8x40 vs 10x50

Darryl · #1 (**permalink**) 11-10-11, 06:35 AM

As you will already know I've just got into birding and now it's time to get some binoculars, my partner wants to get me some for Christmas but we set a limit of about £50 for presents.

I've had a search and found 2 pairs

Olympus 8 x 40 DPSI £39 (RRP: £89.99)

Olympus 10 x 50 DPS-1 £51.51 (RRP: £99.99)

I have read good reviews on both models, can anyone help me choose?

I know they are both low end but until I can afford something better they will do for me.

Dave H · #2 (**permalink**) 11-10-11, 01:12 PM

Hi Darryl,
You should try to determine your preference between 8x and 10x. There's a good spread of users of each.
I've found that 8x is good for walking in the woods and general scanning of the terrain. 8x is good (for me) as it's easier to hold steady without body movement (inc heartbeat, really!) causing difficulty in holding a good view. On the other hand, I've found that 10x is good for hide work where I can be sitting and have somewhere to steady my arms/elbows.
Because of this, I now have two pairs of bins in use, the one I use depends on the birding I am to do. If I were to limit myself to one pair, it would have to be the 8x.

The objective diameter is a different quantity, the larger the objective lens, the more it will cope in darker conditions, subject to the limitations of your eyes. From the standpoint of having to carry bins for a good few hours a day, in my case, the x50 pair are an unnecessary weight.
Good luck in your choice, Dave

Darryl · #3 (**permalink**) 11-10-11, 04:34 PM

Thanks Dave for your explanation of each magnification and objective diameter. As they will be used in my back bedroom where I can fashion a rest and weight is not a problem, also the times I will be using them (early morning and evening) it looks like the 10x50 is the one for my immediate need, also if I do decide to do any watching in the field I would need to get some waterproof ones which by popular opinion will be 8x30/40.

Thanks again Dave for your swift response (pardon the pun)

astafjevs · #4 (**permalink**) 11-10-11, 04:41 PM

I'm not sure waterproof is that important if you're on a budget unless you specifically intend to be out birding in the rain! Otherwise, you could just cover a non-waterpoof pair up and run for shelter.

But I agree with your assessment that the 10's might be better for what you want them for.

Personally, I say get out in the field

Darryl · #5 (**permalink**) 11-10-11, 08:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by astafjevs

I'm not sure waterproof is that important if you're on a budget unless you specifically intend to be out birding in the rain! Otherwise, you could just cover a non-waterpoof pair up and run for shelter.

But I agree with your assessment that the 10's might be better for what you want them for.

Personally, I say get out in the field

Being Yorkshire (look it up, it's to the north of the midlands) born and bred I'm not afraid of getting wet and I'd need equipment that is up to the job but unfortunately up here they only pay us in sheep and eggs so purchasing such equipment can be difficult but not impossible. At this time watching from my home is the best I can do and until I've seen all the birds in the woods at the back of my house I have no need to venture further.

Just kiddin about the up norf bit

dales birder · #6 (**permalink**) 12-01-12, 08:58 PM

Darryl,living even further up North than you we have a reasonable barter system working.You can get a decent pair of bins for 3 ewes,1 tup and 4 dozen fresh free range eggs.