mybest
AccessoriesHelping You Find the Best
mybest
AccessoriesHelping You Find the Best
  • 10 Best Birdwatching Binoculars UK 2024 | Nikon, Bushnell and More 1
  • 10 Best Birdwatching Binoculars UK 2024 | Nikon, Bushnell and More 2
  • 10 Best Birdwatching Binoculars UK 2024 | Nikon, Bushnell and More 3
  • 10 Best Birdwatching Binoculars UK 2024 | Nikon, Bushnell and More 4
  • 10 Best Birdwatching Binoculars UK 2024 | Nikon, Bushnell and More 5

10 Best Birdwatching Binoculars UK 2024 | Nikon, Bushnell and More

Birdwatching has been soaring to new heights within the UK, as many are now adopting a slower pace of life. The UK's thriving ecosystems are filled with hundreds of birds species, which is why learning how to take note of all the unique birds and wildlife your local area has to offer can be incredibly rewarding. Finding the right pair of binoculars for birdwatching can be tough, especially if you're on your way to becoming a fully-fledged 'birder'.


This article discusses lens size, Porro prism binoculars, FOV and more to help you find the perfect pair for all your birding endeavours. With birdwatching binoculars from top brands including Nikon, Bushnell and Olympus, we've ranked the top 10 best birdwatching binoculars in the UK on Amazon, Argos and John Lewis by taking into account their features, reviews and price.

Last updated 25/03/2024

Quick List - Top Birdwatching Binoculars

1

Nikon

Prostaff 8 x 42 Binoculars3S
Prostaff 8 x 42 Binoculars

A Great Pair With a Large FOV, a 42 mm Objective Lens and 8 x Magnification

2

Bushnell

8 x 42 mm All Purpose Binocular H20
8 x 42 mm All Purpose Binocular

Sturdy and Robust High-Impact Binoculars With Super-Grip Technology

3

Gosky

10 x 42 Binoculars for Bird Watching
10 x 42 Binoculars for Bird Watching

A Full-Sized Pair of Roof Prisms With 10 x Magnification at a Reasonable Price

4

Slokey

Binoculars for Adults - Professional and Powerful Binoculars
Binoculars for Adults - Professional and Powerful Binoculars

High Functioning Compact Binoculars With 42 mm Objective Lenses, Specifically for Birdwatching

5

Nikon

Aculon 10 x 25 BinocularsA30
Aculon 10 x 25 Binoculars

Pocket-Sized, High-Quality Binoculars With a Multi-Layer Coating for the Avid Birder

mybest Editing Team
Guide
mybest UK
mybest Editing Team

A recommendation service that carefully researches each product and consults with experts across many disciplines. We are constantly creating new content to provide the best shopping experience from choosing ‘cosmetics’ to ‘food and drink’, ‘home appliances’ to ‘kids and baby’ products, reaching users all across the United Kingdom.

mybest Editing Team's Profile
…Continue reading

Table of Contents

How to Choose Birdwatching Binoculars in the UK

Key Points to Consider
  1. Choose the Type Of Binoculars Based on If You Prefer Design or Functionality
  2. Consider the Measurements Such As Magnification, Lens Size and Field Of View
  3. Pick Water-Resistant Binoculars for Birdwatching in the Rain
  4. Ensure the Binoculars Are Portable By Picking a Lightweight Pair
1

Choose Between Porro or Roof Prism Binoculars Based on Whether You Prioritise Design or Functionality

Choose Between Porro or Roof Prism Binoculars Based on Whether You Prioritise Design or Functionality

Opt for Roof Prism Binoculars, if You’re Looking for a Compact and Lightweight but Durable Design

With roof prism binoculars, the eyepiece lenses and objective lenses are the same size. This straight barrelled lens function allows roof prism binoculars to be lighter in weight than Porro prism - always a welcomed relief for birdwatchers out on a full-day scouting mission.


This compact design will generally allow for a more shock resistant and waterproof pair, giving you added reassurance in their ability to handle the UK's unpredictably wet and windy weather. As they have fewer externally moveable parts, they can also handle more wear and tear than Porro prism binoculars. 


Because of this more complex and durable design, a pair of roof prism binoculars will typically be more expensive than Porro prisms. You should always be wary of inexpensive roof prism binoculars as the brightness and image clarity will likely be lessened.

For Those Who Require a Wide Field of Vision and Decent Depth Perception, Go For Porro Prism Binoculars

Invented by Italian Ignatio Porro in 1854, the Porro prism design projects light captured by the objective lens through a Z shaped set of prisms. This binocular style is ideal for short-range birdwatching as they have larger objective lenses, giving rise to a wider field of view and better depth perception. 


