Do you want binoculars that are powerful yet portable? If so, 8×32 binoculars are perfect for you. They give you great magnification and let in plenty of light for image sharpness while also being easy to carry. The difficulty is to know which model to get, as there are many great options out there. That’s where we wanted to help with our research to give you all the information you need.
What makes the best 8×32 binoculars? Well, apart from main parameters like the objective lens diameter and magnification, it’s crucial to look at eye relief and field of view along with key specifications of length and weight. The latter will ensure that they match your requirements when it comes to scanning the area and carrying it with you for hours. On top of that, we’ll also consider their prices and what accessories they come with. By the end, you should know which model is the best 8×32 binoculars for you. Let’s get started!
More features: ArmorTek housing, HD optical system, shockproof, argon gas purged, fully multi-coated lenses
Our experts say that these are the best 8×32 binoculars available today. They have an excellent range of qualities in many different situations. One of those great features is the long eye relief of 16mm, which helps to make them very easy to use.
The Vortex Diamondback 8×32 binoculars are also fairly lightweight with quality optics throughout. These binoculars are also good for challenging environments due to their ArmorTek housing that gives them exceptional durability. On top of that, the multi-coated optics are going to give excellent image clarity, even at long ranges.
What we liked: The optics on these binoculars are phenomenal, and you’ll be very impressed with them. Along with the high-quality image, you’ll also like that they are easy to use. Their build quality is backed up by a long warranty, which all adds up to fantastic value for money, and makes them the best 8×32 binoculars under $300.
What could be better: The low light performance of these binoculars isn’t bad, but it’s not quite at the level of some of its rivals.
More features: BaK-4 prisms, 6.5’ close focus, polycarbonate frame, comes with neck strap, objective lens caps, rainguard, carrying case, lens cloth
Celestron makes many great binoculars, and this is another great example. They have long eye relief and a field of view of 388 feet over 1,000 yards. At 18oz, its weight is fairly standard for these types of binoculars.
You get a wide range of accessories here. This includes the caps, strap, case, rain guard, and cloth, so you don’t need to worry about buying them separately. Importantly, their all-around performance is also great, which makes them another great option.
What we liked: The build quality of these binoculars is exceptional. They are going to last a very long time and you can use them anywhere. Also, we found them very easy to grip, and they are comfortable for a full day of use.
What could be better: While these binoculars are mostly easy to use, the dials can feel a little stiff. It can make adjustments a bit difficult at times, but it’s not a huge issue.
More features: rubberized armor, nitrogen purged body and O-ring sealed, thumb grooves, excellent texturing
If you want a pair of binoculars that are going to stand the test of time, then this is going to be a great option. Along with the high-quality components, they have rubberized armor that can handle a lot of punishment.
Apart from being durable, they are also great to gold with their textured surface and thumb grooves. This makes them an excellent pick for difficult weather conditions. When you add this to the impressive specifications, it makes them a brilliant option for any user.
What we liked: We mentioned that the quality of construction was high, but the optics are also very good. They’ll give you a bright and clear image that can be controlled via simple adjustments. On top of that, this is all backed by a long warranty.
What could be better: The binoculars come without lens covers, which may be annoying for some. Thankfully, the design of them should help to prevent any scratches.
More features: fast focusing, waterproof casing, LotuTec lens coating, 88% light transmission
These binoculars look great, and the performance is also fantastic. They are one of the models on this list that have a field of view of over 400 feet at 1000 yards. Additionally, fast focusing makes them perfect for scanning a landscape.
They let in plenty of light, so you won’t need to worry about their dawn and dusk performance. The coatings are also going to ensure a sharp image. When you combine these qualities with the waterproof casings, you have binoculars you can use anywhere.
What we liked: The first thing you’ll notice with these binoculars is that they have a good hand feel, which allows you to hold them for extended periods. The optics are great, and they are also very easy to use with smooth adjustments and long eye relief.
What could be better: There is a lack of accessories with these binoculars. That may not be an issue for some, but you may need to buy them elsewhere.
More features: focus free, fully-coated optics, black rubber armor, fold-down eyecups
The Tasco TAS100832-BRK is a focus free set of binoculars that means you don’t need to waste time trying to manipulate a focus wheel. This is the smallest model in the Tasco line, but it still has 8×32 magnification. These binoculars have been designed for use on the go, with its slim form factor that still provides a generous field of view and great light gathering performance you would expect from full sized optics. The optics are fully coated to be anti-reflection, while the eyecups seal against the eye socket to block peripheral light and glare.
The body of the Tasco TAS100832-BRK features rubber armor that protects against impact and provides a slip resistant grip. There are also textured palm pads that help to improve stability and grip strength.
More features: rubber armored, Leica AquaDura HDC coating, high light transmission, ensures steady grip
For many 8×32 binoculars, you’ll want to have a high level of durability. You want to place them in your bag without worrying that a bump or drop is going to break them.
These LEICA 8×32 binoculars excel in that respect with their durable rubber armor that will cope with anything you can throw at them. They also have plenty of amazing specifications with a good field of view, high light transmission, and long eye relief.
