Best Birding Glasses Under $200

These Mid-Range Binoculars Are The Best
In Sharpness, Weight And Value At Under $200

By Richard Worden

If you're new to the birding world, the first thing you'll want to do is get a great pair of new binoculars. But when you are on a budget, it can be hard to tell what birding glasses are great value and which are cheap for a reason.

The best pair of birding glasses under $200 are the Celestron Nature DX 8x32 Binoculars. They are affordable and have much higher quality than other models at a similar price. It is also incredibly lightweight, so your birding trip won't strain your back.

If that isn't your cup of tea, then fear not. Here is my rundown of the best birding glasses under $200. The best part is they're all available to purchase on Amazon now, so you know you're getting a good deal.

Best Overall... 

Pros

• Much cheaper than other binoculars of similar quality. Good birding glasses can go for extremely high prices. The rivaling quality makes the Celestron one of the best birding glasses under $200.
• Lighter than other binoculars of similar quality. The size of these birding glasses strikes the perfect balance between picture quality and weight, so you're not lugging a weight around in your bag while you go birdwatching.

Cons

• The eyecaps have been reported to come loose occasionally. This could cause discomfort in some users.
• Slightly heavier than the standard compact model of binoculars. While the quality is impressive for its size, the Celestron is somewhat heavier than other compact models and may take up space in your bag.
  
  

Best Value for Money

Pros

• Comfortable straps and eyepieces. The eyecaps are adjustable to the distance you are comfortable with, and the straps attach to the side of the birding glasses, so they rest comfortably against your chest.
• Phone adapter and tripod. The Adasion comes with all the equipment necessary to take high-quality photos from afar using only your phone. Just set up the tripod, attach your phone, and snap away.

Cons

• It isn't the most powerful pair. While these are great value, they aren't the best birding glasses for under $200, so if you prioritize quality, you may want to look to the top of your budget.
• The smartphone adapter can be fiddly. The adapter works great when you have it set up, but it can be a challenge to do so, and it isn't compatible with all smartphones.
  
  

Best for Birdwatchers

Pros

• Waterproof body. The waterproofing on these binoculars means you can take them out in all weather without worrying about your birding experience being ruined.
• Excellent quality lens coating. The colors remain true to life exceptionally well for a product this size and price. It's great for identifying birds quickly.

Cons

• They don't work as well in low light. These work well if you are out birding during the day but have their challenges when it gets dark.
• The adapter isn't worth your time. It boasts a smartphone adapter for photography, but it isn't easy to use, and you need a tripod to make it work.
  
  

Best Quality

Pros

• It is covered in an anti-reflective coating. You won't have any issues with glare when it comes to these birding glasses.
• Easy to keep focus. Watching nature requires higher-quality binoculars because you need to move your view around quickly without losing focus. These do this wonderfully, and it is easy to keep track of small birds from a distance.

Cons

• They are the most expensive. While any birding glasses under $200 are a great bargain, these come closest to that mark, so you have to be willing to invest in them.
• The fog proofing isn't sound. The product boasts a nitrogen o-ring that waterproofs and fog-proofs the lenses. However, if the fog prevention works, it takes a while to adjust, and there are multiple reports of them being useless in foggy areas.
  
  

Easiest To Use

Pros

• Incredible picture quality. Some binoculars can magnify the image well enough, but immersing yourself through a lens is hard. These provide a seamless quality so you can enjoy your birdwatching without distractions.
• They are well waterproofed. Most binoculars offer waterproof covering, but many buckle under the pressure of heavy rainfall. These will be by your side no matter how miserable the weather is.

Cons

• The focus wheel can be tough to adjust. This can be difficult when birding because you want your lens to focus as quickly as possible. However, the problem can easily be fixed with a bit of oil and lots of use.
  
  

Best for Low Light

Pros

• Focuses quickly and easily. This can be a real help when identifying birds in low lighting.
• Great in low lighting. These will help you easily identify an early morning bird or a constellation in the sky.

Cons

• They are very heavy. While they can be held alone for a short while, a tripod setup is recommended if you plan on spending a prolonged period in one spot.
  
  

Best Birding Glasses Under $200...Conclusion

Even though birding glasses can go way over the $200 mark, that doesn’t mean you can’t get a great birding experience from some of the more affordable models. Some of these models hit a level of quality that’s way beyond their price range.

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Hi! I'm Richard Worden, the author and founder of We Know Birds.

Over 20 years ago I developed a keen interest in birds and birdwatching, and it has been my passion ever since. I am committed to spreading useful knowledge about birds to others so we might all enjoy them to the fullest.

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