Compact binoculars: FAQs
How do I set up my binoculars?
Setting up your binoculars is simple with our five-step guide
Our testing revealed most of the instruction booklets that accompany our featured models are unhelpful when setting up and adjusting the binoculars.
If you want a quick and easy set up, then our five-step guide will help you get started.
- Look at a plain scene, such as sky or grass, and move the barrels of the binoculars using the central hinge until you see a single bright circle.
- Cover the barrel which has the dioptre adjustment on its eyepiece, (usually the right side). It’s best to use the lens cap, but if you don’t have these to hand then try closing that particular eye.
- Look at a fixed object in the distance and focus the binoculars using the central focusing wheel. Adjust until the image appears clear and sharp.
- Next cover the left barrel and, looking at the same object, use the dioptre adjustment on the right eyepiece to make the image clear and sharp.
- Open both eyes to look through both eye pieces at once. Your eyes should now see the sharpest image possible and you should feel no strain in the eyes.
Once the dioptre adjustment has been set, unless someone else uses your binoculars, you can simply focus using the central focusing wheel.
What do the numbers mean?
The model name of binoculars, (often written on the chassis of the model), is followed by two numbers which indicate their specification. For example ‘Olympus 8x25’.
The first number is the binoculars’ magnification. This tells you how many times larger an image will appear, compared with that seen by the naked eye.
The second number refers to the objective lens diameter. This is a measurement of the lenses at the end of the binoculars – the place where light enters. It’s recorded in millimetres, and the larger the measurement, the more light the binoculars can take in. This will make the image appear brighter, especially in dim light conditions, (all other factors being equal).
How do you test binoculars?
Our experts perform a series of scientific tests to find you the best-performing binoculars. Testing is focussed on the optical performance of the binoculars, although our thorough research also considers the features, mechanical and environmental performance of each model.
In addition to the scientific tests, a panel made up of expert, amateur and novice users evaluate the ease of use of the binoculars, considering the instructions, setting and adjusting, and use and grip.