What To Look For
The best type of binoculars will vary depending on a person's vision and needs. Some general features to consider include size, depth of field, ability to focus, whether they are compatible with eyeglasses and cost. While affordability is the objective, you might be willing to spend an extra $50 if that set of binoculars fits all your needs.
Common Pitfalls
Many pairs of binoculars falling into the affordable range--$100 to $300--don't have the ability to magnify as well as some more expensive models. Consider size; some of the best binoculars at any price point are bulky, and some that are smaller simply don't perform as well.
Where To Buy
ConsumerSearch.com recommends the Nikon Travelite VI 10x25 for its affordibility. This set is not waterproof but ranks high on the affordable scale and is rated overall as a good pair for occasional use.
Another more affordable set of binoculars is the Pentax DCF NV 8x36. Recommended highly for birdwatching because of its 8x magnification, this pair is waterproof and durable.
The Bushnell 10x43 NatureView Binoculars provides 10x magnification and a field of view of 315 feet at 1,000 yards. This set is also waterproof and is noted to be excellent for safaris or other wildlife viewing.
Find all three at Amazon marketplace, which affords reasonable pricing. B&H Photo offers reasonable pricing and carries a full array of accessories.
Cost
The Nikon Travelite VI 10x25, Pentax DCF NV 8x36 and Bushnell 10x43 NatureView will cost you between $100 and $250 new.
If you are buying your first pair or are looking to save even more money, both Amazon marketplace and B&H Photo offer a selection of used or refurbished items. This can reduce out-of-pocket cost by up to 50 percent, depending on what you buy.
Comparison Shopping
Magnification is the main feature that separates binoculars. The higher the magnification, the better that set is for nature viewing, specifically birdwatching. Magnification of 8x or higher is the standard recommendation for birdwatching. The Pentax and Bushnell meet this requirement, which will allow you to get a better view of what you are trying to see without disturbing the area around you.
Accessories
A strap allows you to keep the binoculars around your neck while taking notes or navigating rough terrain and will cost between $10 and $30.
A case will protect the lenses from scratches and can cost as little as $7 or as much as $500. In general, don't spend more than 50 percent of the cost of the actual product on the case, so if you spend $200 on the binoculars, spend no more than $100 on a case.
Other accessories include filters, tripods and rainguards. These are for more seasoned users and are not required for good use of the binoculars.
Insider Tips
When buying a pair of binoculars, consider for what you are using them. Like cameras, binoculars only perform as well as the person using them. An expensive set is not going to make you any better a birdwatcher, so before investing the money, buy a starter pair that you don't mind getting a little scuffed up.
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