The Best Binoculars for Watching Birds (The Birding Binoculars)
1. Nikon Monarch 7 8X42 Nature Birding Binocular
The Nikon Monarch 7 8X42 is an excellent balance between value and the quality you get.
Nikon Monarch 7 8X42 Nature Binocular
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The first thing birders will notice is the image quality. These binoculars use extra-low dispersion glass, which project crystal clear images and vivid colors.
The most impressive thing about these binoculars is how they perform in low light situations. Monarch maintains bright images despite less than ideal light conditions.
Birders will also be happy with the small details Nikon incorporated into this binocular.
The grip feels great and even the included strap stands out as being very comfortable. The Nikon Monarch 7 is built for durability, being both fog proof and waterproof.
2. Athlon Optics Midas ED
The best birding binoculars for nearly everyone
Relatively affordable with great optics, these binoculars have comparable performance to many models that cost thousands more.
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The Athlon Optics Midas ED 8x42—along with nearly all of the other binoculars we tested—are the beneficiaries of a revolution in optical quality caused by the falling costs of precision manufacturing and optical treatments.
For just over $300 you can get a pair of binoculars that matches—that’s matches, not comes close to—products that cost hundreds, or even thousands, more.
The Athlon Midas ED pair’s optics aren’t its only strong suit: These are exceptionally durable binoculars that easily withstood the humid, dusty, and hostile environment of the Mexican rain forest and harsh sun of the Californian desert.
And their focus dial adjusts reliably and smoothly across a wide range of depths, making it easy to focus on what you’re trying to see, no matter where it is.
3. Celestron Trailseeker ED Birding Binoculars
For a smaller grip
These binoculars are a close second to the Athlons, with just-as-clear optics, solid construction, and easy-to-use focusing. They also have a slightly smaller grip than the sturdier Athlons.
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If you prefer a slightly smaller grip or the Athlon Optics Midas ED pair is out of stock, the very similar Celestron Trailseeker ED 8x42 Binoculars are a sharp, easy-to-use choice.
After the Athlons, these were the binoculars I most often grabbed when trying to see a new bird.
Like the Athlon set, the Celestron Trailseeker features crystal-clear optics (even around the edges of the field of view), comfortable ergonomics, and predictable focusing, all in a slightly smaller package.