They are much easier to produce than roof prism binoculars, making them a cheaper option. While budget is always a consideration, when starting out, you should be aware that Porro prisms are less durable due to their bulky design. This is because the potential of damaging them is a lot higher if they're dropped. 

2

Select the Magnification, Objective Lens Size, and Field of View Based on Your Purpose and Experience Level

Select the Magnification, Objective Lens Size, and Field of View Based on Your Purpose and Experience Level

Check the Magnification: Choose 10x Magnification for Zoomed-in Images, or 8x for Bird Watching in Forests

Every pair of binoculars will have a number attached to them, representing their magnifying scope. This signifies how many times the image has been magnified compared to the naked eye. Birdwatching binoculars will usually have anywhere between 7-12 levels of magnification, with the most common being either 8 x or 10 x. 


10 x magnification will give you a more zoomed-in image. However, you'll also notice more hand-shake, and your field of view will be lessened. This will also result in a slightly darker image in low-light conditions.


If you're in woodland or forest, then 8 x will be the preferred level of magnification. These binoculars will let in more light, allowing for a brighter and sharper image, making it easier to scope out your target. 

Beginners Should Consider a Large Objective Lens of 42 mm to Make Sighting Targets Easier

The objective lens is the lens furthest from your eye and closest to the object you're trying to see. It is measured by the diameter of each lens. Birdwatching binoculars will have 20 - 50mm of objective lens diameter. The larger the number, the more light that will be projected onto the eyepiece lens, making the image appear brighter and clearer. 


Two of the most readily available and popular sizes are 32mm (mid-size binoculars) and 42mm (full-size) binoculars. It's recommended that beginners seek out a larger objective lens size to make sighting your target easier. But depending on the type of binocular you're after, this may also mean paying more for the privilege.  

If You Want to Scan Wider Areas, Go For Binoculars With a Large Field of View of Around 120 or Above

The field of view (FOV) is the calculated width encompassed by the binoculars at a specific distance. This is measured in either feet or meters, from a distance of 1,000 yards.


Most birdwatching binoculars will have a FOV of 80m - 150m / 1000. However, the field of view measurements can be vast. So when starting out, you'll want to look for the largest field of view possible. This will make it easier to scan larger areas before honing in on a bird. 

3

To Enable Bird Watching in Any Weather, Make Sure You Pick a Pair of Water-Resistant Binoculars

To Enable Bird Watching in Any Weather, Make Sure You Pick a Pair of Water-Resistant Binoculars

As water is in abundance within these geographically scorned isles, understanding the level to which a pair of birdwatching binoculars will hold up against the elements is always a clever idea. While most roof prism binoculars will have an increased level of water resistance, it's always worth checking as some models are more waterproof than others. 


When reading the finer print, be sure to look out for terms like 'daily waterproof' and 'water-resistant'. These terms refer to rain resistance more than actual waterproofing. Beware of brands that unequivocally boast about their binoculars handling down to depths of 1-5m. This may be impressive, but it makes one wonder how many birds you'll find down there?


Make sure you're equipped with a quality raincoat to keep you dry! 

4

For Something Light and Easily Portable, Buy a Pair That Weigh Around 200 g

For Something Light and Easily Portable, Buy a Pair That Weigh Around 200 g

Binoculars will either be around your neck, in your hand or tucked inside your bag. Therefore, your entire birdwatching experience will be directly affected by the weight of your binoculars. These days you can find birdwatching binoculars that weigh as little as 200g, as well as heftier pairs weighing in at 1kg or more. 


A couple of factors are to be considered when faced with the weight debate. Porro prism binoculars will always be heavier than roof prism binoculars, which is why many dedicated birders have started opting for roof prism.


Pocket-sized binoculars will be the lightest of the bunch, but the result will be smaller objective lenses and a reduced FOV. The price will also play a big part in the weight of a pair of binoculars, resulting in the quest to find a balance between weight and price yours to make alone. 


Make sure you've got some sturdy hiking boots for those long treks searching for wildlife!

Was the Buying Guide helpful?