What we liked: The balance on these binoculars is terrific and is great for a whole day of use. Along with that durability, they are also able to deliver a bright image with sharp detail. That adds up to an immense level of versatility, and you’ll use these time and time again.
What could be better: They are quite expensive, which may be an issue for some. If you do have the budget, then we’d say they were worth the price.
More features: up to 90% light transmission, comes with cleaning cloth, carrying case, protective lens caps, warranty card, eyepiece cap, and strap
One of the downsides to 8×32 binoculars is that the objective lens doesn’t let in as much light as you may need. Binoculars can get around that a little by having multi-coated lenses and the highest quality prisms.
These binoculars are a great example as they can capture up to 90% of the natural light. It leads to unmatched results, and you get a model that works well in all conditions. They also come with a wide range of accessories, including a good carrying case.
What we liked: The field of view is one of the best features of these binoculars. It’s brilliant and allows you to scan any landscape quickly. That’s helped by being easy to adjust while also being comfortable for a full day of use. They are probably the best 8×32 binoculars for under $1000.
What could be better: While most of the accessories are great, that can’t really be said of the objective covers. They don’t fit very well and can be easily lost.
More features: fully multi-coated lenses, BAK-4 prisms, waterproof and fog proof, 2-step twist-up eyecups, large center-focus knob
Bushnell makes a wide range of brilliant binoculars, and these are no different. They have a decent eye relief of 16.5mm while also having a good field of view. On top of that, they are one of the lightest options around.
The Bushnell 8×32 binoculars have all the features you’ll want to see, such as multi-coated lenses, high-quality prisms, and excellent weatherproofing. Additionally, they are also very easy to travel with, considering that they have twist-up eyecups and a fairly compact design.
What we liked: The clarity during the daytime is outstanding on these binoculars. Portability is also exceptional, and you won’t have to worry about them breaking too easily. As a result, you get a very versatile model that also doesn’t cost much.
What could be better: Some 32mm binoculars can struggle a little in low light, and that’s the case here. They aren’t terrible but not too great either.
More features: Japanese ED glass, adjustable 3 stage twist-out eyecups, phase coating, fog proof and waterproof, lifetime warranty
A few models on this list can offer a lifetime warranty, and this one is an excellent example here. It shows the level of confidence the company has with its product, and that is backed up here by the terrific durability.
This is a fairly compact model and is very easy to carry on a wide range of different adventures. There is quality throughout these binoculars, and that includes the coatings and glass used. Also, they have very good performance in poor weather.
What we liked: The binoculars have a very solid feel, and you’ll enjoy being able to use them. They capture quite a lot of light, even at dusk. Imagining here is razor-sharp, and you won’t be disappointed.
What could be better: While these aren’t the heaviest binoculars on this list, they do feel quite heavy. We’d put that down to them not quite being as well balanced as others.
More features: multi-coated lenses, twist-up eyecups, rubber armor, comes with a lens cloth, lens cover, pouch, and strap
These may be the last binoculars on our list, but they still have some fantastic qualities. As such, they have multi-coated lenses for the maximum level of light transmission and contain superior quality prisms to give you a very bright image.
The eye relief is quite long here at 17.5mm, and the field of view is wide as you get 420 feet at 1,000 yards. They are fairly compact in design, and that’s aided by them having twist-up eyecups. Also, you get the full range of accessories here.
What we liked: The weatherproofing on these binoculars is terrific as you’ll be able to use them in any situation, and this makes them one of the best 8×32 binoculars for birding. The optics are very good, while they are also easy to handle. Thus, these qualities help to give them excellent versatility.
What could be better: While we appreciated that they came with all the accessories you need, they aren’t of the highest quality, which is a little annoying.
More features: ergonomic design comes with field bag, eyepiece cover, objective lens cover, carrying strap, lifetime limited warranty for optics and 10 years for other parts
These binoculars are another model that looks great. They feel great while having many impressive specs like a wide field of view of 423 feet at 1,000 yards. Thus, they are great for viewing landscapes and allow you to scan easily.
You get a wide range of accessories here, including covers, a strap, and a bag. When you add that to the marvelous binoculars, it makes a great package. There is also a lifetime warranty on the optics, which shows the confidence the company has in their product.
What we liked: We only chose binoculars for this list, which have high clarity, and these are no different. As if it’s not enough, the Swarovski binoculars 8×32 also work very well in lower light and can focus easily at close range. On top of that, they are also easy to use.
What could be better: While they do come with a good range of accessories, those aren’t of the highest quality. You may want to upgrade them after a short time.
Before rushing with your decision, it’s important to know what to look for in a great pair of binoculars. That’s why we’ve come up with this buying guide to give you all the information you need to make an informed choice. We’ll go through all of the key features and see how they relate to your needs.
Many see 8×32 binoculars as having the perfect mixture of specifications. They offer a good level of magnification while also letting in plenty of light for better image quality. Also, those specifications mean that they usually have a wide field of view.
