Equipment

A comparison of entry-level binoculars worth considering for birding. All are 8x42 or 10x42 — the standard for most birders.

Entry-Level Binoculars

Brand	Model	Magnification	Objective	Price	Pros	Cons
Vortex	Viper HD	8x	42mm	$640	+ Very bright image + Feel solid + Waterproof/fogproof + Unlimited lifetime warranty	− Top of entry price range − Stiff focus wheel
Maven	C1	8x	42mm	$400	+ Great image, bright and detailed + Excellent close-focus + Waterproof/fogproof + Unlimited lifetime warranty	− Narrow field of view
Maven	B1	8x	42mm	$900	+ Great image, bright and detailed + Excellent close-focus + Waterproof/fogproof + Unlimited lifetime warranty	− Larger — can be unwieldy for smaller hands − Very expensive for entry level
Nikon	Monarch M7	10x	42mm	$500	+ Well constructed + Good close-focus + Great clarity	− Heavy − 10x amplifies hand shake