The Best Binoculars, Telescopes & Optics 2024

Updated On April 6th, 2024

Looking for the best Binoculars, Telescopes & Optics? You aren't short of choices in 2022. The difficult bit is deciding the best Binoculars, Telescopes & Optics for you, but luckily that's where we can help. Based on testing out in the field with reviews, sells etc, we've created this ranked list of the finest Binoculars, Telescopes & Optics.

Rank Product Name Score
1
Nikon - ACULON 12 x 50 Binoculars - Black

Nikon - ACULON 12 x 50 Binoculars - Black

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96%
2
Celestron - EclipsSmart 3-Piece Solar Eclipse Observing and Imaging Kit - Blue/Black

Celestron - EclipsSmart 3-Piece Solar Eclipse Observing and Imaging Kit - Blue/Black

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94%
3
Nikon - ACULON A211 8x42 Binoculars - Black

Nikon - ACULON A211 8x42 Binoculars - Black

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92%
4
Nikon - ACULON A30 10x25 Binoculars - Black

Nikon - ACULON A30 10x25 Binoculars - Black

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92%
5
Celestron - EclipSmart 2x Power Viewers Solar Eclipse Observing Kit - Blue/Black

Celestron - EclipSmart 2x Power Viewers Solar Eclipse Observing Kit - Blue/Black

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92%
6
Celestron - EclipSmart 10x25 Roof Solar Binoculars - Black

Celestron - EclipSmart 10x25 Roof Solar Binoculars - Black

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84%
7
Celestron - EclipSmart 10x42 Porro Solar Binoculars - Black

Celestron - EclipSmart 10x42 Porro Solar Binoculars - Black

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82%
8
Rexing - B1 10 x 25 Digital Night Vision Binoculars, Infrared (IR) Digital Camera - Black

Rexing - B1 10 x 25 Digital Night Vision Binoculars, Infrared (IR) Digital Camera - Black

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82%
9
Celestron - Eclipsmart Travel Solar Scope 50 Refractor Telescope - White/black

Celestron - Eclipsmart Travel Solar Scope 50 Refractor Telescope - White/black

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80%
10
Barska - GLADIATOR 30 x 50 Binoculars - Black

Barska - GLADIATOR 30 x 50 Binoculars - Black

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70%

1. Nikon - ACULON 12 x 50 Binoculars - Black

Nikon - ACULON 12 x 50 Binoculars - Black
96%

Our Score

Eco-Glass lenses; 10x magnification; multicoated lens; roof prisms; rubber armored barrels; dual-hinged, foldable design; compact size

Get closer to the action during your outdoor exploits with these Nikon ACULON full-size binoculars. A lightweight ergonomic design ensures easy handling and comfortable all-day carrying, while the rubber coating withstands heavy use in all weather conditions for added durability. These Nikon ACULON full-size binoculars have an advanced optical system that delivers high-quality images in a variety of lighting conditions.

2. Celestron - EclipsSmart 3-Piece Solar Eclipse Observing and Imaging Kit - Blue/Black

Celestron - EclipsSmart 3-Piece Solar Eclipse Observing and Imaging Kit - Blue/Black
94%

Our Score

Eco-Glass lenses; 10x magnification; multicoated lens; roof prisms; rubber armored barrels; dual-hinged, foldable design; compact size