Having an 8x magnification is useful for a wide range of activities. With higher parameters than that, it can be hard to focus and get a stable image. It’s powerful enough for most uses, including sports, birding, backpacking, and stargazing.
A large objective diameter can make binoculars bulky and heavy. 32mm is a great figure as it lets in enough light but also keeps the weight down. You’ll easily be able to pack them away in a bag for whichever adventure you want.
The 8×32 combination makes binoculars brilliant for anyone that wants highly portable binoculars that still have a high level of power. Any smaller model wouldn’t be suitable for many activities. With larger options, portability becomes an issue.
In this section, we’ll learn which features are the most important for you. Is durability vital? Are you going to be using them next to water? Do you need the excellent low light performance? These types of questions you should ask yourself depending on what type of activity you need them for.
All high-quality binoculars rely on great optics. A large part of this comes down to the quality of the glass used and the coating on the optics. For instance, multi-coated optics such as on the Sightron SII reduce the loss of light due to reflection and ensures the highest levels of light transmission.
As the light passes through each piece of glass, a percentage of light will be reflected back and lost. Too much of this loss will lead to a dull and blurry image. These coatings are vital in being able to see large distances and can be the difference between poor binoculars and the most expensive models.
The eye relief determines how far your eye can be from the lens while still being able to see the full picture. For non-eyeglass wearers, this is rarely going to be much of an issue as your eye is always going to be fairly close to the lens.
If you do wear glasses, eye relief becomes a lot more important. It’s usually accepted that you need at least 14mm of eye relief to see properly through binoculars while wearing glasses. In that respect, the 20mm that we see on the Swarovski Optik EL is more than enough for comfortable viewing.
The exit pupil affects the amount of light that enters your eye. Usually, in good light conditions, your pupil won’t open up any more than 4mm, so an exit pupil larger than that would be useless. In lower light, however, your eye can open up to around 7mm.
The exit pupil of binoculars can be found by dividing the objective lens size (32mm) by the magnification (8x), which is why all of the binoculars in this list have an exit pupil of 4mm.
Perhaps the biggest downside to high magnification is that it limits your field of view. With anything above 10x magnification, it can be very hard to pick out distant objects without having a very steady hand. For high magnification, you usually need the help of a tripod.
With 8x magnification, you usually get a very wide field of view, which makes them excellent for scanning the landscape. As all of these models are 8x, they all have a similar field of view, but there are some differences. The 426 feet at 1,000 yards of the Vortex Optics Diamondback is particularly outstanding.
One of the biggest advantages of 8×32 binoculars is that they are usually light and portable. Even the bulkiest options can be easily taken on a backpacking trip.
For the ultimate in portability, you can’t go wrong with the Bushnell Trophy binoculars at just 15.5oz. Not only are they light, but they are also highly affordable. It makes them a great option for throwing them into your backpack to use whenever you need them.
We made sure to include models that only have a good level of durability and can stand up to a good level of punishment. This involves having a solid construction and being well enough design so that a simple drop won’t break them.
The Carson 3D binoculars are an example of ones that are highly durable with their rubber armor. Not only does that armor absorb impacts, but it also makes it easy to grip. This allows you to have confidence when holding them and also reassurance that if you do drop them, they’ll be okay.
Another important part of the longevity of binoculars is their water and fog resistance.
High-quality binoculars should never fog up. This is because the natural air inside them should be replaced with nitrogen. Thus, this removes any water vapor and lowers the chance of condensation.
The level of waterproofing is less obvious as this can change hugely from one model to the next. The Zeiss Terra ED is an example of a model with a particularly good waterproof rating. If you’re ever going to be close to the water, then ensure you’re getting binoculars with a good rating.
You’ll most likely need some extra accessories with your binoculars. This includes covers for all of your lenses, a strap to keep them safely attaches to you, a carrying case, and a cloth to wipe down your lenses should they get dirty.
Some companies offer none of these, while others offer all of them, but they’re low quality. A great example of a model that has high-quality accessories is the Celestron Nature DX, so you won’t need to worry about buying anything else. You can head straight out there and start exploring.
If you want a premium option, the Swarovski EL binoculars would be a great option at a little under $2,000. At around $1,000, you get many top-end binoculars, such as the LEICA Trinovid.
For those searching for well-made binoculars at a reasonable price, the Vortex Optics Diamondback is a great option at around $250. Still too much money for you? If so, the Celestron Nature DX performs very well despite having a price tag of around $100.
Our favorite model is the Vortex Optics Diamondback HD. We think they offer the best balance between having exceptional quality while also having an affordable price tag.
For the most comfortable grip, the Celestron Nature DX would be a great option that is also ideal for a wide range of different activities.
If you need a durable product that can withstand the rigors of the wild, however, then we’d recommend the Carson 3D, which comes with rubberized armor.
While we highlighted these three, the other seven are also fantastic in their own way. It’s important to know what activities you need your binoculars for and then get a model to match that. Once you do, then you’ll find the best 8×32 binoculars and enjoy all the advantages that come with them.