What To Look For
Mid-size binoculars are small enough for hand-held use while offering high-quality imaging. According to REI's binocular guide, mid-size binoculars "are suitable for virtually any activity." Look at each binocular's set of numbers, such as 8x50. The first identifies magnification power, or zoom, while the second identifies the size of the front lenses, or aperture. Writing about binoculars for the National Wildlife Federation, former U.S. Navy optical expert William Cook says that many wildlife viewers prefer 7x or 8x magnification for comfortable hand-held use, especially if you plan to take them on long hikes. Go for apertures between 30 and 40 mm for bright imaging in dim lighting as well as comfort.
Common Pitfalls
Keep in mind that the higher the magnification and aperture numbers, the heavier the binoculars become. While 18x70 binoculars may look fantastic on a binocular website, in person they are unwieldy. Don't exceed 10x magnification or 50 mm apertures unless you plan to use a tripod. Also, high magnification powers usually limit the field of view, making it hard to scan large areas with binoculars. REI recommends mid-size binoculars such as 7x35 or 10x32 for comfort and performance.
Where To Buy
Websites such as EagleOptics.com sell a wide selection of binoculars with categories such as "birding binoculars" for easy shopping. Just remember that buying online means sacrificing the option of testing out binoculars firsthand---and comfort is an important factor. To buy in store, visit Nikon, Canon or Olympus stores. They guarantee quality products, and Olympus has affordable prices. Chain stores such as Best Buy and REI also sell binoculars, but selection may be limited. Consider visiting a store first to get a feel for binoculars, then browsing for similar models online.
Cost
Mid-size binoculars usually run between $100 and $300, depending on the brand. Binoculars from companies like Zeiss cost over $500, and high-end models go for over $1,000. If you're on a budget, fear not---stores have plenty of options under $100, though these may not provide the best quality, according to Cook. To guarantee you're buying a worthwhile product that won't wear out in a few months, figure on paying at least $100.
Comparison Shopping
The two types of binoculars are asymmetrical Porro prisms and roof prisms with a straight design. Porro prisms are more traditional, with optimal depth perception, according to Cook. Roof prisms are modern and lightweight, but they tend to cost more than Porro prisms.
Accessories
Don't forget to waterproof binoculars if you plan to use them outdoors. According to Cook, even rapid temperature changes are enough to cause moisture damage. Waterproof binocular options are readily available at most stores, sometimes for a slightly higher price than others.
Insider Tips
If you wear glasses or if you plan to use binoculars outdoors while wearing sunglasses, look for binoculars with lots of eye relief. This refers to how far away from your face you can hold the binoculars and still see the full image through them. Cook recommends eye relief of at least 15 mm for people who wear glasses. Even if you don't wear glasses, you may enjoy extra eye relief so you don't have to press your face directly against the binoculars to use them.
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