Binoculars for Bird Watching: 8x42 vs 10x42 Explained
When you're just starting out with bird watching, one of the most important pieces of gear you'll need is a good pair of binoculars. But with so many different numbers and configurations, it can be confusing to know which pair to choose. Two of the most popular configurations for bird watching binoculars are 8x42 and 10x42. But what do those numbers mean, and which pair is right for you?
What Do the Numbers Mean?
The numbers on a pair of binoculars refer to their magnification and objective lens size.
- Magnification: The first number (e.g., 8x or 10x) refers to the magnification of the binoculars. An 8x binocular will make an object appear 8 times closer, while a 10x binocular will make an object appear 10 times closer.
- Objective Lens Size: The second number (e.g., 42) refers to the diameter of the objective lenses in millimeters. The objective lenses are the large lenses at the front of the binoculars that gather light.
8x42 Binoculars
An 8x42 binocular is a great all-around choice for bird watching.
Pros:
- Wider field of view: An 8x42 binocular has a wider field of view than a 10x42 binocular. This makes it easier to find and track birds, especially when they're in flight.
- Brighter image: An 8x42 binocular will produce a brighter image in low-light conditions, such as at dawn or dusk.
- Less handshake: The lower magnification of an 8x42 binocular makes it easier to hold steady, which can be important for long periods of bird watching.
- More forgiving of eye placement.
Cons:
- Less magnification: An 8x42 binocular will not bring birds as close as a 10x42 binocular.
10x42 Binoculars
A 10x42 binocular is a good choice for bird watchers who want a little extra magnification.
Pros:
- More magnification: A 10x42 binocular will bring birds closer, allowing you to see more detail.
- Good for long-distance viewing.
Cons:
- Narrower field of view: A 10x42 binocular has a narrower field of view than an 8x42 binocular. This can make it more difficult to find and track birds.
- Darker image in low-light conditions.
- More handshake: The higher magnification of a 10x42 binocular makes it more difficult to hold steady.
- Less forgiving of eye placement.
Which One Should You Choose?
The right choice for you will depend on your personal preferences and the type of bird watching you plan to do.
- Choose an 8x42 binocular if: You're a beginner, you do most of your bird watching in wooded areas, or you want a versatile binocular that is easy to use.
- Choose a 10x42 binocular if: You do most of your bird watching in open areas, you want to see more detail, or you have a steady hand.
The Bottom Line
Both 8x42 and 10x42 binoculars are great choices for bird watching. The best way to decide which pair is right for you is to try them both out. Go to a store that sells binoculars and see which pair feels more comfortable in your hands and provides a better view for your eyes.