The Celestron EclipSmart 3-Piece Solar Eclipse Observing, and Imaging Kit is a must-have to view and photograph partial and total solar eclipses—like the upcoming 2023 Annular Solar Eclipse and 2024 Total Solar Eclipse. Affordable, easy to use, and best of all, Solar Safe, the Celestron EclipSmart 3-Piece Kit features solar film that conforms to the current ISO standard. With this kit, you’ll be totally prepared for eclipse day. You receive one pair of premium, durable plastic eclipse glasses with wraparound-style arms for a comfortable fit. The glasses are equipped with sturdy plastic lenses with Solar Safe film on the inside. The handy photo filter will help you capture images and video of the Sun with your smartphone or camera. Simply place the filter over your camera lens, and its delicate imaging sensor is protected. It works with phones, camcorders, action cams, point-and-shoot cameras, and DSLRs. Only remove the filter when the camera is no longer pointing at the Sun. Finally, this kit includes a 32-page booklet packed with helpful information, including observing tips, a detailed eclipse map, and a city-by-city timetable. Solar Safe Technology - EclipSmart solar products feature Solar Safe filter technology—the ultimate protection from harmful solar radiation—including IR and UV light—plus 99.999% of visible light. Celestron Solar Safe filter technology is SAFE for direct observation of the Sun and has been independently tested to conform to and meet the transmission requirements of ISO 2312-2:2015(E), Filters for Direct Observation of the Sun, EN 1836:2005 + A1:2007 (E) for an E15 Filter for the Direct Observation of the Sun and AS/NZS 1338.1:2012, Filters for Eye protectors. Important safety note: inspect your glasses and photo filter before every use. Do not use and discard if the solar film is damaged, torn, punctured, or separated from the frame in any way. Do not use the glasses or photo filter in combination with any magnifying optical device (i.e., telescopes, binoculars). Upcoming Eclipses: 2023 - On October 14, 2023, the famed “Ring of Fire” will encircle a darkened Moon during a spectacular annular eclipse. This special type of partial solar eclipse occurs when the Moon is too far from Earth to cover the Sun completely. The Sun’s corona is not visible during an annular eclipse. 2024 - On April 8, 2024, the Moon will completely cover the Sun during an awe-inspiring Total Solar Eclipse. Observers within the path of totality will witness the Sun’s dazzling corona, observe the “diamond ring” effect, and see day turn to night.

3. Nikon - ACULON A211 8x42 Binoculars - Black

Nikon - ACULON A211 8x42 Binoculars - Black
92%

Our Score

Eco-Glass lenses; 8x magnification; aspherical multicoated lenses with BaK4 Porro prisms; rubber armor coating; lightweight design; tripod mountable with optional adapter (not included)

Enjoy nature from afar with these Nikon ACULON A211 binoculars, which provide 8x magnification and aspherical Eco-Glass multicoated lenses with BaK4 Porro prisms for bright, clear images in most lighting conditions.

4. Nikon - ACULON A30 10x25 Binoculars - Black

Nikon - ACULON A30 10x25 Binoculars - Black
92%

Our Score

Eco-Glass lenses; 10x magnification; multicoated lens; roof prisms; rubber armored barrels; dual-hinged, foldable design; compact size

Enjoy a clear view from afar with these Nikon ACULON A30 binoculars, which feature Eco-Glass multicoated lenses with roof prisms for enhanced brightness and picture clarity. The dual-hinged, foldable design fits in your pocket or bag.

5. Celestron - EclipSmart 2x Power Viewers Solar Eclipse Observing Kit - Blue/Black

Celestron - EclipSmart 2x Power Viewers Solar Eclipse Observing Kit - Blue/Black
92%

Our Score

Eco-Glass lenses; 10x magnification; multicoated lens; roof prisms; rubber armored barrels; dual-hinged, foldable design; compact size