10 Best Birdwatching Binoculars in the UK

mybest UK product recommendations are reviewed and curated by our writers in-house. We focus on in-depth research and analysis of product reviews to carefully select the best products available for the best prices.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Key features
1

Nikon

Prostaff 8 x 42 Binoculars3S

Nikon Prostaff 8 x 42 Binoculars 1

A Great Pair With a Large FOV, a 42 mm Objective Lens and 8 x Magnification

2

Bushnell

8 x 42 mm All Purpose Binocular H20

Bushnell 8 x 42 mm All Purpose Binocular  1

Sturdy and Robust High-Impact Binoculars With Super-Grip Technology

3

Gosky

10 x 42 Binoculars for Bird Watching

Gosky 10 x 42 Binoculars for Bird Watching 1

A Full-Sized Pair of Roof Prisms With 10 x Magnification at a Reasonable Price

4

Slokey

Binoculars for Adults - Professional and Powerful Binoculars

Slokey Binoculars for Adults - Professional and Powerful Binoculars 1

High Functioning Compact Binoculars With 42 mm Objective Lenses, Specifically for Birdwatching

5

Nikon

Aculon 10 x 25 BinocularsA30

Nikon Aculon 10 x 25 Binoculars 1

Pocket-Sized, High-Quality Binoculars With a Multi-Layer Coating for the Avid Birder

6

Olympus

8 x 40 BinocularsDPS - 1

Olympus 8 x 40 Binoculars 1

A Quality Mid-Range Pair With a Large Field of View, Great for Beginners

7

Mahauk

Compact Binoculars With Auto Focus Lens

Mahauk Compact Binoculars With Auto Focus Lens  1

A Compact Pair of Auto-Focusing Porro Prism Binoculars, Perfect for First-Timers

8

Brigenius

Premium Pocket Binoculars for Bird Watching

Brigenius Premium Pocket Binoculars for Bird Watching 1

Pocket Sized at Only 172 g and Well-Priced With an 8 x Magnification for Short Distance Birding

9

Kylietech

High Power Binoculars for Birdwatching

Kylietech High Power Binoculars for Birdwatching 1

High-Powered Binoculars for Long Distance Bird Watching in the Mountains

10

Stream

Compact Binoculars for Adults

Stream Compact Binoculars for Adults 1

Large Pair of Binoculars With a 42 mm Objective Lens and 10 x Magnification

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

Nikon
Prostaff 8 x 42 Binoculars3S

Prostaff 8 x 42 Binoculars 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£133.99
High
Reference price
£133.99
High

A Great Pair With a Large FOV, a 42 mm Objective Lens and 8 x Magnification

Simply put, these are a masterpiece of binocular design. With a large 126 m field of view, and a 42mm objective lens, you'll be in awe of all the incredibly clear and in-focus wildlife soon to be discovered. They are 100% waterproof up to 1m, which is more than adequate for use in the UK. And with 8x magnification, they're ideal for all kinds of birding adventures, whether in woodlands or forests. 


Best of all, at just over 500 g in weight, these roof prism beauties from Nikon won't drag you down. So if you don't mind spending a little more, you'll undoubtedly get what you pay for!

Was this Ranking helpful?
No.2

Bushnell
8 x 42 mm All Purpose Binocular H20

8 x 42 mm All Purpose Binocular  1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£108.60
High Mid
Reference price
£108.60
High Mid

Sturdy and Robust High-Impact Binoculars With Super-Grip Technology

Bushnell has designed a very durable pair of all-purpose binoculars. They are 100% waterproof, shockproof and the non-slip rubber matting gives extra grip and protection against impact.


They are the ideal pair of binoculars for use in wet conditions and around water due to their durability and incredible ability to hold up against the elements. This has resulted in many happy users worldwide, and with an 8 x magnification and 42 mm objective lens, they certainly hit the sweet spot for most birding endeavours. 

No.3

Gosky
10 x 42 Binoculars for Bird Watching

10 x 42 Binoculars for Bird Watching 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£75.99
High Mid
Reference price
£75.99
High Mid

A Full-Sized Pair of Roof Prisms With 10 x Magnification at a Reasonable Price

Gosky have a serious contender for the best pair of birdwatching binoculars under £100 with these beauties! At 10x magnification and with a 42mm objective lens, they are undoubtedly high-powered, full-sized and ready for birding business.


They have a respectable 100m field of view, allowing for a decent amount of tracking. Their roof prism design is robust, and the rubber shell gives a good amount of shock-proofing. And they come with all the right accessories, including a quality neck strap, which at 700g you will certainly need.

No.4

Slokey
Binoculars for Adults - Professional and Powerful Binoculars

Binoculars for Adults - Professional and Powerful Binoculars 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£59.97
Mid
Reference price
£59.97
Mid

High Functioning Compact Binoculars With 42 mm Objective Lenses, Specifically for Birdwatching

These binoculars from Slokey are a good mid-way point between functionality and price. Their 42mm objective lenses will allow the maximum amount of light in, and with 10 x magnification, birds will seem like they're practically pecking on the lens! 


They come with a carry-case, smartphone adapter and neck strap, making for an all-inclusive package to hit the ground running with. At 530g, they are reasonably weighted for a full-sized pair of binoculars, which can be attributed to their compact roof prism design. 

