When choosing binoculars, the core is to match key parameters according to one's usage scenario (such as viewing, bird watching, astronomy, etc.), while also considering portability and budget.

1. Core parameters: determine observation performance

This is the foundation of purchasing, which directly affects clarity, field of view, and applicable scenarios.

Magnification and objective aperture: The parameters are usually labeled as "8 × 42" and "10 × 50", with the former being magnification and the latter being objective aperture (unit: mm).

The higher the magnification, the better. High magnification can lead to a smaller field of view and more shaky images. It is usually recommended to choose 8-12 times for handheld use.

The larger the aperture of the objective lens, the more light enters, and the observation in low light environments (such as in the evening or indoors) is clearer. However, the equipment will also be heavier. For daily portability, 32-42mm can be selected, and for high low light requirements, 50mm or more can be selected.

Field of view: refers to the range that can be seen at a single time, usually expressed as "XX meters of field of view at 1000 meters" or "XX degrees". The larger the field of view, the easier it is to find targets and track moving objects (such as birds and moving scenes). It is recommended to prioritize large field of view models for bird watching and viewing.

Optical coating: affects light transmittance and image quality. The coating grade, from low to high, is usually:

Ordinary coating (single-layer): Low light transmittance, suitable for entry-level or budget limited scenarios.

Multi layer coating: With improved light transmittance and brighter images, it is the mainstream choice.

Full coating (multi-layer coating on all lens surfaces): With the highest transmittance and reduced reflection, it is suitable for scenes that require high image quality, such as astronomical observation and low light viewing.

2. Usage scenario: Matching functional requirements

The emphasis of telescopes varies in different scenarios, and blindly selecting high-end models may result in performance waste.

Daily viewing/travel: Priority should be given to choosing 8 × 32 "golden parameters", which balance portability (usually weighing less than 500g) and clarity, suitable for long-term handheld use.

Bird watching/wildlife observation: requires high magnification and large field of view, recommended 10 × 42 or 12 × 50, some models will be equipped with a "close focus function" (the closest focus distance is 1-3 meters), making it easy to observe the details of birds at close range.

Astronomical observation: requires a large aperture (50mm or more) and full coating, preferably 10 × 50 or 12 × 60, but the equipment is heavier (usually 1kg or more), and it is recommended to use it with a tripod.

Sports events/concerts: Emphasize portability and fast focusing, choose 8 × 25 or 10 × 32, small size and easy storage, some models have "anti fog and waterproof" function, suitable for outdoor environments.

3. Body and Experience: Affects Comfort of Use

Weight and Material: In handheld scenarios, it is recommended to control the weight within 800g, as excessive weight can cause arm soreness; The preferred material is magnesium alloy or engineering plastic, which is lightweight and durable.

Waterproof and anti fog: If used outdoors, in humid or high temperature environments (such as rainy days, mountainous areas), it is necessary to choose a model labeled "IPX7" and "nitrogen filled anti fog" to avoid fogging or water damage to the lenses.

Focusing method: divided into "central focusing" and "independent focusing". For daily use, central focusing is preferred (single wheel can adjust clarity), which is more convenient to operate; In special scenarios such as high magnification astronomical observations, independent focusing can be considered for higher focusing accuracy.

4. Budget: Balancing Performance and Cost

Entry level (300-800 yuan): Suitable for beginners or occasional use, with parameters of 8 × 32 and 10 × 42. Optical coating mainly consists of multiple layers, meeting basic observation needs.

Entering the class (800-2000 yuan): Brands (such as Nikon, Zeiss entry-level, Stellar) and better picture quality, equipped with full coating, nitrogen filled anti fog, suitable for bird watching and frequent outdoor use.

Professional grade (over 2000 yuan): Using high-end optical glass and craftsmanship, the image quality and durability are fully satisfied, suitable for astronomical observation, professional bird watching and other scenes with extremely high performance requirements.