The Celestron EclipSmart 2x Power Viewers Solar Eclipse Observing Kit will provide excellent views of solar eclipses for you and a friend—at 2X magnification! These viewers go beyond traditional eclipse glasses with an extra boost in magnification to help you see sunspots and other details on the surface of the Sun.Power Viewers fold flat when not in use and expand into a 3-D mini binocular when you’re ready to view. Plus, Power Viewers are equipped with sturdy plastic lenses that boost your magnification. These Celestron EclipSmart 2x Solar Power Viewers are affordable and easy to use—with Solar Safe filter technology that conforms to the current ISO standard. This kit makes observing partial and total solar eclipses like the upcoming 2023 Annular Solar Eclipse and 2024 Total Solar Eclipse easy. You’ll receive two power viewers and a beautiful eclipse poster packed with helpful information, a city-by-city eclipse timetable, and a detailed map of the eclipse’s path. Solar Safe Technology: EclipSmart solar products feature Solar Safe filter technology—the ultimate protection from harmful solar radiation—including IR and UV light—plus 99.999% of visible light. Celestron Solar Safe filter technology is SAFE for direct observation of the Sun and has been independently tested to conform to and meet the transmission requirements of ISO 2312-2:2015(E), Filters for Direct Observation of the Sun, EN 1836:2005 + A1:2007 (E) for an E15 Filter for the Direct Observation of the Sun and AS/NZS 1338.1:2012, Filters for Eye Protectors. Important safety note: inspect your 2x Power Viewers before every use. Do not use and discard if any part of the viewer or the solar film inside is damaged, torn, punctured, or separated from the frame in any way. Do not use these viewers in combination with any magnifying optical device (i.e., telescopes, binoculars). Upcoming Eclipses: 2023 - On October 14, 2023, the famed “Ring of Fire” will encircle a darkened Moon during a spectacular annular eclipse. This special type of partial solar eclipse occurs when the Moon is too far from Earth to cover the Sun completely. The Sun’s corona is not visible during an annular eclipse. 2024 - On April 8, 2024, the Moon will completely cover the Sun during an awe-inspiring Total Solar Eclipse. Observers within the path of totality will witness the Sun’s dazzling corona, observe the “diamond ring” effect, and see day turn to night.

6. Celestron - EclipSmart 10x25 Roof Solar Binoculars - Black

Celestron - EclipSmart 10x25 Roof Solar Binoculars - Black
84%

Our Score

Eco-Glass lenses; 10x magnification; multicoated lens; roof prisms; rubber armored barrels; dual-hinged, foldable design; compact size

The Celestron EclipSmart 10x25mm Solar Porro Binocular is one of the most convenient ways to enjoy safe, detailed, magnified views of the Sun anywhere. These full-size solar binoculars are the perfect grab-and-go option for eclipse chasers or for those studying sunspots any day. Best of all, Celestron EclipSmart binoculars feature Solar Safe filter technology, ensuring ultimate protection from harmful solar radiation. Unlike detachable filters, which can be knocked off unexpectedly, EclipSmart Solar Binoculars feature built-in filters embedded in the objective lenses. Enjoy the Sun with confidence, knowing it’s impossible for the filters to become dislodged while you or your loved ones are observing. Solar Safe Filter Technology: EclipSmart solar products feature Solar Safe filter technology—the ultimate protection from harmful solar radiation—including IR and UV light—plus 99.999% of visible light. Celestron Solar Safe filter technology is SAFE for direct observation of the Sun and has been independently tested to conform to and meet the transmission requirements of ISO 12312-2:2015(E), Filters for Direct Observation of the Sun. Important safety note: inspect your binocular’s objective lens filters before every use. Do not use and discard if damaged, scratched, or separated from the frame in any way. Crystal Clear View: With its multi-coated optics, the Celestron EclipSmart 10x25mm binoculars deliver high-contrast images of the Sun. These are white-light solar binoculars that provide a clear black-and-white image of the Sun. The Celestron EclipSmart 10x25mm Solar Binoculars also provide a generous field of view, so you can see the complete solar disk without moving the binocular. The Body: A durable, rubber-armored aluminum housing protects your EclipSmart binocular from damage without weighing you down. The binoculars are comfortable to use for eyeglass wearers and non-eyeglass wearers alike, thanks to their durable folding eyecups. Fold them down for safe and effective use with your eyeglasses or keep them unfolded if you don’t wear glasses. Accessories Included: Carry your EclipSmart binocular with the comfortable included strap. The binocular also includes a protective padded nylon case for storage and transport, and protective eyepiece and objective lens covers. Upcoming Eclipses: 2023 - On October 14, 2023, the famed “Ring of Fire” will encircle a darkened Moon during a spectacular annular eclipse. This phenomenon occurs when the Moon is too far from Earth to cover the Sun completely. The Sun's corona is not visible during an annular eclipse. 2024 - On April 8, 2024, the Moon will completely cover the Sun during an awe-inspiring Total Solar Eclipse. Observers within the path of totality will witness the sun’s dazzling corona, the “diamond ring” effect, and day turn to night.