No.5

Nikon
Aculon 10 x 25 BinocularsA30

Reference price
£64.00
Mid

Pocket-Sized, High-Quality Binoculars With a Multi-Layer Coating for the Avid Birder

Nikon is a stronghold of all things optic. Their name is synonymous with well-made, high-quality products, and the pocket-sized A30 is no exception! These are a good pair of compact roof prism binoculars for established birdwatchers who don't want to spend a fortune.


At 25mm, their objective lenses won't be letting in copious amounts of light. But Nikon being Nikon, they have counteracted this by including a multi-layer coating for additional brightness

No.6

Olympus
8 x 40 BinocularsDPS - 1

Reference price
£70.63
Mid

A Quality Mid-Range Pair With a Large Field of View, Great for Beginners

These binoculars will be an easy pair to start you on your birding journey. That's because their large field of view allows for easy viewing while tracking and keeping up with birds.


They're a Porro prism pair with an objective lens of 40 mm and a weight of 710g. This bulk means it will feel like a commitment to keep them around your neck for long periods. However, weight aside, there's no denying Olympus have done their job with this quality pair of binoculars. 

No.7

Mahauk
Compact Binoculars With Auto Focus Lens

Compact Binoculars With Auto Focus Lens  1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£39.99
Low Mid
Reference price
£39.99
Low Mid

A Compact Pair of Auto-Focusing Porro Prism Binoculars, Perfect for First-Timers

Here is another compact pair of binoculars, but this time they're Porro prisms. A unique feature of this pair is that they are auto-focusing, making them ideal for first-time birdwatchers who don't want the added stress of having to focus the lenses manually.


At 235 g, you'll barely feel them hung around your neck while out birding. They also come with a carry case and strap, so you'll be ready to start scouting birds from the offset. Unfortunately, Mahauk hasn't been forthcoming with their FOV, so we can't comment on that aspect.

No.8

Brigenius
Premium Pocket Binoculars for Bird Watching

Premium Pocket Binoculars for Bird Watching 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£27.99
Low Mid
Reference price
£27.99
Low Mid

Pocket Sized at Only 172 g and Well-Priced With an 8 x Magnification for Short Distance Birding

Here's a pocket-sized pair of roof prism binoculars, weighing in at a minuscule 172 g. This makes them the perfect addition to any coat pocket for casual bird watching while enjoying walks around your local area. 


They have small objective lenses and  8 x magnification, making them great for short distance birding. They aren't waterproof though, so a dry bag could be a wise decision when taking these compact binoculars out on a walk. 

No.9

Kylietech
High Power Binoculars for Birdwatching

High Power Binoculars for Birdwatching 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£34.99
Low Mid
Reference price
£34.99
Low Mid

High-Powered Binoculars for Long Distance Bird Watching in the Mountains

These binoculars are very high power at 12 x magnification. This is the highest recommended magnification level for birdwatching, making them great for long-distance birding but terrible for forests and woodlands. You'll also want a pretty steady hand when using them! 


They come with multiple accessories, including a carry bag, smartphone adapter, neck strap and a cleaning cloth. Although this may seem like a good deal at first glance, you can expect only an entry-level pair of binoculars at such a low price.

No.10

Stream
Compact Binoculars for Adults

Compact Binoculars for Adults 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Compact Binoculars for Adults 2
Source:amazon.co.uk
Compact Binoculars for Adults 3
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£25.99
Low Mid
Reference price
£25.99
Low Mid

Large Pair of Binoculars With a 42 mm Objective Lens and 10 x Magnification

Everything about these binoculars is large! They have a 42 mm objective lens allowing for ample light and a staggering 138m FOV. At 10 x magnification, they are good for spotting birds in the distance, but you'll have to be wary of hand-shake. 


Unfortunately, as they are a Porro prism design, these binoculars are quite big and bulky at 720 g. So not the ideal binoculars for carrying around all day, especially if the kids want to use them. 

Written and researched by Connor Macanally

Top 5 Birdwatching Binoculars

No. 1: NikonProstaff 8 x 42 Binoculars3S

No. 2: Bushnell8 x 42 mm All Purpose Binocular H20

No. 3: Gosky10 x 42 Binoculars for Bird Watching

No. 4: SlokeyBinoculars for Adults - Professional and Powerful Binoculars

No. 5: NikonAculon 10 x 25 BinocularsA30

View Full Ranking
The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.

Most Viewed
Featured Rankings Similar to Accessories

Bike Cargo Trailers

10 Best

New Arrivals
Featured Rankings Similar to Accessories

Search by category

mybest

We connect users with the best tried and true products,
tested by our in-house guides and backed by expert insight.

Copyright mybest All Rights Reserved.