions. This builds confidence and helps you understand how magnification affects image stability.
Professionals often use binocular boosters as a complementary tool rather than a primary optic. For example, a gamekeeper may rely on standard binoculars for scanning, then add a booster for detailed inspection at distance. When combined with a stable support, this setup can be highly effective.
It is also worth considering environmental conditions. Bright daylight is ideal for boosted viewing, while low-light situations may be better suited to unboosted binoculars or dedicated high-performance optics.
Why Buy Binocular Boosters at Uttings
Uttings is a family-run business based in Norwich, established in 1976, with decades of experience in outdoor and field sports retail. We stock premium binocular boosters and optics from the world’s leading brands, carefully selected for performance and reliability.
With over 45,000 five-star reviews on Trustpilot, our reputation is built on expert customer service, fast delivery, and genuine passion for the great outdoors. When you buy binocular boosters at Uttings, you benefit from knowledgeable advice and products you can trust in the field.
Binocular Boosters FAQs
What magnification increase do binocular boosters provide?
Most binocular boosters increase magnification by a fixed factor, often doubling or adding significant reach to your existing binoculars.
Do binocular boosters reduce image brightness?
Yes, higher magnification typically reduces brightness, which is why quality lens coatings are important.
Are binocular boosters suitable for handheld use?
They can be used handheld, but higher magnification is more comfortable with a tripod or mount.
Will a binocular booster fit any binocular?
Compatibility varies by model, so always check manufacturer recommendations before purchasing.
How does a booster affect field of view?
Using a booster narrows the field of view, making it better for focused observation rather than scanning.
Are binocular boosters weatherproof?
Many quality boosters are designed for outdoor use, but levels of weatherproofing vary by model.
Is a binocular booster better than buying higher-powered binoculars?
A booster is more flexible for occasional use, while dedicated high-powered binoculars suit constant long-range viewing.