7. Celestron - EclipSmart 10x42 Porro Solar Binoculars - Black

Celestron - EclipSmart 10x42 Porro Solar Binoculars - Black
82%

Our Score

Eco-Glass lenses; 10x magnification; multicoated lens; roof prisms; rubber armored barrels; dual-hinged, foldable design; compact size

The Celestron EclipSmart 10x42mm Solar Porro Binocular is one of the most convenient ways to enjoy safe, detailed, magnified views of the Sun anywhere. These full-size solar binoculars are the perfect grab-and-go option for eclipse chasers or for those studying sunspots any day. Best of all, Celestron EclipSmart binoculars feature Solar Safe filter technology, ensuring ultimate protection from harmful solar radiation. Unlike detachable filters, which can be knocked off unexpectedly, EclipSmart Solar Binoculars feature built-in filters embedded in the objective lenses. Enjoy the Sun with confidence, knowing it’s impossible for the filters to become dislodged while you or your loved ones are observing. Solar Safe Filter Technology: EclipSmart solar products feature Solar Safe filter technology—the ultimate protection from harmful solar radiation—including IR and UV light—plus 99.999% of visible light. Celestron Solar Safe filter technology is SAFE for direct observation of the Sun and has been independently tested to conform to and meet the transmission requirements of ISO 12312-2:2015(E), Filters for Direct Observation of the Sun. Important safety note: inspect your binocular’s objective lens filters before every use. Do not use and discard if damaged, scratched, or separated from the frame in any way. Crystal Clear View: With its multi-coated optics, the Celestron EclipSmart 10x42mm binoculars deliver high-contrast images of the Sun. These are white-light solar binoculars that provide a clear black-and-white image of the Sun. The Celestron EclipSmart 10x42mm Solar Binoculars also provide a generous field of view, so you can see the complete solar disk without moving the binocular. The Body: A durable, rubber-armored aluminum housing protects your EclipSmart binocular from damage without weighing you down. The binoculars are comfortable to use for eyeglass wearers and non-eyeglass wearers alike, thanks to their durable folding eyecups. Fold them down for safe and effective use with your eyeglasses or keep them unfolded if you don’t wear glasses. Accessories Included: Carry your EclipSmart binocular with the comfortable included strap. The binocular also includes a protective padded nylon case for storage and transport, and protective eyepiece and objective lens covers. Upcoming Eclipses: 2023 - On October 14, 2023, the famed “Ring of Fire” will encircle a darkened Moon during a spectacular annular eclipse. This phenomenon occurs when the Moon is too far from Earth to cover the Sun completely. The Sun's corona is not visible during an annular eclipse. 2024 - On April 8, 2024, the Moon will completely cover the Sun during an awe-inspiring Total Solar Eclipse. Observers within the path of totality will witness the sun’s dazzling corona, the “diamond ring” effect, and day turn to night.

8. Rexing - B1 10 x 25 Digital Night Vision Binoculars, Infrared (IR) Digital Camera - Black

Rexing - B1 10 x 25 Digital Night Vision Binoculars, Infrared (IR) Digital Camera - Black
82%

Our Score

Eco-Glass lenses; 10x magnification; multicoated lens; roof prisms; rubber armored barrels; dual-hinged, foldable design; compact size

Observe objects from afar with the Rexing night vision binoculars. The f/1.2 aperture offers a balance between focal clarity and light sensitivity with seven unique modes for fine-tuning visibility, while the 10x optical zoom and 4x digital zoom magnification let you spot targets from extreme distances. The Rexing night vision binoculars feature a 2.31-inch LCD screen for viewing captured shots and IP56 water resistance for use in wet conditions.

