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OpticsBinocularsHow to Choose Binoculars 40

Choosing binoculars can feel a bit complicated. There are plenty of specifications, magnification numbers and optical terms to try and get your head around.

Many first-time buyers quickly discover there are hundreds of models available, ranging from inexpensive compact binoculars to premium optics costing several thousand pounds.

The reality is that the "best" binoculars depend far more on how you plan to use them than simply buying the most expensive model available.

A pair of binoculars suited to birdwatching may not be ideal for hiking, while compact travel binoculars involve different compromises compared to larger wildlife or astronomy models.

This guide explains how to choose binoculars in a practical, beginner-friendly way, focusing on the features and decisions that genuinely matter for UK outdoor use.

What Do the Numbers on Binoculars Mean?

One of the first things buyers notice is that binoculars are usually labelled with numbers such as 8x42 or 10x50.

These numbers describe two different things:

For example, an 8x42 binocular magnifies the image eight times and uses 42mm front objective lenses.

In simple terms:

This is one of the most important foundations when learning how to choose binoculars properly.

Should You Choose 8x or 10x Binoculars?

This is one of the most common questions buyers ask.

An 8x binocular provides a slightly wider field of view and is generally easier to hold steady. A 10x binocular brings distant objects closer but can introduce more visible hand shake.

For most general outdoor use in the UK, 8x binoculars are often the safest all-round option.

They work particularly well for:

10x binoculars are often preferred for open landscapes, coastal viewing or situations where subjects are regularly further away.

In practice, the difference is not just about zoom. Stability and viewing comfort matter just as much.

Why 42mm Binoculars Are So Popular

The second number in binocular specifications refers to the diameter of the objective lenses.

42mm binoculars have become the standard all-round size because they balance brightness, portability and usability extremely well.

Smaller binoculars, such as 8x25 or 8x32 models, are lighter and easier to carry but may lose some brightness in poor light conditions.

Larger binoculars can gather more light but often become heavier and bulkier.

For many UK users, especially those regularly outdoors in changing weather and light conditions, 8x42 remains one of the most practical configurations available.

Compact vs Full-Size Binoculars

Many buyers are tempted by compact binoculars because they are easier to carry and store.

Modern compact binoculars can perform impressively well, particularly premium models, but there are still trade-offs involved.

Compact binoculars are usually:

However, they may also:

For occasional use or travel, compact binoculars can make excellent sense. For regular birdwatching or wildlife observation, many users still prefer full-size 42mm models.

What Does Field of View Mean?

Field of view refers to how wide an area you can see through the binoculars.

A wider field of view makes it easier to locate and track moving subjects, particularly birds or wildlife.

This becomes especially noticeable when:

Premium binoculars often justify their higher price partly because they provide a wider and more immersive viewing experience.

In plain English, a wider field of view means less tunnel vision.

Do You Need Waterproof Binoculars?

For most UK outdoor use, waterproof binoculars are strongly recommended.

British weather conditions can change quickly, and moisture is one of the main long-term threats to optical equipment.

Most good quality waterproof binoculars also use nitrogen or argon gas filling to help prevent internal fogging.

This becomes particularly useful when moving between temperatures, such as stepping out of a warm car into cold countryside air.

Even if you are not planning extreme outdoor use, waterproofing adds useful long-term protection and reliability.

Understanding ED Glass

ED glass stands for Extra-Low Dispersion glass.

Without becoming overly technical, its purpose is to improve image sharpness and reduce colour fringing around objects.

Many mid-range and premium binoculars now use ED glass because it helps create cleaner, sharper images, particularly in difficult lighting conditions.

This is one area where buyers often notice a genuine improvement when moving beyond very cheap binoculars.

However, ED glass alone does not guarantee optical quality. Coatings, prism design and overall construction still matter significantly.

Roof Prism vs Porro Prism Binoculars

There are two main binocular designs: roof prism and porro prism.

Roof prism binoculars are now the most common style. They are slimmer, more compact and easier to waterproof.

Porro prism binoculars have a wider traditional shape and are sometimes capable of delivering excellent optical quality for the money, although they are generally bulkier.

Most modern outdoor binoculars in the UK use roof prism construction because it suits waterproof designs and everyday portability more effectively.

How Much Should You Spend on Binoculars?

This depends heavily on how often you plan to use them.

For occasional use, many entry-level binoculars now provide perfectly respectable performance.

Mid-range binoculars often represent the best balance between optical quality and value, particularly for regular outdoor users.

Premium binoculars typically improve:

However, casual users may not always benefit enough to justify very high prices.

How Long Do Binoculars Last?

Good binoculars can last for many years if properly cared for.

Factors affecting lifespan include:

Premium binoculars are often designed to remain reliable for decades, while cheaper models may deteriorate more quickly over time.

Basic care makes a major difference. Keeping binoculars dry, clean and properly stored helps preserve both the optics and mechanical components.

How to Choose Binoculars FAQs

What magnification is best for binoculars?

For most general outdoor use, 8x magnification offers the best balance between stability, field of view and detail.

Are 10x binoculars better than 8x?

Not necessarily. 10x binoculars provide more reach but are often harder to hold steady and may have a narrower field of view.

What does 8x42 mean on binoculars?

The first number is the magnification and the second number is the diameter of the objective lenses in millimetres.

Are compact binoculars good enough for birdwatching?

Some compact binoculars perform very well, although full-size 42mm binoculars are often better in low light and during extended viewing sessions.

Should binoculars be waterproof?

For most UK outdoor use, waterproof binoculars are highly recommended.

What is ED glass?

ED glass helps improve sharpness and reduce colour fringing around objects.

How much should beginners spend on binoculars?

Many good beginner binoculars sit comfortably in the mid-entry price range without requiring premium-level spending.

Do expensive binoculars really make a difference?

Premium binoculars often provide noticeably better sharpness, comfort and low-light performance, particularly during prolonged use.

Edited by Howard Utting

This guide was edited by Howard Utting, Managing Director, who founded Uttings in 1976.

With decades of experience in binoculars and optics, Howard’s technical product expertise is second to none, built on long-standing partnerships with leading brands, customer relationships, and a deep understanding of the products he has worked with for over 50 years.