9. Celestron - Eclipsmart Travel Solar Scope 50 Refractor Telescope - White/black

Celestron - Eclipsmart Travel Solar Scope 50 Refractor Telescope - White/black
80%

Our Score

Eco-Glass lenses; 10x magnification; multicoated lens; roof prisms; rubber armored barrels; dual-hinged, foldable design; compact size

Celestron’s EclipSmart Travel Solar Scope 50 is a dedicated white-light solar telescope for the observer on the go. It’s lightweight, compact, and easy to transport—perfect for viewing the solar photosphere and sunspots. At the heart of this 50mm refractor-style solar scope, you’ll find Celestron’s Solar Safe, full-aperture glass filter material, which ensures safe views of eclipses, transits, sunspots, and any other solar event. The EclipSmart telescope features a dual-lens, non-removable glass solar filter that conforms to the ISO 12312-2:2015(E) standard. The EclipSmart Travel Solar Scope 50 offers much higher magnifications for viewing sunspots or planetary transits than you would get using solar eclipse glasses or binoculars. The telescope comes complete with everything you need and makes it easy to share the Sun as well as partial and total solar eclipses with the whole family. Solar Safe Technology EclipSmart solar products feature Solar Safe filter technology—the ultimate protection from harmful solar radiation, including IR and UV light, plus 99.999% of visible light. Celestron Solar Safe filter technology is safe for direct observation of the Sun. Solar Safe products conform to and meet the transmission requirements of ISO 12312-2:2015(E), Filters for Direct Observation of the Sun, EN 1836:2005 + A1:2007 (E) for an E15 Filter for the Direct Observation of the Sun and AS/NZS 1338.1:2012, Filters for Eye Protectors. Important safety note: inspect your filter before every use. Do not use and discard if damaged, scratched, or separated from the frame in any way. Manual Alt-Azimuth telescope Navigate the sky with a pan handle Alt-Az control with clutch for smooth and accurate pointing. Move the clutch in an up/down, left/right fashion to track the Sun in the eyepiece as it appears to drift across the daytime sky. Accessories Included The EclipSmart Travel Solar Scope 50 comes with one eyepiece (20mm), a hybrid star diagonal for a more comfortable viewing angle, a permanently attached solar finderscope, and a travel backpack. Solar Finderscope – The EclipSmart telescope comes with a safe solar finderscope that allows you to align your telescope without looking directly at the Sun. The finderscope comes pre-installed and ready for use. Simply center the projection arm’s shadow on the bull’s eye, and the Sun will be positioned within the field of view of your telescope’s eyepiece. Travel Backpack – A custom backpack comes with your telescope so you can store your optical tube, tripod, eyepieces, and accessories. Traveling with your EclipSmart scope is a breeze; all the components fit comfortably inside the backpack. Upcoming Eclipses 2023 - On October 14, 2023, the famed “Ring of Fire” will encircle a darkened Moon during a spectacular annular eclipse. This phenomenon occurs when the Moon is too far from Earth to cover the Sun completely. The Sun's corona is not visible during an annular eclipse. 2024 - On April 8, 2024, the Moon will completely cover the Sun during an awe-inspiring Total Solar Eclipse. Observers within the path of totality will witness the sun’s dazzling corona, the “diamond ring” effect, and day turn to night.

10. Barska - GLADIATOR 30 x 50 Binoculars - Black

Barska - GLADIATOR 30 x 50 Binoculars - Black
70%

Our Score

Eco-Glass lenses; 10x magnification; multicoated lens; roof prisms; rubber armored barrels; dual-hinged, foldable design; compact size

Experience the outdoors with these Barska binoculars. A variety of magnifications paired with a strong zoom let you use them for many outdoor activities, while the ruby lens and fully coated optics minimize glare and capture clear images. Shock-absorbing rubber armor protects these Barska binoculars against damage from bumps and drops.


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